2013-09 Melbourne

Come September (7th)

devastation were once being bandied about, now it seems to be a much closer contest.

Come September is a 1961 romantic comedy film starring Rock Hudson and Gina Lollobrigida.

The local version at the moment is a comic, ho-hum election movie starring Kevin “selfie” Rudd and Tony “action man” Abbott. There seem to be no romantic leads and yes, there is no love in the air between the two major stars. In fact, spite and vitriol often surface between the two. While the critics have awarded the gong of “Best (better?) Actor” to the Coalition leader Tony Abbott, the People’s Choice Award category is still seeing Labor’s Kevin Rudd as the forerunner.

With the election campaign officially on the other side of the halfway mark, the Liberal-National alliance seems to be ahead in the polls. The experts at this stage are calling it an election for Tony Abbott to lose. That this is the analysis shows how well Kevin Rudd has changed the equation after replacing Julia Gillard. While terms such as annihilation and

An interesting side-show in this election campaign is the open hostility between the News Ltd media and the Labor Party. While the Labor Party tried to muzzle the press under former communications minister Stephen Conroy and failed, it seems that News Ltd is enjoying their potshots at the ALP through their tabloid Daily Telegraph. “Throw this mob out” screamed the headlines as the elections were announced. PM Rudd has been openly critical in his opinion of News Ltd; it will be interesting to see the kind of revenge he will seek should he be returned to power. As Julia Gillard found out, Kevin Rudd neither forgets nor forgives!

At the same time, if ALP loses the elections, it will be interesting to see what happens to one K. Rudd. If the Coalition were to lose, it is clear that Tony Abbott will be the fall guy and there will be a shoot-out between Malcolm Turnbull and Joe Hockey for leader. Under the Labor Party, the lines are not so clear. If Kevin Rudd is forced out, who will replace him? The strong union leader turned politician Bill Shorten at the helm will further bind the party to the union movement, the very image they are trying to change. There are few

charismatic leaders in the Labor camp with a number of them electing to bow out, and so it will be an interesting conundrum for the ALP. But cometh the hour, cometh the man (or woman) and perhaps a new face leading the party post elections is just the tonic required to rebuild.

Having said that, whichever mob comes in next will have to sort out the financial mess that the Wayne Swan-Chris Bowen team leaves behind. It is a bit rich for the ALP to pressure the Coalition to reveal their costings, when even with the full might of the Treasury, they did not get a single number right in their budgets. With the mining tax turning out to be one of the worst government deals ever negotiated with the private sector, and total disconnect between overall earnings and expenditure, the Labor Party has racked up huge amounts of debt in their six years in government. Someone needs to pay it back. One expects this will be our future generations. We may have escaped the global financial crisis, but unless the right measures are put in place, one only has to see the state of some European economies to understand the crises which can unfold.

Pawan Luthra is the current Parliament of NSW Multicultural Journalist of the Year.

PAWAN LUTHRA

Silver Jubilee celebrations of Hindi Education in Australia

Sat 7 September 5.30-8.30pm

Hindi Shiksha Sangh (Australia), will celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Hindi education in Australia. A cultural program will be presented by VSL students and community members.

Glen Waverly Community Centre, 700 Waverly Road (Cnr of Springvale and Waverly Roads). Tickets: $5 per family. Ample parking and food is available on sale at venue. Details: Ritu Shorey on 03 85114241, or Shally Khanna on 03 9511 0644.

Ustad Barkat Sidhu performance

Sat and Sun 7 and 8 September (both) 6.30-9pm

Ustad Barkat Sidhu is a world renowned exponent of Sufi music, performing for the first time in Australia. Widely known for his energetic and soulful Sufi singing, he is a skilled classical music vocalist, adept at every nuance of the art. Tickets: $90, $50, $30, $25.

Sat: Renaissance Theatre, 826A High Street, Kew East, and Sun: at Mossfiel Primary School, Langridge St, Hoppers Crossing. Details: Rakhi 0404 132 385.

Womb exhibition

Tues 10 September 6-8pm

Celebrating the launch of Womb, an exhibition by Karen Milder and Natasha Narain. Exhibition dates: 10-15 September, artist talks: 14-15 September from 10am-2pm. Gasworks Art Park, 21 Graham St, Albert Park.

What’s on

Swar Sandhya

Sat 14 September 7.30pm

(for a sharp 8pm start)

Karaoke night, sing whatever you wish, bring your own karaoke tracks or choose one of ours. Free event for anyone who loves Hindi music.

Waverley Meadows Primary School

Concert Hall, Columbia Drive, Wheelers Hill. Details: Neeraj 0439 980 551 or Nikhil 0430 922 851.

Saaz aur Awaz

Sat 14 September 8-11pm

A free evening of light Hindi music, all are welcome to sing or just listen and enjoy. Mount Street Neighbourhood house, 6 Mount Street, Glen Waverley (entry from Panoramic Grove car park).

Details: Satish 0400 368 303.

Parenting in a Multicultural Society

Sun 15 September 2-5pm

Parenting in a Multicultural Society is a PS3 major family event, families are encouraged to bring their partners and children. A panel of experts and parents will discuss the challenges and joys of parenting in a multicultural society. Hear from knowledgeable people and also to share your experiences. Ashburton Community Services, 296, High Street, Ashburton.

Sahitya Sandhya

Sat 21 September from 7.30pm

A free evening of Hindi poetry and prose. Come and share your own creation, or your favourite poetry or

prose. New writers are most welcome! Kew Library, Corner of Cotham Road and Civic Drive, Kew (Melway ref 45 D6).

Details: Harihar 03 9555 4924 or Nalin 0402 108 512.

Gondwanalandings: Voices of the Emerging Indian Diaspora in Australia

Fri and Sat 27 and 28 September This flagship A.I.I event will map the history of Indian-Australians, and discuss social, cultural and political issues faced by them. By sharing research and stories, this conference aims to place Australia’s Indian diaspora at the heart of these important debates. It also hopes to showcase Indian-Australian artistic talent. Fri: Melbourne Law School, The University of Melbourne, and Sat: State Library of Victoria. Details: http://www. aii.unimelb.edu.au/events

Darebin Music Feast 2013, featuring Tihai3

Sat 28 September 8pm onwards Bollywood and Beyond celebration of 100 Years of Indian Cinema, featuring Tihai3 and musicians from Preston Symphony Orchestra. Tihai3 will present a Bollywood retrospective.

Supported by the City of Darebin and The Boite. Northcote Town Hall, 1 89 High St. Northcote.  Details: therese@boite.com.au, 03 9417 3550, or 0427 773 553,  and bookings: www.northcotetownhall.com.au

Book launch

Thurs 2 October 6.30-9.00pm

Launch of The Girls Ate Last by Supriya Singh. Cost: single $50, couple: $80 (includes a welcome drink, an Indian feast, a signed copy of the book or a $20gift voucher per package). Machan Indian Restaurant, 953 Main Road, Eltham. Prepaid early bookings are essential: 03 9439 8700 or elthambookshop@bigpond.com

Victorian Festival of Lights

Sat 26 October 12noon-9pm

Followed by fireworks along the Yarra River, Federation Square, Melbourne CBD. Mela to celebrate Diwali.

AIII Diwali Fair

Sun 27 October 11am-9pm

Various activities, food and fun for the family. Sandown Park Racecourse, 591 Princess Highway, Springvale.

Wyndham Festival of Lights

Sat 2 November 12noon-8pm

Diwali celebrations with lots of activities. At Werribee Park grounds, next to Victorian Rose Garden, Werribee Mansion and Zoo.

Details: team@wyndhamdiwali.org.au or www.wyndhamdiwali.org.au

Darshan

Every Sat and Sun 5:30-8pm Nathdwara Cultural and Educational Centre in Hallam is open for Darshan. 2-5 Princes Domain Drive, Hallam. Details: www.nathdwara.org.au  or info@nathdwara.org.au

Indian-Australians call it for Liberals

PAWAN LUTHRA analyses results of Indian Link’s online election survey

The Indian Australian community has come out strongly in favour of the Liberal-National coalition in an online survey conducted by Indian Link. Data was gathered over four days between 16 and 20 August 2013, from just over 500 people across the country. Midway through the 2013 election campaign just over 50% of those surveyed indicated their support for the Coalition for the September 7 election.

The ALP secured 43.28% of the votes, compared to 50.75% for the Coalition, with the Greens picking up the balance.

An interesting observation however came from the question on preferred prime minister. Surprisingly, Indian Australians believe that Kevin Rudd will make a better prime minister, giving him a comprehensive preference of 52.6% of the votes over Tony Abbott at 47.4%.

Indian Australian voters seem to view the leadership style of Rudd - or at least the public leadership style - as much more likable.

It seems that the change from Julia Gillard did not make much difference to the voting intentions of the community. Over 70% of the respondents confirmed that it did not make a difference to them who the leader of the ALP

is during this period. It appears that all the troubles with Labor, particularly with policy and not just with the personality issues at the leadership level, have turned Indian Australian voters off.

What was surprising was the strong gains that the Coalition has made into the perception of who will do more for the Indian Australian community. Traditionally, Labor has been strong in staking its credentials over the migrant vote. However, in the Indian Link survey, both Labor and Coalition seem to be neck and neck in securing just over 47% votes, with the Greens picking up the balance 5%. Palmer United Party did get a mention as working better for Australia’s Indian community.

As the community matures from the working class migrant group to those establishing, growing or being involved in small businesses, there seems to be the emergence of a shift away from Labor towards the Coalition.

While we have certainly grown in numbers in recent years, it is also clear that entrepreneurial activity has increased within our numbers with the new arrivals, who are small to medium business owners rather than those in the professions. The doctors and academics made up the early

Indian settlers of the 1970s and ‘80s, whereas among the newer settlers a larger number are entrepreneurs. And to them, Liberal is a better fit than Labor. Influencing this decision is perhaps also the perception that the Coalition will forge better relations between India and Australia. With the Labor Party stalling on the progress of uranium sales to India, their heavy-handed approach to the international students’ issue of 2009-’10, and their clampdown on 457 visas, the Indian community seems to be leaning slightly toward the Coalition with a 51.5% vote as compared to 48.5% for Labor. This is also reflected in the respondents’ answers to which party will offer better immigration policies.

State-based affairs - whether Campbell Newman’s cost-cutting measures in Queensland or the Eddie Obeid-Ian MacDonald ICAC saga in NSW - seem to have played a marginal role in the decision of the final vote. Only 25% have indicated that state politics influenced their decision. Interestingly enough, the debate on asylum seekers ranked the highest among various issues of

with education close behind. The Australian economy was third as a factor, while cost of living ranked fourth in order of importance. In the marginal seats in Western Sydney, a region which a significant number of Indian Australians call home, the refugee issue is a hot topic, and it seems that the party which settles the asylum seeker debate most effectively will strongly gain from the Indian Australian vote.

At the last Federal elections in 2010, Indian Link polling had the election too close to call. Days later, the election results vindicated this finding.

This time round, the Indian Australian community has called it for the Liberal-National Coalition, opting to vote out the Kevin Rudd-led Labor Party.

It will be clear in just under two weeks if the Indian community in Australia gets it right two elections in a row.

Whatever the results, we urge the entire Indian Australian community who can, to go out there and make your vote count!

With the Labor Party stalling on the progress of uranium sales to India, their heavyhanded approach to the international students’ issue of 2009-’10, and their clampdown on 457 visas, the Indian community seems to be leaning slightly toward the Coalition with a 51.5% vote as compared to 48.5% for Labor

Record number

For the first time in Australia’s election history, we are witnessing the largest number of South Asian candidates actively participating in the 2013 elections. A total of 26 candidates of Indian and subcontinent origin will represent political parties, or stand as Independents, for seats in both the Senate, as well as the House of Representatives. While this may seem like an unimpressively low number across a wide range of political platforms, it does indicate that the Indian diaspora is taking a greater interest in Australian politics and that they are lending their voice and efforts towards better understanding and acceptance of their communities within Australian society.

Conducting research for this report on the Australian elections has been an interesting and enlightening experience. For instance, how many of us were aware that some of the registered parties on the Australian Electoral website are the Fishing and Lifestyle Party, Australian Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon Tax Climate Sceptics and Shooters and Fishers Party? Would we vote for the Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubblers Party, Help End Marijuana Prohibition (HEMP) Party, Smokers Rights Party or the Pirate Party Australia? We certainly aren’t spoiled for choice, are we?

We are all aware that the 2013 Elections is bound to be dominated by the Australian Labor Party (ALP) and the Liberals (Coalition), with Kevin Rudd and Tony Abbott respectively, jostling for the throne of Australia. The Greens, a growing and seemingly dedicated group have finally found themselves in the reckoning, as more and more Australians seem to support their policies for climate change and a cleaner, greener world. And of course, a plethora of parties such as the Palmer United Party and the WikiLeaks Party, not to mention Independents, are trying to have their say in the future of Australia.

Current trends indicate that multicultural communities in general are confused about the

current political scenario. The ALP, with their leadership issues and their suspect policies in relation to asylum seekers and the economy, have lost them the vote of confidence with the public. The Liberals are faring no better. They come across as indecisive and conservative, to say the least. Their policies are unclear and they seem adept at circumventing topics of controversy like the budget deficit and gender parity issues. And while both parties have reasonably strong candidates in the background like Joe Hockey and Penny Wong, neither leader inspires confidence in voters.

For the Indian community, it’s a matter of waiting and watching. There are many issues in the balance, such as progressing Indo-Oz relations, visa issues, trade and bilateral relations – the list is endless! But the increased representation of south Asian candidates in the 2013 Election is an indicator that times are changing, and that the voice of multicultural communities are being heard. It is a significant development and one that we must embrace with enthusiasm, as a sign of better things to come.

Both the major political parties have made an attempt to inculcate Indian-origin people into their campaign strategy.

The Australian Labor Party has the support of two candidates, Manoj Kumar, candidate for Menzies in Melbourne, Victoria, (House of Representatives), and Bhupinder Kumar, candidate for Chibber, New South Wales, (Senate). However, it does seem like Labor doesn’t seem to have made a strong enough pitch to recruit more candidates from one of the fastest growing migrant communities in Australia.

The Liberals have done better, recruiting four candidates to the party, three of these from Victoria. Dr Ali Khan, Jag Chugha and Shilpa Hegde will all contest from areas in Victoria. Following close behind are the Greens, with four South Asian candidates representing the party. Prominent among these is Alexandra Kaur Bhathal, who will contest from Batman in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

But it is the newer and lesser known parties who have a strong Indian presence among their

There are more South Asian candidates standing for the upcoming Federal elections than ever, find SHERYL DIXIT and RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA, and surprisingly most are not from the two major parties

Clive Palmer (PUP) with Gary Loke

Jag Chugha (Liberal)

Shilpa Hegde (Liberal)

of candidates in the fray

candidates. The Palmer United Party has a total of nine Indianorigin candidates. Headed by Professor Clive Palmer as their Federal leader, the party was formed on the ashes of the United Australia Party (UAP), an Australian political party founded in 1931 and dissolved in 1945.

Now in 2013, the UAP has been re-launched by Professor Palmer, with the slogan of ‘Reunite the Nation’. It’s probable that as a newly formed party, they needed the numbers from a cross-section of candidates, but whatever the case, it is a fact that the Palmer United Party supports the largest number of Indian-origin candidates in these elections.

South Asian origin candidates in the 2013 Federal Elections

SENATE

NSW

Bhupinder Kumar Chibber (Labor)

Sam Swami Nathan (Independent)

VIC

Gurminder Sekhon (Greens)

Binoy Kampmark (Wikileaks Party)

WA

Suresh Rajan (Wikileaks Party)

ACT

Indra Esguerra (Greens)

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

NSW

Ammar Khan, Chifley (Independent)

Mohandas Balasingham, Grayndler (Palmer United Party)

Raheam Khan, North Sydney (Palmer United Party)

Ganesh Loke, Parramatta (Palmer United Party)

Kalpesh Patel, Parramatta (Independent)

Mohhamad Ashraf, Reid (Palmer United Party)

VIC

Alex Kaur Bhathal, Batman (Greens)

Ali Khan, Calwell (Liberal)

Dinesh Jayasuriya, Gorton (Greens)

Jatinder Singh, Holt (Palmer United Party)

Avtar Singh Gill, Isaacs (Palmer United Party)

Nihal Samara, Lalor (Liberal)

Manpj Kumar, Menzies (Labor)

Jag Chugha, Scullin (Liberal)

Shilpa Hegde, Wills (Liberal)

WA

Vimal Sharma, Cowan (Palmer United Party)

Vashil Sharma, Fremantle (Palmer United Party)

Kim Mubarak, Sterling (Independent)

SA

Balwinder Singh Jhandi, Barker (Palmer United Party)

Bikhar Singh Brar, Mayo

The WikiLeaks Party was incorporated as a political party in 2013. According to its website, the party ‘stands for unswerving commitment to the core principles of civic courage nourished by understanding and truthfulness and the free flow of information’. The Constitution of the WikiLeaks Party lists its objectives which include the protection of human rights and freedoms; transparency of governmental and corporate action, policy and information; recognition of the need for equality between generations; and support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination. Naturally, Julian Assange is its leader and is supported by two Indian origin candidates, Binoy Kampmark, a respected academic and Suresh Rajan, a renowned economist.

Most of the South Asian candidates standing for election are from across Australia but unsurprisingly, none belong to the Northern Territory, Canberra and Tasmania. What is surprising though, is that none are from Queensland, with its relatively strong Indian migrant base. The candidates still do not seem to have a strong presence, but the fact that they have one at all is promising from a long term perspective.

So what kind of policies do these candidates support and what are they striving to achieve?

Jag Chugha is the first Punjabi Sikh to stand for a Federal Seat of Parliament in Australia. About his candidacy Jag says, “Scullin is a great place to live, but things should be better. Under Labor the cost of living has sky-rocketed, small businesses are doing it

Alex Bhathal (Greens)

tough and people are worried about their job security. These are issues that people are talking to me about daily. I want to give my community a strong local voice and fight for our fair share”. As a long-time resident of Scullin, Jag feels he understands the local community’s needs and can represent local families to deliver real results.

For Alexander (Alex) Kaur Bhathal, Greens candidate for Batman in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs, it is her fourth candidacy for this federal seat. “I am standing for a vision of a future in Batman where we can all thrive, she says in a statement on the Greens website. “I will work for a flourishing small business sector, combined with a renewed manufacturing base which could provide hundreds of local jobs in the renewable energy industries… building a strong focus on renewable technology research and design manufacturing in our suburbs which have great manufacturing infrastructure and plenty of people looking for local work. We are the most progressive electorate in Australia, with a combined Greens and Labor vote of 78.5%”.

50-year-old Sam Swaminathan is a relatively new migrant who came here in 2003, and is standing as an Independent. “I stand for economic growth, employment, the abolition of carbon tax, services for senior citizens and tax concessions for working parents,” says Sam enthusiastically.

“We’re standing for three key things at this election,” says Dr Binoy Kampmark of the WikiLeaks Party. “These are issues of transparency, accountability and justice. I call this the ‘holy trinity’ of our platform. In terms of accountability, Wikileaks is well known for its slogan of ‘We open governments, everywhere’. As a party we want no hidden deals, no backdoor deals. We want transparency in funding, in accounts. By accountability, we refer to surveillance. We believe the state has become too powerful in relation to citizens. Is it necessary to spy on us to keep us safe? We want to generate an

interest amongst the public, as to what Intelligence does with our data. In terms of justice, we seek protection for whistle blowers, and want to stop abuses of state power”.

For Ganesh Loke, candidate for the Palmer United Party, a solution to the Carbon Tax and the problem with asylum seekers is paramount. “We want to have the Carbon Tax abolished; to have a humanitarian refugee policy whereby Australia is protected while at the same time refugees have opportunities to enhance their lives, and to do away with paid political lobbyists,” says Ganesh. “Both major parties are against refugees. That’s against international law, which states that genuine refugees must be resettled. Mr Palmer’s policy of onshore processing is the most humane policy in the debate,” he adds.

Shilpa Hegde is a candidate for the Liberal Party from Wills in Melbourne, and she says that Liberal has a plan to put Australia back on track. This plan includes generation of one million new jobs within five years by delivering lower taxes, more efficient government and more productive businesses. “I’ve noticed many families have become burdened by the rising cost of living and the lack of essential services in their community,” she adds.

“As a part of the Liberal team, I have the real solutions to lower the cost of living and fight for improved services, like schools and hospitals, for our community. I want to represent my community in Parliament and make sure the residents of Wills get their fair share,” she adds.

What was the ‘X’ factor that convinced these candidates to join the party of their choice?

“The protection of human rights is paramount to me. WikiLeaks Party delivers this,” succinctly states Suresh Rajan from the WikiLeaks Party.

“I’ve been involved in the Liberal Party for a number of years now, and this combined with my interest in helping out my local community, influenced my decision to run for Parliament,” says Shilpa.

“I was first introduced to the Liberal Party several years ago by my father and at that time realised that I too shared the beliefs of the party,” says Jag. “Everyone should be free to pursue their goals and develop their talents”.

“I’ve never been in politics,” admits Binoy. “I’ve written extensively about politics though. And this is the first political party I’ve come across that extends my (passion) for being critical of power. “It’s a party of review, if you like, a watchdog part, so important in today’s world. That’s the first reason. The second reason is the party’s diversity is remarkable. Membership extends across the left-right divide. It’s a broad eclectic group of people with similar interests”.

A former Labor Party member, Ganesh claims he was completely disillusioned by the Party in recent times and so decided to seek a new platform.

“We are the most progressive electorate in Australia, with a combined Greens and Labor vote of 78.5%,” states Alex. “People in this seat value social justice, human rights and the environment. I would be proud to represent the people of this seat”.

The campaign trail is a rough and challenging one, which certainly needs the benefit of strategy to reach out to as many voters as possible. How did the candidates deal with this aspect of the elections?

Jag is out campaigning every day, listening to locals. “I’m meeting people at shopping centres, schools, markets and train stations,” he states. “I’ve been out door knocking and leafleting, trying to let people know that the Liberals have a plan to reduce the cost of living for families, help small businesses get ahead and strengthen the economy. I’ve also been attending community functions where I’ve had the opportunity to meet many people of different cultures and backgrounds”.

Sam, a chartered accountant by background, has been reaching out to the Indian community through various associations, and has been meeting people at cultural functions, and places of worship. He has also been emailing Indian associations in Newcastle and Central Coast.

Binoy has been campaigning across various forums, particularly in social media, “I’ve also participated actively in forums such as at the Fitzroy Town Hall recently which was received well. We’ve had a variety of debates and meetings in our effort to gather a support base. There has been interest from the community because of the Indian background

(my mother is Bengali). And also Indian connections overseas have brought good and positive coverage for both Suresh Rajan, our candidate in WA, and me,” he claims.

Ganesh has been campaigning at community functions such as the IndAus Fair and the CIA Independence Day Dinner, as well as at shopping malls, local stations, and places of worship such as the Swaminarayan Temple. Ganesh also participated in the Daily Telegraph debate to put forth his views to a wider audience. “Being a techie, social media is one of my strengths,” he reveals. “My Facebook page has 3,200 likes, more than other candidates in my constituency”.

Shilpa and her team have been following a similar strategy of letterboxing, door knocking and meeting people in shopping centres, community hubs and train stations. “I’ve been listening to locals and many people have been telling me that the cost of living is having a real effect on their household,” she says. “I want people in Wills to know that the Coalition has real solutions to lower the cost of living, create job growth, strengthen our local economy and get the Budget back on track”.

All the candidates are involved in various charitable activities, including support for specific charities, volunteering their time and efforts for the betterment of the community.

Most of the Indian origin candidates contesting in the Federal elections have a strong background and would be more than proficient at their role, if elected.

Suresh Rajan from WikiLeaks Party has had a distinguished career in economics as well as having been a vigorous advocate for ethnic communities and people with disabilities. He served for several years as head of the Ethnic Communities Council of WA and is currently the President of the National Ethnic Disability Alliance, the peak body for the CaLD Disability organisations in Australia. Suresh holds a Bachelor of Commerce with a double major (Management and Accounting) and a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Western Australia, and is a regular commentator on television and radio in his role as a financial planner and economist.

Alexandra Kaur Bathal is a well-known and respected member of the community. She has 25 years of experience working in the social welfare sector, with families and local communities. Alex is a former

Welfare Spokesperson for the Australian Greens Victoria and is active in the refugee rights movement, anti-nuclear and environmental campaigning. As a qualified social worker, Alex’s professional experience includes clinical practice with young people, community development, research, management, program and policy development.

Jag holds qualifications of Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Laws. He is a practicing lawyer with over 15 years of experience and is currently the senior counsel at a top 100 ASX Australian listed company.

Sam Swaminathan, the NSW Senate Independent has extensive work experience within the mainstream, through his dealings with charity organisations in the north shore, churches, aged care and retirement facilities.

Binoy arrived in Australia in the 1990s but has been living in the US and in the UK where he worked towards a Cambridge PhD. Dr. Binoy Kampmark now teaches core legal courses within the Legal and Dispute Studies program for the Bachelor of Social Science at RMIT University.

Ganesh arrived in Australia in 1999 as a student, and took degrees in IT and education from Charles Sturt University. He is currently an IT entrepreneur in Sydney. Shilpa is an Electronics Engineer who currently works for DWS as an IT consultant.

So finally, why politics, and will this be a career for these candidates, regardless of whether they win or lose?

“Politics is a platform by means of which you can bring real change to society,” says Ganesh Loke. “If you want to change the system, come forward, get involved”.

“Politics is a way of serving the people. There’s been nobody from the India community so far who has risen in this field. I feel it is time to take some responsibility and start to give back,” says Sam.

“I’ll answer that question by quoting from French writer Andre Malroux: Politics is justice; if you can’t have them together, it’s an empty mission,” emphasises Bijoy.

With the election fast approaching, these 26 South Asian candidates are worth keeping an eye on. To date there have been a very small number of Indian-origin parliamentarian, including the serving Senator Lisa Singh from Tasmania, and the recontesting Alex Bhathal. It will be interesting if the community can add to this on the night of September 7th.

The battle

Indian-origin voters. Indian Link

relating to

Preeti Jabbal (PJ): What are the two current issues that you will commit to advocate if you were to win?

Emanuele Cicchiello (EC): As an active community member and parent, I know that the daily issues affecting people in Bruce stem from cost of living pressures. Local families and businesses are struggling to keep with up with their rising electricity, gas and other utility bills. As part of a united Coalition team, I will immediately scrap the carbon tax to help alleviate these cost of living pressures and work hard to restore confidence to the Australian economy to support businesses and improve job security.

Local residents are also concerned about public safety and I have been fighting on their behalf to secure funding for crime prevention initiatives, such as CCTV cameras and security lighting. I recently announced that a Coalition Government would provide $400,000 for CCTV cameras to be installed in crime hotspots across Dandenong, and I will continue to work closely with the community and local police to deliver further initiatives to make Bruce a safer place to live and work.

Alan Griffin (AG): There are many issues that relate to both Bruce and the broader Australian community. Two that I believe are of great importance both locally and nationally are Labor’s Better Schools Plan and the National Broadband Network. Our Better Schools Plan will ensure we lift our school standards and give our children the chance to realise their full potential, which will help Australia remain a strong and prosperous economy. The NBN is an investment in Australia’s future. It will help our economy to remain strong by maximizing

our potential in education, health care and business.

PJ: What are your thoughts on the East West Road link that is expected to boost the Greater Dandenong community?

EC: Building the missing link in Melbourne’s road network is a priority for Tony Abbott and his team. The Federal Coalition has pledged $1.5 billion to construction of the East-West Link to give commuters more time at home with their families

and to boost productivity across the state. Families and businesses here in Bruce are tired of losing precious hours stuck in traffic. This landmark road project will clear traffic bottlenecks and get Melbourne moving again, but it will only become a reality under a Coalition Government.

AG: I believe that the best way to keep Melbourne moving involves investment in both its road AND rail infrastructure. Federal Labor has allocated $3 billion to build the Melbourne Metro rail project,

which has been properly costed and recommended for funding by Infrastructure Australia. We will not be writing a blank cheque for the East West tunnel because we have yet to see a proper business case for it. There is a proper assessment process in place for such projects before any funding decisions are made. Greater Dandenong can’t afford a return to an unbalanced, ‘roads only’ approach that would result in more gridlock and congestion under Mr Abbott. He simply doesn’t believe in funding public transport infrastructure, and doesn’t understand Greater Dandenong’s importance as a public transport hub. The Rudd Labor Government understands that fixing traffic congestion is too big a task to simply say ‘it’s the State’s job’.

PJ: During your campaign have you come across any specific issues relating to the Indian community of Bruce and how do you intend to resolve them?

EC: I have enjoyed spending a great deal of my time over the past year with members of the Indian community in Bruce, attending functions as well as visiting the temple. People of Indian citizenship and nationality are our single largest intake of migrants to Australia and more importantly, they are the single biggest contributors to skilled migration. I recently attended the Sikh Temple in Blackburn with the Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Scott Morrison, where people raised the issue of Labor’s attack on 457 visas. The Indian community has been rightly outraged by Labor telling the Australian people that migrants are taking their jobs. I can assure the Indian community in Bruce that they will never hear this sort of rhetoric from a Coalition Government. We celebrate the contributions that the Indian community have made to Australia over generations and, if fortunate enough to be elected on September 7, I will continue to

support the Indian community in Bruce.

AG: Indian migrants have similar concerns to most Australians, particularly those who have come to Australia from overseas to build a life for them and their families. Access to high quality education at all levels, the opportunity to find employment and the capacity to access good quality health care are all important priorities. Also the ability to sponsor family members to both visit and migrate to Australia. Labor’s Better Schools Plan, record investment in skills and training and increased support for Medicare all point to our commitment across these areas. That India is now our fourth largest migrant community and nearly 160,000 visited Australia in 2012 illustrates the significant growth in our links with India.

PJ: The Indian community’s middle income earners have contributed significantly to the Australian economy, but they feel ignored when it comes to policymaking and benefits. How does your party respond to that?

EC: People in the Indian community are genuinely concerned about the state of the economy and the future direction of our country under a Labor Government. Many people own small businesses and I have heard countless stories of declining profits, staff having to be laid off, and skyrocketing electricity and gas bills. Unlike Labor, the Coalition has strong economic credentials and a proven track record of managing budgets and, as part of a united Coalition team, I will work hard to restore a strong and secure economy to Australia so that businesses prosper and people feel secure in their employment. The Coalition will scrap the carbon tax, slash the red tape that has tied up small business in knots, and improve local health services and restore the Private Health Insurance rebate as soon as we responsibly can. We value the contributions

PREETI JABBAL

The seat of Bruce in Melbourne’s south east is home to a large number of

speaks with Labor and Liberal candidates Alan Griffin and Emanuele Cicchiello respectively, on issues

the local area, the Indian community, and Australia’s relations with India

Emanuele Cicchiello, Liberal Party

for Bruce

that middle-income earners make to our country and will be working hard to restore hope, reward and opportunity to the Indian community.

AG: Members of the Indian community in Australia have been very active members of many professional, community and political organisations. Through these organisations they have played important roles in being part of the ongoing policy and political debate within Australia. They have also had access to the same benefits as other Australians, which is appropriate and fair.

PJ: How does your party plan to forge better relations with India?

EC: As the Hon Julie Bishop, Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, recently stated: “Australia and India are good friends and within Australia there is no greater friend of India than the Liberal Party of Australia”.

The Liberal Party appreciates the importance of our relationship with India and we share the values of freedom and choice, enterprise and hard work. Ms Bishop has made clear that broadening and deepening our relationship with India will be a priority for the Coalition in government. The Coalition will also seek to build Australia’s trade and investment relationship with India and continue to be an important partner with India in terms of its energy needs. We will recalibrate our foreign affairs strategy to ensure trade is an important part of dialogue between our two countries.

AG: In a visit to Delhi in November 2009, Prime Minister Rudd and Prime Minister Singh announced the establishment of a Strategic Partnership between Australia and India. Under the agreement, both countries have pursued deeper bilateral, regional and international cooperation across a wide range of fields, including on strategic and security matters. We have been making solid progress. This includes the launching of negotiations on a civil nuclear cooperation agreement, the opening of a consulate in Chennai, further progress in negotiating a free trade agreement and making

Hindi a priority Asian language in our schools. There was also a major promotion of Australia in India known as Oz Fest with 100 events across 18 cities. When the Labor Government launched the Australia in the Asian Century White Paper we said India was one of our priority relationships – together with China, Indonesia, South Korea and Japan. Soon the Government will launch the India Country Strategy – a blue print for how we plan to build further our relationship by 2025 across community, business and government. India is Australia’s fifth largest export market. Total trade in 2012 was valued at $17.5 billion. India is our second largest

source of international students. On the tourism front, India is one of the world’s fastest growing outbound travel markets, with the World Tourism Organisation predicting 50 million outbound travellers by 2020. In the year ending December 2012, Australia received almost 160, 000 Indian visitors, spending in the order of $800 million. Of all of Australia’s significant relationships in Asia, our relationship with India has perhaps the greatest potential to expand. Australia can supply the resources that India needs to develop and we can provide education, finance and IT services, and tourism opportunities to India’s growing middle class.

PJ: What will be your plarty’s first step to offer better immigration policies to migrants?

The Indian community has been well served by the Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Scott Morrison who has developed a strong working relationship with the community, and he will continue to work closely with them as the Minister if the Coalition is fortunate enough to form government. The Coalition Government will reintroduce a suite or proven measures to stem the flow of illegal boat arrivals. We strongly believe that having a properly targeted and well-managed migration program is critical to our nation’s future.

Historically, skilled migration has been one of the most important contributors to our national success, delivering social and economic strength, prosperity and unity, and a strong and cohesive society. The Coalition has always value the involvement of migrants in our economy and society and we will hard to restore integrity to our immigration programme.

Labor believes our current migration system provides a good balance between skilled migration, family reunion, refugee and other categories. The substantial growth in migration from India in recent years would point to the fact that it has certainly allowed significant opportunity for Indians to come to Australia.

PJ: From 1996 till date Alan Griffin has been the member for Bruce. Emanuele, what will it take to win the seat this year? Alan, what will it take to retain the seat?

EC: While there is no doubt I have a battle on my hands to win the seat, I am working hard to let people know that there is a clear choice in Bruce at this election and they don’t have to put up with another three years of neglect under Alan Griffin and Labor.

I am being supported by senior members of the Coalition team, as well as specific visits from frontbenchers Malcolm Turnbull and Christopher Pyne who recognise local residents deserve better. This election provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity

for the people living in Bruce to throw out a bad government and elect a member of the Coalition who will work tirelessly as part of a stable government to deliver a stronger economy with more jobs, real help for families and small business, lower taxes and secure borders.

AG: I will continue to work hard as the local member and ensure electors understand the choice that they face on September 7. Despite the constant negativity that we’ve seen from Mr Abbott, I believe that residents have a very clear choice at this election. A Rudd Labor Government is offering genuine investment in vital future infrastructure such as our schools and the NBN, and a proven steady hand on our economy which by any measure is envied around the world. Mr Abbott will scrap the NBN, and then proceed to cut superannuation savings, the Schoolkids Bonus, and the Better Schools Plan just to name a few. He’s got billions of dollars’ worth of holes in his costings which need filling, and nothing will be off the table. He simply can’t be trusted.

PJ: We are now nearly at the last few days of the campaign. Where do you see it going?

EC: I am out every day talking to people in Bruce who are struggling with cost of living pressures and worried about job security. They feel that Labor has let down their families and they are looking to vote for real change on September 7 so that we can have strong and stable government once again. I have met many locals who tell me they will vote Liberal for the first time in their lives. They are sick of the chaos and dysfunction. If fortunate enough to be elected to represent the people of Bruce, I will work hard to restore hope, reward and opportunity for our community.

AG: I’ve been through enough election campaigns to know that it’s not a good idea to spend too much time speculating about the result. That’s a matter for the people. We’ll find out soon enough!

Full interviews appear on our website www.indianlink.com.au

Alan Griffin, Labor

Many ways to get there

Migrants discuss their experiences on first arriving in Australia and the importance of assimilation

By CARL BUHARIWALA

The Whitehorse Interfaith Network (WIN) hosted an important seminar on migration and faith in July 2013, being the month of multicultural awareness. WIN consists of a group of volunteers that believe that faith should be a unifying force in all communities. Held at the Whitehorse Centre in Nunawading, people from all cultures and faiths gathered to witness three guest speakers voice experiences of their journey to Australia.

Najaf Mazari, distinguished author and businessman originating from the Hazara people from Afghanistan, shed light on his experience when he fled Afghanistan in 2001 and made his way to Australia. He talked about the time spent in the Woomera Detention Centre, offering insights into the life of a migrant arriving here. Pari Sanyu, of the Mizo-Chin people from the borders of Burma and India, explored the intersection between faith and culture, and how it is important to negotiate differing religious and cultural practices to associate better with the Australian community. Finally, Dilnaz Billimoria, of the Zoroastrian Parsi people from India presented an important message that migrants from any faith must give back to Australia, in return for what this country has to offer. This requires knowledge and an understanding of the Australian way of life.

Ms Sanyu expressed her concern about practicing the rituals of her religion and culture in Australia. On arriving, she realised that there were very few people from her community here, which led to a feeling of isolation. She remained hesitant about how to practice her faith in Australia, but after joining an interfaith network, her tolerant and kindhearted Australian friends taught her important aspects of their culture.

“In hindsight, it is a hindrance for a migrant to have preconceptions of what is and is not allowed or accepted in their new country. One should arrive with an open mind and remain positive in their quest to seek a new home. They should be willing to change and adapt,” she stated.

This point resonated throughout the speeches by all three speakers. Regardless of which faith or culture one belongs to, knowledge and an understanding of the social, working and living conditions in Australia is essential. This allows one to participate and feel included in their new home and what it has to offer. This will prevent the possibility of conflict, as migrants will be able to communicate and integrate with their new neighbours. Differing customs and practices should be negotiated so that both parties feel at peace in their community.

However, Mr Mazari raised an important issue that faces many migrants who decide to move here. “Most of them have completely no idea of what

Australia is like and how they will fit in, and this can restrain their ability to move forward in their new home. Although this is an issue that is hard to fully rectify, steps should be taken to enlighten and educate migrants before they arrive,” he stated. Even though this might not change their view on Australia, it is best to be honest with future migrants. This will make their arrival here, with its many processes, not an arduous journey.

Although many Australians are passionate about the treatment of migrants and encourage the Australian government to improve their policies, all three speakers noted that they are very grateful that they have been allowed to find shelter in a safe and opportunity-filled country. All were positive about their outcomes and explained that whilst it was troublesome and stressful, the reward was worth the wait. They were thrilled to be accepted! Australians should also be excited with the influx of new migrants.

Dilnaz Billimoria shared a poignant piece of history from when the Parsis fled Iran in the 8th century and sought refuge in Sanjan, on the west coast of India. On arrival, the Parsis showed the Indian inhabitants that whilst milk on its own tastes bland, adding sugar to the milk sweetens the taste. Also, not a drop of milk was spilled. Ms Billimoria drew on this analogy and explained how migrants provide Australia with hope and opportunity. They bring culture and language, and add variety to song and food.

Mr Mazari also explained the importance of migrants who may not bring financial resources, but

they bring their skills, experience and love, which are important resources for Australia.

Important MPs and councillors, including Hon Graham Watt, attended the event, allowing WIN to showcase their efforts in providing a useful seminar to the public on migration and faith. Such events are important as the public gains insights into the experiences of fellow Australians who have taken different paths to come here. There are many ways to get to Australia, and migrating as an asylum seeker is currently an important topic. The experiences of past migrants must be heard, to not only inform the community, but to take heed of their advice and suggestions.

Mr K alElu

Regardless of which faith or culture one belongs to, knowledge and an understanding of the social, working and living conditions in Australia is essential

Harmony day

AISV discusses preventative and innovative solutions to end domestic violence, writes SIMMI BAKSHI

The issue of domestic violence was put under the community microscope as part of Australia India Society of Victoria’s (AISV) Family Harmony Day celebrations recently. The Eric Raven Reserve in Glen Iris was the chosen venue to host this interactive event. Families were welcome, and despite the serious nature of the main topic, care was taken to entertain the children so that their parents could participate freely. The face painter with pink fairy wings proved popular as she kept the little children occupied.

The chief guest for the afternoon was Kelly O’Dwyer, Liberal Member for the Division of Higgins.

A panel of speakers were appointed by AISV to discuss preventative and innovative solutions to domestic Violence. The speakers contributed their personal, anecdotal and researched observations, and answered questions posed by the audience. The five panelists included, Vijaya Vaidyanath, Yarra City Council’s Chief Executive Officer; Gurpal Singh, Barrister & Solicitor; Jay Manya, Social worker; Nesan Naidoo, Global President at Mars Venus Executive Training, and Preeti Jabbal, Melbourne Coordinator of Indian Link AISV is the winner of the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman, one of the most prestigious awards bestowed by the Government of India to any overseas Indian Association. Since its inception in 1963, AISV has been committed to supporting new migrants

and advancing the needs of established Indian Australians. This event formed part of another worthwhile initiative by AISV to seek solutions and address the issue of domestic violence.

The topics that were discussed at length were community engagement in preventing domestic violence, teaching children about healthy relationships, raising awareness of resources available to victims and dealing with the perpetrators. Changing behaviours and attitudes and focusing on what men can do to stop domestic violence formed bulk of the discussion.

Threading the whole session together with confidence was the young and talented Mrinali Raizada as the MC for the afternoon.

Monica Raizada, Vice President of AISV, offered the formal vote of thanks and awarded certificates of appreciation to all the panelists and chief guests. As the afternoon wore on, Metropol catered a delicious lunch for the audience. Towards the end, the Chief Guest Kelly O’Dwyer commended AISV for holding such a thought provoking session on domestic violence and praised the panelists for their valuable input in raising awareness of this social epidemic.

Festive FIAV enjoys Silver Jubilee celebrations

Trust Fund in association with Australian Unity and various banks, toward opening a 90bed home for Indian seniors with a number of apartments, at Mt. Martha in the beautiful Mornington Peninsula.

Vasan also stated with pride that website information pages on the FIAV run into over twenty! Not taking anything away from previous FIAV Presidents, Vasan’s Presidency is already reaping rich dividends for the community.

warm day greeted invited dignitaries and members alike at the Preston City Hall, to celebrate the silver anniversary of the Federation of Indian Associations Victoria (FIAV).

Dr Santosh Kumar, President, Northern Region Indian Seniors Association (NRISA) and coordinator for the day, greeted as many members as he could.

Melbourne radio hostess Mrs Vijaylakshmi took to the stage to welcome members, and invited Barbara Nagaya as MC, to commence the program by singing praises to Gods of all faiths. Barbara sang a selection of Sanskrit shlokas in her rich voice and disciplined style, as only she can, following up with an apt Bollywood number, Ajeeb dastaan hai yeh, kahan shuru – kahan khatam, from Dil Apna Aur Preet Paraee

Next came a troupe of young dancers from the Shiamak School of Dance and Music, who performed an ultra-fast and well-rehearsed dance of the 21st century. They acted out a rather ominous battle show with traditional kirpans to pre-recorded music. Next, Dr Santosh Kumar, on behalf of FIAV, welcomed Mr Rakesh Kawra from the Indian Consulate General, Mr Chitambaran Srinivasan, Victorian Multicultural Commission Commissioner, and Presidents and members from Malayali, Goan, Gujarati, Kashmiri, Marathi, Kingston Indian Senior Citizens Association (KISCA), and Indian Seniors Forum (ISF), among others. He regretted that many other associations invited did not even acknowledge the invitation. He reiterated that that partnerships survive on the principal of ‘give and take’, or

they just wither away. He praised FIAV President Vasan Srinivasan’s perseverance in promoting the community’s cause with the government to receive grants and concessions. Mr Matta, an elegant senior, placed a shawl around Mr Vasan’s shoulders in the acknowledgement of his relentless services to the community.

Santosh recommended that the community must recognise the need for an umbrella organisation such as FIAV, which caters to their ever-increasing needs.

Santosh praised the contributions of various members to the community and Australia.

He cited that Mrs Krishna Arora and Mrs Usha Sharma were the only two of Indian origin whose names appear on the Schillings Wall of Fame. He praised Mr Surinder Verma, a journalist who has written many books that have been translated into other languages.

Charming Ms Sunita Sethi took the stage to perform two wellpicked songs impeccably, followed by Mr Sushil Sharma of NRISA, who also sang two songs in his rich voice.

Commissioner Srini was all praise and encouragement for the efforts made by various associations to entertain and rejuvenate our seniors.

“Melbourne is the most multicultural city in the world, which portrays a beautiful mosaic of cultural harmony in diversity. To promote cultural activities, an affiliation with FIAV is paramount, which acts as a bridge between the community and the government,” stated Srini. As per an ABS 2011 report, one-third of Australia’s population are over sixty. Most recent Indian immigrants are not English language literate, and the VMC spends $1.7 million among 700 associations to educate and entertain them. There are many Indian recipients of the Order of Australia and the Medal of the Order of Australia whose services

to society have been recognised, he stated. Very thoughtfully, Monica Dowling from ‘Donate Life’ was invited to enlighten attendees on the benefits to society of donating organs. “One donor,” said Ms Dowling, “helps in saving pain to the lives of at least ten people”.

FIAV President Mr Vasan Srinivasan praised the government of Victoria for giving the community a hall and an office in centrally located Little India in Dandenong, for community

related activities. Hindu Society has created a cultural section to accommodate 700, and also a museum of India. With pride Vasan stated that FIAV has been instrumental in bringing together 26 dance and music outlets under one umbrella called the Federation of Indian Music and Dance Cooperation (FIMDC), and also the Multi Faith Organisation (MFO). He stressed the need for coming together so we may strive to serve you even better. FIAV has finally created an Indo-Australia

The services of various members of the community were acknowledged through presentations. Dr Naunihal Singh was awarded a plaque by Mr Rakesh Kawra, and was presented with a pin - a replica of the Indian Ashok Chakra with Australian kangaroo and emu visuals, on his jacket.

A Professor of maths at Monash University for 30 years, Dr Singh was Vice President of Hindi Niketan and continues promoting India and the Hindi language. Mr Hitler David, of the Malayali Association was the first India-born engineer in the tools and dye industry. He is President of World Malayali Association and actively promotes the Malayali cause and culture in Australia.

Mr KLS Bhagat was felicitated next, of an Indian army background, he has been teaching yoga for years. Mr Arjan Tuli, apart from his duties as first President of Indian Seniors Association – West (ISAW), is also involved in running an orphanage at Pondicherry. The last to receive his plaque, surprise-surprise, was yours truly, from Indian Link, for covering the Melbourne cultural scene. Mr Gandhi Berinakoppa, exVice President, FIAV, and Mr Thiruvallam Bhasi, Editor, Malayalee News were also invited to the stage. The ‘youngest member of the community’ Sardar Bharpur Singh Mokal was invited to the stage by Vasan. This living legend will celebrate his 98th birthday on October 6. Sardar Harbhajan Singh Aulak, 81, created a stir as he recounted in Punjabi, his athletic achievements in India and Australia. The lunch from Tandoori Junction was delicious and brought an end to a wellpresented and well-managed program. The 250 guests seemed more than satisfied with the event which took Dr Santosh Kumar and Mr Vasan months to organise. A great day to celebrate a great milestone.

GEORGE THAKUR

national body for Indian community

Confederation to work for and serve all Indians and enhance Indo-Oz relations, writes PREETI JABBAL

The Confederation of Indian Australian Association Inc. (CIAA), a national representative body for all Australian Indians, was launched at the Indian Consulate in Melbourne recently, under the auspices of the Indian High Commissioner Mr Biren Nanda.

Representatives of all Victorian Indian Associations attended the event along with some representatives from New South Wales and Queensland.

Dignitaries attending the event included Mr Scott Morrison, Shadow Opposition Minister for Immigration, Ms Inga Peulich representing South Eastern Metropolitan and Parliamentary Secretary for Education and State Opposition representative, Ms Marsha Thomson, member for Footscray.

“The confederation will work and serve all Indians and will enhance the links between our new home Australia and our motherland India,” said Mr Srinivasan, President of the Federation of Indian Associations. The Confederation will be a

truly national institution that will be a counsel and lobby for our community with all levels of government. We request all Indian associations to participate for our collective good,” he stated.

In his speech Mr Nanda cautioned against division, and called upon all to “build an institution not to serve individual

interests, but for all Indians in Australia.” Mr Morrison offered the LNP Opposition’s support for the Confederation adding, “If elected to government on 7/9... the Government (Liberal) will always have its eye on the needs and concerns of Indians throughout Australia”.

An interim committee will

be established consisting of chairperson Mr Srinivasan and a representative from each State and Territory. Mr Peter Vlahos (FIAV Legal Counsel) is expected to assist in matters that are administrative and constitutional.

Dr P Naidu Bodapati, President, QLD FICQ represented other Australian states. He was elected

as part of the interim committee to represent Queensland, while Mr Stanley D’Cruz was nominated to represent New South Wales. The patron of FICQ Mr Surendra Prasad OAM was also present at the event. A constitution will be drafted and finalised very soon, outlining the objectives and aims of the confederate.

liberals visit Blackburn Gurudwara

The party’s view on student and visa issues are propounded during a visit to the Sikh community temple, writes SIMMI

Indian students are very, very welcome to Australia,” claimed Scott Morrison, Shadow Immigration Minister who visited the Gurudwara Sahib (Sikh Temple) in Blackburn recently, along with other leaders of the Liberal Party. “Not only are the students welcome, but under our Government, Australia will look after them when they are here. This can be done by working through community organisations like this temple to ensure that people who come here to study, whether they are here on a temporary or permanent visa, can be successful,” he continued.

Speaking about the current Governments stand on 457 visas, Minister Morrison alleged that Kevin Rudd and the Labor Government have attempted to choke this visa category. “The answer does not lie in over-regulating the visas, but in better enforcement of the process,” said Minister Morrison while addressing invited media representatives.

The Minister was accompanied by Senator Scott Ryan, Shadow

Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Fair Competition; Emanuele Cicchiello, Liberal for Bruce; and Michael Sukkar, Liberal For Deakin. Vasan Srinivasan, President of FIAV; Perminder Rayat, Liberal party supporter; and Goldy Brar, Liberal Party Member from Bundoora, were also present. Several members of the Gurudwara Management Committee

welcomed the guests and led them on a tour of the temple premises. The Gurudwara officials included Devinder Singh Bedi, Anterpreet Singh Arneja, Manohar Singh Sidhu, Inderjit Singh Jasal, Luckee Kohli and Paramjeet Jaswal.

“The Liberal Party has always been an advocate of skilled migration,” said Minister Morrison. “Under the Liberal government you will never hear

that Indian migrants will take Australian jobs. We will always welcome migrants as we know that they build the community, not take away from it”. He urged the Sikh community to support Liberal candidates like Emanuelle Cicchiello and Michael Sukkar to enable them to make changes at the local level.

The leaders continued to make similar appeals, while addressing

BAKSHI

the hundreds of devotees who came to pray at the temple. The dignitaries were also shown the Gurudwara library, communal kitchen and the newly built Khalsa Punjabi School where they met with school staff and students. The guests observed protocol by accepting the sweet offering (kada parsad); however they did not stay back for the temple food (langar).

The ministers with teachers and children in the library

The Senior Scene

held its Annual General Meeting paid members attending. To commemorate India’s 66th Independence Day, President Mona Raju asked us to stand up, place our right hands over our chests in a USA-style salute, and sing the Indian national anthem. The performance ended with loud chants of Jai Hind. Some Fiji enthusiasts even chanted Jai Fiji! Barbara Nagaya, the new elected President, thanked the outgoing Committee and welcomed new and old members alike. Vice President Raj Babbar assured members that under Barbara’s guidance, he would do all he can for KISCA members.

“Barbara or Babbar,” punned Raj, “we both mean to serve”. Mona Raju is the new Secretary, Ratan Moolchandani the Treasurer, and Kiran Bedi, Rita Aggarwal, and Vishnu Prasad Committee members. President Nagaya may be contacted on 03 9893 3427.

Indian Senior Citizens Association (ISCA)

celebrated the annual Multicultural Day recently, with members turning up at the venue despite

tickets being on sale since July. Members interacted and shared their thoughts with Anna Burke, Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives; and Mr John Nguyen, the aspirant candidate who is challenging the Speaker in her constituency. Alan Griffin MP, arrived a bit late. Michael Gidley, the local MP, also praised ISCA’s efforts. Cr. Robert Davis; Mr Emanuele Cicchiello, aspirant candidate from Bruce constituency; and VMC Chief Chin Tan were also present. Mr Srinivasan, VMC Commissioner for the Indian community praised Chinese participation in an Indian function as “a great example of the India and China friendship”.

President Prem Phakey welcomed the honourable guests, members and artists who were to perform on the day. Prem acknowledged VMC grants for various functions such as Diwali and Christmas, and the current Multicultural Day. Ms Burke, in her intimate style, appreciated the community’s efforts at maintaining their culture via these events. She also referred to a journalist from the Hindustan Times who attended a Federal Parliament session and reported on the event back at home in an unbiased manner. Alan Griffin mentioned the unique message of the ISCA motto: Friendship and Mutual Help, besides two hands clasped in a friendly shake, which Shano Rajkumar created some dozen years ago as first editor of

the ISCA’s newsletter. Alan also praised the ISCA banner, the product of Shano’s imagination and intellect. Alan also shot a comment, to everyone’s delight and muffled laughter, that while he himself was getting older, “You Indians are looking younger and younger!” Elegantly dressed as always, Srini Srinivasan was his usual friendly self.

On concluding housekeeping issues, Prem reminded members to fill in forms for positions or recommendations on ISCA’s Working Committee. Next, Prem introduced Mr Sunder Shivdasani, Returning Officer for the AGM, who advised that it will be held at the usual Mt. Waverley Hall venue.

Mr and Mrs Krihan Lal Bagga were congratulated for celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on the day. The 14 September meeting will be held as scheduled. Jasbir Bedi invited a group of six colourfully attired dancers in silken costumes and ribbons from Monash Chinese Friendship Association, who performed a sublime dance on pre-recorded music, to great applause. Now came the heartbeat of the day, when Chinese origin Niu Zhiguo sang, Awaara Hoon. Ya gardish men hoon aasmaan katara hoon, from Raj Kapoor’s Awaara (1952). He sang in Mandarin of course, but to the original music, and the applause seem never-ending. He also sang another number in Mandarin in his clear voice.

Now came young Vidarshana

(15), and the Anand sisters Chandana (15) and Yogita (just 5), all students learning Bharatnatyam at the Vignyaasa School of Indian Dances. They performed a dance with mastery of movement. The Chinese group returned to perform another dance, while the Indonesian dance troupe sent in their apologies. Lunch from Tandoori Junction was delicious and enjoyed by all. For more information, please call President Phakey on 03 9803 3989.

The Indian Senior Forum (ISF) commemorated India’s Independence Day by making their meeting a colourful musical event. 60 plus members came dressed in colours of the Indian flag and filled the room with saffron, white and lush greens. The day started off with the National Anthem and was followed by some of India’s most patriotic songs. The members then participated in an interactive quiz on Independence Day. In fact, each senior remembered the independence movement so clearly that it transformed from a quiz to a reminiscing activity. Finally, on a lighter note, members enjoyed participating in a Bollywood quiz on patriotic songs. The day ended with a reflection on our adopted country’s history as well, and what it meant to be an Australian Indian. With similar passion and fervour, many members individually described what it meant to them

to be Australian. One member detailed the history of Australia and the journey of Australia’s independence. Indian seniors celebrated their culture, identity and country on this fun-filled day of activities, reflection and celebration. These forums take pleasure in preventing social isolation of the elderly and giving them a sense of togetherness and belonging.

On September 22, the forum is organising a bus trip to Geelong. For more details contact Mr SK Auplish on 03 9561 1878.

The adorable Krishna

In a recently held music program, the Shiamak Indian Music and Dance Group invited Mrs Krishna Arora and asked her to dance on the stage at their event. Forever obliging, Krishna agreed and despite her ripe age, readily danced to everyone’s delight. Cat whistles accompanied worded accolades. At the end of the show, the group presented Krishna with a trophy titled ‘Shiamak Star’, for being the oldest dancer on their stage and for being such a great sport. Bollywood choreographer and dancer Shiamak Davar has three branches of the school in Melbourne.

Indian Seniors Association - West

(ISAW) celebrated India’s 66th Independence Day by taking its members to Water Gardens Hotel in Taylor’s Lakes for a grand buffet lunch. Both the ambience and the food were excellent, as members expected, and everybody had a truly great time.

For more information on ISAW’s program, please call President Arjan Tuli on 03 9390 2818.

GEORGE THAKUR

Krishna Arora is Shiamak’s ‘Star’

ISAW seniors

What’s dragging rupee down: Speculation or economics?

What’s fuelling the persistent fall in the value of the Indian rupee? According to experts, there are several reasons. But most of them feel the bottom is yet to be tested.

The rupee, which was valued at around 55 to a US dollar in January, now trades as much as 18% lower at 65 to the greenback. Against the British pound sterling, it has breached the 100-mark. Each passing day is seeing a new low.

The Indian currency depreciated almost five percent this month.

Some analysts feel the currency has weakened due to structural problems in the economy and the trend would continue if they were not addressed urgently. Others maintain the recent volatility is more due to speculations and external factors.

“The decline is not just because of psychological factors alone,” said Anis Chakravarty, senior director, Deloitte in India. “This is hard economics,” Chakravarty told IANS.

He said structural problems in the Indian economy are impacting investment and growth and must be addressed urgently to ensure stability in the currency and equity markets.

“There are issues with the Indian economy that need to be addressed”.

He pointed out that India’s current account deficit - which is the difference between the total imports and exports of goods and services, and also inward and outward money transfers - jumped more than 10 times in five years.

In other words, a net amount of $90

billion equivalent went out of India in 201213, as against $8 billion in 2007-08, putting much pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves that is generally used by central banks to keep currency markets stable.

Equated to the gross domestic product, the deficit touched a record of 4.8%.

“Foreign funds have withdrawn significant amount of money out of Indian markets in the past couple of months. The trend continued during August. It is evident that alarmingly high levels of current account deficit have been core to this slide,” Chakravarty said.

Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said the rupee is undervalued and has overshot its reasonable limit due to “unwarranted pessimism” in the markets.

Some analysts also see the recent volatility as a result of speculation. “It is more of hype and overdone,” says Siddharth Shankar, advisor at brokerage firm KASSA.

“There was no such economic development in the past couple of months to justify this volatility”.

According to Deutsche Bank and several think tanks and analysts, the rupee will soon touch a new low.

“We now believe the rupee could touch 70 to the US dollar in a month or so, although we expect some revival by the end of the year,” the German bank said in a report.

Shankar, referring to the Deutsche Bank report, said such statements only add to the volatility that affects the economy.

“No doubt, there are problems with the Indian economy - growth is low, current

account deficit is high. But these things have not come about in the last one or two months. They have been there for a couple of years,” he said.

India’s economic growth slumped to five percent in the financial year ended March 31, 2013. And according to Shankar, growth was likely to remain below five percent in the current fiscal as well.

Dinesh Thakkar, chairman and managing director of Angel Broking, said the Indian rupee was slipping due to both weak domestic and international factors.

“We expect the depreciation in the rupee to continue until the Indian economic scenario stabilises and when the world markets absorb the impact of the quantitative easing of stimulus process by the US Federal Reserve,” Thakkar told IANS.

The US Federal Reserve recently indicated that it may resort to quantitative easing by trimming the $85-billion-a-month debt purchases later this year and eventually end it by next year if the economy performs in line with estimates and the job situation improves.

These comments led to a broad rally in the dollar, while currencies of other emerging markets, including Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand hit multi-year lows.

But the Indian rupee was the worst hit. It has depreciated more than 15% in three months.

Foreign funds have also sold over $11.5 billion of Indian debt and equities since the Fed hinted at cutting the stimulus in late May.

Trimming of stimulus by the US may lead

to further outflow from India’s equity and debt markets and put more pressure on the current account deficit - and ultimately the rupee. A foreign exchange reserve of $275 billion could prove little to stave it off.

Now, Chennai autos GPS-fitted, costlier

In a first-of-its-kind development in the country, auto-rickshaws in Chennai will be fitted with a meter with global positioning system (GPS) and electronic digital printer, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa said recently.

In a statement issued revising the tariff for auto-rickshaws, Jayalalithaa said: “For the first time in India, auto-rickshaws plying in Chennai will be fitted with GPS and electronic digital printer, free of cost, by the government, involving an outlay of Rs.80 crore”.

She said the travelling public will be given a receipt with the distance travelled and the tariff rate.

“The operation of the auto-rickshaws will also be monitored effectively,” she added. The meter, the chief minister explained, will also have a ‘panic button’ so that a passenger can press it in case of any danger. The device enables monitoring by a control centre.

She said the government has fixed the minimum tariff rate at Rs.25 for the first 1.8 km and Rs.12 for every additional km. For night travel (between 10 p.m. and 5.a.m.), the tariff will be higher by 50 percent.

The waiting charges will be Rs.3.50 per five minutes, and Rs.42 per hour.

An Indian girl ties a Rakhi or a sacred thread on the wrist of the President at Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus railway station on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan festival in Mumbai, 20 August 2013. Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival celebrating the bond between sisters and brothers and is observed all across the country

in D ian n EWs

The revised tariff will be effective from Sunday and the tariff cards can be obtained from the regional transport authority office by the auto-rickshaw drivers.

“One of the barometers of the law and order situation in a state/city is how the auto-rickshaw/taxi drivers charge their customers and how the government implements the rule of law. In Chennai, auto-rickshaws are notorious for over charging. I hope at least the government will now implement strictly the rule of law,” she said. Nitya a private sector employee told IANS.

In 2007, when auto-rickshaw tariff was last revised, the minimum meter rate was fixed at Rs.14.

All five Mumbai rapists held, Chavan assures speedy justice

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj

Chavan Aug 26 said the Mumbai gang-rape case would be tried in a fast track court and noted criminal lawyer Ujjwal Nikam has been requested to appear as public prosecutor even as the fifth suspect was arrested.

The last remaining accused was arrested in Delhi, hours after the fourth accused was held in Mumbai, ending a three-day hunt that followed the horrific sexual assault of a photojournalist.

“The case will be tried in fast-track court to ensure speedy justice to the victim,” Chavan told reporters in Pune.

Mohammad Salim Ansari, 27, was nabbed at Bharat Nagar in north Delhi, a Delhi Police official told IANS.

An official said four officials from Mumbai Crime Branch and a team of Delhi Police trapped Ansari and took him into custody as he was going to a relative’s house.

He was taken to a hospital for a medical check-up and presented before a duty magistrate before being taken to Mumbai.

The Delhi court granted Mumbai police his transit remand for 48 hours, after which he would have to be presented before a court.

According to police, the fourth accused, Mohammed Kasim Hafiz Shaikh alias Kasim Bengali, was arrested at Mumbai Central railway station early on August 25. Co-accused Siraj Rehman Khan was arrested the night before.

A Mumbai court sent both Hafiz Shaikh and Khan to police custody till August 30 for questioning.

The 22-year-old photojournalist was raped by five men in an abandoned textile mill complex in central Mumbai on August 22 after her male colleague was beaten and bound.

The Mumbai gang-rape mirrored the December 16, 2012 sexual assault in a bus in Delhi on a young woman who eventually died in a Singapore hospital.

The latest incident shocked the entire nation, triggering fresh demands for death to rapists.

The Mumbai accused allegedly also shot pictures of the crime on mobile phones and threatened the victims with dire consequences if they complained to police.

The photojournalist was on an assignment for an English magazine and had gone to the desolate area to take pictures of the abandoned factories when she and her male companion were attacked.

Disgusted by the sordid details of the gang rape, Hafiz Shaikh’s mother told the media at her home in Mumbai that the authorities and courts were free to hand out the most severe

punishment to her son.

“He deserves strong punishment,” said Chand Bibi in Agripada in south Mumbai.

Two other suspects, Vijay Jadhav and Chand Babu Sattar Shaikh, are also in Mumbai police custody till August 30.

While Shaikh was nabbed within 18 hours of the incident that shocked the nation, Jadhav was taken into custody on August 24.

The photojournalist remains warded in hospital after suffering serious injuries.

On August 25, her family pleaded for her privacy while the Maharashtra government said public prosecutor Nikam, who successfully called for death sentence to Mumbai terror attack accused Ajmal Kasab, is set to take up the case against the five rapists.

India-born Satya Nadella in running for Microsoft top job

India-born Satya Nadella, currently heading Microsoft’s Cloud and Enterprise group, is listed among likely successors to the information technology giant’s CEO Steve Ballmer, who is set to retire within a year.

As executive vice president, Nadella “runs a group that continues to churn out growth and profits,” noted Seattle Times in a story on the start of a guessing game among Microsoft watchers since Ballmer’s impending departure was announced.

“There is no single clear successor to a lightning rod of a leader who remains one of the most identifiable CEOs in the country,” it said.

“What’s more, the next CEO may well have a far different job than the one Ballmer is vacating,” the Times said as “Once the dominant force in technology, Microsoft now finds itself chasing companies in key businesses such as Google in Web search and Apple in mobile devices”.

Nadella, 44, as head of Microsoft’s $19 billion Server and Tools Business, is credited with the transformation of the business and technology from client-server software to cloud infrastructure and services.

Before joining Microsoft in 1992, where he initially worked as the senior vice president of R&D for the Online Services

Division and vice president of the Microsoft Business Division, Nadella worked with Sun Microsystems as a member of the technology staff.

Listing Nadella among potential Ballmer successors, the Wall Street Journal noted he “ran the Server and Tools business successfully from 2011 to this year and took over running the company’s important cloud-computing efforts in last month’s management reshuffle”.

“Indeed, in reassigning a number of top executives, that reorganisation seems a tailormade bake-off for the top job,” it said.

Nadella also figures on the New York Times’ list of current Microsoft executives who could be contenders besides Tony Bates, former director of Skype and now executive vice president of business development and strategy.

Speculation by analysts and executives about external candidates included Sheryl Sandberg, chief operating officer of Facebook; Reed Hastings, chief executive of Netflix and a former director at Microsoft; Scott Forstall, who ran iOS at Apple until last year and John Legere, chief executive of T-Mobile, it said.

Nadella holds a Master of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago, and a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering from the Manipal Institute of Technology.

He is also an alumnus of the Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet.

US marijuana streak named after Sanjay Gupta

Indian American medical journalist Sanjay Gupta has had a strain of cannabis named after him since he suggested a relook at the use of medical marijuana changing his previous position on the controversial issue.

A Colorado medical dispensary named a new type of medical marijuana - Gupta Kush - after Gupta, CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent, adding him to a list of celebrities including President Barack Obama who have namesake cannabis strains.

“Dr. Gupta’s recent reporting on marijuana puts him at the forefront of the medical cannabis movement, and we thought what better way to honour his efforts than by giving him his own strain,” said Jeff Kless, owner of Helping Hands Herbals Dispensary in Boulder, Colorado, in a media release.

“We’d like to ensure he remains part of the annals of cannabis culture, and now he will,” he added.

Kless called naming a marijuana strain after Gupta as “our way of tipping our hat and honouring him for taking such a firm, science-based stance on behalf of marijuana as ‘real’ medicine”.

“The political and health establishments now realise that cannabis has genuine medical benefits, which we’ve been saying for years,” he said.

“Gupta Kush imparts a very relaxing state that calms the mind without compromising clarity. When the mind is quiet and happy, people allow themselves to heal. Medical marijuana helps that happen,” Kless claimed.

Gupta Kush is an indica strain with its origins in the Hindu Kush mountains of South Asia, the reported birthplace of some of the world’s oldest and most potent cannabis strains, according to the release.

It has a rich green colour hidden beneath a deep layer of trichomes, and a thick, hashy, floral taste. Onset is immediate and effects are long-lasting, it said.

Since publicly announcing his changed views on medical marijuana earlier this month, Gupta has inspired a more serious look at weed and even generated some pressure on Obama to re-examine his position on marijuana laws.

However, the White House last week indicated Obama isn’t looking to change current federal laws relating to marijuana anytime soon in the light of Gupta’s views.

Obama considered naming CNN’s Gupta as surgeon general in 2009, but the neurosurgeon later said he withdrew his name so he could maintain his surgical career. IANS

An Indian Air Force Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules kicks up a cloud of dust after landing at the high-altitude Daulat Beg Oldie military airstrip in the Ladakh region of the Indian Himalayas on August 20, 2013. The C-130J aircraft made its first successful landing at the airstrip, the world’s highest at 16,614 feet (5,065 metres), which is serviced by the smaller twin-turboprop engined Antonov An-32 and military helicopters

Happy Birthday

PREETI JABBAL

The history, heritage and people of India were celebrated in style on August 15 at the Victorian Parliament House in Melbourne. The Australia India Society Of Victoria (AISV) and the Australian Indian Business Council (AIBC) jointly organised this gala Indian Independence Day event. Several important local politicians attended the celebration to mark the bilateral relationship with India, and to pledge support for the Indian community. All of this was well timed, prior to the federal elections.

Among the dignitaries present were Shadow Immigration Minister Scott Morrison; Leader of Opposition Danielle Andrews; Former ALP leader Martin Ferguson; Parliamentary Secretary to Kevin Rudd, ALP’s Alan Griffin; Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship and Minister for Energy and Resources Nicholas Kotsiras; Member for Footscray, ALP’s Marsha Thompson; and Member for Bentleigh, Elizabeth Miller; and Tim Pallas, State MP for Tarneit, Shadow Treasurer and Shadow Minister for Employment.

Also present were Dr Gurdip Aurora, President of AISV; Vasan Srinivasan, President of FIAV; Ravi Bhatia, President of AIBC (Victoria); Arjun Surapaneni CEO, VIT (Victorian Institute

of Technology); Nitin Gupta, Ministerial Adviser; Rakesh Kawra, Indian Vice Consul; and Raj Kumar, Acting Consul General of India in Melbourne. It was a remarkable feat to get people to participate with enthusiasm on a weekday; however AISV and AIBC seemed to pull it off with success.

According to Dr Aurora, the decision to hold this event on the ‘actual day’ was made on the suggestion of late Consul General of India in Melbourne, Dr Subhakanta Behera. “Not long before he passed away, Dr Behera lamented the trend in Australia to celebrate Independence Day and other national events over weekends. According to him, a significant event on August 15, the day of Indian independence

should be celebrated on the real day, not before or after,” said Dr Aurora, sharing the reason for holding the event on a Thursday. He thanked the managing committee of AISV and AIBC for supporting him in fulfilling Dr Behera’s wishes. It was predominantly a networking event sprinkled with some entertainment in the form of a Bollywood medley and a fabulous Ukrainian traditional dance. The agility of the male dancers was matched equally by the elegance of their female partners, and it made a refreshing change for those present to witness the culture of another

community. The bulk of the evening was made up of speeches from dignitaries, interspersed with interesting anecdotes from the MC Manpreet Kaur from SBS Punjabi radio.

Several speakers mentioned the shared history of Indians and Australians during World War II and claimed that the bonds between India and Australia go beyond cricket and economic alliance. Ravi Bhatia, President of AIBC spoke of the resilience of the people of India and took the opportunity to introduce and thank the Management Committee of AIBC, who according to him, have done a

India

Strong political presence at AISV and AIBC organised Independence Day celebrations

sterling job of growing Indian Australian business relationships. Scott Morrison spoke about the important role that the Indian community has played in Australian society. “The opportunities in IT, finance, tourism and education industries further cements the need for association of Australia with India, and there is no doubt that India is critical to the economic future of Australia,” said the Minister. He thanked the Indian community for a partnership that is growing and benefitting both nations.

Minister Kotsiras managed to stir up the audience with his

tongue in cheek comment about India being the second best cricketing nation in the world. On a serious note, he reflected on the achievements of India as a nation in being a democratic multi-faith and multicultural nation. According to him, while there has been a lot of work done to support new migrants, the challenge lies in thinking of future needs of the rapidly growing Indian community. The challenge is to get the Indian community in Australia together as a force, to fulfil future needs like building a nursing home for Indians in Australia. He said he was wiling to support the efforts of the

community, and they could continue to organise functions and cultural shows and events; however, a solution needs to be found to unite the community to address the needs of the future generation. Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews ended the speeches by offering a few brief comments. He praised the contribution of the Indian community, in particular their efforts in the medical, healthcare sector in Victoria and the broader nation. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Monica Raizada, the dynamic Vice President of AISV.

And where were you on 15 Aug 1947?

Acrowd of about 50 gathered at the India Consulate at 344 St. Kilda rd, Melbourne to celebrate India’s Independence day. The early morning ceremony saw the acting Consul General r aj Kumar unfurl the Indian national flag as the members of the Indian community collectively sang the national anthem.

Mr Kumar also read out the message of the Indian high Commissioner in Australia Mr Biren nanda, to Indian nationals here.

“India’s relations with Australia have grown from strength to strength since the establishment of a strategic partnership between the two countries in 2009,” Mr nanda observed. “last year people born in India were the largest segment of new immigrants in Australia. The 400,000 strong Indian community in Australia is acting as a bridge between the two countries. They have the potential and the capacity to qualitatively transform our bilateral relations in the future”.

Community members then took the floor. The eighty-something Krishna Arora, everyone’s favourite “Aunty”, spoke warmly about her memories of mid August, 1947.

“I was a teenager in delhi,” she recalled as everyone listened, enthralled. “There were feelings of happiness sweeping over the entire city. we sat glued to the radio, our only source of information. I remember the city all lit up in celebration. The India Gate area was decked up like I had never seen it before”.

no doubt the description was of the days before the religious riots between the hindus and the Muslims broke out. or perhaps, Mrs Arora cleverly chose to ignore that part of our history on this particular occasion!

A poem presentation in hindi by Aviti was another highlight.

o ver snacks, the discussion was all about the upcoming regional pravasi Bharatiya divas to be held in Sydney later this year.

Ashish Chawla

The great East-west contrast for healthy living

By NOEL G DE SOUz A

The Western prescription for good health, such as for those who have diseases like diabetes and heart problems, is to remain active; practically, this means walking or jogging. More energetic versions are cycling and swimming.

In contrast, the Eastern prescription (Hindu-Buddhist) for good physical and mental health is staying still and includes emptying the mind (pratyahara). Emptying the mind is no easy task; the mind is naturally designed to flit from one thought to the next. Memory consists of a jumble of mind-images which are an imprint of the world which one has experienced. Patanjali counsels against modifying such images, as that would mean being active and not passive, as pratyahara should be.

In these troubled times, worry and fear are widespread. The almost instant transmission of troubling news exacerbates the effect of events which may be far away, but nevertheless relevant. Emptying the mind from the effects of such emotions is no easy task. Events like the horrendous bombing in Boston and the tragic explosions in Texas have traumatised people even in far away places.

psychosomatic illnesses mean that we need to guard against allowing unhealthy emotions to permeate our way of life. Permitting emotions such as sadness and fear to dominate our thinking can be detrimental. Instead, making happiness and hopefulness a part of our meditative process could mean good health.

There is an obvious age factor which can dictate the exercises an individual chooses. Young athletic-oriented individuals with reasonably good health may opt for jogging and cycling, whilst older persons may choose relaxing exercises and hope that inner calm develops. A variant of active exercise is the military goose-step movements which were seen so often in the news relating to the threats from North Korea. Similar parades are also common in the Balkan states, such as in Greece.

Aged persons who choose relaxing exercises could possibly benefit from the Chinese Tai-Chi system which can be performed by individuals of all ages. Its main aim is apparently to achieve inner calm through graceful movements. A variant is the martial style movement invented during Mao’s time. It was political in character and was meant for galvanising the Chinese people.

Emptying the mind is no easy task; the mind is naturally designed to flit from one thought to the next. Memory consists of a jumble of mind-images which are an imprint of the world which one has experienced

Hindu scriptures liken the mind to a raging bull which needs to be controlled by holding its horns. Chapter 6 of the Bhagwad Gita extols: ‘In a fair still spot… Having his fixed abode… There restraining heart and senses, silent, calm, Let him accomplish Yoga, and achieve Pureness (of) soul, holding immovable Body and neck and head … Tranquil in spirit, free of fear… That Yogin, so devoted (and) so controlled comes to the peace beyond… ” (E. Arnold’s poetic version of the Gita).

Modern workplaces demand a lot of mental activity and alertness. Indeed, this places stress on individuals who long for calm and often go on holidays to distant places. International tourism has become the order of the day.

Of course, the Eastern and Western systems often contain elements of each other, but predominantly the Western way is to activate one’s muscles and breathing; whilst the Eastern way is to de-stress the body and slow the breathing to calm the mind (the highest version of this practice is dhyana, a term common to both Hinduism and Buddhism).

It is being accepted in the West that emotions have their effect on health. Such

Hospitals in Australia bar visitors during certain hours when patients are encouraged to rest and to sleep. Such supposed ‘inaction’ is said to help in the curative processes. This coincides with the Eastern way. It is possible for all individuals, whether sick or not, to set aside a period when they can rest with no interruption. It is then that they can stop worrying about the workplace and other matters, and try to ‘empty their minds’.

Modern medicine has produced a whole range of medicines for inducing sleep. Amongst these, barbiturates have a reputation of being habit-forming. Milder versions for helping one to sleep are periodically being announced by drug companies.

Some practitioners of yoga developed a type of yogic rest or trance called turiya which is absolute rest with the organs going into a feeble state of activity. Such a trance is obviously difficult to achieve. Modern medicine has its variant in the form of induced coma, which is used in very serious medical cases.

Every individual needs to make a conscious choice depending on what suits that person’s ability. For example, someone who cannot have a daily run might still be able to swim. Even someone who mostly lies in bed can engage in mental exercises. The above exercises might be decided upon by consultation with someone or by reading books, but the choice is entirely left to the individual. It is based on freedom of choice and on self-discipline.

De-stressing and rejuvenating the mind and body takes different forms globally, but serves the same healing purpose

Self confidence and pride

Women of all ages enjoy a fun-filled evening to celebrate the advent of the rainy season in India, writes

JASVINDER SIDHU

The Teeyan West Deeyan show on July 27 saw an overwhelming response as 600 girls and women joined together to celebrate the festival at the Mossfield Primary School in Melbourne’s Wyndham area. It is anticipated that this area will soon have the biggest concentration of

the Indian community in Victoria. Gracing the occasion were guests of honour, Heather Marcus, Mayor of Wyndham Council and Marie Brittan, and Deputy Mayor of Wyndham Council. A special guest of honour was Joanne Ryan, well known for her work in stopping the toxic dump in the Werribee area. Joanne is

replacing Julia Gillard as the Labor candidate in the forthcoming elections. VicePresident of Australia India Society of Victoria (AISV) Monica Raizada was also present.

The event began with an invocation to God through a shabad, sung by Navneet Kaur and Amandeep Kaur Girn, to the

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instrumental accompaniment of Ruby. Next followed a dazzling gidha performance by young girls, the littlest being just five. The innocent faces of the girls and their naughty expressions represented the context of the bolian in gidha, and left the crowd appreciative. Other events included Maar Udari (Hindi Group Dance), a themed skit on dowry, solo, duet and group dances, a Rajasthani dance, girls bhangra, and the ever-popular Bollywood dance.

Also worth mentioning was the puppet show by young girls, which was remarkably enacted by some very convincing acting. Another highlight of the event was a cultural fashion show, which showcased the richness of the Indian culture. The outfits were sponsored by Namrata Pandhi of Eleganza Boutique, and Ms Marcus particularly showed interest in the dresses. She made a special effort to ask the girls about the fabrics used and the styles.

“I wanted to show that our cultural outfits are suited for all, from the very young to girls, teenagers and ladies of all ages,” said Ms Pandhi. Kashish Vohra was the youngest model at just three years of age, and this was her first stage appearance, according to her mother Karuna.

Kashish received a trophy for her confident performance, and she was very excited at the accolade. Organiser Navneet Kaur stated that this is what Teeyan aims to do, to empower girls with selfconfidence and pride.

Speaking about the success of the event, platinum sponsor Loveleen Kaur of AITT College said that it was an “Exceptional event providing an avenue for networking to women”. Deputy Mayor Marie Brittan said, “It was a wonderful event. It was great to meet so many people from the Indian community. I just loved the music, dances, dresses and food. Congratulations to the organisers for a great show!” Joanne Ryan voiced similar sentiments, making a mention of the significance of the rains in Indian culture, and their impact on prosperity and happiness in families.

The key organisers of the event were Shama Bhangu, Dolly Rai, Ruby Kaur and Navneet Kaur. This massively successful event was not run by any major event management company, but rather by four mothers who worked tirelessly day and night for four months to ensure a well-organised event. Ruby and Navneet’s homes had become theatre workshops and mini childcare centres with young girls.

Benefits: •

Dazzling debut for Chand raat

The popular Eid festival draws over 10,000 to its inaugural event under a crescent moon

MAugust 10, marking the first southern excursion for the traditionally Sydney-based event. Music and dance performances headlined the spectacle, which also featured food and fashion stalls, henna painting, tarot readings and rides.

Adults and children flocked to the event with attendance numbers of over 10,000. The stage program was opened with a collaborative Sufi-fusion performance by Indian Australian crossover groups Sugam Sangeet Band and Sargam Orchestra. Hundreds had already arrived at the Sandown Racecourse venue before gates opened at 2pm. With the musical program kicking off a little later, most visitors began by taking in the stalls. Several Sydneybased organisations were present displaying their wares including traditional Indian dress and those with a more Muslim flavour, such as hijab and shalwar kameez

Further music performances continued through the afternoon, comprising the inauguration of the event. Music and dance was interspersed with talks, demonstrations and recitations, including 10-year-old AbdulRahman Mohammed of Springvale, who impressed the audience with his beautiful Quran recitation (qirat). Abdul-Rahman’s father, Fazlur-Rahman told Indian Link that his family moved to Melbourne seven years ago from Hyderabad in India. AbdulRahman learned his skill through a mixture of lessons from his father, and by teaching himself as he followed online videos of recitations from the subcontinent.

After 15 successful years in Sydney, the rapidly growing Chand Raat Eid festival has reached a major milestone in hosting its Melbourne event. As night fell and the festival’s namesake crescent moon ascended into the night sky, the festival’s director Syed Atiq ul Hassan thanked all involved for their participation and for contributing to the festive tourde-force. Mr Hassan also thanked the event’s guest of honour, Australia’s Federal Minister for Multicultural Affairs Kate Lundy,

and hinted at future expansion plans by hoping that Chand Raat would become a proud national event for all Australians.

With the official welcome concluded, there was not much left to do but party - musical acts returned to the stage beating out the latest Bollywood numbers, as well as more than a few classics and original compositions along the way. Meanwhile, a party was taking place at the other end of the fair where SBS Radio had set up shop with three of the station’s presenters for regional languages.

Punjabi presenter Manpreet Singh whipped up the crowd assembled in front of the van, before handing over to Urdu-speaking host Rana Shahid Javed and Pashto-speaking host Abdullah Alikhil, who played hit tunes from Pakistan and Afghanistan. A group of young Pathan and Hazara men danced wildly, drawing a crowd to compete with the main stage.

It was a cold but clear Melbourne night, and as the tandoor sizzled and the chai boiled outside, the stalls inside the racecourse building remained busy. Not far from Indian Link’s stall, Bangladeshi migrants Sarah and Raihan worked their mehndi stall for an ever-growing line.

Raihan, who had joined mehndi artist Sarah in Australia less than a month ago, smiled humbly as he explained the stall was an amateur business on which the duo were working. Across the room, the Tarneit-based Indian Exclusive Fashions stall did a roaring trade, while more still had their tarot cards read by Manya Manchandani who operates her business from home. In keeping with the spirit of Eid, Chand Raat is a cultural

event which draws strength from the connections of a local community.

Chand Raat, which literally means ‘night of the moon,’ is a celebration of the sighting of the crescent moon. The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, and therefore relies on astronomical sightings and calculations to determine the start and end dates of months. The ninth month of Ramadan (or Ramzan, as it is known in many South Asian languages) finished on the evening of August 7, with the sighting of the new crescent moon in Australia. It brought to an end the auspicious period of fasting for Muslims, while the moon was sighted one day later in India and Pakistan.

Regardless of which faith or culture one belongs to, knowledge and an understanding of the social, working and living conditions in Australia is essential

Self-belief to succeed

Indian Link chats with Kapil Dev about current cricketing talents and trends

the World Cup 2015? What prompted this comment?

Aceremony to launch the 11th Cricket World Cup was held in Melbourne recently, with international cricket legend Kapil Dev attending as a special guest of the ICC and Cricket Australia. The Cricket World Cup will be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand from February 14 to March 29, 2015. The Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand, ICC

President Alan Isaac and former cricketers were present during the launch.

14 teams will be seen in action across 14 venues, and Melbourne will host the finals.

A living legend he may be, but that does not stop Kapil Dev from being one of the most amicable and interesting people to whom I have spoken. Add to this personable mix a good sense of humour, and talking to Kapil Dev is a real delight! When the phone call came to catch up with him over breakfast, I did not hesitate to drag myself off my sick bed and headed towards the Grand Hyatt where Kapil was staying during his visit to Melbourne. He was due to fly back to India that afternoon to continue with his numerous commitments and pursue his all-consuming passion for golf. A warm welcome later, we found ourselves ensconced with him in a trendy café on Federation Square tucking into a hearty soup and conversation.

Preeti Jabbal (PJ): What was the buzz at the World Cup 2015 launch that you recently attended?

Kapil Dev (KD): The main buzz around the launch was because people were happy that the finals were to take place in Melbourne. It’s wonderful to see that the preparations have started almost 15 months in advance. In our part of the world this does not happen as we tend to leave things to the last minute. A good organisation starts planning much in advance, on top of that if the Prime Minister and the government of a country gets involved, then you do not come across many hurdles.

PJ: Hopefully! What will be your role at the World Cup 2015? Will you be involved, and in which capacity?

KD: It’s a bit too early to predict

that, as I said to you before, we don’t plan this early (laughing), but I think I will be on television, most probably commenting on the World Cup either from here or from the studio in India, I am not sure yet.

PJ: India did not perform well at the World Cup in Australia in 1992; what are their chances of winning this time, under similar conditions?

KD: I think the current Indian team is looking much better with newcomers and youngsters in the team who are shaping up quite well. It is a different team without established players like Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj, Sehwag or Harbhajan, as none of them have played in the past six months. If the team has won the Champion’s trophy despite not having all these good players, then it is safe to say they are ready. My concern is mainly about injuries not performance.

PJ: Amongst the newcomers in the current Indian team, do you see someone as a potential Tendulkar or Sehwag?

KD: I would never like to compare anyone with such great cricketers who have done service to the country; however Shikhar Dhawan has shown tremendous potential and talent, Ravindra Jadeja is another good one while Mahendra Singh Dhoni is the backbone of the team. Even

Ravichandran Ashwin has now gained more experience and is bowling better than he did when he played last time in Australia. I feel that the Indian team is well balanced, at this stage; I just hope they should not have any major injuries.

PJ: What is your opinion of DRS (Decision Review System)? Should it be mandatory to use in the World Cup, or restricted to just the umpires, or open to players?

KD: That is entirely up to ICC (International Cricket Council), if they feel that every player should feel comfortable with the decision, then why not? The technology is not always reliable and accurate, but if people are happy with the majority of the decisions, I do not see any problem with DRS. The Cricketing Committee is smart enough to decide whether DRS should be available to umpires or players or both, and whatever applies to the World Cup should be used throughout the year to ensure consistency. This system should not be limited to World Cups only; every tournament or Test series or One Day International and every cricket board who can afford it, should try to apply DRS. Consistency will ensure improvement.

PJ: You have been quoted saying that you have a strong belief that India will win

KD: If the World Cup was to take place today I could confidently say that India would have a 70% chance of winning, but 15 months is a long time and things could change. Lots of new players can come up in that time and circumstances can change.

PJ: What has led to such confidence in the Indian team?

KD: The young boys who have come into the Indian team have lifted the game. I think once you start winning and believing in yourself, it builds your confidence. Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Dhoni are all are outstanding players. The only weak link in the Indian team is their bowling. If they can maintain good bowling standards and play well as a team, they have more chances to win than any other team.

PJ: What about the Australian team? What do you think of their new talents like Ashton Agar?

KD: I have never seen such an outstanding performance as Agar’s first test! For someone to play that well on his debut is exceptional, and it was unfortunate that he could not make a century. I have no doubt that these young boys will come out and make their mark, as there is a lot of talent in the Australian team; but the question is whether they can use it at the right time. At this stage they do not look like a strong team as they are lacking in certain areas. I think they need guidance and leadership to prepare them for that win.

PJ: What do you think will help them improve their performance?

KD: Self-belief! You need a captain who takes ownership and starts playing from the front. The Australian captain is the most exciting cricketer in the world, however he seems to be going through a bad phase with health issues. If the captain is replaced, the team gets rattled. I hope the Australian captain overcomes his back problems and is able to develop the team well in advance. This is their territory and they know the conditions better than anyone else.

PJ: What is your opinion on the recent allegations that have affected the IPL (Indian Premier League)?

KD: The IPL has given a lot of fun, happiness and entertainment to the cricketing world, however the game has been marred with the greed of certain individuals. It is wrong and there is no need

The Cricketing Committee is smart enough to decide whether DRS should be available to umpires or players or both, and whatever applies to the World Cup should be used throughout the year, to ensure consistency

The Australian captain is the most exciting cricketer in the world, however he seems to be going through a bad phase with health issues

now or ever to do anything like that, and everyone cannot be tarred with the same brush. The ownership now lies on the teams, senior players and authorities to keep a strict eye on the players to ensure that no-one spoils the name of the game.

PJ: Speaking of games, how is your golf going?

KD: (Brightening up) Not too bad, I just don’t get enough time to play. I enjoy the game and I play every weekend, and that is why I am flying back so I do not miss my weekend game.

PJ: You could play here… Melbourne has some of the best golf courses in the world.

KD: It is winter here and not many people play golf in this weather. I have some other commitments as well and need to return; however I would love to be able to play here someday. Maybe next time!

PREETI JABBAL

p hotos: r avinder Singh Jabbal

Stardust on my sleeve

Indian Link Radio broadcaster PRIYANKA TATER takes us behind the scenes of some of her hit interviews

Salaam, namaste, sat sriyakaal Main hoon aapki dost aur host Priyanka Tater.

The line with which I kickstarted my very first show on Indian Link Radio, is the one I choose to begin this article with.

It’s been almost two years presenting on-air for Indian Link and the journey has been an absolute roller coaster. I bet you’d agree that radio can be cathartic for those listening as well as for those presenting. And one of the most appealing things about the voice without a face (that is, the radio presenter!) is that the voice gets the opportunity to speak the hearts and minds of the “common man” out there. The personalised touch of radio can never be replicated by any other form of media.

Now before you conclude that this piece is a thesis on the radio, let me get back on track… sorry, no soundtrack this time!

I like to keep my shows fun, fast and full of entertainment, with the right dose of information, discussions and interaction. Wearing your thinking caps is an option!

But when it’s an interview with anybody who is a ‘somebody’, I try and make sure that they put on that cap and don’t get away easy! We as presenters are a voice of our listeners and it is a given that we act as the bridge to get the message across from both ends of the spectrum.

So let me take you behind the scenes of some of my interviews.

Yes interviews can be tricky, especially when you have some controversies to tackle. Like the one that I did with Neville Roach, AO. Now this was about the annual Gandhi Oration at the UNSW 2013 which had Sir Michael Kirby make some controversial remarks about Mahatma Gandhi. And yes, I happened to question them. Mr. Roach, as patron of the Australia India Institute at UNSW, is one of the brains behind the annual function. What happened can be best described as a robust discussion and was certainly stimulating for all those tuning in.

As a newbie in Australia, I got a chance straight up to relive my career as an entertainment reporter on Indian television, on an early assignment for Indian Link Radio: an interview with Vidya Balan. She was here for

the Bollywood Film Festival. All the journos, including yours truly, waited patiently for our respective turn to interview India’s favourite actress. Since I had interviewed her earlier on various occasions in India, Vidya recognised me as soon as she walked in. Calling out to me, she started a conversation.

Alright, so I had an edge over others in room and I could sense that my interview would go off smooth! Take it from me, if the celeb is comfortable with the interviewer, half the job is done.

But it’s not always the celebrity who dictates the terms. More often than not I have found, the celeb’s PR and managers and assistants are the ones who lay the rules. Often they are the ones who decide when the interview starts and when it needs to finish, which question is “too personal”, where the interviewer is crossing the line and when they need to chip in to cut short an otherwise smooth flowing conversation.

It was no different this time with Vidya Balan’s manager. After the interview when I requested Vidya to record a message for Indian Link Radio (something along the lines of “Hello

Australia, this is Vidya Balan and you are listening to Indian Link Radio”). I was rudely stopped by her manager: it was time for photo ops, thank you. So Vidya, like an obedient child followed her manager and posed prettily for the shutterbugs, while my team from Indian Link Radio packed up quietly. And just as we were about to leave, I heard a voice. “Priyanka, you wanted an ID for your radio naa, let’s do it now”. That was the adorable Vidya Balan, winning our hearts with her humility. She most definitely challenges the norms both in reel and real life.

While you heard that interview on-air, I got to take a bit extra with me, some behind the scenes experiences and memories. Ah! These are some of the perks of the job!

And yet some interviews can be quite a challenge, just getting one at that. The powerhouse singer Sukhwinder Singh chose to wear his heart on his sleeve on-air and it felt like I was just chatting with a buddy, who had allowed me and the listeners a free tour into his mind and heart. But only God, Neelam Vasudevan (our Creative

Director), Ashish Chawla (our Marketing Manager in Melbourne) and myself, know how we skipped a few heartbeats when the singer just did not pick up the phone for a live-on-air interview! So it was me calling him, his manager calling, and then the promoter of his show, and then me trying again to call and repeatedly call the singer. The interview that was supposed to go on air at 7pm finally kicked off at 8pm. Those 60 minutes in between…. the less said of them, the better! As it turned out, our star singer happened to be taking a shower and you see, you don’t question stars or their idiosyncrasies. You just go with the flow!

With no pretensions of modesty, I’d admit that there is a lot of sweat and blood which goes into each show that we bring to you, our listeners, as you are the reason for our existence on radio. And I can vouch for myself and pretty much all my colleagues, that we love every bit of it. We love to chat with you on-air and off-air. We love it when you share your joys and we try our best to share your sorrows. We try to bring smiles to your faces

I like to keep my shows fun, fast and full of entertainment, with the right dose of information, discussions and interaction

That was the adorable Vidya Balan, winning our hearts with her humility. She most definitely challenges the norms both in reel and real life

and be your stressbusters.

Jaate jaate ek geet meri taraf se aap sun lena: Yun hi kat jaayega safar saath chalne se (Hum Hai Raahi Pyaar Ke) Toh filhaaal aapki dost aur host Priyanka Tater leti hai aapse ijaazat.

Stay tuned and enjoy the music and the masti! Catch me live every Tuesday and Thursday between 6pm to 9pm on your very own Indian Link Radio.

Indian Link can be heard wireless by subscription radio in Sydney and Melbourne, on the internet (indianlink.com.au) or download our free app from iTunes or the Android phone market place.

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Hot property!

Will a change in Federal Government impact the property market?

In my 40 years in this industry I have had firsthand experience of the property markets with its ups and downs, correction booms, busts, the recession of the 1990’s, and its subsequent corrections.

Housing prices on the rise

Most informed projectionists agree that the Australian property market is affected by elections. So, if you accept that the upcoming election will clear the haze that has been present since the last Federal election, you will also acknowledge that a new mode of confidence will return after 7 September. And how will this affect our property market?

Well, I believe that it will not make one scrap of difference, irrespective of who wins the election; so let me explain why.

Both population growth and employment have the potential to impact positively on the housing industry and Australia’s permanent population increased by around 400,000 last year.

ABS figures show that by 2020 it is projected that Australia’s population is going to increase to 25.6 million people, which is an increase of 900,000 people every 3 years.

The Planning Minister Mathew Guy said Melbourne’s population is still growing at the rate of 1,500 people a week, which is equal to the combined growth of Brisbane, Adelaide, Gold Coast,

Newcastle and Canberra.

Population increases equate to a strong demand for housing, which in turn means higher levels of construction and employment opportunities in the building industry and for property owners and investors. This also means price and rental growth. Accordingly, this is the time to take advantage of the next capital growth phrase.

House prices have risen over the past year and vacancy rates remain tight at under 2% in most major regions.

Real Estate Institute of Victoria spokesman Robert Larocca said, “On the current trajectory, the market has recovered... we are pretty much there now... and if we see another quarter like we have just seen, Melbourne will be at a new peak very soon”. Year on year house prices in Australia’s capital cities have jumped by 5.4% – more than twice the rate of inflation.

The median price of a house in Melbourne rose slightly in the June quarter with a 2.4% increase in seasonally adjusted terms to $562,000 from a revised $549,000 in the March quarter and as of writing this newsletter we are just a couple of bids off the Melbourne medium price range breaking the $600,000 price record.

While stock levels are nominally higher than what is typical for the winter period, the higher volume is coupled with very strong and stable clearance rates, indicating that underlying demand is more than sufficient to absorb current stock.

In fact, current trends indicate that clearance rates will increase even further as spring unfolds, with WBP Property Adviser Phil Manning tipping clearances rates will reach 80%. This presents an opportunity for 1st home buyers and investors to get into the market at the start of the next capital growth cycle.

Maybe it’s time to take another look at your financial plan

Consider this a wake-up call. MBIC with its associated business partners offer a range of services for your consideration

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• Property portfolio’s MBIC is holding an information evening on Wednesday 30th October 2013 at 7pm. Should you have any questions, or would like to seek further assistance on property, or investment options, please feel free to contact me.

Phone: 03 9813 8188

Mobile: 0417 483 355 e-mail: carlo@mbic.com.au

Carlo Ruscitti

Eat the election

Whether you’re voting Lib or Labor (or any other party), why not get into the mood with these over the top red and blue treats?

By LENA PEACOCK

While us Aussies don’t get quite as overexcited when it’s election time as our American friends do, we can take a leaf out of their book when it comes to election themed food. And if you’re completely over hearing anything about the election by now, why not view it as just another excuse to have a party involving lots of delicious food? And if red (Labor Party) or blue (Liberal Party) don’t quite float your boat, just use them as the colours of the Australian flag.

It’s a wrap: The Prime Minister is…

These are nice and easy to eat while watching the election on tv, and are so versatile, they can be stuffed full of any of your favourite fillings.

Tortillas

4 cups of flour

1 ¾ tsp salt

2 tsp baking powder

90g butter

1 ¼ cup of water (or a little more if needed)

Red food colouring

Blue food colouring

Place dry ingredients and butter into a bowl. Using your fingertips, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the pieces become the size of peas. Add water until it becomes a soft

dough. Separate dough into three balls. Work red food colouring into one of the balls and blue into another. Break each colour into about 4 dough balls. Roll dough balls into thin tortillas. Remove excess flour from each tortilla as much as possible. Cook in a nonstick pan on medium heat just until each side is done – this won’t take long if you rolled them out thinly. Roll with sandwich fillings, or a curry that doesn’t have too much liquid to it.

OTT election beverages

Although there are plenty of alcoholic versions, here’s a child friendly version, which will hopefully keep the election talk tempers down.

Cranberry juice

Non-alcoholic pina colada

Blue Gatorade

Simply combine ingredients in different layers to achieve desired effect.

Election jelly jiggle time

1 box of blue jelly

1 box of red jelly

1 can of sweetened condensed milk

Make jelly as per instructions on packet. Once red and blue layers have set, combine with chilled layer of condensed milk.

Sweet strawberry voters

1 punnet of ripe strawberries

1 bag of white chocolate melts/ or chips

1 cup of white sugar

1 tbsp of milk

1 tbsp of light corn syrup

Blue food colouring

Cooking paper

Wash and completely dry the strawberries. In a pot, simmer 10cm of water and place a glass or metal bowl on top of the pot to create a double boiler. Slowly melt half the bag of white chocolate. When they are melted, remove from heat, and add the second half of the chocolate, stirring until smooth. Once the white chocolate is completed melted, dip strawberries about 3/4 of the way in and then set on top cooking paper for chocolate to harden.

After you’ve dipped all the strawberries, in a separate bowl,

mix together the sugar, corn syrup and milk. Then add as much blue food colouring (two drops at a time) to get the right shade of blue you want. Spoon icing into a piping bag (or a

ziplock bag with a hole cut in it). Once chocolate has completely hardened, drizzle the icing back and forth on the strawberries until about half of the white chocolate area is covered.

M at r i M onials

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Hindu/ Arora parents settled in Sydney invite proposals for their beautiful daughter, 35-year-old, 5’6” who is divorced with no issues. She is a food scientist in the USA, planning to move to Australia, visiting in october. Seeking alliance from a welleducated and well to do punjabi job settled in Australia. please contact (m) 0426 718 962, or email: gnapril13@gmail.com

Seeking a suitable match. Currently pharmacist in UK, (but would prefer to settle down in Australia).

Born May 1979 (UK citizen), and is also an Australian permanent resident. 5’ 7”, slim, vegetarian, hindu punjabi khatri. Father - retired, mother - retired, one brother (all in UK) and one sister (married and settled in Australia). Contact: redvanilla101@hotmail.com

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

SeeKING BRIDeS

Seeking bride for 37-year-old, 5’11’’ tall Melbourne based hindu Agarwal boy. working in IT. Caste no bar. Contact with bio data and pic at: desidownunder01@gmail.com or call/ text: 0416 164 651.

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Seeking a suitable match, currently test analyst in UK, (but would prefer to settle down in Australia). Born May 1975 UK (citizen). Australia (permanent resident), 6ft. hindu punjabi khatri. Father - retired, mother - retired, two sisters (younger in UK) and older sister (married and settled in Australia).

Contact: redvanilla101@hotmail.com

TAROT

ARIES March 21 - April 19

This is a month of social indulgence and making time for special friends. Take care of your limbs, try not to pull any muscles. your love life is causing you some stress. Work will be demanding, but major changes will benefit you. you will be feeling a bit lethargic, but keep motivated towards a better work situation. Company cutbacks mean keeping on your toes. A pet may be feeling ill.

TAuRuS April 20 - May 20

you will be feeling very positive, as finances will be stable. Expect an increase in income from another source. Friends may request you for money, politely decline as the loan will not be returned. you may have some stomach issues, so change your diet, cut out wheat and try a gluten free diet. Family and communication will be important. Someone living in another country will cause concern, call them.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

It’s time for social activities, parties and entertaining. There may be a new job offer or promotion. Debts and bills need to be settled so keep your accounts updated. you may think of a short holiday soon. your lower back may cause some problems, maybe related to an old injury. Electric items may need attention. you are surrounded by white, guided by protection from a relative who has passed over.

cANcER June 21 - July 20

It’s a time of love and romance. Make a commitment to someone you have liked for some time now. Don’t rush into buying, despite wanting new things for your home. Work is positive with a greater interest in social activities and workshops. Expansion and stability is paramount, as well as future investments and property. your spouse may be unwell, give them rest and support.

LEo July 21 - Aug 22

you will have increased expenses, so do not overspend and control outgoings. Take care when using the stairs. you may think of taking up some creative activity like writing or painting, now is the time to let your creative juices run wild. Work will be steady; if looking for work, a recent meeting will have a positive outcome. Certain people have not communicated well with you which has been upsetting.

VIRGo Aug 23 - sep 22

you will be uneasy and restless, with disturbed sleeping patterns. Try to relax before bedtime. Be careful when dealing with relatives in difficult situations and discussions. Take care on the road, people may be careless. There is some confusion and doubt about the future. you are not feeling secure and stable. Financially you want to save more money, but are a bit disorganised and lazy. Look after an old relative who is ill.

predictions for SEPTEMBER 2013

By NANcy JADE ALThEA www.cosmick-aura.com

LIBRA sep 23 - oct 22

you may have a stressful month, with a chance of splitting up with a longtime close friend. you are thinking about how to increase your finances. Try and relax, take up meditation if very stressed, but you will get through. you overreact and get upset quickly, keep cool and calm. you will think about buying new clothes and changing your image, with a new hairstyle. Get involved in community social activities.

ScoRPIo oct 23 - nov 21

you will be feeling very energetic, charged and in control. you will make plans to start new ventures. your investment in stocks and shares are not giving good returns. Put your cash elsewhere, take advice. Relationships are stressful, ease the situation by spending quality time together. If in an exercise regime, keep persisting even if you are not that motivated. Try to lose weight and keep healthy.

SAGITTARIuS nov 22 - dec 21

This is a great month for career advancement and new possibilities. you will travel and look at the possibility of a venture overseas. Financially you are saving, and that feels good. Spice up your love life with role playing and fantasy in the bedroom, as Saggis get bored quickly. Speak to your partner, as you feel they are not taking the initiative. you may start a new venture in the future, so make plans.

cAPRIcoRN dec 22 - Jan 19

you will look at ways of increasing your income. you will feel healthy and relaxed, as health is good and you are trying to lose weight. This is a time for travelling and thinking of buying a house or maintaining your current home. There are exciting changes, so keep motivated. you tend to keep to yourself, as you have been betrayed lately by some good friends.

AquARIuS Jan 20 - feb 18

you will feel restless because of work pressure. Take care and get enough rest to handle demanding work projects. Take care when driving, especially if you drive a red car. News relating to a health test will be favourable. Spend time out with your family, and make time for yourself. you may be suffering from headaches, and stiffness around the neck. Someone abroad will be in touch.

PIScES feb 19 - March 20

you will take more of an interest in spirituality, meditation and chanting of some kind. you are stressed out, so relax your mind and body. Regular massages will be good. Relationships are on and off, decide what you really want. Keep finances in check and start saving as you have been overspending lately. Start exercising regularly, spend more time in the gym to keep your health in order.

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ThE BuZZ

I’m a clutter-breaker: John Abraham

John Abraham, whose latest production Madras Cafe was under attack from Tamil activists for allegedly showcasing lTTE cadres as terrorists, says he always wanted to break clutter with his films. And the courage to do so comes from his audience.

his debut production Vicky Donor dealt with the sensitive subject of sperm donation in a lighter vein, and Madras Cafe is based on the Sri lankan civil war. while one entertained, the latter is aimed at engaging.

“Very frankly, the courage to be a clutter-breaker comes from the audience. Vicky Donor was widely accepted. It really doesn’t matter if some political organisations object to my (new) film. It’s up to the audience to accept or reject the film,” John said.

Madras Cafe, which features John as a rAw agent and nargis Fakhri as a war correspondent, released this month. Theatre owners in Tamil nadu refrained from releasing either the hindi or the Tamil version fearing protests from Tamil activists.

Isn’t it a tough situation for a new producer like you?

“I am new to the business. But if I’ve to be a clutter-breaker, I may have to make political statements. As a filmmaker, I must be allowed to have my say in a democratic nation,” he said.

Farah hopes SRK will loosen the purse strings for Happy New Year Choreographer-director Farah Khan hopes the success of Chennai Express helps her next directorial venture Happy New Year, which she is making with Shah rukh Khan in the lead role.

SrK co-produced his Chennai Express, which had deepika padukone in the female lead, with UTV and the romantic comedy is reaping gold at the box office. Farah is interpreting the success of the film as good news for her movie because the Bollywood Badshah is producing her project as well.

hAPPy 50Th SRI!

It was party-time for Bollywood recently as Boney Kapoor threw a bash to celebrate his wife and actress Sridevi’s 50th birthday. The filmi revellers kept the party going well into the night. From rishi Kapoor to Shilpa Shetty and Sushmita Sen, filmdom’s best and brightest came out in full force to wish the birthday girl. hema Malini came with her daughter Esha and son-in-law Bharat Takhtani, while Juhi Chawla was seen with her husband Jay Mehta, and Anupam Kher was spotted too. Manoj Bajpayee and Vinod Khanna were also spotted along with rishi, who worked with her in successful films like Nagina and Chandni. Sridevi’s brother-in-law Anil Kapoor, who worked with her in hits like Mr India, too came for the do with his wife Sunita.

last year Sridevi hogged the limelight for her comeback film English Vinglish, in which she gave a credible performance. Before retiring in 1996 after marrying Boney Kapoor, she enjoyed success with hits like Sadma, Himmatwala, Chaalbaaz and Judaai

well, 50’s not a great age to start sizzling on the screen again, but Sri seems to have achieved this. Good on her!

“I am very happy at the success of Chennai Express. It has broken all records. Shah rukh is the hero and producer of my film. now he will come on the sets of my film filled with more energy and hopefully will shell out more money for my film. I am very happy,” Farah told reporters jokingly.

Farah is repeating the hit pair of SrKdeepika in Happy New Year. She worked with them in Om Shanti Om, which also marked deepika’s debut in hindi filmdom.

Farah also informed Happy New Year, which also stars Abhishek Bachchan, is set to go on floors next month.

“The schedule will start September 1st in dubai,” said Farah.

For laughing out loud!

Comedy grips Indian TV

If laughter is the best medicine, hindi general entertainment channels

Shahrukh khan on Comedy nightS...

(GECs) are using it to the hilt to woo audiences. They are serving comedies in new formats, using fresh storytelling techniques, funnier gags and laughing all the way to the bank with soaring Trps.

The demand for light-hearted shows can be estimated from the fact that Comedy Circus is in its 16th season and has also entered the limca Book of records for being the longest running reality comedy series.

If that is not enough, stand-up comedian Kapil Sharma’s show has caught the fancy of non-traditional GEC-viewers and it has been extended owing to its popularity, while SAB TV has dedicated itself to just comedy shows.

“The audience wants to laugh and this is why the trend of comedy shows is on a high on TV,” said Kapil, host and producer of Colors’ Comedy Nights With Kapil

“I’m the same Kapil who is doing comedy on Indian TV since many years. But the only difference is that I’m selling comedy in a new way and this is what people are enjoying. My comedy is not, my packaging is new,” Sharma told IAnS. his show boasts of top Bollywood celebrities and an audience full of youths as he focusses on issues which affect the common man.

It’s true that Shekhar Suman’s once cult show Movers & Shakers had an almost similar vein - he too picked up issues concerning the common man, but there’s something definitely new about Comedy Nights With Kapil.

TV also offers a platform in a big way to stand-up comedians - raju Srivastava, Bharti Singh, Sudesh lahiri, Krushna Abhishek and Sunil pal, to name just a few.

As far as heartwarming ‘dramedies’ are concerned, the 1980s and 1990s saw many: Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, Dekh Bhai Dekh, Hum Paanch, Flop Show, Shrimaan Shrimati, Zabaan Sambhalke, Office Office, Tu Tu Main Main, Yes Boss and Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai.

Cut to the 2000s. Shows like Khichdi,

with loads of fun and clean content, the comedy makes for a viable familyviewing experience.

Actor-producer J.d. Majethia of Khichdi fame believes the space for comedy shows has grown manifold over the years and it is pleasant to witness the boom in the number and kind of sitcoms and how they have entered the weekend programming.

The direction in which comedy is heading on the small screen is “perfect,” says producer Asit Modi, known for the much-loved Taarak Mehta... however, it is a difficult genre, and sustaining its charm

requires special skills.

“ we need actors and writers with special skills for comedy. Everyone can’t make people laugh. India lacks adequate creative talent for comedy. There’s scarcity, and so the scope of the genre is limited. Moreover, to do clean comedy for TV is even tougher,” Modi told IAnS. his Taarak Mehta... has been running successfully for over five years, and it has crossed the 1,200-episode mark.

“new ideas from new people always help. As long as you give freshness and variety, things will work,” explained Modi, who also added that the basic ingredients of a good show are “a good story” and “a promise to entertain the audience”.

Majethia too is all for keeping up with times.

he said, “ when we don’t wear the clothes that we used to wear years ago, or even live the life we used to back then, why must we be served the same content

who woRE IT BETTER?

on TV? new times demand new things”. perhaps, that’s what he is targeting through his new show, reportedly titled Bh Se Bhade, featuring ace comedian deven Bhojani.

People will identify with flawed hero in 24: Anil Kapoor Anil Kapoor is confident that the audiences will relate to his character in his debut TV production 24 and it will cement his place in the hearts of viewers because of its realism.

Anil plays Jai Singh rathod, the chief of anti-terrorist Unit of India, in 24.

“My character is such that people will identify with it. he is a common man, he is a hero but a flawed hero. he is like any other man. Every man today is trying to balance between his family and his professional commitments. he wants to keep both parties happy and that is tough,” the 56-year-old said at the launch of the show.

“My character loves his country, he is very patriotic and trying to save the future prime minister of the country, while on the other hand his family is also falling apart. So, I feel people will see my character as real and it will cement it’s place in their hearts and the show also,” added the actor known of hit movies Mr. India, Virasat.

Anil, who started his stint in the international cinema with Slumdog Millionaire, also featured in the eighth season of the American version of 24 he said that the Indian adaptation of the superhit American TV series by the same name has been adapted according to Indian sensibilities.

“The story has been successful all over the world and we have adapted it in such a manner that it could hit the sensibilities of the Indian audiences, so they like it,” said the actor.

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Being directed by Abhinay deo, the show will go on air in october on Colors TV and the first season will have 24 episodes.

It also stars Mandira Bedi and Tisca Chopra, while Anupam Kher, rishi Kapoor and Boman Irani will make cameo appearances.

Nicky Pradhan St.Marys NSW

Nicky wins a CD of the new film

Chennai Express

F.I.R., Malini Iyer, Kareena Kareena, Comedy Circus, The Great Indian Comedy Show, The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, Lapataganj and Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah cut through the clutter of saas-bahu melodrama to give TV viewers bouts of laughter.

Farah khan

anil kapoor

John abraham

cINE TALK

ExcEPTIoNAL PoLITIcAL ThRILLER

MADRAS C AF é

STARRING: John Abraham, nargis Fakhri and raashi Khanna

DIReCTOR: Shoojit Sircar

HHHHH

If only history could be changed by art. Cinema is a powerful medium for socio-political expression and revolution. Alas, in India, entertainment engages all other aspects of life on celluloid.

But seriously, it’s time now to get off the Chennai Express and get into Madras Cafe for a cup of the compelling. we need a reality check. And we need to regain a sense of history in Bollywood cinema which seems lost in the hoary art of streetside tamasha, glorified and aggrandised by cinematics that are perceived to be the elixir of pop culture.

It is time for mainstream entertainment to grow up. heightened realism is a means to achieve a synthesis of fantasy and history in this deftly scripted semi-fictional account of the processes leading to rajiv Gandhi’s tragic assassination in 1991.

The trenchant script, co-written by Somnath dey and Shubendu Bhattacharya, attempts and succeeds in building the same spiral of pseudohistory that oliver Stone built in JFK. I feel Indian politics, because of the country’s multi-culturism, is far more complex than its American or European counterpart. our cinema tends to dilute, simplify and trivialise history because we are much too wary of and lazy about getting involved.

not Shoojit Sircar. not Madras Cafe not John Abraham. what a courageous producer and actor John has proven himself to be! More of that later.

But first the plot.

let me say right away, that to understand the enormity of the story told in Madras Cafe, the audience ought to be familiar with the violent history of the Sri lankan civil war. But even if you don’t know that thousands of Tamilians died in the war of separatism, it is no sweat off the screenplay’s back.

Tucked away in the compelling creases of the plot is a terrific thriller about the assassination of a prime minister, who, let it be known, is not named in the film. nor are the lTTE (liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam), prabakaran and the other key players. But then this is India. here, secrecy and stealth are the founding

fathers of any political expose.

But you can’t escape the clutches of history’s tyranny. Sircar’s skilful weaving of fact and fiction leaves little room for scepticism. we know as we watch with helpless astonishment, that the ‘prime Minister’ will die, that the hero in this case won’t be able to save him.

Such are the heroes in real life. Unsung, sizes smaller than life. John Abraham skips into the part of the rAw agent Vikram Singh with an ease and comfort of a naturalborn secret agent. If James Bond or for that matter Kabir Khan’s Tiger were to have any truck with real-life politics, they would have been as believably brave and as credibly heroic as John in this film.

Every actor seems to take a cue from the vast resources of authenticity at their disposal. Specially riveting is prakash Belawade as John’s associate, who seems to drink hard to escape from the enormity of his compromise. Even nargis Fakhri, so self-consciously affected as ranbir Kapoor’s doomed soul-mate in Rockstar, nails her war correspondent’s part with her radiant presence. But I have a quibble with her character Jaya. why does Jaya speak in English while Vikram answers in hindi?

The linguistic puzzle never quite obstructs the devastating drama of war violence conspiracy and betrayal. These are dramatic points of political reckoning. And yet Sircar keeps the proceedings subdued and low-key. It’s a miracle how Sircar’s narrative voice never gets shrill even when the occasion is so ripe for over-statement.

Much of the credit for the tonal correctness of the narrative must go to

unadorned cinematography, which locks in on stunning visuals of violence and espionage-related action without falling into the mistake of making the frames look prettier than the grim situation that they are meant to capture.

Sircar’s editor Chandrashekhar prajapati imbues a documentary style to the footage. But the sense of cinematic expansiveness is retained in the way the camera moves through the characters’ restless lives, searching for positions of comfort in a situation laden with desperate anxiety.

There’s a whole lot of stifled drama in Madras Café. when a key character dies in the second-half, the tragedy is handled without fuss. John’s tight-lipped performance gives the film a sense of tragic grandeur. we constantly feel we are in a territory where drama has no place. The soundtrack is exceptionally honest. Shantanu Moitra’s background music underscores every scene without hammering in the emotions.

Madras Cafe is a dark, deep and satisfying film about the politics of

separatism. The film doesn’t take sides. If it is against anything, it is the culture of violence that nations often feed into neighbouring countries for their own gains. This film opens up the hitherto unexplored genre of political drama in Bollywood.

After Vicky Donor, we know Sircar is comfortable exploring innovative cinematic territory. here, he tells an edgy disturbing provocative but rational and fair-minded story that takes mainstream Bolywood cinema kicking and screaming into a new horizon.

This is cinema signifying a comingof-age with unforgettable visuals and drama and a rousing mature careerdefining performance by its leading man.

Get off the train, baby.

This is arguably the best political thriller that Bollywood has so far given us.

S UBHASH K. J HA

PNG: Problem Never Goes

The PM finds a dream solution to the asylum seekers’ issue

BY LP AYER

Ring ring.

Caller: Hello, is this the Prime Minister’s office?

PM’s Secretary: Yes, it is. Who is calling please?

Caller: This is Sultan Dhow Dinghy from Cisarua, currently the busiest coastal town in south Java.

Secretary: Excuse me, how did you get our number?

Caller: We picked it up from one of your many navy vessels that come here every day. In fact we have all the numbers of your Immigration, Customs and Emergency Services, senators, lawyers and many more.

Secretary: Ok…. why do you want to talk to our PM?

Caller: I can stop the boats and save him billions of dollars.

Secretary: Wait a minute... (doing a hurried check on the computer)

Did you say your name is Sultan Dhow? We will call you back in ten minutes. What is your number there?

Caller: 011 62 420 420. Click.

Secretary to colleagues: Guys, the leading people smuggler has made contact. Get the treasurer, immigration and defence ministers and the defence chiefs of Navy into the PM’s office asap. Ring ring.

PM: Sultan, this is the Australian PM: What can I do for you?

Sultan: Not much you can do for me, Prime Minister Sir. But I can save your job and billions of dollars.

THE BOATS

PM: Not even my treasurer can do that. How can you do that for me?

Sultan: By stopping the boats.

PM: Our Opposition has been saying this three-word slogan for months. But they are not sure now. By the way, our intelligence tells us you are the one sending the boats out.

Sultan: True. That’s why I can stop them. You can tweet to your hordes of followers that your tough stand did the trick, and win their votes.

PM: Brilliant, Sultan. But what’s in it for you?

Sultan: It’s simple. Every boat I send out makes me a million but costs you hundreds of millions. So for every boat I stop sending, you pay me two million. Imagine the savings. VIP jaws drop in unison. Buttons on calculators are tapped furiously. No word exchanged for a few minutes.

PM: Sultan, two million a boat a day, is a bit too much!

Sultan: Think of the savings I am making for you. Now that

we choose all the immigrants, you can abolish the Immigration Department. Customs too, since these arrivals bring in their own customs. Look at the ones we send – well-fed and in designer clothes. They won’t be a burden. Quite affluent. They pay 10K per head for such a short journey in a leaky boat, almost the price for a world cruise in a luxury liner.

PM: Yes but two million … Foreign Affairs Minister: Look, we have PNG to help us. We are scouring new islands too.

Sultan: Listen Sir, PNG stands for ‘Problem Never Goes’. Look at the work we do for you. We provide valuable training for your navy chaps calling them over here every other day. That’s the only exercise they get to do. Without that they may get into their old games, sexual harassment.

The Navy Chief in a very low tone: Mr PM Sir, let me give you a couple of bullet points for bargaining.

PM: I can do with cannon-size points. What have you got?

Navy Chief: Tell him we will undercut his business. We now go almost 10km close to their shore. We can pick up his cargo right from the port at half the price. We can even provide aid to build that port to world class standard. The journey will be risk free. We’ll take out full page ads in the papers there.

PM: Brilliant. Any other points?

Navy Chief: Our defence budget is severely cut. This discount offer will bring in millions. We can also pick the brains of the boat crew that will become idle.

PM: In what way?

Navy Chief: Many of their boats start sinking within minutes of setting off. Our Collins class subs can’t dive. We can ask their technical know-how to make our subs ‘hole in’ class.

PM: Excellent suggestions.

PM to Sultan: You there, Sultan? OK then. Two million bucks a boat.

Everybody cheers to a done deal. The applause goes on and on… and on.

The PM wakes to see he is in the midst of an election rally, having dozed off as a result of extreme exhaustion.

Sultan Dhow Dinghy… was but a dream.