2018-01 Brisbane

FREE JANUARY 2018 • info@indianlink.com.au • indianlink.com.au Cicily Matthew

Ruturaj Vaidya

BRISBANE Aarushi Chadha

7 1 0 2 F O S S C LA Shiv Gandhi

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Nandini Shelke

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EDITORIAL

INDIAN LINK PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra ASSISTANT EDITOR Harshad Pandharipande

Canadian Gurdwara ban sets a dangerous precedent

MELBOURNE COORDINATOR Preeti Jabbal CONTRIBUTORS Shampa Bhattacharya Bruweleit, Charuta Joshi, Himani Kothari, LP Ayer, Minnal Khona ADVERTISING MANAGER Vivek Trivedi 0410 578 146 ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Charuta Joshi 02 9279 2004

Indian Link is a fortnightly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Indian Link, may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Opinions carried in Indian Link are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Indian Link. All correspondence should be addressed to INDIAN LINK MEDIA GROUP Level 24/44 Market St, Sydney 2000 or GPO Box 108, Sydney 2001 Ph: 02 9279-2004 Fax: 02 9279-2005 Email: info@indianlink.com.au

BY PAWAN LUTHRA

D

ays after 14 gurdwaras in Ontario Canada banned the entry of Indian government representatives, other Gurudwaras in Canada and US have followed suit. The Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC) and American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (APGC) have claimed that 96 gurdwaras in the United States have resolved to ban the entry of Indian officials.

This ban has been extended to RSS and Shiv Sena members from entering gurudwaras under their control. The UKbased Sikh Federation has proposed a similar ban.

The gurudwaras that have passed the resolution have done so as they hold the Indian government responsible for the June 1984 events when the Army entered the Sri Harmandar Sahib or Golden Temple and

40 other gurdwaras, to flush out militants hiding there. They also have accused the Indian government of interfering in the internal affairs of gurudwara management.

These developments in the Indian and Sikh diaspora are an unfortunate setback to India as it continues to develop its soft influence overseas. What has also been surprising is the anti-India sentiment which seems to have surfaced amongst parts of the overseas Indian community. It seems that while Sikhs in India have long since been reconciled with the government, resentment continues to simmer among expatriates in Canada and the US. As we go to print, there have been no similar bans made by the Sikh gurudawaras in Australia. In a recent incident, the Indian High Commissioner Ajay Gondane was accosted at a Melbourne gurudwara by a group of passionate attendees who wanted to vocalise their support for what they believed were unfair issues in Punjab. The community rallied behind the High Commissioner, taking to task the organisers behind the protest, appalled at the uncivilised manner in which it was undertaken rather than the content of

their grievances.

Over the years, the Sikh community in Australia has been at the forefront of building tolerance and understanding between the mainstream Australian and Indian communities. From the time of the 9/11 World Tower attacks, when the Indian community here rallied together to explain that turban-wearing Sikhs are not terrorists, to the outcry through social media when a young Sikh boy in Melbourne was denied entry to an exclusive Melbourne school thanks to his headgear, to the pride that is felt when the Sikh regiments and their descendants march at Anzac Day parades, we as IndianAustralians of all backgrounds and regions have supported each other as we have built a better life for ourselves and our children in our new home in Australia.

The choice is ours: we can pass on to future generations an appreciation of our heritage which they can utilise to advance their modern lives as individuals and as communities, or we can be bogged down by politics of division and hate from over 30 years ago when even people in India have moved so far on.

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YOUR SAY

2017 IN PICTURES

Our video collage of the best images from 2017 ‘clicked’ with a lot of readers Avi Chandiok wrote: Looking at the YouTube pics just shows how much work you all have done this year and do every year. All to such a high standard.

Gaurav Masand said: The compilation of all pictures from the year was wonderful.

GOOGLE HOME: AT YOUR COMMAND

PRIYANKA TATER reviewed a smart gadget Jack Smith wrote: Had the Echo since late 2014 and now several Google Homes. The big difference is the Echo requires commands that you have to memorize to use versus the Google Home supports natural language for most things. Makes the Google Home far easier to interact with.

BOWLED OVER

The BBL is a great format to get kids - including his son -interested in cricket, wrote SANAM SHARMA Ila Upadhyaya Barmola wrote: God bless the future cricketer with abundant happiness, everlasting success n unlimited scores… Lots of love little champ.

A ‘BEHTAREEN’ WAY OF ENJOYING BBL

The Hindi commentary on selected BBL and WBBL games was a superhit and widely heard. A BBL Facebook post about it racked up 23,000 views and over 100 likes Amy Dixon wrote: I’m surprised at the balance of languages in the commentary, specifically the amount of English for concepts like offside and leg stump. Thanks for posting.

Rani A wrote: Lovely to hear Hindi cricket commentary. Some wonderful insights from Sanjiv Dubey Aman Agarwal wrote: Fan from Calcutta Swapan Basu remarked: Nice yaar Reeti Trivedi wrote: Fun and insightful at the same time. Brought back memories from my childhood

WHO WORE IT BETTER?

A few days ago, we asked who was looking better, Padma Lakshmi or Lea Michele, in a Cushnie Et Ochs dress?

Preeti Jabbal wrote: This dress needs oomph and curves and Lea Michelle is rocking it .Sorry PL Rajinder Kaur agreed: Lee Michele Leyla Singh wrote: Lea Michele

4 JANUARY 2018

MAKING A MARK

CHARUTA JOSHI interviewed India women cricket team’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur on her selection in the WBBL. Krishna Neelamraju wrote: The Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) is presenting exciting new opportunities to the Indian women cricketers, helping them expand their horizons and gain crucial overseas experience. More excitingly, with the recruitment of the Indian stars, WBBL has the potential to reap a bonanza in cricket’s hottest media market - India.

India women cricket team’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur broke new ground in 2016 by becoming the first Indian player, male or female, to play in the Big Bash League after being picked up by the inaugural champions Sydney Thunders. Even though the Thunders couldn’t sustain their form in the second edition, Kaur’s stellar performances for her team won all-round praise and she became an easy pick for two more seasons. This success story of the Punjabi lass from Moga will inspire other Indian women cricketers to set sights on the WBBL. The 2016/17 WBBL02 season saw two superstars of Indian cricket, 21year old Smriti Mandhana and the 28-year old Kaur making their debut.

While Mandhana failed to excite and could not renew her contract, Kaur grabbed the opportunity with both hands. She became the Thunders team’s lead scorer for the season with an enviable average of 59.20 and earned a permanent place with the team. The all-rounder is now an integral part of the Thunders’ strategy to reclaim their title.

Overseas T20 leagues present golden opportunities for young Indian cricketers to play in different conditions and improve their skills. Harmanpreet Kaur is a great example for that.

The Indian captain’s experience training with the Aussies in their own backyard helped her rise to the occasion during the 2017 edition of ICC Women’s World Cup Semi-Final against Australia. Coming to the crease with India under pressure at 2-35, Kaur unleashed a monster innings of 171* of 115 balls that included 7 sixes and 20 fours. The record-breaking effort helped India secure a berth in the final. The Aussies witnessed with awe what a formidable player Kaur is and this no doubt played a part in the two-year contract renewal Kaur bagged.

Kaur’s Aussie adventures have serendipitously come at a transformative moment for the women’s cricket. The Women’s World Cup saw record viewership of more than 180 million people worldwide of which 156 million were in India alone. The final between England and India was played in front of a frenzied, sold-out crowd on the Lord’s cricket ground, the likes of which Women’s cricket has never seen before. It is no secret that the hard-core cricket fans of India are driving the game’s popularity worldwide and they seem to have found a new interest in women’s cricket.

Considering this, it will be a very savvy move to include more Indian players in the WBBL line ups. The opening match of the 2017/18 WBBL03 season on 9 Dec 2017 saw Kaur take a spectacular forward-diving catch to complete the Thunders’ win. The Aussie media may not have given it a lot of coverage, but the Indian media rolled out ecstatic coverage of the catch and the contenthungry news channels played the video on loop. This kind of media attention can help WBBL fill a gap in the lucrative Indian sports market while IPL remains restricted to men’s cricket.

WBBL03 season saw another Indian player, the flamboyant Veda Krishnamurthy, join the Hobart Hurricanes. If she is able to replicate Kaur’s success, more doors may open. At a time when interest is fast rising in women’s cricket, seeing a familiar face or a crowd favourite on the TV screens may capture the Indian viewer’s fancy. It will be a win-win for both the Australian and the Indian women cricket if WBBL can break through the Indian market, even for a few years before the inevitable launch of women’s IPL.

STAYING SAFE IN TWILIGHT YEARS

An event to mark Prevention of Elder Abuse Family Day sought to raise awareness about this issue. CARL BUHARIWALA reported Dilnaz Billimoria wrote: Please accept my personal thanks for always supporting our endeavours to promote harmony in the Indian community and to build bridges of trust between organisations, government bodies and CALD communities. Carl, thank you for attending our Prevention of Financial Elder Abuse Forum for the Indian community and your report in Indian Link. Building awareness of sensitive issues is the way forward, be it elder abuse, family violence, women’s health, etc with CALD focus.

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LOVE IS LOVE

FRIENDS IN DEED

HARSHAD PANDHARIPANDE wrote about online communities helping migrants in real life.

Vikramjeet Singh, whose mum’s treatment was crowdfunded by the group members, wrote: Thanks to everyone for supporting me and sharing my problem with others. I really appreciate all IIS members. Thanks to group admin also who allowed me to raise fund from their page. Thanks once again to all of you Gaurav Wadekar, who was also featured in the article, wrote: It is an honour to be featured along with Desi Referral Network in the cover story published by Indian Link. This is truly amazing in terms of the effort that you are putting in helping people.

Krish Na wrote: A heart-warming article. Great job, people!

Prateek Saxena wrote: So awesome!

Aashish Dube wrote: Feeling proud to be a part of this group!!

YEH DOSTI, HUM NAHI CHHODENGE

We shared a video of Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit Sarthak Kaushal wrote: Turnbull has no clue what Modi is talking, like he has no clue about people of Australia, lol!

Chandra Kishore wrote: Great dosti. Our PM values his friendship with Modiji.

Our story on the same-sex marriage result - and the negative reaction to it from some quarters - spurred a reader into penning down her thoughts.

Reeti Trivedi wrote: “All things queer are also part of nature.”

This has been on my mind ever since Australia’s survey/debate to allow same-sex marriage was on. I suddenly realised many people around me had a problem with the idea that all queer things are also part of nature. And the sad part was they thought it’s unnatural. They thought the whole concept is modern, Western or sexual.

While the thought was fresh in my mind, I came across the rather regressive and clearly unscientific views on homosexuality by some Indian spiritual and political leaders. Thankfully, these opinions were quickly countered - at least on Twitter, where the leaders faced quite a bit of criticism.

I also recently came across a piece of news about a woman in the US rejecting a gay photographer for her maternity photos because of the photographer’s sexual orientation. The woman texted the photographer saying that she did not want someone gay to take pictures. She added that she was against it and she did not want her five-year-old child to think that being gay is okay. She said she did not want her child to be influenced by people who think that such a lifestyle is ‘okay and acceptable.’ Hundreds of people wrote comments on the post, saying that just as the photographer chose to be homosexual, the woman reserved the right to pick a photographer she felt comfortable with. My point here is, do people understand that homosexuality is not a choice?

Before the marriage equality survey, I read on many forums and heard many people talk about what would happen if Australia did indeed legalise samesex marriage? Would it be then taught at schools? Would that then result in influencing children?

This fear stems purely from lack of awareness and knowledge about the issue.

It may be even pronounced in a large part of the Indian community since sex and sex education - is a taboo subject, not to be discussed with children.

To make it simple, nobody can teach your child or influence your child to be gay.

It is not a choice they can make. It is natural. On the contrary, people would be well served to start teaching their children - and themselves - acceptance.

I was happy when Australia finally came around to saying yes to marriage equality. And just when this took place, I finished reading the book Shikhandi

by Devdutt Pattanaik. My Indian friends would know that Shikhandi was the eldest daughter of Drupada and the elder sister of Draupadi.

Drupada wanted a son so bad that he raised his daughter as a son and called her Shikhandi. So much so that she was given a wife, only to be discovered by the bride on the wedding night that her husband was a woman. A yaksha called Sthuna came to Shikhandi’s rescue. He lent her his manhood for one night.

Shikhandi then performed his husbandly duties to the satisfaction of his new wife and returned the next day to give back the borrowed organ. Kubera, the king of yakshas, was so pleased with Shikhandi’s integrity that he allowed Shikhandi to use the yaksha’s manhood as long as he lived.

The book tells many stories such as Shikhandi’s. It talks of Mahadeva, who became a woman to deliver his devotee’s child; of Urvashi, who was born of no woman; of Arjuna, who was temporarily castrated for showing restraint; of Bhagirath, who was born of two women and so on. Some tales are touching, some playful and some disturbing - but these stories have been collected from far and wide.

Mesopotamian, Greek, Chinese, Japanese, Egyptian, Persian, Judaism, Biblical… all these cultures and civilisations have copious references to homosexuality and queerness. Homosexuals, transgenders, transsexuals, crossdressers, ‘hijras’ and eunuchs have all been part of our society since eons. They have been part of every possible culture, period, civilisation and mythology.

The book only helped me understand the subject better and validate my thoughts on the issue. Actually, the thought is very simple: Love is love. Long live love.

+ JOIN THE CONVERSATION KRISHNA, THE DIVINE PRANKSTER

APARNA ANANTHUNI wrote whether Lord Krishna’s ‘divine love play’ just a euphemism for eve-teasing?

Keedi Tohu wrote: This is an allegory of the love between the soul and God. As Saint Meera Bai once said, all devotees are female lovers of the Divine God.

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JANUARY 2018 5

COVER STORY

Year 12: Lesson The last year of school is the toughest,

SHIV GANDHI (SACE) Emmaus Christian College ATAR 90+ Subjects English, Psychology, Food and Hospitality, Aboriginal Studies and Research Project

W

ith your QCE/SACE now done and dusted, you’ve probably had opportunity to look back at it all with wisdom. What did you learn about yourself in the QCE/ SACE year?

Aarushi: I have realised that I am much more resilient than I thought I was because I was not only able to juggle the academic work load, but I also successfully made a mark for myself in the co-curricular field, being one of the four College Captains at my school.

Nandini: I learnt that educating myself is the most empowering thing I can do for myself. And also that procrastination is a habit I should learn to drop. “You can’t finish this in 2 days before the due date” is not a challenge so I’m hoping to rid myself of my incredible lack of motivation at the most crucial of times.

Ruturaj: One of the biggest things I discovered about myself was my ability to turn adversities into stepping stones for success. I was able to defy expectations, turn good results into amazing results and fulfil all my goals comprehensively, which allowed me to discover my inner resilience

6 JANUARY 2018

RUTURAJ VAIDYA (QCE) Whitsunday Anglican School, Mackay OP 99.75, OP 1 Subjects Maths B & C, Physics, Chemistry, French, English Awards Prize for Chemistry, Physics, French

and perseverance.

Karishma: I started my SACE year thinking that I would pass it without any issues. However, things didn’t go exactly as planned. I learnt that when things don’t turn out the way you expected, you have to embrace the change and pick yourself up which is what I learnt to do throughout my journey. This responsibility from the final year of my high school was overwhelming but I also learnt that along with striving for what I wanted to achieve, I have to accept a few rejections and even situations that may seem like failures as these are the ones that made me stronger. Another thing that I learnt about myself was that I am very capable of doing what I used to think I could never do. The assignments that I thought I could never finish or the due dates that I thought I could never surpass were highly possible with just some selfbelief and hard work.

Cicily: Looking back at Year 12, I learnt the importance of hard work. To get through the year, you had to be focused and prepared to put your best foot forward. I also learned to balance my time and prioritise my responsibilities as

AARUSHI CHADHA (QCE) Stretton State College OP OP 1 Subjects Chemistry, English, Maths B, Maths C, Philosophy, Physics Awards College DUX, Certificate of Academic Commendation

well as schoolwork. I also realised how important it was to have a good support system in order to stay motivated during the toughest times.

Shiv: I wasn’t a very academic person before Year 12, but I quickly ended up realising that no goals are unrealistic (within reason). Each goal I set for myself this year I ended up achieving. With hard work and determination, anyone can achieve what they desire.

What were your expectations going into the QCE/SACE year? How did reality compare?

Aarushi: I believed Year 12 would be no different than Year 11 in terms of the academic load, which turned out to be somewhat true. Year 12 wasn’t complex; it was just too congested. However, emotionally, it was quite the journey since every school event had a sentimental value attached to it - the last ‘first day of school’, the last sports carnival, the last school holidays, the last English class and so on.

Nandini: In the summer holidays before Year 12, I was anxious for it to start because everyone freaks out about it.

But it was like Year 11 except everything actually counts toward your OP. Ruturaj: I expected the final QCE year to be an extremely gruelling and tremendously stressful affair that would feel like an eternity. However, my parents were extremely supportive of me throughout the year and encouraged me at each step, so QCE felt a lot less stressful that I expected.

Karishma: Whilst transitioning into the major SACE year, I expected myself to have almost no problems with keeping up my grades. But when I really saw what was expected of me out of my subjects and their assessment requirements as well as the criteria, I did get lost and struggled with additional stress. It was hard for me to accept my grades at the very beginning and I started thinking that I wouldn’t be able achieve my ideal score. The reality, as harsh as it was at the time, was what I needed to get a hold of myself and not let emotions, expectations and requirements get ahead of me.

Cicily: My expectations where very similar to how reality turned out. Going into Year 12, I expected it to be a stressful

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s about myself and it makes you tough too, say finishers

KARISHMA SHAH (SACE)

Roma Mitchell College ATAR 95.85 Subjects Maths Methods, English Literary Studies, Chemistry, Physics and Research Project

and jam-packed year and it was just that.

There were many assessments to complete simultaneously in a short time frame.

However, with good time management skills, a good group of friends to lean on and the support of my family, I was able to tackle it and even enjoy my last year of schooling.

Shiv: I honestly expected the assignments to be a lot harder than what I got. It was just the heavy workload which was the hard part.

What extra-curricular activities or hobbies helped you maintain a balance between work and play?

Aarushi: I decided to learn Spanish to take my mind off the academic stress and work towards my personal development. Other than this, the role of the College Captain and the responsibilities that came with it also helped me channel my time into fruitful things.

Nandini: I don’t have many hobbies but I took up Carnatic singing about a year ago, so that gave me something to look forward to outside of schoolwork. And mehndi, mostly on paper but I practice on

NANDINI SHELKE (QCE)

Wavell State High School OP OP 4 Subjects Maths B & C, English, English Literature, Physics, Chemistry

my sister and myself.

Ruturaj: I volunteered for service clubs at school Interact, Social Justice Club and Zonta. I had a few leadership roles, too, as I was the Academic Captain at my school and the Director of Interact. I also played cricket socially and played the guitar.

All these activities helped me maintain a balance between work and play.

Karishma: Unfortunately, as the subjects I did required most of my time, I could not manage to do extra-curricular activities.

However, I did do justice to my hobbies when I had breaks or any free time. One of my hobbies included calligraphy and so I used to practice writing motivational quotes in different fonts to hang up around my room. Besides that, I used to dance and learn hip-hop to stay physically active and enjoy some music during my free time.

Cicily: Through my role as a college leader in Year 12, I had the opportunity to partake in many social justice initiatives including nursing home visits, soup kitchen and mentoring Year 8 students. We had a campaign named Project Love where we organised activities on promoting self-love,

CICILY MATTHEW (SACE) Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College ATAR 99.90 Subjects Chemistry, Biology, English Literature, General Maths, Info Processing and Publishing, Research Project Awards Subject Dux in Biology, Chemistry

appreciation for staff and appreciation for education. Being a part of these activities taught me how to manage my time efficiently and allowed me to step out of my comfort zone. Hobby-wise, I enjoyed spending time with my family and friends.

If I needed a stress-buster, I would watch a movie or listen to music.

Shiv: I found a passion for the gym and working out regularly during Year 12 as it helped me stay positive and happy, physically and mentally.

What would you have done differently, overall?

Aarushi: My assessment strategy could have been much better. Procrastinating really increases the stress manifold.

Nandini: I would’ve tried to manage my time better. I think I could’ve avoided a lot of turmoil if I’d just started studying or doing assignments a week or two earlier.

Ruturaj: Overall, I was happy with my results as I had given my 100%. If I had to do something differently, I probably would’ve volunteered for more clubs around my city as I love volunteering.

Karishma: If it was up to me to change

something overall, it would be to calm down at the several stages of SACE - such as during exams, tests or even filling up my university application. This is because I realised that these situations caused me anxiety, which led to me getting distracted during my study sessions and hence I couldn’t sleep, which is why I got several results that were lower than my expectations. Being too hard on myself for not achieving the best is something I wish I could have changed as that could have resulted into a positive mindset.

Cicily: I don’t think I would have done much differently because I tried my best and am happy with the results.

Shiv: I think I would’ve tried spending more time on myself and not just focusing on school and work. During the stressful exam period, it can be so easy to just worry about your work, tests and exams and not think of yourself as much, which is what I ended up doing quite a bit.

How did you feel at the end of your first assessment of the year? How did you feel at the end of your final QCE/SACE exam?

Aarushi: My last assessment piece was

JANUARY 2018 7

COVER STORY

I could’ve avoided a lot of turmoil if I’d just started studying or doing assignments a week or two earlier Nandini Shelke

a Physics exam and I remember how I felt when I finally put my pen down.

It was lunch time and unlike any other exam, I had no intention of discussing my answers with my friends. Twelve years of assessments had finally come to an end and I felt like celebrating. Simply put, I was ecstatic.

Nandini: I can’t actually remember what the first assessment was because I try to forget about assignments and exams once I hand them in, but I remember feeling a calm anxiety. ‘Calm’ because I made it through the first assessment and ‘anxiety’ because there were many more to go.

After my final assessment, I was ready for it to be over. My attitude towards exams and assessment is “what’s done is done.”

So once I finish the assessment, I put it out of my mind. After that exam I was just eager to graduate.

Ruturaj: I felt very confident at the end of my first assessment as I had put in my 100% in study that I had done that term, so I couldn’t have asked more from myself. I felt relieved that the QCE was finally over, but at the same time, I also felt sad that it would be the last time I’d see my friends and teachers at school. I felt extremely thankful to everyone who supported me throughout QCE, especially my parents whose endless love and support kept me going even during the toughest of the times.

Karishma: My first assessment, being a chemistry formative test, went totally opposite to what I had imagined. I received my first ever C grade and it was a complete shock because chemistry was one of my strengths. As much as I was devastated due to my initial overconfidence, I decided to get help by talking to my teachers and parents who

8 JANUARY 2018

Don’t ever shy away from asking for help academic or emotional Aarushi Chadha

helped me a lot. Fittingly, my final SACE exam was also chemistry, and it was the best exam I had given from all of my other four subjects - just made me realise that I had developed positively. This was the best feeling ever.

Cicily: After I received back my first assessment for Year 12, I was slightly disappointed with the result. However, this motivated me to work harder and I was determined to do better with the next one. At the end of my final SACE exam, I felt a sense of relief but I was also in disbelief that it was actually over!

Shiv: I felt quite happy in all honesty!

I found the work easy and was pretty peaceful with it. As soon as I walked out of my last exam, it felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of me.

Social media now plays a big part in the lives of many QCE/SACE students. Did you find Facebook groups such as the QCE/SACE Discussion Space helpful?

Aarushi: I found QCE Discussion Space as well as our school subject groups on Facebook very useful because they provide a platform where students can interact and help each other. These groups have also been great stressbusters, especially with the amazing QCS memes posted in the QCE Discussion Space.

Nandini: Ah yes, the QCE Discussion Space. It was more like a place where students would poke fun at the questions instead of feeling uncertain or anxious about how they did; a communal space for suffering, if you will. I feel like allowing the Year 12 cohort of 2017 to express their experiences through jokes and memes was really cathartic, in that it allowed a group that experienced

I was able to defy expectations and fulfil all my goals, which allowed me to discover my inner perseverance Ruturaj Vaidya

something together to not feel bad if they got something wrong because everyone else got it wrong. Of course, it’s a doubleedged sword, because someone can also feel ‘stupid’ if they see memes and jokes calling them stupid for a question they got wrong, despite most people getting it right. Ultimately, getting out of the exams and seeing the jokes kept me a little sane throughout the never-ending testing process. Reading a question and thinking “Wow, this is gonna be meme-d so much on the QCE Discussion Space” was better than being anxious over it.

Karishma: Totally! SACE Discussion Space and several other Facebook groups not only allowed me to gain a perspective of how students going through SACE felt but also helped me feel a little light-hearted when I read about the experiences similar to mine. I also had the benefit of knowing about several important notices and information about SACE events beforehand.

Ruturaj: Social media experiences can alter depending on the person using it.

For example, Facebook groups such as the QCE Discussion Space aided me to meet more people who were doing the same course as me and some helped answer my application queries. On the other hand, some of my acquaintances at school unfortunately got distracted due to the memes posted on the page on the day of the QCS test, an affair that ultimately affected their results.

Cicily: During the school year, I had stayed away from Facebook to avoid distractions but my peers and I had group chats for each class where we could ask questions, share notes, knowledge or relatable memes to tone down the tension before a test or exam.

Shiv: I did! It’s always comforting to know that you’re not the only one feeling a certain way. And to be part of a group with thousands of other SACE students was amusing, but also helpful.

What would your advice to future final year students be?

Aarushi: The final year of school is a short one and it feels even shorter when you are the one going through it. Never miss an opportunity to make great memories. Academically, I would be a hypocrite if I told you not to procrastinate, but seriously, try your best not to. Group study sessions can be very beneficial too if you are able to use your time wisely. Don’t ever shy away from asking for help - academic or emotional.

Best wishes!

Nandini: Try to manage your time well and don’t stress too much. High school is not the end. Yes, it makes the path toward your end goal shorter, but there are always other ways to get to your goal.

So don’t be discouraged if you don’t do as well as you expected. Also, unless you’re passionate about something specific, you probably won’t end up in the job you expect, so do your best, get qualified, then go where the wind takes you.

Karishma: The things that I learnt from my experience, which I would advise future final year students, would be to set themselves a work management schedule. As hard as the first step may seem, by identifying their weak subjects, they should be able to set a schedule that allows them to work harder towards devoting more time to those subjects. I also believe that communication is the key to success because by expressing any concerns or asking questions to the

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Identify your weak subjects and set a schedule that allows you to work harder towards devoting more time to them Karishma Shah

teachers and parents, you can help gain motivation to do better. After all, this journey of the final school year is as much as theirs as it is yours. Even getting tutors if required beforehand can change study habits or can help gain confidence.

Overall, take the most out of this journey as it would help you in your upcoming years of adulthood.

Ruturaj: Work hard, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and don’t just aim to reach goals, aim to defy expectations.

Cicily: Give it your best as Year 12 only happens once. Sometimes you’ll have to sacrifice things you enjoy but it will all be worth it in the end. Know how you work best, as there is no point spending hours reading through your notes if nothing is going into your head. I worked out that summarising and rewriting my notes into a new book, practising past tests and exam style questions and watching YouTube tutorials worked best for me.

It is also important to have a balance between work and life, so have something that you can de-stress with or to take your mind off of school. It is also important to eat healthy and get enough rest, as your health is key. Remember your family and friends are there for you, your teachers are there to help you and you are not going to be in this alone. But most importantly, remember to step back and enjoy the simple things that make up your last year of school!

Shiv: Before starting the year, find a hobby that you’re passionate about and continue with it throughout the year so you don’t just focus on school. Also, going to that one party or dinner won’t make you fail a test, so just go and enjoy your final year of high school.

Through all the stress remember to step back and enjoy the simple things that make up your last year of school!

Cicily Matthew

What moments from the past year do you remember most?

Aarushi: It is very hard to pick memorable moments because the entire year was so memorable. Regardless, what I’ll miss the most are the study sessions with my friends, inside jokes with teachers, class parties, organising assemblies… basically being at Stretton State College for five days a week, ten weeks a term, four terms a year!

Nandini: I don’t have one moment in particular, but tutorials on Wednesday afternoons were spent crying with laughter with my friends. I really appreciate them and I hope everyone finds people like that in their lives - people to laugh with and cry with. Having that support at school was what kept me happy despite the stress throughout the year.

Ruturaj: My most memorable moments from the past year were during my leadership initiatives, such as me setting events like peer-tutoring and debating forums at school.

Cicily: Looking back it felt like it was all just a blur, but the moments I remember most are aquatics and athletics carnival, Formal, Senior Retreat but most importantly having mini adventures and deep conversations with my friends to fill up our last year of recess and lunches together.

Shiv: I remember the overwhelming workload and I also remember the hours that were spent into planning for Formal.

I remember conversations with my teachers and I also remember my last day.

How did you celebrate the end of your exams?

Aarushi: I just had lunch with my friends… never had a proper celebration

Before starting the year, find a hobby that you’re passionate about and continue with it throughout the year Shiv Gandhi

because I had to prepare for my interviews with various med schools!

Nandini: I was actually in India for all of December, so getting to see my family is an amazing graduation gift. Also, I am in LOVE with Guzman Y Gomez so I went there with my family, and another time with friends and ate so many nachos.

Ruturaj: I drank a glass of water, fistpumped my friends and thanked my parents and teachers for aiding me throughout the year.

Karishma: I started my celebration by first spending all my time with my family and thanking each one of the members for motivating me and having the patience to deal with me. I then spent time with my friends as we went out to do fun activities, have picnics, sleepovers and finally went to visit the teachers at school to thank them dearly for all they had done for us.

Cicily: My last exam was Chemistry and my friends and I treated ourselves to a burrito bowl!

Shiv: I went to Hungry Jack’s and then took a nap.

Favourite quote from a teacher?

Aarushi: “It is your learning journey, so give a go!” - Mr Kumar (when we were too scared to solve Maths B questions ourselves) Nandini: A bit of background information: I had a teacher in Year 11 named Mr Goodwin. He promised our class ice cream (he even signed a contract) at the end of Year 12 but then he moved to China. Probably to get out of buying 20 people ice cream. I didn’t actually have my favourite quote, but a friend told me that he looked at a board of mathematical working and said “Isn’t it magical?” With a look of pure wonder on

his face, and since I am doing a math and finance degree, I want to try to find as much magic in mathematics as he did.

Ruturaj: Every time we asked a question to this teacher of ours (who will remain unnamed), he would reply coolly, “I don’t know, you tell me…”

Shiv: “If a guy treats you less than what you’re worth, drop him like a hot cake.”

Karishma: “Work hard in silence now only to let your success make the noise.”

Know any good QCE/SACE jokes?

Aarushi: Hop onto QCE Discussion Space for some good QCS jokes!

Nandini: Sure. The education system.

Ruturaj: QCAA leaking QCS results a few weeks earlier than they were planned gave us all a good laugh.

Karishma: Don’t worry! There’s always TAFE. What was your Jersey name?

Aarushi: CHADHA Nandini: I’m basic so I opted for my last name on the back. “SHELKE”.

Ruturaj: Darth Vaidya Cicily: Kaniyamparampil (My Family Name) Shiv: Gandhi Describe your QCE/SACE year in three (or four) words.

Aarushi: Wonderful, memorable, lifechanging Nandini: Possibilities, Academic, Interesting, Noteworthy Ruturaj: Rollercoaster, mostly with highs.

Cicily: Challenging, Transforming, Exciting Shiv: Lots of headaches.

Karishma: Exceptional milestone in one’s life.

JANUARY 2018 9

k n i L n a e i m d i t r n I spend ou ORIEs We

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Carl Carl Buhariwala Buhariwala

Grahak Grahak Cunningham Cunningham

Minnal Minnal Khona Khona

Preeti Preeti Jabbal Jabbal

Vivek Vivek Trivedi Trivedi

Emie Emie Roy Roy

Darshak Darshak Mehta Mehta

Rajni Rajni Anand Anand Luthra Luthra

Dipanjali Dipanjali Rao Rao

Nitika Nitika Sondhi Sondhi

Saroja Saroja Srinivasan Srinivasan

Tracey Tracey Lennon Lennon

Deeksha Deeksha Chopra Chopra

Chitra Chitra Sudarshan Sudarshan

Kalyani Kalyani Wakhare Wakhare

Usha Usha R R Arvind Arvind

Uttam Uttam Mukherjee Mukherjee

Sukrit Sukrit Sabhlok Sabhlok

Sanam Sanam Sharma Sharma

Raweena Raweena Raval Raval

Shafeen Shafeen Mushtaq Mushtaq

Kashif Kashif Harrison Harrison

Vishma Vishma Mistry Mistry

Kira Kira Spucys-Tahar Spucys-Tahar

Priyanka Priyanka Tater Tater

Anusha Menon Farzana Ahmad

Dhanya Dhanya Samuel Samuel

Dilip Dilip Jadeja Jadeja

Mohan Mohan Thite Thite

Anup Anup Kumar Kumar

Dinesh Dinesh Ramanan Ramanan

Amitt Amitt Dutt Dutt

Danielle Danielle Mathias Mathias

Vinaya Vinaya Rai Rai

George George Thakur Thakur

Priyadarshini Priyadarshini Chidambaranathan Chidambaranathan

Tim Tim Blight Blight

Sai Sai Narayan Narayan

Neelam Neelam Vasudevan Vasudevan

Deepa Deepa Gopinath Gopinath

Raka Raka Sarkhel Sarkhel

Gaurav Gaurav Masand Masand

Ashish Ashish Chawla Chawla

Komal Komal Utsav Utsav Jagad Jagad

Saloni Saloni Kober Kober

Purnima Purnima Ruanglertbutr Ruanglertbutr

Raka Raka Mitra Mitra

Shraddha Shraddha Arjun Arjun

Saroni Saroni Roy Roy

Ritam Mitra Royston Rebello

Sandip Sandip Hor Hor

Tanveer Tanveer Ahmed Ahmed

Tasneem Tasneem Zavery Zavery

Pawan Pawan Luthra Luthra

Frankie Frankie Fernandes Fernandes

Geeta Geeta Khurana Khurana

Petra Petra O’Neill O’Neill

Rani Rani Jhala Jhala

Avi Avi Chandiok Chandiok

Sydney Sydney Srinivas Srinivas

Leanne Leanne Woodward Woodward

Anubhuti Anubhuti Madan Madan

Ritam Ritam Mitra Mitra

Vish Vish Chilumkurti Chilumkurti

Jyoti Jyoti Shankar Shankar

Mohan Mohan Dhall Dhall

Astha Astha Singh Singh

Sagar Sagar Mehrotra Mehrotra

Niraj Niraj Pandya Pandya

Mital Mital Parekh Parekh

22 <> <> NOVEMBER NOVEMBER (2) (2) 2011 2011

10 JANUARY 2018

The team at Indian Link

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JANUARY 2018 11

Timeless love

Photos: Kulbir Cam Creative Art media

STAGE

What happens when former lovers reconnect after 35 years?

A Hindi play with a stellar cast delves deep

BY PREETI JABBAL

D

espite being a story full of emotional memories, whatifs and unfinished business, Rakesh Bedi’s play Mera Woh Matlab Nahi Tha provided its art-loving Australian audience a great sense of contentment.

The live theatrical two-hour play with its stellar cast comprising Anupam Kher and Neena Gupta managed to tick all the right boxes for quality entertainment.

The central pair masterfully covered the emotional territory of childhood sweethearts meeting after a gap of 35 years to clear some misunderstandings.

Delivering alternating accounts and flashbacks of their lives since they were separated, they walk us through their memories without slackening the pace of the narrative.

Neena Gupta as Hema Roy and Anupam Kher as Pritam Chopra visibly pour themselves into the execution of their roles. Along with Rakesh Bedi as Kapoor,

12 JANUARY 2018

the nosy but well-meaning neighbour, in a supporting role, the three actors deliver impactful performances.

Neena Gupta clearly outshines the other two equally versatile actors as she seamlessly shifts between enacting the role of the feisty Hema and the conservative Nigar (Pritam Chopra’s wife).

Anupam Kher offers an impeccably emotive performance as the man who loses the love of his life to be forced into marriage to someone else. Rakesh Bedi, who has written and directed the play, provides comic relief during the tense moments of conversation between the two childhood lovers.

As the plot proceeds to unravel the truth behind why the two lovers from Chandni Chowk were separated and their experiences with their respective spouses, the audience is kept engaged, curious and interested.

The set is simple yet effective in the form of a public park that provides the location for the former lovers’ rendezvous. Without resorting to any mush or sweet nothings and with little or no physical contact, the lead pair maintains the romantic intrigue.

A refreshing change from the melodrama of TV soaps and the glitz of Bollywood cinema, Mera Who Matlab Nahi

Tha is a play that leaves you caring about the characters.

Did they eventually split again or did they consider a future together, did they go their separate ways or were they on the brink of a new commitment? The end keeps you guessing.

Mera Who Matlab Nahi Tha talks about how circumstances can be misinterpreted by humans in relationships, it talks about

the bitter-sweet memories of young love and it talks about age being irrelevant when two people reconnect.

In parts clichéd, in parts unexpected, the story can get somewhat predictable but is pulled off by some brilliant acting.

During the curtain call, the delighted audience leapt to its feet to give the accomplished cast a standing ovation, and deservedly so.

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ACCOLADES Mitu (2nd from right) with the other winners

Woman of substance IFFM Director Mitu Bhowmick Lange becomes first Australian-Indian woman to win the prestigious Jill Robb Award

BY PREETI JABBAL

T

his holiday season, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Director of the Indian Film Festival Of Melbourne (IFFM), had much to celebrate as she became the first Australian-Indian woman to receive the prestigious Jill Robb Award.

Mitu took home the Screen Leadership Award for Outstanding Leadership, Achievement, and Service to the Victorian Screen Industry and for fostering cultural collaboration.

Jill Robb was the inaugural CEO of the Victorian Film Corporation (now Film Victoria) and a member of the Film Victoria Board from 1983-1989. As a producer and executive, Jill has been a role model for many screen practitioners, particularly women working in the screen sector.

Mitu is also the director Mind Blowing Films, a film production and distribution company that distributes Indian films throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Mind Blowing Films is three-time winner of the highest grossing foreign language

film award at the Australian International Movie Convention for the films Dhoom 3, PK and Dangal.

Mitu’s passion and commitment as a proponent of Indian cinema in Australia is visible in her impressive drive in leading IFFM to its current form.

Since its inception in 2010, IFFM has progressed in both scope and scale under her direction. It is an initiative of the Victorian Government that aims to strengthen ties between the Indian film industry and Victoria.

IFFM was the first Indian event to win the 2016 Melbourne Award in the category of Contribution to Multiculturalism by a Corporation.

IFFM aims to showcase the diversity, quality and vibrancy of cinema from India and the sub-continent. Every year, the Festival attracts a line-up of Indian film industry celebrities and stars. It also provides a platform for up-and-coming filmmakers, dancers and performers to showcase their work.

In December 2017, the International Film Business Awards (IFBA), supported by the Government of Telangana, honoured IFFM with the title of Most Popular Festival Abroad.

Most recently, the Jill Robb award added another impressive accolade to Mitu’s

profile. She was understandably elated to be recognised for the prestigious honour.

“The award is decided by Film Victoria and to be honest I had no idea how it came about,” said Mitu, flashing an infectious smile.

“I was happily travelling in Bombay when I got a call informing me about the honour. What made my heart burst with pride and joy was that I am the first Indian to win this - especially when the past winners have been legends like Sue Maslin, producer of Dress Maker, Oscarnominated Jill Bilcock and other women who I really respect and admire,” she said.

Mitu’s creative and commercially astute approach helped her in overcoming the many challenges that came her way. “My favourite song is Tagore’s Ekla Chalo Re, and that’s my mantra in life as well,” said Mitu.

According to her, the one characteristic that has always helped her is tenacity and moving forward no matter what.

“The biggest challenge is usually to ensure that we are able to live up to everyone’s expectations. As the festival is growing and getting such immense love and following, there is more pressure on all of us to keep doing better, and live up to the love,” she added.

Mitu’s recipe for putting together a successful show is to create a programme

that has something for everyone and is a balance between arthouse and pop culture with a lot of fun and informative and interactive events.

Not one to rest on laurels, Mitu claims she has many goals to achieve. “I want to make IFFM stronger and start a small film fund around the Festival. I also want the initiative of ‘Educate the Educators’ to become stronger and more widespread,” she said.

“Educate the Educators was launched by our ambassador Vidya Balan, as a platform to help equip educators with the mind and skill-set required to address the teaching needs of special needs children. We had a good outcome in Delhi with our pilot program and we want to build on that,” shared Mitu.

According to Mitu, Mind Blowing Films have now started releasing films in Fiji, along with Australia and NZ, so she needs to build on that and also get her dream film up and going.

Asked to provide a message for the women leaders out there who wish to break the glass ceiling and the bamboo ceiling, Mitu said, “Sky should be the only ceiling that can contain us. If we believe and push forward no matter what, the ceilings do stop existing. I truly believe in that and live that!”

JANUARY 2018 13

SPORT

Hard Kaur player Harmanpreet Kaur, the 28-year-old all-rounder of the Indian women’s cricket team and recipient of the 2017 Arjuna Award, speaks to Indian Link Radio about her second outing in the WBBL as a Sydney Thunder player

BY CHARUTA JOSHI

C

HARUTA JOSHI: How did your journey in cricket start off?

HARMANPREET KAUR: Dad used to play cricket and I used to enjoy playing with him as a child. Luckily for me, my parents did not stop me from pursuing this interest of mine. I kept getting opportunities and finally got the chance to represent the country.

CJ: Just like your dad, you played other sports as well. So what made you choose to pursue cricket at the professional level?

HK: Yes, Dad was into a lot of sports in his school days. There wasn’t much scope for cricket at that stage. Things are different now, so when my time came, my parents encouraged me a lot, and never stopped me from pursuing the game.

I have played other sports too at the school level, but I’ve always loved cricket the most. Besides, Indians are big supporters of this sport, and so far, there has been maximum name and fame in cricket, so it’s all worked out for me.

CJ: Who would you say is your cricketing hero?

HK: My dad is obviously my first hero. He is the one who taught me how to hold the bat correctly and tackle the oncoming ball.

At the professional level, my role model has been Virender Sehwag since the initial days. He has been a huge inspiration. It’s wonderful to hear the stories of his initial days of struggle. Now he is at another level, having represented India at the international platform for so many years.

I first met him five or six years ago. We were scheduled to leave for England, and

14 JANUARY 2018

he happened to be in the same city. I had been asking to meet him for a long time, so I couldn’t believe my luck when I got the opportunity. He actually took out time, and waited for me, and we got to spend half an hour together.

CJ: Tell us about your debut match against Pakistan in which you performed so well with the ball (4 overs, 10 runs).

HK: I hadn’t slept the night before because not only was it my debut, it was a match against Pakistan! Now it feels good to play against so many different teams.

CJ: You led the team as captain in the 2012 Asia Cup. Tell us about that match, again against Pakistan?

HK: I got the opportunity to lead as both our seniors, Mithali Raj and Jhulan Goswami, were injured. But that also meant that there was a lot of pressure on me. It was a good match for me, eventually. The team performed well together and it turned into a memorable win for us.

CJ: Talk us through the last over of that match, when India bowled out the Pakistan team still short of 18 runs for victory?

HK: I had reserved the last over for medium pacer Niranjana Nagarajan as the Pakistan team were tackling spin well. The plan worked, and we managed to dismiss the team with five balls still left of the last over.

CJ: How do you handle pressure?

HK: Earlier, it was a big deal. Now, it’s become routine, so much so that I enjoy it.

Playing against big teams on a daily basis, if one has to retain the team’s winning positon, you cannot afford to slip up on your schedule and discipline. Rather, the bigger the match, the greater should be your focus.

CJ: Tell us about your selection for the Women’s Big Bash League?

HK: It was in 2016 that the Board of

Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) allowed Indian players to participate in BBL and WBBL. Just the day after they granted the permission, I received the call with an offer to participate in the WBBL - I was thrilled! T20 cricket is one of my favourite formats of the game.

The first call I made to share the news, was to my father. He had been upset about the permission being denied up until then, so he too was very happy that I had got the opportunity straight up.

I had a good first year, and now I am back with a two-year contract, and really looking forward to it.

CJ: How did you get this opportunity?

HK: At the international level, it’s all about performing well. Luckily for me, I had been doing well against the Australian women’s team, and the selectors may have noticed that and followed my performance.

Thankfully, I had a good season last year, and I hope to continue that form into this year as well.

CJ: What do you think about the audience’s response to WBBL? HK: It’s fantastic! A huge number of people come to watch us play. The spectators enjoy the game, so they don’t care too much about whether it’s the men’s team or the women’s.

CJ: What do you think about the way cricket is played here?

HK: It’s aggressive and attacking on the field all the time, which is great because it gives me more energy and I enjoy this a lot more than having a defending approach to the game.

Here in the WBBL, you get a lot of privacy, freedom and the opportunity to just enjoy the game.

CJ: So what’s your team like?

HK: Besides Australian players, there are players from New Zealand and West Indies too in our team. Everyone is

friendly, and it feels good to have friends from across continents.

CJ: What changes have you seen in India regarding women’s cricket?

HK: Oh, there have been a lot of changes, especially after the World Cup last year.

We have got so much love and respect!

Cricket lovers actually watch out for our matches now, and enjoy our game, so it feels great. It also makes us want to perform better and keeps us fit and going.

Thankfully, a lot of sportswomen are doing well for India now, like in Badminton and Tennis, so these are good times. Earlier the adulation was just reserved for the men’s cricket team, so I wish for more power to Indian sportswomen.

CJ: What’s your message to youngsters looking to pursue their dreams, just like you?

HK: Whatever you do, do it from the heart, and enjoy it. The results are secondary. The idea should be to remain calm and focussed. Equally important, respect your elders.

CJ: And your message to parents?

HK: Support your children’s dreams, and give them freedom instead of pressurising them. It’s all about mutual trust.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL Favourite sport (other than cricket): Football Sportsperson you admire: Yuvraj Singh Favourite food: Mum’s cooking Favourite holiday spot: Maldives How you unwind: By watching films Last film you have seen: Firangi Favourite team member: Jhulan Goswami Most happy-go-lucky team member: Sushma Verma One person/thing you are missing while away from home: My mum, actually!

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A muddy party

Chitrakalavani Govindaraj

INDIA DIARY

The simple - and fun! - activity of seed balls is helping improve greenery in parts of India BY SHAMPA B BRUWELEIT

A

n amazing group activity has sprung up in parts of India recently, in which the enthusiastic participants get their hands really muddy, all for a good cause.

I witnessed this closely last year in an apartment complex called Cyprus-Oaks located in the bustling southern city of Coimbatore.

Indeed, the culinary actions so familiar to us, of mixing and rolling flour into balls to produce rotis or parathas, are now being duplicated in many urban and rural centres of India. Not in kitchens, but in backyards, fields and playgrounds, and in the compounds of housing colonies.

And the balls are formed, not with edible items, but natural elements taken from

18 JANUARY 2018

the world of farming and forestry.

The product, a seed ball, contains seeds of trees and foliage native to the area, formed from a mixture of clay, red soil and manure.

The moist seed balls are dried in the shade. Then they are strewn on forest peripheries, clearings, roadsides, and on waste or uninhabited lands, just before the rainy season sets in.

Rain moistens the seed ball, leading to germination of the seed within. The sprouting seed draws sustenance from the nutrients inside, which strengthen its overall growth and its chance of developing into a tree.

Seed balls help to increase the green cover on the land by generating seedlings, and keeping these protected in their tender primary plant life. Therefore, perhaps seed wombs would be a better name for them.

This technique of planting, actually a long-forgotten tradition in ancient Egypt, was rediscovered in the last century

by Japanese natural farmer Masanobu

Fukuoka. Natural farmers like him follow the practice of dispersing seeds on their fields with zero or little cultivation. The seed ball idea developed by Fukuoka rapidly caught the imagination of not only like-minded natural farmers, but of keen ecologists throughout the world.

In fact, many organisations took part in the Seed Ball Maha Abhiyana (Seed Ball mega mission) last year in parts of India.

Making seed balls does not involve much time and cost. Their subsequent dropping on land is a comparatively easy option for ecological recovery, especially when the dispersal is done on difficult, far-flung or mountainous terrains that cannot be easily ploughed.

If naked seeds are dropped on land, the chances are that they may be swept away by wind or water, or eaten up by birds or rodents. Encasing them in balls made of well-mixed soil and fertiliser is ideal for them to emerge as seedlings after the first rains.

There is surely an underlying social element that makes seed balls a prized

initiative for restoring the earth’s green.

The basic feelings of love and care that go into preparation of meals for family and friends are certainly also present in the making of seed balls.

And rolling balls from moist lumps of clay is sheer fun. Which child, or the child in an adult, can resist the delight of shaping clay balls on a pre-monsoon mild afternoon, enjoying the companionship of like-minded people?

In Coimbatore’s Cyprus-Oaks Apartments, this green engagement got underway in the monsoon season last year, with more than 800 seed balls rolled and then dispersed in the forest area of Siruvani.

Since then, the rains have come and gone, and a New Year has now set in. And somewhere in the forests near Coimbatore, sprouting from the seed wombs created by many loving hands, stand a good number of tiny neem and teak tree seedlings. New plant life on the lap of Mother Nature, spreading their tender roots on the forest floor, promising to grow into stately and strong trees. Beautiful!

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BOOKS

A satire-cum-thriller, inspired by politics A new novel by Manu Joseph spares no one - not even India’s PM with its biting humour, writes HIMANI KOTHARI Miss Laila, Armed and Dangerous by Manu Joseph. Fourth Estate, 2017

A

lanky woman, arms akimbo, wearing a tucked-in white shirt, divided skirt and red high heels is standing with her back to us.

There’s a mike in front of her and she’s addressing a nondescript crowd, waving flags - the Bhagwa Dhwaj (the saffron flag of Shivaji, adopted by the RSS) to be specific. But what catches the eye is her dress - specially her khaki shorts.

The cover of Manu Joseph’s Miss Laila, Armed and Dangerous is telling.

“Just the sight of Hindu patriots this way in the uniform of the Sangh reminds Muslims of death,” writes the novelistjournalist in his new book.

The woman in the Sangh outfit is Akhila Iyer, one of the protagonists in the book. And if the way she dresses is any hint, Miss Iyer is that rare breed that has both a sense of humour and strong political views. She is all that and much more.

In Miss Laila..., Joseph is having fun.

He is unapologetic and out to offend.

And he spares no one. If you’re a Rightwinger or a Left lib, Arundhati Roy fan or Modi bhakt, a feminist or an activist or a journalist, Anna Hazare follower or Irom Sharmila sympathiser - this book is NOT for you. Or maybe it is.

The novel opens as a political satire, with Miss Iyer - a neurosurgery student who has a love-hate relationship with Left liberals (in possible revenge at her mother who had abandoned her to carry out her ultra-Left activities) - playing pranks on everybody, and exposing their hypocrisy.

As far as the “patriots” go, Joseph also makes fun of them, though in a subtly indirect way, with characters like Damodarbhai - DaMo for short - and his minions, a certain Professor Vaid, and through “White Beard”.

There are two gripping narratives running parallel to each other. One involves Miss Iyer helping a man caught in the debris of a collapsed building survive by crawling to him through a tunnel and feeding him. Then he whispers to her something which has the intelligence agency racing against time to avert a terror attack.

The other concerns Miss Laila - of the title - whose character is loosely based on the 19-year-old Ishrat Jahan, an alleged terrorist killed in a “gunfight” with police while on the way to assassinate the then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, whom most of us will only recognise from that picture of four dead bodies strewn on a road besides a blue Tata Indica.

There have been many theories on the Ishrat Jahan case, some holding that she was an innocent girl who got mixed up with wrong people. Joseph seems to subscribe to this view in his fictionalised tale that is too close to the real thing.

Miss Laila... is not an investigative piece in that it doesn’t provide any new information. But it brings a fresh perspective to the story of a “hip” Ishrat Jahan from Mumbra - a sister to six siblings, their idol and bread winner.

Instead of letting the character of Laila speak for herself, the author lets her younger sister to be the narrator and that’s what humanises the story.

With his earlier works Serious Men and The Illicit Happiness of Other People, Joseph has already established himself as a

prolific writer in English. With Miss Laila... he has set a new benchmark for anyone looking to spin newspaper headlines to write an everyday politics-inspired thriller.

While anyone can write a political satire-cum-thriller, which is at once funny and dark, it is a writer like Joseph who can make you question and laugh at your beliefs. (Unless you are a bigot, in which case the only literature you should be reading is that recommended by Dina Nath Batra).

Joseph addresses many issues in this stylishly-written 210-page book. Capturing the themes of identity, selfishness and inefficiency, he talks about the life of extras in the film industry, poor disaster management in the country’s financial capital and journalists who swing facts to show the poor in worse condition than they actually are in. He does all this while maintaining the flow of the narrative and never losing the plot.

There is so much happening, the moment you finish reading the book feels like you just got off a roller coaster. And you want to take the ride again. Luckily for us, the book is being made into a movie.

JANUARY 2018 19

PHOTOGRAPHY

Whale of a time Tourist’s photograph of a breaching whale wins accolades

BY JYOTI SHANKAR

I

remember my first whale watching trip off the Gold Coast – lots of retching and vomiting from sea-sickness, interspersed with shaky attempts to capture the huge beautiful animals on camera. Most of the shots captured had just a tiny bit of the whale’s tail in the frame. So when I saw Nitin Jayanand’s photo of a humpback whale, I couldn’t help but go “Wow!” This picture of the breaching whale won the People’s Choice prize at the Nature Conservancy Australia’s 2017 photography competition. Around 4900

20 JANUARY 2018

entries were submitted in this year’s competition. The Nature Conservancy is the world’s largest conservation organisation working around the globe to address pressing conservation threats by working collaboratively with local communities, governments, indigenous groups and businesses.

Nitin Jayanand, from Canberra, a mechanical designer by profession, describes himself as an amateur photographer.

“I attribute my shot to sheer luck,” he told Indian Link modestly. “On a holiday in Tasmania with my family, we took a whale-watching cruise at Eaglehawk Neck on the south-eastern coast of the island. A humpback whale suddenly breached.”

Breaching is a spectacular whaling behaviour where this massive animal leaps out of the water. Why they do this is

not known for sure but marine scientists have speculated that this may be a way of communicating with other whales about food, predators or mating.

After breaching, the whale usually lands on its side or back. A huge amount of water is displaced in the process, creating a massive splash.

“The action is spectacular and in the case of this whale, it was just once and I captured the moment just on time,” he revealed. Though he attributes much of the credit for this magnificent photograph to his Olympus camera and luck, one can’t deny that there is a level of skill required to capture such moments. Cameras are a thing of the past for most travellers these days, most of whom prefer to quickly capture memories on their mobile phones and take selfies. Nitin prefers taking pictures using manual settings. You need

to know your camera well and enough about what goes into a good exposure to get great shots. His other pictures here are evidence of his skill, much as he makes light of his accolade. A man of few words, Nitin’s pictures speak for him.

Photographer Nitin Jayanand

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JANUARY 2018 21

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SEEKING BRIDES Seeking a suitable bride for an Australian citizen Sikh boy, 42 years old (looks younger), 5’ 8 ½” with wheatish complexion. Family settled in Australia. Innocent divorcee after 1-month marriage. The girl should be 34-38 years old with family and cultural values. Caste/religion no bar. Please email biodata with recent full length photograph to pleasecommunica8@gmail.com Match for very handsome 34-year-old Brahmin boy with 4-month annulled marriage. 6’ tall, very fair, MBA biz. Works as an analyst in Telecom Company.

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FOOD

Mango tango As mango season continues, we bring you three different ways to enjoy your favourite fruit

GRILLED KING PRAWNS WITH MANGO, YOUNG COCONUT > Makes: 4 serves > Prep time: 20 minutes > Cooking time: 2 minutes Ingredients

2 young coconuts 2 mangoes 200 ml (7 fl oz) coconut cream 1 long green chilli, seeded and finely chopped Juice of 4 limes 1 tablespoon fish sauce 6 spring onions (scallions), sliced 20 Crystal Bay Green King Prawns

Method

1. Peel and finely dice the mangoes and put in a large bowl. Add the coconut flesh, coconut cream, chilli,

lime juice, fish sauce and spring onions.

2. Preheat the barbecue hotplate to medium.

3. Cut the prawn in half lengthways and remove the intestine. Season with salt and pepper and cook for a couple of minutes until opaque and just cooked through. Serve drizzled with mango dressing.

Tip: Ask your grocer to cut open your young coconut or, if you have a cleaver at home, you can do it yourself. Using a spoon, scoop out the soft flesh from the inside and dice.

DUCK AND MANGO NOODLE SALAD > Makes: 4 serves > Prep time: 20 minutes > Cook time: 2 minutes Ingredients

2 duck breasts, trimmed 200g rice noodles ½ red capsicum, cut into strips 2 green onions, sliced ¼ cup coriander leaves ¼ cup mint leaves 2 teaspoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon lime juice 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce 1 mango, thinly sliced Lime wedges, to serve

Method

1.Peel and finely dice the mangoes and put in a large bowl. Add the coconut flesh, coconut cream, chilli, lime juice, fish sauce and spring onions.

2. Heat a nonstick frying pan over low heat. Add the duck breasts, increasing the heat as the duck cooks. Cook until duck skin is golden brown and middle is still slightly pink.

Remove from pan.

3. Soak the noodles in a bowl

of boiling water until soft then drain and run under cold water.

4. Transfer the noodles to a bowl and toss with capsicum, green onions and herbs.

5. Combine the fish sauce, lime juice, oil and sweet chili. Toss with the noodle mixture and fold through sliced mango.

6. Slice duck breasts and serve with mango noodle salad.

Serve with lime wedges.

Tip: It’s best to cook duck breasts starting them in a cool pan

MANGO CROISSANT PUDDINGS

> Makes: 4 serves > Prep time: 15 minutes > Cook time: 35 minutes

Recipes: Aussie Mangoes

Ingredients

3 croissants, torn into small pieces 1 mango, chopped 3 eggs, lightly beaten ½ cup caster sugar ½ cup cream 1 ½ cups milk 1 teaspoon vanilla essence Ice cream, to serve Mango curd, to serve (optional)

Method

1. Preheat oven to 170C. Lightly

grease four 1-cup capacity ovenproof ramekins or dishes.

2. Divide the torn croissants and chopped mango among the ramekins.

3. Whisk together the eggs, caster sugar, cream, milk and vanilla until fully combined and transfer mixture to a large jug.

Pour over the croissants and mango then place the ramekins in a baking dish.

4. Pour boiling water into the baking dish, coming half way up

the sides of the ramekins.

5. Transfer to the oven and bake for 35 minutes or until golden and set. If the puddings start to brown too quickly cover the baking dish with foil.

6. Allow the puddings to stand for 5 minutes then serve with ice cream and mango curd (optional).

6. Allow the puddings to stand for 5 minutes then serve with ice cream and mango curd (optional).

JANUARY 2018 25

entertainment

the BUZZ UP-TO-DATE NEWS ON WHAT’S HOT AND HAPPENING IN BOLLYWOOD

SALMAN KHAN

PADMAVATI TO RELEASE AS PADMAVAT ON 25 JAN

After months of uncertainty, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s controversial Hindi film Padmavati will release on January 25 as Padmavat with a U/A certificate. It will clash with Akshay Kumar’s Pad Man. “It will release as ‘Padmavat’ on January 25. The film has got U/A certificate,” sources said.

Padmavati - now Padmavat - was earlier slated for release on December 1 but the studio had voluntarily deferred it following a long-stretched controversy.

The movie, starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor, has been mired in a row after the Shree Rajput Karni Sena claimed it distorted historical facts related to the Rajput community.

The group has been persistent in its demand for a ban on the movie despite Bhansali’s clarification before a Parliamentary committee that the row over the movie was just based on rumours.

Last month, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) - in consultation with a special advisory panel -- decided it will grant U/A certificate to the movie but subject to five modifications, including title change.

The makers were asked to add disclaimers -- one of them regarding not glorifying the practice of Sati and also relevant modifications in the song Ghoomar to befit the character portrayed.

SALLU GETS DEATH THREAT

PAD MAN’S NOBLE WISH

N

ational Award-winning actor Akshay Kumar, who is addressing the issue of menstrual hygiene in his forthcoming film Pad Man, says women should get sanitary napkins for free of cost as it is a basic necessity for them.

Asked if the Toilet: Ek Prem Katha actor wants to reach out to the government to cut down on GST rate of sanitary napkins, Akshay said, “Why just cut down on GST? I think women should have free access to sanitary napkins. This is their basic necessity.

It is about menstrual hygiene and not luxury.”

“It is unfortunate and I am ashamed to say that 82 per cent women in this country have no access to sanitary pads and they are mistreated during those five days of their menstruation period. This is unfortunate,” he added.

Pad Man is a biopic on Arunachalam Muruganantham, the inventor of a low-cost sanitary pad making machine in India. The subject of Pad Man is considered a taboo or a sensitive issue. So what are the elements that

26 JANUARY 2018

he has kept in mind while promoting the film?

“First, do not call it a sensitive issue. It is a natural process of a human body. It is time to get rid of those taboos attached to it. It is time to treat the issue maturely. Also from the women’s end, they should not shy away from talking about the issue, and certainly should not whisper about it,” he said.

He feels that the way festivals like Holi and Diwali are celebrated, people should also “celebrate when a girl meets with her puberty.”

“When you celebrate it, the girl who is already going through a physical and hormonal transition, will feel confident and secure. But we excluded our women from the normalcy of life during those five days. So from the first experience, women feel that period is something they should hide. So you know where we should start from,” he added.

Produced by Akshay’s wife Twinkle Khanna and directed by R. Balki, Pad Man is slated to release on January 26.

His fans fondly call him ‘bhai,’ but Salman Khan has received a death threat from a real-life bhai (gangster).

Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi of Rajasthan issued a death threat to Salman Khan, saying the Bollywood actor will be killed in Jodhpur.

“Salman Khan will be killed here, in Jodhpur... Then he will come to know about our real identity,” Bishnoi told media persons while being taken to a Jodhpur court in police security.

Bishnoi was being produced in the court following his arrest on charges of terrorising traders and extorting money from them.

The gangster claimed that he had been framed in false cases and that to date, not even a single witness had deposed in the court to prove the charges.

“Now, if police want me to do some major crime, I shall kill Salman Khan and that too in Jodhpur,” he added.

Bishnoi’s death threat to Salman is being linked with the black buck killing case of 1998, in which Salman and his co-actors are accused. It was the Bishnoi community which had brought up the black buck hunting case, and ever since the community considers the Bollywood actor a “villain”.

However, some onlookers felt that the gangster talked of killing Salman just to create a sensation.

RAJPUT OUTFIT FIRM ON PADMAVATI BAN DEMAND

Despite a series of modifications being made in the controversial film Padmavati including its renaming as Padmavat, Rajput outfit Karni Sena has again raised a demand for a complete ban on film.

Speaking to media, Karni Sena observer Lokendra singh Kalvi said that filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali should forget dreaming about the film’s release.

“All efforts of Bhansali and CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) shall go down the drain as we will never allow the screening of Padmavati anywhere in India or abroad.

“We are still adamant on our demand.

Let there be a complete ban on the release of Padmavati,” he added.

Kalvi also demanded a complete ban on the Ghoomar song. “We don’t want any changes in the said song - we demand a complete ban on it,” he said.

He also questioned the ‘authenticity’ of the panel formed by the CBFC to review the film.

Not all of them were historians, hence, their suggestions hardly make a difference, he said, adding that the CBFC proposed to bring in nine historians in the panel but ended calling only three historians “which speaks volumes on their seriousness to justify our demands”.

IN FILM INDUSTRY FOR MARATHON, NOT RAT RACE: RAJKUMMAR RAO

He debuted in the Hindi film industry with Love Sex Aur Dhokha and went on to grab the limelight by delivering powerful performances. Geared up to enthrall cinema lovers with more thought-provoking projects, Rajkummar Rao says he is here for a marathon and not a rat race.

From performing on the stage at Shri Ram Centre in Delhi to picking up the nuances of acting at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, the 33-year-old actor started in the industry with no godfather. In a span of eight years, he has cemented his space with his work in films like Kai Po Che!, Shahid, Aligarh, CityLights, Bareilly Ki Barfi and Newton.

Rajkummar believes the times are

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changing for outsiders seeking a break in Bollywood.

“Being an outsider, I know it is not easy for an outsider to (get a break) in the industry; but I think times are changing. Writers in this generation are coming with some wonderful stories.

Our directors too are experimenting with their storytelling and that is the reason why actors like me and so many of us are getting great characters to portray on screen,” Rajkummar said.

“I just hope this journey continues and I keep challenging myself. I just want to push the envelope with every film. I really do not want to find any comfort zone. It is just a very humble beginning.

I have just started and it feels like Love Sex Aur Dhoka is just released... It has been seven years and there is a long way to go. I am here for a marathon actually, not a rat race,” added the actor.

He says there was never a Plan B for him.

“This is the only thing I have always thought of doing since my school days. I always wanted to be a film actor. I always chased that dream and I started by doing theatre in Delhi. Then I went to FTII from where I landed in Mumbai in 2008,” said Rajkummar, who says FTII gave him the confidence to face the camera.

“Somewhere, I feel that people take FTII actors seriously because we commit two to three years of our lives to learn acting,” he said.

The struggle began when the

Gurugram boy landed in Mumbai.

“For me, the first two years in Mumbai were a bit tough. As Mumbai is an expensive city, it was not easy for me to cope up with a lot of expenses here. But my family really supported me.”

Rajkummar’s popularity has also not affected his attitude. Besides his performances, people often compliment him for his humility.

Brushing that off, he said: “I just be myself as I am doing this (acting) for myself. I wanted to work all my life in films, not because I wanted to prove a point to anyone. I genuinely fell in love with acting. When there is true love, there is no other feeling. I think this is what I breathe for every day, to act in front of the camera.”

Rajkummar’s Love Sonia, 5 Weddings, Omerta and Shimla Mirchi are slated to release this year.

TV STRONGER MEDIUM THAN FILMS: KARAN JOHAR

Filmmaker Karan Johar says that there should not be a divide between the small and the big screen as television is a stronger medium than cinema.

Karan has been a part of the small screen with shows like Jhalak Dikhla Jaa and India’s Got Talent and will be now be seen co-judging a reality show titled India’s Next Superstars.

The filmmaker, 45, says the digital platform and television has become huge.

WHO WORE IT BETTER? JENNIFER HUDSON or DEEPIKA PADUKONE in SELF PORTRAIT Share your views with us on our Facebook page /IndianLinkAustralia

“Today it reached out to at least nine times the audience... If three million people watch cinema and 27 million people watch television. So what is a bigger platform? Today digital and television is going to be huge. I respect those who earn name and money from television,” he added.

SANJAY DUTT’S BIOPIC TO RELEASE ON JUNE 29

For those awaiting to see how Ranbir Kapoor brings alive the story of Sanjay Dutt on the big screen, the wait has become a little longer. The biopic on the Khalnayak star will now release on June 29 instead of March 30.

Apart from Ranbir, who even put on weight to fit Sanjay’s shoes for the biopic, the film stars Sonam Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Dia Mirza, Paresh Rawal, Manisha Koirala, Karishma Tanna, Vicky Kaushal and Jim Sarbh.

Presented by Fox Star, the untitled Dutt biopic is co-produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Rajkumar Hirani.

Meanwhile, actress-producer Dia Mirza, who will be seen playing the role of Sanjay’s wife Manyata in the biopic, says she is excited to work on the project.

“I’m very very excited about the Dutt biopic and my work in it. I don’t want to put too much pressure on myself by thinking about the fact that it might take my career as an actor in a new direction,” Dia said.

After winning the Miss Asia Pacific 2000 title, Dia made her Bollywood debut in 2001 with the film Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein.

Despite having a successful debut, she could not sustain the golden run in the Hindi film industry. She featured in Bollywood films like Deewaanapan, Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, Dum and Kurbaan that bombed at the box office.

Apart from acting, Dia has stepped into the filmmaking business. She coowns a production house, Born Free Entertainment, with her husband Sahil Sangha. Her last production venture was Bobby Jasoos in 2014.

The actress hopes to evolve as an actor and a producer with each project.

“As an actor and a producer, I hope I can continue to evolve, grow and contribute. That’s what my primary focus is... to just keep making better choices, keep learning and growing,” she said.

What’s the chitchat here between SAIF ALI KHAN and his son TAIMUR? Send your response to: media@indianlink.com.au TO WIN A MOVIE TICKET!!

LAST ISSUE CAPTION CONTEST WINNING ENTRY

What’s the chitchat here between ANUSHKA SHARMA and VIRAT KOHLI? Vishal Degaonkar Anushka: I wish you a long innings Virat: I wish you a blockbuster Congrats, Vishal!

You win a movie ticket!

Another good one by Kanchan Katoch Virat: Get ready Anushka, we are gonna play a long innings.

JANUARY 2018 27

BACKCHAT

Year of bluffs, or year of blasts?

How our leaders are hoping to influence the world in 2018

BY LP AYER

F

or most of us, New Year resolutions are like fireworks on the last night of the year - they fizzle out after a brief sparkling moment.

But the resolutions of some movers and shakers at the world stage have real fire power, impacting millions of people. So it is only natural to get curious about what some of those VIPs (very irritable persons) have jotted down to jolt the world.

Let’s take a peek at what some of our leaders were thinking as they began their new year.

Starting from the East where the New Year dawns first, our first man to watch is who else but the stubby chap who strikes terror in every terrestrial creature - Kim Jong-un.

His cryptic Korean notes read, “I need to keep my finger on that button on my desk to keep that White House dotard seething with white fury. Our bulky missiles paraded along Pyongyang public square, I hope no one will find out, are mere tin cones packed inside with my dissidents to be blasted off. UN sanctions, ha! They are as powerful as hen’s teeth.

My bosom buddies in Beijing will always back me - I am doing all this rattling at their bidding, to pack up the Yankees from this part of the world.”

Flying at a missile speed, the next stop is at the big man’s Oval Office where Trump is busy tweeting his messages.

“Mine is bigger than that Little Rocket man’s. I mean the Red Button. After all, size does matter… and when I press my button, DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) will instantly become DARK (destroyed, annihilated, razed and

knackered). Each time this Pyongyang pigmy fires a missile, I ratchet my tweet to fire and fury but that doesn’t seem to rattle him. Have tightened sanctions, yet he manages to get his supplies of oil. It seems there are too many merchants of snake oil out there. In the New Year, I resolve to fight him with my tweets - a tweet a day should keep his missiles away.”

(Meanwhile, on every American’s wishlist this year: “We want Trump to change from a man of tweets to a man of deeds.”)

At the Forbidden City, Xi Jinping’s scroll reads, “Each time Kim tests a missile, the Americans come knocking on my door to do more to restrain him.

This is what boosts China’s stature as the next superpower. Told our UN delegates

ow!

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to raise their hands for all the sanctions against North Korea but not lift their little finger to act on them on the ground or on water. It is just a coincidence - or Chinese whispers - that our oil tankers berth next to North Korean ones in Hong Kong or Shanghai. If the West expects me to pull the plug on Kim, they don’t know he is playing my game to perfection to drive them off the Pacific Rim… China can then rule the waves.”

In India, Narendra Modi has a few things to worry about. “Must be wary of China’s One Belt One Road roadshow. It is just a ruse to tighten their belt around our neck (as the PLA is already trying this at the ‘chicken neck’ near Doklam) and drag us along the road to Beijing’s eco-

nomic domination. Hope I can convince all the South East Asian leaders I have invited to our Republic Day function. Must also be wary of close links with Canberra as part of the mooted quadrilateral alliance to contain China since Beijing has bought out all leading Aussie politicians on both sides.”

It is domestic issues that are foremost on Prince Phillip’s mind. “Aah, a royal wedding soon. That is the only thing that may be going for England’s economy, with Brexit looming… Beatrice and Eugene may be peeved about commoners getting into the royal fold, but hey, I didn’t have a right royal time myself in my early days. My only concern is that if Kate and Meghan ever get into a tiff, we may end up becoming a royal TV soap opera…”

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FORETELL

PREDICTIONS FOR JANUARY 2018

BY MINNAL KHONA

TAROT

ARIES March 21 - April 19

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

CANCER June 21 - July 20

For energetic Arians, the focus this month is on travel, new opportunities and long distance communication. If you are in a romantic relationship, it is a positive time. If single, the start of a significant love affair will come as a pleasant surprise. You might want to do more with your life or move home and live closer to the water. A sudden boost or progress in your career also brings an end to delays and improvement in your financial affairs.

For practical and sincere Taureans, a fresh start could have anxious moments. You are looking for personal gratification on the career front and work that is more meaningful. A new love affair could sweep you off your feet. Travel plans could change due to an urgent work-related matter. Stay calm and don’t let strong emotions rock the boat - whether in a marriage or a business partnership. Minor frustrations are temporary and you will take active steps to improve your health.

The influence of an Aquarian in your life makes you interested in humanitarian matters; you will want to engage in social work and help those less fortunate than yourself. A different job offer or business opportunity comes your way. A holiday or planned trip will be a happy one. New information you receive related to work will make things more positive all around. Success in financial matters is predicted and things will work out better than you think.

Those in creative professions will receive money for their efforts. Other Cancerians stuck in mundane jobs might look for fulfilment through art, writing or other creative pursuits. A financially rewarding business trip is in the offing. You will have a breakthrough in the form of inspiring ideas that will enhance your productivity. If in a romantic relationship, you might seek more permanence, but be patient.

Several promising options are in the offing for those looking for work or a change of job.

LEO July 21 - Aug 22

VIRGO Aug 23 - Sep 22

LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21

You are in a sensitive and emotional frame of mind, so go slow if in a romantic relationship. People around you make you re-examine your objectives and what it is that you really seek out of life. Cash flow is not an issue but avoid over-spending.

A long-term niggling problem that is work related will get resolved. Taking decisive action on a matter will lead to success so don’t waver once you have made up your mind. Don’t take on more work than you can handle.

Virgos have a practical approach to most things in life and this holds them in good stead. But, if you have to take a decision, be firm. A friend may play matchmaker for single Virgos, or even help with business affairs. Feeling good about yourself this month keeps you on top of everything, even in a stagnant relationship. Your emotions might swing high and low. Take care of your health as you could have stomach and back ache-related problems.

You are in a reflective frame of mind where you want to find your life’s purpose. Let the higher power handle your problems. An unexpected financial opportunity comes your way. Avoid feelings of martyrdom in a relationship.

New beginnings are indicated but you have to be prepared to let go of the past and break destructive patterns.

Spiritual growth too is predicted and unsettled issues get resolved. Listen carefully to the universe; it is trying to tell you something.

Your intense and secretive nature might cause health issues that are entirely stress-related. So stay calm and balanced and if there are internal conflicts going on in your head, they will end. A positive change is in store and you will find a solution to an ongoing problem. If you are feeling stuck in a relationship, you might have a change of heart and decide to end things. A social event could be the buffer that provides clarity.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18

PISCES Feb 19 - March 20

If you are with a significant other and feelings run deep on both sides, you might still not want to make a commitment till the creases are ironed out. A short trip is fruitful. Aspire for bigger things at work to ensure success. Financial problems will end.

With work mates or your spouse, communicate your needs clearly and let the matter go if you want to resolve any conflict. Beware, a glamorous offer is not as good as it looks.

You are influenced by someone with the temperament of a Libran so you might indulge in some self-analysis for clarity. Stay detached in a troublesome situation but be upfront and candid.

New friendships are in the offing and letting go of the past or a painful relationship is round the corner. Be careful while driving and do not dither while taking a decision. The heart takes a backseat while making up your mind.

A fresh start is indicated for some.

A reunion with friends or loved ones is possible this month. New partnerships, business ventures challenge the freedom loving Aquarians; and a change of habit is predicted. A situation or the occurrence of an event makes you rethink a romantic relationship; use your judgement before making a decision about it. Improvement in work conditions, a short trip, a new admirer, and resolution of inner and outer conflicts will keep you occupied. You will seek purpose in what you do.

You will focus on wanting to move home or do something unusual. There are no fireworks happening in your current relationship. You might even have to make sacrifices if you want to keep it going. If you are just getting over an affair, you will want to move on from it.

Things will change for the better. Money could be tight this month and watch out for eye infections. Your skills will be called upon for business expansion at work.

JANUARY 2018 29

Anup

Neelam

Raghu

Manoj

Kashif

Sagar

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Pawan

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