2019-01 Sydney (2)

Cyrus Meher-Homji, OAM Peeyush Gupta,

Sujon Kumar Purkayastha, OAM

Jaswinder Singh Samra, OAM

Gladys Berejiklian Premier of NSW

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The Lucky Country needs to move forward

BY PAWAN LUTHRA

The title of a 1964 book by Donald Horne, The Lucky Country, has been used by many to describe Australia - its ongoing economic progress, the prosperity of its citizens, the social structure of its society.

Yet, the author disagreed with this depiction and himself clarified what he meant: “Australia was a lucky country run by second rate people who share its luck. I didn't mean that it had a lot of material resources… I had in mind the idea of Australia as a [British] derived society whose prosperity in the great age of manufacturing came from the luck of its historical origins… In the lucky style we have never 'earned' our democracy. We simply went along with some British habits.”

Even way back in 1964, there were those lamenting that Australia was failing to emerge as an independent nation, free of its ties to the British, so that it could take its place in the world.

When the Federation of Australia was proclaimed on 1 Jan 1901 at Centennial

Park, Australia declared itself as a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy with Queen Victoria at its apex as the Queen of Australia.

One hundred and nineteen years later, the world is a different place. Nationhood is an ongoing factor when talking about a national identity, not having an Australian Head of State does hamper the concept of a national identity. Do note it is always a lively debate about whether it is the Governor General, who holds the highest rank amongst the officers of the government, who is head of state, or is it Queen Elizabeth II.

It should be noted that internationally, for the purposes of protocol, the United Nations’ list of heads of state cites for Australia, "(Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II)" in brackets, above the name and title of the Governor-General, "His Excellency Sir Peter Cosgrove".

As we reflect on what it means to be Australian on Australia Day 2019, the debate will rise again on whether it is time we became a republic and had our own true blue Head of State, an individual who will rise above party politics and take decisions with integrity and honour.

Looking at our current Governor General Peter Cosgrove and incoming Governor General David Hurley, there is little doubt that these are men of honour.

But some 30 years ago, the 1999 referendum for an Australian Republic was defeated when 55% of voters rejected the proposal to become a republic (with a president appointed by a two-thirds vote in both Houses of the Australian Parliament.)

The issue, it seems, is what form the new model should take. Should the public have a say in the election/selection, or should it be left to an electoral college made up of parliamentarians, like in India?

The Indian model has worked effectively. When the Constitution of India came into force on 26 January 1950, the offices of the Monarch and Governor-General were replaced by the new office of President of India. The President is beholden to the Constitution: his/her prime role is to defend and protect the Constitution of India and its rule of law. The President, unlike the Australian Governor General, needs to apply his/her own final judgement in upholding the Constitution and ensuring constitutionality in the actions of the executive or the legislature.

Over the last 72 odd years, India has emerged as a nation in its own right and with its own identity.

Coming back to Australia, perhaps a deeper look at this age-old debate is called for, especially in the light of the shifting geopolitical scenario globally.

THE KING AND I

RITAM MITRA got up close and personal with the one and only Virat Kohli

Adrian Phoon wrote: He's lucky to have met you, Ritam!

Hussain Hanif wrote: Love your work, Ritam Mitra.

Virosh Poologasundram wrote: Great read. Looks like you got some good insight into Virat.

Maryanne Mukkattu wrote: That’s so awesome! Great work.

Sam Kronja wrote: The article gushed, but didn’t make it clear why “Unequivocally, Kohli is the best thing to happen to cricket - at least to its longest form - in a generation”.

Dimpy Singh Kanwar wrote: Good on ya, Ritam

Brett Penprase wrote: I met the man in the UK when I was touring. He is very humble, gracious and knowledgeable. The type of person you would like to catch up on any day of the week for a good old chat.

Sudipta Ghosh wrote: Beautifully written, Ritam Mitra!

FARZANA AHMAD wrote about The Pink Sari Inc’s campaign at Sydney’s Pink Test.

Sari Sisters wrote: How amazing is this initiative? We're in awe of the amazing work the team at Pink Sari are doing to promote women's health in the South Asian Australian community. Check out the stunning visuals from their recent fundraiser with Sydney’s Pink Test as published in Indian Link.

Shantha Viswanathan wrote: On behalf of Pink Sari Inc., I would like to convey our sincere appreciation to Indian Link for the brilliant coverage of our participation at the Pink Test 2019. Pink Sari's message is universal and the event gave us a great opportunity to promote our key messages relating to early detection and Breast Screening not just to our local viewers but international viewers as well. Thanks for introducing us to McGrath Foundation. It was a great partnership with mutually satisfying outcomes. Thanks also to Farzana for a great article and for also communicating our message so articulately to the readers. Thanks to you and to Indian Link for having supported us right from when this initiative commenced.

WHERE IN INDIA

We shared a picture of this landmark in India, and Sue Hambly and Himanshu Sharma guessed the right answer: Auroville.

TICKET TO CRICKET

YOUR SAY SAY IT AGAIN

RAVINDER SINGH JABBAL wrote about his experience as a photographer on the field at MCG.

Ekta Sharma wrote: Such an amazing read!

Nirav Solanki wrote: Big cheers to your photographer Ravinder Jabbal. Glad we could feature in your portfolio. Thanks!

Sunit Grover wrote: Totally love this! He looks so good!

One of the great joys of visiting Australia is to mingle with the Maharashtrian community here and see how they are always there, for each other. Sure it is true of others too and tells me why communities are so critical. Harsha Bhogle, cricket commentator

Australian Open juniors 1989 was the first Grand Slam I ever played. 30 years later, still excited as ever to play at Melbourne Park. It’s the first place I believed I could become a professional tennis player! Always live your dream.

Leander Paes

THINK PINK

VIRAT’S

GESTURE

Deepti Ashish Sharma wrote: That’s awesome... congratulations Atharv and Nautiyal family

Sachin Nad wrote: Kholi steal hearts with gestures like this!

Anuj Nautiyal wrote: It was a big day for my son Atharv. Thanks Rajni. Kudos also to RJ Ekta. She made Atharv comfortable and calm on radio. The best part of the interview was when Atharv said to Ekta "I'll give you the batting pad when I become the best player in the world like Virat Kohli."

Prekshi Sundriyal Joshi wrote: Congratulations dear Atharv and proud parents

Vaibhav Srivastava wrote: Gift for a life time!

Vipul Nautiyal wrote: Virat Kohli knows the power of the Nautiyals!

Payel Bose wrote: Wow!! Congrats little champ; the smile says it all.

Hemant Dobriyal wrote: It was your talent Athrav Nautiyal which attracted Virat Kohli towards you! Well done, kid. May this inspire you more to become a cricket legend like him.

Swati Loshali Khanduri wrote: A cute gesture by Kohli towards his youngest fans. Congrats Atharv on being in the news and on TV.

WHO WORE IT BETTER?

Ekta Sharma wrote: Alia carries it beautifully… very elegant.

Sandhi Singh Narania wrote: Each has their own personality; I don’t see the point in such comparisons.

Samantha Gray wrote: The flowing fabric on Sophia makes her look better.

The states of Maharashtra, Gujarat and NSW share challenges across key sectors so by collaborating through ingenuity, innovation and technology we have become very promising partners.

David Hurley, Governor of NSW and Governor designate of Australia, upon his return from an India tour recently

CAPTION CONTEST

Raj Saneja wrote: Anushka to Virat: “How can you watch horror movies at bedtime. They freak me out.”

Leyla Singh wrote: “I don’t want anyone to see my braces.”

Nisha Trehan wrote: “Don't promote Zero, Virat. I won't mind.”

Monica Gupta wrote: “Hai, mein sharm se laal ho gayee tere zero score per.”

Natasha Saluja wrote: Watching Koffee with Karan...!

Shayoka Shah wrote: “Your beard tickles.”

Mahesh Berwal wrote: “Are, lipstick to lagaane dete!”

Gulab Jamun wrote: “Koffee pine mat jana!”

Dhaval Patel wrote: “We are the cutest couple in the cricketing world.”

Nitin O. Verma wrote: “Hey maine Sydney aa kar phir tumeh Zero pe out karva diya. I have your complete control - ha ha ha!”

Pearl Chaudhary wrote: “We are the best team in the world.”

Amisha Marwah wrote: Manmarziyaan.

Ricky Bajoria wrote: “Apple, hehe? Tum toh Oppo promote karte ho.”

Krishna Rao wrote: “Loved the way you convinced Karan to interview Hardik instead of you... nobody will ever suspect.”

Rajesh Polisetty wrote: “Virat, lipstick tho lagane do.”

Mahesh Rohira wrote: "Adelaide one-day match ka team selection main karungi."

We asked: Was it fair to kick Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul off the Indian team for their comments on Koffee With Karan?

Not fair: 23% Totally fair: 77%

The budget for hosting this year's festival is 28bn rupees ($397m; £311m), and over 49 days, visitors totalling more than the combined populations of Britain and Spain are expected to visit.

BBC News, about the Kumbh Mela

BIG

RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA reported on six-year-old Atharv Nautiyal’s surprise gift at the SCG

INDIAN LINK POLL

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS

STRUGGLE, SUCCESS AND SUCCESSION

Sydney’s PEEYUSH GUPTA, AM

For significant service to business, and to the community, through governance and philanthropic roles

The first things that strike you about Peeyush Gupta are his youthful looks and humility. A few minutes into the conversation, it becomes clear that he is also an excellent listener, his ability to ask strategic questions showing a very intelligent and curious mind at work.

These among other qualities led Peeyush, along with four other partners, to build a well-respected financial advisory and research firm IPAC, and subsequently sell it to AXA for an estimated $200 million.

Along the way, Gupta won industry awards, and served the community in his role as director or trustee of a number of professional, educational and philanthropic institutions, ranging from NAB, LINK, MLC, AMP, SBS, icare, Murdoch Books, Western Sydney University, UNSW Business School and Ascham School.

Here, this extraordinary Indian-Australian tells us about his eventful journey.

Coming to Australia

Dad was in the Indian Foreign Service, so our family lived around the world, moving every three years. We arrived in Canberra on Dec 13, 1975. I completed Years 11 and 12, and was one year through my first university degree when Dad was posted again. I stayed on to finish my degree, and then obtained PR. My brother also came back a few years later to do his uni studies. Dad and Mum returned to Australia to live permanently some 20 years later after Dad had retired.

Due to the nature of Dad’s job, I went to six schools (in London, Kathmandu, Belgrade, Jaipur, Delhi and Canberra) before I graduated from high school. I wanted to be a doctor initially, and got into Medicine at Sydney University, but could not afford to move from Canberra to Sydney as an overseas student (Canberra did not have a medical degree in those days). So I did a degree in Computing Studies instead initially. After one year of work, I went on to do an MBA in finance at UNSW. Later in life, I did senior executive programs at Harvard and London Business Schools.

Where it all started

For some reason, I thought no one would give me a job, so thought I’d have to

start my own firm, which I did with some partners whilst I was doing my MBA. We called the firm IPAC - Investment Planning and Advisory Company. Two of my partners were Sri Lankan by heritage, although one had lived most his life in Australia, the other a lot of his in England.

Our biggest impediment initially was not so much our ethnicity as our youth: the four partners were all in their mid-20s at the time, and inexperienced. However, the quality of our research attracted large corporate clients (eg. the banks and life insurance firms), and we quickly gained a reputation for being thought leaders in the emerging wealth management industry. The credibility of having some of Australia’s largest financial firms as clients of our research, in turn, gave us credibility with other clients, which helped build the business.

Success was not overnight, it took a patient 20 years to build the firm! By luck rather than design, the partners had complementary skills (sales, marketing, operations), similar values, and mutual respect, so the partnership prospered over time.

We sold the business when I was in my early 40s, so I did not need to work for money thereafter. Nonetheless, as IPAC’s journey was not finished, I worked on for another seven years for the multinational firm AXA to whom we had sold our business. When I turned 50, I transitioned from a CEO role to a ‘portfolio’ role, consisting of governance roles.

The challenges and rewards of being on various Boards

Generally, I accept directorships with firms whose mission I am passionate about. Eg, SBS as I believe the role of quality public broadcasters to be fundamental to the sound operation of democracies; Western Sydney University as I believe education is a key pathway for people, especially migrants, to succeed in life, and of course my various roles in the banking and financial services sector, as the effective creation of credit and deployment of investment underpins the economic success of any country.

All jobs have periods which can be

frustrating, and being a Director is no different; however, if you believe in the underlying mission, it gives you the strength to persevere through the difficult times.

Being on the Australia Day Honours List

I felt honoured and grateful. Life is in three phases: Struggle, Success and Succession (or legacy). Being in the legacy phase of my life, I feel the honour recognises the contributions I have made and am seeking to make to the issues which I am passionate about, including the finance industry, education and proper governance and stewardship.

On future plans

My parenting responsibilities are not yet over, and my children are still in high school or university, so supporting them to complete their education and get settled into careers remains an outstanding duty. Professionally, I would like to support each of the firms on whose boards I serve to continue to fulfil their mission and grow.

This includes one of the leading firms in quantum cybersecurity, where I would like to see world-leading Australian technology being successfully commercialised.

Advice to new migrants

Success generally derives from attitude, capability and hard work. Most migrants have the will and the drive to succeed as they have no other fall-back. To that, you need to add some skills or capabilities (generally, but not always, through education). And then hard work, over a period of time. Having integrity, good values, and humility also helps (as luck is often important in success too!). Australia is a wonderful country to live in, and provides the opportunity for all who are prepared to put in to succeed. I believe it is important for all people to make some contribution to whatever community they live in, so I would encourage all migrants to give back in whatever way they can to causes and communities that are important to them.

Pawan Luthra

MR ELOQUENCE

Sydney’s CYRUS MEHER-HOMJI, OAM

For

Pianist, musicologist and record executive Cyrus Meher-Homji has carved a niche for himself in the classical music scene in Australia. He has made outstanding contributions to the record industry and to the advancement of classical music, especially with his own record label Eloquence. He talks to us here about his life in music

What drew you to music, classical in particular?

Growing up in Pune, I was surrounded by classical music. Both my parents enjoyed it and my paternal grandfather had an enviable record collection. He also played the violin (and dealt with the buying and selling of instruments) in his spare time. He was a dentist - staring into people’s mouths wasn’t a profession I was remotely interested in pursuing! – and as an amateur violinist also a very good friend of Mehli Mehta (Zubin’s father). Zubin, although based in Mumbai, would take theory lessons from an Italian violinist, Oddone Savini, who had rented premises on my grandparents’ property in Pune, so classical music had always been in the air. I was passionate about it, even obsessive, and started piano lessons at the age of five. I collected and listened to whatever records I could get my hands on and still vividly remember various aunts who encouraged me and gave me records to listen to. I always knew that classical music had to be a career path, but realising it was, at the time, another thing…

Tell us about your work at Universal Music Australia, and about Eloquence, your record company.

I am General Manager of the Classics & Jazz division at Universal Music Australia. I work extensively with artists and repertoire. I work with my team to market and publicise recordings released by our parent companies – Decca, Deutsche Grammophon, Verve, Blue Note, ABC Classics. I sign artists to the Australian label. Touring artists is a new and growing part of our business.

Eloquence was launched in 1999 to make great classical recordings from the rich archives of Decca and Deutsche Grammophon available to the wider public at reasonable prices. As the label has developed, it has explored the farthest recesses of recording history, unearthing recordings previously only on vinyl (or even shellac) and making them available on CD, and of course, digitally, on download and streaming platforms - many for the first time, internationally. Over 2000 titles have been issued. I’d previously launched a classical music magazine, Soundscapes, in

1993, shortly after graduation. It lasted six years, aged me a good twelve (entering the shark-infested waters of publishing, having trained as a pianist and musicologist was another experience!); it became a victim of publishers’ whims, and when it folded, I needed something like it that I could nurture, and Eloquence provided the perfect replacement.

You’ve been a presenter on radio and TV, a teacher, producer, writer and critic. Which role have you enjoyed the most?

I think all these roles feed into each other. At the heart of it is my passion for music and my great will to communicate this to as wide a public as possible. On radio, and now on TV/online with my program Good Listening (SBS and Foxtel) I introduce new classical recordings to the public. My lecturing days at universities in Western Australia, were yet another outlet to share this wonderful world - likewise critically assessing it when I wrote for The Australian and for specialist international magazines. As producer, I want to harness great, new, exciting, different and creative talent - again - so it could be experienced to its fullest. I’m sure that all these activities are linked - the essence of all being communicating the joy and wonderment, the discovery and rediscovery of music. I trained as a pianist, and the discipline that demanded is something that’s been rechannelled into my activities as a record executive today; my lecturing prepared me for public speaking and presentation, essential in my current role; my research and writing helped me develop techniques to delve into the Aladdin’s Cave of recordings from the past and to help revive them and write about them.

How would you advise young Indian-origin Australians regarding a career in the arts? Is it easier now than when you began?

Find your passion and create your own niche. I never went for a traditional job in my career. I started a magazine because there was a gap in the market and it was the perfect way of harnessing the wonderful world I was involved in. That brought me in touch with recording companies around the world, as Soundscapes enjoyed international circulation. You know, there was a wonderful man who was responsible for bringing me to Australia as an eighteenyear-old: Sir Frank Callaway, one of the great men of music in this country. I remember my parents - like all doting parents, wondering what kind of a living I would earn having chosen a, shall we

say, untraditional path - asking him where he thought I’d end up in order to earn a crust. And he said to them that they needn’t worry. That I’d find my own path and my own channels and somehow turn them into a profession. He was probably right. But you need these guardian angels in your life, someone to guide you and encourage you.

Sir Frank, his successor at the University of Western Australia David Tunley, my piano teacher in Sydney Elizabeth Powell, my loving parents, and presently, our company President George Ash, have all been seminal to the development and evolution of my career. They’ve given me wings and encouraged me to fly - sometimes I might fly too close to the sun, but better that than staying dormant. Is it more difficult today than it was in my own time? Yes, there is a great deal more competition today, but that’s because there are more platforms and in turn, more opportunity.

Are you involved with the music scene in India at all?

I do know about the wonderful work the Mehli Mehta Foundation under Mehroo Jeejeebhoy does in bringing musicians, orchestras, great artists to India. As a child, we regularly went to recitals (and occasionally orchestral concerts), and it was seminal to my development. I’m glad the tradition has been kept alive. One of my closest musical friends, Roxane Anklesaria, is now one of India’s leading piano teachers. Pianists like Pervez Mody (we shared a piano teacher, Farida Dubash) have carved a wonderful career for themselves. And then, of course, there’s the doyen of all Indian-born classical musicians, Zubin Mehta, whom I regard as a friend, and the reissue of whose magnificent recordings for Decca was one of the first projects I undertook when launching the Eloquence label.

But, of course, the scene has expanded greatly. One of the newest forms of classical music is ‘neo-classical’, blending alternative music with classical, and led by

such composers/performers as Ludovico Einaudi, Joep Beving, Max Richter and Peter Gregson. I think a lot of traditional instrumental Indian classical music could morph or cross-fertilise into this area and it’s something I’d really like to explore. This new genre/movement enjoys links with health, meditation, relaxation, and I can just hear how beautifully Indian instruments could be integrated into this soundworld. Given that so much music discovery is led by mood, this would work perfectly. More traditionally, Anoushka Shankar and Norah Jones, both children of the great Ravi Shankar, are signed to us as part of the Universal Music Group.

What do you hope to achieve with your OAM honour?

When I tell people that I’ve been working for Universal Music Group for nearly 21 years they often gasp in surprise. How can anyone last so long in such a rapidlychanging environment? The answer is that you’re never the same two months ago as you are today. You can’t afford to be. Every month or week, even day, is a new experience for me. New platforms are embracing the styles of music I care about, making it so much more accessible and discoverable. We have moved into the roles of presenters, so that we’re not just making, marketing and distributing records, but also giving the public to see these artists in concert; regional touring in Australia is a very important part of our gambit, as it allows us to take our musicians into areas sometimes bereft of this line of entertainment. We’ve started a classical publishing division to bring composers, new and old, into our family. We’re producing more and more content to demystify, defrost classical music. I am humbled to have been honoured in this way, and hope it might further assist my efforts to completely remove the sometimes self-imposed shackles that western art music finds itself bound by.

Rajni Anand Luthra

service to the performing arts, particularly through music

Photo: Universal Music Australia

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS

A FAUJI FERVOUR TO COMMUNITY WORK

Adelaide’s VIKRAM MADAN, OAM

For service to multicultural affairs

Major General Vikram Madan (Retd) has won major awards in his distinguished military career in India, including the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) not once but twice.

However, he says being awarded the OAM in his adopted country feels like an even greater achievement, as it is for his voluntary work in the community.

Vikram Madan had been coming to Australia occasionally to visit his sisters who are settled here. On one such visit in 2006, he met Veena. Within a few months, he had decided that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her, and they got married the following year.

Settling down in Adelaide, Vikram closely observed the Indian community around him. It was a time when the Indian community was growing very quickly and there were challenges arising from this. Coming from a

service background in a leadership capacity, and having a passion for community work, Vikram Madan jumped in to become Vice President of the Indian Australian Association of SA (IAASA) in 2008.

He went on to become President. During this time there was a lot of conflict in the wider community due to the sudden, huge influx of migrants and students from India. Unfortunately, there were some violent incidents towards international students and taxi drivers.

In his role as IAASA President, Vikram did some outstanding work to help and support the victims and their families and advocate for quick resolution of the issues.

Seeing his commitment and leadership, the Government appointed him to the Board of SAMEAC (South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission).

As a SAMEAC member for the last eight

years, Vikram has advocated on behalf of all ethnic communities and says he has learnt about the “needs and aspirations of all our multicultural communities, and assisted them as well as Indian organisations to find pathways to settlement.”

Vikram is involved in many other organisations and committees including Multicultural Aged Care where he is the Chairman, Passenger Transport Standards Committee, OzAsia to name only a few. But one of his major achievements, he says are the fundraiser he organised for the Nepal Earthquake where they raised $43,000.

Another achievement he speaks of with much pride, is his success in securing for

CARING FOR OUR SENIORS

Indian defence veterans the right to march in the ANZAC Day Parade in South Australia.

In India, Madan gave 41 years of his life to the Indian Army. In his career he saw action in the Bangladesh war, in Sri Lanka, and during the insurgency operations in India’s north-east. He served eleven years in high altitude postings including Kargil at the India-Pakistan border, and commanded a Division in Punjab/J&K, fighting militancy.

“Community work in a foreign land is full of challenges,” Madan told Indian Link “I could not have done this without the support and encouragement of Veena and my family.”

Vinaya Rai

Adelaide’s VIVEK PADMANABHAN, OAM For service to aged welfare

Say the word ‘Padman’ in South Australia, and the thought that comes to mind is Aged Care. And Viv Padman, who started the business, is highly regarded not only for establishing some of the best aged care facilities in the country but also for his involvement in the Aged Care industry at state and national levels.

Viv has been associated with the Australian Aged Care Association continuously since 1983, being a Board Member for many years and then Chairman.

He has also been on several Ministerappointed committees involved in the development of policies and guidelines.

Viv Padmanabhan established Padman Health Care in 1984 with a small facility in Henley Beach. “It was an opportunity to own our own business,” he told Indian Link, “as I felt there were plenty of opportunities for growth.”

And grow they did, not only in size but in quality of care and concern for the welfare of the elderly. Vivek says they wanted to improve standards and “provide the care that we would want for our parents.”

Vivek’s parents moved to East Africa from Kerala as teachers. Following political upheaval in Uganda, the family moved to Adelaide in

1973 when Vivek was 15 years old.

The family got involved in the small Indian community and Vivek’s father became President of the Indian Australian Association of SA (IAASA). It was a great introduction to young Vivek in community work, himself working with association as a young adult. He also supported the Adelaide Malayalee Association (AMMA) too especially in its early years.

He was a regular broadcaster on Indian Community Radio on 103.1FM too.

In the wider community, Vivek was a member on several boards and committees. “All these were in a voluntary capacity,” he says, “which helped me contribute to the needs of the Aged Care Industry to a much greater extent.”

Even though he sounds proud when he speaks of some of the “exciting” facilities he has built, his humility shines when asked what he considers his greatest accomplishment.

“I think to have made a difference to the quality of life of our residents in the last years of their lives, that is what is most important to me.”

“There is a lot of emotion involved when a person has to leave their home. They are quite fragile. We try to make the transition as seamless as possible with exceptional care and comfort.”

Viv Padmanabhan credits his success to his wife Florence’s role in the business. She is Executive Director of Nursing. “Florence was a big part of the business,” he says, “and all credit goes to her for making it so successful.”

Vivek has started a luxury aged care service called Premier Health Care in which his daughters, Reena, a lawyer and Sunita, an oncologist, are also involved.

Vivek’s passion for his work comes through loud and clear when he talks about it.

This latest honour “is very humbling”, he says, “because it is recognition for doing something constructive for the community. This was also my late father’s passion, which he carried out in India, Uganda & Australia.”

Vinaya Rai

THE PRODUCTIVITY OF OUR LANDSCAPES

Shepparton’s MENON PARAMESWARAN, OAM

For service to primary industry

Having just returned from his native Kerala, Dr Menon Parameswaran, agricultural scientist, cannot stop talking about the state of affairs there especially after the devastating floods of August last year.

“Climate change is an important issue to consider in India,” he said to Indian Link. “Floods and drought are increasing in frequency, and the untimely arrival of the monsoon is causing confusion about cropping etc.”

Education is the key, he stressed. “People should be educated about the ramifications of climate change and the conservation of natural resources. The carrot and stick approach should work well in my opinion: give incentives to people, or be strict with polluters.”

“I’m very fond of India,” he hastened to add, “and if I had the power and authority, these are the thigs I would like to do.”

For nearly 50 years in Australia, environmental studies have been Dr Parameswaran’s life.

A top-ranking student at the University of Kerala and Pantnagar University in Nainital, India, he came to Australia in 1971 with a PhD fellowship at the University of Adelaide. His doctoral work on wheat agronomy set new benchmarks in the wheat industry and not only won him much acclaim, but also boosted state yield by 20%.

He then spent many years in research and training in natural resource management at

the University of Melbourne, his skills and expertise leading to contributions in the field of primary industry.

“Notable amongst my contributions was my research with the Jerusalem Artichoke, a tuberous root vegetable like the tapiocca,” Dr Parameswaran described. “I used it to create a fermentable substrate to produce ethanol, to be blended with petrol for use in automotives. It received wide acclaim.”

As well, his research on land and water salinity, irrigation and drainage, and strategies to conserve water (“such a precious resource”) have been published extensively in scientific journals.

So how would he advise India?

“India must step up its use of scientific technology in its primary industry,” he observed. “For instance breed new varieties suited to the environment, instead of using the same varieties everywhere – this will enhance crop yield and productivity.

Tamil Nadu seems to be doing this to some extent but in Kerala, my observation is that commercial agriculture is dying out. They seem to be focussed on promoting tourism, while buying food from other states.”

And what could Australia be doing better?

“We need to encourage STEM education. We need more people to take up STEM careers – perhaps from the Indian community, because we come for a land of eminent mathematicians, and so must continue the tradition to the betterment of our adopted country. We must encourage

women especially – I believe in cultural and gender equality. The participation by women in STEM is much lower than expected and this has to change. As regards the quality of maths and science education in this country, the system seems to be geared towards achieving a high score rather than actual learning. And the lack of good teachers is a concern too.”

Having now retired from his academic career, Dr Parameswaran continues to lead an active life with involvement in the community. He sits on the boards of hospitals as well as educational and business institutions such as Shepparton’s Community Health Service, Australian Institute of Agriculture Science and Technology, Australian Institute of Community Practice, Victorian Multicultural Business Advisory Council, and the Adult, Community and Further Education Board.

He’s also a great proponent of multiculturalism. “Shepparton is a great

centre for government settlement programs for migrants so there are Afghani, Pakistani, Iranian communities here. I enjoy mingling with them and attending their events, and encourage fellow board members to welcome these people as well.”

It is no wonder that The Sun Herald recently ran a cartoon of him as a ‘man with many ideas’.

About his OAM, Dr Parameswaran remains deeply humble. “It is a great honour. We shouldn’t be working for awardscommit yourself to work of the community, that itself is the award. But without doubt my OAM will be a catalyst to do much in future. Perhaps it is God’s message that other people are looking at my life!”

This Australia Day, Dr Parameswaran will be celebrating not just the OAM honour but another one as well: the Shepparton Australia Day Committee has named him the Citizen of the Year.

Rajni Anand Luthra

TAKING MEDICINE TO THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST

Perth’s MAHARAJ KISHORE TANDON, OAM

For service to the community through a range of roles

Respiratory medicine specialist Dr. Maharaj Kishore Tandon took his MBBS (1961) and MD degrees in Agra, India, and then moved to the UK where he underwent specialist MRCP examinations in London and Glasgow. He then came to Melbourne as a guest of the Veteran Affairs Department, where he worked as a respiratory physician, before moving to Perth with his family in 1969. He worked in the Repatriation Hospital until 1994.

Dr Tandon has received an OAM honour this Australia Day, for his community service, particularly those which help provide medical aid to those who are disadvantaged. His professional links have extended across a wide spectrum of institutions in his long career, including Red Cross Australia, Notre Dame University, OXFAM, The Fred Hollows Foundation, Caritas, Wheelchairs for Kids, St Vincent de Paul, World Vision, Doctors Without Borders and Australasian Palliative Link International.

“One of my favourite activities in this regard

was conducting Equal Health medical camps in Tamil Nadu, India for 9 years (20022011), but unfortunately could not continue following a stroke,” Dr Tandon told Indian Link.

He then continued with his passion for serving the underprivileged, by working with Indigenous Australians from rural and remote Australia.

Dr Tandon’s strong humanitarian considerations have led him to believe that the cost of medical care should never be a barrier for those who could benefit from his treatment. Dr Tandon uses Medicare’s bulk-billing as much as possible, which is particularly commendable for a specialist of his calibre and level of expertise.

Dr Tandon is a much loved and regarded member of the Indian community in Perth. He was a founding member of the Indian Society of WA (ISWA) in 1972 before becoming secretary, and has been a patron since 2008. He is currently President of the Catholic Doctor’s Association, and is Chair

for Charity Affairs of the Australian Indian Medical Doctor’s Association which has been growing in influence in recent years.

“I am very honoured to receive this recognition and see it as encouragement and enablement for me to continue serving more deserving members of society,” Dr Tandon said about his latest honour.

His advice to new migrants?

“Do the best you can and you will be rewarded in time.”

Uma Nair

AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS

BEATING PANCREATIC CANCER

Sydney’s JASWINDER SINGH SAMRA, OAM

For service to medicine as a pancreatic specialist

One of Australia’s most experienced pancreatic surgeons Jaswinder Samra has been recognised with Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for services to medicine. With extensive academic, clinical and research interests in the field of pancreatic cancer, Professor Samra has been associated with Royal North Shore Hospital, North Shore Private, The Mater and Macquarie University Hospitals.

Pancreatic cancer, the tenth most common cancer in adults, is often too advanced at diagnosis and complex to manage clinically, requiring an aggressive multi-disciplinary approach.

His cutting edge work at Royal North Shore’s internationally renowned pancreatic surgery unit has led to some of the highest success rates in NSW.

Additionally, he co-founded the Australian

Pancreatic Centre, combining breadth of knowledge and depth of experience for best possible patient outcomes.

A key collaborator at the Australian Pancreatic Cancer Genome Initiative, Prof Samra is also a member of the Australia and New Zealand Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Association.

“This award pays tribute to the dedication, hard work and insight of the team at the Pancreatic Cancer Centre. I’ve also been blessed in working with esteemed doctors at the Royal North Shore hospital,” Dr Samra told Indian Link

Born in the UK, Dr Samra spent his formative years in Punjab, before returning to UK to complete his schooling and went on to attend Manchester and Oxford Universities.

“My life has taken me across the globe

RETAIL TO RANGBHOOMI

from UK, India and now Australia for the past 22 years,” he fondly reminisced.

“My affiliation to Australia is heartfelt and strong. Both personally and professionally my life in this country has been richly rewarded. I met my wife Brijinder Randhawa here,” he stated.

“Indians in Australia are a small yet dynamic and robust community. I take pride in the contributions we make in all walks of life as Australians,” he added.

Dedicating the award to his late mother Sukhvir Kaur, a remarkable woman who has left a lasting imprint on his life, he believes his upbringing has given him a unique perspective on what it means to be Indian, British and Australian. “I love many things

Melbourne’s MANDAR MADHUSUDAN VAIDYA, OAM

For service

the performing arts

and community,” said Mandar who feels ‘absolutely blessed and honoured’ to receive the OAM for his lifelong passion.

Mandar’s love for theatre began at the age of seven when he started accompanying his mother to her drama rehearsals. He was fascinated by the vibrancy of the sets and started replicating it in his primary school years by creating kids’ versions of the professional plays he saw.

The acting bug continued throughout his school and university days as he frequently produced, acted or directed plays. He considered himself very fortunate to have trained under the renowned Vikram Watve during his formative theatrical years.

began work as a data analyst for Retail.

It was time to get back to his creative pursuits. For nearly a decade he continued to act, direct, sing and dance in many programs with the local Maharashtra Mandal groups.

“It was hard to dedicate so much time consistently; especially directing full length plays,” said Mandar sharing his theatrical journey.

“A play with a run time of 2-3 hours can take on an average 3 months of rehearsals, taking up every weekend from 9 am-5 pm. Dedicating that time to my art, however, offered me great satisfaction. Theatre thus became ‘a part time job’ for my soul,” said Mandar.

about Australia, not least its egalitarian, humour-filled zest for living. I am also proud to be Punjabi. My father Surinder Singh embodies all that I admire of my Sikh heritage,” he noted.

Speaking about his enduring passion in the management of pancreatic cancer patients, Dr Samra acknowledged that the task is enormous.

“It gives me tremendous satisfaction that I have been a part of national and international collaborations to diminish the burden of this disease. There is much more work to be done and I feel immensely privileged to work with outstanding colleagues in this endeavour,” he concluded.

Usha Ramanujam Arvind

Melbourne based retailer and artist Mandar Madhusudan Vaidya has added another accolade to his list of achievements, being awarded with this year’s OAM for service to the performing arts.

Making the rich tradition of Marathi theatre ‘accessible and enjoyable’ to Melbourne audience has been a joyful cultural experience for this performance artist.

“Theatre to me is living in a meditative state of life. It helps to pause and rest my mind within my daily routine of work, family

During his last year in university in 1994, he formed Reaction, a theatre group along with some like-minded artists. Together they produced plays such as Bumbai Ke Kauvve (Hindi), Pratibimba (Hindi and Marathi), Amhi Latike Na Bolu (Marathi).

According to Mandar his group performed 250 plus shows, mainly at the iconic Prithvi Theatre. They did several performances at the Tata National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) theatre and toured Maharashtra and Delhi.

Finishing university with an MBA in Marketing, Mandar migrated to Australia in 2000. In 2002 Mandar took a postgraduate diploma in IT from Swinburne University and

In 2012 he founded the not-for-profit Kalavishkar, where he directed Hindi plays and conducted acting workshops. His wife Manasi and daughter Soumya continued to support him in his endeavours.

In 2015 other theatre enthusiasts joined him and they formed the Natyadarpan Indian Theatre Academy (NITA). Collaboratively they developed their artistic and acting muscles.

Natyadarpan is a community organisation that aims to bring diverse artists under the same roof to project reflections of life experiences in a theatrical form. They conduct acting workshops and present dramas regularly to Melbourne audiences.

“We help developing actors, directors, writers, translators, singers, background music

providers, stage light and sound specialists, promoters and set designers, covering almost every aspect of theatre,” said Mandar.

“I dedicate my award to the 100-plus members of Natyadarpan who have supported our endeavours, volunteered and worked tirelessly to take our theatrical activities to another level,” said Mandar.

“Theatre adds to the rich value system and culture of India and sharing it on one common platform aligns to the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or world family,” he continued.

Building a bridge between a community of artists and the broader community, Mandar continues to commit himself to creating theatre that goes beyond our everyday lives.

Preeti Jabbal

PATIENTS, FIRST AND FOREMOST

Sydney’s SUJON KUMAR PURKAYASTHA, OAM

For service to medicine as an obstetrician and gynaecologist

Order of Australia Medal (OAM) recipient, Dr Sujon Kumar Purkayastha’s 40-year stint as an obstetrician and gynaecologist has been demanding and rewarding in equal measure.

“It’s those sacrifices that make receiving this award so satisfying. It means more than what I could adequately express to everyone who has been part of my life, none more so than my wife Aruna, son Shimanto and daughter-in-law Shivangi,” he told Indian Link.

“I am proud, humbled and honoured to be a recipient of OAM. It’s an incredible feeling to be recognised for contribution to their community and country at large. I have lived here for 42 years and three generations of my family are blessed to call this wonderful and beautiful country home. The OAM is a testament to the fact that Australia recognises dedication and honesty,” he added.

Serving the rural communities of Hunter and Goulburn in both public and

private settings, the Shillong-born medical professional, who was trained in India, Australia and the UK, was warmly welcomed by the people of Australia when he first arrived in seventies. He reciprocated by making “a concerted and conscious effort to return to the community, especially in terms of participation and consideration”. Honesty, commitment and dedication have been the cornerstones of his successful medical practice.

He is grateful to the people of Goulburn as well as colleagues and staff at Goulburn Base Hospital for giving him an opportunity to serve them and more importantly for the friendship, fostering a deep sense of belonging. “And of course, all my patients that I had the pleasure of getting to know over the many years I spent in that wonderful part of Australia. Many have expressed pride and happiness and I am glad they can enjoy the award with me,” he continued.

Looking after the individual needs of every patient entrusted to his care to the very best

PRACTISING COMPASSION

"Iwas ecstatic,” Dr. Sundar tells Indian Link, about being informed that he was to be honoured with OAM this year. “I came here as a young practitioner in 1974 - that’s 40 years ago - and worked hard to be where I am today. So it feels absolutely fantastic to receive this recognition.”

Dr. Sundar, 75, was born and raised in Ooty (India), and completed his education in Pondicherry and Delhi. “I was working in Delhi University, researching on cirrhosis of the liver in children. At the time, an Australian professor, Prof McDonald saw my work and invited me to be a resident in Perth’s Princess Margaret Hospital and learn more about the disease in Australia’s Aboriginal as well as other communities.”

Two years later, he moved to Newcastle Hospital and worked as a registrar in paediatrics. Over the years, after having worked across the country - Campbelltown, Liverpool, Kiama and more - Dr. Sundar now practices at Toongabbie at Dr Sundar Family Medical Practice. But how did the change from paediatrics to general practitioner happen? “I wanted to expand my repertoire and I thought I’d get to work with people of all ages, right from birth to old age.”

Dr. Sundar, now a GP for 40 years, also talks about treating diabetes, the most highlyprevalent disease among Indians in Australia.

of his ability has been the key dictum of his professional journey. “It is doubly important that we contribute to the betterment of our country so our grandchildren are the beneficiaries of our efforts,” he concluded.

Dr Purkayastha retired from full time

During his time with Australian Indian Medical Graduate Association (AIMGA), Sundaram worked relentlessly every year to treat members of the Indian community. “I noticed that Indians had high levels of blood sugar, obesity and hypertension. In one case that’s particularly astounding, I found a 9-yearold boy with Type-1 diabetes. That spurred me on to conduct check-ups in different communities every year. I began working with Indians, and then Filipinos.”

He would even sit at the local shopping centre now and then for an hour and offer to do medical check-ups free of cost. “Of course, I didn’t know then that I would receive an award for it,” he laughs. “At the time, I just wanted to do something for the community.”

Dr. Sundar has been part of numerous associations through which he has actively contributed to the society, such as Australia India Medical Graduate Association, the AASHA Foundation, Blacktown Medical Practitioners Association, NSW Indian Welfare Association, United Indian Association and Tamil Manram.

Of these, the UIA and Tamil Manram are especially close to his heart. “As part of Tamil Manram, my wife (Rani) and I started sponsoring the Tamil school. That was 27 years ago and it had only one student. Today we’ve got 300 students. I’m so proud that we were able to sponsor them back then.”

work in 2017 to enjoy the company of his granddaughter Shanaya. He is therefore particularly delighted to share this happiness with her in the years to come.

Usha Ramanujam Arvind

He says about UIA, “It houses so many multicultural groups where people can get together, celebrate festivals together. Our children grow up together, those things are so important.”

So what does the future hold for Dr. Sundar? “I want to continue my work in diabetes for Indians here. I’d also like to get more involved in counselling for elderly parents who are victims of domestic violence. Another cause that I feel very strongly about is children being exposed to violence through films. It’s very disconcerting to me when I see parents bringing toddlers and young kids to violent movies. I’d like to do something about it.”

Dr. Sundar adds with a smile, “I won’t be retiring. Not any time soon.”

Neha Malude

‘India should be an APEC member '

Shadow Minister for Trade Jason Clare on India’s growing economic might, following his maiden visit there

Prior to his first visit to India, Shadow Minister for Trade Jason Clare expressed his surprise that Australia does almost the same level of trade with New Zealand as they do with India, even though New Zealand has but a quarter of the population of Delhi.

“Australian companies are comfortable doing business with South Asian countries such as Japan and Korea, unfortunately they have not included North Asia in their plans. And I find that surprising as India in North Asia is one of the world’s fastest growing economies,” he told Indian Link.

During his tour of India, he said that with trade becoming fundamental for global peace and stability and preventing the US-China kind of trade wars, it is vital to push for an Indo-Pacific free trade zone like the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) that should include India.

APEC is a free trade agreement among 21 Pacific Rim member economies to which India has been seeking admission. It includes Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, the US and Vietnam.

Australia has been pushing India's case for induction into the APEC, as well as in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Promoting Indian membership of these bodies has bipartisan support in Australia irrespective of the party in power, Clare revealed.

"The world is different today from what it was years ago when the United Nations was founded. India is poised to become the world's third largest economy and requires to be represented at the UNSC... it has Australia's support," Clare said.

He referred to the report released last year by the Australian government titled "India Economic Strategy to 2035: Navigating from potential to delivery" authored by its former High Commissioner in New Delhi Peter Varghese which argues that India should be

brought into the APEC.

"For Australia, India is a partner in seeking to forge regional institutions in the IndoPacific and so needs to be part of the APEC. India needs to represent the Indo-Pacific in APEC, which doesn't make sense without India," Clare said.

"As partners in the Indo-Pacific we are each grappling with the implications of the fading of US strategic predominance in the region," he added.

In this connection, the Australian politician pointed to the revival of the quadrilateral initiative - “Quad” - that was revived a year ago involving India, Australia, Japan and the US as a "welcome initiative on strategic issues."

The Quad of democratic countries advocate a free and open Indo-Pacific for shared peace and prosperity.

"If countries like India, China, Australia need to achieve their growth goals we need peace and stability in the region. Over the long term we need to aim for an APEC free trade agreement that involves the major powers like US, China, India, Australia,

Indonesia," Clare said.

Referring to the ongoing US-China trade war, he said that a "lot of people in the US and UK are worried about trade endangering jobs", but for Australia it is important to grow its trade with countries of the region.

"Both Australia and India see China as an important part of inclusive regional institutions," the Australian Shadow Trade Minister said.

On India's chances of APEC membership, he pointed to the hopeful fact of APEC members also being involved in the negotiations for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) that includes India. RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the six Asia-Pacific states with which ASEAN has existing free trade agreements (Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand).

"APEC members are involved in the RCEP discussions, so it is a logical next step for India to becoming part of APEC," Clare said, adding that he is hopeful about the RCEP

negotiations concluding this year.

According to the "India Economic Strategy" report, no single market over the next 20 years will offer more growth opportunities for Australia than India.

The report targets Australian exports to India to grow from $15 billion in 2017 to around $45 billion by 2035 and outward Australian investments to India rise from $10.3 billion to over the $100 billion mark, reflecting a transformational expansion of the relationship. "Australians have been hesitant about doing business outside the country and they have to be bold about seizing opportunities overseas," Clare said.

One of the ways to engage more with India, Clare had said in his interview prior to his departure, is to have more frequent direct flights between India and Australia.

“Currently there is only one airline which is flying direct between the two countries,” he pointed out. “With China, there are 10 direct daily flights, and there are 14 flights a day to Singapore.”

But when pressed on whether the Federal government should offer incentives to airlines to increase frequency, Clare deflected it back to the state governments to take a lead in this matter.

But the Shadow Minister did promise that should the Labor party come into power this year, there will be double the number of trade missions going to India.

“We will also encourage and implement internship programmes where young Australians and Indians can go and live and work between the two countries. That will build up good understanding and hopefully business opportunities,” he said.

In New Delhi, the Shadow Minister also took part in a CII sponsored meeting with representatives of Indian industry like Wipro, Aditya Birla Group, and Vikram Solar, as well as institutions like Amity University which have either an established presence in Australia or are looking to do business here.

Biswajit Choudhury in India and Pawan Luthra in Sydney

Jason Clare at Macquarie Bank India

At peace in the madding crowd: Taking a holy dip at the Kumbh

It is the largest spiritual, cultural and religious congregation of its kind and attracts crores of devotees from India and abroad at the Sangam - the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers and the mythical Saraswati. The historic city of Praygaraj, which was recently renamed from Allahabad, is witnessing the coming together of saints, seers and devotees in numbers that can blind the human eye.

Everywhere in the city, from its by-lanes to the bathing ghats, all one can see is devout believers headed in one direction. Upon arriving in the city, the first sights are those of folks arriving from the rural regions of the country. Their sheer belief in the faith they practise resonates from their eyes like vapour arising from a snow-clad mountain in the morning sky, lulling the environment of the city in a spiritual mood.

As you walk down the road that leads to the Sangam, you will encounter thousands of people, wearing different costumes, talking in different languages and chanting prayers as they walk. The city has itself been decorated to welcome the visitors.

Paintings, depicting scenes from ancient Indian scriptures, adorn the walls along the roads and the underpasses. And then there are elements of the great Indian circus that evoke curiosity among the visitors. Jaadugars displaying their myriad tricks, astrologers predicting the future to a gathering and medicine sellers attracting customers by enthusiastically speaking into their microphones, are the sights that keep one company in the long walk to the river bank.

As the river makes its appearance in the distant horizon, numerous sadhus and mystics, in their myriad avatars, are seen in their respective tents. They have all gathered at the banks of the river and these holy men display their unusual practices in full glory.

Seated at one of the tents near the pontoon bridges that lead the visitors to Sangam, for example, is a holy man showing off his nearly three-metre long moustache, which he claims to have grown over a decade. Dozens of devotees throng his tent. Some seek photographs and selfies.

Barely a few steps away from him is "Selfie Baba", clad in a spiritual attire and equipped with a selfie stick attached to a

smartphone. His appearance, in his own words, signifies the meeting of mythology and technology.

Along the way to the Sangam, several temples make their appearances, with a distinct bhajan playing in each of them. The visitors are offered prasad at several of them, before they finally reach the destination.

The very sight of Sangam is refreshing; its water clean, for a change, and despite the huge crowd, it somehow seems to accommodate all. For safety, personnel have been deployed on the bathing ghats and ropes demarcating the bathing areas can be seen. The water level in most permissible areas is mild and there is a rope for visitors to hold on to while they take the holy dip.

It's a sight worth seeing - and an experience worth living. All tensions that inflict the human mind seem to lose their relevance the moment one goes fullbody-down under the holy water, which, according to the legends, opens the doors to heaven. The icy-cold water sends jitters through the nerves but its impact is felt only for a few seconds. By the time one rises out, both the sensation of the chilly winter and the cold water is gone.

Opening one's eyes after the holy dip introduces one to a world slightly different than the one before. The picture is more clear, the sounds more vibrant, and the mind so peaceful: call it the impact of the churlish chidings of the winter's wind or a divine force at play but there is surely something extraordinary that the devout undergo after the holy dip.

The chants of Har Har Mahadev and Har Har Gange resonate in the air as one steps out and offers a prayer to the Sun god.

The holy dip is symbolic of a new beginning: the devotees seek forgiveness for their errors and make a fresh start after it.

Saket Suman

India scaling up defence diplomacy in extended neighbourhood

Keeping regional security in mind, India has scaled up its defence cooperation with its extended neighbourhood in the last three years under New Delhi's Neighbourhood First, Act East and Look West policies. Informed sources in New Delhi claim there has been an emphasis on defence exports with 'Made in India' products being a

priority area.

In the Maldives, where political turmoil took much of last year, the Indian establishment is now seeing the situation as getting stable as the Indian Ocean archipelago nation is critical for regional security from New Delhi's perspective.

The year 2018 started off on a wrong note in the neighbourhood with then Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen, seen to have been distancing himself from India and leaning towards China, imposing a state of emergency in February.

Yameen's move was in defiance of a Supreme Court ruling that ordered the release of nine opposition leaders, including former President Mohammed Nasheed.

Pro-India Nasheed, who was in exile at that time, requested New Delhi to send an envoy, "backed by its military", to secure the release of judges and political detainees, including former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

Though the Indian Army did not set its boots on the Indian Ocean archipelago nation, New Delhi kept calling for restoration of all democratic institutions there.

The crisis came to an end in September when Ibrahim Mohammed Solih, put up as the joint opposition candidate, defeated Yameen in the presidential election.

After India signed a bilateral action plan with the Maldives in 2016, the country's defence minister is set to visit India later this week.

According to the sources, India now has a number of coastal surveillance radar systems (CSRS) in the Maldives.

With Bangladesh too, defence diplomacy is on the upswing after Manohar Parrikar became the first ever Indian Defence Minister to visit the eastern neighbour.

India has extended a $500-million line of credit (LoC) to Bangladesh to look at Indian defence products.

With Sri Lanka too, a similar line of credit has been extended and there has been exchange of visits by high-level military officers between India and the island nation.

India is also holding defence dialogues with Myanmar after that country's transition to a civilian-led government following the general elections in 2015.

"With Myanmar, we have worked on various issues, especially in the maritime domain," one of the sources familiar with the developments said.

Devotees take a holy dip at Sangam, the confluence of three of the holiest rivers in Hindu mythology, the Ganga, the Yamuna and the Saraswati, during Kumbh Mela festival in Allahabad, India, 21 January 2019. 120 million devotees and tourists are expected to attend the Hindu festival which concludes on 04 March 2019. Photo: AP

Under the Act East Policy, India is building its defence ties with with key Southeast Asian nations like Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia.

"We now have structured dialogues with Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia," the source mentioned above said.

"We have signed an equipment-centred MoU (memorandum of understanding) with the Philippines."

Extending further east, India has also boosted its defence ties with Japan and Australia.

India, Japan and Australia, along with the US, are part of a quad revived in 2017 that seeks to work for peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacfic, a region that stretches from the east coast of Japan to the east coast of Africa.

This comes in the face of China's increasing footprint in the region and Beijing's aggression in the South China Sea. Japan and India have held air force exercises, which is a significant development.

The two sides have also set up the first ever joint venture for defence equipment production.

With Australia, there has been a considerable forward movement in the last three years, according to the sources.

Apart from the armies and navies of the two countries participating in joint exercises, the Indian Air Force also participated in Exercise Pitch Black organised by the Royal Australian Air Force. However, the most remarkable transition in defence ties has been with India's extended neighbourhood towards the west.

The low-key defence relationship with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has grown up considerably in the last two to three years.

Apart from holding joint naval exercises, the UAE is now looking at India as a potential source of defence equipment.

There have been positive outreaches from India to Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

"We are now exploring the possibility of a joint army exercise with Egypt," one source said.

It is learnt that other countries like Jordan and Morocco are also engaging with India in a more active manner, especially in terms of counter-terrorism.

India has also boosted its defence cooperation with Central Asian nations like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan, according to the sources.

Karnataka's 111-yearold socio-religious icon mourned

Karnataka's 111-year-old revered seer, Shivakumara Swami of the Siddaganga Mutt in Tumakuru, the most influential leader of the Lingayat community, died on 21 Jan following protracted illness.

Known among his followers as a "walking god" and an incarnation of 12th century social reformer Basava, the seer also headed the Sree Siddaganga Education Society, which runs about 130 educational institutions across the state - from engineering colleges to business schools.

Many of the institutions offer free education and boarding and lodging facilities to poor students.

Fluent in English, Kannada and Sanskrit, the seer was widely respected for his secular outlook and the charitable activities he presided over.

Thousands of grieving followers gathered at his hermitage where he was shifted to on 16 January on his request although he had not fully recovered in the hospital where he was warded. As news of his death spread, many men and women broke down outside his ashram and hundreds of people rushed to the Mutt for a last glimpse of the seer, who was kept in a sitting posture in a glass casket.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, BJP President Amit Shah and scores of political leaders in Karnataka, including state Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, mourned Swami's death.

The Chief Minister also said the state government would recommend to the Centre to confer "Bharat Ratna", highest civilian award, on the seer.

Indian-American Senator Kamala Harris says she'll run for President

Kamala Harris, a Senator of Indian descent, announced on Monday that she is running for President in the 2020 elections branding herself a "fighter" for the American people.

As the daughter of an Indian mother and an African-Jamaican father, she claims both heritages and chose to declare her candidacy on the day that is observed as Martin Luther King Day, honouring the

slain African-American civil rights leader who was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's message of 'satyagraha'.

She made the announcement on a national TV program and simultaneously released a campaign video on social media with a call to "fight for American values".

"The American public wants a fighter and they want someone that's going to fight like heck for them and not fight based on selfinterest and I'm prepared to do that," she said.

Harris was elected to the Senate in 2016, the same year President Donald Trump, whom she has been fighting, was elected. She became the first person of IndianAmerican descent elected to the Senate and the second woman of African-American descent.

Harris will have to first win the Democratic Party nomination next year battling several candidates, including Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu elected to Congress, Senator Elizabeth Warren and former Housing Secretary Julian Castro.

A lawyer, Harris was elected California State Attorney-General before coming to the Senate.

Her role in law enforcement has drawn criticism from some in the Democratic Party and the New York Times published a scorching op-ed denouncing her as "often being on the wrong side of history" because of her tough anti-crime policies and not progressive enough on criminal justice reform.

But that could also be a plus for her, strengthening her credentials as more of a centrist who could appeal to a broader voter base while also advancing a progressive agenda.

Her tough prosecutorial background was on display on the Senate the Judiciary Committee when she grilled Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who had been accused of sexual harassment by several women, when his nomination to the top court was under consideration.

And if she were to ultimately run against Trump in 2020, she would need all toughness she can muster.

Harris is campaigning on universal healthcare, providing government health insurance for all and large tax cuts for the middle class. She is an advocate for immigrant rights and a campaigner protecting women's rights.

Her campaign said that it would not accept donations from political action committees set up by corporations to fund candidates.

Harris' mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a cancer researcher from Chennai and her father, Donald Harris, is a Stanford University economics professor.

India to be global growth leader in 2019-20: IMF

The International Monetary Fund's (IMF) World Economic Outlook Update released by chief economist Gita Gopinath has said that India's economy is expected to grow by 7.5 per cent in the 2019-20 fiscal year, keeping an upward trajectory as the rest of the world slumps.

India will continue to be the world's fastest growing major economy, the report said.

The IMF's flagship report said that India's growth was estimated to be 7.3 per cent for the current fiscal year and forecast to rise to 7.7 per cent in 2020-21.

"India's economy is poised to pick up in 2019, benefiting from lower oil prices and a slower pace of monetary tightening than previously expected, as inflation pressures ease," the report said.

At the launch of the report in Davos, Switzerland, Gopinath said, "The global expansion is weakening and at a rate that is somewhat faster than expected."

She said the update projects global growth at 3.5 per cent in 2019, a downward revision of 0.2 per cent from the October report, and 3.6 per cent in 2020, a reduction of 0.1 per cent.

"We believe the risks to more significant downward corrections are rising."

However, she also said, "While this does not mean we are staring at a major downturn, it is important to take stock of the many rising risks."

Gopinath, a former adviser to the Kerala government and highly regarded professor at Harvard University, took over as the chief economist of the IMF in January, becoming the first woman to hold the key post in global economic policy-making.

She blamed the trade tensions and worsening financial conditions for the bleak outlook. "Higher trade uncertainty will further dampen investment and disrupt global supply chains," she said.

The IMF saw China's growth slipping from 6.6 per cent last year to 6.2 per cent this year.

The World Bank's projections published earlier this month for India's growth in the current and next fiscal years, match those of the IMF, but is lower at 7.5 per cent for 2020-21.

On the Indian side, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) put the current fiscal year's growth at 7.2 per cent and the Reserve Bank at 7.4 per cent.

India's first all-women's party launched, to contest LS polls

India's first-ever all-women political party - the National Women's Party (NWP) - was launched in Mumbai this month and it will contest half - 283 - of the 545 Lok Sabha seats in the 2019 elections.

The NWP, described as "a party of mothers", has been founded by a medico and social activist, (Dr) Shwetha Shetty, and will strive for 50 per cent reservation for women in the lower House.

"This party is a historic step in our mission to ensure equal representation for women in Parliament. Our ideology is to remove gender disparity in politics and thus create equal importance for females in the patriarchal Indian society," Shetty told media persons at Mumbai.

She pointed out that the battle to get reservations in Parliament is now over two decades old, but the fact is that we continue in a society where most political decisions are taken by males, with females not having an equal say in Parliament, thus diminishing the possibility of "women empowerment".

"With this initiative, the NWP plans to create an environment for full development of women which enables them to realise their full potential and help achieve the goals of empowerment," Shetty said.

The NWP will soon launch a mobile app called "Mahila Rakshak" which would provide assistance to women in distress during emergencies, since "safety is of utmost importance considering the growing incidents of crimes against them".

The party will open a Youth Parliament which would be political school for women in every state in the country to provide academic and practical training and exhort them to become involved in the country's political process, said Shetty.

IANS

Prof. Nihal Agar (extreme left) of Sydney, one of the 2019 recipients of the Indian Government’s Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, at the Pravasi Bharatiya Convention in Varanasi (24-26 January 2019), with Dr Hari Harinath and Mala Mehta, past recipients from Australia.

(Photo courtesy Mala Mehta)

Australia’s top two Indian restaurants

Two Indian restaurants have won hats in the 2019 Restaurant Chef Hat Awards organised by the Australian Good Food Guide

BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

Manjit’s @ The Wharf

When well-known restaurant brand Manjit’s launched their new dining sensation Manjit’s @ The Wharf in Barrangaroo, its chef, scion Varun Gujral, told Indian Link he’d like to win a Chef’s hat.

“But that will be a long time away,” he had qualified his statement hurriedly, adding humbly, “There’s so much learning to do before then.”

That was three whole years ago, in 2016, and the then 28-year-old was taking on his first role as head chef.

Varun has grown considerably since then, in confidence as well as experience, having stamped in the family-owned business as one to reckon with in the Indian restaurant scene in Sydney.

The daring young chef’s exciting take on age-old favourites is pushing the boundaries of Indian cuisine, as he spearheads innovation in technique as well as presentation. The Eggplant Takatak is but one of his works of art that has been Instagrammed repeatedly – the drama of the cloched baingan bharta never failing to lighten the mood around a table. Similarly, Varun’s pie-style Biryani also brings a smile to the face as it is laid out in front of you. To flavour your scallops, he presents you with your choice of 17 different powdered spices arranged in an ‘artist’s palette’ formation.

Other experiments have been equally popular. Lotus root mash. Powdered beetroot. Street-style chaat presented in an ice cream-style cone. Imli (tamarind) martinis. In mango pistachio kulfi, two perennial favourite kulfi flavours combined in one tall spire, standing in a delicately flavoured sauce.

Equally solid has been the contribution of his brother Deep Gujral, who takes the Manjit brand out to the community in his role as events coordinator. “Corporate events, community-based functions, weddings … we’ve earned a reputation for them all,” Deep tells Indian Link "My own favourites, I must confess, are weddings. I love going through with a young couple, the process of planning their special day, and then executing. It’s hugely rewarding when it all concludes satisfactorily. It’s also resulted in some great friendships. I’ve

just had lunch with a friend, whose little son’s birthday we are hosting. This will be the third generation in the family for who we have been hosting events, over a 35-year period!”

Deep and Varun have done much for the family business, taking it up several notches with their fresh approach to it all – and with their first Chef’s Hat.

The Gujral family’s love of food has been apparent also in its numerous appearances

vindaloo dishes, the Gujrals have helped acquire a more nuanced appreciation of Indian cuisine.

“Where else in Sydney would the President of India have dined,” wrote a regular patron under Manjit’s Facebook post describing President Kovind’s special request to visit the restaurant.

Master restaurateur Manjit Gujral started off in the industry in 1982 with his first restaurant in Potts Point. It then moved to Balmain, where it functions to this day, making it the oldest running Indian restaurant in Australia. The family then launched the Concord Function Centre, before taking up the Barrangaroo venue. A new city-based venue is on the cards, Deep reveals, for which three new chefs are being brought in from India for specialist Indian cuisines.

Manjit and his wife Kanwal keep an eagle eye on the operations and management of the various arms of the company. A devout Sikh, Manjit tells Indian Link about this latest recognition, “It has been the blessings of the Almighty which has allowed us to share our passion with the Australian and Indian community at large. Kanwal and I could not be prouder of the achievements of our boys, and of the full family of Manjit staff.”

“We couldn’t have done it without the team at Manjit’s,” Varun echoes his dad, adding, “and the support of the community.”

The determination in his voice is unmistakable as he adds, “This is but the start of things to come.”

We’re standing by.

About the Chef Hat Awards

The Australian Good Food & Travel Guide (agfg.com.au) was launched in the late 1970s, inspired by the Michelin and Gault Millau guides of Europe, and the first Chef Hats were presented in 1982. Today, the AGFG has grown to become a highly trusted national guide reviewing restaurants across Australia Chef Hats are awarded for the food alone. Typically, the awards are based on judges who dine anonymously and pay full fare, as well as on readers’ votes, although the judging carries more weight. The judges pay particular attention to ingredients, taste, presentation, technique, value and consistency. Inspectors score out of 20, based on the traditional French rating system. (It is believed a score of 20 has never been awarded and a score of 19 is rare).

The Australian Good Food Guide awarded hats to 375 restaurants across the nation this year.

The Terrey Hills based Urban Tadka Indian restaurant has just won its first Chef Hat awarded by the Australian Good Food Guide 2019.

“I’ve been absolutely in awe, ever since I first heard,” Inder Dua, one of the restaurant’s three owners, tells Indian Link

“It was Monday morning, my day off, and I wondered who would be calling at 8.30 am. It was AGFG informing us.”

The sheer responsibility of it all, though, did not take long to set in.

“It was a feeling of elation – that all our hard work had paid off. After the moments of self-congratulation, the feeling of responsibility came on; that we have to maintain this position, continue to stay where we have reached, and indeed, strive to get further.”

Had they been working towards this goal?

“Yes absolutely,” Inder responds immediately. “Since the day we began! It’s a hugely prestigious acknowledgement.”

The restaurant was launched in 2011 by Dimpy Singh and Mandeep Rana, both North Shore restaurateurs with years of local experience, with Inder Dua joining a

The Tadka Boys arrived, quite literally, with a bang, becoming a major player in the restaurant scene from Day One. Today, patrons come from as far afield as Penrith; Indian community events are held here with increasing regularity, and outdoor catering orders have gone through the roof.

As well, the mainstream are thronging in. Visit on any random week night and you’ll see the place filled to near-capacity with school mum groups, local diners, family groups.

“To have attained the Chef Hat, is I think, phenomenal for a restaurant that is only eight years old,” Inder muses. “Remember we were competing with restaurants all across Australia, and from all different cuisines.”

Urban Tadka is among a small subset of Indian restaurants in Sydney that is offering the mainstream a fresh new look at a centuries-old cuisine, repackaging traditional fare with a modern outlook. Here, you have street food of the little towns, with all the sophistication of the large metropolises.

Indian Link’s own menu items of choice

bhare chaman ke tukde, Murgh tikka, Fish kolumbu, Kesari lamb, and the variety of naans on offer.

You will be bowled over by presentation, without doubt, but top marks here for technique as well. It is clear that much attention goes into both.

But there are other considerations as well, such as social media.

“I think social media is such an important element of the restaurant business these days,” Inder reveals. ‘It is true that you eat first with your eye, hence Instagram! But it is also a way of keeping in touch with our patrons. We try and respond to all our comments – even the critical ones, as we try and explain issues to the odd unsatisfied customer.”

And how do they explain to their mainstream patrons what “tadka” means?

“We get asked this constantly,” Inder laughs. “We tell them it’s the final finishing touch in Indian cuisine. The tadka is where all the flavour sits, and which adds that bit of oomph to a dish.”

Here’s hoping there will be extra sizzles to their tadka, post the Chef Hat honour.

WHAT’S ON

REPUBLIC DAY

Consulate General of India event

Sat 26 Jan (9.00am – 10.30am) On the occasion of the 70th Republic Day of India, members of the Indian community are invited for a program that includes flag hoisting ceremony, singing of the national anthem, reading of the speech of the President of India by the Consul General, and cultural performances. Venue Consulate General of India, Level 2 265, Castlereagh Street Sydney.

Details 02 9223 2702.

Republic Day and Australia Day

Sat 26 Jan (6.00pm - 8.00pm)

Team India marks Republic Day with a patriotic theme, including songs, dances, acts, best dress competition, quiz, prizes and kids’ fancy dress competition: come dressed as your favourite freedom fighter. Venue Young St, Parramatta. Details 0470 130 891.

GANDHI JAYANTI

Gandhi memorial ceremony

Wed 6 Feb (5.30- 7.30pm) Annual Gandhi Memorial Ceremony to commemorate India’s Martyrs Day, the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination on 30 January 1948. Followed by the Gandhi Oration at UNSW Sydney. At UNSW Sydney, Gate 11, Botany Street, Library Lawn. Details 02 9385 1515.

Gandhi Oration: Tim Costello

Wed 6 Feb (6.30pm – 7.30pm)

Delivering this year's Gandhi Oration is Chief Advocate of World Vision Australia Tim Costello on ‘How Australians make the world a better and fairer place’. The Oration is delivered by a person making a significant contribution to major human rights issues of our time. At The Roundhouse, UNSW Sydney, Kensington. Details 02 9385 7630.

HOLI

Faag Sammelan

Sat 16 March (7.00pm) Shree

Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Australia invites you to Faag Sammelan 2019 to celebrate Holi. At Natraj Art and Music Centre, 10/71 Kurragong Ave, Mount Druitt 2770. Details 0433 242 077.

STAGE

Counting and Cracking

11 Jan – 2 Feb In this Tamil tale from Sydney, sixteen actors play four generations of a family in a story about Australia as a land of refuge; Sri Lanka’s efforts to remain united; and reconciliation within families, across countries, across generations. An epic story of love and political strife, of home and exile, of parents and children written by S. Shaktidharan, this powerful new play – in its world premiere – is served with a communal meal. Details 1300 856 876 or visit www.sydneyfestival.org.au

Qissebaazi

Fri 1 Feb (7.00pm onwards) to Sat 9 Feb (9.00pm)

Nautanki Theatre Company presents

JANUARY (2) 2019

Qissebaazi, a playful telling of stories.

At T1 Theatre, Building Y3A, Macquarie University, 10 Hadenfeld Ave, Macquarie Park. Details 0432 832 311.

2 to Tango 3 to Jive

Sat 16 Feb (6.00pm) Noted

Bollywood artist Saurabh Shukla presents a Hinglish play starring Shukla with Bollywood actors Achint Kaur, Sadiya Siddiqui and Preeti Mamgain. At Sir John Clancy Auditorium, 9 High St, Kensington. Details 02 9385 1515.

Sri Purandara Dasa Aradhana

Sun 17 Feb (9.15am – 2.00pm)

A program Sri Purandara Dasa Aradhana, that includes arathi and prasadam along with a prayer meet. At Ermington Community Hall, 8 River Road, Ermington. Details 0426 866 135.

COMMUNITY

Chinmaya Health Challenge: No

Shoes Walk

Sun Feb 17 (9.30am – 12.30pm)

Join Swamiji and the Chinmaya family in the health challenge “No Shoes Walk”, to uplift ourselves, challenge, inspire and bring us together while raising funds for those who don’t share our privileges. At Castle Hill Showground, Castle Hill. Details 02 8850 7400.

Bangla Art Exhibition

Sat Feb 9 (6.00pm – 8.00pm)

Performing Arts-Bangla Art Exhibition. Music, dance, poetry recitation and more. At Bankstown Art Centre, 5 Olympic Parade, Bankstown. Details 02 9707 5400.

MISC

Ayurveda

Introducing Ayurveda with Dylan Smith

Sat 2 Feb (4:00 pm – 5:30 pm)

Learn the premise of Ayurveda in an informative talk with Dylan Smith at The Collective Wellness Institute.

Zen Collective, 11J 106 Old Pittwater Rd, Brookvale, NSW

Details 0404 780 249.

Indian Bridal Expo

Sun 3 Feb (10.00am – 2.00pm)

The Indian Bridal Expo is an event to assist couples with all their wedding needs. At Liverpool Catholic Club, 458 Hoxton Park Road, Prestons. Details 0431 005 869.

National Dowry Abuse Summit

Fri 22 Feb (9.30am - 4.30pm)

The 2nd National Dowry Abuse Summit will be held in Sydney at University of NSW, co-hosted by a number of organizations such as NSW Department of Health, AWAVA, White Ribbon Australia. Details email pallavisinha1@hotmail.com

SPIRITUAL

Sant Nirankari Mission Sydney

weekly congregations

Sundays 5:30pm to 7:30pm followed by community meals. Venue: Sant Nirankari Bhawan, 166 Glendenning Road, Glendenning. Details Devinder 0403 216 084.

Free Yoga with Divine Life Society

Tuesdays 7pm Swami

Uditramanandaji of The Divine Life Society of Australia offers free Yoga classes every Tuesday from 7.00pm8.15pm at Strathfield Girls High School. All levels of fitness welcomed. Entrance via Oxford Rd. Details Karo 0413 535 157.

Lunch-time Meditation session

Thu 7 Feb (12.15pm - 1.00pm)

Brahma Kumaris Australia invites you to sit back, relax and be guided through a mind-body relaxation. At Indian Cultural Centre, Level 2 265 Castlereagh Street, Sydney.

FUNDRAISER

Harman Foundation fundraiser

Sat 9 Feb (6.00pm)

Third Annual Fundraising Dinner with a night of fun, food, family and dance to raise funds for Harman Foundation. At Bowman Hall, Blacktown. Details 1800 116 675.

Yaadon ki baraat

Sat 16 March (5.30pm) A fundraising event for AASHA that will regale you with a team of singers and a retro Bollywood night. At Redgum Function Centre, Cnr Lane and Dunmore Street, Wentworthville. Details 0430 026 484.

Celebrate Rotary

Sat 2 March (6.30pm – 10.30pm)

Celebrate Rotary - Be The Inspiration to Light Up Lives through Rotary Global Grant projects to enhance living conditions of the people in the target communities in India and Sri Lanka. At Don Moore Community Centre, Cnr Farnell Ave and North Rocks Road, North Rocks. Details 0419 980 529.

Bhartiye Mandir Sydney

Fundraiser

Sat 9 Feb (7.00pm) A fundraiser to rebuild the temple following vandalism. At 42 Kibo Rd, Regents Park. Details 0419 693 419.

SENIORS

AASHA

Hornsby Every second and fourth Friday of the month, 11.00am –2.00pm. Venue Hornsby Youth and Community Centre, cnr Muriel and Burdett Sts, Hornsby, close to Hornsby Station. Programs feature yoga, music, dance, games, health and tech presentations, health checks and light lunch. Details 0412 786 569 Crows Nest Every third Wednesday of the month, 10.00am 11.30am. Venue 2 Ernest Place, Crows Nest. Social event with free tea. Details 02 9439 5122

ENTERTAINMENT

Dard-e-Disco

Sat 9 Feb (6.00pm) Dard-e-disco with Mueen and Avikalp. At Roma Function Centre, 167 Northumberland St. Liverpool. Details 0434 511 779.

Unity Bollywood Concert 2019 Sat 2 March (7.00pm onwards) This event returns with another impressive line-up of performers including live

music by Sydney’s premier band, Saaz Band Sydney. At The Diamond Showroom, Blacktown Workers Club, 55 Campbell St, Blacktown. Details 0412 779 418.

Sridevi: A tribute

Sun 24 Feb (2.00pm onwards)

Adrian’s Orchestra presents Sridevi Tribute ‘Remembering Roop Ki Rani’, live concert, one show only. At Bowman Hall, 35 Campbell Street, Blacktown. Details 0452 398 299.

Masquerade Love night

Sat 16 Feb (7.00pm onwards)

Choose your most exquisite masks, dress in your finest and dance the night away with your loved one. At The Godfather function centre, Harris Park Parramatta. Details 0423 588 428.

Valentine’s Masquerade Ball

Sat 16 Feb (7.00pm onwards)

Valentines Masquerade Ball & Live Concert at Blacktown Workers Club, 55 Campbell St, Blacktown. Details 0433 676 422.

Sahir Kee Yaden

Fri 22 Feb (7.00pm – 11.00pm) A musical journey of Sahir Ludhianvi. Singers Lalit Bunty Bhatia and Shobha Ingleshwar. At Parra Villa Function Lounge, 42 Campbell St, Parramatta. Details 0412 071 277.

Bollywood Valentine Night

Thu 14 Feb (10.00pm – 2.00am)

Non-stop music with live DJs DJ Ash and DJ Brix, drinks, dancing and more. At Blackbird Cafe – Cockle Bay Wharf, Balcony Level, Cockle Bay Wharf/ Harbour St. Details 0470 315 203.

Srijani Live In Concert Sydney

Sat 9 Feb (6.30pm) Srijani performs live in Sydney. At Pacific Christian School Auditorium, 9 Quarry Rd, Dural. Details 0401 230 046.

Pehla Nasha

Fri 15 Feb (9.00pm onwards)

Celebrate Valentine's Day with your loved one. At Ivy Lounge, Level 2, ivy, 320 George Street, Sydney. Details 02 9240 3000.

Divya Dutta - Me & Ma

Sat 23 Feb (7.00pm onwards)

Divya Dutta in Sydney to launch her new book, Me & Ma. Venue to be announced. Details 0411 314 356.

Valentine's Cruise Party

Fri 15 Feb (8.00pm - 12.30pm) Enjoy a Bollywood style Valentine's Day cruise party. At King St, Wharf 9, Darling Harbour. Details 0412 739 020.

GuptaJi Live

Sat 9 Feb (6.00pm – 10.00pm)

GuptaJi Live in Sydney - Valentine's Special Comedy & DJ Night. At Don Moore Community centre, Carlingford. Details 0422 441 109.

Kool Jodis

Sat 30 March (2.00pm – 9.00pm)

Kool Jodis - Game Show with live music concert with Anand Aravindakshan and Pragathi Guruprasad. At Sydney Sri Durga Devi Devasthanam, 21 Rose Crescent, Regents Park. Details 02 9644 6682.

Cricket for Kerala

BY EMIE ROY

Some 450 members of the Sydney Malayalee Association rocked up together at the recent ODI between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

They were there not only to cheer their team on, but also for another very important reason - to support their cause of gathering funds for the Kerala floods survivors.

With the help of Cricket Australia (CA), they were there to draw attention to the Rise and Restore Carnival that is scheduled for Sat 27 April at the Whitlam Leisure Centre, Liverpool.

Outside the SCG, the Malayalees were in true celebratory spirit with drummers from Indo Oz Rhythms doing the rhythmic

Chendamelam (drumbeats) and dancers grooving to peppy Malayalam number Jimikki Kammal. Spectators stood by fascinated.

The group conveyed the idea of the Carnival to the onlookers through banners, placards and stickers affixed on their colour co-ordinated white tops.

It is believed that this is the first time ever that Cricket Australia has supported a community organisation to raise awareness towards their fundraising efforts within and outside the stadium on the day of a match.

Louise Jeffs, the Group Business Development Manager of Cricket Australia said to Indian Link, “It was great to see the crowds following the performances of this group, and also interacting with them in the pre-match arena. Also, the amount of energy the drummers in the group brought to the stadium was amazing, and we are quite pleased with the genuine interaction that happened with the audience.”

Why did CA choose to support this particular fundraising effort for Kerala’s

flood victims?

“We have been planning to introduce this idea of permitting fundraising groups for some time now. The ‘Rise and Restore Carnival’ to support the survivors of a natural calamity seemed to perfectly align with the idea. In addition to it, it was also relevant to both the countries that were playing, hence this was decided to be the pilot project to be undertaken. Also, the proposal seemed very genuine and well thought out. To be frank, this is the only group we have engaged this summer in the whole of Australia.”

John Jacob, the Secretary of the Sydney Malayalee Association advised, “Providing help to the survivors of the catastrophic floods of Kerala that occurred late last year is a cause that we hold so close to our hearts. Making use of this excellent opportunity given to us by Cricket Australia, we organised some fun-filled activities outside and inside the stadium.”

He was pleased at the amazing reception the initiative received. “It was helpful in

promoting the cause behind it too. Following the many ventures like last year’s vigil at Martin Place, this is a curtain raiser to the fundraising carnival we are organising in association with the Liverpool Council in April. We see Cricket Australia’s kind gesture of allowing us to raise awareness about the carnival to a crowd of 38,000 people as a true and genuine reflection of the multicultural spirit of this country that we all call home”.

It is wonderful to see Sydney’s Keralite community continuing their efforts to help the flood victims back home restore their lives. In an unprecedented disaster in early August 2018, some 500 people lost their lives, and a million people were evacuated from their homes.

If you wish to help with SydMal’s efforts, contact them through their website www.sydmal.com.au or come along to their Rise and Restore Carnival on Sat 27 April.

How Cricket Australia helped Sydney’s Malayalee community raise funds for Kerala flood survivors

Why the Indian Ocean region might soon play a lead role in world affairs

BY CRAIG JEFFREY

In recent days, Australia’s foreign minister Marise Payne announced efforts to strengthen Australia’s involvement in the Indian Ocean region, and the importance of working with India in defence and other activities. Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi - a geopolitical conference co-hosted by the Indian government - Payne said: “Our respective futures are intertwined and heavily dependent on how well we cooperate on the challenges and opportunities in the Indian Ocean in the decades ahead.”

Among Payne’s announcements was A$25 million for a four-year infrastructure program in South Asia (the South Asia Regional Infrastructure Connectivity initiative, or SARIC), which will primarily focus on the transport and energy sectors.

She also pointed to increasing defence activities in the Indian Ocean, noting that in 2014, Australia and India had conducted 11 defence activities together, with the figure reaching 38 in 2018.

Payne’s speech highlights the emergent power of the Indian Ocean region in world affairs. The region comprises the ocean itself and the countries that border it. These include Australia, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Madagascar, Somalia, Tanzania, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

In terms of global political significance, the Atlantic Ocean can be viewed as the ocean of our grandparents and parents; the Pacific Ocean as the ocean of us and our children; and the Indian Ocean as the ocean of our children and grandchildren.

There is an obvious sense in which the region is the future. The average age of people in the region’s countries is under 30, compared to 38 in the US and 46 in Japan. The countries bordering the Indian Ocean are home to 2.5 billion people, which is onethird of the world’s population.

But there is also a strong economic and political logic to spotlighting the Indian Ocean as a key emerging region in world affairs and strategic priority for Australia.

Some 80% of the world’s maritime oil trade flows through three narrow passages of water, known as choke points, in the Indian Ocean. This includes the Strait of Hormuz - located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman - which provides the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean.

The economies of many Indian Ocean countries are expanding rapidly as investors seek new opportunities. Bangladesh, India, Malaysia and Tanzania witnessed economic

growth in excess of 5% in 2017 - well above the global average of 3.2%.

India is the fastest growing major economy in the world. With a population expected to become the world’s largest in the coming decades, it is also the one with the most potential.

Politically, the Indian Ocean is becoming a pivotal zone of strategic competition. China is investing hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure projects across the region as part of its One Belt One Road initiative.

For instance, China gave Kenya a US$3.2 billion loan to construct a 470 kilometre railway (Kenya’s biggest infrastructure project in over 50 years) linking the capital Nairobi to the Indian Ocean port city of Mombasa.

Chinese state-backed firms are also investing in infrastructure and ports in Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Bangladesh. Western powers, including Australia and the United States, have sought to counterbalance China’s growing influence across the region by launching their own infrastructure funds - such as the US$113 million US fund announced last August for digital economy, energy, and infrastructure projects.

In security terms, piracy, unregulated migration, and the continued presence of extremist groups in Somalia, Bangladesh and parts of Indonesia pose significant threats to Indian Ocean countries.

Countries in the region need to collaborate to build economic strength and address geopolitical risks, and there is a logical leadership role for India, being the largest player in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Shangri La Dialogue in June, 2008: “The Indo-Pacific is a natural region. It is also home to a vast array of global opportunities and challenges. I am increasingly convinced with each passing day that the destinies of those of us who live in the region are linked.”

More than previous Indian Prime Ministers, Modi has travelled up and down the east coast of Africa to promote cooperation and strengthen trade and investment ties, and he has articulated strong visions of India-Africa cooperative interest.

Broader groups are also emerging. In 1997, nations bordering the Bay of Bengal established the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multisectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), which works to promote trade links and is currently negotiating a free trade agreement. Australia, along with 21 other border states, is a member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) which seeks to promote sustainable economic growth, trade liberalisation and security.

But, notwithstanding India’s energy and this organisational growth, Indian Ocean cooperation is weak relative to Atlantic and Pacific initiatives.

Australia’s 2017 Foreign Policy White Paper seeks to support IORA in areas such as maritime security and international law. Private organisations, such as the Minderoo Foundation, are doing impressive research - as part of the Flourishing Oceans initiative - on the migration of sea life in an effort to advance environmental sustainability and conservation.

But Australia could focus more on how to promote the Indian Ocean. In Australia’s foreign affairs circles, there used to be a sense Asia stopped at Malta. But it seems the current general understanding of the “IndoPacific” extends west only as far as India.

What this misses - apart from the historical relevance and contemporary economic and political significance of the Indian Ocean region generously defined - is the importance of the ocean itself.

Not just important for trade and ties

If the Ocean was a rainforest, and widely acknowledged as a repository of enormous biodiversity, imagine the uproar at its current

contamination and the clamour around collaborating across all countries bordering the ocean to protect it.

The reefs, mangroves, and marine species that live in the Ocean are under imminent threat. According to some estimates, the Indian Ocean is warming three times faster than the Pacific Ocean.

Overfishing, coastal degradation and pollution are also harming the ocean. This could have catastrophic implications for the tens of millions of fishermen dependent on the region’s marine resources and the enormous population who rely on the Indian Ocean for their protein.

Australia must continue to strengthen its ties in the region - such as with India and Indonesia - and also build new connections, particularly in Africa.

Craig Jeffrey is Director and CEO of the Australia India Institute at the University of Melbourne

This article is republished from The Conversation (theconversation.com/au)

In terms of global political significance, the Atlantic Ocean can be viewed as the ocean of our grandparents and parents; the Pacific Ocean as the ocean of us and our children; and the Indian Ocean as the ocean of our children and grandchildren.

Geopolitical concerns arising from the economy and from maritime security, as well as ecological issues, will spotlight the region

The Indian Ocean touches 28 countries, a third of the world’s population, aggregating an expected 22% of world GDP by 2025 and 16% of global trade

Quiet please!

J Nedunchezhiyan (Ind) & N Monroe (USA)

Tennis Hot Shot Mia Kappadath with her family

RAVINDER SINGH JABBAL captures some Indian links at Australian Open 2019

Top row: FROM LEFT Rohan Bopanna (Ind), Divij Sharan (Ind) , Leander Paes (Ind), Naiktha Bains (Aus)

4फरवरी Baulkham Hills

This program is funded by Central and Eastern Sydney PHN and delivered by Diabetes NSW & ACT.

Five lesser known gems in Thailand

BY SANDIP HOR

When Thailand is talked about in the tourist circle, popular destinations like capital Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Pattaya, Ko Samui and Krabi dominate the conversation. There are however, other striking places in this Asian nation that are unfortunately less known but are no less attractive. Five such are detailed below.

Ayutthaya Around ninety minutes by road from Bangkok, Ayutthaya was one of the greatest cities in Asia during the medieval period. It was founded in 1350 and remained capital of Siam kingdom for over 400 years. With a myriad of palaces, monasteries, Buddhist temples and chedis adorning the landscape, it was then regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Unfortunately, a devastating war with neighbouring Burma in 1767 reduced the city to ruins, which still exist to evoke the splendour of the past. Local Thai people and some outsiders still haunt this wrecked arena for a connection with the kingdom’s hallowed past. Once home to over 400 temples, palaces, stupas and noble houses, only a few so far has been partially restored. While still in ruins, the leftovers of the Grand Palace show the might of the kingdom; Wat Mahatat housed Buddha’s relics, and Wat

Phra Si Sanpet, Wat Yai Chaya Mongkol and Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit demonstrate the architectural ingenuity of the time.

Phrae Tucked into Thailand’s remote north-eastern corner, this riverside walled town was built in the 12th century and well known for beautiful teak mansions, temples and unhurried lifestyle. Influences from neighbouring Laos and Burma are evident in architecture, art, culture and cuisine. There are some twenty temples in the domain, of which Laos style Wat Luang - said to be around 1000 years old - is the first-born and the best. This octagonal stupa is notable for its elephant caryatids. The more recently built Wat Chom Sawan is a teak architectural wonder built in traditional Burmese style. Another very impressive temple is the Wat Phong Sunan, dominated by a gleaming white chedi consisting of 108 spires.

Nan Only 130km north-east from Phrae, Nan is steeped with history since the 13th century when it came under the influence of the Sukothai and Lanna kingdoms. Later in 1558, it surrendered to Burma, and subsequently became a vassal state under Bangkok in 1788. Finally in 1931, it got annexed to the kingdom of Thailand. Surely an off-the-radar of most travellers, but many find this quaint place a gem to relax in the middle of nature while appreciating the traces of the past in local art, culture, cuisine, handicrafts and temple architecture. A must visit is the 1569 Wat Phumin, featuring central golden Buddha faces in

four directions and vivid murals that depict scenes from the lives of the Buddha. Another temple Wat Phra That Chae Haeng is also visit-worthy.

Kanchanaburi Located 130km away from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous ‘Death Railway’ built over a bridge over the Khwae Yai River during WWII, deploying 60,000 Allied Forces prisoners and several locals, most of who died from the hard labour. A museum and cemetery in the quirky town provide a moving testament to the brutal episode, immortalised by the Hollywood movie Bridge on the River Kwai. The surrounding region is a nature lover’s paradise. The magnificent landscape is dotted with pristine national parks, tranquil rivers and charming waterfalls that offer excellent opportunities for fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing, elephant and jungle trekking, complementing the lures from history and culture.

Maeklong Railway Market Markets in Thailand more or less have similar appearance and character. But one that definitely stands out is the Maeklong Railway Market, located 80km south of Bangkok. It’s claimed to be the only market in the world, where a train runs through the middle of it, several times a day. An amazing spectacle to see how swiftly vendors bring down shop awnings and move merchandise upon hearing the horn, giving way to the passing train with less than a foot to spare.

TRAVEL TIPS

Getting there Fly Thai Airways (www.thaiairways.com) from Australia to Bangkok. Nok Air (www.nokair.com) flies to both Phrae and Nan from Bangkok's Don Mueang Airport. Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi are roadtrips from Bangkok and Maeklong is on the way to Kanchanaburi

Stay Rembrandt Hotel (rembrandtbkk.com) in Bangkok, Huern Na Na Boutique Hotel (www.huernnana.com) in Phrae and Wiang Kaew Hotel in Nan.

Ground assistance

Absolute Fantastic Holidays (www. absolutelyfantasticholidays. com)

Clockwise from top left: Wat Phong Sunan in Phrae; the Death Railway in scenic Kanchanaburi; a restored temple in Ayutthya; a daily ritual in Nan; Maeklong Railway Market; in Nan; the bridge on River Kwai

The BUZZ

SOCIETY IN TIME WARP: NAWAZ

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who stars as Saadat Haasan Manto in Manto -- an Indian film that is not getting released in Pakistan -- says society continues to remain stubborn in its reluctance to accept the bitter truth.

According to the talent powerhouse, “We are still living in the same society and stuck in time... That is why what Saadat Hassan Manto faced in his time is still the reality. The problems are still existing and his story is still relevant."

But what about the people who have supported Manto? Sure there are few, the actor agrees, but all of us are really in the minority, he says.

“Those few liberal-minded people are the reason why the world is still a nice place to live in. They are the hope that drives all of us to work with conviction and stand strong for the truth. Otherwise people will just look for an opportunity to kill each other."

The biopic on Manto, released in India in September last year, received tremendous response at the various international festivals it travelled to including Sydney and Melbourne, but ironically not at the Indian box office. The saving grace was the response that poured in once it was released digitally through Netflix.

“I was glad that the film got a great shelf life on Netflix, and we did a good job. We gained confidence," said the actor, who is determined to be part of such stories in future.

Perhaps he was hinting at his next, Thackeray?

PM UNVEILS FIRST CINEMA MUSEUM

WON’T BOW DOWN: KANGANA

We all know what Kangana Ranaut is known and loved for: saying it like it is. She’s not known to back down either. Latest case in point, her tussle against the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, which is threatening protests if her film Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi is not screened for the outfit before theatrical release.

The actress says if they don't stop harassing her, she will "destroy them".

It seems that the group has alleged that the period drama alludes to Rani Laxmibai's relationship with a British officer. The incident brings back

memories from another tug of war between the outfit and Padmaavat which landed in hot water after showing the queen dancing to a special number. They asked the makers of the film to show them the movie before its release.

"Four historians have certified Manikarnika. We have got a censor certificate as well. Karni Sena has been told this but they are continuing to harass me," Kangana said. "If they don't stop then they should know I am also a Rajput and I will destroy each one of them."

Ouch.

Guess who’s talking about films these days? Our dear Prime Minister, that’s who. Narendra Modi recently said that a film is a "silent power" that can quietly influence people to bring about major social changes and boost development in the country.

Well, a little late with the declaration, Mr. Modi, but that’s fine.

"How's the josh?" the PM asked the audience Uri style as he inaugurated India's first National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC) in Mumbai.

Calling movies and society "reflections" of each other, the PM said that “films help integrate our people who speak hundreds of different languages and thousands of dialects, the vastly diverse cultures, boost tourism in a big way and help generate employment opportunities, thus contributing immensely to the nation-building process".

He even named television shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi

and Ramayan among many others that are “becoming popular abroad where people have a desire for a glimpse of the common Indian's life”. Like Kabhie Khushi Kabhi Gham?

Modi praised the new genre of films cropping up, like Toilet: Ek Prem Katha starring Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar that are making a conscious effort to bring about social change, and promised the government's full support to strengthen the film industry.

Well, films have been taking a deep interest in politics these days. It’s nice to see politicos returning the favour!

BEGIN AGAIN… IN BOLLYWOOD

Remember the charming Hollywood flick Begin Again? Seems that it’s now getting a Bollywood remake. The original starring Mark Ruffalo, Keira Knightley and Adam Levine will be helmed by Veere Di Wedding director Shashanka Ghosh. Turns out it’s the unusual storyline that did it for Ghosh. The Hollywood film revolved around a chance encounter between a struggling record-label executive (Ruffalo) and a young singersongwriter (Knightley), new to Manhattan, which turns into a promising collaboration between the two talents.

"We want to tell a story about the world of music and fresh voices in sound on the Indian scene. And through that, a take on urban relationships that don't necessarily mean love and marriage and happily ever after," Ghosh said.

Given that music is the foundation for the original, it would follow that the music for the new film has to be just as impressive? Producer Bhushan Kumar said, "Begin Again will give us an opportunity to create music that is the most important element of the film. The film is still in the writing process but I hope to get together the best of the sound tracks from our musicians to make a unique music album."

Interestingly, since the film is just in its scripting stage, Ghosh hasn’t finalised the cast yet. "We would like to finish the script, and ideally the music, before we cast."

Any ideas on who could make for a

AKSHAY KUMAR

good cast? Our votes go to Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh and perhaps… Shahid?

STAR HOSTS A STAR

Guess who Priyanka Chopra is inviting to be the first guest on her new show on YouTube, If I Could Tell You Just One Thing? The actor has announced that US Olympic gold medallist gymnast Simone Biles will be the first guest on her upcoming YouTube Originals Special.

The idea behind the show, we are told, is that Priyanka will talk to the incredible people she admires. She will ask them to tell her one thing that made them what they are today. Hm. Sounds… interesting?

Apparently, the inspiration for Priyanka was, well, herself. "I realised that it's my curiosity in others that has led me to grow into who I am today. So I decided to feed my curiosity by starting a journey where I will meet some extraordinary people,” says Priyanka. Why Biles, though? "Biles is an amazing guest. I really admire the young girl. She is not only World Champion athlete but also the multiple times Olympic medal winner. What I admire the most about her is resilience and ability to bounce back from anything," added Priyanka.

Well, can’t wait to see what you’ve got for us, Priyanka.

TOO LONG A SILENCE: DIA

The discussion around #MeToo may have

watered down over the last few months, but it hasn’t entirely stopped. Take Dia Mirza, for instance, who recently brought up the topic saying that there’s one reason why sexual predators have not stopped: women’s silence.

At a panel discussion on Harvey Weinstein - The Inside Story, in which she participated with yet another firebrand Swara Bhasker, Dia said, "I feel every woman should watch this film to understand how society functions, especially people in positions of power. More than anything else, it will encourage more women to come forward with their stories because we have long endured a culture of silence.”

She added, "I think because of silence of women, sexual predators have got encouragement."

To make the #MeToo movement a success, the actor said it is important that victims should file an official compliant. "I think for the movement to be successful, it is essential for women to also consider the importance of filing official complaints."

Right you are, Dia. Right you are. But what do you say when one of your fraternity – and someone who’s a “close friend” – comes under the spotlight? Yes, we’re talking about filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani.

It’s the latest name to be called out for sexual harassment with a woman "assistant” while working on Sanju

WHO WORE IT BETTER?

ALIA BHATT OR TIFFANY HADDISH IN PRABAL GURUNG?

+ Share your views with us on our Facebook page /IndianLinkAustralia

Dia said, "He has been a close friend of mine, so to comment on his case will be unfair on my part because I don't know the details. I just want to say that before making an allegation, it's very important to file a complaint with the ICC (Internal Complaints Committee)."

Smart answer?

DON’T RUIN APU, MADHUR!

We all know and love The Apu Trilogy: Pather Panchali, Aparajito and Apur Sansar, Satyajit Ray’s famed works based on the literary works of Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhay that describe the childhood, education and early maturity of a young Bengali named Apu (Apurba Kumar Roy) in the early part of the 20th century.

Well, how would you feel if we were to tell you that Fashion director Madhu Bhandarkar is attempting to make a fourth film to carry on the series? The announcement has ruffled quite a few feathers, even causing an online petition on change.org that reads, “Frequently rated as one of the greatest film series of all time, this series is perfect in every way. Madhur Bhandarkar is trying to make a fourth Apu movie, and I think the government of West Bengal can save us from getting a treasure trove ruined.”

Brutal, what?

ON TWITTER THIS WEEK

Match the tweets to these actors: Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan.

Honoured to be kissing the most stylish man on the planet.. may the style Gods always shine down upon u, my love

My biggest film till date and the 4th one with @aliaa08 . We have worked really hard to not let our fans down. I’m crazy excited for people to see

Was soo looking forward to mom's film @ nofathers_movie. Really hope the CBFC would #lifttheban.

Jaadoo ki Jhappi! Joy to meet the Honourable Prime Minister of our great nation

LAST ISSUE CAPTION CONTEST WINNER

BHUMI PEDNEKAR

DIA MIRZA

PRIYANKA CHOPRA

ASK AUNTYJI

Summer wear selection

DEAR AUNTYJI

I believe that when you move to a new country, you should try to behave like the locals. So here is my story. Aap to jaante hain ki kitna garmi ho rahi hai Sydney mein. This month, it was 45 degrees where we live. To apni gori saheliyon ki tarah, I too decided to wear shorts to go shopping. Auntyji, kya tamasha hua! You would have thought I was walking bilkul nangi through Blacktown shopping centre. All the Indians who passed me did a double take and I even saw two mataji types shaking their sar at me. Every single desi out there mujhe ghoor ghoor ke dekh rahe the. I was pissed off; here I was, minding my own business, and everyone was staring. At me. I mean, all these people coming from India, why do they bring their purani khayalat with them? What should I say to the people who stare at me? Can I tell them off?

AUNTYJI SAYS

Okay so we all know that shaming others is bad and that women should be able to wear whatever they want without others casting aspersions or making them feel bad. Especially in this garmi. Now I have no false illusions

about being politically correct, so I will tell it to you like it is. Suno. We go out in the world, and if we are sensitive and self-aware, we make a point of ensuring that nothing about us causes offence to others. Of course, we can't always predict what might offend others, however there should be some considerations made for what these could be. For example, if you are the size of a haathi, or bhains ki tarah you waddle through Blacktown shopping centre in hot pants, then you know that it's only a matter of time before human nature gets the better of aam log and they will look at you - startled out of their daze at the mere sight of you. And if besharam ki tarah you are swaggering all over Coles, then of course, log dekhenge nah? Now for the asli sawal How do you know people were looking at you? The only way you would know this, is if you were actually looking at others looking at you. Iska mutlab hai ki you must be thinking you are hot stuff, and you are walking around checking out people checking you out. Yeh sub behuda harkat hai. Put on some clothes and stop offending others with your half-naked body. No one wants to see a desi aunty showing her charms in public.

MATRIMONIALS

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Time keeps passing by...

DEAR AUNTYJI

Recently I turned 40 and I am starting to worry that life is going by sooo quickly. Just yesterday it was 2018 and now it's 2019 and soon it will be 2020. I am worried that I won't be able to do all the things I want to do. I’m not having an existential crisis, I am happy with my life - I have a good job, a loving wife, two wonderful children and I like to think I am a kind human being who helps others. But still Auntyji, don't you think that it's shocking how fast life is going? Do you have any tips for how I can stop thinking like this, Auntyji? Half my life is over and I have not done everything I wanted. Please provide some advice.

AUNTYJI SAYS

Sabko ek din marna hai; kyon pareshaan ho rahe hain? The meaning of life is this, my nadaan nasamajh We are born. We do stuff. And then we die. Sometimes if we are lucky, the length of time from janam to maran is long, and sometimes, not so much. But the thing is this. Each day that we are here, we should feel grateful for this

life we are given. We don't come with guarantees that our life will be long - so we should focus on appreciating what we have, rather than what we will lose by time flying. If agle janam mein you don't want to come back as a kutta or ullu or cockroach, to focus kijiye nah on all the good things you can do in the service of others in the short time you have. And yes, I agree that time is flying. As you get older, this is a known thing. But what to do? You can't stop time. You can't avoid dying. The only thing you can do is to focus on the here and now and make each day count. You have lived 40 years. Many have not had that privilege. And you don't know kitne din aur baaki hain! So fill your days with good deeds, serve others and be happy that you rose this morning to see the suraj. At this point, I quote Amitabh Bachchan from Muqqadar Ka Sikander: Zindagi to bewafa hai, ek din thukrayegi; maut mehbooba hai, apne saath lekar jayegi. Amitji is 100% right. Maut go gale lagao like Sikander. That's your only guarantee. Life is a mayaa bewafa. Bewafa se nain kyon lada rahe ho?

fair, jolly nature and a good mix of Indian and modern values. Working in an MNC. Australian citizen. Educated family. Parents well settled. Send details with photo: sydgirl09@gmail.com

Wanted a suitable match for 39 year old Brahmin girl 5’-4’’ fair complexion well settled in Australia having government job and has own residential property. Contact kumar. sham@bigpond.com

SEEKING BRIDES

Indian Muslim man, 43 years old, divorced, lawyer, Australian citizen, based in Sydney, seeking a practising Muslim bride below 35 years of age. Contact: 0424 457 180.

Indian Christian Protestant parents seeking a suitable match for their 38-year-old son, a software engineer, born and brought up in Australia. Seeking Protestant girl between 28 and 34. years. Email: sammy5073@gmail. com or call 0403 836 360.

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Memorial Ceremony

UNSW Library Lawn, UNSW Sydney, Kensington

Wed 6 Feb, 5.15pm – 6pm, Free

Gandhi Oration: Tim Costello

on Justice in Action

The Roundhouse, UNSW Sydney, Kensington

Wed 6 Feb, 6.30pm – 7.30pm, Free

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