2019-06 Sydney (2)

Jayashri Kulkarni, AM

Winita Hardikar, AM

Shashi Kant Kochhar, OAM

Arun Kumar Sharma, AM

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PUBLISHER

Pawan Luthra

EDITOR

Rajni Anand Luthra

DEPUTY EDITOR

Sneha Khale

SOCIAL MEDIA

Suruchi Sehgal

MELBOURNE COORDINATOR

Preeti Jabbal

CONTRIBUTORS

Usha Ramanujam Arvind, Janani Karthik, Vikram Viswanath, Vinaya Rai, Dhanya Samuel, Petra O’Neill, Auntyji

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Shriti Sinha 0410 578 146

ADVERTISING ASSISTANT

Charuta Joshi 02 9279 2004

Indian Link is a fortnightly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Indian Link, may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Opinions carried in Indian Link are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Indian Link. All correspondence should be addressed to:

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Email: info@indianlink.com.au

The intersection of Indian politics and Twitter

BY PAWAN LUTHRA

If recent trends are any indication, the messaging system of Twitter could well shape the way forward for Indian politics for the next decade. PM Modi himself has aced his Twitter game for a while and now his government has recognised this trend and is positioning itself to take advantage of the growing number of users in India and amongst the Indian diaspora globally.

A well-known social commentator recently wrote, “We spend all day communicating, and we’ve invented a myriad of ways to do it. You can buy a stamp, press a button, rent a room or use a microphone. Choose wisely. Find the appropriate medium.”

Twitter allows you to do that in 280 characters or less. Trolls notwithstanding, it allows the sender to control the narrative.

India’s Prime Minister Modi is good at this – he is adept at getting his message across through rallies and gatherings

rather than in-depth interviews with unbiased journalists. Twitter plays out well for him in this story, and he has mastered the art of working through this social media platform.

Just over 10 years since he joined the medium, he has now over 48 million followers - the highest for an Indian, with entertainment stars a fair way behind (Shah Rukh Khan is currently at 38 million and Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan are at 37 million each). Modi is fast closing in on Donald Trump’s 61 million followers but is still way behind Barack Obama’s 106 million. With Indian mobile phone users tipped to be heading towards 829 million by 2022, it is but a matter of time before Modi seriously challenges Obama’s twitter following.

Where PM Modi has been strategic over President Trump is that he has followed over 2,000 accounts compared to Trump’s less than 500. Modi has followed the accounts of world leaders as well as everyday folk, though these are largely his bhakts. This has not only energised his supporters, knowing that the Prime Minister is following them, it also has been an incentive for others to bombard Twitter with all things

laudatory about the BJP and the PM so that they can be included in the tribe. These ‘reward follows’ are a way of building up loyalty. The challenge, of course, is to be sure not to be linked with those who break the barriers of decency.

Recognising the power of Twitter, India’s new Cabinet is being encouraged to tweet more often. And with Twitter now becoming multilingual - Hindi, Tamil for instance - the direct connect with constituents is even more attractive.

The debate however, about whether it is healthy for a democracy to be controlled by Twitter, is valid. Policies and visions delivered in 280 characters do not open them up to scrutiny, as many following Donald Trump have noted. But social media messaging, through WhatsApp and memes and such, are fast taking charge of the conversation. While the top Twitter handle of musician Katy Perry - with 108 million followers - is largely based around entertainment, politicians and world leaders controlling policy conversation directly before such massive numbers online, seems a tad ominous. Could this be the dawn of a technologically super-savvy political era or the harbinger of doom?

YOUR SAY

ADS ON INDIAN TV

Calling all ‘90s kids! This painting has 40 of the most memorable Indian ads hidden in it, including all the classics. We asked if you could spot any. Hints to get you started:1. Wah!

Among many responses, one is worth reproducing here.

Sarang Agarwal wrote: The advertisements are:

1. Amul

2. Brooke Bond Taj Mahal Chai

3. Cadbury Dairy Milk

4. Dhara Oil

5. Liril

6. Nirma

7. Hamara Bajaj

8. Lijjat Papad

9. Fevi Kwik

10. Fevicol

11. VIP Frenchie

12. Britannia Glucose D (Gabbar on Tank)

13. Palmolive (kapil dev shaving)

14. ECE Bulb

15. Onida

16. MRF Zigma Tyres

INDIAN LINK POLL

Baba Ramdev asserted that to curb population, the third child should not be allowed to vote or enjoy facilities provided by the government. Do you agree?

No. These are just disincentives which will not make any difference. (69%)

Yes. These punitive measures would prevent people from giving birth to more children. (31%)

SAY IT AGAIN

17. Vicks

18. Surf (Lalita Ji)

19. Happy Dent

20. Nike (Man Bowling on Bus)

21. Maruti

22. 5 Star (Ramesh Suresh sitting on bench)

23. Coca Cola (Aamir khan ad)

24. Hutch (Child and pug on bridge)

25. Idea (Save the tree)

26. Google Partition ad

27. Vodafone ZooZoo

28. Bournvita

29. Center Shock (Electric barber) / Balbir Pasha ko

AIDS hoga kya (awareness ad)

30. Lifebuoy (Help a child reach 5)

31. Pepsi (Dhoni helicopter shot)

32. Colgate (Suraksha Chakra)

33. Pepsi (Shahrukh pepsi ad)

34. Surf Excel (Daag Acche hai)

35. Airtel Internet (all people on bus)

36. Ariel (Share the load)

37. Madhya Pradesh Tourism

38. Whisper

39. Gillette

40. Asian Paint

#EXCUSES

We asked, what's your excuse for skipping work on the Monday after the Ind V Pak match?

Santoshi Iyer wrote: The Indian team are my brothers form another mother and I need to support them.

Jayakripa wrote: Like PM Modi, I believe in 'nation first' policy and my nation needs me now.

Swati Ramesh wrote: Have actually got a ticket to England from my politician uncle, so will be seeing the match live. Don’t forget to catch me on television.

CJ Prabhakar wrote: Severe stomach upset…

Nirali Oza wrote: My English boss is cricket fanatic and an Indian cricket team fan too so while I still have to rock up to work, I’ll spend lots of time discussing the match with him.

Shivani M Patel wrote: I forgot what day of the week it was.

Rupali Janbandhu wrote: I can only attend this meeting on Monday if it rains in Manchester

WHERE IN INDIA?

The Great Wall of India is the second longest continuous wall on the planet. Readers Rani RJ, Rajiv Gupta, Vipul Chaudhary, JP Oberoi and Rishabha Chitalia Nayak identified it correctly as Kumbhalgarh Fort in Mewar, Rajasthan.

Real actions and meaningful words from people of genuine authority can change behaviour instantly and India's cricket captain Virat Kohli did both of that.

AFL insider Damian Barrett

We both are from INDIA and in this case, AAMCHI MUMBAI as well. So heads I win, tails you lose!

Sachin Tendulkar in response to ICC’s tweet “Sachin in 2003 or Rohit in 2019: who did it better?”

2. Jalebi 3. Sabki Pasand

(Photo Courtesy Vaibhav Vishal)

IND V PAK AT WESTFIELD BLACKTOWN

SHIKHA CHANDRA wrote to us about an unusual cricket experience

Watching the Ind V Pak match of the ICC World Cup will be an experience I will remember for a long time. No, I wasn’t at Old Trafford Manchester but at Westpoint Blacktown, where the match was live streamed at Hoyts until the wee hours of the morning.

What an adventure - cinemas full up, sold out, despite the weatherman’s warning that there could be rain, and despite the fact that a work day morning was to follow. Of course supporters of BOTH teams were there, so the atmosphere was simply electric, with plenty of woohoos and chants going up every so often… yes, matching those of the crowds at the real thing thousands of miles away.

Rohit Sharma’s 140 off 113 balls, Virat Kohli’s expert batting, the bowling warnings to Pakistan and their sloppy fielding, as opposed to the Indian team’s professionalism – yes, even I as a cricket novice marvelled at each of these. The staff at Hoyts were very supportive. They graciously allowed the screening to go for longer thanks to the rain delays. Well done, you guys, for keeping the RSA bar open till 1:30am as well as the food service candy bar.

In between when there was a bit of dead air, they actually put on for us a recent Ajay Devgn release De De Pyar De. Bet the mostly male crowd enjoyed the eye candy on screen: they were all bored playing with their phones but once the movie came on I think relieved that they weren't having to keep themselves busy. Every hour the patronage dropped, even though the demand was high as a few cinemas at Westpoint were running the telecast. Interestingly, people were free to go from cinema to cinema if they wanted. Oh also, a few people caught up the zzzz’s in between!

I was in the last wave to leave at 3.15am, and yet in the morning, as I got the kids ready for school, I caught up on YouTube the bits that we had missed.

CAPTION CONTEST

What’s the chitchat here between Sonam Kapoor and cousin Janhvi Kapoor?

Shivani M Patel wrote: Look how you can reuse your old bedsheets to make evening gowns.

Rani RJ wrote: I have enough in my train, if you want a cover for your top.

Samir Joshi wrote: Short shorts? What’s that?

Saba Nabi wrote: Forget about gym shorts; don’t we look pretty in everything we wear?

Sanjay Khanna wrote: Kapoor(s) & sisters

Anurag Singh wrote: Badi illaichi, choti illaichi

Sonu Sodhi wrote: Jahnvi: Didi, yeh kuch zyada nahi ho gaya?

Sonam: Let them go green with envy

Naveen Rana wrote: Farji

Shubasree Iyer wrote: Bold and beautiful

Amit Soni wrote: Twinkle stars

Dina Shah wrote: Dazzling damsels!

Raghu Rules wrote: Ka 'poor' dress sense

Chirag Sharma wrote: Nepotism

Kala Raghunath wrote: Aur koi pose suggest karo… kya hamesha kamar pe hath aur taang bahar? A tang is a tang is a tang - tumhari ho ya Jolie ji ki.

Rachna Gupta wrote: Come what may we are there for each other. Blood IS thicker than water #familygoals

Raj Saneja wrote: You are not a little girl anymore, Janhvi. Stop counting on fingers and start counting on legs.

Urvashi Arora wrote: Fashionista x 2

Reena Koak wrote: Stop chasing poor Alia Bhatt. We both are awesome examples of nepotism, born to be Bollywood babes. Are you listening, Karan Johar and Kangna Ranaut?

WHO WORE IT BETTER?

WHERE IN OZ?

Which Aussie town has chemicals for street names?

Readers Chitra Iyer and Jillian Abery correctly identified it as Broken Hill NSW.

Last wise words on how to juggle family & business life: “Marry the right person.” Twitter user

@ContentQueenOz quoting Indra Nooyi in Australia

After a dramatic lead-up, India v Pakistan is just another game of cricket.

Opinion writer Geoff Lamon in abc.net.au

QUEEN’S B’DAY HONOURS

FROM ORGAN TRANSPLANTS TO CULTURAL TRANSPLANTATION PROFESSOR

Winita Hardikar, AM

For significant service to medicine, particularly to paediatric liver disease and transplantation

As a junior doctor interested in gastroenterology and liver disease many years ago in Melbourne, Winita Hardikar found a young family in her care. Their baby suffered from biliary atresia, a rare disease of the liver and bile ducts that occurs in infants. Today most such babies would undergo a liver transplant, but back in the early ‘80s, they would simply be put in palliative care, as the doctors had nothing to offer. Most babies survived to two years.

“I was pregnant with my own first child then,” Prof. Hardikar recounted to Indian Link. “The young mum knitted some booties and a hat for my baby. I felt helpless in my inability to do anything for her. When liver transplants began in 1985, I knew I had to get involved.”

Today, Winita Hardikar, one of the country’s leading liver transplant specialists, attends the birthday parties of early patients as they turn into young adults.

In a career spanning 30 years, which has seen multiple transplants, she has won many Special Commendation and Innovation awards, and has produced a treasure trove of research literature. An eponymous syndrome has been named after her: the Hardikar Syndrome is a very rare multiple congenital malformation syndrome characterised by obstructive liver and kidney disease.

She is also credited, along with her colleague Dr Katie Allen, for having performed the first liver cell transplant in Australia. (Less risky than a full transplant, in a liver cell transplant there are no surgical incisions, with liver cells from a donor liver distributed through the liver by blood cells.)

“I’m happy my work has been appreciated, with this AM honour,” Dr Hardikar said. “Yet there’s a lot more to do. Going forward, I hope also to be able to play a more significant role in advocacy with government bodies.”

The Pune-born doctor moved to Australia as a young child and did her

paediatric training at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne before taking a PhD at the University of Melbourne. Then, as a Fulbright scholar, she spent three years at Yale.

She has been Head of Liver and Intestinal Transplantation at the Royal Children’s Hospital since 2013; Director, Gastroenterology and Clinical Nutrition since 2016, and Head of Hepatology since 2003.

What does she feel about the recent reports on racism and sexism in the medical fraternity?

“I’ve never encountered racism; in fact I would say I have been well supported throughout. But sexism, that’s another story. As an intern at Melb Uni I topped

my year in surgery and was keen to get into that field. But a senior surgeon told me straight out, I don’t think women should become surgeons. I didn’t - perhaps because of my cultural background then where we were taught to respect authority. Some of my women friends did get into surgery though. Still, I get to go to theatre a lot in my work!”

Prof. Hardikar has her own words of advice for young people out there who may be considering a career in medicine.

“Do it if you really love it,” she maintained. “It is an all-consuming career: it infringes on your nights, weekends, family life, social life. You take the mental burdens home with you. Don’t do it just because you got the marks for it. And this

is particularly important for parents in our community: don’t push your kids into medicine for prestige - your own, or theirs. Give greater importance to all careers.”

There’s similar counsel for the Indian community in general.

“I agree we come from a rich culture and have so much to offer but we should lose some of the things we were brought up with, such as rote learning, not thinking for ourselves, or saying ‘that’s fate’. I think we should also integrate with others, and not restrict ourselves to our own kind. See another culture, be part of it. There’s a much richer life here that we should make the most of, and contribute to in as many different ways as we can.”

Rajni Anand Luthra

HONOURS

MAKING WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH A PRIORITY

PROFESSOR Jayashri Kulkarni, AM

For significant service to medicine in the field of psychiatry

Professor Jayashri Kulkarni says she is ‘honoured, thrilled and excited’ to receive the Queen’s Birthday honour this year for her work in mental health.

“This award is given to me personally but I see it as a tick of approval for women’s mental health research,” Prof. Kulkarni told Indian Link. “This recognition is also for the team of people that has worked with me in the field. I hope that this recognition will help promote the need for women’s mental health research and attract the funds required to further it.”

Prof. Kulkarni is the founding director of the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc) and is currently a Professor of Psychiatry.

She was instrumental in the opening of the women-only wing at The Alfred Hospital Psychiatry Unit, to prevent sexual assault and violent attacks against women in psychiatric wards.

A proud Monash University alumni, she has also been the Director of Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, Neurosciences & Mental Health Stream.

Early in her career, Prof. Kulkarni established the Dandenong Psychiatric Research Centre, Dandenong hospital.

In 2015, she founded the Australian Consortium for Women's Mental Health.

Prof. Kulkarni strongly feels that women’s mental health should be a national priority, including mental health in pregnancy.

In her own research, she pioneered the use of estrogen as a new treatment in schizophrenia and is considered a leader in the field of reproductive hormones and the critical role they play in women’s mental health.

“Improving women’s mental health is intimately tied to improving their wellbeing and productivity, the next generation’s outcome and the mental health of their family and community," Prof. Kulkarni said. What are some of the issues in women’s mental health that are cause for concern currently?

“Interpersonal violence, particularly violence in early life, and repercussions from brain development that can be impacted adversely and expressed as depression, anxiety and other disorders,” Prof. Kulkarni replied. “Further into the field, women are struggling with second class citizen status and facing disparate

power dynamics and/or poverty that is impacting mental health. In Melbourne, we are campaigning that women experience mental health differently and should be treated differently. There are many areas of women’s mental health crying out for more research.”

Sexual harassment and workplace bullying has also come to the fore in a major way in recent years, she added.

“As immediate past President of the International Association of Women’s Mental Health, I observed the progress of the MeToomovement globally.When it first started I must admit I thought 'this is very wealthy women of Hollywood complaining' but then I looked closely into it and found that this is very serious. The movement has now spread to all parts of the world. The calling out of sexual harassment and bullying in the workplace applies to hospital or factory floors just as much as it does to Hollywood elite. Well done to the Hollywood stars who leveraged their communication skills and public traction to push start a very important process of calling out of practises that are unacceptable.”

Jayashri migrated to Australia with her parents in 1961. Her parents quickly integrated into the Australian community, offering a nurturing upbringing by picking

and choosing from both cultures.

She met her husband Ernie Butler at medical school: today he is Head of Neurology at Peninsula Health. They have two daughters – Rani, a medical defence lawyer, and Surina a Monash University medical student.

Jayashri also likes to maintain connections with her extended family in India and travels often to different parts of the country.

“I find there is an interesting change in thinking in the big cities of India that does not necessarily transfer, in a short space of time, to our migration population here,” she remarked.

According to her there is an overrepresentation of women in the Indian community who experience mental illness.

“A lot of migrant families are raising kids in the beliefs of the culture as it was when they left 35 or 40 years ago from their country of origin,” she observed. “They are frozen in time and this is causing a real schism for the second and third generation kids that need to navigate with the family beliefs and the external western influences surrounding them. This can cause disharmony within the individual and we do see them grappling with depression, anxiety and eating disorders as an expression of this. There are many

fabulous things within our culture like the sense of family, enjoyment and bonding within the community. Also the food, colours, passion, and enthusiasm… but for women, there is still some work to be done.”

As a mentor to many young women researchers and clinicians, Prof. Kulkarni strongly feels that it is important for senior women executives to take on mentorship roles.

“There are many diverse leadership styles for young men to emulate, but there are fewer choices for women as there are not enough senior women in executive positions in certain fields.”

“I often like to say to young women, you do not have to be an honorary man to be a leader,” she said with a smile.

As a Club Melbourne Ambassador, Kulkarni is also looking forward to Melbourne hosting the Women’s Congress for Mental Health in 2021. “Academic tourism is critical to exchange ideas with the world, sharing the state’s expertise, boosting the economy and bringing thought leadership here."

This exceptional leader, mentor and speaker is doing an inspirational job spearheading the advancement of research in women’s mental health.

Preeti Jabbal

QUEEN’S B’DAY HONOURS

INVESTING MORE IN SCIENCE AND TECH

DISTINGUISHED PROF Dharmendra Prakash Sharma, AM

For significant service to higher education, and to computer science

Afew minutes into the conversation with Distinguished Prof. Dharmendra Prakash Sharma, and you know you’re going to learn a lot. Not just about the man himself, who’s the recipient of an AM in this year’s Queen’s Birthday honours, but also about AI, computer science and higher education.

His reaction to receiving the AMsurprise, humility and a dash of excitement for the future. “I’m trying to pinch myself to see if this is real,” was the only ordinary thing this extraordinary gentleman uttered.

“I didn’t realise at first this would be such a huge deal,” he said. “I’m more than surprised by this honour. It’s the perfect shot of oxygen for me to keep pushing at what I do, and to contribute to make the world a better place.”

So how does the Chair of the Academic Board at the University of Canberra and a Hind Rattan Award winner, make the world a better place? The answer is simple: (a) with his actual work and (b) with his attitude towards science, education and humanity.

Born in Fiji after his forefathers moved there 140 years ago, Prof Sharma is a fourth generation Fijian-Indian and exceptionally proud of his Indian heritage.

He’s also equally proud of what Australia has done for him. “I draw a lot of energy from the diversity that Australia offers. I come from a very humble background. I moved to Australia for my post-graduation. The country has allowed me to serve in the education sector for 40 years, provide leadership to my team and contribute to the world around me by making international connections to others in the field,” he said.

That field is computer science, and his key research interests include distributed AI and the applications of AI to human centered modelling and problem solving. Put simply, Prof Sharma’s work involves solving complex, real-world problems with data. He’s not bogged down by alarming reports suggesting 40% of jobs will be lost by 2025. Like all visionaries, he’s cautiously optimistic about the future of AI. “There is some merit to this thought. But the undiscovered potential of AI is vast. The rise of AI doesn’t mean all jobs will be wiped out, it just means that new, more creative jobs will come up. We humans have the power to build this narrative the way we want, as long as we understand where technology is taking us. Understanding that will make humanity more empowered; society will be more technologically savvy and we’ll be able to solve some very difficult problems.”

Take climate change, for instance. With climate deniers refusing to accept scientific evidence, Prof. Sharma realises that the pressure is even more on the scientific community to use data science to address concerns from naysayers. “There will always be deniers,” he observed. “We have to convince them with education. For climate change, political support is needed, but political solutions might not be the answers. Science and education are.

MUSIC KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES

Carnatic music. Thrilled by the OAM honour, Jayashree told Indian Link, “Any award will propel you to work harder and this honour has instilled an all-new confidence in me. Ever since I landed here in Australia I have been working in the field of Carnatic music by performing and teaching the art. I’m indeed happy by this recognition.”

I encourage my students to use science to strengthen their arguments.”

In his role as an educator at multiple universities worldwide (UC; University of South Pacific, Fiji; University of Fiji; Fiji National University), as the founding President and Fellow of the South Pacific and the Australian Computer Societies respectively, as a Fulbright ambassador since 2016 and as the senior member of various institutions and think-tanks, Prof. Sharma has always stressed on the importance of education and of students challenging themselves. He’s especially passionate about the STEM fields, saying, “Worldwide, we’re not investing as much

as we should in science and technology. STEM should have a lot more focus early on in school. But I see the students who come to me, from all over the world, and I’m filled with hope.”

What’s next for Prof Sharma? “This award is just a stepping stone. I’ll continue to be a professor - connect with international colleagues and universities (including many Indian ones) to solve difficult problems, use data science to make the world a better place. I still haven’t achieved everything that I want to. There’s lots to do still, and I’m very excited about the future.”

Sneha Khale

Jayashree Ramachandran, a Carnatic music vocalist, believes that her OAM recognition would motivate her to reach many more milestones in the field of

Jayshree, who is the Vice-President of the Federation of Indian Music and Dance (FIMDV) since 2013, is also the founder of Sapthaswara School of Carnatic Music. The school, which was started with just a handful of students in 1992, is now one of the finest music schools in Melbourne. About this musical journey, Jayashree said, “Thirty years ago, the environment in Australia was challenging for me to

establish the Carnatic music scene as there were only a few Indians here. Also, I was juggling between my Telstra job, family life and music at that time. Slowly but steadily, I made the Telstra job a parttime one and Carnatic music became my full-time career, so that I could give my 100 percent to this art. Our school, which has hundreds of students now, started with just four to five kids. Over a period of time, with many dedicated musical performances across Australia, we were able to inspire many children to learn Carnatic music. We also created avenues to help kids display their talent on stage. From the initial baby steps to now watching our school students perform at three-day concerts, truly it has been a rewarding experience so far.

Despite western music taking centrestage, we have managed to inculcate the love of Carnatic music in our young children. My wish is that out of 100 students, at least 20 consider Carnatic music vocals as their professional career to keep this beautiful art alive in the coming years.”

To help youngsters to understand Carnatic music, Jayashree has been performing thematic concerts, which according to her are being well received by the audiences. About the conceptbased musical performances, she said, “In these thematic presentations, I explain the concept of the song in English and then render songs based on that theme. I have plans to do more such lecture-based musical concerts as they reach out to a wider audience, especially youngsters,

Jayashree Ramachandran, OAM

Recognised for service to the performing arts through Indian music and dance

HONOURS

SMART STRATEGY

PROFESSOR Arun Kumar Sharma, AM

For significant service to computer science and information technology

Alook at the career highlights of Prof. Arun Kumar Sharma makes one wonder why his Australian Government honour did not come sooner.

The Queensland University of Technology’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Innovation) has made many noteworthy contributions in a wide range of areas, as he straddles the worlds of university, research and industry.

“Yes I have tried to (be broad-based),” Prof Sharma told Indian Link. “I’m pleased that this recognition has come my way, and grateful that my contributions are acknowledged.”

In his own area of expertise, ICT, Prof Sharma’s work has significantly impacted Australia’s research and innovation policy. In the early 2000s, as UNSW’s head of the School of Computer Science and Engineering, he co-founded the Cooperative Research Centre for Smart Internet Technology, a seven-year project that linked universities, industry and federal and state governments in the research and development of high-end Internet technologies. The research expertise that arose from the program has paved the way in areas such as ad hoc networks, agent technology, artificial intelligence and data mining.

Also in the early 2000s, Prof. Sharma co-founded and became inaugural Director of National ICT Australia (known then as

NICTA but now a part of CSIRO Data61). The organisation’s role was to pursue potentially significant ICT-related research for the Australian economy.

“To establish cooperative research centres in technology has been rewarding and fulfilling,” Prof. Sharma said.

Taking up his current position at QUT in 2004, Prof. Sharma has focussed on building the university’s research capabilities very successfully. “Our research income has tripled,” he revealed, adding, “We have also increased our research ranking substantially. Particularly satisfying for me has been the expansion of our research and innovation activities in regional areas.”

Sharma has been actively involved in Bluebox (QUT’s innovation, venture and investment company), and in cooperative research centres in a variety of sectors such as diagnostics, construction innovation and integrated engineering asset management.

He also sits on the boards of a number of institutes, again showing a breadth of interest and expertise: children’s medical research, Gallipoli research, sugar research, and has also been on the board

of the Adani Abbot Point Terminal ever since they acquired it in 2011.

About Adani, Prof. Sharma noted, “They want to address the energy needs of India. I hope (the project) will go ahead. They are doing their bit for renewable energy too. I think we need to create a balance in how we look at climate change and economic opportunities.”

Sharma’s particular passion for fostering Australia-India links has been longstanding. He served as national chair of the Australia India Business Council (20112012) and as President of its Queensland chapter (2005-2011).

In 2011, when his university conferred an honorary doctorate on Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, Prof. Sharma may have inadvertently played a role in breaking bilateral tension.

In the wake of the strained relations between India and Australia following the student attacks of 2009-10, Amitabh Bachchan had rejected a university honour from Australia. His acceptance of the QUT honour, engineered by Prof. Sharma, may have helped in its own way to bring

the balance back in the Indian public’s perception of Australia.

Sharma was born in Bihar and studied in Assam and in New Delhi. He took his undergraduate degree at the prestigious BITS Pilani, then a PhD from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a postdoc from MIT.

He moved to Australia in 1991 to work at UNSW.

The move from research and teaching to administration helped him tick off many items on his wish list. “I felt I was able to make a greater contribution by helping build institutions; the impact that I had (as an administrator) was far greater… and it’s been a role I’ve enjoyed.”

What’s in the future for Prof. Sharma?

His brilliant mind is brimming with ideas.

“I hope to undertake projects in renewable energy, going forward. I’m also writing – on the future of tech, and the future of work. I’m also keen to look at more bilateral projects in the IndiaAustralia space.”

Rajni Anand Luthra

who get to know more about their tradition. Currently, I’m doing a lot of research on various topics for these thematic presentations.”

She added, “Right now Carnatic music has been restricted only to the Indian community. I would like to take this artform to the mainstream audience in Australia as music has no boundaries. We have also been performing orchestral ensembles just to reach out to the local audience. My students and I have been performing in many street festivals and cross-culture music festivals to create awareness in the mainstream about the rich cultural heritage of Indian classical music.”

Janani Karthik

QUEEN’S B’DAY HONOURS

WORKING FOR THE CITIZENS OF TOMORROW

Shashi Kant Kochhar, OAM

For service to the community through charitable initiatives

"Respect the people, places and laws of the country you choose to call your home. Try to improve on what’s there, but don’t try to create your old home at your new home.”

These golden words of advice from his father have stayed with Melbourne’s Shashi Kochhar ever since he migrated to Australia from Indiain 1978.

Receiving an OAM in this year’s Queen’s Birthday honours is a huge privilege, according to him.

“It makes me feel humbled, privileged and further motivated to continue doing my community service,” Shashi told Indian Link.

“Each day I wake up more energised to see how my dream of giving back to the community is being fulfilled,” said the septuagenarian.

Shashi laughingly shared how his friends often tell him ‘he is different’.

Some acquaintances even joke about ‘forgetting their wallets at home’; in case Shashi has yet another cause which needs some contribution.

He takes it all in his stride with good humour, because he is on an ongoing mission.

He wants to ensure that the future generation is happy and for that he is

prepared to clean up parks of waste and rubbish, walk miles to raise funds, plant trees, donate blood and stand on streets collecting tin box donations.

As the founder of Friends of Children Foundation, Shashi has helped raise millions of dollars for Monash Children Hospital and Royal Children Hospitals in Melbourne.

Established in 1998, this not-for-profit works with organisations that provide better health and education for the citizens of tomorrow.

Shashi laments the damage caused by parents of his generation, for not teaching their children about looking after the environment.

“We may be living in the lucky country, but we need to look after it and help maintain it. We need to give more to this country that has supported and rewarded us,” he emphasised.

He believes that for communities to prosper and sustain, all young people should be valued, engaged and supported. He strongly encourages people to volunteer in various ways and involve young children to inspire them as good role models.

He walks the talk by leading a cleaning campaign for Clean Up Australia Day every year and organising 24-km charity walks since 2012. He has donated blood over 145 times and delivered bread to aged care, asylum centres and other needy places for years.

With his appointment as Justice of Peace he has plenty of opportunities to contribute by volunteering his services to provide an integral link in the judicial system. As a JP he has signed over 30,000 documents for people till date.

Shashi believes in one god but feels that faith has, somewhere along the years, overpowered cultures.

SERVING FOR EMPOWERMENT

Dr Krishna

to his Indian roots and values. But as this OAM recipient talks about himself, you’ll be amazed at his fascinating life story.

For

Speak to Dr Krishna Nadimpalli, and you’ll agree that what stands out most about him are his humility and his connection

Dr Krishna was born in a remote village in Andhra Pradesh called Gummampadu in West Godavari District. There was no electricity, or even roads, at his village. Yet he overcame the odds and became the first person in his village to complete Year 10. The local school had classes only till Year 5, so he had to walk to a neighbouring village to continue schooling. “In monsoon and in winter, I would take an extra pair of clothes with me to change into, in case I slipped and fell in the mud!”

He failed Year 12 due to lack of guidance and opportunities. But he tried again and passed. He obtained a degree

As current chairperson of the Monash Interfaith gathering he supports collaborative relationships with various faiths and beliefs committed to working towards understanding, respect, peace and dignity.

His passion for community work has been recognised by various awards and recommendations including Sir John Monash Award (Multicultural Champion Category, City of Monash, 2018) and Sir John Monash Community Service Award (City of Monash, 2007).

Abiding by his father’s parting words, Shashi has spent most of his working and retired life ‘paying back’ and showing respect to the society he lives in. The impact of this amazing volunteer is extraordinarily positive: with his compassion, unselfish caring and unconditional love for his fellow human beings, Shashi has gone on to become one of the most loved personalities in Melbourne’s Indian community. The world definitely needs need more of his tribe.

Preeti Jabbal

in Geology from Bimavaram College, and then gained entry to the prestigious IIT Roorkee for a Master’s degree. Krishna worked as a lecturer in Bimavaram College and later as a scientist in Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR).

Continuing in his efforts to do “better”, Dr Krishna did another Masters in Land Ecology from the Netherlands and a PhD in Geoscience from Andhra University.

Dr Nadimpalli moved to Australia in 2000. And if his story so far sounds like the achievement of a determined, selfmade man, then what he has achieved in Australia in less than 20 years, is just as extraordinary.

As an environmental scientist at the

University of Canberra he has worked in the field of disaster management, climate change adaptation, risk assessment and urban planning. But his passion for social inclusion and empowering communities was a constant motivator.

He has actively participated and served the Indian community as well as the multicultural community in Canberra. As President of the Telugu Association, Dr Krishna founded the Federation of Telugu Associations in Australia. He also founded the Telugu School (Telugu Badi) in Canberra and, following up on his love of his mother tongue, has now got National (NAATI) Accreditation for the Telugu language.

Currently he is Chairman of the Canberra Hindu Mandir and Secretary

service to multiculturalism in the Australian Capital Territory

BUILDING CITIES AND COMMUNITIES

PROFESSOR

Mahalingam Sinnathamby, AM

In the early nineties, an enterprising property developer purchased 2860 hectares of bushland near Brisbane that had been beset by planning problems. He set about transforming it into Australia’s largest fully master-planned city, the only other since Canberra. The multi-award winning city is projected to have a population of 138,000 by 2030.

Lobbying various governmental departments over the last three decades to make this vision a reality, Greater Springfield is Malaysia-born and UNSW-trained civil engineer, MahalingamSinnathamby’s dream come true. As a major economic driver, it is also a vision of Australia’s urban future, boasting combined health, education, technology and transport precincts.

Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull rightly described it as a national and nation building project.

“This is not my recognition alone. It has been a twenty six-year journey with eleven schools, three thousand teachers and forty one thousand individuals. When it went to the parliament for approval, eighty-nine members voted unanimously for it. The credit goes to every single person along the way who helped to achieve this vision,” Sinnathamby, who will turn eighty this year, told Indian Link.

As Chairman of the Springfield City Group, he has overseen the single largest planned city built by individuals. The project was awarded World’s Best Master Planned Community by International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI) and Australia’s Best Master Planned Community by Urban Development Institute of Australia. It also won Urban Development Institute of Australia’s National President’s Award as well as Property Council of Australia’s Best Master Planned Community besides numerous state level recognitions.

By creating a master-planned community where people can live, learn, work and play in a city, while fully supported by high quality infrastructure, commercially viable and sustainable development, his goal is to enrich society and make a difference at an individual level.

Outlining the substantial legacy he has helped shape, Sinnathambysaid with great humility,“I owe it to my wife, my business partner and our families. If anything needs recognition, it is the breadth of opportunities this great country offers. With 1.8% of India’s population spread across a country that is two and a half times bigger, Australians have unlimited natural resources, beautiful weather and a stable democratic system, where everyone is equal. What else can we ask for? Seize the opportunity, rise up and aspire for better.”

Despite very humble beginnings, his relentless work ethic and indomitable resilience have seen Sinnathamby stave off failures to become one of the wealthiest people in Australia. A recent publication Stop Not Till Goal Is Reached unpacks his philosophy in life, drawing inspiration from the legendary Swami Vivekanada. He values education above anything else, reiterating its importance at every occasion. “Education is the currency of the future. It is one thing that can be cashed anywhere and at any time. No one can take

it away from you.”

As patron of the Singapore Business Council, former president of Australian Malaysia Business Council and former member, Australia India Business Council, he has lent his business acumen to support emerging entrepreneurs.

He is also a patron of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland and Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (Queensland branch).

Inspired by the philosophy of Sri Ramakrishna and Mahatma Gandhi, he believes in giving. Philanthropy has been a big part of his life, be it to his alma mater, where a number of equity scholarships have been established, or to community groups and cultural organisations. He is a patron of the Vedanta Centre Sydney and a founding patron of its Brisbane chapter.

Exuding positivity at all times, Sinnathamby is an inspirational speaker who believes life’s challenges make one’s destiny. Always emulating simplicity, he is a firm believer that adversity and hardship have ingrained mental toughness in him.

Prior to the Order of Australia recognition, has been conferred with many accolades, including an honorary doctorate from the University of Southern Queensland, Centenary Medal for contribution to Regional Development; 2003 Ernst and Young Master Entrepreneur of the Year (Northern Region), Paul Harris Fellowship from Rotary International, Australian Institute of Management Medal for Management Innovation and the GOPIO International Renowned Entrepreneur Excellence Award.

Usha Ramanujam Arvind

of the Canberra Interfaith Forum, thus not only contributing to his Hindu faith, but making a mark among people of other faiths too. As Chair of the Hindu Mandir, he has successfully lobbied the ACT Government for a larger temple and is in the process of fund-raising for this project.

In addition, Dr Nadimpalli has also been active in the International Mother Language Movement. Cricket, his other love, continues to feature in his life in Australia, such as in organising multicultural cricket tournaments.

What would he say is his proudest achievement?

“I would say, the introduction of the Art of Living Foundation’s PrisonSmart program for the rehabilitation of prisoners in Canberra. My motto is ‘Serving for Empowerment’, and this is what I really

want to do.”

He is grateful to his wife Lakshmi, who supports him fully in all his activities. He has two sons and is soon to be a grandfather.

Talking about his OAM, Dr Krihna chose characteristically to downplay it: I am happy, he said, sounding content.

True humility, one could not help thinking.

Then he said, “It actually inspires me to do more. I have decided to retire and devote my life to community service. First there is the temple to build. But then, my dream is to have Wellness Centres across Australia that deal with mental health issues, cancer and other terminal illnesses, and drug and alcohol addiction. I would like to see a drug-free Australia.”

Vinaya

Rai

For significant service to the building and construction sector, and to the community

India may have witnessed worst-ever summer

India may have experienced its worst-ever summer this year as temperature levels in several cities remained in the severe category for long periods.

The national capital saw mercury tip the 45 degree Celsius mark for many days in the past two weeks touching 48 degree Celsius one day to make it the "hottest ever” day in June.

Churu and Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan saw maximum temperature hovering around 50 degree Celsius in June.

Chandrapur in Maharashtra, Banda in UP and Khargone in MP also experienced a harsh spell of heatwave conditions.

Allahabad registered 48.9 degree Celsius breaking its own 40-year-old record.

A heat wave occurs when temperature remains at 45 degrees Celsius and above for two consecutive days. When the temperature touches 47 degrees, it is marked as "severe."

There have been frequent heat waves over the last few years.

Since 2004, India has seen 11 of the 15 warmest years. Last year was the sixth warmest since 1901, when weather records began to be preserved in the country.

In June, 11 of the 15 hottest places in the world were located in India, the rest were in neighbouring Pakistan, a weather monitoring website reported.

Experts say this is a part of climate change. Environmental activists have suggested that India put in place a plan to tackle heat waves that are costing hundreds of lives every year.

Since 2010, more than 6000 people have died in heat waves in the country, the Lok Sabha was told last year.

Four people died this month due to heat stroke – they were on board the Kerala Express as it passed through Jhansi.

3 in 4 Indians use more than 1 device simultaneously: Study

Three in four adult consumers in India constantly use more than one device simultaneously and spend almost 90 per cent of their workday interacting with devices, an Adobe study found this month.

Switching screens is common in India with 50 per cent of consumers starting an activity on mobile and then switching to a computer, said the study titled "2019 Mobile Marketing Research - India Market".

Switching is most common among male millennials, the research showed.

When faced with the proposition of having their smartphone taken away for two weeks, 39 per cent said it would be a major hassle, while one-third claimed they could not live without their smartphones.

This reaction was more pronounced among millennial consumers, said the study which showed that Indian consumers have developed an increased affinity for smartphones when it comes to all online activities as compared with computers.

Video calling (88 per cent), checking social media (85 per cent) and texting (89 per cent) are among the key activities which Indian consumers prefer to use their mobile devices for as compared to computers.

Smartphones have also emerged as the most preferred medium for all shopping activities with 89 per cent of consumers currently being able to do all the retail activities they want on mobile, showed the findings based on a survey of 1,000 adult consumers in India.

A vast majority of consumers (83 per cent) have a strong preference for using mobile apps over mobile browsers while interacting with a company.

The study revealed that more than half of adults surveyed regularly use voice commands.

"The rapid proliferation of advanced technologies and their increased usage on mobile devices, points to potential new areas for marketers to engage with consumers," said Sunder Madakshira, Head, Marketing, Adobe India.

"Considering the fast consumer adoption of voice tech, we expect to start seeing more brands experimenting with immersive ways of customer engagement over the next few years," Sunder added.

AI, machine learning help shrimp, vegetable farmers reap good harvest

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning have entered aquaculture and agriculture farms in some states benefitting the farmers in cutting down their labour and the uncertainties of trial and error methods.

Thanks to these technologies used by companies like the Chennai-based Coastal Aquaculture Research Institute (CARI) and

Aibono Smart Farming Pvt Ltd, Bengaluru, shrimp and vegetable farmers are able to increase their yield, cut their costs and have better market access.

V. Geetha, who practices aquaculture in Andhra Pradesh, told IANS: "Before signing up for CARI's 'Farm MOJO' - an AI appenabled farm advisor tool - we used to jot down the critical data in a notebook and act on it. But we wouldn't know how much to feed the shrimp. There would either be over or under feeding."

"Apart from risking shrimp health and increasing our feed costs, overfeeding also increases the water cost because quality of water recedes faster than it normally does," said Arul Prakash, an engineering graduate now into aquaculture business in Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu.

Since he tied up with CARI six months back, Prakash said, the company takes care of water quality tests in his pond and all the required data is available on his mobile with suggested action to be taken.

The tool also helps in predicting the chances of a disease outbreak in the client farm based on the data available from other ponds. Currently the company operates 750 ponds spread over Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Odisha, and hopes to expand to 2,500 ponds in the next year.

In agriculture, Bengaluru-based Aibono Smart Farming Pvt Ltd and its AI product are helping the farmers in Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu to match the supply and demand of hill vegetables.

"In India, the land holdings by farmers are small. So, precision farming could be used only if the supply and demand are matched. The other problem is, good price realisation if the yield is good. Farmers do not have a foresight on what to produce and when," Vivek Rajkumar, Founder, told IANS.

Fruit and vegetables are a $250 billion market in India, far bigger than that of fast moving consumer goods. But there are no e-commerce players in this segment.

"Aibono is like a dairy cooperative. It assures farmers of buying every kilogram of their produce at a good price so that they can make money. The average land holding of the farmers in the network ranges between 0.5 to 1.5 acre," Rajkumar said.

"We collect about 2,000 data points like weather, soil tests, photographs etc. Open

Residents of a housing society cool off with a "rain dance" organised to beat the heat on a hot summer day in Greater Noida, outskirts of New Delhi, India, June 15, 2019. Many parts of India are experiencing extreme heat conditions.

farm is like a factory without a roof. It is dynamic. But the farmer's activities are routine and predictable - agronomy has to be changed to dynamic mode," Rajkumar said.

With farmers seeing increasing yield but not commensurate increase in realisation, Aibono decided to look at the demand side and started to study the consumption pattern.

"At the retail end, people buy a fixed quantity of the vegetables. The buying pattern in predictable but it is the supply that varies," Rajkumar said.

"We signed up with retailers and hotels assuring them of supplies. For the farmers, we started calibrating issue of seeds so that the supplies could be assured at certain quantities at a specified time," Rajkumar said.

Aibono works with 500 farmers and has about 200 acres are under active cultivation. Rajkumar said: "We have 300 retailers in our network and next year the number is set to grow. We charge Re 1 per kg as fee for service to the farmers."

India's public Cloud services revenue to grow 24% in 2019

Public Cloud services revenue in India is projected to a total $2.4 billion in 2019 -- an increase of 24.3 per cent from 2018, a new report by Gartner said on 18 June.

The country ranks among the nine nations whose growth rate will be higher than the global average growth rate, third after China (33 per cent) and Indonesia (29 per cent).

"The shift from ‘cloud first' to a ‘cloud only' model is pushing organisations in India to increase their spending on public cloud services to advance their digital business initiatives," Sid Nag, Research Vice President at Gartner, said in a statement. "Disinvestments in new data centres are also one of the early signs of this move."

Meanwhile, aiming to tap newer growth opportunities, business Cloud software firm Infor has just announced a new India Business Unit (IBU) as a separate region that comprises India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

"India has long been a strategic market for Infor - one that is instrumental to the growth of our overall business. With an IPO in the cards, India and other regions need to fire on all cylinders," Charles Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Infor, said in a statement.

"The new IBU is Infor's strategic response to the immense market opportunities

Photo: AP

The northern Indian states of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are currently harvesting a bumper crop of cherries. Thousands of trees have been planted in the region since the mid2000s.

afforded by digital technologies such as Cloud, mobility, artificial intelligence and IoT in accelerating innovation across public and private sectors in India," he added.

India is the company's top two largest locations in the world with over 3,000 people in the region.

Niu Neer coconut delivery app to serve coconut water

Niu Neer, India's first-ever tender coconut delivery service provider, is determined to offer India's beloved nariyal paani with the utmost convenience and consistency.

A classic yet contemporary favourite in India, Niu Neer proposes to put premium quality tender coconuts in the hands of the consumer, a couple of days from the time they are picked.

With services available in Mumbai and Chennai, NiuNeer is building its followers by the thousands with its diverse target audience. From households that traditionally drink the beverage every morning to discerning millennials adopting healthy lifestyles, the company not only aims to provide a service but to ensure a sustainable one as well.

Inspired by the vision to create a consumer revolution, Niu Neer dove into the source of the value chain, reducing numerous layers between the producer and consumer. This enables audiences to avail fresh, homedelivered produce, while simultaneously delivering a fair price to farmers.

"Our goal is not only to provide a seamless service but also to incentivise customers to be responsible to the environment. For every delivery we also collect every shell we sell. We make sure we recycle the shells the customers have returned and have created an innovative and seamless sustainability initiative with these units thereby reducing tons of solid waste to the city of Mumbai," Niu Neer Founder Deepak Ram said.

With business picking up, Niu Neer aims to expand to 5 cities across the next 18 months with Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Pune and Indore on the map.

Bhupen Khakhar’s painting on homosexuality breaks auction record

Two Men in Benares, a 1980s painting by Indian contemporary artist Bhupen Khakhar has set a new auction record for the painter

by selling at a whopping $3.2 million.

The sale took place at the Sotheby’s auction house earlier this month. Going under the hammer was the ‘Coups de Coeur: The Guy and Helen Barbier Family Collection’, an offering of 29 artworks from one of the finest collections of 20th century Indian art in private hands.

When Khakhar (1934-2003) first unveiled

Two Men in Benares in Mumbai in 1986, he became the first Indian artist to freely disclose his sexual orientation through his work.

The painting shows two naked men embracing. It “is the most explicit of what the artist himself called his ‘efforts to come-out in the open’, and to create a new iconography of homosexual love”, Sotheby’s said on their website.

Widely considered among the artist’s best works, the painting later starred in Tate Modern’s 2016 ‘You Can’t Please All’ exhibition of Khakhar’s work, the first retrospective of an Indian artist to be held at the institution, according to Sotheby’s.

Other works of art at the auction included M.F. Husain’s Marathi Women (1950) that sold for $553,146; a rare figurative work by Ram Kumar, Untitled (Man and Woman Holding Hands) painted as a present for the artist’s wife in 1953, sold for $659,960.

The Anatomy of that Old Story (1970) from Rameshwar Broota’s ‘Ape’ series also sold for $537,887.

Ishrat Kanga, Head of Sales at the global auction house said, “These exceptional results are a fitting tribute to the pioneering spirit of Guy and Helen Barbier, who passionately sought out exceptional examples of Indian art at a time when few others thought to.They collected with a ‘coups de coeur’, acquiring works that they truly loved and with a real commitment to discovering and celebrating Indian art.”

Another sale saw Francis Newton Souza’s monumental Untitled painting being sold for $1.5 million. Described by the artist himself as a “probable masterpiece”, the painting tells the Old Testament story of Susanna and the Elders – which has been rendered artistically in Europe, most notably since the European Renaissance.

Indian jewels in focus at Christie's heritage auction Ever since its announcement, Christie's

upcoming auction-- "Maharajas and Mughal Magnificence" - of Indian jewels, gemstones and decorative objects that span over 500 years, has been the talk of the art world and is expected to set some new records.

The "unprecedented group" of objects is from The Al Thani Collection of the royal family of Qatar. It is expected to see competitive bidding from across the globe.

According to Christie's, this collection is poised to be the most valuable auction of jewellery and jewelled objects. The current record is held by The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor, which totals $144 million.

Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's jade hilted dagger, the priceless jewels of the Nizams of Hyderabad, and a string of pearls belonging to Rajmata Gayatri Devi of Jaipur are among the 400 royal artefacts that would be auctioned on 19 June.

"The collection begins in Mughal India, the most important dynasty that ruled the country, which was famous for its emeralds, diamonds, sapphires, rubies, weapons and objects which are bejewelled beyond belief," the auction house said.

"(The sale) traces the history of jewellery from early Mughal India through the Maharajas and their collaborations with the world's most renowned jewellery houses to create some of the most exceptional pieces of jewellery ever made," it added.

The dagger of Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor who commissioned the Taj Mahal, is one of the sale highlights. A Mughal masterpiece, it features scrolling designs inlaid in gold at the top of the blade, and an inscription in ‘Nastaliq' script with a title the monarch had taken. It is estimated to fetch between $1,500,000 and $2,500,000.

The collection also has 'sarpechs' (turban ornaments), necklaces such as a diamond riviere necklace originally from the collection of the Nizam of Hyderabad, 33 Golconda diamonds (estimated between $1,200,000 and $1,500,000), and the Nizam of Hyderabad's diamond encrusted ceremonial sword, set with diamonds, rubies and emeralds ($1,000,000-$1,500,000).

Also featured are carved Mughal emeralds, jewelled boxes, the famed ‘Arcot II' diamond, presented to Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, by Muhammad Ali Wallajah Nawab of Arcot, and the magnificent ‘Mirror of Paradise' D colour Internally Flawless

Golconda diamond.

An 18th century gold finial from the throne of Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan would go under the hammer as well. Set with diamonds, rubies and emeralds, the marble plinth with gilt metal fittings is one of eight finials that ornamented the gold throne of Tipu Sultan. Following his defeat at the hands of the British in the battle of Seringapatam (1799), the throne was dismantled and its components were dispersed.

The Patiala Ruby Choker created by Cartier in 1931 is an example of the fusion between India and the West. It was commissioned by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala and is on sale. Another carved emerald brooch, and interchangeable 'Jigha' turban mounting depicts Lord Rama, Sita and Hanuman.

Another offering, the Enamel and Diamond Peacock Aigrette by Melleriodits Meller, was purchased by Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala in 1905 in Paris.

A natural pearl and diamond necklace of Rajmata Gayatri Devi, wife of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II of Jaipur, is on offer as well.

Amitav Ghosh conferred with Jnanpith award

Renowned author Amitav Ghosh was awarded the 54th Jnanpith Award for his contribution to the enrichment of Indian literature this month.

The award consists of a shawl, citation, statue of goddess Saraswati and Rs 11 lakh.

Amitav Ghosh is the first English writer to get this prestigious award.

Speaking about the dominance of the English language which is a concern to writers who write in other languages, Ghosh said despite writing in English, he fully shares the concern, but pointed out that languages in India flow and mingle with each other. Ghosh’s books typically address issues of dislocation, migration, and movement.

A day after receiving the award, Ghosh launched his new book Gun Island - this time based on the global refugee crisis.

In 2004, his sixth novel, The Hungry Tide, which focused exclusively on the Sunderbans through issues like humanism and environmentalism, won the Hutch Crossword Book Award for Fiction. He won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1990 for The Shadow Lines. His 2012 book River of Smoke was shortlisted for the Man Booker Asian Prize.

He received the Padma Shri in 2007. IANS

Photo: AP

VIEWFINDER

BY VIKRAM

I love cityscapes and shooting at night, and Sydney during Vivid is absolutely spectacular - the contrast of the of Vivid can also be quite technically challenging for night photography. The constant play and movement of lights capture the colours. Camping out at Milsons Point/Kirribilli on a cold winter Shot on a Sony A7III, with

VIEWFINDER

the normal city just before the lights come on, to the moments just after, is like night and day. Yet taking pictures lights mean that you can't just set a long exposure time and wait - you have to time and set things just right to winter evening seems worth it though, when you capture a scene like this one. a Zeiss 24-70mm F4 lens.

WHAT’S ON

FESTIVAL

Rath Yatra

Sat 6 July (10.00am onwards)

ISKCON and Liverpool City Council present Festival of the Chariots. Street parade starts from Bigge St Liverpool near Railway Station. Also featuring cultural show and free vegetarian food.

Details Goverdhan 0411 952 551.

EXHIBITION

Archibald Prize 2019

Upto 8 Sep Check out Australia’s most extraordinary art event that awards the best portrait artists for their paintings. South Asian artist Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran and Young Archie finalists Lakshman Nitish Ramesh and Anupama

Pangeni are hung in this year’s event. Also hung is a lovely portrait of iconic restaurateur Anant Singh who opened the famous Jasmin restaurant in Adelaide in 1980.

Venue: Art Gallery Rd, Sydney NSW 2000. Details 1800 679 278.

STAGE

Ankit Tiwari Live In Concert

Sun 30 June (7.00pm onwards)

The Bollywood playback singer, whose songs include hits like Galliyan and Sunn Raha Hain , is touring Australia. His Sydney concert is at Whitlam Leisure Centre, 90A Memorial Avenue, Liverpool. Details 0452 337 387.

SEMINAR

Innovate India

Wed 26 June (5:30 pm - 8:30 pm) UNSW Global Founders and Haymarket HQ present an informative night on how Australian start-ups are investing, innovating and imagining in India.

Speakers include Ram Gorlamandala (Co-founder & Director, Tat Capital), Pras Indrakumar (Co-founder & Director, Tat Capital), Abdul Ekram (Manager, International Health, Austrade).

Venue: Haymarket HQ, #2, 63 Dixon St, Haymarket. Details www.founders.unsw.edu.au

WORKSHOPS

Vegan Indian Cooking Class

Sun 23 June (10:00 am - 1:00 pm)

Lalitha Satya of Mum's Indian Kitchen presents the next cooking class at 4 Martha Crescent, Cranebrook.

Details 0424 840 165

Tasting India with Christine Manfield

Thurs 27 June (6:00pm - 8:00pm) and Wed 3 July (6.00pm - 8.00pm)

Acclaimed chef, writer, traveler, author, mentor, food manufacturer, presenter, philanthropist and promoter Christine Manfield will take you on a journey through modern India, with a menu inspired by her travels and recently rereleased book, Tasting India. Location: Simon Johnson Alexandria, 24A Ralph St, Alexandria, NSW.

Details 02 8244 8288

Garden to Table: Indian Cuisine by Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living

Sat 29 June (12.00 noon - 3.00pm)

In this sustainable workshop funded by Campbelltown City Council, chef Gerry will prepare some classic Indian recipes including tandoori and korma dishes as well as coconut based curries and seafood, all with the idea to reduce and avoid food waste and packaging. Venue: Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living, 1 Mount Annan Drive, Mount Annan, NSW 2567.

Details 02 4647 9828.

The Art of Chai

Wed 3 July (6.00pm onwards)

Uppma Virdi of Chai Walli fame presents a 1.5-hour workshop on the culture, taste, ingredients and brewing methods of Indian chai. Venue: 44 Edward St, Warehouse #4, Summer Hill. Details chaiwalli.com.au

MISC

support and raise awareness of the Asha Society in Delhi, India. Join Dr Kiran Martin, Founder and Director of the Asha Society, to learn more about the outstanding long-term, positive changes made possible by philanthropy. Venue: Manjit’s at the Wharf, #10, 49 Lime St, Sydney. Details Corinne Hoveling 02 8644 9514.

SENIORS

Tech savvy seniors

Tech Savvy Seniors program aims to help seniors with little or no digital experience develop skills and confidence in using technology for socialising, accessing services or conducting personal business. Training is fun and hands-on, and includes basic introductory courses on using computers, tablets, smart phones, the internet, email and social media.

Mon 24 June Introduction to Social Media Part 1

At Guildford Library, Railway Terrace, Guildford. Details 02 87579063

Wed 26 June Introduction to Email Part 1

At Glenquarie Library, 12 Brooks St, Macquarie Fields. Details 02 46454055.

YOGA DAY EVENTS

5th International Day of Yoga

Fri 21 June (10.00am – 1.00pm)

The Consulate General of India (Sydney) invites you to a morning of Yoga at its Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Level 2, 265 Castlereagh St, Sydney. RSVP to library.sydney@mea.gov.in

4B Neptune Street

Coogee (9:00 am - 10:15am and 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm) and at Bondi Pavillion in Bondi (6:30 pm730 pm). Yoga and Meditation at the iconic Bondi Pavillion in Bondi. Details Rachel Mason: 0402 686 063.

YOGA AND MEDITATION

Lunch-time yoga and meditation

Mondays Art of Living Sydney presents free lunch-time Yoga sessions from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm at Level 2, 265 Castlereagh Street, Sydney.

Thursdays The Brahma Kumaris

Australia present meditation sessions from 12.15pm - 1.00pm at the Indian Cultural Centre, Level 2, 265 Castlereagh Street, Sydney. Details 02 9223 2702. Register at icc2.sydney@mea.gov.in

Yoga at Spirit of India

Saturdays and Sundays , 15-week Yoga course. Also check out special yoga classes for children (5-12 years), adults and senior citizens (55 plus). Venues at Wentworthville, Quakers Hill, Pennant Hills, Auburn, Epping, Homebush, Ryde.

Free Yoga class every Wednesday (5.30pm - 7.00pm) at Indian Consulate Cultural Centre, Level 2, 265 Castlereagh St, Sydney. Free meditation every Saturday (8.30am - 9.15am) at Wentworthville.

Details www.spiritofindia.org or call Suresh 0412 202 182 or Raja 0402 789 109.

Tribute to Girish Karnad

Sun 30 June (3.30pm onwards)

Anivaasi Arts Collective presents an evening in honour of writer and thespian Girish Karnad. Listen to talks by Tom Cowan (cameraman for Samskara) and arts writer Sydney Srinivas, live music from Karnad’s films, play reading and video screenings. Venue: Toongabbie East Public School, Harris Rd, Wentworthville.

Details 0414 992 528.

In memory of a beautiful little soul: Blood donation campaign

The Sydney-based Kaushik family are commemorating the brief life of their daughter Vanhi (16 April 2013 - 09 July 2015) who fought bravely against leukaemia by asking the community to join them in their blood donation campaign for Red Cross. Join their campaign ‘Vanhi the Smiling Star’s Red 25’ either by registering online (https://www. donateblood.com.au/red25) or by calling 131 495. Details Vishal and Nidhi Kaushik on 0433 823 668.

FUNDRAISER

Australian Friends of Asha - Hope Charity Dinner

Thur 27 June (6:30 pm - 10:30 pm)

Australian Friends of Asha works to

Meditation Music and Kirtan Chanting

Sat 22 June (5:30 pm - 8:30 pm)

Yoga in Daily Life Sydney presents an evening of spiritual music, played on Indian bamboo flute (Bansuri) and Japanese Shakuhachi flutes, kirtan chanting and bhajan singing, led by Swami Madhuram.

Venue: 206 Woodville Road Merrylands.

Details yogaindailylife.org.au/Sydney

Unite with Yoga

Sat 22 June (11:00 am - 1:00 pm) SRMD Australia / Art of Living and Consulate General of India, Sydney present a special event to "create peace within to bring peace to others". Special feature includes family friendly yoga on the Sydney harbour front. T-shirts and light refreshments, face painting, mehendi, photo booth and other fun-filled activities.

Venue: Bradfield Park, Alfred Street South, Milsons Point.

Details Bijal Ghelani 0416 302 101

Yoga and Meditation

By The Ocean

Fri 21 June Yogarama Retreats

marks International Day of Yoga with special events at Wylie's Baths,

Sahaja Yoga: Music and Meditation

Free sessions at multiple venues across Sydney. Details www.sahajayoga.com.au

SPIRITUAL

Chinmaya Mission

Australia events

Saturdays Family programs (Balvihar classes) at Eastwood (3.00pm - 4.15pm) and at Strathfield (4.45pm - 6.00pm).

Details Chinmaya Sannidhi 02 8850 7400, 0416 482 149.

3-7 July Swami Shrikarananda presents a series of talks entitled ‘Gateway to the Soul’ based on Bhagavad Gita’s Chapter 13.

Venue: Chinmaya Sannidhi, 38 Carringtom Rd, Castle Hill.

Details 0411 899 554 17 - 18 July (8.00am - 5.00pm daily) Swami Shrikarananda presents the program "Be fearless". Details Chinmaya Mission 0416 482 149

Sant Nirankari Mission Sydney weekly congregations

Sundays (5:30pm - 7:30pm) followed by community meals.

Venue: Sant Nirankari Bhawan, 166 Glendenning Road, Glendenning. Details Devinder 0403 216 084.

Encouraging men to be brave enough to be vulnerable

BY MOHAN DHALL

The predictability and focus required for daily life can act as a distractor from attending to things that, if not attended to, can shake us, break us, unmake and remake us. The life changing experiences of Vik and Bhavisha Bhandari have been instructive in finding a balance between the things that are necessary for daily living and those that are needed for a healthy life.

When Vik’s father had a stoke leaving him partially paralysed Vik was profoundly shocked and shaken. Prior to that, Bhavisha’s uncle suffered a massive heart attack and died there and then at work. These sudden unexpected events led the Bhandaris to look at risk factors for these and other illnesses such as bowel and prostate cancer. The risk factors causing stroke and heart attack, such as high blood pressure, unhealthy diet and lack of exercise, are commonly known, however early detection and regular screening can prevent a disaster.

What the Bhandaris discovered alarmed them: men are particularly reluctant to seek medical help or advice despite facing serious risks and possible early death by not doing so. Too often men say, “I am too busy”, “I will sort it out later” or “It’ll be alright” and prioritise other things such as work over their health. The statistics are stark in this regard: Every 12 minutes an Australian dies from heart, stroke or blood vessel disease. Most heart attacks and strokes are preventable.

The Bhandaris realised that men do not ask themselves basic health questions, do not follow up with their doctors when they have health doubts or concerns, and do not take preventative actions such as annual health check-ups. Men need to be brave enough and focused enough to be vulnerable.

They set up the Men’s Health Awareness Ball to act as a vehicle for raising awareness about the need for men to be proactive about their health, whilst also raising charityspecific funds. The Ball encourages men to:

l get a regular/annual health check-up;

l know and understand their key numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol etc);

l familiarise themselves with their family’s medical history;

l take prompt action for any health or other concerns; and

l build a rapport with their General Practitioner/Doctor.

The third such ball in four years, was held recently, the first two having raised nearly $74,000. The 2019 Ball raised $70,000 for the Jodi Lee Foundation (Bowel Cancer) and The Heart Foundation. A further $10,000 was donated to Check My Tacklea charity raising awareness, creating a sense of support and community and educating people on penile, testicular, anal and male breast cancer.

The guest speakers at the 2019 Ball brought many messages of inspiration. The medical speaker, Dr Margaret Redelman OAM gave an educational talk on men’s sexual health, whilst the Vivid fireworks in the background added lightness and humour to a serious topic.

Hugo Toovey, an Australian Army Captain, recounted his struggles with both testicular and bowel cancer, the latter coming only two months after being classified as in complete remission from the former. His life after the first diagnosis was characterised by months of chemotherapy and major surgery to remove all abdominal lymph nodes. His second cancer, which he is still being treated for, resulted in him losing part of his colon.

He said of his treatment, “There was no light at the end of the tunnel. There was no light and there was no tunnel. Just an unknown space.” Hugo was unsure whether to celebrate his luck at surviving or dread each new day. He is only 26 years old.

He said, “Life is precious. Don’t take it for granted”. He urged men to get an annual health check. You are never too young to visit a doctor regularly.

Keith Broadfoot, a qualified CPA accountant, another inspirational speaker, had suffered a heart attack despite being extremely fit and competing in triathlons. Thinking he was “bulletproof” it never occurred to him that he could have heart disease or even high cholestrol. He encouraged all men to have an annual health check-up as well.

Vik Bhandari said, “Whilst it is important and necessary to raise money for charities, the central message is that men must not

neglect their health. The message of getting an annual health check and building a rapport with your doctor is just as important.”

He also gave a very important message to men in the ex-pat Indian community, noting that as they focus on work and building community, they can do so at the cost of their own health. He said, “Indians are at the risky end – eating fried food, not exercising, and genetically being at higher risk for diseases such as stroke, heart attack and also diabetes. Yet, they take the least interest in their health.”

The gala event, very well attended and extremely well catered for, was opened with a video message from Ita Buttrose, AC, OBE. TV personality James Kerley, acted as MC. The Vivid celebration of life backgrounded the serious messages and the urgings for men to focus on their own health: don’t wait until it is too late.

In Men’s Health Week (10-16 June), men are encouraged to take proactive steps towards their own well-being

Get an annual health check.

You are never too young to visit a doctor regularly.

Hugo Toovey

James and Margaret Redelman

Keith Broadfoot

Vik and Bhavisha Bhandari with volunteers

BY USHA RAMANUJAM ARVIND

All the world’s a stage, believes Sagarika Venkat, who is determined to be one of its rising stars.

Doubly blessed to have her mother as guru, she quite literally grew up at Rasika Dance Academy, soaking in sights and sounds of Bharatanatyam at every step while beginning to appreciate its complex nuances. Ascending the stage for her salangaipooja, a debut solo performance, was therefore not just a natural progression but also her innermost aspiration.

The show entitled Swapnam: My Dreams demonstrated the nine-year-old’s resolve to take her dance education seriously and prove her mettle.

“I live, breathe and enjoy dance,” Sagarika says. “Even if I am doing nothing, say waiting at a supermarket, I dance. When I attend a rehearsal or concert, I dance along. Dance means the world. It is everything to me.”

Those gathered at the Redgum Centre recently for the special event, were blown away by her talent, stamina and ability. The maturity and discipline exhibited by the debutante as well as the sheer scale and scope of the evening’s showcase left them with little doubt on what the future holds for this young dancer.

“I clearly underestimated her potential and miscalculated her abilities,” confessed Guru Manjula Viswanath, after the performance.

The promising student, who was absorbing concepts, emotions and movements effortlessly, only began preparations for the event earlier this year. Browsing the web for mythological tales, particularly the animated versions, has always been a happy pastime, fuelling her imagination in the process.

Sagarika relished every moment on the stage as she delivered a flawless performance. Each segment struck a happy balance between strong thematic content, effective storytelling and technical proficiency that normally come with years of dedication. The live orchestra comprising Balasubramanya Sharma (vocal), Janakan Suthanthiraraj (mrudangam), Kiran Mudigonda (violin), Jeyaram Jegatheesan (rhythm pad) and Devagi Vignesh (flute) offered the young danseuse with perfect musical support. The stage effects and costumes added drama and vibrancy to the unfolding tales.

Sagarika began with a rangageethe in thilang (‘Gajavadana Hey Ramba’), a unique pushpanjali to Lord Ganesha, incorporating sanchaaris choreographed by the danseuse herself. The shuddhanritham piece that ensued paid respect to Thanjavur Quartet.

Varnam, the highpoint of any Bharatanatyam recital, showed off her storytelling skills, with the grueling piece that lasted forty minutes also

The beginning of a very long journey

Nine-year-old shows all the markings of a dance prodigy

testing her technique and stamina. ‘Swami Naan UndhanAdimai’ was also Sagarika’sfavourite. “I liked it because the lyrics were touching but also because it is based on the Lord of Dance, Shiva. I got a chance to portray so many characters and also become the storyteller. I loved the as I feel very energetic

Incorporating four elaborate sancharis, she began with story of Kannappa Naayanaar, who unquestioningly gouges his own eyes as a token of supreme sacrifice. This was followed by a tribute to Ardhanaareeshwara, incorporating Prakriti and . Markandeya and his tryst with destiny came next. Sagarika thereafter explored the tale of Nandanar, Dalit saint

Gopalakrishna Bharathi’s ‘Thaa Thai Endru Aaduvaar’ celebrated the cosmic attributes of Lord Nataraja while illustrating her mastery over postures and body control. The best however, was yet to come.

Showing no signs of fatigue or stage weariness, Sagarika narrated at length some of the finest moments from Ramayana, with the nattuvangam putting

her through complex jathis. The standout ‘Pibare Raamarasam’ examined the beautiful sacrifice of Jataayu Moksham. The image of Jatayu flapping his wings valiantly in defence of Seeta till he drew his last breath in the lap of Rama was etched in our memories. Frame after frame unfolded through subtle emoting and complex footwork. “I loved playing Jatayu and Raavana as both characters are so powerful,” Sagarika recounted.

‘Bhaje Mrudang’, the peppy Abhang, added variety to the tableau in a joyous celebration of life. The rich layering of thillaana in ‘Nalinakanthi’, specially composed for the occasion was clearly intended to challenge her, closing with beautiful saahithyam. Sagarika concluded the evening with ‘Mahalakshmi Ashtotram Namastestu Mahaamaayee’.

As the curtains came down on a stellar performance, proud parents Manjula and Venkat Parthasarathy were clearly overwhelmed by emotion. “This is only the beginning of a very long journey. She has set high standards for herself and we will support her in every possible way,” they reiterated.

Dance has given Sagarika early lessons in the fine art of multitasking. “Initially, I found it hard to manage school work and dance classes. But I want to excel in both, so I have learnt how to time manage,” she said. “Since I have my OC exam coming up, I can practice for it with more time and study without sweat dripping on my page.”

International performances will continue as Sagarika heads to China in July, Malaysia in December as well as Bangalore and Chennai in January for the kacheri season.

A daring intellectual

BY VINAYA RAI

that’s how I got hooked into watching some of

My father said I should watch Kannada Vamsha Vriksha. Mum and he had read the books on which these movies were based, and often discussed them. I looked out for the movies to be rereleased or broadcast and watched them. which Girish Karnad codirected and acted in, really impressed me. At 16 or 17, I was asked if I wanted to be part of an experimental play. Of course, I said yes. It is that age at which you want to savour

Today I can’t even remember the name of the play but what I do remember is that a newcomer had written it and was the main actor. Directing it, was none other than Girish Karnad. Karnad was probably the writer’s mentor as the play was based on the Ramayana but had a different take on it. Very Karnad-esque! I rememberthe vibrancy and energy during rehearsals, the exchange of ideas, and experimenting with different ways of doing things on stage. And Karnad’s impressive

Since I had a miniscule part, I had plenty of time to sit around at rehearsals and observe Karnad giving direction and suggestions. He had supreme confidence and very definite ideas, but would still listen to others. In fact, his theatre friends would come to rehearsals and they would freely offer their suggestions. It was wonderful to see and hear the opinions of people like Girish Kasaravalli and B Jayashree, even B.V. Karanth came once. These were huge names in the Kannada theatre world and little me just sat there agog watching them at work, critiquing everything from stage décor to lighting to the direction. I, who had no connection to theatre until then, was suddenly revolving in the same

Around the same time, Dad took me to

watch Hayavadana, one of Karnad’s plays. Again I don’t remember much of the play and I don’t think I understood much of it, but just the glamour of having gone to a Karnad play was enough to keep me on a cloud for days!!

Writer Vir Sanghvi said in his Twitter tribute, “Can you think of anyone else who could become President of the Oxford Union, could then come back & write brilliant plays in Kannada, could direct art films and also act in Salman Khan movies?”

Can you?!! Karnad went to Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. He studied mathematics and economics, but chose arts and literature as his career. He wrote in Kannada, which he called his “acquired mother tongue”. Still at Oxford, he wrote the play Yayati (in 1961) at the age of 23. It was still being staged in Bangalore in 2012 /13, and probably still is. Karnad himself translated it into English in 2007, I believe.

His plays are mostly based on mythology or history but he would relate it to contemporary issues and ideas. However, Odakalu Bimba, it is said, was about the choice of language for writers and how it affected their world view. This was also the first play in which Karnad did not draw from mythology or history.

Karnad straddled many spheres: he was a film maker, director, actor, activist, administrator and many other things. But I will always remember him as a playwright and director.

And the image that will stay with me forever is the image of him - with oxygen tubes attached - protesting on the streets of Bangalore when journalist Gauri Lankesh was killed.

Not only was he an intellectual, he was a daring intellectual.

As a BBC journalist said, and I quote, the curtain has come down, but the rehearsals will go on. Karnad's words and images will stay.

How an early Girish Karnad encounter led to a lifelong interest in the arts

Girish Karnad (19 May 1938 – 10 June 2019)

Loving right now

A list of Indian Link’s current favourites

READ

Good Talk, a graphic memoir by Indian-American author Mira Jacob is the kind of hilarious and heart-wrenching book that tackles difficult, complicated topics with levity, humour and vulnerability. The inspiration for the memoir came to Jacob, whose debut novel was the highly-acclaimed The Sleepwalker’s Guide to Dancing, from questions that her inquisitive six-year old half-Jewish, half-Indian son Zakir, started asking her after the 2016 US Presidential elections – questions about race, colour, sexuality and love. Good Talk is great reading for people of all ages, and a must-read in the post-Trumpian world.

LISTEN

Culture, identity, a new home, chaos – it’s a struggle that all migrants can identify with. Isha Soni, a proud desi and Mumbaikar, left home 5 years ago and has been on the move since then, living in different countries, different cities and different homes. Culture Chaos: Stories of An Indian Abroad is a podcast about her life abroad; episodes discuss topics like why desis should care about gun control in the US, and why we often use shorter (easy to pronounce) versions of our names at coffee shops. Give it a listen!

EAT

Experience the true taste of South Indian filter coffee with Malgudi Days, a premium specialty South Indian Coffee, roasted and blended in Australia. This award winning filter coffee blend was born out of a son’s desire to gift his mother with an authentic taste of her ancestral home right here in Sydney. Named after his mum’s favourite book, Malgudi Days is all about incorporating Indian culture into the modern day Australian narrative. And the best way to make it – using the traditional South Indian filter method and served in stainless steel dabaras

WATCH

Notorious for being India’s “coaching centre hub”, especially for aspiring IITians, Kota’s emergence as a go-to destination for students has made it culturally fascinating. Kota Factory, a Youtube series created by Saurabh Khanna, is a terrific series about the reality of students in Kota – their aspirations, the daring highs and brutal lows. It offers an empathetic look into the lives of struggling students burdened with intense pressure from their families and schools, their bodies racing against the clock to ace their exams, often finding escape through drugs, alcohol, video games and even crime.

Contributions by Sneha Khale, Dhanya Samuel, Suruchi Sehgal

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MATRIMONIALS

SEEKING GROOMS

Seeking suitable professional boy born and brought up in Australia for young attractive girl, never married, 31, 5'2". Looks much younger, born and brought up in Sydney. Professional educator, Hindu Indian well settled family. Please email to rtmkh8064@gmail.com or call 0426 180 427.

Dubai based 40-year-old single, never married girl seeks suitable match. Born and educated in Mumbai, Gujarati, 5'4" and working for MNC seeks Hindu grooms. Please contact brother on 0412346590 or email directly on komaldxb@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 suitable match for Brahmin girl, 33, 5'4", Australian citizen, divorced, short

marriage. Pursuing Australian Dental Registration exam and working as casual dental teacher in Sydney. Well qualified, issueless, professionally settled match may contact rajk.nsw@gmail.com or call +61 468342814.

Beautiful, highly educated with very good family background, soft spoken, career oriented 33-year-old vegetarian Brahmin girl working, well settled in Sydney seeking an educated, teetotaller with good family background boy. Prefer Australian Citizen or PR. Please contact rajsyd83@gmail.com

Seeking professionally qualified match for attractive girl. Legally separated, no kids. 35-years, 5'3", working as Lead Legal Counsel in reputed investment firm at Gurgaon. Hindu family settled in Gurgaon. Email: satinder.neelam@gmail.com; Phone: +919818885477

SEEKING BRIDES

Wanted suitable match for 35-year-old Brahmin boy 5'8" fair complexion, well settled in Australia, having his own successful business. Contact kumar.sham@bigpond.com

BY KALYANI WAKHARE

Shopping! Just the word gives me an instant shot of pleasure, albeit short lived pleasure. Why short lived, you ask? Well, picture this – you are having a crappy day at work and you just decide to indulge in a brand-new pair of shoes. They give you an instant high. You feel splendid in your new shoes for a few days and then the excitement dies down. How many times have you looked at your brimming wardrobe and decided you have nothing to wear. Then, you shopped a bit more but ended up on a guilt trip because your bank statement revealed how much you spent! This was me. I had myriad reasons for shopping- a sale, therapy, birthday, anniversary, Mother’s Day and so on. But I was fooling myself. I was not happy, no matter how much I shopped.

Fashion waste, Marie Kondo and energy

Recently my daughter had to watch ABC’s War on Waste ‘series as part of her school assessment. We got interested, fascinated and then shocked at the stats on fast fashion - 85% textiles purchased by Aussies are sent to landfill every year. Fast fashion utilises fibres like nylon, acrylic and polyester that are petroleum derived and will take up to 1000 years to biodegrade. Fast fashion’s social impact is negative too. 80% of these clothes are made in Asia by exploited young women living in poverty. But I realised

What is better than retail therapy ?

Why we need to make ethical and sustainable

There is no beauty in the finest cloth if it makes hunger and unhappiness.

Mahatma Gandhi

people don’t really care because it does not impact them. What we care about is mountain loads of unfolded laundry or a disorganised wardrobe that gives us the shivers! Clutter drains energy, diminishes productivity and makes people depressed. My go to solution is Marie Kondo. She is the guru of organised living (google her this minute, if you haven’t heard of her!). Her techniques on how to lead a liberated, clutter free life are phenomenal. She tells us that unused items have a heavy energy that can weigh you down and make you feel guilty about money spent unnecessarily. Impulse buying is like binge eating, leaves a bitter (guilt) after-taste. This ties back to the idea of less is indeed more, good for your mind, wallet and the environment!

fashion choices

As consumers, we have so much power to change the world by just being careful in what we buy.

Emma Watson

Is shopping really that bad?

Well, it’s not. Mindful and consciously done shopping is pleasurable, especially with a group of like-minded friends followed by coffee and a long chat! Here are some simple strategies to make you the winner.

1. Seasonal culls and hassle-free de-clutter Schedule a wardrobe cull at the end of each season, to do a stocktake on pieces that were on high rotation and ones that you barely touched during the 3 months. You can contact Clothing Clean Up for a free-of-cost old clothing collection from your doorstep.

2. Maximise what you have Create a Pinterest board for outfits you love and then shop your own wardrobe to

Care for your clothes like the good friends they are”

Joan Crawford

recreate looks for $0.

3. Buy less, buy well Unsubscribe to shopping alert emails for a month and you will be surprised at how much you save! Retain only quality brands that sell long lasting pieces.

4. Finding your fashion joy Be mindful in the outfit you wear, feel the texture, appreciate how it flatters you, remember the compliments you received when you wore it last. Gratitude will go a long way in resolving the impulse buying attitude.

5. Show gratitude Lastly, also thank the women who made your clothes, even if you don’t know them. Send out a small prayer: “May your life be better tomorrow than it is today.”

Alaska’s big five

Wich adventure, pristine wilderness, wildlife, rich cultural heritage and friendly locals, Alaska makes for a great holiday destination

Ketchikan, we met friendly locals who would greet us and ask where we were headed.

BY PETRA O’NEILL

''If you’d like to join us you’d be most welcome,” said Mike, a Wrangell local where I’d just spent the last few hours exploring, leaving the world heritage listed site of ancient petroglyphs until last. Carvings of fish and animals found on rocks along the shore line were made by Alaska’s native Tlingit Indians thousands of years ago. At towns firmly planted on the tourist trail - Juneau, Wrangell and

Seals

I was on board UnCruise Adventure’s Safari Endeavour as it made its way along the coastline of the misty, damp and densely forested Pacific Northwest. On arrival in Juneau the contrast between an adventure ship carrying 84 passengers dwarfed by two mega liners became apparent. While we ventured off to explore the sights with many buildings dating back to the 1880s reflecting a past of logging, fishing and gold mining, hordes of passengers ventured no further than the cruise terminal’s wild west style souvenir shops. And while we cruised close to the shore, the mega liners remained out at sea

leaving us to enjoy the wilds of Alaska all to ourselves.

Next day at Endicott Arms we saw jagged snow-capped peaks with mountain goats clinging precariously to steep slopes before coming up close to the thunderous sounds of calving blue ice at Dawes Glacier. As huge icy chunks fell tumbling into the water it made us appreciate the enormity of the landscape we were in.

At Stephens Passage we went bushwhacking across a spongy forest floor of emerald green moss to a deserted logger’s camp, and hiked alongside a surging river. Then in the afternoon while out kayaking across an endless expanse of steel grey water, a seal popped up its

curious head before diving back down below.

Entering Wrangell along a narrow stretch of waterway known as Christmas Tree Lane with zigzagging navigational lights, we passed Stikine River that once led the way to the interior where prospectors found quartz and gold nuggets along the riverbank.

Surrounded by forests and shrouded by mist, Ketchikan is one of the wettest places on earth where ferns grow tall and totem poles dot the landscape carved by native Tlingit Indians to commemorate significant events and people. Creek Street, once notorious as a red-light district during the gold rush, is made of wood

planking with brightly painted houses now operating as galleries and boutiques. Nearby, a Lutheran church was built by the Scandinavian settlers who came here.

At Misty Fjords National Park, we observed the spectacular coastal scenery of stunning glacial valleys filled with wetlands, rainforests, estuaries and vertical cliffs. And as we cruised through Canada’s inside passage we followed intricate waterways and fjords past small fishing villages, observing wildlife up close including sea otters and harbour seals while bald eagles circled overhead.

As we crossed into Washington State, forested islands dotted the landscape. On the San Juan islands, we went kayaking and hiking past farms of apple orchards and agreed we could spend much longer in this serene archipelago.

Towards the end of the cruise the captain changed course. Just ahead were orca and humpback whales. Not wanting to be outdone, the humpbacks decided to put on a show breaching in the water several times their mouths full of krill just metres from the bow.

TRAVEL NOTEBOOK

Getting there: Qantas flies to Honolulu from where you can fly to Juneau with Alaska Airlines via Anchorage. From Seattle, Qantas returns to Australia via San Francisco.

Getting around: Seattle based Un Cruise Adventures offers adventure cruises to remote destinations including the 12 night Famed Passages of Discovery to Alaska. With a fleet of 9 ships ranging in size from 22 to 88 passengers, life on-board is convivial and relaxed, with great food, cosy and comfortable cabins and graded activities from easy strolls to active hikes, with kayaking, paddle boarding,skiff rides and optional polar plunge jumping into the frigid inky depths.

Stay: I overnighted in Hawaii at the Hilton Waikiki to break the long journey.

All travel arrangements were made by Cruise Traveller www. cruisetraveller.com.au

Requirements: For Australian passport holders, an ESTA obtained online, is required for entry to the USA.

At Endicott Arms we saw jagged snowcapped peaks with mountain goats clinging precariously to steep slopes before coming up close to the thunderous sounds of calving blue ice at Dawes Glacier.

Trekking

Shops

cineTALK

SMUG, CONVOLUTED, UNRELATABLE KITSCH

GAME OVER

STARRING: Taapsee Pannu, Vinodhini, Ramya Subramanian, Sanchana Natarajan and Anish Kuruvilla

DIRECTOR: Ashvin Saravanan

H H

With all the trappings of its genre tropes, the film Game Over starts with a promise. But to accept the film as a psychological thriller or a horror thriller, one needs to reject the false premise it is based on. Living in a palatial bungalow with only a maid and watchman in tow, in the dubious locality of Gurugram, where psychopaths behead single girls, burn their torsos and play football with the decapitated heads wrapped in plastic, Sapna (Tapsee Pannu) - a victim of a rape fantasy while battling through her own trauma - finds herself haunted and hunted.

She is haunted by one of the dead victims and hunted by the psychopaths armed with a camcorder, swords and sickle. Will she survive or be the next victim, forms the crux of the narrative. Far from the classics, yet literally designed as a torture-horror film, the plot with its insufferable smugness, borrows fundamentals from the maze-arcade, video game Pac Man, where you get three chances, opportunities or lives, before the game is over. This aspect complicates the narrative and makes it an unrelatable kitsch.

Also the psychopaths' motiveless, irrational, inexorable, impulsive and cruel actions, keeps the viewers baffled. But nevertheless, what

keeps you glued to your seat is the tormenting of the protagonist and the narrative teasing its audience with no real suspense, surprises or revelations.

Amped with good editing and sound effects, there are some brilliant jump-scares, clever and effective thrilling moments, but overall, the entire drama, mounted on a juvenile idea, seems forced and silly.

Tapsee Pannu as the traumatised Sapna is convincing in the logical extension of the character she plays. But with the predictability of the plot combined with the silliness of her character, where family dynamics are completely missing, intelligent audience would definitely find the entire narrative lacking heft.

Vinodhini Vaidyanathan as Sapna's maid Kalamma, Anish Kuruvilla as the psychiatrist, Sanchana Natarajan as the victim Amrita and all the other characters, including the police and psychopaths, are simply perfunctory and stereotypical.

The film is mounted on a fairly mediocre budget, resigned to just a few locations and with a handful of actors, the direction appears careless. In certain scenes, while the interior shows night, the exterior appears to contain broad day light and vice-versa. Also, the dubbing of this bilingual, Tamil-Telugu drama is not up to the mark.

Overall, this thriller isn't new, smart or engrossing. It has its moments of chill that will appeal to only a mindless audience.

Troy Rebeiro

TERRIFYING YET MESMERISING VISION OF FUTURE

world of emotionless totalitarianism is grim, joyless and utterly terrifying. Those women in dull crimson saris moving around zombie-like in a place of perverse purification run by a slimy religious freak (Arif Zakaria, breathing toxicity) remind you of Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale.

The difference is, the world that Mehta's emotionally vandalised characters inhabit, is far more imminent and immediate and catastrophic. Wisely, Mehta's writers Urmi Juvekar, Suhani Kanwar and Patrick Graham have avoided any true-life political or religious references. But the colour saffron, though used sparingly, is ‘Om’nipresent, and nowhere more so than in the first episode. The cinematography is so austere and colourless that it feels like a painting that has bled itself to a blur.

One of the many assets of this gem of a picaresque series is that it makes radical shifts of location in every episode, putting the protagonist Shalini in places where her feminine wiles and maternal instincts come into play with sinister consequences.

LEILA (NETFLIX)

STARRING: Huma Qureshi, Siddharth, Rahul Khanna, Seema Biswas and Arif Zakaria

DIRECTOR: Deepa Mehta, Shanker

Raman and Pawan Kumar

HHHH

In the beginning there is the swimming pool. A splashy symbol of the upper crust's affluence that is rapidly making the poor, poorer.

Deepa Mehta's disturbing dystopian drama begins with a happy family:

mother, father, child splashing in the pool. Within the first five minutes, the mood swerves away from joy and Shalini, the protagonist whose journey we follow from episode to enrapturing episodes of acute pain and limited joy, finds herself alone in a clinical ashram that resembles the shelter home in Muzaffarpur where young girls simply disappeared when they didn't obey the elders' salacious orders.

Except, there is no sex in this world of sterile religiosity and puerile purification. Emulating the Nazi model of a concentration camp, Mehta's futuristic

MINE-FUL OF LABOURED MARITAL JOKES

MIND THE MALHOTRAS (Amazon Prime Video)

STARRING: Cyrus Sahukar, Mini Mathur

DIRECTOR: Sahil Sangha and Ajay Bhuyan

HH

In spite of undeniable crackling chemistry between the two very talented actors who play the Malhotra couple, Mind The Malhotras feels as flat and stale as pancakes from yesterday's breakfast, a rancid aftertaste which no amount of maple syrup can conceal.

There are mother-in-law jokes, the discipline-the-child jokes, controlthe-domestic help jokes, love-thyinsufferable-neighbours jokes, incorrect - angrezi - pronunciation jokes, wife's weight jokes. Weight... there is more. There is even a Basantiseduces-Thakur joke which I am pretty sure won't amuse Ramesh Sippy.

I am sure originally, the writing

adapted from the Israeli series La Familigia must have made the team for the desi adaptation roll off their chairs in sheer glee. Alas, very little of the original humour renders itself to a rib-tickling translocation. Most of the humour shared by the lead pair is generated more from their innate talent to liven up proceedings than organically from the content.

Huma Qureshi captures every heartbeat of the mother's search for her missing daughter. Her face caught in tight close-ups displays enormous fortitude and hope in the midst of abject despair. This is Huma's moment of resurrection.

In the second episode, she befriends a female street urchin with whom she wades through heaps of garbage to escape a seemingly dangerous government agent Bhanu (Siddharth) who, predictably, seems to harbour a soft corner for the woman he's supposed to capture and probably kill. This is my least favourite episode with the little girl from the chawl overdoing the cutesie act and almost parodying the sympathy card.

Siddharth, habitually reliable (and quite effective in Mehta's Midnight's Children) here fails to register his character's tonal ambivalence. But the other Mehta favourite Seema Biswas is excellent as a wheeler dealer with a sympathetic heart who helps the heroine whenever it suits her. I wish there was more of Biswas in the series. But then this is a world where everything is rationed.

This is a series that keeps us watching till the devastating finale. I won't say it's done without emotional manipulation. There are points in the plot where the narrative cleverly modulates its tone to hold our attention. But we don't mind.

Leila is an epic saga which conveys a lot more than the fear of the corroding spirit of radicalism that has seeped into a social fabric. It's the story of racial segregation and cultural nihilism told in a deceptively calm tone with a brutal force and feral persuasiveness.

It is amazing how well Huma holds the plot together, going from grieving mother to cunning survivor in the midst of religious, cultural and political chaos that we all would recognise hoping that the world Mehta has created for the future would somehow cancel itself out.

Leila makes us think grimly about the future. Bleak and scary as it may be, there is still hope in that smile that lights up Huma's Shalini's eyes every time she thinks of her husband (Rahul Khanna) and child.

There is a moment when just before being captured, she slaps a man who has betrayed her trust. The sound of that slap reverberates across Mehta's world, smothered in terror and treachery. Leila is a savage ode to a lost world. It must be seen by every Indian as a timely warning. That glass of water that you are sipping right now could be your last.

Subhash K Jha

they are not. The script devises long therapy sessions with Denzil Smith as the streaming platform where Rishab and Shefali unwind.

The shrink sessions work to a point, as clearly, Cyrus and Mini have a terrific kinship worked out between them. However, in the absence of a more tenable dossier to provide the couple with a belligerent blueprint, the series gasps and splutters through clumsy writing concealed to some extent by the lead pair's intelligent command over the content.

There are some interesting incidental characters such as the family's 'cool' Man Friday who is also the patriarch's best friend. What finally takes the series down is laboured over-elaborate gags.

Mini Mathur and Cyrus Sahukar are no spring chickens when it comes to creating a climate of comicality. They are bang-on as a slightly off-beam couple trying to find reasons to be unhappy in a fairly tranquil marriage.

The main cause for wit in their marriage is their firm, if completely misplaced belief that they are going through a mid-marriage crisis when

One involves the song Tammatamma loge. Like the series itself, the gag goes on and on. By the time I reached Episode 4, I couldn't invest in this couple's non-existent crisis anywhere.

Cute, beyond a point, becomes cumbersome. The Malhotras don't seem aware of where to stop their mutual whining and cribbing and start enjoying their marriage again. Their hard luck.

Subhash K. Jha

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BIG B LAUNCHES EYE CARE CAMPAIGN TO FIGHT BLINDNESS

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has launched a ‘See Now’ campaign centred in his home state of UP, to help end avoidable blindness.

The campaign will deploy creative content via radio, television, print, social media, WhatsApp and SMS to provide information on eye health, local services and how to access them.

The actor, himself a proud wearer of glasses for years, hopes this will encourage others to wear glasses without any stigma.

“Vision problems are extremely common in India. The basic lack of understanding and awareness of how eye health works, leads to stigma around simple and easy treatments. People are often not aware of availability in their area of quality eye care services. It really is simple to avoid a lot of different sorts of blindness by preventative care,”Bachchan said in a statement.

The campaign, primarily funded by The Fred Hollows Foundation and in part by Essilor Vision Foundation, is working in partnership with Sightsavers India and Vision2020 India among others.

SAIF, ALAIA START SHOOTING FOR JAWAANI JAANEMAN

Actress Pooja Bedi’s daughter Alaia F and actor Saif Ali Khan have started filming for the new movie Jawaani Jaanemanin the UK.

GET READY FOR SRK

Everybody’s favourite Bollywood personality Shah Rukh Khan will soon be heading our way. He is the chief guest at this year’s International Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), to be held 8-17 August.

Not much is known yet about other guests, but you can make a safe bet regular culprits Simi Grewal and Malaika Arora (no longer Khan) will be around. How about Karan Johar, SRK’s bestie?

Looks like some changes have had to be made to the usual program this time round.

It all kicks off with the IFFM Awards this year – the gala party that has traditionally closed the official part of the festival. Shah Rukh will be attending of course, on 8 August, and then launching the festival itself the following day.

What, you’re not staying around for flag hoisting at Fed Square, Shah Rukh??

As we await further news - of the films to be screened, celebrity guests,

masterclasses and special interviewswe know as of now that the other festival mainstay, the Bollywood dance contest, is back again, to be held on 10 Aug.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, the director of the festival has also announced that the theme this year is Courage. Well chosen, we say, in times when freedom of expression is a hot topic not only in India but the world at large.

Shah Rukh himself said, “I’m particularly pleased with the theme of the festival this year which is Courage, an emotion that resonates with storytellers who really have the might to change society and the world.”

(Now how does this sound: a retrospective of Girish Karnad? He certainly fits the theme, and it will be a wonderful tribute.)

Shah Rukh also added, “I have had great memories of shooting for Chak De India in Melbourne and look forward to being back again, this time to celebrate Indian cinema.”

The festival is marking its tenth year this year.

Bedi tweeted a photograph of Saif and Alaia from India’s winning match against Pakistan at the ICC World Cup recently. She captioned the image: “My daughter Alaia with Saif Ali Khan. Perfect start to their shoot together for her debut film #jawaanijaaneman. He plays her dad…and this was shot on Father's Day. Best of luck for beautiful new beginnings.”

Jawaani Jaaneman marks Alaia’s Bollywood debut. Directed by Nitin Kakkar, the movie is a romantic dramedy (comedy + drama) also starring Tabu.

Excited about her big debut, Alaia left for London a week in advance in order to “get into the skin of (her) character and study the script better.” She’d also commented on how she “loves to overprepare for her character”.

“I’m working with established artistes who I admire, so I’m understandably nervous. To ease those nerves, Nitin sir thought it would be appropriate for me to observe things on set before I have to go in front of the cameras,” the newbie said in a statement. Say what you will about nepotism, the excitement of your first paying gig is universal!

Produced by Jackky Bhagnani’s Pooja Entertainment in association with Saif’s Black Knight Films and Jay

Shewakramani’s Northern Lights Films, the movie will release on 29 November.

SRK ON DUBBING 'THE LION KING' WITH SON

Shah Rukh Khan is stoked about dubbing for The Lion King with his "own Simba" Aryan, saying this makes it even more special.

Shah Rukh and Aryan will be lending their voices for King Mufasa and his son Simba, respectively, in the Hindi version of Disney's upcoming live-action film The Lion King.

Shah Rukh says his whole family loves the story. "It holds a very special place in our hearts. As a father, I can totally relate with Mufasa and the endearing relationship he shares with his son Simba," Shah Rukh said in a statement.

"The legacy of Lion King is timeless; and being a part of this iconic reimagining with my son Aryan makes it extra special for me. We are most excited that AbRam is going to watch this," he said.

The announcement comes a day after Shah Rukh took to Twitter to share a photograph of him and his son sporting blue cricket jerseys with their backs towards the camera. The star's jersey read "Mufasa" and Aryan's read "Simba".

Directed by The Jungle Book fame director Jon Favreau, The Lion King is one of the most-anticipated films of recent times.

The original film, considered an animation masterpiece, was released on 15 June 1994. It was not just widely lauded critically, but received commercial success as well.

Favreau has stayed true to the classic story of Simba and used pioneering filmmaking techniques to bring the iconic characters to the big screen in a whole new way.

The Lion King will be released in India on 19 July in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

'LEILA’ HAS BEEN LIBERATING: HUMA QURESHI

It’s a role that’s causing much discussion recently. As Shalini, who sets out on an arduous 16-year-long search for her missing daughter born out of a 'mixed' marriage in the latest dystopian show Leila, actress Huma Qureshi says she felt challenged to push her boundaries and play the role with full justice and honesty.

"It has been a gratifying journey for me. It have never played such a strong character before this show. With this character, I have pushed myself as an artiste. I really had to go deep into the story.

The gritty six-episode Netflix series also delves into the issues of authoritarian rule, class and religious

WHO WORE IT BETTER?

PRIYANKA CHOPRA OR IVANKA TRUMP IN ALEX PERRY?

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divide and environmental crisis, apart from depicting a mother's search for her daughter.

While talking about the societal and political issues prevailing in real life, Huma said "Leila" is quite relevant to present times.

"I really believe in the story. Every day, we read so much on Twitter or in newspapers that this happened, that happened...but we move on and ignore it. We hardly do anything about it. But when we get stuck in a particular situation and that situation starts affecting us, then we do something about it.

Huma considers Leila a role of a lifetime, one that has felt liberating.

"Our women are changing the game,” she said. “For the first time in my life, I got the opportunity to play such strong character where 'she' is the main lead and hero of the story.”

She added, “There is a long way to go, though. We need more stories about women for women and from women.”

WORTH WAITING FOR? YOU DECIDE!

Veteran actress Zeenat Aman has

joined the cast of Ashutosh Gowariker’s magnum opus Panipat for a cameo.

She will make a special guest appearance in the film as a feisty character named Sakina Begum, which sounds like it’s right in Aman’s wheelhouse! Sakina led the province of Hoshiyarganj and lived within the confines of her kingdom, away from the politics of the region. She played an important part in the Third Battle of Panipat, one of the most epic wars in Indian history, when the Peshwas turned to her for help.

For Gowarikar, it is an “honour and a fan moment” to be directing Aman.

“There are many of her films that I have loved and especially her work in them. What is most fascinating about her, is her humility despite all the stardom,” he said in a statement.

Gowarikar had earlier worked with Aman when they both acted in Anant Balani’s 1989 mystery film Gawaahi.

The film also stars Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Kapoor and KritiSanon in pivotal roles, and is produced by Sunita Gowarikar under the Gowarikars’ home banner AGPPL. The film is scheduled to release on 6 December.

AMITABH BACHCHAN

ARYAN KHAN

ZEENAT AMAN

ASK AUNTYJI

Mothers and sons

DEAR AUNTYJI

I have had some recent issues that I was hoping you could advise me on. I have two sons, 32 and 35: they are married and doing well. I needed surgery recently, and my husband and I decided that we would not tell our sons about this, because I did not want them to worry and they have other work and life issues to focus on. And so I went into surgery, but things did not go according to plan and I needed a two-week hospital stay instead of one week. In any case, only after I came home and got the all-clear from my doctor did I tell my sons about the surgery. To my husband's and my surprise, both my boys and their wives were upset with us. They said that by not telling them about this, we had done the wrong thing. I simply said that we did not want them to worry. They are still upset with us. My position is that all is well now, what would have been the use of making them worry. What are your thoughts?

AUNTYJI SAYS

Well, I'm pleased to hear that surgery went well and that you are now in the pink of health, because you will need all your strength and fortitude to hear what I have to say. What kind of dayan mother are you that you decided that you wanted to raise weaklings for children? Your eagerness to wrap your kids in cotton wool and protect them from all the normal experiences of life deprived them of the opportunities to build resilience, to learn to care, to accept that parents are mortal and to learn how to support others. You took away the opportunity for them to rise to the occasion and take care of you and your husband - because essentially, that's how life works. They are salty with you because you treat them like children, and want to keep them in a world of rainbows and unicorns where nothing bad ever happens. Your job as a parent was to raise adults who were capable to dealing with life's ups and downs; instead, you decided that weaklings who are unable to deal with the realities of life are what you want your children to be. Essentially, you have failed to give your children the chance to learn from life, and so you are a disappointing, unworthy parent. Shame on you.

My crowning glory

DEAR AUNTYJI

I am 25 years old and wear a hijab. My parents have been looking for a suitable boy for me, and there have been good candidates, and one was really good on paper. In fact, I thought he would be the one for me. But I had an experience with him that I wanted your salah on. So this boy is an engineer, has a good job and from a good family. He seemed to be a good person. He came to see me and everything was going well. I was conversing with him in front of family members - so all was going tickety boo. Then I saw the boy ask his mum something and she leaned over and asked my mum. My mum then took me into another room and I was quite curious - because everything was going so positively. The boy had asked his mother, who asked my mother, who was surprised but asked me anyway, whether I would take off my hijab and show him my hair. He wanted to see what my hair was like, Auntyji! Auntyji, I was so shocked by this request that I was speechless. In fact, I was so speechless and shocked that I refused to come out of the room. I started crying and then my mum went out and told them I wasn't feeling well and they left. But Auntyji, did I do wrong? Did I overreact? What should I have done instead? Right now, I don't want to have anything to do with a man who wanted to see my hair without a hijab - and who is not even engaged to me. He is a stranger. What's your position on this?

AUNTYJI SAYS

My poor gulabo, my little chameli, if I had been at that event, and had I heard the boy ask for this zaleel request, I would have thrown him and his mother out of the house. How dare they treat us women with such contempt? What kind of zaherila saap asks a hijaban to show her hair to him? What are you, a slave that he was inspecting, as though you were a ghodi (female horse), or a gai, and he had to look at your hair to judge whether you were worthy of this attention? That man is a djinn ke baccha, and I am furious that you were treated in this despicable manner. You are not a commodity, and he disrespected you. Your reaction was spot on - you saw the situation for the budtehzeeb event that it was. No, no matter how good this guy is, he disrespected you. What else was he going to ask to see after he saw your hair? How would he have liked it if you had asked him to show you his business area to determine whether he was worthy of your time? Nope, this lomdiis not for you. Move on and find another decent banda.