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INDIAN LINK PUBL.IS�ER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra.

ASSISTANT EDITOR. Kira Spucys-Tahar MELBOURNE COORDIN,ATOR Preeti Jabbal CONTRIBUTORS Aparna Ananthuni, Sargun Bhatia, ,Mohan Dhall, Jyoti Shankar, Nanditha Suresh, Sondarya Krishnan, Dhanya Samuel, Sandip 1--lor, Ravinder Singh Jabbal ADVERTISING MANAGER Vivek Trivedi 0410 578 146 ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Preeta Nair 02 _9279 2004 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT · Beh��hta Wasseh Indian Link is a fortnightly newspaper published. in English. No material, including· advertisemen_ts designed by Indian Link, may be �eprodu�ed in· part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Opinions carried in Indian Link are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by India,{ . Link... AII correspondence shou_ld be addressed to•

Indian link Level 24/44 Market St, Sydney 2000 or GPO Box 108, Sydney 2001 Ph: 02 9279·2004 l=ax: 02 9279:' 2005 Email: info@indianlink.corri.au·

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NSW ovt needs anln ia strategy

BY PAWAN LUTH RA

F

ormer Premier Mike Baird \Vas much admired in the state's Indian community: he was seen as an e.xtremeJy efficient and approachable Premier of NS\X( He did much for che Indian-Australian community, but unlike his predecessors, seemed to show a lack of urgency for building and strengthening the relationship which was being developed between NSW and India.

Over the years, the political leaders of NSW have recognised the face that it will be to their advantage to have a stronger bilateral connection in trade and commerce with lndia. With over 180,000 people of Indian origin now living in the state, it makes sense to develop deeper bonds between d1e number one state in Australia and India. Many areas have been identified where chere are ample oppornmities for NSW to offer its expertise to lnclia - financial services, smarter cities, skills and training etc.

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In fact, these were raised when Indian PM Modi visited Australia in 2014 and interacted with leading NSW politicians including Mike Baird, then in charge of the state.

The former premier also met with the Indian PM during his maiden visit to India in 2015. Modi dien invited him back every year co build on the $1.8 billion trade between SW and India. Now two years down the track, a return visi[ by the former premier has not been possible and by all accounts, with the current change to a new Premier, it does not seem to be a high priority for the government.

The positive move by Baird to build a stronger relationship be[weeo NSW and India was the appointment of his predecessor Barry O'Farrell as special trade envoy to India. Barry is well known for his passion for all things Indian and also has been a frequent visitor to India.

It is good to note this continuity beyond the current political changes.

But for those within the corridors of Macquarie Scree[ who wish to progress mis relationship to a stronger level, there needs [O be a renewed vision of engaging with India. On a people-to-people level, there seem to be considerable resources being spent in neighbouring Victoria to build up their brand with

India. With events such as [be hugely successful Indian International Film Festival completing it.s fifth year, and the upcoming partnership of Melbourne Wri[ers Festival with world renowned Jaipur Literarure Festival, NSW is losing out in me soft power engagement wim India. The cwo cultural offerings Parramasala (which is now being diluted of its Indian heritage) and che lighting of Opera House for Diwali - seem to be the only two SW engagements with India.

With the changing of the guard, it is an opportunity to look at how to further the relationship between the two. The state's trade with India is nm going anywhere fast and we are not developing our soft power potential. Even at a federal level, there seems [O be a gap after d1e changeover from former PM Abbott, who was pa.ssionate abom working with India, to current Pl\,[ Turnbull, who to date has not shown any excitement about India. One of the best advocates of building a stronger relationship, Australian Trade J\,linister Andrew Robb has left politics.

In a year where one suspects in[ernational relations will be abou[ all things Tnm1p, it will be a good opportunity to create a long term niche in d1e relationship between NSW and India.

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JANUARY (2) 2017 5

• Indian Linlt

LINKING INDIA WITH AUSTRALIA

SPECIAL FEATURES MAINSTREAM Indian family in Bourke St tragedy

VIEWPOINT Why we must acknowledge country

WORI{ Meet Paramvir Chattwal, Custodial Officer

SPORT Indian players at the .Aus Open

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YOUR SAY

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MAN ISH MALHOTRA LAUNCHES VIRTUAL REALITY FASHION SHOW

Ace Indian fashion designer Manish Malhotra launched his virtual reality fashion show, filmed at last year's Lakme Fashion Week.

Maqsood Godll wrote: Manish Malhotra is one of the best designers of

India and has designed dresses for Bollywood celebrities. The idea of a virtual reality platform for the fashion week and show is to let everyone feel like they are there at the show. My hearty wishes for success and congrats to the planners and programmers and sponsors.

ERA OF DHONl'S CAPTAINCY IN INDIAN CRICKET COMES TO AN END Dhoni steps down as the skipper of India's OD/ and T20 International sides

Datwanl Chand wrote: Salute to the determined Sultan: let's hope many

more are generated with him as a precedent.

HSC: LESSONS ABOUT MYSELF

Students from the community who completed Year 12 with outstanding results shared their insights Into surviving the final year of school

Varun Thakkar wrote: I wish, in my final year of school, I was aware of all

the career options available in Australia as well as overseas and also at what universities, their fees, duration and how exactly would it be useful in life and also what prospects they hold!

DEMONETISATION: WHATS IN IT FOR US, MR MODI?

PA WAN LUTH RA was in conversation with Indian television personality and current affairs commentator Abhigyan Prakash

Sanjeev Agarwallast wrote: Where is Abhigyan...? We would like to see

him, we need such people to save our country! Please do not quit!

Vlkas Saxena wrote: The interview does not give the right balance of view

in my opinion, too many questions on a particular individual and not on the topic at hand.

NRI OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

With all they have to offer, the diaspora should be better engaged by the Indian government, wrote PA WAN LUTHRA

Jay Shah wrote: While the government is trying to engage much more that

previous governments, why can't we start doing our bit proactively? There is much we can do without government intervention. In fact, the discourse should be how we can come together and make a difference when so much change is happening already.

8 JANUARY (2) 2017

GOT A CONFIDENTIAL NEWS TIP?

Do you have the next big story? Want to share It with lndlan Link Media Group?

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Email us on info@indianlink.com.au, call us on 02 9279-2004, o r follow us on Facebook o r Twitter.

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mainstream

Hope amidst tragedy

Australians show their true spirit in the face of the Bourke Street incident

BY PREETI JABBAL

A

t1stralians, especially those living in Melbourne, have been united in shock, grief and condemnation of the Bourke Street tragedy that resulted in five fatalities and injuries to multiple pedestrians who were ploughed down by a motorist. Netbra Krishnamurthy, a yow1g Indian mother, was among the shoppers, rourists and workers who fell victim to chis senseless act.

In an incident chat shook the entire city, 26-year-old Dimitrious Gargasoulas allegedly drove his car into the busy Bourke Street Mall, deliberately striking pedestrians after lunchtime on Friday 20 January. He was witnessed doing doughnuts with his vehicle outside the busy Flinders Street Station prior to the crash.

Victoria Police have charged him with five counts of murder for killing Matthew Si (33), Jess Mudie (22) Thaila Ha.kin (10) and Zachary Bryant (3 months) as well as an as-yet mi.identified 25-year-old man. About 30 people were injured; many survivors are still receiving treaanent in hospital including Nethra Krishnanmrthy.

Nethra is currently undergoing treatment at the Alfred Hospital for her injuries. She has multiple spinal and rib fractures, a punctured lw1g and lacerations on her liver, kidney, intestine and scalp. She has been through many surgeries and her medical

10 JANUARY (2) 2017

treatment will continue. lt is expected to be a long road to recovery. etbra is an IT consultant who migrated co Australia from Mysore, Karnataka and moved to Melbotirne in 2012. She is married to Mohan Kumar and tl1ey have an eight­ month-old son, Hari. She had just fitiished feeding her cliild who was in a daycare and was returning to work when the tragedy occurred. Her husband was \,rich her, however he was tmharmed in the incident.

"I was lucky to niiss the impact but unlucky enough to witness tl1e massacre first hand," he said in his social media post inforniing people about his wife's wellbeing. "l would have done everything I could and leave everytlii.ng I have co prevent this from happeiiing to her," he added as he thanked everyone for their concern, care and support.

According to updates ethra had her ventilaror, lung and nasogastric mbes removed recently and is able to talk and drink Au.ids. She is expected co undergo plastic sttrgery for the lacerations on her scalp.

Friends and Mohan's mother, who reaclied Melbourne soon after the tratunatic incident, are caring for her child.

Tliis unprecedented tragedy has impacted many families and the outpouring of support from the commmiity has been enormous.

The floral tributes, messages of hope, condolences, letters and funds are pouring in for aU those affected. Vigils and memorials were held to honour the innocent victims of tl1e rampage.

Saddened and concerned, the Australian community has dug deep into their pockets co donate co the victims. At last count over $700,000 had been raised for tl1em within a couple of days.

A fundraising can1paign \Vas also created

for Nethra and her family. ExceedING its original goal in the first few days with nearly 2000 donations, So far, over 5.5K people have shared the campaign link and there has been an overwhelming response for tl1e young faniily during tliis tragic time. To continue die support donations can be made at mycause.com.au.

Besides the grief, there is growing anger at tl1e accused, Dirnitrious Gargasoulas, who was released by a bail justice days before he aJJegedJy caused tl1is incident. There is an increasing demand from tl1e community to review die bail system and make amendments or overhaul current structures to protect people from violent offenders.

Amidst che backlash, me Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has pledged a

full examination of the bail system and establishment of an after-hours magistrate,5' court. The night court will consider bail applications for people charged with \riolent crimes when police oppose bail. Leader of Opposition Matthew Guy also proposed a 'one strike and you're out' policy and presw11ption of remand for those charged with violent offences.

As the stories of the victims unfold tl1ere is much heartbreak; however, shining ilirougb aJJ di.is is the indomitable spirit of tl1e people of Melbourne. Kudos to those heroes and wonderful people who reached om to help rhe victims on tl1e day the tragedy occurred and those who continue to work tirelessly to care for them. Humanity is alive and kicking.

Taking care of Bourke Street Families The Victorian Government has set up a 'Bourke St Fund' for families affected by the tragic incident. It will work in addition to existing compensation being made available through the Transport Accident Commission (tAC) and WorkSafe Victoria.

For those who lost loved ones following the tragic events of Friday, people physically injured and witnesses, the TAC can cover the cost of: • Ambulance and hospital care • Rehabilitation services, including physic and psychologists • Counselling for individuals, families and couples • Additional medical services, including surgery, pathology and GP visits • Prescribed medication • Travel expenses to and from medical appointments • Loss of wages • Funerals and lump sum payment to dependants WorkSafe will provide similar assistance for people who were at work, on their lunch break and were affected by the incident.

Anyone directly impacted by the incident is encouraged to call the TAC as the first point of contact during business hours on 1300 654 329 to discuss their needs.

Anyone who wants to make a donation can do so the Victorian Government's website, www.vic.gov.au/bourkestreeLhtml or by calling 1800 226 226.

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JANUARY (2) 2017 11

cover story

GENERAL PRACTICE AS WELL AS SOCIAL WORK

Dr Purushottam Sawrikar, OAM

For service to medicine, and to the Indian community of Sydney ow clid Dr Sawt:ikar feel when he heard the news that he had won an Australia Day honour?

"Honoured, but mostly surprised. . . and also motivated co cake on some more projects!"

Purushortam Sawrikar, general practitioner, has been a social work enthusiast ever since he arrived here in 1972 from Hyderabad in India.

"I love interacting with people. Social work is something that has been a part of my life since I was a school kid. It continued through my university days and as a young adult." There was much opportunity in India for this tO find outlet.

As a doctor, preventive medicine became one of Dr Sawrikar's passions and he cook the message of improving quahty of life to the people through the media.

On radio, pt:int, TV and through audio CDs, Dr Sawrikar reached out to tbe Indian community in Sydney on health-related issues.

On his Marathi radio show on 98.5 FM Akashvani Sydney, on the Kannada language Cbandana and on Channel 31, he produced and directed shows about participating in government-initiated health and screening programs such as those for bowel cancer, breast cancer and the Mother's Day \'(lalk in Parramatta. These shows helped create awareness an10ngst newly arrived migrants on a variety of topics. Some of his memorable sho\vs have been about what to do when a heart attack occurs, our predisposition to diabetes, bow ro stave off depression, and age-related eye disorders.

Many of tl1ese programs were turned into resource materials for distribution at surgeries and at community functions.

Ar large-scale community events, Dr Sawrikar organised for free health clinics on BP and diabetes.

As executive member and president of the Australian Indian lv[edical Graduates Association AIMGA, Dr Sawrikar advocated on behalf of India-trained doctors who found it hard to qualify for

nr

12 JANUARY (2) 2017

registration.

"We liaised with ministers and helped organise clinical attachments at a time when the draconian registration process was causing some clistress."

He was also instrumental in organising overseas conferences and seminars for AIMGA, especially a particularly successful one witb the Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO) in 2014.

Another project, creating a directory of Indian doctors in Australia, also met with much success: two editions were created, in 2003 and in 2013.

,, As executive member and president of the Australian Indian Medical Graduates Association AIMGA, Dr Sawrikar advocated on behalf of India-trained doctors who found it hard to make registration ,,

What does the future hold for Dr Sawrikar?

"I'm 71 now, and lately the issue of aged care bas begun to interest me. I'd like to explore further tl1e government initiatives that are in place such as MyAgedCare and help popluarise them in our community.

As well, I would like to aid the creation of volunteer teams within the community that can take 011 some of the burden of caring for our seniors."

Given he is still working 12-hour days most days, wonder when this new project will rake off.

Rajni Anand Luthra

www.indianlink.com.au

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REMOVING DISPARITIES IN HEALTH CARE

Dr Ranjana Srivastava, OAM

For service to medicine, particularly in the field of doctor­ patient communication

A

s an oncologist and a medical writer, Ranjana Srivastava claims it was her experiences as a patient that influenced how her career ultimately shaped om. Her doctor's demeanour as he delivered bad news - his "unflinching truth" and his tears - sparked a lasting professional passion for doctor-patient communication.

Today the Melbourne-based doctor has won acclaim not only for her work in the field, but also for her turn i.n the media as ptint columnist, radio presenter, television host and expect commentator, and of course as author of four well-received books.

Her OAM honour this year tops an ever-growing list of awards that includes academic honours, prizes in literature, 'women of influence' mentions and distinguished uni alumni awards.

"I'm very humbled, and a little thrilled," she cells Tndian Link.

It is clear from Dr Srivastava's work that being a good doctor, is all about the patient. "I want to demystify medicine to the general public. Thar's what good medicine is about - having a hand in one's own health."

The "asymmetry in medicine between doctor and patient" is a source of concern for Dr Srivastava.

"Taking the patient's perspective increases their own understanding of the situation. There is better compliance, and better participation in their own health care.

It also aids them in leading a good life, and also having a good death. It's important to define their role in the process, because ultimately heald1 is a shared responsibility."

Her commitment to dealing direcdy wid1 disparities in health care has also motivated Dr Srivastava to take up a variety of other roles, such as helping mose that need immediate help. She has volumeered at natural disaster zones, and works with the Asylum Seekers Centre.

Mentoring younger doctors is anomer aspect along the same lines. "l\,figrant doctors especially have a tough time," she observes. "Those of us who

NATIONAL EDITION

know the ropes must support them in whatever way possible. \Xie all help create a good doctor, and all of society benefits.

I'm drawn to the experiences of migrant doctors because I identify with tbem."

Dr Srivastava has spoken often about the role good mentors have played in her own life as a student and as a medical practitioner.

As well, she is not averse to speaking up about racism - and sexism - in the medical fraternity.

"AIJ of this ties in with my passion for medical ethics, really," she concludes. "That is why there is something very special about being a migrant and being recognised (on Australia Day), in terms of what we can give back to this country."

Her writing, with straightforward but captivating tides (D)'i11gfora Chat: The

Co1111111111ict1tion Breakdown Bet1veet1 DoctoJJ and Pt1tie11ts-, TellJvie the Tmtb: Conversations with ti{)' Patients Aho11t Life and Death; So It's Cm1ce1; Now lV"hat? and After Ca11cer: A Guide to U11i11g Wei� may have given her a

,, 'For a good doctor, humility, compassion and integrity never go out of fashion ,, fan following outside d1e hospital scenario and in writers' festivals across d1e nation, but it is medicine chat is her first love. "l'vfedicine is the fulfilling career; all else is icing on d1e cake," she reveals. '1 always dreamt of becoming a doctor, even though l've been writing since l was five or six."

Dr Srivastava was born in Canberra but grew up in India, U K and the US as she travelled with her academic parents. Ar l 7, she returned to Australia to study medi.cine at Monash University.

"I'm grateful to my parents who took me rotmd the world, caught me resilience

and to cope with change by role modelling it for me," she recounts. "They also taught me to keep in touch with my roots. My work has increasingly begun to rake me back to India. I was there only recendy: as a visiting scholar at the University of Chicago, I was speaking at their Delhi centre about medical ethics. I think it is important to pay tribute to ,vhere you come from and to your heritage. For instance, I'm married to an Ausrralian bur my kids speak Hindi. Best of both worlds, I'd say."

What advice would she have for young doctors scarring out?

"Firsdy, always remember that it is an incredible privilege co do medicine.

For every person d1at gets in, there are 100-150 aspirants who have missed out.

Second, don't underestimate the power of compassion and integrity. It's what patients most remember most about their doctor.

For a good doctor, humility, compassion and integrity never go our of fashion."

Rajni Anand Luthra

JANUARY (2) 2017 13

cover story

PROMOTING NUCLEAR MEDICINE Prof. Vijay Kumar, AM

For service to medical research in the disciplines of nuclear medicine and biology, to professional organisations, and to the community ome of Life's extraordinary moments happen when you least expect them.

Sydney-based radiopharmaceutical scientist Dr. Vijay Kumar was travelling in Europe when he learned from his wife Shan that he had been picked for an AM honour this Australia Day. It is an honour only a select few from the coLmtry are bestowed with.

The road to this glorr has been a long and memorable one.

It was in 1974 that a young Vijay arrived in this country as a bright-eyed research scholar from Tamil l adu.

"I came here on a scholarship to do my PhD at the Australian National University in Canberra," he recounts co Indian Llnk.

Today, his career spanning more than 40 years has given him soli.d expertise in the field of nuclear medicine. Dr. Vijay owes a lot of his professional success and exposure to \Xlestmead Hospital and The Children's Hospital \Xlescrnead. "Nuclear medicine is a very niche area, which uses radioactive medicines to treat specific diseases. It can improve the treatment and palliative care of patients significantly and also reduce the side effects of treatments in conditions like cancer," he informs.

In this specialised field, the 67-year old scientist's contributions are aplenty.

Over the past two decades, Dr. Vijay has played a pivot.'Li role in establishing radiopharrnaceutical production and research facilities in many institutions in the coLmtry. His contributions co his field of expertise are not just recognised nationally; Dr. Vijay was among an elite group of scientists chosen co consult for the Internacional Acomic Energy Agency (lAEA), the acomic arm of the United Nations. This provided a uni9ue opportunity for Dr. Vijay co offer professional guidance to several developing naaons.

With a long list of achievements, recognitions and awards that Dr. Vijay has

14 JANUARY (2) 2017

to his credit, he agrees that the Order of Australia (AM) tops the list. "I feel very honoured by d1is recognition. What makes me particularly happy is the fact that this will bring recognition co the discipline and hopefully encourage aspiring scientists to take it up seriously."

Dr. Vijay's drive for community work is also well-known. A former member of rl1e United Indian Associations and founder of the Sydney Tamil Sangam, Dr. Vijay has given back to the Indian community in the country by helping several immigrant Indians to find a footing in Australia.

He however misses giving more time ro his passions. "In the past few years I have been caught up with my professional life, and I wish I could dedicate a little more time for my other interests," he muses.

One of these is perhaps his talent for music. Dr. Vijay has utilised his passion to

,, Nuclear medicine is a very niche area which uses radioactive medicines to treat specific diseases. It can improve tl'eatment and palliative cal'e ,, join hands with some Indian community associations/groups to raise funds for charity.

Dr. Vijay believes his success sterns from the fact d1at he gets the best of both worlds. "I am very proud of my Indian upbringing, which has nurtured the importance of dedication, hard work and diligence in every cask that I undertake," he reveals. "Couple that wirl1 the exposure, professionalism, professional freedom

d1at I ac9uired from Australia, I am very fortunate tO have obmined the best from both cultures."

He also gives credit where it's due - to his family. According ro Dr. Vijay, his wife, a retired histoparl1ology scientist, his 87-year-old mother, son, daughter and his rl1ree granddaughters are his greatest suengths.

"My wife having been a scientist herself, it was easy to share sharing professional success with her," he says. "A supportive family while having a demanding career is the greatest gift. All this success wouldn't have materialised without them."

He hopes their support wiU allow him to continue doing what he has been doing.

"I see great oppormnicies to give more back to rl1e community and revolutionise treatment and care for patients with conditions like cancer," he says confidently.

Nanditha Suresh

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PIONEERING IN NEURO­ RADIOLOGY

Prof. Makhan Singh Khangure, For significant service to medicine in the field of neuroradiology, to education, and to a range of professional medical associations ow do surgeons treat a rupntred brain aneurysm? \'{Tell, in the 'old' days, they would saw through the skull to get to the artery. Today, most likely, they would employ what is called endovascular coiling: they would go in through an artery in the groin, insert a catheter that would travel up co the brain, and then through it, push up some platinum coils or acrylic glue to fill up the aneurysm, so that blood flow to it is sropped.

The newer technique is much less invasive.

The 'old' days, you might be surprised to learn, was not that long ago. The coil technique was introduced in 1995, and went through seven years of trials before it came into widespread use. In Australia, Perd1based radiologist Prof Mark Khangure was one of the early practitioners involved in the trials. ln this year's Australia Day honours, Prof Mark (i\fakhan Singh) Khangure has been felicitated for his work in neuroradiology, among other things.

"I was delighted when I heard d1e news," he tells Tndia11 U11k in his trademark gencle manner. ln a career chat spans almost half a cennu-y, Prof. Khangure bas not only been practising nenroradiology (a subspecialcy of radiology focusing on the diagnosis and characterization of abnormalities of the brain, head, neck and spine), but has also been involved in counselling, teaching, research and advocacy.

He bas also served on the boards of a number of medical organisations including Australian and New Zealand Society of Neuroradiology, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists and the Australian Medical Association. i\,femoring other trainees and advocating for radiologists have been particular passions that continue to this day.

"I like co tell younger practitioners to be involved with their careers in a broader sense, over and above merely earning a

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/

living," he reveals. "I want them co think about consumer concerns, government funding, equipment update, advocate for private treatment, and generall)' to be honest and provide what patients expect."

Prof. Khangure was born in India but grew up in the UK where bis family moved when he was nine. He finished university d1ere and worked briefly before moving to Perch in 1976. He worked with the Royal Perch Hospital until 2006 but for a brief stint in the US for further training. It was at Royal Perd1 that me clinical trials for endovascular coiling were undertaken.

The professor's links wicl1 me land of his birth continues in a professional sense. "I've been teaching in Jvhunbai about procedures for ruptured aneurysms

, , I like to tell younger practitioners to be involved with their careers in a broader sense, over and above merely earning a living. I want them to think about consumer concerns, government funding, equipment update, advocate for private treatment, and generally to be honest and provide what patients expect ,,

wid1om surgery, in both public and private hospitals. Trainees have come here too, to learn from us: a young Indian doctor worked with us for a year before setting up in India. Od1er than India, we have been training radiologists in UK, Germany, Singapore and Malaysia."

Toda)' he continues to work actively, but for a private radiology group, and is mosrl)' involved in diagnosis.

"I'm like a high-end sportsperson who has climbed the peak before falling back into the precipice!" he laughs. \X'hen not seeing patients, Prof.

Khangure is into long distance walking, classical music, theatre, travelling, and spending time wid1 his grandchildren.

Rajni Anand Luthra

JANUARY (2) 2017 15

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top court had it banned in 2014 on grounds of animal cruelty. Photo: AP

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It's time the Indian community acknowledged First Peoples' ownership of the land, and decolonised our perspective on arts practice

BYAPARNA ANANTHUNI unty Carolyn Briggs, Boonwurnmg elder from Victoria, is telling us a story.

"At the time of the first European settlement, this area was occupied by the Yalukit-\X!iUarn clan. It is now over 180 years since the Emopeans have entered our country. They came up on our sacred river, known as the Birrarung. . . " She speaks slowly, firmly. She is a keeper of the history and genealogies of her people. She is welcoming us to tl1e country upon which we have all gathered, in the suburb now known as Footscray in Melbourne.

Her story is an important one, for it is the story of the land on which we stand. She is telling us about ownership, sacred ground, and most of all, respect.

"Respecting sacred ground. We should all acknowledge the sacred ground on which we stand . . ."

She says the creator of the Boonwurrung, BunjiJ, taught them to always welcome guests. But the guests must first promise two things: one, not to harm tl1e land and rwo, not to harm the children.

This is where it gets comphcated. . . and yet very simple as well. Because mere is no denying that the earhest 'guests' to this land, whose arri,7al eventually led to mis place that we call the Commonwealth of Australia, a nation-state, a 'modern' state, did not make, and certainly didn't keep, tl10se promises. And that we who have come as lacer guests, have ourselves in large part ignored the original ownership and

Acknowledging · coµnt_ry AF i'f iecerir' lndian Conrnlale ( 'ev-eiit '.111 Sy<li1ef t1:r iY1c1tl-. lndl,' s; Ptavasj" Bll, ,�aliy;:i Diva"Sj 11ie.

• Pn.riei qf Jnvft;1;:li spef\�, •HS {N•.1vill_ii, l}oac:;n; M.ala: . Mehtµ· .:)11d Pc'l'll'(an Lutl1ra) all 6eciin itieii taUis Lit ' nchn(\�inrtgi t;g \,011 nii}'. fr \,.;ilS (:I wonderful cha11ge i11 protocof ot. an lncilan t'.'ornmu �-i�)' �\lent, ()i1e ll1;;t witlJ morr. · : we wisl1 will: be lakl.3n up. . lfE:lfll�llCV;·

18 JANUARY (2) 2017

sanctity that beat beneath our feet as we wall, and prosper in 'our' new country.

The place was Foorscray Community Arts Centre, and the event was Day 1 of Arts From, an extraordinary, tl1ree-day, physical and virtual gathering of artists, arts workers, and art producers from all over tlie country. An initiative of Feral Ans, the ain1 was to develop a shared vision for arts and culmre in 2030.

This first day was in fact designed

by Arcs Front's First Peoples Steering Committee, who put to us two, intertwined questions to discuss:

Hmv do 111ep11t Fint Peoples at the centre of a11sp1"11ctice?

How do ll'e decolonise ourselves so as to decolonise thispmctice?

It's worth noting at this point that there were exactly five Indians (including myself) in the audience. And we combined witl1 a group representing Peril magazine to form tlie only meagre cohort of Asian artists, in a sea of \Vestern practitioners. Before tl1e First Peoples delegation came in, people of colour were barely visible.

As formerly colonised people of colour, Indians in Australia share, to a certain degree, in rhe marginalisation of views, practices, languages and histories iliac is rhe everyday reality of the First Australians.

And yet we also distance ourselves as a community from mis kind of pose-colonial understanding of our place in Australia.

We stay insular, cu!mral, even exotic. But most importantly, we don't recognise tl1e privilege inherent in our being able to express our cultural identities at all, and to practice our arts free, in a superficial sense at least, of tl1e colonial gaze. This is not the experience of Indigenous Australians, for whom decolonisation continues to he an agonisingly, unfairly slow process.

The First Peoples Committee forced us to reckon with me urgency of this task of

pmring tbem back into the cemre of arts policy. \'{Te were asked: H01J, haveJIOu been decolonisi11gyo11r 111inds? Ho1v haveJ'Oll beet1 decolonising_yo11rpractice? How haveJ'Olf been

decolonising the thoughts 11pon 111hichyou 're depending? Knowing th11t so much of colonit1!is111 is tf"11vel/ingfonvard i11to the future if we all don't decolonise 011r minds togethe1: . . . we needJ'Oll to t1cti11elygo out there and think aho11t what it is to be deco/011ised.

To not do so, we were cold fran.kly, is to erase Indigenous culture, and Indigenous peoples memselves.

To take a simple but powerful example of pmting First Peoples at tlie centre: tl1e

first activity of the day was an introduction activity, where everyone in me room had to begin their introduction wim the name of the traditional owners of the land that they lived or worked on. Many people already knew, others said tl1ey would have to look it up. Just doing this exercise, tl1ough, altered the atmosphere, and cl1anged the picture.

For here was what Aunty Carolyn was speaking of, given its rightful place: sacred ground, ownership, respect.

It is st.ill rare for us as an Indian communiq, to acknowledge tbe traditional owners of the land upon which we meet for our many concerts, festivals, celebrations. Furtl1ermore, we view the

Neville Roach

For me, as an Australian citizen, acknowledging country is my way of rejecting the lie of 'terra nullius' and recognising Indigenous Australians as the original owners and carers of our lands and waters. It also affirms my commitment to genuine Reconciliation, both symbolic and practical.

For visitors, it is a matter of simple courtesy to thank the First Australians for their welcome to what is their country. Prime Minister Modi set a wonderful example of this when he acknowledged country at all the formal events during his visit, including the Joint Sitting of both Houses of Parliament in Canberra, probably the first foreign Head of Government ever to do so. As an Indian, I felt very proud of him and personally delighted because this gesture was the result of a recommendation that I made to then Consul General, Sunjay Sudhir, who relayed it to the Prime Minister's Office.

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,, As formerly colonised people of colour, Indians in Australia share, to a certain degree, in the marginalisation of views, practices, languages and histories that is the everyday reality of the First Australians ''

Mala Mehta

I believe that this is a very important way of giving Indigenous Australians back their place in society by acknowledging that they are the traditional owners of this land.

This is the Australian culture which everyone must learn to respect. As Indians we are already used to starting off our ceremonies by acknowledging our gods and gurus. Hopefully it will come naturally to the next generation as we continue to educate them.

I just wish more Indigenous people would be involved in the running of our country like the Maoris in New Zealand.

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mainstream arts space, and our position in relation co it, through a lens char misses the arts practice of traditional owners. It is time we understand char to not acknowledge them speaks to a lack of acknowledgement of our own colonisation, and, consequently, a lack of respect for the histories of Indigenous Australians. Hiscories chat still permeate tl1eir lives today.

It is also time to come om from our self-enclosure in ilie "cul mral" space, and move forward, with organisations like Feral Arts, to envision a new fom.re for the arrs in Australia. A decolonised future. A funue that respects sacred groLU1d.

Pawan Luthra

Acknowledgement of country is a simple but profound ritual and gives respect to the Indigenous history of Australia. By acknowledging their rightful place in our society, we Australians will develop a greater respect for ourselves as truly a land of migrants and of our own plurality. This is the 50th anniversary of the referendum where Aboriginals were given the right to vote: over 91% of people voted in favour. Australians believe in giving all a 'fair go· (perhaps flowing through from a convict past). It's time to give the Indigenous community in Australia a fair go by acknowledging that we live on their land.

JANUARY (2) 2017 19

work

have a dury of care to tl1em, co ensure their overall welfare in terms of physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. The onus is on us to see not only that they're OK, but also to reduce reoffending. We do chis by encouraging them to gain life skills and encouraging good habits. We aim to inspire by teaching them skills through TAPE courses and other programs mat tl1ey can use post-release. In short, we work to provide a strong rehabilitative system for iliem.

The hardest thing about my job is

The unpredictability of it all. I go to work each clay wearing a smile, but really don't know what to expect! Of course chis could be good, given chat every day is different.

Not long after arriving at Glen Innes there was an incident one morning. The training kicked in in1JTiediately. It was all hands on deck as soon as possible! We completed a variety of tasks including a head check. \Xle helped investigate tl1e incident with NSW Pol.ice.

Being new, I guess I still have a lot to learn. There is an element of danger too: we often face simations like otl1er frontl.ine officers sum as police and ambulance officers. But we are trained to respond efficiently and professionally.

tEWII

The positive aspects . . .

I'm helping people turn their lives around or at least I'm doing my little bit.

I work with a variety of different people, such as the service and programs staff.

And I'm exposed to a variery of different e..xperiences as I have the opportunity to be transferred to oilier centres Working at a regional pi:ison, 50km from me nearest town, provides an opportunity co understand life and the world.

In terms of my colleagues, they're my new famil)' in a land where I don't have my own. As a Sikh, everyone has received my faith very well, and I've learnt the Aussie way of life from them.

t

How the job has changed my life

I've learnt to be grateful to God for every little blessing in my life. I've always valned my freedom, but now I appreciate tl1e little things. l find that being grateful aids in my happiness.

Advice for people who may want to get into this line of work

In this column, we look at vocations in which members of our community are involved. This edition, we go behind the scenes in the corrective services My name

Paramvir Chattwal My job title

Custodial Officer

My employer Corrective Services NSW I have been in this job for Seven months. I was working with the NS\V Police Force when I came across a prison

20 JANUARY (2) 2017

officer at Goulburn Correctional Centre. He motivated me tO join Corrective Services S\"'v'. I graduated in July last year and now work at Glen Innes Correctional Centre in the state's north. This was after a stint at Goulburn Correctional Centre - I was the first Sikh to work there.

Currently doing PhD in Anglo-Sikh history

My educational qualifications

Secu.riry operations. Th.is involves day-to­ day management of people who are in cuscody. As offenders, they may be put away, bm the buck doesn't stop tl1ere. We

MBA Finance (India) Masters in Science and Equine Management

(US)

(UK)

Cert III in Securiry and Risk Management (currently doing Cert IV) Cert III in Corrective Services Diploma in Intelligence Analysis (AUS) What the job entails

\'{forking in the public service beings stability, especially for newly-arrived migrants. The consistency is comforting.

Get in early, impress with your skills and capaciry to work hard, and nothing will stop you from achieving high. I got into this job when I was brand new to the country, witl1 no prior experience, and found myself welcomed w.itl1 open arms. I would encourage you, even before entering the country, to check out jobs available on a forum such as Iworkfor.ns,,r.gov.au or similar websites.

Paranwir 'Singhy' Chattwal spoke to RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA on the inaugural Con·ections Day which was marked on 20 January thisyear. It took the cummunity beyond theprison walls to hear the stories of the men and women ofthe NSWcorrectional system who rehabilitate inmates, keep offenders accountable and aim to reduce reojfending.

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FRI 1 7 FEB, 201 7 FROM 2PM

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JANUARY (2) 2017 21

WHAT'S ON COMMUNITY UNSW Remembrance Ceremony and Gandhi Oration, Mon 30 Jan, 5pm UNSW is l1olding the Annual Remembrance Ceremony to commemorate Martyr Day from 5pm on the Library Lawn, followed by the Gandhi Oration to be delivered

by Dr Hugh Mackay AO on the topic of "The state of the nation starts in your street" from 6pm in the Sir John Clancy Auditorium. Registrations are essential. Visit: unsw.edu. au/2017GandhiEvents GYAAN 2017, 6pm GOPIO Sydney presents GYAAN 2017 at Castle Hill Community Centre, 14 Pennant Street, Castle Hill. With Bollywood dances, a three course meal, and raising awareness against domestic violence, GYAAN 2017 will honour HSC high achievers in a memorable way. Tickets are $50 per person. Kids under the age of 5 free. If you buy 9 tickets, you get 1 ticket free.

To purchase tickets, visit eventbrite. com.au/e/gopio-gyaan-2017 PERFORMANCE Sunderella, 17, 18, 24, 25 Feb 8pm; 19, 26 Feb 6pm A queer, all-male, Bollywood twist on the familiar tale of Cinderella. Held at PACT Theatre, 107 Railway Parade, Erskineville. nckets: $35. Visit: sunderlla.com.au Sammohanam, Sun 19 Feb, 6pm A pan-Indian celebration of music and dance by Aruna Sairam and Malavika Sarukkai. Come and experience the Sammohanam, 'enchantment' as the artists explore some of the myriad moods and landscapes associated with Lord Krishna. Visit: riversideparramatta.com.au FUNDRAISER Sri Om Care: Dine for a cause, Sat 18 Mar, 7pm-10.30pm Get to know Sri Om Care in 2017! Dine for a cause and make a difference to the elderly of the community.

Come and enjoy a four-course meal with entertainment and wonderful

22 JANUARY (2) 2017

company. Held at Parravilla, Parramatta. Donations welcome.

Donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Visit: sriomcare.org.au. Contact: Jay Raman 0410 759 906 National Blood Donation Drive

by Sathya Sal International Organisation Sathya Sai International Organisation of Australia & PNG is again having a blood donation drive and is encouraging all of its members who are able to contribute in this wonderful and much needed service. Giving blood is giving life. What better way to 'Love all; Serve all' and honour Sathya Sai Baba. Contact: Mayavan 0404 059 093 MISC Queer Screen Mardi Gras FIim Festival, 15 Feb • 2 March Angry Indian Goddesses Screening, Thurs 16 Feb, 7pm Asia Pacific Queer FIim Festival Alliance Shorts, Sun 26 Feb 1pm To showcase the amazing queer fi lms being made in tl1e Asia-Pacific region the Alliance, with ACON Asian Gay Men's Project, has put together a package of the best in new, Asian cinema. A highlight is The Threshold, about an Indian teen caught between a traditional upbringing full of gender­ stereotypes, and his natural urge to identify with the opposite gender.

Forum: The Importance of Queer Cinema in the Asia Pacific, Mon 27 Feb, 6.30pm The Asia Pacific Queer Film Festival Alliance (APQFFA) hosts this forum at the University of Sydney. Hear from delegates from the Alliance member countries, including China, Hawaii (USA), Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. In addition, there will be representatives from Brisbane and Melbourne Queer Film Festivals. At the end of the forum, you will get the chance to ask your own questions. Visit: tix.queerscreen.org.au Hindi Classes Saturdays 2.30pm4.30pm Located at the Indian Cultural

Centre, Level 1, 265 Castlereagh St, Sydney. Hindi classes are $5 per one hour class or $40 for ten classes. Registration is essential as there is a maximum of 20 people per class. Paid parking is available in the vicinity. To register email hindi@ indianconsulatesydney.org or contact 9223 2702.

SPIRITUAL Spirit of lndla Free Presentation on Pranayama and Laya Yoga, Sun 29 Jan, 2.30pm-4.30pm Spirit of India is organising a lecture

by Professor Atul Parikh from Ahmedabad, India. Held at Gravellia Hall, 2 Lane Street, Wentworthville, Prof. Parikh will discuss the importance of breathing, chakras, yoga, kundalini and more. Visit: www. spiritofi ndia.org Spirit of lndla Yoga, Saturdays and Sundays New Classes start 14 Jan. Yoga classes are held in Ryde, Wentworthville, Quakers Hill and Epping. All levels incl. beginners, senior citizens, children's. To enrol in this 15 week course e-mail spiritofi ndia2002@yahoo.com, visit www.spiritofindia.org or contact Suresh 0412 202 182 Sant Nlrankarl Mission Sydney, Sundays 5.30- 7.30pm Congregation helps us strengthen our devotion. Weekly congregations held every Sunday at Sant Nirankari Bhawan, 166 Glendenning Road, Glendenning followed by community meals. Contact: Devinder, 0403 216 084 Heartfullness Relaxatlon and Meditation Saturdays 4.30pm-5.30 pm; Sundays 11.30am-12.30pm All are welcome to experience

Heartfullness. There are no fees to join the group at Seva Yoga Studio, 3c/8, Cowper St. Parramatta. Contact: 02 8004 6547 or sydney@heartfulness.org Srlmad Bhagavad Gita classes, every second Saturday Learn the proper chanting of each shloka and its meaning in English.

Students also learn Sanskrit as they progress and no prior knowledge of Sanskrit is required. Participate either through physical attendance at 20 Station St, Pymble or online attendance through ZOOM: zoom. us/j/6140211522. Contact: Babu 0402 115 223 or devbab@gmail.com SVT Classes · Vedic Chanting Sundays 10am The classes take place in Sri Venkateswara Temple, Temple Rd, Helensburgh. This course will cover pronunciation and then practise with Sanskrit before moving to Vedic chanting. To register and attend, email enquiry@svtsydney.org Hindi Dada Bhagwan Satsang, Every second Sunday 5pm - 8pm Held at Wentworth Community Centre.

Hindi Satsang Time: 5.00pm-6.30pm Aarti nme: 6.30pm-7.00pm Preeti Bhojan Time: 7.00pm-8.00pm Kids Gujarati Language Classes: 5.00pm6.00pm The venue is Kurajong Room underneath Redgum Function Centre.

Contact 0421 127 947 for further information VHP Australla classes, Sundays A local initiative of VHP Australia, Sydney Veda Patasala (SVP) holds weekly classes including vedic chanting, advanced veda classes and Sanskrit language program. Bala Samskar Kendra (BSK) holds weekly Sanskrit language lessons as well as a culture and heritage program at various public schools. Contact: R. Subramanian 0425 284 501

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indian news The Indian government this week withdrew a 2016 notification against jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport following a mass protest by adherents in Tamil Nadu. India's top court had it banned in 2014 on grounds of animal cruelty. Photo: AP

Indian diaspora seeks Modi's help over demonetised currency

The Global Organisation of People of fodian Origin (GOPIO) has pointed out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that diaspora Indians are being turned away by the RBI from depositing or exchanging their demonetised currency and appealed that they be allowed to do so.

The GOPIO, which brings together the fodian diaspora around the world, said in a statement that Indian diaspora with foreign citizenship and O0/PIO card holders are being turned away by Reserve Bank of lndia from depositing their demonetized currencies, despite the extended deadline for NRis being tillJune 30, 2017.

The GOPIO, in an appeal co Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that after standing outside for several hours, Indians with foreign citizenship were being told by the RBI that only l Rls with Indian passport can go inside and exchange the scrapped Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.

The organisation requested the Prime Minister that Diaspora Indians with foreign citizenship, and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card holders be given the same opportunity for depositing old currency notes as given co NRis (Indian Passport holders), aUowtng them to deposit up to Rs 2,50,000 of Indian currency in the RBI instead of notified amount of Rs 25,000.

The appeal further states that Diaspora Indians (who are not able to visit the country) should also be permitted co deposit money m their bank accow1c in India through an authorised agent. (The an1ount certified by the foreign branches of State Bank of India or Indian Missions in the country of their residence or in RBI/ NRO accounts with various banks in India.)

GOPIO also said that since all Diaspora lndians with foreign citizenship, PIO and OCI card holders may not be able to ,,isit India prior to JLU1e 30, they should be aUowed to deposit old currency notes at either the RBI/ RO accounL� mamtained with various banks in India up to December 31.

The appeal addressed to the PM states, "You have repeatedJy acknowledged the

24 JANUARY (2) 2017

role of NRls/PIOs and expatriates in the resurgence of India and their record annual remittances to India which is the highest compared to any country in the world. \Y/e urge }'OU to agree to the requested concession for goodwiU of 30 million NRis and PIOs and amend the notification # RBI/2016-17/2005/DC:M/ (Plg) No 2170/10.27.00/2016-17 dated December 31, 2016."

The Centre had e:,rtended for s_ix months the last date for applying for conversion of PIO cards to OCI cards to June 30, 2017 from December 31, 2016.

The PIO card was first implemented in 2002 as a benefit to foreign nationals who could establish at least a third generation tie to Indian origin. It was valid for travel, work, and residence in India for a period of 15 years.

The OCI card was implemented in 2005, and carries more expansive benefits than the PIO card, and is valid for the holder's lifetime.

Sarosh ZaiwaUa, founder and senior partner at London-based law firm Zaiwalla & Co. Solicitors, said in a sL'ltement that the "Indian diaspora from various countries have expressed that the government should consider for deposits in Indian embassies around the world as a solution for ease of implementation of the currency exchange across the globe, as majority of NRis reacted positively to the demoneti-zation move. Tbe fact that the NRis did not receive any guidance after the shock announcement of the demonetisation even until December 30 felt somewhat misplaced. However, just after the deadline and fresh inro the New Year, first communication from the government towards at the NRis emerged of the extension until 30th June 2017. If NRis are co travel to India within the window period to exchange their old bank notes, it ma}' be tricky under the current FEi'v1A guidelmes considering the cap for bringing in Indian currency from abroad is set at INR 25,000 per person, and It would be economicaUy unviable to spend nearly INR 50,000 (UK airfare) on air tickets just to convert it."

He went on, "Expecting nullions of Indian nationals to return to the country just to drop back dead notes is incom,enienc

and ineffective. Therefore, a localised solution through any of the Indian banks or embassies abroad would be a viable alternative."

Modi, Trump discuss South Asia security; will stand together to fight terror

Prime Minister Narend.ra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed the security simation in South and CentraJ Asia during their phone conversation on 24 Jan and resolved that India and US will "stand shoulder to shouldd' to fight global terrorism, the White House said.

Strengthening defence partnership was among topics that came up during their talks about furthering cooperation between the cwo nations, according co the \'.{/hire House.

"Trump emphasised that the United States considers India a true friend and partner in addressing challenges around the world," the White House said.

This was reflected in the fact that conversation between the leaders of the world's two greatest democracies came before Tmmp had talked co leaders of important allies like Britain, Germany and Japan or major powers like China and Russia smce formally caking office on 20 Jan. During bis campaign, Trump praised Modi as a "great leader" and sought a kinship of ideas with him as a "pro-growth leader" when be attended a .raUy organised by d1e Republican Hindu Coalition (RHC) in New Jersey in October. He added that after his election India would have true friend in the White House.

White House said chat Trump invited Modi to visit hini later this }'ear.

President Pranab Jvfukherjee invited Tnm1p to visit India when he congratulated him on assuming the presidency. The real estate investor-mrned­ politician bas visited India severaJ ttmes for business.

Another topic Trump and Modi discussed was strengthening the parmership in the economy, but the statement did not give any details of what they might have discussed. },fodi and Trump have parallel priorities

of job creation, especially through manufacturing, and increasing investments which may appear headed for a collision.

Ea.rlier in the day, Trump met wid1 auto industry leaders to promote his programme of "Make in America" and on Monday, he met union and industry leaders and emphasised bis campaign mantra of "Buy American, Hire American".

Shalabh Kumar, the founder and head of the Republican Hindu Coalition who is close to both leaders, told IA S that trade need not be a zero sum game and both nations can mutually benefit from their respective ''Make in India" and "tvfake in America" domestic manufacmring programmes.

As an example, he said that while the US increases manufactured exports co India in defence, technology and energy sectors, India will have an opportunity ro take advantage of Trump's move away from China and increase its own manufacmred exports in a balanced manner. This would help create jobs in both countries and enable both leaders to achieve d1eir priorities, he added.

Tnunp has also spoken about limiti.ng the use of temporary professional visas known as H1 -B, which he has repeatedJy said is abused and is used throw Americans out of jobs.

That is a matter of great concern for lndia as the visas are the l.ifeblood of technology sector exports to the US. 24 Jan was a special clay to hold their conversation. Nikki Haley became the first lndian American co get a cabinet-level appointment when the Senate approved on that day Trump's nomination of her to be the US ambassador to the United Nations.

Before the call with Modi, Trump had spoken only with the neighbours, Canadian Prin1e Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Pena Nieto, with premier all)' Israeli Prin1e Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who will have a major role in helping Trump deal with the 'Middle East and with terrorism.

All 5 Indian American lawmakers nominated to key Congressional panels

All five Indian American lawmakers successful this election have been nominated to key Congressional panels, the media here reported.

All five are Democrats, as are the bulk of Indian-Americans.

US Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, elected to the House of Representatives from Seattle, wtU serve on the House Judiciary Committee, helping to oversee the federal-court system and law­ enforcernent agencies, said a report in die Seattfe Ti111es.

Jayapal said she looks forward to working on in1.migration reform, criminal­ justice reform, reproductive rights and voting rights.

"I'm proud co have led efforts for some of the most progressive immigration

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Freezing! Elephants at a rescue and conservation centre in Agra are snug in their jumbo jackets as the mercury dips to 10 degrees Celsius. Rescued from shocking circumstances of abuse, they are weak and vulnerable, making them susceptible to ailments such as pneumonia. Photo: IANS

policies in the nation," Jayapal said in a sratemenr. "In the l 1Srh Congress, l pledge to fight for our progressive values, and block the Trump administration's plans to deport vulnerable undocumented immigrants, create a Muslim registry and violate our civil rights and civil liberties."

Congressman Ro Khanna was appointed to two key comlilirtees - Budget and Armed Services, reported daily Mercury News. He represents the 17th District of California, which covers the Silicon Valley communities of Cupertino, Fremont, Newark, Santa Clara, and Sunnyvale.

Raja Krisbnamoorthi, who was sworn in as a Member of the US House of Representatives earlier this month, would be serving on two influential committees. ln addition to being tbe voice of Illinois' Eighth Congressional District, the Democrat will serve on rhe House Education and Workforce Committee, as well as die House Democratic Policy and Steering Committee, indiawest.com reporred.

"These committee assignments will give my constituents a voice ro make sure l can stand up for working families every day by focusing on job creation and affordable higher education," said Krishnamoorthi.

Congressman Ami Bera was renolilinated ro the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Science, Space and Technology Committee. He is the senior most among all Indian American lawmakers in che House of Representatives and is also co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, said a report.

Kamala Harris, first Indian American to serve in the US Senate, will serve on four influential committees - the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee; the Select Committee on Intelligence; the Committee on Enviroru11ent & Public Works; and the Commjttee on the Budget.

Harris said that her committee assignments i11 the US Senate will be "key battlegrounds in the future of our country", the LosA11geles Times reported.

"At a time when so many Californians and Americans are uncertain about our future, 1 will aggressively fight for our families and the ideals of our nation," Harris said.

2016 was a bumper year for the Indian­ American community, wirb a record haul of four in the House of Representatives, and their first seat in the Senate.

Trump appoints Ajit Pai to head communications agency

President Donald Trump has appointed Ajir Pai ro head the powerful US communications regulatory agency, becoming the third Indian American picked fot key positions in his administration.

Pai, 44, will be the Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the federal authority regulating

NATIONAL EDITION

cellphone spectrum and services, radio, television, phone, internet and satellite and cable.

Pai annmmced his appointment on Twitter, saying it "is a deeply humblli1g honour". He added that he would work to bring the benefits of the digital age to all Americans.

The FCC also has a major role in controlling the content of television and radio, a sensitive issue given Trump's contentious relations with the media.

The agency sets and enforces certain norms on content Jjke obscenity in TV and conditions like having a certain amount of local news content for stations to keep their licences.

Underscoring its importance, Representative Frank Pallone said: "By some measures, the FCC oversees approximately one sixth of the US economy." ikki Haley, Trump's nominee for the cabinet-level post of US ambassador ro the UN, was confirmed by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for the job.

Another Trump nominee is Seema Verma, who is co head the Centers for Jvfedicare and Jv[edicaid Services, the agency for government health insurance programmes.

Already a member of the FCC, Pai will succeed Tom \'vheeler, a Democrat, who quit recently.

A free enterprise advocate, Pai has been a critic of the functioning of the FCC and clashed witl1 its Democratic Parry leadership. Recently be rook .issue with an FCC report rbat questioned the legality of offerings given free of charge for people ro access online music, videos and other content.

He has said he wants to end net neuu·ality, which prevents internet service providers from giving special preferences ro certain websites or accept payment from a web service ro give it priority or better access.

Democrats expressed their concern about Pai's role in a letter ro him.

The senior Democrat on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce that deals witl1 communications wrote to him saying his success would depend on being

responsive to members of Congress from botl1 parties and working for consensus on major decisions.

Before his appoimment to the FCC in 2012, Pai had worked as a lawyer for the telephone and communications giant Verizon, tl1e Senate judicial Committee and the Justice Department.

Pai's parents, both doctors, immigrated from India.

Trump has also appointed an expert on strategic communications and political research, Raj Shah, as depucy assistant and research director on the White House staff.

Another Indian American, Balaji Srinivasan, is under consideration to head the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), according ro Sean Spicer, Trump's spokesperson.

Srinivasan is a biotechnology entrepreneur who has been critical of the connections between large pharmaceutical companies and FDA. He now heads a start-up that deals wirh bircoin, the internet-based currency.

Assam's rice wine qualifies for GI registration

The "Judima" traditional rice wine, a popular alcoholic beverage of Assam's Dimasa tribe - and an integral part of the community's social and cultural life - is a fit candidate for geographical indication (GI) registration, a don at New Delhi's Indian Law lnstirute says. a report published in the Indian Journal fln Intellectual Proper(} Rights, Assistant Professor J upi Gogoi has urged the judima producers ro form an association and file for GI registration to protect rbe traditional knowledge and promote the wine's trade for rbe community's economic development.

Under tl1e international agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellecmal Property Rights (TRIPS), the GI tag is assign ed ro a product that has a specific geographical origin and possesses qualities or a reputation chat are 1mique to that place. The GI recognition gives local producers exclusive brand protection.

Darjeeling tea became tl1e first GI tagged product in India in 2004. Since then, 272 products have been added ro the

o

list tl1at includes Dharwad Pedha, Tirupati Laddu, Muga Silk, Kangra Tea, Madhubani Paintings and Telangana's Pochampally lkat.

Besides protecting the cultural identity of a community, tl1e GI recognition prevents unautl1orised use of the tag by others and promotes economic prosperity of producers by enhancing the demand for their goods in national and international markets, Gogoi says.

1n India, there are many communities (such as 1'ocba.rupally) rhat were economically benefited by GI recognition ro rheir traditional products, he says.

"If Judima is registered as a GI, it can go a long way in maintaining the cultural identity of Din1asas as well as bringing economic prosperity ro tl1e rribe."

To produce J udima, the Din1asa tribe uses a glutinous rice cal.led Bora chat is indigenous to tl1e region and the bark of a plant called Thembra (Acacia pem1clf{I) collected from forests surrounding the region. The powdered bark is mixed with rice flour and some water and made into a dough that, on fermentation, yields the beverage. The uniqueness of this product lies in the use of Thembra.

"The taste of Judima is a result of the plant Thembra and various ocher ingredients used in a particular man.net known exclusively to rbe Dimasa community," says Gogoi. "So, without a doubt, Judima is a traditional knowledge of the Dimasa community and is a strong case for getting Gl registration."

Juclima, according to Gogoi, can seek GI protection in .similar lines to Goa's Feni - a drink made from cashew apples or coconut sap - which goc the GI rag in 2009. He says existing documentary evidence and the role that J udima plays in the lives of the people of the Dimasa community should be regarded as adequate proof of irs origin for getting the Gl tag.

According to Gogoi, stuclies have inclicated that Juditna may have tremendous health benefits. "Therefore, more scienti.fic research may be undertaken ro highlight the nutraceutical and therapeutic properties of Judima which can give a huge boost ro its trade."

IANS

JANUARY (2) 2017 25

centrespread

Scenes from the 2017 Australian Open Tennis Championships by RAVINDER SINGH JABBAL

26 JANUARY (2) 2017

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NATIONAL EDITION

JANUARY (2) 2017 27

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illennial - a word synonymous with entitlement, laziness and foolliardiness. The m.illennials are pare of Gen Y (born between 1981 and 2000), tl1e "next generation", and are notoriously unemployable. Millennials constantly face tlie stereotypes of self-entitlement, umvillingness co learn and narcissism - tlie epitome of someone you don't want to emplof Being a part of Gen Y, I am aware of how we're conscantly bombarded with the stereotypes of being spoiled, lazy and entitled. We have been cold that we want die world handed to us on a silver platter, that we are unwilling co work, and lack ambition. Bur d1e truth is we have nowhere to go with our ambition.

In 2016, although national u□employmenr levels dropped, youth unemployment levels soared. At the beginning of rhe new financial year, youth unemployrnenr leveL5 rose to 13.24%, nearly double the youth unemployment level of 7.61% in 2008. 1n

an Australian citizen enrolled in an eligible wiir of study. Time Magazine found that between 2008 and 2014, srudent debt rose 84% internationally. These are a ludicrous amounts for full time srudents to pay off.

Ac the moment, milleruiials have to choose between paying off their loans or saving for a house. This is a choice that nobody should have to make. For baby boomers, this was noc a problem, as diey were the generation of social welfare benefits, and heald1y pension payments. \Xle, on the other hand, have to choose between paying off our debt or saving for our future.

To address tliis social inequality, we should be encouraging d1e youth to broaden their career horizons. The ATAR requirements for university courses are not based on academic rigour, but are based on demand and supply.

Therefore the hardest course to gain entry into does not have an ATAR of 99+ due to its high academic merit, bur radier due to d1e high demand for the course.

Australia currently has au oversupply of doctors and L'lwyers, many of which are currently 1memployed. Nodung makes an Indian parent happier than seeing their child as a lab-coat wearing, stedioscope-donning medical doctor. Unfortunately, not everyone can be a doctor, and not everyone shoH!dbe a doccor. Instead we should encourage young people to seek jobs in areas they're passionate

,, Paying off HECS debt vs saving for a house is a choice that baby boomers did not have to make, as theirs was the generation of social welfare benefits and healthy pension payments ,, just eight short years, the number of young people our of work has nearly doubled. At the moment, university graduates are as 1memployed as high school dropouts.

Blaming an entire generation for their lack of employability is nor the solution. There are dear flaws in d1e cmrent job sector that discriminate against the young and inexperienced. Rather dian pointing fingers, we need to work towards promoting a culture of strong ambition and work ethic, where millennials are given d1e means to explore and grow dieir aspirations.

In the current job market, you need experience, bur to gain experience, you must have a job. A person does not gain experience since tl1ey do not have a job, and rnerefore cannot get a job due co d1eir lack of experience. And so, this tiresome cycle continues.

At the moment, entr)r-level jobs require muversiry qualifications and years of experience - tl1e latter of which is very difficulr for young newcomers to obtain.

N[illennials are not lazy and unambitious; radier d1ey are not given the chance to grow.

Currently, arow1d 70% of students graduate widi astronomical amounts of student loans. In Australia, university smdenrs get d1e chance to apply for HECS-HELP loans. Smdents can borrow up to $126,101 to pay for dieir degrees. Just about anyone is eligible for d1ese loans, as long as d1ey are

about, or growing industries such as teaching and accounting.

It also should be noted that although [here is a stigma widiin migrant conummities regarding trades, "tradies" are highly employable and also earn a healthy income. However, coming from migrant bad,grounds, our parents adopt a "tiger parenting" approach co ensure their child goes inro one of d1ree fields; law, medicine, or engineering This is due co the niigranr idea of going into a "well respected" and "high earning job". Contrary to what Indian parents believe, there are more jobs d1an Jaw and medicine mat 6t these characteristics.

Unfortunately, Indians often associate trades and labour jobs widi being ''low class", and believe d1at their cl1ildren should use their brains for a living, not their bodies. Some plumbers charge up to $500 for a house visit! Although "cradies" earn high ammmts of money, d1e social stigma attached co labour work prohibits many millennials from entering into these jobs, which are just as good as any oilier.

The quintessential millennial is not lazy, apathetic and self-indulgem, but rather ambitious yet disadvantaged. To change die alarming statistics of youch unemployment, it is imporranr to address societal stereotypes and over expectations rather than pointing fingers at fresh-faced university graduates who are none the wiser.

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b NATIONAL EDITION

JANUARY (2) 2017 29

school

It is important to teach children about time management and goal setting for a smooth year ahead ,, Time, after all, is the difference between not knowing and knowing, perceptions of failure and success, sickness and healing, here and there, movement and stillness , ,

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BY MOHAN DHALL

here is nothing so valuable as time. At the end of one year and . of a new one, most the beginning adults wonder at how quickly time passes. Unfortunately, no school curriculum deals with an understanding of the nature, and our perception, of time. As a fact of life, time is the most important facror of all.

Time is central co tbe effective management of schools and all effective teaching and learning. Time is central to the management of the workplace, the household, and relationships.

In schools, we create timetables, aUocating minuces co subjects, distributing the workload and managing time through structure. Schools organise time, bur do not teach the concept as a subject.

It is important to begin the year focused on the nature and management of time.

Time, after all, is the difference between not knowing and knowing, perceptions of failure and success, sickness and healing, here and the.re, movement and stillness.

Time is moments, chosen or incidental, given to (or spent on) the ocher things we

30 JANUARY (2) 2017

do. The best beginning-of-the-year gift we can give co ourselves and the children over whom we have responsibility and care, is a deeper understanding of the nature of time.

A purposeful life, an academic life, requires an Lmderstanding of how time is co be utilised throughout the year, so that intention is realised, or at least to provide a direction for effort and a sense of personal fulfillment.

Time is intcinsicaUy related co discipline.

In the context of education, discipline is concentrated effort over time. Discipline applies time to begin and also finish things co the best possible standard. Discipline is time with focus.

Time cannot be stopped. Excitement about an upcoming birthday does not make time pass more quickly, and fear about an assessment does not buy more time. Future things will come to pass.

In dlis regard, time compels wise decision-making; actions undertaken now have future effect. This is very

important when setting a course for a successful year. Time wasted now cannot be redeemed or crammed into three-hours of compressed understanding later. Time wasted now will manifest as stress and an.xiety or weakness later. Confidence comes from time invested in preparation, planning and working with alertness.

When planning a year around the importance of Lmderstancling time, there are crucial d1ings ro consider. Thinking,

processing, understanding, knowing. . . these rake time.

What is read today is understood more

deeply tomorrow. The exercises done

today build adaptive strength, the benefits of which are seen tomorrow; People reading today, have improved understanding immediately, but if they read with focus and critical nlind, what !:hey read will inAuence cognitive growth tomorrow and next week and next year. Similarly, people training for a long race requiring much stamina know that a long training run done on Sm1day, leads to significant ease and pace on Thursday's run, later in the week.

Understanding time, means knowing

that effort and reward are related, although sometimes, the link is not

immediately apparent. Wisdom arises

from the patience to know that effort made is never wasted, even when results are delayed. The focus d1en becomes on enjoying rhe effort for its own intrinsic reward. \�hilst ir is usual to want reward for effort, maturity and responsibility arise when people act in ways d1ar are beneficial to themselves because having personal standards matters, even when there is no external acknowledgement.

A deep understanding of time means that goals should be set to help to concentrate effort. However, goals may not be met in the period allocated or designated. Often goals cake longer to achieve than intended, because real

life gets in the way of a great idea or a noble pursuit. This is important, because it helps us co understand that intention guides action and also char goals are most fulfilling when earned, despite setbacks and challenges.

Understanding time also means that we understand each child has their own

strengths, their own journey to uncover

what 'works' for them, who they are, and

co know how to deal with and appreciate the problems and challenges brought by everyday life. Patience w1derstands rhar time does not require immediate responses to all issues, problems or challenges. Immediacy may be required in an emergency, but most of life is not a series of emergencies. This means that an approach ro time can be brought that integrates stillness, reason and deep thinking into decision-maki11g.

If responsible adults always react with impulsiveness, anger, or disappointment at perceptions of 'failure' or where expectations are unmet, rhen young people can learn to fear risk taking. Addressing 'failure' with anger is a failure role-modelled by d1e adult. This places control ahead of an undersrnnding of time. Yer time reaches that time itself cannot be controUed. Knowing what to control, what can effectively be controlled and understanding self-control are aU important.

Time brings change, challenges, and an opporrunity to understand. Time beckons to be known now: it is time.

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Year 6 Sunday, 5th February 201 7 I

The 20th ASAT Competition Schedule > Eligible Students

Year 6 students who will sit the Selective High School Placement Test in 2017

> Test Date & Time

Sunday, 5th February 201 7 (9:30am - 1 :30pm)

> Test Subjects Reading, Mathematics, Writing and General Ability > Test Centre Location Buring Pavilion (Exhibition Hall 3&4) at Sydney Olympic Park (Riverina Avenue, Homebush Bay)

> Registration Fee

$6S per applicant (not refundable)

NOT MANY PLACES REMAIN. REGISTER NOW!

Register at your nearest Pre-Uni New College Branch, or Register & pay now for ASAT atmuffftk3'.:l•iS�tb

Pre-Uni New College will be holding its annual scholarship tests on Sunday, 5th February 2017.

Please find the detailed information on testing schedule and scholarship conditions below.

Who can apply?

Years 3, 4 and 5 students in 201 7

Test Dates & Time

Sunday, 5th February 2017(3:00pm - 5:30pm)

Test Subjects

Exhibition Hall 3, Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park

Test Venue Registration Fee How to register *Scholarships

English, Mathematics and General Ability

$25 per applicant (non - refundable)

Register at your nearest Pre-Uni New College Branch, or at www.newcollege.com.auLbooking

Successful students will receive up to 75% scholarship discount on regular term WEMG course tuition fees.

*Conditions Apply

For more information, please call on 9746 7000 or refer to your nearest branch.

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NATIONAL EDITION

JANUARY (2) 2017 31

spirituality

An exploration of Vipassana experiences and learnings

BY JYOTI SHANKAR

A

s the year 2016 neared its close, my mother and I decided to head to the Blue Mountains for a ten-day rea:eat at the Vipassana Meditation Centre at Blackheath. Having undertaken a comse twice before, 1 was well aware of the rigours of this form of medication - the 4am wake up gong, twelve hours of sitting on the floor, two meals a day (the last at 11 am), no phone, books or T'v, and no coffee. It would be a challenge for my 74-year-okl mother, who was doing it for

32 JANUARY (2) 2017

the first time, but anyone drawn to this path feels this deep inexplicable urge to do it an)C\vay. As Vidhi, a first time student said, "One does not find Vipassana, Vipassana finds you."

As each day melded into another, wid1 an unflagging routine of seated meditation and deep silence, die restlessness of our minds and stillness of our bodies, made both revolt. This made most of us wane co run away by Day Two. However, we soon realised that it is d1is silence that provides a shield and makes me journey into om inner self possible. In our day to day lives, where our senses are assaulted by sights, sounds, tastes, smells and touch, chis becomes difficult. Slowly, we are introduced co die Vipassana technique of meditation; the very technique through which Gautam!l Buddha discovered his way to 11irva11a or liberation.

For over 2500 years, Vipassana remained

,, It is the silence that provides a shield and makes the journey into the inner self possible ,, taught i n its pristine form only by a few in Burma, and it was from there that SN Goenka brought the meiliod co India again.

The Black.heath Centte, started i n 1983, is the oldest Vipassana centte in Australia.

Every year, thousands of students learn the technique in its beautiful bush settings, conducive for deep introspection.

Vipassana means seeing things 'as it is' (J1atha bhootha). The technique is a practical means to sharpen your awareness, maintain equanimity and realise that everything is impermanent (anid:tya). This is learnt by observing our breaili and the sensations wiiliin the framework of our body. A complete explanation of the technique fails as words are woefully inadequate to describe one's experience and each experience is unique. I spoke co a few students, some first-timers and some more experienced, at the end of the coarse to capture some of these experiences.

For Ramana who was doing Vipassana for the tl1-ird time, this course was special as wid1 him was his wife, Revathi, doing the course for the first time. The centre rules impose strict segregation between the sexes and any physical, visual or audirory contact between srnclents, but just kno\1;,ing that

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,, The aim of Vipassana is to learn to calmly observe the ups and downs of life, without reacting ,,

Ramana was there made Revathi feel less intimidated by the experience.

"I recall feeling much lighter and more peaceful after the earlier courses, but I did not maintain the practice and soon relapsed into old thought patterns," said Ramana.

The struggle of sitting on the floor for extended periods of time is a challenge for most meditators. Controlling the 'monkey mind' is anod1er. le jwnps from one tree of thought to anocher, and reining it in to observe breaths and sensations is a tough ask. With persistence, and wid1 the progress of each day, most meclitators realise that dtis isn't impossible.

"Even though there was cliscomfort in sitting on the Aoor with legs crossed, 1 somehow managed to distance myself from it and acqui.re the position of a silent observer," Revathi said.

This is exactly tbe aim of Vipassana - to

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learn to calmly observe the ups and downs of life, without reacting.

First timer Vanita described her experience as "i.ncredible". She says that she feels a much calmer and controlled person now and has come to terms with some deep emotional issues.

Renuka had done the course once before in India, but this time ar0tmd she took the oppormnicy ro serve on d1e course. There is no charge for Vipassana courses, which run ptttely on donations by past sn1dents.

One can also donate time by serving on courses. She took the first course to learn to deal with some stressful situations in her work life.

"It was dte best decision made," Renuka recollected. "During my course I .realised that the only hindrance to being the grandest vision of myself was me.

We often blame external situations and

people."

From her experience she affirmed, "To observe the reality as ic is and not tweak it to see it the way I want to is a game changer. I reckon everyone should attend this course at lease once."

Phong, a )'Oung man from a Vietnamese Buddhist background, was a bir disillusioned by the ritualistic practices of various forms of Buddhism. When some friends suggested trying the secular, non­ sectarian practice of Vipassana, he decided to attend this course.

"I will come back again, probably as a server on a course or volunteer at the centre," he said after his w1forgettable experience.

Mabel had come with her daughter, Priscilla, bod1 for the first time. Her main htttdles during the 10-day course were the ph)'sicaJ pain, doubts about the technique

and her ability, homesickness and losing weight.

"It was much more challenging than I expected," she said. However, the evening discourses, group sirri.ngs, surrotmdi.ngs and the environment of the centre, and aonosphere of compassion and generosity, impressed l'vfabel and she intends to keep up che practice.

Vidbi learnt about Vipassana dttough her friend who took the course after a major personal tragedy. "She came our a much calmer, positive person and couldn't wait to go back," Vidhi said. Describing her own experience as "gruelling", she said, "It breaks all myths you have about )'Our body a.nd mind. It challenges your mind to srop mnning. le challenges your body to stop resisting. The moment the mind is still and matter is experienced in motion within, d1e essence of 'impermanence' emerges, and thereby the answers co all questions."

Leaming Vipassana is described as 'experiential' wisdom or bhavana-mqyapa,!),a, chat is, somedting learnt from one's own experience, as opposed to wisdom acquired b)' hearing or reading d1e words of others (s11fa-111q;•apa11ya) or that acquired from by thinking (cbintt1-111q;ra pm!Yt1).

Ifyou wish to take tbispath or 111ant to

learn more, head to www.blmmi.dhamma.

JANUARY (2) 2017 33

fiction ,, In Shanti's mind, this was the right attitude, asking for what she wanted, but not expecting anything ,, D o you look to God co dealing with hardships? \Xlhat is your purpose of life?

She was surprised.

"I was just thinking about chis," said Shanti. Tears welled in her eyes. It was a little extreme, but her ream members were starting ro get co her. She was di.inking about why it had upset her so much, and berated herself for getting emotional. She shouldn't have let her team mates botl1er her the way they did. Still, she was human after all. She sniffled.

Shanti filled out the survey and handed it back ro Ayumi.

***

A short story about understanding what God means in everyday life

B

BYSONDARYA KRISHNAN

hagavad Gita, Chapter 7,

Verse 17

Cr1t11r-vidba hht1jate mr1111 Janah s11k1tino 'tj1111a Artoj!Jnr1sur mtbmtbi J11a11i ca bharatarst1bba ''According to the Gira, there are four types of devotees. The first will pray when they are in distress. This devotee remembers the Lord when there are hardships in their life and when there is no one else to call upon. Tbe second devotee prays for what they desire, this may include wealth, a wife or husband, influence or success in business. Of course, there are times when it is appropriate to pray for these ends, and in times of hardships we all call upon the Lord. However, there are more noble pursuits. The third type of devotee prays to understand the Lord. They want to know the truth of God. Finally, the fourth type is the one who understands the Lord. He identifies with him rocally."

"So, which type of devotee do you want to be?" asked the Guru, as he took off his glasses. He held them in his hand as he smiled knowingly at the class. "The choice is yours."

***

The choice is yours... the choice is yours . . . the choice is yours. The words circled arow1d in Shanti's head as she drove home from class. The girl was a perfectionist; she expected the best from herself and always tried to do the right thing. She challenged herself to do what was tough but right.

She decided that she would be the third Lype of devotee. She was just seventeen

34 JANUARY (2) 2017

years old. She was thirty years ymmger than her classmates in the Gita lesson, and many wondered what such a young girl was doing in a class like this. After all, most seventeen-year-olds aren't interested in Hindu theology. If you asked her why she attended, she would say, "Because it makes me less confused." She didn't like talking too much. She was a normal girl ia every respect, except for one thing. She was very quietly determined.

Yes, she decided, she would be the third type of devotee. She wanted to see what would happen if she followed the 'right' path.

a university srudent at 18, she wanted to vokmteer overseas for si.x montl1s, before returning to Tokyo to complete her sn1dies.

She was ready and prepared to go, where to \Vas the question. Her organisation had decided on a lottery system. Whatever cotmtry she pulled out of the hat, would be her new home for the next six months.

Ayumi held her breath as she felt around the hat. Her lingers f0tmd a slip of paper and she promptly pulled out her hand.

"Well?" chimed her friends, eager co know where she would go.

"Sydney, Australia," she read out expressionlessly. She hadn't expected that.

She placed the palms of her hands together, closed her eyes and emptied her mind of all thoughts.

0111 bhur bh11vabswab Tr1ts,wit111· vare1!)1a111 Bhargo dcvasya Dhi111t1hi dbfyo yo t1r1b prachodtl)'at Shanti chanted tl1e Gayath.iri mantra in her head.

She opened her eyes and stared at the deity of Ganesha sitting resplendently in the sancnm1. She smiled to herself. She was the type of devotee that she wanted to be. In her mind, tbis was the right attitude, asking for what she wanted, but not expecting anything.

"I'm only young, God will help me come to understand him in time, there isn't any rush," Shanti thought to herself.

She didn't expect anything special, after all, she was just another devotee at the temple.

Three months later, at 18, Shanti fotmd herself at university, doing a degree she loved. For one subject, where group work was necessary, her cean1 mates weren't exactly what you would call . . . interested.

Shanti looked around at her team mates.

They were all texting on their phones. She sighed quietly. But, in true Shanti spirit, she thought to herself, 'I'm going ro whip these guys into shape.' For the moment though, she was feeling quite deflated.

'I'll go have lunch in the park,' she tl1oughc to herself, 'Sitting in the sun will cheer me up.'

***

*""'

Ayurni placed tl1e palms of her hauds together, closed her eyes and emptied her mind of all thoughts.

"God, please send me to the right country, ro help me fulfil your mission."

It was a warm summer's day in Tokyo.

Aymni was a religious volunteer worker. As

***

***

Ayumi was wallung around, clipboard in hand, blank surveys printed out and pens at the ready. She was in Sydney now, carrying out duties. Today she was undertaking surveys. It was something she enjoyed doing. She felt chat people in Sydney were more approachable than people in Tokyo.

Looking for someone co approach, Ayumi saw a uni student eating lunch alone, staring off into space, deep in thought. The YOlLng woman agreed to complete the survey.

***

Shanti read the questions in front of her.

Do you believe in God? What does God mean to you?

What is your purpose of life?

To be the best I can be.

That was pretty impressive. This girl looked about eighteen, but she seemed pretty manLre for her age.

"Are you a Hindu? I like your scar."

"Thank you," said Shanti. ''Ir's called a hindi."

"That's interesting. Tell me more about yourself."

***

They ended up sitting in the park, talking for hours. For the first rime, Shanti expressed the ideas she'd been having about her religion. She felt tired of being confused by, and afraid of, ocher people. She spoke about what was on her ni.ind and everytl1ing she had been feeling lately. It was strange, she had just mer this girl, but it felt like they were best friends. She felt comfortable talking to her and felt relieved char her ideas were shared by Ayumi. She felt less alone.

***

Shanti found hetself in class again with her Guru. They were studying Ishavasya Upanishad.

"There are two characteristics of enlightened people," GLLru explained, calmly. "The enlightened person doesn't hate anyone. They might not wane co spend time with someone, but they don't hate anyone. Secondly, the one who sees the trutl1 doesn't feel afraid of anyone."

Shanti sac up straight in her seat, she was scarring to understand what that felt like.

She listened carefully.

"The one who really tmderstands the truth does not feel afraid of sharing their opinions witl1 otl1ers and being judged for them; tl1ey don't feel afraid of ocher people."

Shanti was confused. Did chis mean she was enlightened? Could it be that all those prayers she made were coming to fruition?

Was she coni.ing closer to understanding the Lord? "\XThen Life presents us with oppornmities which help us in our pursuits, and we ha,,e the presence of mind to cake tl1em, we can count ourselves as blessed," seated the Guru knowingly.

Shanti smiled co herself. She undersrood no,v. There was no ocher explanation for how she met Aymni. There was no other explanation for all the little things that happened which allowed tl1ern to meet.

Her prayer had been answered.

She was blessed.

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JANUARY (2) 2017 35

arts

OPEH

esivo ution

A photographic tribute to Melbourne's Indian food culture

BY DHANYA SAMUEL

S

onia Sarangi is an architect by profession, but sbe is also an avid foodie and photographer.

Her recently concluded phocogrnphy e.xhibition, Desivolution, presented in association witb Multicultural Arts Victoria, is testimony to this, capturing tbe hean and soul of the lndi an food culrure in Melbourne.

"Restaurants have become powerful billboards for culture and diversity in Melbourne," Sarangi says. "It is in this space that maoy of us are willing to share different aspects of desi culture that ochers are unaware of."

She continues, "The exhibition focuses on the design and food of tl1ese 'new wave' Indian establishments, I hesitate to call tliem restaurants as many do not fit tliat description, from food trucks to specialist market stalls; from healthy street food to contemporary fine dining, tucked away in tlie laneways of Melbourne. Ultimately, I belie,,e tlrnt food is a fantastic window into our culture."

36 JANUARY (2) 2017

Phocography has always been a silent passion for Sonia, but an important one being in the field of design and ard1itecture.

"It began witl1 me 'borrowing' my dad's film camera before 1 headed to university and tl1en forgetting to ever return it," Sarangi says. "I don't have formal training, but I think chat being self-taught is a route chat many creative people take. It's taken me quite a long time to find my voice in photography and to find the perfect platform co share it."

Michael Silver (who runs l'vfagnet Galleries where tbe exhibition was held) showed Sonia some beautiful archival papers on which her photographs could be printed. The minute Khadi was mentioned, she knew tl1is would be the most befitting surface for her photographs. The paper comes from a handmade paper mill outside tl1e village of Tarihal near Hubli, in Karnataka. K.hadi papers are made from 100 per cenc cotton rag, which is known for its exceptional strength and durability, and have longer fibres than li.nters wbich are generally used in papermaking.

Ali of tl,e food outlets involved in the project "instantly grasped the concept and embraced it". Sarangi is full of praises for the restaurants, cafes and pop-ups who agreed tO be a part of tl1e project. "They were generous witb their time and let us inco their very busy working routines," she

explains. "I would describe tl1is new wave as young, healtb-focused, experimencal and passionate about what chey do."

Featured in Desh7olution are Babuji (4-6 Grey St, Sc Kilda), Delhi Streets (22 Katherine Place), Dilli 6 (290 Old Geelong Rd, Hoppers Crossing), Original Chai Co (Queen St, Opp. Shed H, Queen Vic l\farket), Overdosa (pop up stalls across 1klbonrne), Tadka Boom (22 Goldsbrough Lane) and Tonka (20 Duckboard Pl).

"Even in a city like Melbourne, which marches on its stomach, it is a very competitive and brutal scene witl1i11 tl,e hospitality industry," Sarangi says. "They each rook a risk in presenting a facet of Indian food or culture that many of the locals do not understand. Ai1d in doing so tl1ey each inadvertently took on tl1e role of being constant cultural ambassadors."

J\ native of Orissa, born and brought up in Dubai, completing her higher srudies in Singapore and tlieo moving to Australia in 2006, Sonia calls herself a global citizen.

This nomadic journey has also broadened her horizons about what Indian culrure really means and how food alwa)'S plays an intricate part, especially when you live outside India.

Sonia says that the extensive support of Mu.lticulcural Ans Victoria and Magnet Galleries has enabled her to bring these stories to life through her photographs that are quite different to what is often seen in

, , The exhibition focuses on the design and food of Melbourne's 'new wave' Indian establishments as powerful billboards for culture and diversity , , mainstream media.

"Instagram, I fear, has desensitised everyone to picture-postcard photos," Sarangi says. "My advice would be to tal-::e your time to discover an autl1entic story or copic tliat you are passionate about. Photographs don't simply capture a moment, tbey are also a powerful story telling medium. And tbe best stories are tl1ose chat come from within."

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unc

food ■

.. ...

• .•• .•• .• .•• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .•.• ;...-- ­ .• �. Cauliflower and �. Cheddar Fritters with �..• Kiwi Salsa .• .•• ...

•. ..• .• •.

Cheesy Broccoli Gems ••.•• •. .•• .•.

•. .•. .•• ..• •.

• ... . . ................................................................................................................... .

Packing a healthy school lunchbox will help your children to learn and grow

E

very parent knows the challenge of finding fun, healthy recipes to cure kids' lunchbox boredom. A good diet is essential for growth and development in children, but also for simply giving them the energy to be kids!

A key change at the start of the school year is the transition from holiday play to sitting and concentrating back at school.

Fuelling your kids with the right balance of nutrients will play a part in keeping them energised and focused throughout

• •

the day.

So how do you get the right balance of nutrients? "Keep it simple by remembering to include something from each of the five core foods groups: plenty of veggies, fruit, meat o r meat alternatives, dairy and wholegrains," says Amanda Menegazzo from The Dairy : Kichen. : If you're after some inspiration for fabulous back to school, healthy lunchbox combinations, try these recipes : from The Dairy Kitchen.

Serves 4 Preparation Time: 20 min Cooking Time: 30 min Fritters:

Ingredients

1 cup tri-colour quinoa ½ medium cauliflower, cut into fl orets ½ cup rolled oats 4 eggs, lightly beaten 6 spring onions, sliced 1 ½ cups grated cheddar cheese Finely grated rind of one lemon Oil, for shallow frying

Mai<es 30 Preparation Time: 20 min Cooking Time: 20 min Ingredients

1 medium head broccoli, cut into florets 2 spring onions, fi nely chopped 1 cup grated cheddar cheese ½ cup dried breadcrumbs 2 tbsps chopped fresh basil or parsley Salt and pepper, to taste 1 egg lightly beaten

Method

Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for

1 minute then refresh in iced water.

Drain well. Place all the ingredients except for the egg in a food processor and 'pulse' until finely chopped and combined. Add the egg and pulse to combine.

Shape approximately 2-3 teaspoons of the mixture, into nugget shapes and place on a baking paper lined tray.

Spray the gems with oil and bake at 200 ° C for 20 minutes o r until golden brown. Serve with sour cream or thick

Kiwi Salsa:

250g punnet red and yellow cherry tomatoes, quartered 1 kiwi fruit, peeled and diced 1 tbsp olive oil

Method

Rinse the quinoa and place in a medium saucepan with 2 cups water.

Bring to a boil then immediately reduce heat to a simmer, add a pinch of salt and cover and cook for 15 minutes.

Turn off the heat, fl uff with a fork and set the lid ajar to rest.

In a food processor, pulse the raw

caulifl ower until it resembles cous cous.

You will need 2 cups caulifl ower crumbs.

Remove from the processor.

Process rolled oats in the food processor until fine. Add quinoa, caulifl ower crumbs, eggs, onions, cheese and lemon to the food processor and pulse until just combined. Season to taste and set mixture aside.

Make salsa by tossing together all ingredients. Set aside.

Thinly cover the base of a large frying pan with oil and heat over medium-high heat. Drop ¼ cups of mixture into the pan and fry, in batches, for 3-5 minutes on each side, turning carefully with an egg fl ip. Cool slightly before serving with salsa.

Tip:

Tri-colour quinoa is a blend of white, red and black quinoa. Substitute any coloured quinoa if unavailable. If you don't have a food processor try grating the caulifl ower, use quick oats and toss everything together in a bowl.

Cheese & Egg Muffins Makes 6 Preparation Time: 20 min Cooking Time: 20 min Ingredients

6 small (50g) eggs 1 cup self-raising flour 1 spring onion, finely sliced 1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese ½ cup milk ¼ cup (50g) melted butter 1 large (59g) egg, lightly beaten, extra 1 tsp English-style mustard good pinch of salt 1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese, extra

Method

Preheat oven to 200 ° C (180 ° C fan

NATIONAL EDITION

forced). Line the bases of 6 x 1/3 cup muffin pans with muffin paper cases or baking paper that overhang at the top at least 2cm.

Place eggs in a small saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring the water to the boil and then simmer for 3 minutes.

Run under cold water until almost cold.

Peel, discard shells and reserve boiled eggs.

Combine flour, spring onion and cheese in a medium mixing bowl and make a well in the centre. Combine milk, butter, extra egg, mustard and salt in

a separate jug and pour into the well.

Gently stir mixture with a large metal spoon until just combined. Do not over mix.

Place 1 tablespoon of muffi n mixture into the base of each muffin case. Top with a boiled egg. Top with remaining mixture to cover. Sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and cheese is golden brown.

Cool on a wire rack and serve warm or cool. These muffins are best eaten on the day they're made.

JANUARY (2) 2017 37

india oz

■

S

andip Hor, Indian Link's Travel writer, presented at the Apeejay Kolkata Literary Fescival (AKLF) held in India from 15 to 18 January chis year. Along with Rim Menon, Prajwal Parajuly and Sundeep Bhutoria, he parcicipated in an hour-long session citied 'Taking Off: Travel Tales'.

"It was a great honour for me to attend this literary affair in my birth city as a formally invited delegate," Sanclip recounted to lndia11 Link.

Anita Nair, a highly acclaimed contemporary novelise moderated che session, presented in associacion with domescic air.line Vistara.

Kolkata, the City of Joy, is ranked as India's unquestionable intellectual epicentre, so it was not unusual to sense tl1e gusto among local Kolkacans for the AKLF, considered one of the city's signature events. Sponsored by the elite Apeejay Surrendra Group and the Oxford Bookstore, on Park Street, Kolkata, established io 1919, AKLF blossomed seven years ago in 2010 our of the bookstore's continual associacion with books, writers and publishers. Though many literary fescivals currently mushroom across the country, AKLP remains distinccive because it's the only one that has a nearly century­ old bookstore as its spearhead.

0 ■ •X a..

This year, the eighth edicion of the festival, with che overarchi11g tl1eme of "Towards Inclusiveness", was held wiiliin tl1e premises of St Paul's Cathedral, an iconic site of magnificent heritage.

Several literary personalities of naciooal and international repute took part in tl1e carnival, including Shashi Tharoor, Shobha De, Kuna! Basu, Anita Nair, Devdutt Pattanaik, Amit Chaudhuri, Urvashi Bucalia, Ananya Vajpayee and Rim Menon.

There were quite a few from overseas, Alessandro Lutman (poec from Italy), eal Hall (poet from USA), Benoit de Vilmorin (photographer from France), Michael Dwyer (publisher from UK) and Rachel Dwyer (Professor of Indian Cultures and Cinema, SOAS, University of London) among others.

L ike previous years, the literary fiesta presented many meaningful conversacions and illLuninaring discussions, deep

interaccion with thinkers and writers in the company of like-minded book lovers, discovery of new talented writers and deep engagement wicb best incellecmal and creative minds of Kolkata. Every session, from a book launch to a talk or panel discussion, reAecred the city's intimacy with the global literary forum at large.

Among the highlights of the festival was a tribute to one of the greatest Indian writers of tl1e 20th century, Kolkata-resident Mahashweta Devi, who passed away last year at tl1e age of 90.

This session was held at tl1e Presidency College and included a film screening on the writer.

Australia holds a special relationship with this event. Amongst others, the Australian Government and the Ausu·alia Council for the Arts are two major partners of this prestigious affair.

Social advocate and writer Yassmin Abdel Magied (2015 Queensla11d Young Australian of the Year) engaged tl1e audience with her inspiring talks, while Wendy \�ere, Executive Direccor from Australian School of Arts, led a delegation of Australian publishers. Hema Singh Rance, l\1[anager Culture and Public Diplomacy from the Australian High Commission was present ac the fescival, representing the Australian Government.

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NATIONAL EDITION

JANUARY (2) 2017 39

travel

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BY SANDIP HOR

ou can mix single malt whisky with only two things: a drop of water, or more whisky. So we are informed by our guide Katie as we tour the Glengoyne distillery located just outside the city limits of Glasgow. Her comment not only proclaims the most authentic way of enjoying the alcoholic beverage, but also reflects the humorous side of Scottish cbaracteL A good sense of humour is among the few things which are accepted as uniquely Scottish, ochers being whisky, bagpipes, kilts and tartans. While exploring Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, I pleasingly encounter all of cl1ese in high proportions.

Cushioned on the banks of the Ri,1er Clyde, the grid-patterned Glasgow landscape architecturally presents a wonderful mix of old and new. Though the city is said co have been born almost a millennium and a half ago, it rocketed into prosperity in the 18th cenmcy with the Industrial Revolution. Wealth started pouring in from thriving cotton manufacturing, ship building and heavy engineering works. Glasgow soon became an industrial giant and an epicentre of engineering skills.

The economic success powdered the city centre and suburbs with grand neoclassical buildings that demonstrated architecmral ingenuity. Many of them still exist and fascinate the modern generation, with die

40 JANUARY (2) 2017

...

argest ·city�-

most outstanding being the City Chambers.

Dominating George Square, the heart of Glasgow, this edifice of Italian Renaissance sty.le was opened by Queen Viccoria in 1888. Guided cours are available to take visitors through the interiors where the entrance haU's vaulted ceilings, Venetian mosaics and the murals in the banqueting haU, command appreciation. The other nearby buildings that draw attention are die former Post Office, Merchant House and Royal Exchange Building which now houses the Gallery of Modern An. However, most worth admiring for architectural buffs are cl1e works of local boy Charles Rennie Mackintosh. An innovative architect, at the turn of the 20th cenmcy l\1ackintosh .introduced a new sty.le in building design, internationally acclaimed as 'Glasgow Style Arc Nom1eau'.

His legacies can be spotted all over the city and many travel to Glasgow just to see them in detail and tmderstand his style.

The Glasgow School of Art is the most celebrated work of his illustrious career.

This instimtion was built between 1897 and 1909 to a design that he submitted co a competition. Some of his other distinguished works are the buildings for the Glasgow Herald newspaper, which was his first major design in 1893, d1e Willow Tea Rooms and the Queens Cross, the only clrnrch designed by the .legendary architect.

With the decline of the ship building industry and ocl1er engineering works, Glasgow was immersed into da.rkness for a period, but has again blossomed with a new .lease of life showing boldness in everything from architecmre and fashion shopping to .luxury accommodation and fine dining.

The old shipyards and docklands have been reclaimed and are now dotted with

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traditional Scottish music live.

Glasgow is often referred co as the 'City of Music', hosci.ng over a hundred musical events every week; the music business adds around 75 million pounds per year to the Glasgow economy. However, the overall music scene stretches across a much wider spectrum from classical and contemporary to Celtic and country to cater for every taste and fascination.

'People make Glasgow' is the slogan of the Glasgow City Markeci.ng Bureau. Most visitors will agree. Glaswegians are the friendliest bunch of people, always ready co warmly welcome anyone stepping into their city. They use their sharp wit to

commercial, residential and leisure outlets.

The former Merchant City, where sugar and cobacco merchants traded since the 12tl1 century, has been rejuvenated with trendy cafes and brasseries. Shopping at Buchanan Street and SauchiehaU Street competes with London's Oxford Street.

The design of the Riverside Museum and Science Centre gleams with avant­ garde th.inking. All this 21st century progress led to Glasgow hosting tl1e 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Cultural aficionados love this city, which is home co more than 20 world-class museums and gaUerjes showcasing a ruverse range of exhibits from European classics at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museunl co cutting-age contemporary works ar the Gallery of Modern Art. Riverside Musellln

NATIONAL EDITION

is tl1e ideal venue ro learn more abour rhe city's industrial heritage, while Glasgow Science Centre introduces visicors of aU ages co simple science and engineering fundRrnentals.

Buskers playing bagpipes will thrill music lovers. The National Piping Centre is tl1e obvious choice for those keen to gain an insight inro the history and status of bagpipe music. A weU-experienced bagpiper takes you tl1rough the rich history of Scotland's national musical instrument.

The Museum of Piping holds three hundred )'ears of piping heritage. Among several exhibits the most outstanding is a 250-year-old Highland bagpipe chanter, said co be the oldest of its kind in the world. The best part of the guided tour comes when the bagpiper plays some

Clockwise from top left: Enjoying a local whisky experience;; A traditional bagpipes performance; Gallery of Modern Art at dusk; Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum; Wandering along Buchanan Street; City Chambers at George Sq; Fine dining connect with people. When their witci.ness is compared with that of Edinburgh, they respond by saying, ''People of Glasgow have a better time at a funeral than people of Edinburgh have during a wedding".

Unquestionably chat's the spirit of Glasgow - to have fun whenever, wherever.

Fly Qatar Airways (www.qatarairways.com) from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth, via Doha, to Edinburgh from where Glasgow is only an hour away by train, bus or taxi.

Established inside a former Greek Orthodox Church, Malmaison Hotel (www.malmaison.com), offers super slinky rooms, spectacular food and convenient location.

The Gannet (www.thegannetgla.com) for seafood, Gamba (www.

II• gamba.co.uk) for fine dining and Mister Singh's India (www.mistersinghsindia. com) for curries.

• The Gannet (www.thegannetgla.com) for seafood, Gamba (www.gamba.co.uk) for fine dining and Mister Singh's India (www. mistersinghsindia.com) for curries.

I The Gannet (www.thegannetgla.com) for seafood, Gamba (www.

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JANUARY (2) 2017 41

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el n n a h c r u o to e ·b subscr1 JANUARY (2) 2017 43

entertainment

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FILM: XXX: THE RETURN OF XANDER CAGE

I well be one of them, provided how I simple you like your pleasure.

STARRING: Vin Diesel, Deepika Padukone DIRECTOR: D.J. Caruso

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D.J. Caruso, let's call him DJ for fun, is a man with a mission. Mission 'Impassable'. Treading a trickly trippy tactile territory where the slow-drip creativity of the writing team rapidly seeps into the film's aggressive action rendering it ineffectual and finally redundant, XXX is strictly for fans of Diesel.

They get their money's worth in his introductory sequence where playing the do-gooder in a Spanish town he steals electrical equipment from on top of a transformer, surf-boards his way through the roads at full speed giving high-fives to the passers-by in cars and trucks, and reaches in time to plug-in the community television for a football game for the kids.

Awwwwwwww!

Life is all about the simple pleasures.

XXX: The Return Of Xander Cage could

Diesel's opening antics tells us what we knew all along. Diesel playing Xander Cage is in this for fun. Director DJ ups the masti quotient to a point where the terror attacks that Cage and his motley team counters appear to be little more than video-games pumped up to be I accommodated on the large screen with mammoth garnish that includes a relentlessly orgasmic background score which reminds us to not take the fi lm's derring-do seriously. Not really.

There is an impressively staged shootout d.uring a global summit against terrorism when a super-skilled marauder crashes through the glass to disrupt I the goings-on. DJ knows how turn up I the volume. But he doesn't know how to control the pitch so that the shindigs often get shrill in tone.

Vin Diesel saving the world is a kind of doped-out take on what Tom Cruise and James Bond do on one of their less meaningful days of countering I catastrophe. The arch-villains trying to destroy the world in XXX are a bit of a joke. At one point a CIA agent is uncovered as a nuke-planting terrorist.

Within minutes, he is swiftly disposed of by Diesel and his team. Momentum be damned.

That brings me to Deepika Padukone.

Is she or is she not well represented in her first global appearance? The answer to that is not easy. While she makes an impressive entry into the plot, slipping stealthily through an automatic door before it closes on her (some symbolism in that?) the rest of her role does not allow her the same feline grace. Two others of her female co-stars - Ruby Rose playing a hard-nosed sharp shooter and Nina Dobrev as fast-talking computer nerd - bring far more zing to the table.

And zing, let me tell you, is the thing in XXX. This is a film that beseeches you to set aside all your lofty notions on epic heroism. Saving the world would have never looked more fun had this franchise film only managed to preserve a kind of tongue-in-cheek goofiness that made Deadpoo/ so deadly in its impact.

In XXX: The Return Of Xander Cage I got the feeling that everyone is trying to be sassy and cool, and not quite getting there. The opening in a restaurant has the routinely reliable Samuel L Jackson trying to convince a young sportsman to join the XXX team. Now, this is supposed to be an outrageously funny sequence meant to lull our senses into a state of heightened submission for the big bang that follows. However, there are many a slip between the corpse and their leaps.

The poorly written dialogues and the

build-up of sequence from bathos to bang is tragically shaky and uncertain.

Throughout the film the actors are thrown to their own devices while the writers and the director think of bigger better ways to fill up the screen with a voluptuous mayhem. While some of the actors come off pretty well considering the anorexia nervosa that grips the plot, Deepika Padukone sadly doesn't make it. And Toni Collette playing what looks a send-off on Judi Dench's "M" is risibly androgynous in her attitude, dress and speech. She typifies the film's neither­ here-nor-there attitude.

The action is first-rate, though.

The fight-stunt on the fl yover and the highway is so commanding that we almost wish the rest of the film would remain the same. Alas, it is downhill all the way, so much so that when the hijinks suddenly end we find ourselves asking, "Is this it?"

In the climactic finale, a pivotal character watches a prayer-meet for his own death. I somehow felt the other characters doing the same all through.

This franchise is actually dead. It is neither funny nor portentous. It's just a whole lot of skilfully executed spectacle looking for a reason to be loved by an audience that doesn't want to go away disappointed.

Even cinematographer Russell Carpenter, who did such a brilliant job recently in Parched, cannot seem to make sense of the skimpy resources at his disposal. It's like trying to fit Deepika Padukone's never-ending legs into AbRam Khan's new treehouse.

Nonetheless, if you are willing to go with the furious fl ow of mindless mojo, you won't find it hard to enjoy the film.

Subhash K Jha

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-

OK JAANU

STARRING: Aditya Roy Kapur, Shraddha Kapoor, Leela Samson, Naseeruddin Shah DIRECTOR: Shaad Ali

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A Gen-Y girl and boy meet, are physically attracted, become friends, live together,

COFFEE WITH D

STARRING: John Abraham, Sonakshi Sinha, Tahir Raj Bhasin, Adil Husain, Narendra Jha DIRECTOR: Abhinay Deo

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Coffee with D is a satire designed on the

popularity of a primetime news anchor famed for his loud tirade with the appendix, "The nation wants to know".

In a battle for TRPs (Television Rating Points) and in order to keep his "news" show afl oat and thereby his job, news anchor Amab Ghosh (Sunil Grover) devises an idea to invite the Pakistan­ based dreaded underworld don 'D' to his show. How he goes about organising this shenanigan, forms the crux of the tale.

Director Vishal Mishra's story has an interesting premise. On the face of it, it sounds great, but the wafer-thin plot and the languid pace of the film, along with its one-dimensional and poorly etched characters who are moulded as caricatures, is its undoing. The writing, barring a few dialogues, is replete with mediocrity. The forced attempt at humour is stereotypical and trite.

While the entire first half is focussed NATIONAL EDITION

sans any commitment, then eventually fall in love and get married. Familiar?

Extremely. Trite, oft-seen and offering nothing new. That in a nutshell, is Shaad Ali's OK Jaanu.

Adi (Aditya Roy Kapur), a fun-loving, small town guy who creates video games, aspires to make it big and settle down in the US but does not believe

on building the aura of Arnab and his predicament, the second half concentrates on his interview with D. Overall, the screenplay lacks drama and excitement. Also, the performances by the lead characters seem staged and theatrical.

Sunil Grover, the stand-up comedian reputed for his popular comic characters in several avatars, is a competent actor, but is miscast in the role of a suave news anchor. Nevertheless, minus the persona of the character, he delivers as an actor.

Anjana Sukhani as his pregnant wife Parul, is effortlessly natural. Dipannita Sharma as Neha, Amab's colleague who accompanies him to Pakistan for the interview, is painfully cliched.

Pankaj Tripathi as Girdhari, D's Man-Friday, shines in a nuanced performance.

in marriage. Tara (Shraddha Kapoor), a girl from a broken home who abhors the institution of marriage, is studying architecture and hopes to pursue further studies in Paris. They meet by chance and are attracted instantly and become friends. Living together where neither of them can haq jutao on the other, is their convenient arrangement.

They are happy together, partying, going on long drives and yes, even sleeping together.

Sadly, the fi lm is predictable from word go and drags at an even keel, offering no twists or drama, making the viewing extremely tedious. The treatment too is not novel and offers nothing that has not been portrayed earlier. The film is a mish-mash of several such films with the same theme.

Garbed in artifice, the story credited to Mani Ratnam adds no magic to the film.

Aditya Roy Kapur is competent and essays his happy-go-lucky character with ease but is bound by the limited script which does not allow him to go beyond a certain level. His chemistry with Shraddha Kapoor is palpable, but that's all there is to it.

Shraddha Kapoor too is her usual confident and charming self, but is not able to add any nuance to her fl at character.

Naseeruddin Shah as the Judge, in

whose house Adi lives, is a treat to watch. He is effortless in his portrayal of the loving and caring husband to his wife Charu (Leela Samson) who suffers from Alzheimer's disease.

Leela Samson is endearing and natural, but Kitu Gidwani, in a miniscule role as Tara's high-profile mother, offers nothing by way of performance.

The climax is stretched unnecessarily if only to make the young couple realise and declare their love for each other with the devotion of the older couple towards each other as the backdrop.

A deliberate attempt that appears very contrived.

The scenes appear disconnected and the actions of the characters often defy logic. Shaad Ali merely goes on with the narrative, as if with a set intention of telling a story, no matter how cliched.

There is no element of freshness to the plot.

A.R. Rahman's music is the only solace the film offers and the new rendition of 'Humma Humma' is a good attempt and well-picturised, albeit in its modern avatar. Unfortunately, Gulzar's dialogues too fail to leave an impact, as in keeping with the fl avour of the film, the lines lack depth.

Overall, OK Jaanu is a strictly ok film, devoid of anything new o r interesting.

Troy Ribeiro

COFF

Zakir Hussain's portrayal of D lacks lustre. The character is crafted in a perfunctory manner and the actor does not offer anything new to his role. The comic lines he mouths undoubtedly elicit a few chuckles.

The rest of the cast members that propel the humour in the narrative are stereotypical and insufferable.

With moderate production values and tacky sets, cinematographer Anshul Chobey's static and boring frames capture the drama befitting a television broadcast.

The 2D graphics in the film in the song sequence, and as a scene, are equally amateurish and insipid.

With a run-time of over two hours, the film drags unnecessarily. A few minutes into the film and the novelty factor wears off with the narrative fatigue setting in.

In his directorial debut, Vishal Mishra disappoints as he fails to wield the baton effectively. The film is mediocre fare and you can safely avoid this coffee, unless you are a Sunil Grover fan.

Troy Ribeiroo

JANUARY (2) 2017 45

entertainment

----------------------------U P-TO-DATE NEWS ON WHAT'S HOT AND HAPPENING IN BOLLYWOOD

DEV PATEL HEADS TO THE OSCARS

A TRAIN R I DE WITH SRK

S

hah Rukh Khan had one mission in mind when he got onto a train to promote his film Raees - to get closer to his fans. But he didn't anticipate that his stardom would spell trouble for his admirers, inside as well as outside the train.

For many, it would have been a dream-come-true to know that their favourite star was just a couple of carriages away from them. But it soon turned into a nightmare, with bulky bodyguards cordoning off an entire carriage for the star, the frenzy around his presence in the train, and the inability of passengers to get on or off.

Trains have been an intrinsic part of Shah Rukh's movies (Chaiyya chaiyya, Di/wale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Chennai Express). Perhaps that was the reason he decided to take a train from Mumbai to Delhi to promote his new film. After starting off on the right note, the train ride got engulfed into controversy due to the death of a fan on Vadodara station, and injuries suffered by others.

As the fans went berserk and got out of control, actor Sunny Leone who was on board, rightly described the train as 'a tightly packed sardine can'. That it truly was.

For me, the journey began much before the 5:40 pm start. To many, the idea of taking a Delhi-Mumbai flight, only to take a train back, may seem senseless, but it made total sense with Shah Rukh for company.

I channelled Kajol from Di/wale Dulhania Le Jayenge, running against time to make it on the train. Only, Shah Rukh was not waiting at the gate and I was instead wading through a maddening crowd.

The euphoric tunes of Udi udijaye, the garba track from Raees, added to the jubilant mood. Luckily, the actor, who is infamous for being late at events, was on time this time.

His plan involved waving to the crowd at nine stops, Vapi, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Ratlam, Kota and Mathura.

Everywhere it was the same fan frenzy - people jumping on to tracks, climbing on the top of the train, banging on windows - without thinking of their own safety. Other people huddled together on stairs, and up some poles as well. The craze was there for all to see, with people's shoes loitered all around the platform as they ran amok looking for SRK. It left us pondering on the extent to which fans can go for the screen idol.

Inside the train, we hoped and prayed that no one would be hurt. Sunny, peeping out of the window with curiosity, was heard muttering: "I don't want anybody to get hurt. Oh, there's a guy with a stick ... Please don't hit anybody. I will start to cry."

Alas, everyone's fear came true with the news of one fan - a relative off a female journalist travelling in the train - dying at the station. There are confl icting theories about the death: some claim he had a cardiac arrest, others that he was suffocated to death due to the stampede-like situation.

The fun of the train ride soon faded away, casting a pall of gloom.

SRK has been blamed for the mayhem, but we saw him on his toes trying to pacify his team. He appeared shaken as he stepped in for a chat with scribes very late at night. There was no stardom to be seen as he spoke to us straight from the heart.

Consoling the journalist who had just lost a loved one, Shah Rukh organised for members of his security team to accompany her and her mother back to Vadodara.

Could this major publicity event have been planned better? Probably.

Is SRK to blame? Probably not.

Sugandha Rawal 46 JANUARY (2) 2017

Dev Patel said he felt an "overwhelming sense of gratitude" for receiving an Oscar nomination (Best Actor in a Supporting Role) for his film Lion.

The Indian-origin British actor is up against actors like Mahershala Ali (Moonlight) and Jeff Bridges (He// or High Water) for the trophy, which will be given away at the 89th Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles on February 26.

What makes the moment so much more "poignant" is that he has just wrapped up shooting another film in India.

"This enthralling country holds such a deep place in my heart, and it is where Saroo Brierley's journey was born," Dev said in a release. "(The film) reaffirms the message that love is not dictated by the colour of your skin, not by race, gender, sexuality, social status or origin. It is a message I am proud to be spreading during these uncertain times," he said.

"This will forever be one of the most memorable experiences of my life," he added.

Meanwhile musician AR Rahman has missed out on a nomination in the Original Score category. He was long­ listed in an initial list of 145 scores, with two nominations for his work in Pele: Birth of a Legend, a biographical film about the early life of Brazilian footballer Pele.

BATTLE OF THE BLOCKBUSTERS: KAABIL VERSUS RAEES

It's a box office clash that has been widely spoken about - but there are high chances that Kaabil and Raees will both do exceedingly well as they are both eminently watchable fi lms.

Both films are releasing this week.

Both are love stories. Intense love stories.

In Kaabil, Hrithik Roshan loves his wife to death, and he is ready to go to any lengths to avenge the wrong done to her. The last 20 minutes of the film are so 'heart-in-the-mouth', you would be advised to hold your bursting bladders until the last drop of blood is shed and avenged on screen.

It is by far Sanjay Gupta's best work, more emotional and dramatic than any of the violent sagas he has narrated in the past. Hrithik gives his finest, most searing and passionate performance since Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai and Guzaarish. His intensity is disturbing, even haunting.

Raees is also a love story. And it's got nothing to do with Mahira Khan. Shah Rukh Khan's character of a man of ill­ gotten power and wealth from Gujarat in the 1980s, is in love. With himself.

Since I believe Shah Rukh in real life truly loves himself, the merger of the actor and the character is so brutally complete, it's like watching mirror images of two identical souls - one off camera, the other on it - dressed in very different clothes.

Raees is also about how two heterosexual men can be bonded spiritually even while being on separate sides of the firing line. This is perhaps the first time in his entire career as a leading man that Shah Rukh has found a co-star who is compelling in his own right.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui, when pitched against Shah Rukh, truly defines what 'The Clash Of The Titans' means. He does with Shah Rukh what a Rishi Kapoor or Vinod Khanna could never do with Amitabh Bachchan.

The two actors keep us ruthlessly riveted to the screen. The movement of the plot is almost maniacal, to match the energy and mutinous passion of the two men at each other's throats.

More than anything else, the two films this week prove what Hindi cinema has known all along. Nothing can replace the cult of superstardom.

The mysticism, magic and magnetism that Khan and Roshan bring to the screen, have to be seen to be believed.

Don't pick one between Raees and Kaabil. Go see both.

B-TOWN QU ESTIONS WORTH OF POPULAR FILM AWARDS

After veteran Rishi Kapoor's revelation about "buying" a Best Actor Award for Rs 30,000 once upon a time, Bollywood celebrities like Raakhee, Subhash Ghai, Taapsee Pannu and Prasoon Joshi have raised questions on the credibility of popular film awards.

Here's what they had to say: Raakhee: When I was told I was getting the award for Best Actress in an awful film called Be-lmaan, I said I wouldn't accept it. Not when just a few years earlier they refused to give me the award for what I thought was a commendable performance in Sharmeelee. They chose to give Asha Parekh the Best Actress award that year for Kati Patang. Shockingly, they didn't even give Sachin Dev Burman the Best Music award for his soulful www.indianlink.com.au

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ASHLEY-JUDD

What's the chitchat between DEEPIKA PADUKONE and ELLEN?

HRITHIK ROSHAN music in Sharmee/ee. In fact, Sachin and his son Rahul Dev Burman hardly ever got awards.

Tapsee Pannu: Awards, for me, are wonderful television shows. The trophies look good on your living room shelves. That's about it.

Tillotama Shome: I wouldn't know about popular awards because I've never been nominated for any, let alone won. If I did win ever, I'd feel accepted as part of this wonderful fraternity.

Never mind. We unsung artistes are like wild fl owers. We will grow even through the cracks.

Paresh Rawal: Popular awards are worthless and useless. They are big marketing events with no substance.

A glaring omission was my film OMG - Oh My God! which didn't get any nominations in the popular awards.

There are innumerable such sins of omission. Awards are as useless as a tail on a teddy bear.

Subhash Ghal: Popular awards lost their credibility long ago when they were turned into star-studded stage shows and commercial events for television channels. Filmfare was the first awards function to turn commercial when they tied up with a gutka brand. The rest followed. Earlier, all the awards were for excellence and not for commercial branding. Unlike the Oscars, which we still respect for maintaining authenticity, I attend our popular awards in the spirit of a festive gathering. I only feel excited when I see

ASHLEY J UDD IN KOLKATA

the awards for best debutants. That means we have new talent coming in.

Saurabh Shukla: There are too many awards. And an excess of anything leads to boredom. If you eat too much chocolate, the craving is replaced by nausea. You can't get excited about Holi if you had to play it seven times a year. Awards are a celebration of talent.

If you have too many choices they are no longer exciting.

Satlsh Kaushlk: Too many players spoil the game. These are more like reality shows than awards functions. I miss the days when there was one awards function, the Filmfare awards, and the whole industry used to wait for it.

Prasoon Joshi: They are a kind of reality television. They are designed to entertain viewers. Award functions are like consumer products. If we come to terms with this, it is easy to comprehend the presence of so many brands functioning within the awards space. As long as we recognize today's average awards function as a consumer item, we are fine. India to that extent, is unique. However, I feel National awards are a little different as they are not marketing tools.

Shallendra Singh (head honcho of Percept Ltd): It's a buffet out there. You eat everything. But you don't respect or enjoy anything.

WHO WORE IT BETTER?

PRIYANKA CHOPRA or KENDALL JENNER in OLCAY GULSEN?

+ Share your views

with us on our Facebook page /lndianLinkAustralia

NATIONAL EDITION

Hollywood actor and acclaimed humanitarian Ashley Judd went straight from the Women's March in Washington held to coincide with US President Donald Trump's inauguration, to Kolkata to mingle with children from red light areas.

The Divergent and Double Jeopardy star was in the city to attend the Kolkata Literary Meet.

Supporting the NGO Apne Aap in combating sex trafficking, Judd was seen tying shoe laces for the children and playing with them. She also visited Sonagachi, one of Asia's biggest red light areas, during her stay in the eastern metropolis.

The United Nations Population Fund's Goodwill Ambassador reinforced her message to end human trafficking by posting pictures from an outing with the children.

One of her many tweets from the visit read: "From Kolkata with love. #CoolMenDontBuySex @RightsforGirls @apneaap #EndSexTrafficking."

At the Women's March Judd had performed a poem written by poet Nina Donovan, "Nasty Woman", to thundering applause.

WHAT TWEETY BIRD TOLD US THIS WEEK

Can you match the tweets to the stars who tweeted them? Priyanka Chopra, Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Hrithik Roshan, Amitabh Bachchan, Proud moment for all of us. PINK now available on @TheFilmPink #Pink #PinkOnNetfl ix Just a little shout of love for all the praise for my#KaabilETareef team!

Thank you !!!

Beyond thrilled & overwhelmed with the amazing response & reactions to #Se renaUnger!#xXx:ReturnOfXanderCage Thank You for all the LOVE! Be warned, Summer brings Victoria Leeds. #BeBaywatch @baywatchmovie On train & listening to the new song from Raees. Dhandhe Ka #Dhingana...

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

What's the chitchat between LION sta rs DEV PATEL and SONNY PAWAR here?

Dev: Slumdog street stars are a lucky omen for me. Bring the Oscars on, 2017!!

SUMANA RAO Ashfield NSW Sumana wins a ticket to new Hindi release Raees

JANUARY (2) 2017 47

backchat

----------------------------To (F)B or not to (F)B DEAR AUNTYJI

I was hoping for your advice. A few days ago, my husband and I were coming home from work at dusk. We saw a very old lady crossing the street and she was nearly hit by a car - as she was crossing while it was a green light for traffic.

When we walked past her, she looked confused, and because she looked 80 years old, I stopped to ask if she was ok.

She did not speak much English, and seemed disoriented. In any case, we live close to a police station, and while the lady told us the name of the street she lived on, she kept on walking in the opposite direction. Fearing for her safety as she had no awareness of traffic, we walked with her until we reached the police station. We told the police officers about the lady and it turns out the lady was a missing person. She was reunited with her family and I was very pleased for her. When I came home later that night, I posted about this event on Facebook and explained how we had helped an old lady. My brother's new wife told me that I should not have posted this on social media, and said that when good deeds are done, they should not be boasted about on Facebook. I was very surprised by this comment. Everyone else told me that we had done a good deed and god knows what would have happened to the poor lady had we not helped her. I am still troubled by Rayna's comment.

I don't like what she said and I want to bring this up at the Australia Day BBQ at

my brother's place. Can you please tell me Auntyji how 1 can counter Rayna's argument?

AUNTYJI SAYS

Well, aren't you just a sanctimonious little do-gooder, who after doing a good deed, had to let the world know how wonderful a person you are? Why was it so important for you to put on FB that you had helped someone? Why did you have to broadcast your Good Samaritan act for others to comment on in order for you to get double the good feeling?

Are you really that starved for attention that you need the comments of others to prolong the feel-good sentiments inspired by your good act? In this instance, I completely, 100% agree with Rayna. She is right. When one does a good deed, there is no reason to let everyone know about it. In fact, this makes me wonder what your motivation was for helping the poor lady. Clearly, you must have been desperate to get home to post on social media what you had achieved. You really should have more class - if you help someone in the future, shut up about it. No one needs to know.

And don't you even think about going to the BBQ and bringing this up. Rayna did you a favour by calling out your hypocrisy. Only a fool would now try to argue with her. Hang out more with Rayna, she sounds like a smart woman.

You could learn from her.

How do I get him to quit?

DEAR AUNTYJ I

I am so angry! Every single day I am getting angrier and angrier. My stupid, stupid husband, who has been promising me that he would give up smoking when he started his new job, is six weeks into his new job and shows no signs of giving up those cigarettes. He has not even tried. He has been promising for seven years to give up, and I feel that he is selfish for not considering our future together by compromising his health. Every cigarette compromises his health, and I know that life will become very difficult if he gets sick. In fact, when he has a minor cold, he takes to the bed and wants me to wait on him hand and foot. He always uses one excuse after another about giving up smoking and I am at the end of my patience. My uncle, grandfather and father-in-law all died from smoking­ related illnesses and I am terrified this will happen to my husband as well.

Auntyji, my husband is now over 40 and has been smoking for 20 years. Can you please give me guidance?

die someday, except in your husband's case, this will probably happen sooner, and will be a painful horrible death. If you accept this then move on - because there are no guarantees in life and your husband could just as easily die crossing the road while texting. On the other hand, it appears that your husband is on a particular death wish, and is taking advantage of your good nature. So the solution is simple. If you do not wish to be an enabler, pack your bags and go. Rather than waiting for the inevitable visit to the doctor when your husband starts coughing up his tar-tilled lungs, you may as well escape while you can from this selfish man. You deserve better. Leave now and let your husband hang out with his best buddies Peter Stuyvesant and Peter Jackson. No doubt, they will be there to give him comfort when he has to speak through a tube after his tracheotomy.

AUNTYJI SAYS

You know, even Barack Obama gave up cigarettes because Michelle did not condone this behaviour. Yes, your husband is incredibly selfi sh and seems to have prioritised his addiction over a healthy future with you. So, what do you do? You can accept your husband with his failings, and know that we will all

Do you have a question for Auntyji? Email info@indianlink.com.au

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