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EDITORIAL INDIAN LINK

In a word: happening!

PUBLISHl:R Pawan Luthra l:DITOR

Rajni Anand Luthra ASSISTANT l:DITOR

Lena Peacock Sheryl Dixit Ml:LBOURNI: COORDINATOR

Preeti Jabbal CONTRIBUTORS Kritika Rao, Mohan Dhall, Lily Rose Robertson, Tarun Kapoor, ~rankey Gerard ~ernandes, Tasneem Zavery, LP Ayer, Mohan Thite, Shafeen Mustaq, Petra O'Neill, Priyadarshini Chidambaranathan, Avi Chandiok, Minnal Khona, Nancy Jade Althea, LP Ayer ADVl:RTISING MANAGl:R

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f 2013 had to be described in one word, it would have to be, 'happening'.

While most people will have 'hectic' at the top of their lists, 'happening' best describes the year gone past for us.

In Australian politics, a lot has happened in 2013. We bad three Prime :Ministers .in one year and yes, democracy proved co be ar ics very best. No blood was shed and those we chose to lead either changed those who were leading, or were changed themselves. Julia Gillard survived the 6rst leadership challenge, but lost to Kevin Rudd in the second. Mr Rudd became Australia's second Prime Minister in the year as a result.

Meanwhile, the opposition Coalition did not change much, including (as some said) d1eir views from d1e 1990s. So d1e Australian public who wanted things ro happen in government, elected Tony Abbott as Prime l'vlinister. And so we have our chird Prime Jviiniscer in one year!

Rudd bid an emotional adieu to politics in Parfa1menr, much to the joy of newlyelected Labor Opposition Leader Bill Shorten.

On the international from, the most happening thing was the surveillance

tactics of America and its aUies. While the targets have changed, it seems the concept of eavesdropping remains the same as during d1e Cold War. With Edward Snowden's tevelations, President Obama had to apologise to German Chancellor Angela Merkel and cw·rently; PM Abbott is going through a rough ride when it emerged that Australia had been snooping on phone calis in d1e higher echelons in Indonesia.

Positive news comes from the Middle East where some sanctions have been lifted from Iraq and were welcomed by its denizens and the reluct,'Ult international community, but the political situation in Afghanistan seems relatively unchanged.

Syria continues irs civil war and Egypt is experiencing political problems too.

In lndia, thougb not a lot happened politicaliy with the san1e argy bargy tactics between the rwo major political parties, an increase in inflation and a drop in Indian economic growth resulted in a review of lndia's credit raring. The most bappening thing in spor ts beyond the IPL march fixing scandal was the retirement of cricketing god Sach.in Tenclulkar.

Many natural clisasters have stirred up more debate about global warming and its effects. The typhoon in the Philippines, die earthquake in China and the ll ttarakhand flood disaster in India ,vere just some of the many even rs resulting in serious loss of life and property. Closet co home were d1e NSW bush fires that

created a haze of smoke over Sydney that lasted for days!

Man made events of destruction like tbe Kenya malJ shootings and the Syria chemical attack allegations shocked the world, while d1e US shutdown shook d1e world. la the local co=unity, a lot has been happening mo. While we had great opportunities to interact and prornote our culture at vaijous me/as and get-rogethers, d1e Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas io Sydney could have been a great happening, but ended up being a non-happening event. \Ve were graced with me presence of Shahrukh Khan who made die auclience wait for over 90 minutes before anything happened.

So wbat will 2014 bring? Will a repeat of the Rudd-G illard scenario occur in die Coalition Parry? Will PM Abborr's visit ro India develop I ndo-Oz relations? Will India choose a new government to its helm? Well, we'll just have to wait and see.

But from all of us at Indian Li11k, we wish you a very happy New Year and alJ the very best in 2014. And if you have co picl< a word to describe d1e corning year, start with relaxing, adventurous, prosperous, fun, family, positive change, healrny and happiness. Here'.s wishing that tl1ey all come true for yon.

Pawan Luthra is the 2012 Parliament of NSW Multicultural Journalist of the Year.

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e love tbe holidays, it's that time of the year when we th.ink of nothing more strenuous than decidiJ1g whether to go to the beach or the park, or what sausages to grill on the barbie.

It's a time for reminiscing too, and while most of us have had fun family times, there have. also been those hilarious and unique moments which are sometimes fondly remembered, sometimes best forgotten. A few of our contributors shared thei1· merry, mad, memorable moments with Tndia11 Link.

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Cracking ice at a Christmas party There are possibly too many to choose just o ne! There was the time our new puppies decided to sniff out all of the edible presents under the Christmas tree and devout the lot, and then there ru·e of course, the numerous stories associated with my famous (or infamous, depencling on how you fared after drinking it) punch that l use to make, and that's not even mentioning schoolies...

Bur, T dlink d1at my most memorable silly season srory by far is the time that my work colleagues and I decided ro try to ice-skate (witl1 our shoes) across a frozen fouotain in London after a Christmas party. The ice appeared to be a good foot in thickness, but we soon learnt tl1at our measurements were off by a considerable amount after the ice started tc> crack within seconds of LlS trying to slide across it. Needless to say we all ended up very cold that night, and rushed home to have hot barbs. It just goes to show that Sydneysiders don't really understand much about ice!

Lena Peacock

Man and his mushroom Being an international student in Srdney isn't easy, being away from family, bm recendy di e residence threw a party to celebrate the season. l was away, bur tl1e quiet, serious boyfriend got drunker than he has ever been. Some memorable texts appeared, like 'To much. Live you', wbid1 I assumed were declarations of love. Loud background music during a phone-call suggested there was dancing. If he and his friends got armmd to their original agenda, there was also a gan1e of cards. When the texting stopped, 1

assumed he had fallen asleep. Next morning, my phone buzzed witli his message, 'I want to die'.

Sometime during the evening, he'd found a huge stuffed mushroom. At one poinL his fri.ends thought he had gone to bed, but men d1ey saw a man sitting contemplatively in the rain , holding the mushroom. Like the nice friends rney are, tl1ey put him co bed; but me next thing he knew, he was out in the ball, wearing n o tl1ing but boxers, socks and his left shoe. Oh, and still holding the mushroom. His ke)7s \Vere inside tl1e house, and he ended up sleeping outside bis door before the coordinator let him in.

"I'rn gone one day, and tlus happens," I replied, after I nearly died laughing. "1 won't be drinking for a while," was his sober reply. lc's too funny to let go mough, so all week he's been receiving texts from me saying, "I'm so 11111.rhed up, why would you abandon me, I mush you so much". He's pleading that I scop; this is one holiday he wanes to forget.

Bm not if I can help it!

Kritika Rao

Plan paintballed!

Growing up outside of Queanbeyan, tl1e small ciry east of Canberra was socially isolating. The Ridgeway Estate where I lived had o nly about 100 residents, wim a single road leading into and out of the estate. The entry was off tl1e main road to the coast from Canberra - the King's Highway, which was notorious for irs fast moving traffic. At tl1e time, the single lane road was extremely poorly maintained.

As a young lad, my mates and l once ventured co the side of me highway having followed a dirt track mar led, on the other side, down ro the township of Queanbeyan.

The cars and trucks passing us were moving scarily quickly, and in our youthful indignance we discussed how to gain safe passage across the road.

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Ir was on a balmy night around Chrism1as tbar we came upon a plan co make the road safer, so we could complete our journey alo ng rbe dirr track and into the town. One full moon night around 1am, my mates and J took some tins of white paint and paint brushes left over from my house having been painted only months earlier, and headed for the main road. \Virh one person looking out for the gla.r e of clistaot headlights, we started painting stripes along tbe road. Long, wide, even strips of thick white paint with a space between each of them, over the tarmac and knobbly gravel, parallel to the edge. After about 20 minmes, we thought we had done well. Stripes right across bod, lanes! Shaking with laughter as we admired our work, we heard the d istant rumble of truck. The perfect time to resr our zebra crossing!

The truck rolled into sight and we stepped back from the highway, planning to move to the very edge as it goc closer. We assumed it would stop, so we could cross.

As it thundered closer, we crept forward.

The moonlight glistened off the paint on tbe road. Bur as the truck approached, we realised rbat it wasn't acmally slowing down.

Then ir rushed past and there was a squelchy sound as wet paint sprayed everywhere. Vt/e gazed at the back of tbe disappearing truck, and realised char it was leaving long white paint lines up die highway.

As we howled with laughter, a car c.'Ulle tbe other way and created long white lines down die orber side of the road.

It was the best C:bristmas holiday ever, even though that road was no safer co cross.

Every trip to town in the back of Dad's car caused a smile, as we passed ilie 'crossing'.

The paint took several years to fade .. ..

MohanDhall

Jvly friend Ju-a is one of four, and her parents own a laundrette jtL~t down the street from where I live. Her litde sister Sia used to sneak to open her presents before Christmas, have a look at tbem and dien put them back.

On Christmas Day she would pick up a present and say, "Ooooohl And this one's the fairy wand!" That's how everyone knew that she had sneaked a peek, but Sia never caught on that sbe had given herself away.

Lily Rose Robertson

Rocking on the road!

In rnyearly 20s, New Year's Eve in M.umbai had become Jess about going to Midnight Mass and brrrning up the 'Old Man,' and more about which party we would attend.

One memorable year, a group of us were all dressed up and ready to party. At 10:30pm, we fi t ourselves into four cars and headed off in a loud and noisy cavalcade.

There was an atmosphere of celebration and anticipation in the air as we beaded for Bandra Bandstand, about 20 minutes away, to a bash tl1rown by an upcoming actor. \XTe would get diere in plenty of ti.n1e, or so we though t.

Driving towards Bandra, a feeling of apprehension began to grow, because the main road was absolutely jam-packed witl1 craf6c. We crawled along, anxiously watching tl1e clock and unfairly recriminating with our friend for not driving fast enough.

At I I :50pm, we had come to a complete standstill, and tl1e aanosphere in die car

·was wound up and anxious. Drivers honked impatiently, their passengers argued, but tl1ere was just no way we could get our of tl.1ere. At 1 1:55pm, our driver friend decided cl.mt he'd had enough. He got out of the car, clambered out of tl1e bonnet, scood on tl1e roof Qt was his car, what clid we care?), and looking over the sea of cars, he announced char a traffic light had broken down in the clistance. He was just about to climb down when we heard tl1e fireworks, and the night sky lit up wirb a million Hares. This intrepid gu)~ the only teetotaller in the group, stood upright and yelled out at the top of his voice, "Happy New Year, everybody!" For a magical moment, iliere was silence. Then car doors started opening, people s carted getting out and wishing each other a happy new year. All around us was a scene of cheerful chaos. Some wannabes climbed onto the roofs of dieir cars, but the moment belonged to Oll.f friend and we were in tl1e midst of it, endiusiastically hugging strangers. A variety of music blared out of different car stereos, and we began to seriously party right tl1ere, surrounded by cars and people. It was a memorable and tmforgettable sight.

15 minutes later, an irate parry pooper police inspector got everyone into their cars, as traffic began moving. For our friend, tl.1e 9L1iec, well-mannered one, it was his 15 minutes of fame, and we spent the rest of the year recounting his escapade, much to his visible embarrassment and secret delight!

He's a devoted husband and father now, but tl.1e sight of him atop his car, wishing the world is still an unforgettable one.

Sheryl Oixit

and kin, we headed out to stay in a resort with close friends. 1 have no concept of travelling light, so the car boot was packed witl1 food to lase a week (in case we get hungry), clothing (1mpreclictable weatl.1.er, so gotta take ever)'tbing), golf clubs (hubby's sole conclition for coming along), lllptop (naturally), seven pair o f shoes (to match every outfit and a few extra just in case) and a Christmas tree (in true festive spirit).

On arriving at the resort, the porter inquired if ,ve were staying for a month, and despite all his hospitality grooming, his eyebrows shot up in amll5e111ent wben I sheepishly mentioned the duration of our stay. After a short rest, we pulled out rbe Christmas tree and in true celebratory spirit covered it with LED lights. Then we switched on tl1e lights, and ,vitl1 a loud noise, tl1e power went off. We called the reception, where the sleepy operator said he could nor send anyone to help as the staff had all gone home early to be witl1 family. one of us were talented enough to 6x power omages and despite the three dozen candles that I had carried along, it was still too bot to manage without electricity. A few irate phone calls later, the 'bordering on rnde' receptionist offered us anorber room on the opposite side of ilie resort. With no porters in sight we had to heave all die baggage, Christmas tree et al, to tbe newly allocated room. The.r e was not even a car park near that room so we could nor clxive around to it. I still shiver from tl1e memory of earring the seemingly endless pieces of luggage, bags and cartons between the two rooms. Three years later, rbe niggling pain in my lower back could well be attributed to rbar heavy, not hearty Christmas!

Preeti Jabbal Maybe we can aU learn :1 thing or l'WO from t!1ese writer~ ancJ remember to stay safe and om of trouble Ju.ring the silly season!

Heavy, not hearty!

It was 'Heave Ho!' instead of 'Ho! Ho! Ho!' the year we decided to celebrate Christmas in lnverloch with some friends.

The holidays are a tin1e ro rejuvenate and recover from a year of working hard and partying even harder. So witl1 kitl1

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Adelaide taxi drivers protest against violence TARUN KAPOOR reports on the November 16 Indian taxi drivers assault

Manbir Singh said . Maninder Jassal, tl1e victim's wife, is reluctant for him to keep

Ms Cloe Fox, Minister of Transport Services at t he Driver Safety Awareness Campaign

H

istory repeated itself in the fateful early hours of ovember 16, 2013, when mulitple fodian origin taxi drivers were assaulted by imoxicated men in separate incidents in Adelaide.

The previous taxi driver attacks occured in 2008 and 2009. This month, M.--inbic Singh, a 24-yearold taxi driver who hails from Punjab, India and currently residing at Torrence Vil.le in Adelaide, suffered a blow to his left eye while trying to protect his fellow taxi drivers stationed at Henley Beach square, who refused to take tl1e fare of five intoxicated passengers, in a taxi wh id1 could nor sear more than four people and one driver. As a result of the blow, Manbir has lost the vision in his left eye and has been left unable co work as a taxi driver.

Doctors who attended to Manbir have said that tl1e chances of recovering his vision are extremely low and he may now have to the injury for the rest of bis life.

According to Manbir, there were around l 0- 15 taxi drivers stationed at Henley Beach Square and a g roup of intoxicated men approached the fuse taxi driver in che queue, but were refused as

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they were heavily intoxicated and because the munber of passengers were more than tl1at taxi could carry. On being refused multiple rimes in the queue, the group reached Su.nit's taxi, and then they started tO punch and kick his ta.xi.

Concerned about the group's violent actions to his ta.xi, Sunit who had so far remained inside his taxi, got om co cry to pacify the group and stop the damage being inflicted upon his vehicle.

However, this d id not have the i.ntemed result, as instead he was pushed to tl1e ground and attacked. Seeing this incident, fellow taxi drivers including Manbir rnshed to stop the violent attad, upon Sunit. It was during th.is rime tbat Manbir was punched so violently tl1at he was blinded in the Ieft eye.

According to Jujhar Singh, an Indian origin taxi driver who was present during tl,e actack, the intoxicated group of five men were furtber joined by another five-six men, which futber fuelled the intensity of the altercation.

Several emergency messages were sent from ta.xi drivers co ask for help from operators of other ta.xis during dus, as well as calling che police. Police arrived 20-25 minutes later. By this rime,

Kuna!, another Indian taxi driver sustained injui:ies to bis throat.

Kuna.I has now recovered his voice after the attack and remrned to India. According to Jujhar Singh, Klll1al had experienced a sinular incident arotmd a year ago.

"No" was victim Manbir Singh's response to being asked if he thought the attacks were racially motivated. He also pointed our tl1at since d1egroup were heavily incoxicated, it wouldn't have mattered who was at the receiving end of their wratl1.

There are questions over tl1e treannem of this crime by Adelia.de police, who reportedly allowed some of the attackers to Aee on the night of the incident. \X'hen tbe Indian ta.xi drivers requested to lodge a formal complaint they were refused by tl1e officer on duty, w ho stated that he couldn't tal,e so many comp laints at d1ar tin1e, and they should report the incident in tbe morning to their local police station. As per a witness account, the ouly person whom the police arrested was one of the accused who was so heavily intoxicated that he could not move on.

However, tl1e comments that fuelled frustration amongst d1e ta.xi drivers was from the police

officer on duty, tl1at the only arrest made was due to their display of public disorderly behaviour, rather than because of tl1e incident which occured. This was despite the fact that tl1e incident left one person blind and aootl1er without speech in hospital. lo a separate incident, anomer Indian origin ta.xi driver, Inderjit Jassal was attacked at Port Adelaide. He was repeatedly punched in the face aod is now recovering. "I'm not going to drive taxis any more. Driving a bLxi at night is very dangerous," Inderjit

driving. "I would say don't touch the ta.xi again, for (the) fam.ily's sake". In anotl1er incident, police have charged a man for allegedly robbing a taxi driver at kiufepoinc at suburban The Barron last Thursday 21 November, 2013.

In the absence of a fonnal association co represem them, victimised local Indian taxi drivers called for a 'Driver Safety Awareness Campaign' which was held on November 26. They walked from Elders Park to Parliamem in order ro draw the attention of the SJ\ government to die safety of ta.xi drivers in general.

The protest bad the participation from around I 00 taxi drivers from the Indian co mmuni ty who marched peacefully and presented their concerns to the Minister of Transport Services, Ms Cloe Fox. Ms Fox promised to en.force reforms to support me safety of taxi drivers and subsidise driver safety shields. However, on being questioned about the police behaviour in the recent attad<s, as well as the lack of Taxi Council su pport, she said she was not )'et aware o f the facts and would investigate.

Will the law makers really take action this rime to support taxi drivers? lf taxi drivers take us home safely, do they not have the right to go home safely coo?

DECEMBER 2013 9

COMMUNITYSCENE

Tidy up and cook-off by CIISA A clean up and a curry picnic were two events that were enjoyed by members of Club India be Youth C lub of Club India International SA Inc. (CIISA) undertook a beach cleaning drive at the Grange Jetty along the Adelaide West coastline recently. This was the second major event of the yomb wing since its tbe inception.

On a bright and sunny day aided by a cool, gentle breeze, 11 enthusiastic youngsters tmder the leadership of Allwyn D'Souza, Youth Coordinator of CUSA covered a long stretch across tl1e coastline of Grange beach .in a drive to pick up litte(, including plastic and tin cans, and other debris.

Wearing protective gloves the group scoured the appointed region of the beach in their drive to pick up litter, an initiative that was well received and acknowledged by some patrons going about their day on Grange beach.

The event began with 'get to know you' games, followi ng which

T

me youngi,ters were divided into two teams. As the event progressed, to make for a light and humorous afternoon, each individual was addressed as their favourite item of food, and witl1 names like 'sushi', 'butter chicken' and 'pizza' to name a few, the afternoon gained momenuun ver)' quickly. A series of games like cricket, dodge ball, and short sprints had also been organised for the enthusiastic youngsters.

Ltmcb was hot 'Fish 'n' Chips from the local deli, organised

by Nick Fernandes, Social Coordinator. The games then continued, and refreshments and lollies saw an end to the day; Each of the youngsters then parricipatd in a short survey, expressing their views on whether they would like to be involved in sim.ilru: activities in the future.

It was an enjoyable event for the youngsters - Alyse, Nathan

and Shireen De Souza,

icole

Fer□andes,Jenny Morais, Chris

Fernandes, Shane Paul, Karrell Vaz, Samson Fernandes and Allen Anthony John, who were all thanked for their involvement in this Youth Club event.

Club India International SA Inc. also organised tlicir annual curry picnic cum sports day at the Hazelwood Park recently, which was attended by State dignities including Soutl1 Australia's Lieuteua□r Governor, Hieu Van Le; Mayor of the City of Charles Sturt, Mayor Kirsten Alexander; and senior officials from the Department of lmmigration.

The event was well attended by senior members of tl1e Club, as well as recenc nligrants who have now ruade Ausu·alia their home. i\lfainvell Taylor, President of CIISA welcomed tlie gathering.

Mr Van Le, Chairman of tl1e South Australian Multicul tural

and Etlinic Affairs Comnlission (SAMEAC), rook an interest in undersrauding the intdcacies of various dishes cooked mat had their origins in India, as well as me annual cook-off show event.

While the children were entertained witl1 sporting activities,

the adults joined in playing other games followed by a round of rug of war and a treasure hunt.

The curry picnic is an annual affair organised by CllSA at which families attempt to cook the best Indian food wllich is later shared witl1 guests attending.

Frankey Gerard Fernandes

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10 DECEMBER 2013

NANDA KRISHNAMOORTHY : 0405 493 732

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Spiritual Master H. H. Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj Honored At 33rd Annual Meeting And Banquet Of Indian American Medical Association Of Illinois (Chicago, IL) His Holiness SantRajinder Singh JiMaharaj was the honored guest and speaker at the Indian American Medical Association of Illinois' (IAMA) 33rd Annual Meeting and Banquet on Friday, November 16, 2013 at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, and Congressman George Foster commended the Association for their commitment to the community and the quality of health care services they are providing.

The internationally recognized spiritual Master of meditation on the inner Light and Soundwas introduced with a tribute to his many achievements as president of the Human Unity Conference, head of Science of Spirituality, and best-selling author of books translated into over fifty languages including Meditation as Medication for the Soul, Inner and Outer Peace through Meditation, Empowering Your Soul through Meditation, and Spark of the Divine.

Not only has H. H. SantRajinder Singh JiMaharaj presented the benefits of meditation to medical practitioners worldwide-including the National Institute of Health, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, and universities such as Harvard University, University of California, Berkeley, IIT Madras (Chennai), IIT Delhi, and IIT Mumbai-but many doctors have also learned the meditation technique from him and use it regularly with their patients as an invaluable healing modality.

In his address, H. H. SantRajinder Singh JiMaharaj recognized the mission of the IAMA comprised of Illinois physicians of Indian origin "committed to professional excellence in quality patient care, education, and community healthcare." He congratulated the doc-

tors who work tirelessly to assist their communities toward achieving impeccable health.

He noted that it is a universal truth that the health of our body and mind depend unequivocally on our spiritual health. He spoke on the importance of meditation, citing national journals that have published research into the physical, mental, and emotional advantages of meditation. These benefits, the spiritual Master explained, are merely byproducts of the meditation practice. The true His Holiness SantRajinder Singh JiMaharaj with President Dr. Raj Arora, Dr. Annita John, purpose of meditation is and Dr. BaluNatarajan. to experience the reality of our true selves, who we really are at the level of cal trauma he said, but through meditation, we can our soul. experience this reality ourselves. He then explained H. H. SantRajinder Singh JiMaharaj then spoke the simple process of Jyoti meditation- meditation on about research into near-death experiences by medi- the inner Light-and put the audience of hundreds of cal doctors Raymond Moody and Melvin Morris who doctors and medical practitioners into meditation. Folinvestigated this phenomenon and concluded that lowing this uplifting discourse, His Holiness SantRaspirit or soul exists beyond the human body, mind, and jinder Singh JiMaharaj was presented with an honoremotions. The spiritual Master stated that vistas of in- ary plaque by the IAMA. ner light, beauty, and music, as well as the Power that brought all creation together, exist within each and every one of us. We do not have to undergo physi-

For more information about His Holiness SantRajinder Singh JiMaharajand the Science of Spirituality, www.sos.org/australia

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DECEMBER 2013 11

SPECIALREPORT

SPECIAL REPORT Meagre attendance and few program sessions with mass appeal mar diaspora event

.f lt

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BY

PAWAN LUTHRA

f the mission statement for the Regional Pravasi Bharitya D iwas (Overseas Indians Day) .in Sydney was "Connecting for a Shared Future - the Indian Diaspora, India and the Paci fie," sadly, the event does not appear to have achieved its objective, Poor attendance, unrealistic costing, a skew cowards business in the program sessions, and less than satisfactory execution have been cited as facrors.

With more than 800,000 Indian diaspora in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Island nations, Day One on November 10 saw less than 150 people in attendance. Numbers p icked up o n Day Two to about 350, but dwindled to about 200 on the last day.

The Sydney Convention Centre with iL~ capacity of over 2,000 looked strangely desolate as key note speakers, some of them highly accomplished in their fields, made their addresses.

I

The concept of the Regional PBD Regional PBDs are organised by the Indian Governmem's :rvUnistry of Overseas Affairs to provide a platform for the Indian community in a selected region of the world to contribute to the relationship between the countries of their region and India. Last year, the evenr was held at Port of Spain, Mauritius.

Earlier this year, there was much excitemem in Australia's Indian community as Sydney was picked to host the convention. An Indian High Commission communique said it expected "l ,000 participants from within Australia and from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Fiji, New :Zealand, PNG, Hong Kong, Phillippines and the Pacific Island s". The P remier of NS\XI Barry O'Farrell showed the san1e enthusiasm, declaring d1at he foresaw "an

12 DECEMBER 2013

estimated $2.8 million worth of economic activity for SW"'.

In the end, no more than 350 delegates attended, of whom 140 were invited speakers. Most attendees were local Sydney-siders, wid1 only a smattering from other stares, predominantly Victoria.

The overseas delegates made up a negLigible number.

PBD Sydney: Highlights At the very outset, it must be said that hosting d1e seventh Pravasi Bhartiya Divas in Australia presemed a great opportunity for the Indians in the region to connect with the motherland and w-ith each other. Attendee Raj Natarajan, past UlJ\ President, pointed our, " PBD Sydney was a perfect opportunity to present issues of concern in the local diaspora to the policy makers both in Australia and India, because we had the ears and eyes of rhe highest office in States, the Premiers and some of the highest offices at the Federal level like the lmmig:ration and Tracie Ministers".

A significanr platform ,vas created by AustraLia's nomination as the venue for the 2013 Regional PBD. As well, attendees were afforded an excellent opportwi.iry to listen to speakers with some great stories to tell. The passionate and emotional speech by the former Prime 1'Unister of Fiji, Mahendra Pal Chaudhry, particularly stood out. E qually well presented was the warm welcome by NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell who hosted the delegates at Goven:unent House, speeches by the Premier of South Australia Jay Wetl1erill and the Depmy Premier of Queensland Jeff Sweeney, and the warm and friendly Pallavi Sharda, Australia's own Bollywood celebrity. Well-known recluse and cricket legend Steve Waugh n1rned up as well, to share his experiences in India.

From cbe Federal level, tbe Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Scott Morrison and the Minister for Trad e and lnvesm1ent Andrew Robb found their way to the PBD even as their new government

The Languages sessio n: One of the few t hat appealed sat its first week in Parliamem.

Two of the plenary sessions, one on languages and the other on media, went down particularly well. Never has the PBD discussed the power of Indian languages in the Indian diaspora; seeing tlus on the program was indeed heartening, and sets a positive prececlem for fonue PBDs. The session on media was efficiendy handled by moderator Suslu Das as she led die participants through a strucnu:ed session yet allowed flexibility in the various discussion poims.

F lying in t\vo accomplished performance artists such as santo()I' maestro Sluv Ktm1ar Sharma and acclaimed vocalist 1-feeta Pandit also added a deeper dimension to the cultural engagement of the PBD. Bodi artists tbrilled rhe crowd, however small, at their performances.

Perhaps most successfully, the convention turned out to be a great opporn11i.ity for delegates to network with community members from other states and nacions. Faces were put to names

already known, as people got to know each other.

So what went wrong?

The Ch ief Guest, India's ~'1inister for Overseas Affairs, Vayalar Ravi looked stunned as he stood at the dais to address the nearly empty Sydney Convention Centre in bis opening speech. He fumbled his way tluough his address, which he attributed, somewhat strangely, to 'poor stage lighting'. Speaking to fodian Linkon the last day, die Minister did commeut on the poor turnout, citing "the vast distances people would have had to travel, which would have added to the cost of attendance".

Unfornmately, more things went wrong than right for this much-an ticipated event.

For starters, the organisers chose an overly bureaucratised 'top-heavy' approach, about which much comment has alread)' appeared in community media.

Decisions were made out of Canberra, not exactly the greatest h Ltb of connectiv ity amongst the local India population in

Australia. Sydney and Melbourne seem to have more than a third of the targeted audiences of the PBD, and it is input from these concerned pmuasis which should have been sought Perhaps the eligibility for membership in the managing committee should bave been a non-GPS ddve to centres of influence within the local Indian commmi.it)', say Harris Park in Sydney. This would have verified the candidates' credentials in terms of bow connected they are to the bulk of the Indian community! (Take for instance, Senator Lisa Singh, who sat on the organising committee. While she is deservedly admired for making it to ParLiament through sheer dint of hard work, her indepth knowledge of the Indian communiLJ here is questionable).

Jokes aside, the organisers simply could nor excite tbe community about tl1e PBD. Perhaps the marketing could have been better, to reach a wider section of the targeted audience.

Instead, thousands of dollars

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una ''

Perhaps most successfully, the convention turned out to be a great opportunity for delegates to network with community members from other states and nations

'' Po. \e. e,\ue

Oot1

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NSW Premier Barry O 'Forre/1 with delegates

we.r e spent on the venue and on brochures distributed at d1e even t.

Sydney resident Rajesh Kumar wcoce o n Tndian Link's Facebook page, "There was absolutely no marketing. If people (or o rgan isation s) want to selJ something, they first have to spend money to spread d1e word.

Generally our people have th is habiL in India of relying on the population, d1e quantiry but not the quali ty; the lndian government has to realise that the quantity sruff with no quality can work

only in Inclia and not outside India".

The figure o f registered delegates bandied about was 600; however even at the peak of the conference on Day Two, it was obvious d1at there were less than 350 people in attendance. When questioned about chis, organisers responded that chere bar/ been 600 registrations, and perhaps people chose not to attend. Ha.rd to believe, as there are no t coo many people who woul d forfeit the attendance fees of $425.

The cost of S425 per delegate was deemed extreme even by those who did attend. ot only was this amount prohibitive to most in Sydney, intersrnte and overseas visitors would have had to add cravel and accommodation fares as welJ. '1 found it very pricey," said on e Sydney residen t who chose nor co attend. "There seems to be licde idea of the income and lifescyle pressures of the local Indian community".

He added laughingly that one organising committee member tried to entice him with die attrac tion of food: two grand lunches and two dinners, besides quali ry speakers at the sessions.

(Reporting o n the event in Indian magazine Ken1/o Todq;•, delegate Treassa Joseph commented that most o f tbe attendees were members of tl,e Indian community who were closely connected co the Indian High Commission or organisations that were already engaged in bilateral relations witb India).

The d ecision co run die event over weekdays was anod1ec point of contention. This meam d1at

DECEMBER 2013 13

COVERSTORY

SPECIAL REPORT

Former Fiji PM Mahendra Choudhary was a popular speaker

Saba Zaidi Abdi with Steve Waugh

Manpreet Singh with Minister Vyalar Ravi

many could not attend due to work commitments. Much of the lndian d iaspora works in an employed category, and for most to take two out of their all.o cated 20 annual leave days to attend a conference, or take unpaid leave, is difficult. The weekday choice is more conducive co a business program where attendance suits the bLtsiness community.

The heavy focus on business programs was robustly criticised by most o f those attending.

Sources within the organising committee p ointed c:be finger at Canberra's micro management of tl1e whole affair. W ith just a couple of individuals who had the ear of tlie High Commissioner Biren Nanda, tl1ere definitely was a strong bias cowards business, with less emphasis orr issues which concern and connect tlie local diaspora with Lidia and within the region. Business sessions of opportunities in services, lmsirress opporttm.iries in resources, business opportunities in primary commodities, business opporcun.iries in infrastructure etc. would have all been well appreciated in an Tndo-Australian business forum, not i.n what was

an essenrially a forum for the diaspora co connect.

Saba Zaidi Abidi, the founder of Vision Asia network services was outspoken in her views.

"The Australia India Business Council was heavily involved irr tlie planning and execmion of tlie PBD event a.lo ng with tlie Indian High Commiss.ion and dominated most of tlie sessions," she wrote in a Jeerer to Indian Llnk. ·'This makes one wonder as to wbatwas tl1e objective o f this whole exercise? If the pmpose of the PBD was to promote B2B .relationships between governments, then yes, it did achieve that objectively to some extent. But if it was abouc people coming together co celebrate tlieir common heritage, share e.'-periences and bring to focus tlieir currenr problems and issues, and highlight the needs of tlie pravasi community at large, it fell short of delivering that. There was hardly any P2P or people-topeople contact".

Some break-out sessions saw no more than 20-30 people attending.

On one occasion, an organising committee member was seen imploring attendees to return to

14 DECEMBER 2013

the auditorium, even as tl1ey stood o utside lamenring the lack of relevance. l\.fost sessions ran !are - even tl1e cultural performances.

Well-known sa11/001·anist Shiv Kumar Sharma could not help commenting chat Indian Standard Time seemed ro have crossed international boundaries, as he pariemly waited to start his show as part of the opening day en tertainmem. Members of the event management company tliat helped put tlie conference together were heard muttering in frustration as tlie organisers rook rime to get the event underway.

A note to organisers It was clear to all d10se who attended that while it was an excellent opportunity to network, PBD Sydney could perhaps have been better thought throngh.

A press release by tl1e organisers sent om upon the conclusion o f the conference described it as "a very successful firs t-ever Regional Pravasi Bhataciya Divas held in Sydney". They can continue to l.ive with tl1e delusion that it was "very successful," or consid er some of the following as suggestions. ff they are not already doing such analyses, the community out there definitely is, and these suggestions are compiled from tliem.

The costing should have been reconsidered. Daily pricing or separate pricing for attending relevant forums would probably have brought in more attendance.

A more SLLitable -vetme co uld have kept the prices down. Would a weekend PBD have been better?

A solid publicity plan should have been put in place, much in advance, to ensure the message of the PBD got through clearly to the community al .large. A more transparent way of working and organising tl1e conference ought to have been adopted, rather than isolated decisions taken on tl1e advice of a few who are largely not co nnected with the local community. Other mi.nor plans to create goodwill in tlie community could have been i mp lemented, such as free entry to attend the cultural performances (rather tlian have the maestros perform to empty halls).

The implications of Sydney PBD The message chat the Indian government will probably get om of the Sydney PBD, is that the Indian commttniry in Australia (and the region) is too small, and/ or too uninterested, for tl1em co bod1er with.

Deplorably, this is far from the truth. The Indian community is strong and fuJly capable

o f making a difference, as mainstream politicians in Australia have already found o ut.

Their strengtl1, and this is not just in their numbers, but also in terms of tlieir in fluence, is set to grow tn the very near fumre.

The Indian government has been slow in engaging witli Australia, and a strong Sydn ey PBD would have indicated to them that the diaspora here could be relied upo n to help them cake the relationship furtlier. Regrettabl)~ this oppo rtunity was missed.

On the other hand, the message tl1ar the Australian government will get our of the event, is that the organising committee could not engage the Indian community h ere. Both sides of tlie political divide are constantly on tl1e lookout for strong Indian figures that they can count on to reach tl1e community, a vi.able vote1)a11.k. Perhaps the organisers were not those tliat the local diaspora .look to as die true leaders of the community?

And finally, the message that the T.ndian community is going ro take away from tl1e Sydney PBD is this: the powers-that-be within tl1e Indian government representatives here, as we.LI as tl1ose within tl1e community, need to be bener in-couch with the community they serve, o r hope to represent. ■

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CORRESPONDENCE PBD Sydney: An opportunity lost It is heartening to know that the Indian Government has a separate ministry for overseas Indians and also make.5 an enormous effort co recognise the contriburion of the overseas Indians co their motherland India, by conducting Pravasi Bharatiya D iwas (PBD) every year. The regional meet of PBD held in Sydney on 10, 11 and 12 November presented a great opportunity to address some of the major problems facing people of Indian origin living in Australia.

We always talk about three Cs which bind Australia and India: Cnrry, Cricket and Commonwealth, but most recently anod1er C bas been added which is commerce. Yes, the PBD platform is used co promote commerce between India and oche.r countries which have beneficed from l nclian migration like Australia. Most of che Indian migration, especially to western nations inclurung Australia is through skilled migration, bringing doctors, engineers, IT professionals, accountants and business brains. Australians of Indian bad:ground are generally well educated and belong to the cop economic strata of society and hence they are not only able to look after themselves but also look after and help rusadvamaged people in their community.

The disadvantaged people in our community are chose people with Indian passports who travel to dus country like the senior citizens who come co live with d1eir children, lnruan international studems, and Indian workers on short term work visas who work in farms etc. These disadvantaged people are doing it tough and they need the help of the Indian High Commission/Consulates in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Bi:isbane, Adelaide and Perth. However, such heJp can be delivered onJy with d1e help of the host i.e., State and Federal Governments of Australia. It is in tl1is context that tl1e A L1stralian citizens of Indian heritage can play the role of ambassadors of India in Australia and have the power to lobby with politicians to make those policy changes necessary co make the life of Indian seniors/ smdents/workers a bit easier and happier.

PBD Srdney presemed a perfect oppormniry to make those points with d1e policy makers because they had the ears and eyes of the highest o ffice in States, d1e Premiers and some of tbe highest offices at the Federal Jevel like the Immigration and Trade ministers. U nfortunately no such attempt seems to have been made co lobby for change in policies whicb affect Indian seniors/ smdems/ wo.rkers.

For example, the Ioruan seniors do not have Medicare cover, travel concessions or seniors' card facilitie.5, which results in a huge drain on chose young immigrants who are trying to find their feet I nd ian international students are being used as cash cows. Indian workers who are on work visas are being exploited by their employers in farms and facmries. What d id PBD, Sydney do to address these problems? I am afraid nothing, unless I am proved wrong.

While there were some lughlighrs like NSW & SA Premiers' and Immigration & Trade Ministers' speeches, Steve Waugh's address and the Pa!Lwi Sharada imervie,v, 1 think the following shortcomings were too many ro ignore: • To start with the high registration fee d iscouraged many interested non- resideor lnruans to participate.

• The registration fee could have been waived for Indian seniors, students and workers to ensure their participation, thus providing an opportunity to tell their stories and seek

INDIAN LINK

solntions co their problems.

• Publicity was totally lacking and 90'1/,, of the non-resident Indians in Srdney, I spoke to were completely una,vare of PBD Sydney.

• J\Jthough there were many eminent speakers, it was evident that merit was not the criteria for selection of most speakers. le was apparent that personal preferences and favours played a part in the selection.

• T found very little scope for interaction between the Indian Government delegates, including d1e l'vfiniscer for Overseas Indians, who mostly kept to themselves and the participating non-resident Indian delegates, wid1 exception of a privileged few.

• PBD Sydney was a good idea bm poorly executed.

Raj Natarajan

Oz/11dTV Sydney

Disappointing turnout I think the program outline and d1e calibre o f speakers at the Sydney PBD were fantastic, especially at the breakout sessions. Pt Shiv Kumar Sharn-ia's santoor recital and me exhibition on Indian migration m Australia were my personal highlights, and also the fact that I met a loc of people for d1e first time - people I bad previously only heard of or known of, but had never met in person. It was disappointing to see the low turnout though - the large venue seemed to swallow up tbe sruall-ish audience quite easil)c Also, having attended the PBD at Kocbi in January d1is year, I had e>.7Jecced the RPBD m have a much stronger focus on local community concerns, people's issues and diaspora matters d1an ic did - tl1e Sydney convention seemed to focus more on business instead. That said, perhaps the objective of holding tl1e RPBD was not cleacly understood by most of the attendees, and only the organisers can tell us if they were able to achieve what they set out co. All in all though, icwas a good experience and a great networking opportunity for those who accended.

Manpreet K Singh Ei::emtiue Protfucer Punjabi Program SBSRadio

828, not P2P After months of preparation, pooling of enor mous resources and publicity hype, o ne was expecting PBD to be a hnge celebration of people of lodian origin in the Oceanic region. As it mrned out it did attract some politicians, a few businesses, the education sector and large Indian delegations exploring business opportunities with Australia. 1,000 delegates were expected ro attend d1e PBD at the prestigious location of Darling Harbour Convention. Centre, but only 500 plus enrolled, om of which over l/3 were speakers or i nvitees. The plenary sessions were attended by not more than 250 people at any given rime in a ball that had around 3,000 capacity. The show went on but d1e auruence was nussing.

It was a well organised event but lacked lustre. AIBC was heavily involved in the planning and execution of the event along with the Indian High Commission and dominated most of d1e sessions.

This makes one wonder as to what was the objective of this whole exercise? If the pmpose of the PED was co promote B2B business and bi.lateral relationships between governments, then yes, it did achieve d1at objectively to

some extent. But if it was about peopJe coming together m celebrate d1eir common heritage, share experiences and bring to focus their curreor problems, issues and h ighlight the needs of me Pravasi community at large, it fell short of delivering d1ar..

There was hardly any P2P, or people to people contact.

So why did it fail co attract me community? Was it the high cost of $350 [early bird discoumJ for a 3-day event fair?

Or because it was scheduled o n working days? Perhaps tbe programme Jacked lustre and failed to attract interest an1ongst the community at large. Maybe it was a combination of all the above.

Why wete there no popular events scheduled, open co tl1e public free of cost? If the Government of NSW could host AR Rehman in a free concert for the lnruan community, why can't the Government of lndia do die same for its pra11C1sis?

Renowned artists like Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma and Meeta Panrut were invited co PBD but d1e concert was open only to the delegates and they performed to an almost empty hall.

L1 fact Meeta Pandit commented, ''Where is the audience - is there a cricket match taking place)" Some important sectors like medicine and health, tourism and sports were missing from d1e 3-day agenda.

As for the round table discussion on ·Power of Media in the Asian Century,' wluch was well chaired by Sustti Das of The Age, which I was invited co be a panellist on, we had a robust ruscussion on: • Role of media in both countries in reporting Violence ag;unst Indian Students in 2010 and lessons learnt from it.

• W ill tl1e Indian media play a dominate role in shaping the world opinion on the global stage like the west did in the last century with the power of its economy and the magnetism of its culture? Will we see an Asian Ruperr Murdoch emerge?

• Thirdly, in the next 20, 30, 40 years, where are we likely to turn for authoritative, accurate and balanced news coverage? The .influence and uses of new merua - whether it's the social media such as Twitter, Facebook etc. or on.line news, analysis and blogging, as well as on.line TV /radio.

• The n.eed to have an NRl TV channel which connects the Indian diaspora globally and focuses more on issues and concerns for non-resident Indian and 2"" and 3"1 generation Indians. (Ministet Ravi who also attended the sessions agreed to offer supp()rt co any such initiative).

• A critique of t he local print media which has predominantly become an advertisement directory. (The fact that no local prim media was invited co be on the panel was pointed out as they could not contribute to the discussion).

• While we enjoyed meeting and exchanging ideas with many interesting people from od1er cities and countries, we missed the local participation.

In his concluding remarks CGI Mr Anm Goel commented chat d1e two useful recommendation that emerged from the PBD deliberations were: • Need to have O ld Age Care facilities for ageing Pmvasis.

• Need to have a NRI TV channel co connect the Indian diaspora globally.

Saba Z-aidiAbdi Managing mrector Nuvera Medin.

DECEMBER 2013 15

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PEOPLE

osa success Manju orchestrates her ingredients into the finale of Recipes to Riches

''T

b.ink M.anju, chink StllllOStlsl"

shouted an enthusiastic ManjnJebu as she reached out co us through our television screen s from the secs of tbe recently concluded T{ecipt to Rirhes series aired on channel Ten. The show was a twelve part series where J\usu-alians brought to the tab le their homemade recipes, and the winner of each episode saw their produces on the shelves of \Voolworths across Australia the day after the episode was aired.

Brisbane-based Manju who has been a radio convenor for over 26 years and who currently is the Honorary Ambassador of City of Ipswich for India, made it to the finale of the show for her produce, Manju's Vegetable Samosas. Tndian Lillk caught up with Indian-born Jvfanju co find om more about her experiences on Recipe to Riches and ber love for cooking a particular sc1111osa which impressed not only cl1e judges, but also the rest of Australia.

"Anything I do is our of sheer love and passion, and the same holds true for cooking," says Manju passionately, bur wicl1 a smile. '·Cooking is like music co me, l am the direcror and I have to orchestrate ingreilients accordingly co create a dish. I can create food out of anything".

However, this did not hold true when i\fanju first moved to Australia in 1978. "f did not know how to cook when. I first got to Australia," she says with a laugh.

"The only dish I knew was spiced potato curry and this was because of a photographic memory of sitting long hours in my kitchen in India waiting for the food to be cooked and ser ved co me by my mother," she adds. "Spiced potatoes berween toasted bread was like a st1111osa to me then".

It was not until 1982, w hen a health shop Manju was browsing through made her an offer co deliver a dozen .ra111osa for $6. ·•1 remembered talking ro God and asking Him how this would be possib le. And the answer l gor was 'Do unco me and I'U

INDIAN LINK

b.less you'," she reveals. This was the beginning of her learning process of making a sa111osa. :tvlanju remembers that her first batch was with Aaky pastry. "I goc better ar making the dough for tl1e .ra111osa, and my sa111osa.r were sold in few shops within my area," reminisces Manju. "l ,vas unaware that l had scarred a catering business of sorts, which went on for ten years".

She continued to make samo.ras for her friends, ger-togethers and family friend Greg Chappel, former Australian cricketer who is a big fa n of Manju's homemade samosas.

"1 came across the application for Recipe to Riches and filling in the form was the most difficult part. I told myself I would give it a go and see what happens next," states i\l[anju who shared her homemade samosa recipe along with a photograph of the finished product.

Man ju eventually got a nod from the judges for her so/110.ra.r and received the Golden Ticket, an entry to the competition.

Up against other homemade recipes, l\ifanju was asked to produce a large number of sa!l1osas in a commercial kitchen. Having never worked in. a kitchen of this magnitude, the task ahead seemed daunting. But "wirb a focussed, confident and positive attirnde I went ahead and prepared the samosCl.r," she says.

After getting a go-ahead from the judges, Manju was then asked to market her product ro Australians. "During this

(,c

[r?lh ID11fJ section I felt very disheartened and thought this journey was finished, but it was my daughter Tabitha who offered me words of encouragement and this kept rne going," she reveals.

Manju's samosas were a bit among the locals and she was announced the winner of tl1at particular episode, wicl1 her sa111osCls made available on the shelves of \Voolworths. "fr was a dream come true to see my sa111osas in the frozen section," stiys l\ifaojn.

She qualified to participate in the finale with ten other contestants, each vying for a life-changing parmership wicl1 Woolworcl1s.

"Being in cl1e grand Enale of Recipe to Riches I was a Little shaken up, I had to pinch myself co

tell me that this is nor a dream anymore, but a reality," says Manju with a smile. Manju's vegerable sa111osas did not win in the finale, but this has left her stronger and more optimistic about her personal culinary goals.

Her own cooking sho,,, someday which will showcase both Indian and multicultural cuisine, and cl1e production of a range of frozen food products, are whacManj u aspires to and hopes co achieve in tl1e future.

DECEMBER 2013 17

INDIAN NEWS .,,

Victims say the impacr of the tragedy can be seen even today as hundreds of cluldren born in the area even now suffer from disabilities.

"There are no jobs, victims are being given substandard medicines in hospitals and children continue to be born witl1 disabilities of all kinds. We have been fighting and will coocinue for our rigbrs," seated Rashida Bi, head of the Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Stationery Karmchari Sangh.

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Indian Mars craft crosses moon orbit

An Indian Naval band performs during Naval Day celebrations at the Arabian Sea in Mumbai, India, December 4

Chidambaram pegs economic growth at 5 percentfor 2013-14 The Indian econom y is on the path of recovery. Growth wi.Uaccelerate in the coming quarter and is expected to be around five percent for the current financial rear, Finance l\linister P. Chidambaram said recently in New Delru.

Tbe country's gross domestic product (GDP) growth rose to 4.8 percent in the quarcer ending in September as compared to 4.4 percent in the previous quarter, according to latest data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

Average growth in the .fitst two quarters of the current financial year srood at 4.6 percent.

Addressing a press conference in the capital, Chidambaram said tbe economic growth performance in the second quarter of tl1e currenc financial year was in line with tl1e government's expectation and was likely to improve significantly in the second half of the year. ''The second quarter GDP growth rate indicaces that the economy may be recovering and i s on a growth trajecrory again," tl1e finance minister said.

Apart from the second quarter GDP growth numbers, Chidambaram also based bis o ptimism on recovery in e..xports and a very good improvement in current account deficit simarion. "\'\lirh d1e recent impr0\ emenrs in some important sectors li ke manufacmcing, better performance of exports and with the measures taken by tl1e governmenc, the economy can be expected co show further improvement. \'Ile expect the growtl1 for tl1e financial year 2013-14 co be 5.0 percent," the finance ministry said in a statement.

7

India's current account deficit fa lls to $5.2 billion in Q2 India's current account deficit declined to $5.2 billion in July-September quarter o f the current financial year as compared co $2 l billion recorded in tl1e corresponding

18 DECEMBER 2013

quarter of las r year, on cbe back of rise in exports and decline in gold imports, government data showed recently.

As a proportion of tl1e country's gross domestic product (GDP), the current accounc deficit d uring the quarter under review is 1.2 percent, sharply down from 5 percent recorded in the corresponding quarter in 2012-13, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RB[).

The current account deficit (CAD) was recorded at 4.9 percent of the councry's GDP in me April-June quarter of tl1e current financial year. ''Tbe lower CAD was primarily o n account of a decline in tbe trade deficit as merchandise exports picked up and imports moderated, particularly gold imports," the RBI said.

On a balance of payment basis, merchandise exports increased by 11.9 percent to $81.2 billion in the second quarter of 2013-14 on the back of significant growtl1 especially in tl1e exports of textiles and textile products, leatl1er and Leather produces and chemicals.

On the otl1er hand, merchandise imports at $1 14.5 billion recorded a decline of 4.8 percent in tl1e second quarter of tl1e current financial year as compared witl1 a decline of 3 percent.in tl1e second quarter of 2012-13 year-on-year, pi:imarily led by a steep decline in gold imports, whicb amounted to $3.9 billion as compared to $16.4 billion in the first quarter o f 2013-14 and $11. l billion in tl1e second quarter of 2012-13.

As a resulr, the merchandise trade deficit (BoP basis) contracted to $33.3 billion in tl1e second quarter of 2013-14 from $47.8 billion a year ago.

29 years later, Bhopal gas victims still wait for justice It was on the night of Dec 2-3, l 984, that a toxic gas leak from the ll nion Carbide Corporation's pesticide plant in the Madhya Pradesh capital killed and maimed thousands of people. Nearly three decades

later, victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy are stiU fighting for justice.

The victims have been waging legal battles demanding more compensation, better treatment facilities and removal of hazardous waste from the sire, and jobs for affected people.

Various social groups fighting for justice for the victims of one of the world's worst industrial d isasters are planning to hold a meeting in Bhopal to reiterate tl1eir demands.

Most of the vicrin1s blame the state and cenu·al governments for not paying heed to theii: needs. ''ln tl1e past 29 years, we have been fighting witl1 !inured resources bur nothing substantial has come out yet. Botl1 tbe state and central governments have been eye-washing tl1e world on tl1e matter," said Rachna Dhingra, a member of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action.

Dbingra said 25,000 metric tonnes of toxic waste stiU lies inside the locked Union Carbide plant in Bhopal.

"So far, o nly 350 tonnes of waste bas been removed and the rest continues to lie inside the plant with none having any answer to when will it be removed," she said.

"The Madhya Pradesh government has accepted the contamination of groundwater in tl1e regio n, bur no steps have been taken for i ts disposal," she said.

The Bhopal gas traged y killed over 3,500 people in a single night. An estimated 25,000, who \Vere maimed have clied over rwo decades.

Balkrishna Namdeo of the Bhopal Gas PeediL Niras hrit Pension Bhogi Sangharsh Samiti said tl1e worst part is tlrnt the culprits behind ilie tragedy are still at large and tl1e government has failed to put them behind bars.

"The people who were responsible for the whole tragedy have gone scot free and our government did not take any action co punish those responsible for taking so many innoceoc lives," Namdeo said.

Becoming tl1e farthest object sent by tl1e country into interplanetary space, the 1ndian spacecraft co Mars crossed the moon's orbit on Dec 2, on its way towards tl1e red planer, ISRO officials said in Bangalore recently.

"The M.ars Orbiter has crossed the distance of the moon's orbit around 8am and is now tl1e farthest object of India in tl1e interplanetary space," said a senior space agency official.

As earth's only natural satellite, tl1e moon is around 384,400 km away and is tl1e fifth largest of its kind in the solar system.

Cruising at 32 km per second in the 680-million km solar orbit, the Orbiter Flew over the satellite, crossing its orbit where lodia's moon craft Chandrayaao-1 orbited in 2008-09. The spacecraft has cruised a distance of 536,000 km from eartl1 by 5 pm on Dec 2.

"The Orbit is on course and cruising to escape the earth's sphere of influence, which extends up to 9 I 8,347 km in the deep space," Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) di.recror Deviprasad Karnik said in Bangalore.

Scientists at the Indian telemetry, tracking and command network (Istrac) in Bang alore and tl1e Indian Deep Space Network at Bylalu, abollt 40km from Bangalore, are monitoring the spacecraft's movement in the sun-synchronous orbit and checking its subsystems.

"The Orbiter bas crossed tl1e rubicon never co remrn, as it was freed from the earth's gravity on early Dec 1 and is on way for a rendezvous with the red planet," Karnik said.

T he craft was Aung into outer space 1.11 am Dec 1 after irs engine was fired for 22 minutes for the crucial trans-Mars injection at a velocity (speed) of 648 metres per second.

T he deep space network will conduct the fust of the four mid-course corrections Dec l l to ensure the Orbiter stays on course in the sun orbit.

After a nine-momh long journey, tbe spacecraft wiU enter in mid-September 2014 the 1\fars sphere of inAuence, which is around 573,473 km from its surface, in a hyperbolic trajeccory. " \Xlhen the spacecraft is closest co Mars in mid-September, it will be captured into tl1e Martian orbit through a crucial manoeuvre," Kar11ik said.

Transition from the earth's final orbit to solar orbir was programmed in line with sun's gravity and laws of the universe to ensure the Orbiter reaches precisely on time co sling into the Martian orbit in midSeptember.

T he 1,337 kg Orbiter was launched Nov 5 from Sriharikota spaceport off the Bay of Bengal, about 80 km nortb east of Chennai, on board a 350-tonne rocket wicb five

www.indianlink.com.au

ij

• scientific instnunents, l\ifa.rs Colour Camera, Methane Sensor, Thermal Infrared Imaging Spectrometer, Lyman Alpha Photometer, and Mars e.wspheric Netmal Composition Analyser. lndia became the fuse Asian country and fourtl1 nation in tl1e world to leap into d1e interplanetary space with its Rs.450-crore explo ratory mission to Mars, about 400 million km from earth.

So far, only Russia, USA and the European Space Agency (ESA) have nndertaken such missions.

Japan's imperial couple floored by grand reception Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko were Aoored by the "gorgeous and colourfuf' ceremonial reception accorded ro them at Rashtrnpati Bhavan in New Delhi recently.

The presence of smartly-turned out personnel of the tliree Services as well as tl)e horse-mounted Presidential Bodygnards in their red-gold livery, left me Japanese imperial couple "very much impressed".

Sakuram Tanino, press secretary co tbe emperor and former envoy ro India, said d1e ceremonial reception was "very big in scale".

The imperial couple, who are on a six-day state v isit to India, later went to Rajghat ro pay Aoral tributes at the samadhi o f Malrntma Gandhi.

They had paid tribute at Rajghat dui:ing their visit 53 years ago, when they were in India as crown prince and princess of Japan and were in their early 20s, said Tanino.

The emperor and empress during their visit to the Japanes e embassy were very impressed at how big the peepul tree, known in Japanese as ho, had grown in the 53 years since they planted it.

Need more American investment into India, says Sibal Com1mrnications Minister Kapil Sibal. recently called for greater investments from US-based companies in India to create jobs and buying capacity for d1e local population.

"You need co invest in agriculture, medical (sector), electronics and education.

Unless you help Indian economy, you won't be able to foc rease buying capacity of L1dian consumers," Sibal said at the ninth Indo-US Resurgence Summit held in New Delhi recently.

"The (US investors) are interested in selling their aircraft, defence equipment, but that is not the way to converge in this partnership".

According to Indian government estimates, the Indo- US trade in merchandi5e goods for the calendar year 20 12 stood at $62.85 billion wid1 balance of trade surplus of $18.18 billion in favour of fodia.

On the other hand, civilian and military orders placed by India witl1 American companies have created tl10usands of jobs in the US. 1 otwithstanding d1e growing trade ties, tbe US Lrnder its strategic partnership wants co co-develop new systems for civilian and military purposes wid1 India.

The minister, who was speaking at the event organised by the Inda-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC), also attacked d1e US government policy o f restricting visas ro Indian information technology (IT) professionals.

INDIAN LINK

INDIAN NEWS

"You are a country mat talks about liberalisation of global economy and yet you are .increasing cost of our IT sector by trying to i.mpose restriction on our people trying to go ro US. I don't think m is is the right attitude for partners," Sibal said.

Sibal added tl1at the u·ade between the two countries can rapidly expand, and pointed at the enormous opportunity for tl1e companies of t\VO sides to collaborate in areas like manufacmre o f consumer durables as there is exponential demand in lndia.

"Today because of high wages cost in China, manufacturing facilities are shifting to India. Japanese are very keen to invest in India, I don't know why the Amer icans don't come forward," Sibal said.

"The present in1port bill of crude oil is about $140 billion. Do you think Inclian economy can afford to import $300 billion of consumer electronics? We will become bankrupt. We have no choice to build manufacturing sector in our country".

The dar-long summitin the national capital was attended by more than 200 delegates representing companies and institutions from India and the US, including top diplomats and officials from government levels.

According to IACC's regional president Lalit Bhasin, the summit focussed on enhancing the partnership bet-veen the rwo countries in me sphere of aviation, aerospace, security, services, tiade, media and entertainment.

"Our resurgent summit seeks to provide more depth to commercial ties behveen the world's most powerfuJ and the world's largest democracies," Bhasin said.

"The idea to enhance the partnership to the next .level of business, the middlelevel enterprises d1at are d1tiving hubs o f innovation and emplopneor".

End travel curbs, demand Pakistan, India journalists Journalists from India a nd Pakistan bave demanded an end to restrictions on comm1rnications and travel between the two COUntJJeS.

The demand was made in a joint declaration by the Karachi Press Club (KPC) and the Mumbai Press Club at d1e end of a week-long visit by an Indian jomnalists' delegation to Pakistan recently, the Dai!J Times reported.

KPC prc:sident lo1ciaz Khan Faran and Mun1bai Press Club president Gurbir Singh signed the declaration.

The declaration said the limit of allowing only hvo accredited journalists in the capitals of eimer country on a reciprocal basis was "ir.rational and restrictive".

Jc said tl1e severe travel res trictio ns imposed on journalises have made comprehensive and crmhful reporting impossible.

The Indian declaration called me restrictions imposed by bod1 countries on disu·ibution of print editions " archaic and resttictive," es pecially since internet editions were freely available dirough out the globe.

Bodh Gaya temple dome inlaid with gold The dome of Bodh Gaya's 1,500-year-old Mahabodhi temple, Buddbism's holiest shrine, has been inlaid wid1 nearly 300 kg gold donated by devo tees from Thailand, giving tbe shrine a new look.

"A tean1 of technical exper ts from

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Japan's Emperor Akihito shakes hand with the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee during a meeting in New Delhi, 2 December. The trip of the Japanese Emperor is to commemorate the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties between the two countries

Thailand has completed work to gold-plate the dome and .final touches were given co it recently," the temple's chief monk Bikbshu Chali11da said.

Chalinda said in a telephone interview from Bodh Gaya, about 110 km from Patna, that the temple's dome had become more attractive and beautiful after it was inlaid witl1 gold.

"Thanks to the 289 kg of gold donated by tbe Thai King's treasury and Buddhist devotees from Thailand, the temple has not only become .richer but it has a different look," he said.

According to him, more than 200 Thai devotees, mostly mose who donated gold, were can1ping in tl1e temple premises to o ffer prayers.

N. Dorjee, secretary of tl1e Bodb Gaya temple management committee, said work on ilie dome started in November. A Thai company carried it om , overseen b y me Archaeological Survey of India (AS]).

The gold was flown in a special plane from Bangkok.

Dorjee said it was Thai King Bhumibol Atulya who decided last year to cover the temple dome with gold. Bur it took rime to get me ASI's clearance.

The first phase of the work involving chemical treatment was co mpleted in August co prepare die foundation for gold placing.

The anciem 180 feet structure of the Mahabodhi temple is estimated to have been built between the 5th and 6th century

AD. le was lost and rediscovered in tl1e 19th century by Alexander Cunning ham, who founded the 1\SI in 1861.

Scientific validation of ayurvedic medicines begins in Kerala CARe Keralam, which recently scientifically validated the anti-diabetes ayan1edic formulation N ishaakathakaadhi Kashayam (NKK) thus facilitating its sale abroad, is going ahead with the same process for ocher produces coo, an official said recently in Kochi.

The scientific validation of d1e diabetes formulation was a 6rst-of-its-kinu attempt in the hisrory of f!)'llrveda. Such validation is necessary for the marketing and sale of qyur11edir products in foreign markers.

CARe KeraL1m, a co mmon facility set up as a joint venture behveen qy11rveda units and d1e Kerala government, will id entify 20 popular formulations for scientific validation with a view to ensuring wider acceptability for '!)'1trvcdi,- medicines.

Many ayurvedic formulations are mar:keted mostly as foc>d supplements.

CARe Keralam (the Confederation of Ayurvedic Renaissance Keralam Ltd) will be supported by the acional Innovation Council and the Council for Scientific and lndustrial Research (CSIR) in dus attempt co bring international recognition to qy11111edic medicines.

"We have been entrusted this pioneering scientific study by tl1e ational Innovation Council. We are read)' to take up more such studies to promote the standardisation of ayurveda products, to bring them on par with modern medicines," CARe Keralam managing director Karimpuzba Raman said.

CARe Keralam, along with CSIR and other national agencies, is also planning a grand qytwucda summit to place this age-old Indian system of medicine in tl1e limelight and identify key produces for scientific validation, wid1 tbe support of tl,e industry.

Spurred by d1e huge response to its dossier on NKK, d1e group is also planning ro hold a clinical crial of the formulation with a minimum o f 500 subjects, co establish tl1e efficacy and safety of the product and officially declare it safe, ru1d in accordance witl1 global standards.

CARe Keralam was established in. Koratty in Thr:issur d istrict o f Kerala witb the support of the Department of Ayurveda, Yoga, Nanuopatby, Unani, Sidda and Homeopathy (Ayush) o f the government of India. It has conducted a comprehensive multidisciplinary sn1d y on NKK's eight raw materials, and the Cf)'lltwtdic product formulated from them, demonstrating its efficacy o n rats.

1ANS

DECEMBER 2013 19

ARTS

The exhibition showcases a rare glimpse into Indian art dating from the 8th century to present day

o savom the ar tistic riches of India, one had to go no farther dian the Art Gallery of South Australia. In mid-Ocmber, die GaUer)' launched an exhibition titled, F.ealt11s of lf7011der- Jain, Hif!d11 a11d lsla11tic m-t of Jndi", at a gala function held on its rear courtyard.

The invited guests, numbering around 200, included Adelaide's arr aficionados and several Indians from various community groups.

Showcasing more than 200 paintings, sculptures and decorative art pieces dating from the 8'" century ro the p resenr day, the organisers proudly p roclaimed, '1t is the Gallery's first major exhibition dedicated exclusively to the art of lndia. .Many of tbe works are on display for the first time. Jain art has never before been comprehensively displayed in Australia".

Welcoming the guests at the launch, GaUer)' D irector Nick Nlitzevich said the first piece of Indian art ,vas obtained in 1904, but serious collecting of Asian art started only a few decades ago.

Gallery's curator James Bennett told Jndi",1 Link mat, "All but one of the exhibits have come from local sources, many from our own coUection mat have been sirring around for over 30 years, but have never been exhibited. Quite a number are from local collectors

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20 DECEMBER 2013

and one is from a European coUecror who has volunteered it to be displayed on hearing about die exhibition".

How much

evident in the introductory speech of Mr Michael Abbott, a leading QC and Gallery's Board Chairman, when he thanked a long list of persons who have loaned or gifted their pri2ed possessions to th.is exhibition. It was heartening to know that so many Adelaidians are interested in Indian art. However, modesty prevented him from mentioning that a good number of tl1em are from his private coUeccion. i\'1r Abbott, a legal luminary, .is well known for his huge coUection of Indian artworks including antique textiles. le is interesting co note that diis mp silk who delves in forensic details in court, is equally dedicated to the line arcs.

Visitors to his grand o ld house are reported to have a sense of enrering an Indian art gallery. He does not hold die pleasure of his

collection just to hiinself, but has shared it with the wider public by donating or permanently loaning a large number of them, valued around $5 miJJi.on, ro galleries around Australia with the SA Gallery getting the lion's share.

When asked what sparked h is interest in Indian textiles, not very common for collectors, rvfr Abbott said, '1 once went to a trade textiles fair in Indonesia and saw fine Indian textiles d1ere that sparked my interest in them.

My first acquisition of Indian art was in the early 70s. My special ioreresr is in the Coramandel coast and Gujarat". He has visited India countless ti.mes in pursuit of his passion, besides snapping up rare pieces at famous auctions overseas.

Among other benefactors to this current exhibition are l\,lr Barrie Heaven, who once owned the renowned Lord K itchener restaurant, die only lndian eatery in Adelaide until die 70s, and .Mrs Judy Heaven, a foi-mer curator of the Gallery.

How mericulously the currenr exhibition was organised can be evidenced the moment you climb down the stairs where a larger drnn life wooden temple guard, a common sight in Soud, lndian temples, catches die attention.

The entire basement has been segmented imo sLx sections with each entrance decked with large,

intricately carved wooden panels giving a feeling of entering a temple or royal come. One section is devoted to Jain arc. Sculptures of Shiva hold court in one room while paintings of Krishna and stanies of Vishnu pervade tli e ocher, representing the two major seccs of Hinduism.

Antique textiles cake up one section, while silverware and jewellery occupy another. Islamic arr has good coverage where every waU was covered ,vith Koranic scriptures as can be seen on die Taj J\fahal or famous mosques.

Attention to detail is admirable.

Curacor Bennet said he sought the help of Prof Richard Cohen from Virginia University in the US, and rwo Iranian experts to get the correct translation of notes accompanying some Islamic art pieces. Offering an idea of the work behind the show, he said it took 18 months of planning and full four weeks of installation by ten worker,5. The entire set• up was not just a showpiece of workmanship, but a work of art in itself!

As it could take an hour or two to see the treasures on display, children can malce their own artful creations widi playdough in an acrivity room w here many Ganesha idols crafted by young and o ld adorn the shelves.

The Rc"hm of Wonder· exhibition is not limited co masterpieces

of an. It comprises a series of lecmres on all aspects of Indian art, workshops on dtaping a snri, hmna decoration, tabla playing, music and dance performances, yoga and meditation classes, Hare Krishna chanting, Deepa Mehta's three movies and even a tour of tlie adjoining Botanic Garden to explore Indian Rora.

Deserving of a bouquet, this elaborate show goes on w1til January 27, so interstate visitors during d1e Ch1·istmas holidays can enjoy a rim, artistic feast.

Adelaide's North Ter race that houses the gallery, museun1, State Librnry and rwo universities is apdy called the culniral golden mile, and it is now furdier enriched widi priceless treasures from India.

Details are auailab/e on the Ga/le,y's website at www.artgallery.sa.gou.a u

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INDIAN LINK

DECEMBER 2013 21

OPINION

The future for worldtraveh lndo-Oz relations

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Will the new government prove to be old wine in a new bottle or will it make an effort in genuinely improving lndo-Oz relations?

•••

ir up nicely: Leaming.from cbaos: IVin i11 fndirt to is like a wild horse. Once you tame it, it will be your Black Caviar". ✓.J ' ·· 1 Australia is fast losing irs attractiveness for ; BY Indian students as a destination for higher MOHANTHITE studies. With the high Aussie dollar and increasing restrictions on espite the change student visas and permanent of government residency, Indian smdenrs in Australia after today tend to prefer ilie USA six years, the impact and and UK over Australia. implications for relations With the high Aussie Bur India is becoming with India are most likely to strategically important to dollar and increasing be minimal.

Australia in one respect, restrictions on student human resources. The focus Fi.est of all, lndia is visas and permanent mired in its own economic, of Australia's migration residency, Indian political and social problems, program has significantly student s today tend to shifted over Lhe last decade adversely affecting its prefer the USA and UK towards an 'emphasis on growth rate and global over Australia leverage. There is a looming attracting skilled migrants mssle between Rahul in o rder to meet Australia's labour needs' and skilled Gandhi and r arendra migrants, bod, permanent Modi in the upcoming elections. Until India finds and temporary, are allocated its own direction and moves the lion's share (68%) of tl1e migration intake. decisively, it can't expect the rest of d1e world to take ir seriously.

In 2011-12, India became the largest Even though both Liberals and Labor source counn·y for permanent m igration, have endorsed selling uranium to Indi,i, and second largest for temporary skilled it is highly unlikely to warm Ausn:alia's migration in AustraLia . India is also the prime relations with India. The key challenge in destination for global services offshorfog. the relationship is 'trust deficit'. Ir is telling Harnessing Indian human capital is therefore in the fact that no Indian Prime Minister has vital for tl1e long-term economic and labour visited Australia in over 25 years, whereas needs of Australia.

Australian Prime Ministers have been to There is tremendous scope for relations between India and Australia ro reach new India se,7 eral times dming d1at period.

In finding reasons for India's lack of heights - economically, politically and interest in Australia, the S]dmy Momi11g socially. To realise this po tential, both sides need to make some serious strategic moves.

Herald (29/8/2012) felt tha t "to India, India o n its part needs to shed its 'reluctant Australia doesn't matter that much [as] superpower' image and should participate Australia is, at best, a third-tier parmer in seriously in global affairs by taking decisive Indian eyes". le is true that the only thi ng that interests India about Australia is its steps in forging enduring partnerships witl1 energy resources. Pri~rate USA, Japan and Australia.

Indian firms like Adani and The Australian GVK Group have made goverrunent and political/ business leaders equally, need .some major inroads in regards to this. to look beyond short-term Today, India is A usn·alia's fixes in strengtl1ening tl1eir Let us hope Tony fourrb larges r trading relatio nship with l.ndia aod Abbott and his partner with trade heavily show patience, perseverance government w ill be skewed in favou r of and genuineness in their the guiding light that engagement.

Ausn·alia. Still, Australian heralds a new era companies have had very Let us hope To ny Abbott of Inda-Australian limited success in entering and his government will be relations the burgeoning lndian the guiding light tl1ac heralds a new era of lndo-Australian marker. In my keynote address on 'Doing business relations. in India' o rganised by ilie After all, d1e lndian Q ueensland Government's and Australian tectonic plates were fused together India Council in 2012, I millions o f years ago and according to new had noted, "Success in India requires a unique approach to find me jt1gar1d way, like research, Australian aborigines had contact 'water Aowing through the paths of least with Indian migrants 4,000 years ago. So resistance'. Slicing tluough the chaos in India our relations go a long way back, and even to success demands a unique genius, one iliac Pauline Hanson will not be able to tell can sometin1es confound Western logic and Indian migrants to "go back to where you norms. The title of an upcoming book sums came from!"

D

1JJi11 everywhere. ] ndia

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VIEWPOINT

On money and happiness Showing more empathy and charity towards the poor can help reduce poverty and destitution in the world

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BY SHAFEEN MUSTAQ

f the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer, does this mean the rich have to curb their dreat:ns and aspirations to lift up the status of the poor? When David Beckham earns $100,000 a tlay, should he be giving that away to live in Ingleburn, so chat the poor can rise up to a proper standard of living? The reality of rnodern society is that the rich are rich at the expense of the poor. \Y./e Jive off the poor, we cake their money, their oil, minerals, gemstones and their labour at such horrifying low costs that we create a socioeconomic divide responsible for the brain drain and resource drain of ocher countries. In doing so we make ourselves wholly responsible for the growing economic divide and the misfortunes of chose less well off.

Does chis mean the rich are not allowed to aspire? No. Everyone is entitled to aspire. The garment worker who is only paid 50c for a dress you bought at $110 is also entitled to aspire. But she liYes in a society in which you have conb:ibuted to the death of her cl.rean1s. We have built a socio-economic arena tn which third world countries are pitted against first world countries like gladiators, with little to no hope for success. Shouldn't we work cowards a society where this worker's labour is duly paid and her right to dream is duly respected and given a lighting

I

chance? Islam's way of wealth distribution gives people that chance. The concept of 'zakoa! which is to donate a small portion of one's wealth to the less fortunate means chat if we all gave a little of ,vhat we have, there would be no poverty in this world. But we don't. We would rather spend it on a new house or another car, than give even a cent more than what is expected of us..

It is here tl1at I believe it is our collective responsibility to judge eacb other, and remind ourselves of om bow1daries and of the risk of hedonism. A reminder between friends that extravagance leads to the loss of values and sense of self, should not be considered offense. Rather, it should be gratefully accep ted so that we do not lose oucselves in the consumerist mad dash for materialistic satisfaction. So, no!

I don't think David Beckham should live tn Llglebnrn. He has worked very hard to get where he is, by virtue of his looks, talent and his efforts at harnessing his fame. But he should remember that the privileges be takes for granted which position him in the c,i111e de la cri!111e of society, are but a dream for 90% of his fellow humans. And he knows tl1at.

His efforts with ONICEF and those of Meryl St:reep and Angelina Jolie with other NGOs, show that there ate celebrities who take on the responsibility of helping those less fortunate, and cake it very seriously.

So the next time you look at that amazing red sports car, or the brand new housing complex in which you can build a mansion, remind yourself that having food, shelter, clothes and access co education put5 you i.n the cop

''

The concept of 'zakaat'which is to donate a small portion of one's wealth to the less fortunate means that if we all gave a little of what we have, there would be no poverty in this world

'' 10% of society. Remind yourself that we live in a world of 6 billion people in which the majority go hungry every day, have little to no shelter, or are facing religious and cuJmral persecution. Recognise that the current socioeconomic status, division of wealtl1 and labour, and political hegemony only perpetuate this divide and drive mankind to total despair and apathy. Remind yourself cbaty01/ can make a clifference by doing

your bit for your fellow humans.

Buy fair trade, look behind the fa<;ade of materialism, refrain from extravagance, put aside some portion of your wealth for charity.

The most important thLng you can do to srop tl1e perpetuation of our consumerist culture is to educate your children, families and friends. Teach chem the value of money. Show d1em d1rough your own actions d1at simply because you have the means to deck

yourself in Louis Vuitton, doesn't mean that you do. For somewhere in some dark decrepit factory, d1ere is a little git:l who makes those lush things )'Oll crave with no hope of ever wearing tl1em herself. Remember rliat while you have aspirations, you are not d1e only one that does.

And there is nothing more rewarding tl1an giving back some.one's right to aspire, in whatever way you cau.

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TRAVEL

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Apart from its stunning beaches and relaxing ambience, the sociable natives of Fiji make your trip special

n celebration of my twin daughters' 4'" birthd ay I rook them o n their first overseas holiday to Fiji. As we disembarked from the plane and began the walk coward s the taxi srnnd, icky turned and ran back to the craft o n hearing a deafening welcome cry of 'Bula' (Hello!) from large men in grass skirts, wielding clubs for dramatic effect. Severa.I trips later we retmn to explore the Cora.I Coast on the main is1md of Vi ti Levu.

The drive from the airport passes r adi, predominantly an Indian town with the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, the lai-gesc in the southern hemisphere, and spice shops and Indian restaurants lining the main street. \~litb v illages, coconut trees, sugarcane and pineapple plantations, Fiji's coasrnl road is a pictures9 ue drive circling tl1e island as beauri fu.l beaches, coral reefs and scenic bays corne into view. \V/e arrive at our hotel, Outrigger on cbe Lagoon, and for the next week, my teenage daughters spend their days by the poo l while l venture off exploring the island.

More cban just an idyllic hol.iday destination in the South Pacific, Fiji is friendly. le took me several clays to realise, as I wal.ked along the roadside, that a too t from a passing car was a way of asking whether l was in need of a lift. After walking for several kilometres on che fust day and many toots later, a mini bus wi th young backpackers onboard stopped and the guid e from Fee Jee Experience offered me a ride. Over the next few days, I was offered lifts by an academic remrning to Fiji University with her smd en ts in tow; Inoke-, an attorney goin g home with his daughter after a conference; and raxi drivers o ffe1.ing a life w hile on their way to collect passengers. 1 also caught local buses piled high with fresh fruit and vegetables, wi th fre9uent scops for children making the.ir way to school.

1 caught a bus to Suva, the capital and home to half of F iji's

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24 DECEMBER 2013

population, and a city tha t seems to be subjected to a constant drizzle. I visi ted the lively marker, had an excellenr Indian lunch with local ingredients rep lacing those that are not locally available, and visited the Fiji Museum, which tells the countr}"s story thr ough musical instruments, cooking tools and war clubs. I also visited Pacific Harbour, with several resorts and a marina.

Fiji's most beautiful beach is Natadola, a long crescent shaped beach of white sand. With a golf course and several expensive resort hotels, while Jovel)', those staying here bad little inclination to venture beyond. l caug ht the local bus several times to Sigaroka, the l.argest town on the Cora.I Coast and the commercial centre for tl1e farming comJnunities upr iver in the Sigaroka Valley. The .fresh produce marker sold tl1e sweetest pineapples, and roots for making kat'a were piled high in bunches.

A few supermarkets, resrnurants, a l'vfosque and souvenir stores make up tl1e compact town.

Locals advised that I shouJd do two things while in Fiji - rake a cruise to the islands and travel into the interior.

After crossing the Sigatoka River by boar, we hopped inro an o pen 4WD jeep with considerable horsepower and for the next hour we went up and down hills alo ng the valley road, skirting b)' the river manoeuvred with considerable skill by Josephine, our tour guide. Stopping at a village we met villagers climbing onboard a truck to attend a cllurch service. An eld erly man hopped out, came towards us and presented me with a Aower garland.

Ar i aihebe Cave more than 170 metres long, we waded knee deep in clear water ro the dark interior before being offered kt1va by the village chief. Inevitably, vis.irors will be invited to drink kava, a relaxing traditional drink made from the kava root that numbs your tongue and tastes like bitter liquid mud. l\ifade by placing ground kava root in a cloth infused with water in a wood en bowl, it is offered as a gesture of welcome.

0 Lu final day was spent o n Ra Maranrn, a beautifu.lly restored

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TRAVEL NOTEBOOK FIJI GETTING THERE Virgin Australia, Jetstar and FijianAirways fiy from Australia to Nadi. Watchfor specials. Taxisare plentiful at theairport or pre-bookacoach transfer withCoral Coaches or private transfer through your hotel. Express and local buses provide convenient and Inexpensive transportation aroundthe iSland, but as they stick to the main roads, hirea taxi for sightseeing the beaches, since many are away from the main road.

I ACCOMMODATION tall ship as we cruised ro Tivua lsland for snorkelling, kayaking and a tropical buffet lunch. With dJe most perfect of sunny skies, a sudden storm had us running for cover, with offers of kam. \"(/e returned back co rbe botel with the crew singing merrily.

Fiji is a country with a strong cultural heritage of Fijians and descendants of Indian labourers who were brought to work in d1e sugar industry between 1879 and 1916. On our lase night we

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watched another sunset, the aromatic blend o f coconut oil and tropical blooms filling the air. 1 went for my final walk along the beach and began talking to a family preparing a picnic. "Would you like to come join us?" Ir was Rajen, a chef at the Outrigger Hotel, enjoying his day o ff.

"Come again!" they called, and as d1e horses were brought down to the water's edge for a swim in the lagoon, I thought I surely can and will!

Fiji has a 010urableexchange rate whichtranslates into a great and affordable holiday destination, and resorts aregenerallyof a highstandard.We thoroughly enjoyed ourstay at theOutrigger on the Lagoon- Fiji +679-650-0044 / reservationS@Outriggerfiji.com.fj/www.outriggerfiji.com Thedaily activities planner will occupy your time without needing to leave the resort. The kid's club is excellent My daughters spent their time by the poolside, although guided tours to sand dunes, kayaking etc,, are on offer. Fire walking, the Fijian Lovo and traditional dance nights area highlight. The resort fronts a beautiful lagoonwithanexp.1nslve lush iropical gardenand large lagoon swimming pool. Some resorts are moresuited tocoupiesor honeymooners, whileotherscater for families. Solotravellers might better enjoy touringwitha tour companysuch as Fee.lee Experience.

DINING Opt for a meal package if you plan to spend yourtime at a resort, since meal costs do add up. We found several restaurants only astone'sthrow from the resort, with Le Cafe recommended.

FURTHER INFORMATION Avoid thecyclone season. Captain CookCruises offer a great day sailing out to Tivua Island.+ 6796701-823/reservations@captaincook.com,fj/www.captaincook.com.fj Sigatoka River Safari offer two excursions, both recommended. +679-6501-721 / safari@sigatokariver.com/www.sigatokariver.com

DECEMBER 2013 25

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WHY HSC SCALING MATTERS

BY RICHARD CHUA, FOUNDER OF TALENT 100 AND EDUCATION THOUGHT LEADER In this article, Richard Chua explains how to target and achieve an ATAR. Richard graduated from Sydney Grammar School with a UAI of 100 (ATAR equivalent 99.95). He currently works as a Strategy Associate for Google in Mountain View.

Next week, HSC students will finally get their ATARs - four digits which could determine what careers and professions they may be doing for the next 20 year s. Your ATAR Is your ticket to Uni• versity, so Its important to know exactly how this is calculated.

At Talent 100, we've consistently had more than a quarter of our students achieving ATARs over 99. Last year, we had 7 students who achieved an ATAR of 99.95. This week I'm going to share with you the secrets to t heir success - how to break any ATAR down into smaller, more achievable goals in each of your subjects.

WHAT IS SCALING? Scaling is the process of standardising marks so that they can be compared across subjects. In scaling marks, the UAC will adjust the highest mark, median mark and standard deviation so that all subjects are directly comparable. The reason it is needed is that without scaling, it would be impossible to compare a 95 in Economics with a 95 in Mathematics Extension 2.

ATARVSUAC The UAC basically converts the averaged HSC Assessment and HSC Examination Marks to their own UAC score through a process of scollng to o UAC score. Each unit is converted to il score of 50 ond the best 10 units (Including English) are used to calculate a score of 500. Most students are unaware that their ATAR is calculated from this base score of 500. The table below illustrate the relationship: ATAR 99.95 99.5 99 98 95 90 85

UAC Score 476 456 446 432 404 371 344

r

www.taJent-lOO.com.au p/1300 999 100

STUDY SMARTER, NOT HARDER

The most important thing to note is that not all subjects ore created or scaled equally. Some subjects that are considered harder are obviously scaled higher, whilst some subjects in which it is easy to score high marks will be scaled downwards.

You now know what ranks you need in each subject to score any ATAR. The next steps are to ensure that you achieve those ranks.

The graph below (fig 1) gives you a good Indication of how subject scales. From the previous table, you should be able to see if you wanted to score an ATAR of, say 99. you would need to score •45/50.

Following those marks, you can see that you would need to score in the top 56% of Maths Ext 2, the top 23% of Maths Ext 1, but in the top 4% of Maths Advanced. For simplicity's sake. we've shown what it takes to score ATARs of 95, 97 and 99 respectively.

What you now have are the relative benchmarks for performance to score any ATAR. Hence, suppose you were aiming for an ATAR of 99.00: If you were in the top 20% for Maths Ext 2, but in the top 20% for English. this graph clearly indicates that your time will be better spent in English, because an improvement to the Top 10% in English is going to deliver much better gains than a similar improvement in Maths.

HOW DO THE DIFFERENT SUBJECTS SCALE? At Talent 100, we've examined the scaling of categories of subjects such as Mathematics, English, Science and the HumaniUes. When you examine the scaling graphs, some clear trends emerge:

If you are in Year 9-12, Talent lOO's courses can help you do just that. We've consistently had the best results in the industry since 2008. Our courses will help you develop the three skills and resources you need to ace any exam:

1. Understand the theory: We teach in small g roups of up to 13 to ensure you understand every syllabus dot point.

2. Perfect exam technique: With regular tests and homework set in examination style, we help you train your exam technlque on a weekly basis.

3. Online learning system: Need extra help on a topic? Our classes are supported by the most advanced online learning system ever created for HSC students.

At Ta lent 100, we've helped 1000s of students achieve their dreams, and we'd like to help you.

For a THREE WEEK free trial, simply call us on 1300 999 100 or you're welcome to visit www.talent-100.com.au

Scaling Graph (fig 1)

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Categories

Highest Scaling Subjects

Decision Rules

Maths

3Uand4U

3U and 4U Maths are by far, the highest scalingsubjects that are readily accessible students, Because of their high scaling, vou should take the highest level of mathematics that you are capable of. For instance, to be on target for an ATAR of 99+, you only need to be average in 4U Maths, whereas vou would need to be In the top 4% of 2U Maths.

Advanced

Where possible you should take at least advanced English. The higher English as a group, scale well above Standard English. For instance, students who scored in the 25% of Advance receive scores higher than those students who score in the top 1% of standard.

45 ----~,.:ii;..._ _ _ _.,...:.;__ __ , ~

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English

&Higher

Science

Physics & Chemistry

Physics and Chemistry are the highest scaling sciences, and scale significantly better than biology.

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Blotoe:y

26 DECEMBER 2013

-''- TALENT100

SCALING GRAPHS

Source: Report on the Scaling of the 2011 HSC (UAC) You should use this graph to target the UAC score out of 500 you need to achieve your desired ATAR. This way, you can be fairly certain what ATAR you are heading for well before you sit your exams. and adjust your study patterns accordingly. For instance, if you wanted to score an ATAR of 99, you would need 449, or roughly 45/50 for every subject.

AUSTRALIA

...

Humanities Economics&

()

Modern History English Adv

Maths Eltt 2

Maths, Adv

.E:ngllsh E:lCt l

Maths Ext l

Chem1s.try

Economics is the best scaling humanity, and scales just as well as Physics and Oiemistry. Apart from Economics, the other humanities scale significantly worse • you will need exceptional ranks to score an overall ATAR if you choose humanities .

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FOOD

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nice

Oh so ber

LENA PEACOCK grabs a handful ofAustralian raspberries and blackberries, which make a delicious, naturally sweet addition to recipes

wooden ske,1rer. Cover mo ulds, insert sticks and freeze for 2 hours or untiJ frozen.

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Raspberry, blackberry and yoghurt jelly cups Ser'l'es 8 Prep time: 20 minutes Setting time: 2 hours es, summer is here and cbat means chose red and black hand-picked small juicy mouchfuls of deliciousness are back. And back with a bang. And even better news? The fresh Australian ones are here to hang o m wi th us and our reci pes until Easter time.

Not only do tl1.ey add a colourful touch to your meal, but tl1ey're also low in calories, high in dietary fibre and jam packed full o f vitamin C. And because iliey're so sweet, you don't even have to bribe kids to eat them.

"The long process of growing Australian raspberries and blackberries starts in late amm1111 or early \vimer depending on tl1e region," says Phil Rowe, an Australian berry grower. "And due to tl1eir delicacy, we don't use machines to pick the fruit. lr's an .intensive process". But so long as tl1ey make ilieir WR)' into our hands, we don't really mind.

Thanks for doing the bard work Pbil!

You can use berries as a snack, in a fruit salad, on top of your cereal, or rum them into a bealchy ice-cream by adding iliem to yoghurt and then. chuck them into the freezer. Other suggestions are:

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INDIAN LINK

Berry yoghurt swirl popsicles Se111es 8 Prep tin1e: lS minutes Cbill time: 2 bours Ingredients Rr,spbmy p11ree 125g raspberries 2 tablespoons caster sugar Black/Jerrypuree 125g blackberries 2 tablespoons caster sugar VaFJill"yoglmrt 111i:xftn·e 2 cups(S00ml) Greek style natural yoghurt ¼ C'up (55g) caster sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Metbod To make each puree: separately blend berries and sugar in a food processor, sttain tbrough a sieve, set aside.

To make yogurt m.ixture: place all ingredients in a bowJ, whis k until combined.

To assemble: pour a fC'.v teaspoons of raspberry pu ree into each 200ml popsicle mould, do the same with the yogurt mix and ilien ilie blackberry puree co give 3 layers. Repeat sequence to create more layers.

Gently swirl the layers with a

Ingredients Yogb1111jel!J 1 cup (250ml) tl1ickened cream 1 /-1 cup caster sugar 1 teaspoon \Tanilla extract 2½ teaspoon s powdered gelatin 1 cup (250g) Greek style natural yoghurt Rr,spbmyjel!J 3 cups (750ml) white grape juice 2 tablespoons caster sugar 3 teaspoons powdered gelatin 125g raspberries 125g blackberries

Method To make the yogurt jelly: place ctean1, sugar and vanilla extract into a small pan over a medium beat. Stir until sugar has dissolved and gently bring co boil, remove from heat. Sprinkle over gelatin and whisk until dissolved. Add yogurt, whisk u ntil smooth. Strain mixture through a sieve, set aside to cool.

To make jelly layer: pour one cup o f the grape juice and the sugar into a small pan over a medium beat. Stir until sugar bas dissolved and gently bring ro boil, remove from hear. Sprinkle over gelatin and whisk until dissolved.

A dd remaining juice, sttain ilirough a sieve and set aside co cool.

To assemble: divide half tl,e berries between eight 200ml cups or glasses. Pour over half me grape juice m.i..,..tu.re, refrigerate for 30 minutes or until set. Pour all tl1e yoghurt mixture over tl1e first layer of jelly, refrigerate until set.

Place remaining berries on top of set yoghurt mi.xtu.re and pour over remaining grape juice mixture. Refrigerate until set.

Serve d1.iJled.

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Raspberry, spinach and Persian feta salad with salted candied walnuts Serves 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking tin1e: 5 minmes Ingredients SaltJd 60ml (¼ cup) olive oil 2 tablespoons ver juice 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon caster sugar 100g baby spinach leaves 2 tablespoons chives, roughl y chopped 1 lemon, coarsely zested 125g raspberries 100g Persian feta, drained, crumbled Salted candied wol1111ts 2 tablespoons caster sugar ½ cup walnuts, lightly roasted

1 /2

teaspoon salt Aakes¼ teaspoon dried chilli Aakes

Metbod To mal,e the candied walnuts: heat sugar in a medium, non-stick frying pan over medium bear. Cook, tilting and swirli ng the pan occasionally for 2-3 minutes or until sugar melts and a light caramel forms.

Working quickly, remove pan and add walnuts, salt and chilli Aakes. Carefully ross to cover nuts in caramel, and pour mixture onto a tray lined wiili baking paper and spread out using a wooden spoon . Allow ro cool. Then using your hands to snap the caramel, separate tl,e clusters.

To prepare salad: for the dressing, place the oil, verjuice, mustard and sugar in a small screw-cop jar. Season witl, salt and pepper. Shake well to combine. Place tl1e spinach in a large bowl. Sprinkle over tl1e chives, lemon. zest, raspberries, candied walnuts and feta. Dri2zle over half the dressing, serve immediately.

Note: For a simpler and quicker salad serve with p lain walnuts railier tlian candied.

Recipes courtesy of Australian Ben-ies

DECEMBER 2013 27

BOOKS

Concept of karma explained The protagonist's journey towards seeking spiritual awakening explores the basic tenets of Hinduism

. .................................................................................................................... . ,. '1

~

~

!

I

-li

,\;,, -

a message from APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of India

BY PRIYADARSHINI CHIDAMBARANATHAN

.

here has been a proliferation of books on sptrimality and religion recently, carering co d1ose of us confused and weary with what life ilirows ar us, One book chat jotns this growing list is Tbe Sear-ch that Seeks )-011 by Sangamicbra Amudba.

The story revolves arom1d me experiences of the central character Karma, his spiritual awakening and journey through life. Karma is an engineering student who is disconsolate after his mod1et dies quite suddenly, A previous encounter at cbe Podhigai hills leads him to journey the.re again in search of something to calm his troubled heart. He meets a few ascetics who lead him towards a path of spitimality. He s carts to practise meditation, learns about controlfu1g bis thoughts and to keep calm, and focus on his goals. He also learns about 'karma' which is a central concept in the book. After a few days, be has to go back home to fulfil his 'material responsibilities'.

However Karma is a changed man, able to face any simation with a calm strength tbar astounds bis friends and relatives. The rest of d1e book talks abour his life after this experience. The book finallr comes full circle with him going back co the hills to join cbe ascetics.

T

The narrative is simple and me story Rows easily. The language does tend to get heavy and laboured in a few places, especially when concepts are being explained. This might be a fault of the translation, as the original was written in Tarnil.

The aud1or, Sangamithra

Amudha, is the founder and trustee of me Sanmarga Foundation, a Cbennai based organisation which teaches meditative teclrniques. She hersel f has been practising Kriya medication for some years now and has been a counsellor for over 15 years, according to the

organisation's website. A finalist at the International Book Awards 20'12, in the SpiriruaJiry category, the book has a fore\vord by Dr Abdul Kalam, and even a chapter about him.

She introduces certain basic concepts from Hinduism such as kar111a, and this book would certainly serve as a good introduction to people not familiar with them. The book que.~tions some of the ritualistic religious practices mat are a part of Hinduism, and emphasises the use of meditation and oilier introspective practices instead. The author talks about using medication and yoga as a tool to overcome problems chat people face everyday. ln her foreword she advises the reader co n ot just read tbe story, but ro place d1emselves in the position of the main procagonist and by comparing bis reactions to their own, they can learn somed1ing about themselves in die process.

Most of di e characters introduced teach the protagonist, Karma, something. The transformation that Karma undergoes is tocal and is sometimes a litde hard co believe.

The ending was rather rushed, and not very clearly dlOught out.

If die book was meant to guide people d10ugb dieLr life, then getting the main protagonist to abandon his wife and child m tl1e process, was not something I appreciated. Also, the reactions and behaviour of me women in cbe book are rather one-sided and caricatured, d isappointing in a book written by a woman herself.

If you are .looking for an easy

''

The story revolves around t he experiences of the central character Karma, his spiritual awakening and journey through life

''

introduction to me concept of kam,a, d1 is con.Id be the book for you. In describing a young boy's search for d1e trutl1, the boo k attempts co give people a way to look beyond their problems and find srrengtb \vithm t hem selves. All in all, iliis is a book that could start you on a spirimal quest and help you look for die answers wimin yourself.

''

If the book was meant to guide people though their life, then getting the main protagonist to abandon his wife and child in the process, was not something I appreciated

''

• • •••• • •••••••••• • •••••••• • ••••••• •• •••••••••••• • ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ••• ••• • •• ••• ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

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INDIAOZ

17,700kms and counting!

A trio of enthusiastic young men undertake a staggering journey across the globe in a 4x4

ver since Galileo's discovery that the world was indeed round, people have dreamt of circumnavigating the globe. Over the centuries many such journeys have been made by land, sea and air, and each has irs unique features. Currently in Australia are three young men from India who have embarked on ao epic jow:ney to travel round the world by road. lt might seem an insane fantasy, but the Great lnclian \Xlodd Trip is well and truly on its way. The drive will cover a staggering 7Ll,U00kms oo roads across the globe that range from being smooth as silk to unpaved ones that will trn.ly test the driving skills of rhese young men, and the 4x4 itself.

The days and nights will unfold across the skies of 50 counu-ies and 6 continems, with our intrepid young men meeting and associacing with different peoples,

E

INDIAN LINK

races, languages and foods. Surely it takes a steely toughness to w1dertake such a project.

Tushar Agarwal, Sanjay Madan, Prasad and thei r trusted 4\,'vD form the team of this world trip.

The stated motivation for the journey is an attempt to challenge the common man's definition of d1e NRI. It's aa endeavour to see beyond the glitz associated wi th the concept of the NRJ. The ream intend ' .. . to interact with such Indians settled the world over and find out how life is treating them'. Ulcin1ately they wish to ger an idea of how Rls are faring in their chosen lands. So why do I get the sneaking feeling that it is the lure o f an exciting adven nire with all the risks involved in doing some thing breathtakingly huge, that is the true motivation for this enormous journey? \Xlith such a ven ture full of challenges, it is e.'lsy to envisage the rush of adrenalin one might feel as one starts to wonder whether the project will succeed. There can also be the d esire to test oneself. \Xlill the bod)' and mind be able co endure the strenuous schedule? Has the forward

planning accoumed for all the contingencies that might arise? To answer these questions can itself become a reason for undertaking such a journey.

The obvious question is - will the Great Indian World Trip succeed? Of course, one ca□ never predict the funire but it's very unlikely that o ur team will be the proverbial bunnies caught in the headliglus of a 4x4. The team's track record speaks for itself. Previously they had d riven 12,000km from London to Dell1i in .51 days. T hey have been part of the Indian team at the ASEA India Car Rally 2012, from Indonesia to India. One endearing achievement was the record-setting drive in the tiny Tata Nano to Khardung La Pass at 5600m on the highest motorable road. There have been many other record-breaking drives high up in the Himalayan ranges including to Mt Kailash and Mansarovar Lake, and down on the plains.

The team has also officiated in the most popular car rallies in India including Desert Storm and the Formula 1 race. Who would bet against Tushar, Madan and Ptasad

completing their current world trip?

Often it is wise not to gee too carried away by one's own lifestyle and the high-5s associated with it.

The glamour and adulation chat comes with undertaking a drive round die world can easily go to one's head. Those less fortunate and not in one's devared circle can often be forgotten and left behind. So it is very much to its credit that The Great lndian \Xlorld Trip has taken up the cause of the Guru Vishram Vrid h Ashram in Badarpur, Delhi. This ashram takes in the sick, the destitute, those with mental and physical ailinents, and provides a place of safety and shelter for the elderly.

These young men arc spreading awareness of the ashram, and providing a platform for the public to make donations to it via the J\shraa1's website.

The drive has already passed d'U'ough Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, covring nearly 7,000kms. "The 17,700km drive across Australia is an attempt to create a Guinness World Record," confirmed Tusbar. Ar the time of goi.ng to press, the

trio was beading to Sydney. Later they head to other coumries such as Tanzania and South Africa, which are home to wonderful wild life. Some countries being visited include those wid1 political tensions such as Kenya, Columbia and some in Central America.

The route goes from Alaska in the very north, to the somhern-rnost tips of South America and Somh Africa. From Alaska and California i.n d1e west to Sydney, far away in the ease. So many hours to sit in tbe driving seat as the world goes by. So many chance events that may take place with the joy of the accomplishmen t as it unfolds.

In the near furore I expect to meet the rrio co learn more about their stories; but in the meantime, I wish our adventurers well. To quote from their website V.'W\V. g reatindianwoddtrip.com: "Roads.

No Roads. T he expedition must go on. This can happen only when it's steered by men who believe in ir, powered by a machine char never lets them down and backed by a mechanism that keeps the engine roaring and wheels rolfu1g.

The Grear Indian World Trip is no e."ception".

DECEMBER 2013 29

BEAUTY

one

one

•••

It's natural, cost effective and can be great for your skin and hair dry and itchy. Honey cakes care of chat roo, and moistens the skin effective!y.

Honey highlights

h.ile many

natural ingredients work as worthy skin and hair care aids to improve our looks, thei-e are none as versatile as honey From a scrub, ro a hair mask, to an astringent, you can use this extremely underestimated yet wonderful gift of namre to improve your skin and hair. for those who like going back to the most original form of everything, raw honey would be the nanual choice. However, it can be

thicker than the processed variety we see on our supermarket shelves. le does conc.'l.in more enzymes than processed honey, but it is also more expensive. Having said that, processed honey is equally good to use as it is cheaper, retains most of its goodness and is easier to apply.

Most people who know about skincare will promptly tell you that honey is a namral moismriser. It is a known fact tl1at Cleopatra, the original beauty queen, was an authority on skincare tream1ents, and she used to bathe i.n a concoction of milk and honey.

Leaving it on your skin like a mask for even ten minutes will make your skin feel fresher and plumped up. That is because honey is a humecrnnt, it absorbs the moisnue from the air and transfers it onto ymu skin. For best results, apply

honey on slightly damp ski.n and leave on for as long as you can.

This will soften the skin and hydrate it and if you do it regularly, you will see the difference in a few days.

Honey is also effective for sensitive skin as it is gentle, so if you have spent coo long at the beach and are sunburnt, apply honey on tl1e sensitive areas to sootl1e the skin instantly.

In case those of you with oily skin think that honey is only good for people with dry skin, think again. Honey can be applied di.reedy onto pin1ples and acne as it contains antibacterial properties. It kills the bacteria and prevents the condition from spreading. Also, the creams we use to get rid of pimples often leave d1e skin around the pimple

• Use honey as a deanser, hair mask or even as a face scrub.

• To cleanse your skin wi th honey, first splash your face with water. Leave the hands wet and pour a fair amount of honey onto your palms. Apply all over your face like you would do witl1 your face wash. A lternative!); dil ute a little honey ,vith water and spread all over your face. Scrub in a circular motion for a few minutes and wash off. Only keep i.n mind tl1at because honey doesn't have any oil content, it is not useful to remove waterproof make up or sunscreen.

• To use as a moismriser, simply apply all over face ru1d neck and leave on till you shower.

• For your hair, mix a quarter cup of o live oil with half a cup of honey till they have blended well.

Then apply all over your hair and leave on for half an hour.

Wash and dry hair as you do normally.

• To make a face scrub, mix honey with a little granular brown sugar, add one spoon of lemon juice and a spoon of olive oil. Rub aU over yottr face and neck in a circular motio n to slough off dead skin cells.

• You can also make a lip balm with honey, brown sugar and olive oil to relieve dry and chapped lips.

So no matter what skin or hair type you have, this easy and natural remedy can make you look as sweet as honey!

INDIAN LINK: NEWS ON Tl-IE GO! OUR NE;:VVLV Dl:SIGNl:D \IVl:BSITE IS NOW AVAILABLE ACROSS A RANGE 01= PLATl=ORMS, INCLUDING SMART PI-IONES AND TABLETS Cl-l~CK US OUT AT WWW.INDIAN LINK.COM.AU

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· ··· · ·· · · · MATRIMONIALS SEEKING GROOMS

but caste and religion no bar. Available for

Bengalaru based Hindu Assamese family seek

Immediate contact on 0407 087 918.

an educated professional for their daughter. She is 28, 150cm, medium built, convent educated,

Fiji Indian male Hindu Australian citizen

PG ln Computer Application, employed In a

ln mid-forties Invites correspondence from

MNC as a SAP professional. Likes p hotography,

single o r divorced Indian females (no kids),

cooking, singing, and travelling.

for marriage and to settle in Melbourne. If

Please contact: pkbarah@gmail.com

Int erested p lease contact on 0478 083 457 for

or sheekhaa_ba rah@yahoo.co.in

further info.

Looking for a suitable Hindu (preferably Sindhi) Seeking bride for30-year-old Hindu Punjabi groom for my sister. She is 33, very beautiful,

boy of 5 feet 8 inches, who has a Bachelor

fair, Sindhi Luana, studied master's in gemology,

of Business in finance, and is a resident of

fluent in English, respects traditional values, lives

New Zealand. Working with global FMGC in

i n India (willing to move to Austra lia). Please

Auckland, earning 100k +NZD I per annum,

email: dharmmina@gmail.com (possibly with

looking for educated, outgoing, professional girl

BHP)/or call 0430 714 739.

In New Zealand or Australia.

Parents seeking match for fair, slim Hindu

Seeking suitable match for Punjabi Khatri

Sindhi g irl who is 33 years, 156cm working

33-year-old, 5'2"well qualified, fa ir slim,

as lecturer at a leading university. Permanent

beautiful, family orlented girl. Currently working

resident of Australia with dual degree M.Com

as an IT analyst in Sydney. Innocent divorce.

(Accounts and Finance), fond of sports, travelling

Well settled, qualified professional, with suitable

and cooking. We are a tight knit, professional

matrimony required. Caste no bar. Call

family. Please mail proposal w ith education, job

0413 820 305 or email biodata with photo to:

details and recent photo to: mohril 324@gma il.

matrimonial4alliance@gmail.com

com or call 0406 608146.

Seeking a bride for 30-year-old, 5'10~ based

SEEKING BRIDES

In Melbourne. ls a Aluwalia Sikh (clean shaved)

Matrimonial proposals are invited from single,

boy, well settled, educated and is looking for a

divorced or widowed Indian females and their

like w ise match. Please contact with full bio data

families for a matured Indian male who is fully

and photos to:justdoitjaspal@yahoo.com

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n TA K

Q TPR~DICTIONS !=OR ~-"--1,,1"""~......

ARIES March 21 - April 19 The cards are indicating that this month you will be in a very decadent mood, and relationships need to be handled with care. Work and career looks very promising, but keep a fine balance between both and do take care of your emotional wellbeing. There will be some exciting news about a new project or plan. You will be worried about someone in the family, but things will be fine by mid January.

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

By NANCY JADE ALTMEA

LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22

·,

The cards are indicating that this month it will be as though you are taking two steps forward and four back. You will be feeling full of energy towards the middle of the month, and dates and encounters will lead to some special people coming into your life. These in turn can lead to long-term liaisons. You have been in a lot of difficult situations with work pressure and financial burdens, but all will be okay.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21 The cards are indicating a time of trying to make things work in a more harmonious manner with your partner. There will be a time of strain after December 25 when you will feel pressure in your relationship once again. You will be keeping your eye on your investments and looking to stabilise your life. You may be looking for another job.

This month the cards are showing that you will be looking at making some important financial decisions. When signing documents it is important to make sure you read the fine print thoroughly. You need to make sure you keep exercising and eating healthy foods. You will be looking at taking up a new hobby or interest, and this will be very important as you have not been spending enough time with yourself.

CANCER June 21 - July 20

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19 The cards are indicating that this month will be one of romance and flirtations. A glance will lead to much more, so be prepared. There will be some interesting parties and social events that you will be attending. Work will be of prime concern and you will be looking at ways to bring in more money. You will be meeting some interesting people who will further your chances of success.

The cards are indicating that you are feeling romantic, and waht to feel loved and share your life with someone special.

There seems to be excellent news with regard to work, and promotion or recognition is on the cards. Financially, there will be a good chance of money coming your way. A new look and wardrobe will be on your mind, and you have decided to drop a few kilos.

LEO July 21 - Aug 22 The cards are indicating a time of getting papers in order with regards to property and taxes. Those of you in search of love will have some interesting liaisons with members of the opposite sex, where flirtation will turn into passion. Those who are married will reach a balance in your relationship and will continue to keep calm, while keeping the situation static. Look after your back and have some massages.

VIRGO Aug 23 - Sep 22 There is a fantastic month ahead, of feeling very settled and sexy. You will be feeling good about yourself, charged up and will bring in new ideas for increasing your income. You will decide to spend quality time with loved ones in the comfort of your own home. Life seems to be balanced and fun right now and you will enjoy being at home.

The cards are showing that the beginning of the month will bring up strong feelings of love and passion. You will want to make things more exciting and fun in your life. Avoid conflicting and heated situations as much as possible. There Is an indication that you may end up saying a lot of things you will bitterly regret. You are missing a family member.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21

The cards are indicating that as the year comes to a close, you seem to be feeling a little agitated and stressed. You will be looking to sorting things out with regards to relationships and work. Make sure you visit the doctor if you feel something is not right. There will be some good news from abroad, about a matter relating to property or business.

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

L.....>,~

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - f=eb 18 J

,

This month the cards are indicating a time of feeling a little restless, and wanting to travel and spend time with friends.

You are feeling very tired as you have been working hard all year round. Life will be a little unpredictable with some upsets in relationships. You will need to take some important decisions with regards to land and property. An elderly member is not too well.

PISCES f=eb 19 - March 20 The cards are indicating a time of feeling more inclined towards spirituality and meditation this month. You may find that you are interested in someone and an affair may start.

Take time to assess your situation as you will be totally driven by your heart this month. There will be some upset w ith a male child, but just keep an eye on things.

I-IOWNOTTO MAKE A ROM-COM GORI TERE PYAAR MEIN STARRING: Kareena Kapoor, Shradha Kapoor, lmran Khan DIRECTOR: Puneet Malhotra

1rlrlr:,z-:,z

II

ou remind me of Shabana Azmi;' guffaws our don'tgive-a-damn hero to the social activist heroine.

In the first-half they clash over id/is, ideologies and idle chatter. Mismatched as they are, and we are reminded twice that she is older, Kareena Kapoor-Khan and Im ran Khan trudge along cutely till mid-point after which the narrative shuffles noisily into a village in Gujarat where it all falls apart.

You know a film is going wrong when the lead pair just don't seem made for each other, not because that's the way their roles are written, but because the actors playing the characters seem to belong to two different planets.

Someday producer Karan Johar can tell us why he decided to cast the incandescent Kareena Kapoor with lmran Khan. Not just in one but two of his productions within one year, both about a chirpy gregarious chick and a moneyed inhibited guy.

While researchers and theorists await results on what this Khan and Kapoor are doing together there is this film going by the archaic and utterly uninspiring title of Gori Tere Pyaar Mein.

He is commitment-phobic. She is a social activist. Rather, a loud caricature of a social activist. What Shabana Azmi would have been if her speeches were written by Karan Johar.

34 DECEMBER 2013

Kareena is dressed for the part and seems to make all the right moves. But why do we get the feeling she cares as much for the upkeep of the village and its gobar population as she did for the political degeneration of apna bharat mahaan in Satyagraha?

Kareena carries the face of a woman who would rather be anywhere than where this vapid script puts her. A pity, since her eyes and beauty can launch a thousand ships. In this film they can't even launch a leaky paper boat.

This is the film where everything in sight sinks. The viewer's heart, to begin with.

What strikes you repeatedly is the sheer nullity of the story. She loves to be passionate about everything to do with the downtrodden. He couldn't care less about female foeticide, child molestation, elevator rape, or whatever her next anti-exploitationjehad may be.

Come to think of it, Kareena's missionary zeal could have been the stuff rib-tickling satires are made of.

Tragically director Pu nit Malhotra seems dead serious about his heroine's activism. Rather than becoming the bemused bystander alongside the hero (who looks like the goofy Sunil Dutt in Khandaan and Padosan), the script elects to go with the heroine's solemn selfrighteousness. So we are supposed to watch Kareena's righteous indignation with a straight face.

We end up laughing at all the wrong cues. The timing goes horribly awry as

the film progresses. The sanctimonious heroine's attempts to be funny and committed at the same time reminds you of a restaurant that serves kebabs and pastas at the cost of one meal.

This is a film that had the potential for being genuinely funny and warm.

It also has the very lovely Shradha Kapoor trying hard to keep her inherent grace intact in a script that manoeuvres through a string of antics based on cultural and economic disparity. It squanders the satirical potential in trying to be cleverer than the audience.

There is a prominently pickled preinterval moment where Im ran Khan's under-committed character is mockurged by his kith and kin to run away from his marriage mandap.

Our hero Sree Ram (a.k.a Sridevi, for some secretly funny reason) takes the

mock-ritual seriously and flees out of the marriage. That, you see the problem. That moment becomes symptomatic of all the wrong turns that the script takes in trying to be funny, savvy, sassy and smart.

Moments that are meant to be bitingly urbane and tongue-in-cheek end up being as flat as pancakes cooked for breakfast served in the evening. A bridge built in an impoverished village meant to be symbolic of the lead pair's differing priorities, becomes a feeble attempt at profundity in a film that cannot avoid shallowness.

But all is well at the end. The film's love-birds live happily ever after.

Wish the same were true of the fate of rom-com in Bollywood.

SUBHASH K. JHA

www.indianlink.com.at

-

•:.•

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FOR IPI-IONE, IPAD AND ANDROID

Karisma and her cause Actress Karisma Kapoor, who is choosy about her performances, actually bent the rules for Our Girl Our Pride, an initiative to empower the girl child. She said it's also a 'tribute to all the ladies'from her family.

"It was a fabulous day and I strongly believe in the cause.

I generally don't perform. I am quite choosy about it, but today I performed and paid tribute to all the Kapoor ladies, including (late grandmother) Geeta Bali, (aunt) Neetu Singh, and my mom Babita and sister Kareena supporting the cause," said Karisma, known for her powerpacked performances in Fiza and Zubeidaa. The actress performed as part of a unique programming initiative of NDTV, which in association with Vedanta and campaign ambassador and actress Priyanka Chopra, dedicated Dec 1 to honour the country's girls on its network channels with a live telecast from 10am. The campaign's aim is to create awareness about issues related to the girl child and fight for her rights.

Karisma who is also a mother, says her life completely changed after the birth of her daughter Samaira. "My life has become more beautiful after giving birth to a daughter. It's great to have a daughter;' she said and added, "I am blessed to have a daughter and a son''.

Other participants in the initiative included actress Kajol, and tennis Grand Slam champion Sania Mirza, among others.

Isn't it great to see Bollywood's belles getting into the groove to support India's girl children? Good on you, Karisma!

Love is lost on Deepika

PALLAVI SET FOR TAMIL DEBUT esharam girl and our very own Pallavi Sharda has been roped in by filmmaker Gautham Vasudev Menon for his yet untitled Tamil romantic drama. The film also features Silambarasan aka Simbu. "I wanted a heroine who could give us bulk dates and I know for a fact that all the established actresses are extremely busy, and therefore, I roped in Pallavi.

Moreover, when I met her, I liked her confidence and eventually signed her on," Menon said recently.

Pallavi, who had earlier starred in films such as My Name is Khan and Dus Tola, has already shot for nearly two weeks for the film, which was launched recently and is expected to be completed by February 2014.

Looks like Melbourne girl Pallavi is ready to take on not just Bollywood, but the Indian film industry!

B

36 DECEMBER 2013

Deepika Padukone is riding high on a string of successful movies, is certainly not keen on wasting time on a romantic relationship.

"I don't think I am ready for a relationship at the moment. I don't think my career has anything to do with my relationship. It's just that I am in a happy space right now and not ready to be in a relationship," said the 27-year-old actress.

Deepika, who had a roaring relationship with actor Ranbir Kapoor in the past, said, "I think igniting the spark means keeping the romance alive in your relationship by doing the unexpected.

Surprise your partner in pleasant ways, something that he or she wouldn't anticipate".

"Nowadays, couples tend to take each other for granted because they feel they know each other inside out which results in loss of spark and enthusiasm in the relation. The second most important thing is to not lose yourself. Take care of yourself, your space and only then

DEEPIK.A PADUK.ONE

will you be able to take care of your relationship''.

Meanwhile Deepika is basking in the success of her latest release Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-lee/a. Her fluid and energy-packed dance in the Nagada sang dhol song from the movie has been widely appreciated, but she doubts if she can recreate the grandeur of the number in other performance forums sans the film's director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. She says the song's popularity was the "least expected of the lot''.

On the Bollywood front, she has completed Homi Adajania's English language film Finding Fanny, which should release soon. "I am also doing Happy New Year with Abhishek Bachchan and Shah Rukh, all fun boys to work with.

I am also looking forward to start lmtiaz's film with Ranbir,"said Deepika, whose flight of fame seems to be reaching new heights.

So is there any chance of a holiday sometime soon? "I am sure I can squeeze in some family time, it's always welcome;' said the 27-year-old.

Well, we hope 2014 is a hit for this young, talented actress.

Kareena goes crazy!

In what will be a completely different avatar, Kareena Kapoor-Khan will be reinvented in Dev Benegal's fi lm Bombay Samurai. Post-marriage, she seemed to flounder in her choices with a halfhearted crusader's role in Prakash Jha's Satyagraha and the totally inane social activist's role in Gori Tere Pyaar Mein. With Bombay Samurai, Kareena fina lly seems to have got her post-marriage formula right.

According to sources, the film is "a crazy zany rollicking rollercoaster ride with amazing twists and turns. There are seven to eight pivotal characters. But Kareena and Farhan (Akhtar) preside

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PRIY ANKA CHOPRA KARISMA KAPOOR KAREENA KAPOOR Priyanka on her perfect partner over the show. They play a couple like no other seen before in our films. They are wacky and unpredictable. The two actors will have a ball p laying their outgoing zestful characters;' the source added. Both Kareena and Farhan were keen to work with one another. "I've seen Kareena's work. She is consistently excellent. I was keen to work w ith her. Dev's film gives us a chance to try something different:' said Farhan.

And of course, Kareena expressed the highest admiration for Farhan, "I admire Farhan for being multi-talented. Which other director has done so well as an actor?

The Farhan-Kareena film starts after Kareena's annual holiday in Switzerland in December where she sneaks off without fail every year, to enjoy her annual Christmas-New Year holiday in Switzerland with husband Saif Ali Khan.

So get ready to see Kareena in crazy, zany mode!

"My partner should be a male version of me;' said actress Priyanka Chopra when asked recently on what she was lo.oking for in a prospective life partner.

The actress admits that she has a long list of benchmarks, so watch out boys, this lady isn't going to be easy to please.

"I have a very long list and very high standards. He has to be a gentleman, he has to be intelligent, someone I respect and funny, not stupid funny but witty funny, charming;' the 31-year-old said recently.

Priyanka added that it does not matter whether he is an actor or not, but she "would never respect a guy who is not an achiever''.

Let's wish Priyanka luck in finding her Mr Me!

Bachchan at his best Megastar Amitabh Bachchan delivered the Penguin Annual Lecture 2013 podium, much to the joy of an eclectic

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audience of almost a thousand, and left them more star-struck as he spoke about empowering the country's women, Indian cinema, poetry and more.

The 71-year-old, looking handsome in a black formal suit presented the lecture at the Thyagaraj Stadium in New Delhi.

He touched upon his memories of his father, the late legendary poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, whose birth anniversary was on Nov 27. "A decade without him;' sighed Amitabh as he shared some of his conversations with his father during the lecture.

Releases roundup The Bollywood filmmaking scene is buzzing currently, with anticipation for some and disappointment for others.

FilmmakerTigmanshu Dhulia's much anticipated Bullett Raja didn't quite shatter the box office as many expected, but it did reasonably well by earning about Rsl 3 crore in just two days after its release. Wonder if that made Dhulia happy or sad?

The film starring Saif Ali Khan and Sonakshi Sinha is based in a small town in Uttar Pradesh, and has been described as a feast of guns, grime, and glory.

R... Rajkumar starring Shahid Kapoor and again, Sonakshi Sinha will release soon, and sources say that it's a very impressive crime thriller. Being a Prabhudheva film, there is a lot of hope from the film, as he has a reputation for solid box office hits.

The Aamir Khan-starrer action thriller Dhoom 3 will hit screens on December 20, and will see Aamir in a negative role.

This is another sure-hit film, say pundits, what with Aamir's renowned Midas touch.

Director-producer Anubhav Sinha is gearing up for the release of his Madhuri Dixit-starrer production Gulaab Gang, about the women vigilante group. Sinha has directed Shah Rukh Khan-starrer superhero film Ra.One and multi-starrer Dus, so this may be his next hit. Gulaab Gang is directed by Soumik Sen and will see Madhuri as the protagonist, while Juhi Chawla will be seen as the antagonist.

So that's what Bollywood has in store for its fans, watch this space for more movie masala . ..

DECEMBER 2013 37

BACKCHAT

resents Christmas is a time to be generous, so here is a leisurely list of gifts fit for po/lies, princes and PMs

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However, a red truck, apart from being a colour mismatch with his philosophy, is not a toy befitting the Lodge

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BY AVER

don't know about other Stare capital ciries, bur in Adelaide we are reminded of Christmas approaching as early as the first week of November when one of the city's biggest pageant rolls down irs main thoroughfares. lr is eid1er to belp d1e locals plan ilieir shopping strategy in advance, or for retailers to raid our credit cards sooner than others.

With our two children having grown out of the 'can-we-have-a peek' stage, we now need to ponder over presents for only our two grandchiklten. Lucky, in a sort of way. So with some shopping time spared, I indulged in a whimsical exercise of what would be on the wish-list of those who appear, at the Aick of a button, on the slim screen in our lounge rooms around dinnertime.

Who else can you think of fuse, other than the captain of our ship

I

38 DECEMBER 2013

for the next d1ree years? Initially ir seemed so easy to cboose something for this acrion man who can sprint, swin1 and surf. Ir may be tokenistic to buy a bike or boogie board since he will have a stack of them. Having proven his skill in purring out bush fires, a fire truck may be a fitting present.

In his current position he will be called upo n to puc our scrub fires wimin his party ranks or on ilie national and international arenas.

However, a red truck, apart from being a colour mismatch with his philosophy, is n ot a toy befitting me Lodge.

On second tboughrs, he may be happy ro get a couple of leaky (ab)boats built at some Jakarta backyard. H is plans ro buy every rickety raft from Indonesia having been torpedoed by his Bambang buddy, a couple of rusty boats will be a welcome present ro be proudly berd1ed at me Kirribilli waterfront. The Opposition leader may even dip into his ParLiamentary aUowance to gift one U boar to taunt him on some policy u-turns. o bloke in his \Vildesr dream will be eager to receive a letter

from bis mother-in-law. Bur not this gu y, whose mother-in-law is d1e Q ueen's rep io Oz. Short in name but not in stature, be would dearly love to get one inviting him to form d1e goverrunent. Bur such an invite may take another three years or more in the coming. He may not receive one at all if he gets d1e same treatment be mered out to his previous leaders. Until d1e Still shines on his patch, me best gift for him will be a hank of solar panels so that he may not receive or be caJJed electricity bill..

Zip. A n1etre- long zip is the ideal presem for the one who delivered a 22-minute speech, sounding like a victor after badly losing me electoral race, to shut bis trap. lt will best complement d1e ' will mis guy ever stop' badge earned in a TV debate. Firringly be ended his last Parliamentary speech wid1, 'gotta zip!'

Rudderless, once again ...

For our own Adelaide girl, who once beld court in Canberra, a seat on the State's High Court may be a long- term drean1. The grey wig rhat goes with mat job will help ro cover her 'ranga' hair.

In rhe meantime, a ser of shatp

knives for tbe kitchen bench at J's $2million seaside mansion wiU do, since me one she used earlier did not finish d1e job and d1e victim came back, only brieAy though!

More d1an anyone above, d1e person who deserves a good gift from Santa is a pensioner- prince wbo Lives nqt far from me Old Man's North Pole. Having recendy reached the pension age of 65 without doing a da)?S work for which he was destined at birth, this (bonny prince) C harlie has now gai ned the dubious honour o f being me longest waiting heir ro the d1.rone. A replica throne dropped t hrough the chimney at his pal.ace Clarence House will be Santa's gift o f the year for this new grandfather, before his grandson stakes his claim. A crown, even an imitarion one, will be a bonus.

Adorning his crown wim nothing but a blue turban, the soft-spoken Sardar who presides over a billion people could do with some other colour for a change. Bur what colour? Wid1 ilie election battle soon to begin, white may be seen as a sign of surrender and black a sure sign

A metre-long zip is the ideal present for the one who delivered a 22-minute speech, sounding like a victor after badly losing the electoral race, to shut his trap

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of mourning, anticipating a loss of me race. So sticking wim blue will be the Man's preferred cboice, banking on his reserved temperament.

Mo(d)ivated strongly to become the next prime minister, this Gujarati generalissimo will serde for nothing but the Delhi 'd11d1al, while a certain mother will be wishing drnt her son gets it as sort of family's binl1rjghr.

Oops, I have indulged in d1is fanciful exercise for too Jong. lt is rime to tl1ink of Chrissie p ressies for my grandkids. Gotta zip!

Season's greetings to aJ1 readers.

A loving fanuly is d1e best present anyone can wish for.

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