2019-08 Adelaide

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EDITORIAL

Time to push for freedom

PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra DEPUTY EDITOR Sneha Khale SOCIAL MEDIA Suruchi Sehgal

BY PAWAN LUTHRA

MELBOURNE COORDINATOR Preeti Jabbal CONTRIBUTORS Aparna Jacob, Rohit Revo, Vishnu Makhijani, LP Ayer, Minal Khona, Danish Ravi ADVERTISING MANAGER Shriti Sinha 0410 578 146 ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Charuta Joshi 02 9279 2004 FOR PERTH ADVERTISEMENTS RAM NAIDU - 0435 581 571 Indian Link is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Indian Link, may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Opinions carried in Indian Link are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Indian Link. All correspondence should be addressed to:

INDIAN LINK MEDIA GROUP Level 24/44 Market St, Sydney 2000 GPO Box 108, Sydney 2001 Ph: 02 9279-2004 Fax: 02 9279-2005 Email: info@indianlink.com.au

I

ndia became an independent nation 72 years ago. In some ways though, it is still struggling to become a free country.

While independence for a country means sovereignty and self-governance, freedom at its simplest can mean the right to act in whatever way one chooses (subject to common law). Yet it also means allowing for everyone to have an equal opportunity for life, liberty and their dreams.

Modern India, now on the eve of its 73rd year of Independence, is truly an independent nation. One can marvel at the manner in which it has stood for its own self-interest, given its own challenges, over and above kowtowing to any other power. Yes, it does forge and respect its alliances on the word stage, but it has also constantly exercised its right to strike a balance between diplomatic partnerships and taking appropriate action on

countries which have overstepped their mark in their relationship with it. While working closely in economic and military matters with Israel, for instance, India has balanced it with a ‘charm offensive’ with Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates. It has managed to keep an independent relationship going with the Soviet Union as it has increased its engagement with the United States in the last two decades. Though India has been mentioned as a candidate for a reformed Security Council in some permanent or “renewable seat” category since 1992, it has not yet succeeded in breaking into the permanent five group. Even though India may believe this has been one of its shortcomings in the international arena, its status as a force worth listening to, has never been underestimated. On the world stage, India continues to be well-regarded for its say on foreign issues.

But on the freedom front, India seems to have its challenges. Living outside of India and commenting from afar might be problematic, no doubt, but distance can offer a clarity of vison to make observations.

India in 2019 still clings to some of

the worst issues faced in a free society.

A culture of atrocious oppression continues to exist, pulling apart the argument that discrimination based on caste is a thing of the past. Much work needs to be done in women’s empowerment; corruption is still rampant, and transparency and accountability are scant.

In the recent past, the ability to engage in an active debate on a number of subjects has become stifled. India has always best in its pluralism – in fact, the argumentative Indian is engaging, and progresses democracy, which is the strongest tenet of India’s freedom.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee once said, "The roots (of vibrant democracy) are deep but the leaves are beginning to wilt. It is time for renewal.

If we do not act now, will our successors seven decades hence remember us with the respect and admiration we have for those who shaped the Indian dream in 1947?"

There’s much indeed to think about in the lead up to Independence Day. The Indian Link team wishes Indians at home and abroad, an all-embracing Independence Day and a life full of robust freedom.

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www.jeevansaath.com.au AUGUST 2019 7

YOUR SAY

AUSSIE BITES WITH CHEF RANVEER BRAR Indian Link followed India’s popular TV chef Ranveer Brar as he travelled around Oz trying new foods, making new friends and trading stories.

Kalpana Patel wrote: Hey Ranveer, you always come out with new and different concepts.

Anil Samal wrote: I’ve loved every episode. Learnt much too, like method, cooking skills and especially plating.

Keshal Patel wrote: Happy to see Australia included (on Ranveer’s shows).

Jui Saha wrote: Are you attempting to tell us you were in Australia and we missed it?

Kulshreshtha Rita wrote: I like your theme to connect with different cuisines.

Mousumi Banerjee wrote: Making India proud in a foreign land. Proud of you, Ranveer.

Rashmi Chhibber wrote: Great job, Chef, you make our country proud and of course we learn new things from you which we were unaware of. Plus, you are respected in other countries too which is very good! Truly proud of you, Ranveer.

Laboni Haldar wrote: Planning on visiting NZ? Kiran Deep Deep Kiran wrote: Another new series: small episodes but interesting and filled with knowledge.

Kanika Malik wrote: Australia needs better exposure to Indian food! There’s more to Indian cuisine besides rogan josh, vindalo, butter chicken and korma.

Happy Foodie wrote: Exotic... love those bits of info flashing.

Neeru Sandeep Dutt wrote: Hi chef, huge fan of yours, would love to know when you come next to Australia.

Shua Peter Juliet wrote: Come to Melbourne please, Ranveer. I’m a chef too and want to take a photo with you.

Rajdeep Borgohain Wao wrote: Thanks to you Ranveer for representing our country in such a great way...

Zahra Hasanain wrote: Hey are you in Sydney for long?

Rekha Chhibber Sharma wrote: Please go to Harris Park also, Indian food street!

Mandeep Singh Juneja wrote: Try crocodile as well, Chef! You will love it.

Rohit Joshi wrote: I enjoyed the fish markets in Sydney. Do try Vic’s Meat Market while there. Have a good time down under, Chef!

Kanika Walia wrote: Good day, mate! Enjoy your stay in Aussie land.

Sanjeev Sharma wrote: Welcome to my city, Chef. Come over to Kebabiya to have the best Indian kebabs in town. Our Muska Murg is from your butter chicken recipe.

Ishwar Madhyastha wrote: Enjoy the chill pill weather...and happy to catch up if you are around for a few days.

Jaswinder Kaur wrote: Hello sir, can you come to New Zealand?

Jeevika Paras Sharma wrote: Welcome to Sydney Ranveer. Do try Indian restaurants at Harris Park.

Jui Saha wrote: Ranveer was in Melbourne!!!!

Ranveer Brar wrote: One of the best parts about my travels is discovering

SAY IT AGAIN 8 AUGUST 2019

native ingredients. Exploring local flavours in this tour brought some amazing revelations.

Rashmi N Bhalla wrote: So many new things to learn from these videos. Some ingredients were so new to me, have never heard of Rosella flower.

Sujata Shastrakar Singh wrote: This is interesting… new knowledge about food.

Aditi Chaudhuri wrote: (Re Tamil Feasts) Loving the themes you choose to deliver messages to people. Great going. Keep it up.

Vijayta Maharana wrote: (Tamil Feasts is a) beautiful initiative. Firms up the belief in humanity strongly through food as a medium.

Yo India Food Truck wrote: Big thank you to Indian Link and Indian Masterchef Judge and TV host Chef Ranveer Brar for coming to talk about Indian food and our story.

Bhanu Kothari wrote: Great. I knew Yo India Food Truck very well. Nice food and service.

Atul Kashyap wrote: Hey Yo India, #chefranveerbrar in the house! Great going!

Kristyna Brown wrote: So much love for Yo India!!

Ranveer Brar wrote: As someone who's worked up the ranks in my professional life, I found Mr Sudhir Warrier's culinary journey quite fascinating.

Let's explore Sydney Showboats Dinner cruise...And yep, I couldn't help hijacking the kitchen for a bit!

Sydney Showboats wrote: Thank you, Chef! It was lovely having you on board!

Sushmita Jaiswal wrote: It's true, success stories (like these) are very inspiring.

Kalpana Patel wrote: Interesting and inspiring story.

Bidisha Banerjee wrote: Truly incredible!

Kshama Mahajan wrote: This is inspirational.

Ranveer Brar wrote: Great music and great food. For the Bearded Bakers at Knafeh bakery, these two go hand in hand. Wherever they stage their pop-ups, you can hear them before you even get to them.

Kulshreshtha Rita wrote: Wow, beautiful moments with Knafeh bakers.

Minakshi Kapoor wrote: Enjoy the music while cooking or enjoy cooking with music. (Either way) great combination.

Ritika Bedi wrote: Ranveer Brar you are doing amazing! I agree with what you said about playing good music while cooking, I follow the same. Cooking becomes more interesting with good music.

Bina Chakraborty wrote: Nice thought about music and food.

Mahima Deka wrote: What an amazing video! Good food and good music spread good vibes, positive energy, and the golden aura of happiness all around.

Ranveer Brar wrote: For architect-turned Knafeh "king" Ameer, this bakery in a shipping container (yes!) is a passionate dream come true. Proves nothing can stop you, if you have the vision and the zeal to follow it through.

Rashmi N Bhalla wrote: So full of life…what can be better than this! You show us - and in a way link us - to so many things we have not even thought of. Jahan jahan aap jaate hai vo destinations I add in my bucket list!

Sad news about the passing of former Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, a fine advocate for her nation and a person of great warmth and humanity. My deepest condolence to her family and the people of India.

Marise Payne, Australian Foreign Minister

Crowds mobbed him. Fans chanted his name. Hundreds waited at his hotel for autographs when he landed in Australia. There was no hiding for SRK - the man "who sells love to millions".

ABC News Breakfast

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INDIA-OZ Indian Link Radio broadcaster PRIYANKA TATER asked the question on air: Woh kya cheezein hain jo aapney kabhi India mein nahi ki, but have had to do here?

Ekta Sharma wrote: Leaving kids at day care.

Mohina Raj Garg wrote: Ghar ki safai. Cook almost sab kuchh to satisfy your food cravings.

Rajan Vaid wrote: Educated and qualified people doing cleaning, security guard and taxi driving jobs.

Vijesh Khanna wrote: Catching public transport.

Deepti Madan wrote: Filling petrol ourselves.

Manisha Belani wrote: Job! I started working here in Sydney.

Vinita Agarwal wrote: I never ate leftover food. Always fresh prepared roti, freshly made food three times a day. Baaki aur kya dil ka dard likhoon…

Sonal Wahi wrote: Lonely weekends.

Preet Sodhi wrote: Driving.

Avneet Kapoor wrote: Bachchon ko English main dantna.

Vinita Agarwal wrote: I was so surprised to see a dog obeying instructions in English.... yaar, kutte ko BHI English aati hai.

Abhinav Saxena wrote: Dishes. Jhaadu pocha. Laundry. Ironing. Day care. Buying frozen Indian mithai. Using the same card to travel in bus and train. Cleaning my own car. Petrol self-serve.

Mohina Raj Garg wrote: Kisne socha tha ki ek din frozen chapati, parantha, samosa and even frozen rasmalai tak khaani padegi.

Ashish Verma wrote: Following traffic rules.

Vinita Agarwal wrote: Not beeping the horn... my Aussie driving instructor asked me to stop the car and asked why did you beep?

Arora Vijay wrote: Left parents behind.

Pushpinder Sharma wrote: Reaching office sharp at 9am.

Avneet Kapoor wrote: Bartan dhone.

Pankaj Juneja wrote: Listening to Indian Link Radio.

WHERE IN OZ We asked you to identify this picturesque gorge.

Reader Gayathri Arulraj correctly identified it as Hamersley Gorge, Karijini National Park, Western Australia. City of Literature @ MelCityofLit wrote, tongue in cheek, “Coburg! Just off Munro Street”.

WHERE IN INDIA

We asked you to identify this beautiful abandoned abode, said to be haunted Reader Gayathri Arulraj correctly identified it as the 400-yearoldGadwal Mahal which became the palace of Banaganapalle Nawab in Mahabubnagar, Telangana. Reader Mahesh Rohira wrote, tongue in cheek,“10 Janpath”, the official residence in New Delhi of a high-ranking leader of the Opposition.

BOOK ON HUMAN SURVIVAL INSPIRED

BY RANTHAMBOR TIGRESS MACHALI

We featured this book in our Loving Right Now: Read, Eat, Listen, Watch column.

INSTA WORTHY Instagram a picture of Indian Link in your daily life, or send it to us via email, using the hashtag #indianlink Sandeep Pandit wrote: That beautiful moment in life, when you’re the reason for the smile on Mum’s face! Thanks you #indianlink and Suruchi Sehgal for giving me this moment.

He lived by a central Hindu belief - that the world is one family, his son Jagdish Trivedi explains. "It was difficult for him to distinguish between his own people and an outsider."

ABC, on the death of Shankarlal Trivedi, 107, the oldest Hindu in Australia

Katy Yocom wrote: I won't lie: Getting international coverage is a complete and total kick. Thanks for the love, @indian_link!

In a world that is increasingly plagued by the sharing of negative sentiments … and a narrowing of humanity, more often than not societies are tending to reward anger and hatred, rather than nurture, compassion and love.

Shah Rukh Khan, at LaTrobe University AUGUST 2019 9

COVER STORY

SRK seduction Shah Rukh mania sweeps Melbourne

10 AUGUST 2019

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hy’s he wearing his sunglasses indoors, ABC TV presenter Virginia Trioli asked. Her colleague Georgie Tunny, who had just interviewed Shah Rukh Khan, replied, “Shah Rukh does what Shah Rukh wants.”

Tunny is one of many new fans Shah Rukh has won in Australia.

Described repeatedly as “India’s - the world’s - biggest movie star”, Shah Rukh Khan wowed everyone he engaged with on his brief trip down under as a guest of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) - including, in all probability, the koala and the python that were brought out to welcome him at LaTrobe University.

He had impeccable manners - kissing the women, looking genuinely thrilled as he received the LaTrobe and IFFM honours, remembering lines from his movies, joining the fans to shake a leg - and left the mainstream in awe just as much with his star appeal as with his humility.

Bollywood’s undisputed king Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) enjoyed adulation from thousands of adoring fans that braved the inclement weather to catch a glimpse of their favourite star.

From his first public appearance at the Press Conference held at Collins Street to the after party at the IFFM Awards Night, SRK did what he does best – he charmed irresistibly.

The dimpled smile, witty remarks and chivalry were all out on full display at his first appearance at the media meet, as he held the chair open for fellow actor and festival guest Tabu and then cheekily blamed her for the late start. Of course the actress forgave him in a heartbeat, as did everyone else that was kept waiting at other events thanks to his chronic inability to keep time. We hope it’s because he hopped from commitment to commitment and not because he was just fashionably late.

He remembered his last visit to Melbourne in 2006-2007 during the filming of Chak de India when he was a rising superstar, making many hit films and being

Photos: Ravinder Jabbal

BY PREETI JABBAL

declared the sexiest man in Asia.

“So I come back here again, still a rising superstar, not making too many hit films… in fact, trying desperately to do so, but still irrepressibly the sexiest (even) today,” he said, tongue in cheek.

He went on to thank the Indian diaspora and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne for their contribution in bringing Indian films to the world.

The large number of media folk at the press meet remained mainly focussed on SRK, as if he was the only person they came to meet. So he carted the microphone around for every panel member to have a say, and not feel left out. Charming as well as magnanimous, was the general consensus.

The SRK seduction continued at the Awards Night held at the Palais Theatre, where security had their work cut out keeping the screaming fans from mobbing him as he entered through the aisles. He waved, shook hands and blew kisses, and they tripped over themselves in their attempts to get closer, and to take that all important selfie.

The glamorous awards night had much to offer but the audience was clearly restless to hear from King Khan till he finally obliged.

Accepting his award for Excellence in Cinema IFFM 2019, he couldn’t go past a

few lines of his written speech before the audience started yelling out his name and professing their undying love for him.

The King of Romance raced through his formal speech to return the sentiment with some popular romantic dialogues from his films addressed to the women in the audience. Selfies temporarily forgotten, they all but swooned.

Acquiring some new fans SRK voluntarily joined Emotion21Inc, a group of dancers with Down syndrome and proved yet again how well he connects with and touches people, a craft that amplifies his personal brand.

As yesteryears actress Simi Garewal claimed, the star is richer than Tom Cruise (who, you ask) with a networth of over $600 million, he owns land on the moon, has a perfume to his name and the Paris museum once released a limited edition coin with his image that is worth a fortune today.

Dishing out wisecracks at every opportunity, SRK’s humour was lapped up by an appreciative crowd, the piece de resistance of the gala being his impromptu signature moves on the hit song Chaiya Chaiya that worked like a charm.

Enjoying a brief encounter with Australian native animals at Melbourne’s

LaTrobe University, he confessed that it was his first encounter with a snake and that he was ‘touched’ by the python that was put around his neck in welcome.

After instructing the gathered media in his signature open-armed pose, he joined a formal and impressive academic ceremony to accept an honorary degree. The Doctor Of Letters honour was awarded to SRK in recognition of his outstanding achievements within the entertainment industry, for his ongoing championship of human rights and his advocacy for social justice.

Felicitating him, University Chancellor John Brumby recognised his wide-ranging humanitarian work, including establishing the Meer Foundation to support and empower women who have survived acid attacks in India.

During his occasional address SRK briefly explained the inspiration and purpose behind establishing Meer Foundation and said, “This is not an award for anything that the Meer Foundation might have achieved. It is for the courage of every woman who faces the brutality of injustice, inequality and inhumanity.”

La Trobe University also announced the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship, providing an opportunity for an aspiring female researcher from India to complete her general Scholarship in LA Trobe University. The four-year full fee research scholarship is valued in excess of $200,000.

Shah Rukh remarked that university is a place where youngsters have opportunities not just for academics and extra curriculars, but also for a better life, and to offer that opportunity to a girl from India is a wonderful gesture by La Trobe.

Later that evening SRK officially opened the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2019 as their chief guest and major drawcard.

The Festival opened with the screening of Bulbul Can Sing, an acclaimed film by director Rima Das. Conferred with many titles ranging from Doctor, Knight, King Khan to Badshah of Bollywood, it was clear that Shah Rukh inspires devotion like no other. In his few days here, the charismatic star provided plenty of fodder to the media, local and mainstream and his appeal has since only quadrupled…

More power to brand SRK. AUGUST 2019 11

COVER STORY

Top Ten at IFFM

Countless moments make up an event as major as the tenth edition of IFFM, one of the most eagerly awaited events on the Australian Indian community’s annual social calendar.

Here are some that stood out to us - moments when the forces came together to make the magic happen and take us to a place of heightened emotions.

1. IT’S A BRAVE WORLD OUT THERE The Festival’s theme of Courage was explored through films curated well as the Short Film Competition. Submissions were accepted from filmmakers from India and Australia in the form of a narrative or documentary.

Ali Mousawi took the coveted prize for his movie My Name Is Mohammad and Raghad, We Don’t Exist Here Anymore, based on a true refugee story.

Genevieve Clay received accolades for her film Be My Brother based on a differently abled person.

The two winning entries were played to a packed audience at the IFFM Awards Night held at the Palais Theatre.

Director, screenwriter and lyricist Vijay Krishna Acahrya had the unenviable job of shortlisting the entries, choosing from some incredibly talented filmmakers with 12 AUGUST 2019

arresting vision. Admittedly, he presented a rather long section for the Short Film competition on the night, the declared winners receiving a trip to India and a camera from Black magic Design.

2. IN PERFECT SYMPHONY In a true meeting of East and West the renowned Melbourne Symphony Orchestra tailored their repertoire to play a musical tribute to the cinematic legacy of Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan.

They played a medley of his songs including soundtracks from Kuch Kuch hota Hai, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kal Ho Na Ho and other SRK classics.

Their outstanding musicianship was on brilliant display as they accompanied playback singer Amaal Malik for his short appearance on stage. With music well suited to the young singer’s personal style of mixing various genres such as jazz,

electronic, Indian classical and pop, the mood turned decidedly serenade with Amaal’s rendition of Mein rahoon ya na rahoon. The best of Indian cinema collaborated with the best in orchestral music and the result was no less than magical.

3. SASS AND SPARKLE IFFM’s annual Awards Night recognised some outstanding performances and contributions to Indian cinema. Many glammed up despite freezing temperatures and braved the winds to rub shoulders with some big names in the Indian film industry and celebrate their achievements.

Among the ecstatic recipients on the night were Tabu who took the Best Actress award for Andhadhun, and Sriram Raghavan who won the Best Director for the same film. South Indian actor Vijay Sethupathi collected the Best Actor award

for his challenging transsexual role in the LGBTQ genre dark thriller Super Deluxe.

Best Indie Film went to Bulbul Can Sing, Best Film Gully Boy, Diversity Award to Onir, Equality in Cinema award to Chuskit and Super Deluxe. Excellence in Cinema was awarded to Shah Rukh Khan and Simmba snapped up the Telstra People’s Choice award.

In a combination of escapism and social relevance, education and entertainment, the winning films explored a landscape of feelings and emotions that were deeply human and touched at various levels.

The awards recognised standout artistic and story elements, voted by Golden Globe winner Fred Schepisi, film editor Jill Bilcock, film critic and columnist Rajeev Masand, actress, writer, producer Victoria Hill and Australian film, theatre, TV artist Vince Colosino.

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Photos: Ravinder Jabbal

4. PATRIOTIC KJO Patriotic sentiments were high at the Flag Hoisting event held at iconic Federation Square prior to India’s Independence Day on 15 August. Film producer and talk show host Karan Johar was given the honour of hoisting this year.

Coinciding with Prime Minister Modi’s highly controversial abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, the ceremony in Melbourne was preceded by protests and demonstration from the two opposing factions affected by the move. Entry was free but weather was fierce so it was not as crowded as previous years. However a sizeable number of people from the community did turn up.

Karan Johar said, “This has been an emotional and proud moment for me and hoisting the flag and singing the national anthem with all of you has made my heart feel all the love we have for our great country, India.”

India is not just a country but an emotion, he noted, and he should know, given he has milked the emotion that is India in his hugely successful films.

To sum up he quoted some beautiful words penned by the legendary Gulzar in last year’s hit film Raazi: Aye vatan vatan mere abaad rahe tu, mein jahan rahun jahan mein yaad rahe tu, he said to thunderous applause.

5. BOLLYWOOD MEETS BAD WEATHER Dance teams from all over Australia battled it out at Fed Square in the Telstra

Bollywood Dance Competition.

Sparking creativity and nurturing dancing talent in various ways, the event attracted solid participation. With focus on teamwork, choreography and discipline many were inspired to connect culturally through the art of dance.

The performances this year integrated diverse styles including Hip Hop, Bhangra, Kathak, classical and contemporary. Short listed entrants in pre-teens, teens and adult category performed, on an open stage in this yearly event.

Chilled to the bone, the contestants bravely got on stage and presented some sizzling routines.

Celebrity judges Miss Universe Australia Priya Serraro, actress Malaika Arora and Tamil star Gayathrie Shankar warmed quickly to the talent unfurling on stage.

Actor Arjun Kapoor joined in as a surprise guest, happily meting out hugs and selfies to the contestants. Bolly Dance Team Epping, Folk Lovers Academy and Dance Masala were among the winners with a special mention for a group interestingly called Wait till the End.

6. CHAT SESH The chat sessions with journalist Rajeev Masand, entertaining as well as informative, took us to the inside world of the visiting film-makers. Zoya Akhtar, Sriram Raghavan, Thiagarajan Kumararaja and Rima Das spoke about behind-thescenes happenings and issues of their films

Gully Boy, Andhadhun, Super Deluxe and Bulbul Can Sing respectively. As expected though, the most popular was Karan Johar as he spoke about that old favourite Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, in his own words “the most illogical story ever”. More illogical, we think, was his recount of how the film was made, including roping in SRK with no story whatsoever on the cards, meeting ‘new girl’ Rani Mukherji, and that bizarre wardrobe shopping trip to London that introduced an entire generation to ‘branded’ clothing. We also got better acquainted with his peculiar shoe collection, and Tabu’s unaffected laughter.

Discussion also centred on the serious side of films and their role in society.

The Festival shone a spotlight on what is currently most exciting and innovative in Indian cinema with both emerging and established filmmakers coming to showcase their work and engage in a wider discussion about cinema's important role in the arts.

7. MAINSTREAM REACTIONS Great to watch the wider mainstream watching us as we welcomed our film industry amongst us. Every major media platform took on Shah Rukh Khan, quite in awe of the adulation thrown at him. An ABC journalist asked Twitter for possible interview questions; one newspaper apologised for listing his networth as $6m instead of $600m, and many newsrooms cut together clips of SRK songs and films. The general conclusion:

initial curiosity turned to, will they admit it, admiration?

8. SCREENINGS With all the major events of the IFFM 2019 behind us there is still plenty of drama left as the Festival continues to roll out 60 movies in 21 languages. The list comprises a broad swathe of movies from classics like Manthan to modern day blockbusters like Badhai Ho, with regional, Indie and short films in between. There’s enough variety in the list to let the unique power of movies wash over us during this exceptionally cold winter.

9. VOLUNTEER BRIGADE Thankfully there is an entire year before the next festival rolls around, as no doubt the IFFM team need to recover from the Herculean effort that went into organising this one. The audiences may have had their moment up close with their favourite stars (and memories for a lifetime), but the festival team was probably overwhelmed with the thousand possibilities of things going wrong.

Mitu Bhowmick Lange and her team, a large number of them volunteers, have put their heart into ensuring the success of this event: a pat on the back to them.

10. SRK What can we say, except to quote a social media user: we’re Shah-struck.

Preeti Jabbal AUGUST 2019 13

COVER STORY

Tabutiful

In every Bollywood generation there’s one actress that grows more and more beautiful as she ages. This generation, it’s Tabu.

BY PREETI JABBAL

A

ctress Tabu is delighted with her first ever trip to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital. “I am getting a very positive vibe from Melbourne ever since I’ve arrived,” said the elegant actress as she crossed her legs gracefully and pushed a strand of errant hair behind her ears. “I am so happy to be here and I hope I can come back again.”

She wished to make the most of the two days she was here as guest of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM 2019), happily content to hang around the hotel where she found many things to see. With the current weather conditions in Melbourne - lashing winds, freezing temperatures and depressing rain definitely a wise move.

We moved on to reflect on the theme of her much awaited upcoming film Jawani Jaaneman where she is paired with Saif Ali Khan, produced by Saif’s house production Black Knights Films. The two are reuniting to work together after two decades since previous hit multi-starrers Biwi No 1 and Hum Saath Saath Hain.

The film, directed by Nitin Kakkar, is a coming of age story launching Alia Furniturewalla, daughter of actress Pooja Bedi. Tabu plays a cameo role as Saif Ali Khan’s girlfriend. Are the teen years portrayed in this film vastly different to her own teen years?

“It’s totally changed!” Tabu observed.

“Teenagers today, and the new generation, are very different to when we were growing up. Their stories and lives are very different so obviously that will reflect in this film. The representation of teenage years is very courageous in this film.”

With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Tabu is a seasoned, stellar actress with many strong roles and stand out performances to her credit. Does she feel that she now completely understands her craft, or there are things that can still surprise her?

“I can never, ever feel that I completely understand my craft, because it is not a technical term, it is an organic and human process. It will keep growing and with age, wisdom and experience it will keep evolving. Till my last breath it will keep growing inside me,” said the agelessly beautiful actress.

Besides garnering multiple national awards for acting and receiving the Padma Shri award from the Government of India, Tabu has also featured in Hollywood film Life of Pi directed by Ang Le and Mira Nair’s drama The Namesake.

14 AUGUST 2019

She is currently working in several South Indian films and has a great flair for languages. Known for her acting prowess in films like Astitva, Chandni Bar, Cheeni Kum and most recently in De De Pyar De, she is an empowered, independent woman who does not feel the need to be defined by relationships or marriage.

Does she think gender equality is a dream or possibility in Bollywood?

“We need to promote equality in many areas in our world, not just in the film industry. We need to find ways not to subjugate women just because of their gender. For example not considering them for certain jobs or not allowing them freedom to choose. Women should be considered as an asset (to society), a strength not a weakness,” mused the actress who has brought many strong female characters to life on screen.

Tabu took home the Brest Actress Award at IFFM 2019 for her complex role in the critically acclaimed as well as box office hit Andhadhun. The Sriram Raghuvan thriller received rave reviews from critics and audiences and was among the highest grossing film of 2018.

It also won the 66th National Best Hindi film 2019 award recently. How did she navigate between the black and white, right and wrong in that unusual role?

“I am still perplexed on how I managed that character!” the award-winning Tabu revealed with honesty. “The beauty of it was that no one could confirm whether my character Simmi (who murders her husband) was crazy or good, villain or victim. There is no core that she belonged to. Other than that I really cannot remember how I managed the process!”

She claimed to be delighted, however, that the film was winning so many accolades.

Bollywood has traditionally put a huge premium on ‘fresh’ and ‘young’, yet this defiantly feminine actress is ageing beautifully, has a commanding screen presence, and continues to serve as an inspiration for women of all ages in Indian cinema. She will always be known for her innate ability to adapt to any challenging role and land completely authentic emotions on screen.

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OPINION

Paramilitary soldiers stand guard in Srinagar, 5 August 2019, as India’s Home Minister Amit Shah moves a resolution in Parliament that repeals Article 370: the state will be split into two Union Territories, Kashmir with an Assembly and Ladakh region without one. Photo: AP

Our tryst with destiny

A Kashmiri Pandit perspective on the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A BY ROHIT REVO

5

August 2019 will be permanently etched in the minds of Kashmiri Pandits as a historic day when mainstream India finally found the resolve to do the right thing and correct a blunder of epic proportions. For the past three decades Kashmiri Pandits like me have felt a part of their body severed, and the desire to be part of Kashmir once again has never ebbed.

When news of the security build up in Kashmir began to come in, no one in their wildest dreams had imagined that the action would be so swift and strong.

The dismantling of Articles 35A, 370 and the reorganisation of the state was a masterstroke by the Modi Government.

Upon hearing the news, as odd as it may seem, my initial feeling was not oneof joy; instead memories of the dark day came flooding back when we were forced to leave our homes in Kashmir overnight under the cover of darkness. My eyes welled up as I re-lived those terrifying moments when family and friends were saddled onto trucks like cattle with minimal or no belongings, and left to find

Upon hearing the news, as odd as it may seem, my initial feeling was not one of joy; instead memories of the dark day came flooding back when we were forced to leave our homes in Kashmir overnight under the cover of darkness. shelter in open spaces and sub-human conditions outside Kashmir. The physical and mental pain suffered by the people of this generation due to the onslaught of militancy and the feeling of neglect by India came rushing back to my mind.

Slowly as the news sank in, the realisation dawned that we would at last be able to go back to our homes.

Celebrations broke out in Kashmiri Pandit homes and it appeared that the rest of the country had finally heard their cries and pain.

It was a vindication of sorts. The neglect of the people of Jammu, Ladakh and border areas, and discrimination against Kashmiri Pandits for the past 70 years will now hopefully come to an end.

The removal of Article 35A and Article 370 has put paid to the hopes of the political dynasties of the Abdullah and

Mufti families who neglected their own people. For years the separatist leaders stoked the fire in Kashmir and misled an entire generation of people to go on the streets and protest. The separatist leadership in Kashmir held on to this position for the last 30 years and never wanted a political solution. Their steadfast refusal to join mainstream politics meant that they had no avenues of fundraising and relied on the Hawala route for funding stone throwers and their self-interests.

With NIA applying pressure by choking their funding sources, Hurriyat ran out of steam.

This change will trigger an infusion of the best human talent seeking opportunities in the area, and will open the local population to huge economic and social opportunities. The Modi Government has used the huge mandate

provided by voters to drive strong change in the system. While the local population may find it difficult to accept the news, their attitude is bound to change as economic benefits start to trickle down.

While this is one of most defining moments of Modern India as we strengthen our social fabric, it is also a difficult period for those affected by this. The next few months will be crucial, and it is time for all the people residing in areas other than Jammu and Kashmir to look out for Kashmiri students, tourists and businessmen and make them feel safe and welcome at all times. After this change, it is time to open our hearts as well and provide a feeling of warmth to everyone affected. Authorities need to make sure trouble-makers and over-zealous and foolish activists don’t take over. Hope police deal firmly with miscreants if any, so that all doomsday predict or sare proven wrong. The 17th century Kashmiri saint Resh Pir said that life and human values should be a gulkand: the nectar of peace, tolerance, brotherhood and humanity is a pious thing. It is time to remember his words.

India gained independence on 15 August 1947, but for Kashmiris like me, our real Tryst with Destiny started on 5 August 2019, providing a solace to our deep scars: these may now heal a bit faster.

AUGUST 2019 15

STAGE

Raksha bandan, Adelaide style

The Hindu festival marking the brother-sister bond and signifying protection, takes on a whole new meaning

BY LP AYER

I

t was a rather special Rakshabandhan for Adelaide’s Indian community this year, thanks to the Vishva Hindu Parishad. The traditional concept of Rakshabandan - brothers assuring protection to their sisters in return for getting a rakhi (thread bracelet) tied around their wrists - was taken to another level, bestowing it an expanded role for the protection of the wider community.

By inviting representatives of major service organisations like the SA Ambulance, State Emergency Services, Fire

Brigade and the Police, who are at the front and centre of community protection, tying ‘rakhis’ on their wrists and generously applauding their selfless service, VHS has made the festival’s significance known to outside the Indian community.

Also launched on the occasion was another laudable initiative, the ‘Hindu Helpline’, a counselling service for women by women. A team of specially trained women, including five from India and one each from Bhutan, Nepal, Fiji and Bangladesh, well-versed in a variety of languages, will be available on phone 24/7 to counsel women in need of confidential advice on issues of concern to them.

16 AUGUST 2019

This Rakshabandan event, held for the second successive year, also included honouring 145 volunteers from various sections of the Indian community in a variety of fields. VHP took up the responsibility to organise it on behalf of its umbrella organisation HOTA (Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations Forum) that has forty groups, including two from Nepal and one from Bangladesh, under its wing. ‘Respecting women’ and ‘Universal Fellowship’ formed the theme of the evening’s event that resonated well in every guest speaker’s address.

Volunteers were awarded certificates in recognition of their work in various fields by the chief guest, Jing Lee, Assistant Minister to the Premier on Multicultural Affairs. The award categories included Tejaswini Award for women of substantial contribution, Kautilya Award for entrepreneurs of the year, a HOTA Volunteer Award for adults, an Abhimanyu Award for youth, and Agastya Award for senior citizens. A young lady who donates blood on her birthday every year received the ‘jeevandaan’ award.

A colourful booklet giving brief details of all these recipients’ work was released on this occasion along with access information of the ‘Hindu Hotline’ team.

In total, the event came off after monthlong efforts and is a testimony to the organising skill of VHP volunteers with the guidance of its president Rajendra Pandey.

The function lasting four hours ended with a dinner for about three hundred attendees.

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Buds in blossom How Shruthi Adelaide is nurturing young talent

BY LP AYER

A

t Shruthi Adelaide’s recent Young Talent Day (Yuva Kala Mela), it was a case of emerging talent meeting and engaging with established talent.

Local dancers and dance students got a chance to observe up close - and perform with - India’s well-known classical vocalists Anahita Ravindran and Apoorva Ravindran, and Canadian born Bharatanatyam dancer Bhavajan Kumar.

As an association dedicated to the promotion and preservation of South Indian art and culture in South Australia, Shruthi recognises well the importance of empowering community youth through native Indian classical music and dance. It strives to unite the youth under the values of art andculture, service and societal engagement.

Its Young Talent Day is a festival of Indian dance and music for youngsters, aimed at giving them an opportunity not only to showcase their talents to a discerning audience, but also to learn, interact and ultimately sustain and strengthen the classical Indian arts.

All performers, volunteers, MCs and coordinators for this festival are aged 26 years and below.

A thillana in Raga Begada, jointly presented by the local and international artists together, was a tender highlight, especially as there was no prior practice and it was all done impromptu.

Sisters Anahita and Apoorva, who learnt their craft under the able guidance of their gurus (their grandmother Smt. Shanthi Jayaraman, and Sangeetha Kalanidhi Shri.

Chitravina. N. Ravikiran), have performed in various major sabhas in India and abroad.

They have won awards from prestigious institutions such as Shanmukhananda Fine

Arts Mumbai, and the Sri Krishna Gana Sabha Music Academy. On this occasion, they were accompanied by Gokul on the violin and Akshay on the Mridangam.

Given that it was Adi Pooram on the day, the birth star day of Andal, the only female Alvar among the 12 Vaishnavaite Alvars, Anahita and Apoorva presented a Pasuram "Koodarai Vellum Seer Govinda" in the ragam Poorvi Kalyani.

Dancer Bhavajan Kumar’s recital was equally captivating. He also started with a dedication to the Goddess Andal, “Natchityaar Kauthuvam”.

Bhavajan has been performing Bharatanatyam since the tender age of five.

Having trained under some of the artform’s best-known names including Padma Bhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, Padma Shri Prof. Sudharani Raghupathy

and Prof. C.V. Chandrasekhar, Bhavajan presented his arangetram in 2006. He has won many accolades since then such as Pandit Durgalal Endowment Award from Sri Krishna Gana Sabha and Yuva Kala Bharathi from Bharat Kalachar. Currently receiving advanced training from Leela Samson and Bragha Bessell at Kalakshetra, Bhavajan has performed and toured extensively in India, Canada, USA and Europe.

His bewitching Kalinga Narthana Thillana was the grand finale of the event elaborate on great foot work, and with brisk and graceful movements.

The local artists, nearly 80 in number, came from the following dance and music schools: Temple of Fine Arts Adelaide, Apsaras Arts Adelaide, Souparnika School of Dance, Rooh Punjab Di Adelaide and Sangeetha Sharada School of Music.

The event was emceed by Bharat Raghuram and Dr. Kamalesh, President of Shruthi. It was supported by a grant from Multicultural Affairs, Department of the Premier and Cabinet. Ms Thuy Phan graced the event by representing the South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission (SAMEAC).

It is a credit to Dr. Kamalesh and his team to have presented such a major event so soon after Shruthi’s prestigious ‘Vibrance’ show only two months ago. Adelaide’s classical scene seems to have come of age.

AUGUST 2019 17

SPECIAL FEATURE

#IndiaBucketlist

73 years of Independence. 73 interesting things to do. How many can you tick off?

This #IndependenceDay, we’ve got a mix of popular and offbeat things for you to do and experience in India. This isn’t your average checklist, it’s got all of the diversity that India’s renowned for packed into one neat long-ish list. If you’ve done any of these things, check them off and more power to you. If you haven’t done them (yet), you’re welcome. India beckons!

Hit the ski slopes at Gulmarg.

Scuba dive in the Andamans, snorkel the clear waters of Lakshadweep or the Nicobar Islands.

Try some jackfruit chips in Kerala.

Visit the IITs or IIMs, India’s leading tech and management institutes.

Stay in a tree house in Kerala.

Check out the one-horned rhino, the pride of Kaziranga.

See the sunlight shimmer on some of the highest lakes in the world at Ladakh.

Drop in at Spiti Valley’s Kyi Monastery in Himachal.

Motorbike from Manali to Leh.

18 AUGUST 2019

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Go on a boat ride along the Sundarbans or the Ganges.

Watch devotees carry Lord Ganesh to his watery end in the sea in Mumbai.

Visit the salt flats at Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch.

Witness the Niagara Falls of India, Hogenakkal Falls on the river Kaveri.

Check out the Indo-Islamic architecture at Haji Ali Dargah, Mumbai.

Admire the sea of millennial pink as flamingos flock to Sewri, Mumbai.

Take in a cricket match at Wankhede Stadium.

Bag a role in a TV soap at Film City, Mumbai.

Don’t forget your umbrella at one of the world’s wettest places in Meghalaya.

Pick up some antiques at Chor Bazaar (Thieves’ Market).

Try Sorpotel (curried liver, heart and kidney) in Goa.

Check out India’s rock, goth, metal and punk scene in Shillong.

Walk the last footsteps of the Mahatma at New Delhi’s Birla House.

Visit the WWII fallen at Kohima War Cemetery.

Marvel at Lord Buddha in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.

Drive up to the Drang Drung glacier near Kargil in Kashmir.

AUGUST 2019 19

SPECIAL FEATURE

Relax and unwind at Kovalam beach resort.

Study the French influences in Pondicherry.

Pick a fresh lotus, India’s national flower.

Walk across a living root bridge in Meghalaya.

Go paragliding in Kamshet, Maharashtra.

Propose to your loved one at the monument of love - Taj Mahal.

Film the lowering of the flags ceremony at the India-Pak border at Wagah.

See Konark, a 13th century temple in Orissa, excavated by the British.

Shower in the outdoors at a Taj Vivanta resort.

Check out an Indian vineyard at Nashik.

Visit Sydney Opera House’s cousin in Delhi, the Baha’I Lotus Temple.

Drive down the Bandra-Worli Sea Link or the Queen’s Necklace in Mumbai at dusk.

Play golf like a maharaja at Rambagh Palace Golf Club in Jaipur.

Join the gay parade at Delhi or Kolkata.

Study the erotic sculptures at Khajuraho.

Visit a centuries-old eco-tourism resort at the Bishnoi Village in Jodhpur.

20 AUGUST 2019

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Hear the roar of the Asiatic Lion at Sasan Gir Forest, Gujarat.

Get a close shave from a street-side stall.

Instagram the Valley of Flowers Yumthang in Sikkim.

Catch the endangered snow leopard at Hemis National Park, Kashmir.

Ride the Mumbai local trains, or at least the Delhi metro.

Have a vodka shot pani puri.

Go water-skiing in Goa or heli-skiing in Manali.

Go on a frozen river trek to Zanskar.

Take a dip in the pool below Kempty Falls, Mussoorie.

Explore the Golden Temple, the most sacred place for Sikhs, in Amritsar.

Top Gun fan? Attend the Aero Show in Yelahanka, Bangalore.

Bungee jump at Mohan Chatti, Rishikesh.

Attend a public audience with the Dalai Lama at Dharamsala.

Get onto a yak and safari along the Singelila Range.

Help take a solar light to rural India https://pollinategroup.org/

Try to spot India’s national bird, the peacock.

AUGUST 2019 21

SPECIAL FEATURE

Eat food off a banana leaf in Trivandrum.

See a sand sculpture by Orissa artist Sudarsan Pattnaik.

Visit Mahabodhi Temple at Bodhgaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visit Salman Rushdie’s ancestral home in Solan.

Watch the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi.

Embark on an elephant or camel safari.

Spot the elusive tiger at Ranthambore National Park.

Spot the dabbawallahs in action in Mumbai.

Visit the oldest restaurant in India, Karim’s in Old Delhi.

Learn yoga in Rishikesh.

Watch baby Olive Ridley turtles as they crawl towards the sea in Orissa.

Join the Clean Ganges movement.

Travel like royalty on the Palace on Wheels.

View St Francis Xavier’s casket in Goa.

Hear the musical pillars at the southern temples.

Stock up on those gorgeous pashmina shawls.

22 AUGUST 2019

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COMMUNITY

Calling all faujis National Defence Academy Alumni Assn (Aus) incorporated in Victoria

T

aking their cue from other NDA Alumni Associations around India, the first overseas chapter of National Defence Academy Alumni Association (Australian Chapter) was launched recently in Victoria.

The first Annual General Meeting of the recently incorporated chapter was held in Canberra last month and attended by office bearers elected to steer the committee.

According to Col Rajesh Kaswan, Secretary NDAAA(AC) the main purpose of establishing this alumni chapter is to provide support to its members by creating avenues for professional and social networking. (ndaaaac.org.au) NDAAA(AC) also aims to provide resettlement assistance to NDA alumni planning to migrate to Australia and if required, provide support to NDA alumni settled in Australia.

NDA is the prestigious Joint Services academy of the Indian Armed Forces, where cadets of the three services, the Army, the Navy and the Air Force train together. Established in 1954 and based in Khadakwasla, Pune, Maharashtra, it is the first tri-service academy in the world.

After completion of the three-year gruelling course, the cadets go on to their respective service academies for further

pre-commissioning training. NDA alumni have led and fought in every major war/ battle including UN missions and won a large number of gallantry awards and peacetime awards.

Starting with only a handful of members, the NDAAA(AC) is growing in numbers with more alumni completing their service obligations and choosing to settle in Australia and the surrounding Oceania region.

“After much hard work and dedication

and meeting all the legal requirements of the Consumers Affairs Victoria, we are pleased to officially establish this chapter and I look forward to meeting all the ex-NDA officers desirous of joining us”, said Lt.Col (Dr) AK Sinha, President of NDAAA(AC).

The current office bearers include Major Rajiv Seth as Vice President and Lt Col AK Nayyar as Treasurer. The group regularly conducts official and social meetings and

hosts visiting dignitaries from the Indian Armed Forces who are on official visits to Australia.

The NDA is a source of great pride and inspiration as a centre of excellence for grooming future leaders. The vast experience, training, and service experience of its alumni continues to inculcate the tenets of camaraderie and the spirit of its motto Seva Paramo Dharma (Service before self).

Safer communities: A call for an interfaith perspective Photo: HanTran Photography

P

romoting respectful relationships to enhance safety and wellbeing was the primary focus at Whitehorse Council’s "Call to Action" Interfaith forum, held at Box Hill Town Hall recently.

The event provided an opportunity for pooling combined experience of faith and community leaders from Monash, Whitehorse, Manningham and Bundoora to generate ideas to prevent family violence.

Round table discussions were held to encourage collaboration and cooperation within interfaith communities to promote effective responses and advocate for change.

Questions were encouraged from the floor engaging interaction around resources, networks and knowledge within the diverse faith communities.

Acknowledging the challenges and opportunities for capacity building for primary intervention within faith settings, the forum highlighted the importance of mutually enforcing strategies to prevent violence.

Anissa Gracie, Community Safety Officer from Manningham Council spoke from her personal experience as a child who suffered from family violence. As a panel member she also responded to questions

around complexities of addressing gender issues including patriarchal paradigms within faith traditions.

Tarang Chawla, Our Watch Ambassador, Survivor advocate and commentator provided a man's perspective whilst sharing the story of his sister Nikita's murder caused by a violent partner. He provided statistics around the escalating issues of violence against women and called for leaders to step up and drive change in cultures, behaviours and power

imbalances leading to it.

Collectively those present agreed that underlying and precipitating factors of violence need to be addressed and faith communities can support one another in prevention activities by promoting respect.

"Respect and positive behaviours need to be role modelled to achieve equalities," said Dilnaz Billimoria who was instrumental in getting the diverse faith communities together.

An interesting activity around the

broader meaning of respect and safety kept everyone engaged.

The event attracted a large and diverse participation from representatives of various faiths.

Resource Information mini booklets were also handed out with contacts and details of organisations and services in various councils that can assist in counselling, support and intervention.

Shashi Kochhar, chairperson of Monash Interfaith Gathering, found the speakers to be excellent. "They were able to tell their stories that resonated with many," he said when asked to provide feedback. "However I was unsure of what to take home as a message/moral from their stories and wasn't clear on what we need to adopt in our day-to-day lives to make a difference in the community."

According to him this universal topic needs much thinking, respect and understanding, and has to go beyond being a tick-the-box exercise. "Overall as a group we are on the right track; however our focus now needs to be on actions and adjustments. I am positive if we keep working together with a genuine desire to make changes, we will notice the changes in society within our lifetimes," he concluded.

Preeti Jabbal AUGUST 2019 23

SPARKLING WHITE SMILE ELLENBROOK ULTIMATE PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING EXPERIENCE – DIRECT TO YOU

Tejinder Kaur invested in the Sparkling White Smile Ellenbrook franchise after following the journey of Sparkling White Smile founder, Alison Egan. Tejinder, who is a qualified nurse was first introduced to the mobile teeth whitening service after reading an online news story about Alison, who was also studying nursing when she dreamt up the idea for Sparkling White Smile.

“I was really inspired by the success of Alison, after learning she had a similar career background to myself. I began following

While dentists work with 30% peroxide solutions, Tejinder uses 6% peroxide, offering a much healthier solution to cosmetic teeth whitening. Signature treatments are also broken down into 25 minute sessions, meaning teeth sensitivity is little to none in comparison to dentist in-chair whitening. The procedure takes around an hour and a half, with no preparation needed.

“In terms of aftercare, the only rule is no red wine, coffee or anything with artificial/ deep colour. I also always suggest my clients top up every month to keep their smiles sparkling and radiant,” she concluded.

Tejinder’s mobile treatments have taken Perth by storm, with no signs of slowing. She offers two signature treatments; The Triple Treatment and The Ultra White Treatment, starting at $300 for single bookings.

Sparkling White Smile on Instagram and after seeing the technicians out on the road, meeting new clients, offering them an amazing service and having so much fun whilst doing it, I knew I had to be part of it”

@sparklingwhitesmile.ellenbrook 0420 615 797

Tejinder said.

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Tejinder has been able to tailor her offering to best service her community, as the only Western Australian Sparkling White Smile franchisee who is fluent in Punjabi, Hindi and English.

THE TEAM पश्चिमी सिडनी हवाईअड्डा फोरम ड्रॉप-इन जानकारी सेशन और मीटिंग

Carl Buhariwala

पश्चिमी सिडनी �ंतर्राष्ट्रीय (नैन्सी-बर्ड वॉ�्टन) हवा��ड्डे के �िए प्रमु� समुदाय स�ाह सम�ह� पश्चिमी सिडनी हवा��ड्डा फोरम (एफ�डब्�्य�एसए) �Foru� on Western Sydney Airport (FOWSA)] शनिवार 7 सितंबर को एक ड्रॉप-इन जानकारी सेशन के �िए समुदाय को आमंत्रित कर रहा है।

Saroja Srinivasan

Beheshta Wasseh

Usha Ramanujam Arvind

इसमें शामि� होने के �िए रजिस्ट्रेशन कराना �र�री है �र गै�री में बै�ने के �िए सीमित सुवि�ा उप�ब्� है।

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Dhanya Samuel

Puneet Anand

Dilip Jadeja

Sai Narayan

Mohan Thite

Niraj Pandya

Deepa Gopinath

Sukesh Thapliyal

Raweena Raval

Royston Rebello

Neha Malude

Tarini Puri

Aparna Ananthuni

Farzana Ahmad

Uttam Mukherjee

Dipanjali Rao

Sunila Vig

Nanditha Suresh

Darshak Mehta

Sukrit Sabhlok

Anup Kumar

Priyanka Tater

Emie Roy

Petra O’Neill

Avi Chandiok

Virat Nehru

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Jyoti Shankar

Mohan Dhall

Mital Parekh

Saroni Roy

ur o gy

Frankey Gerard Fernandes

Sagar Mehtrotra

Rajni Anand Luthra

in l l te

Yesha Joshi

Sydney Srinivas

Neelam Vasudevan

LP Ayer

e it m Astha Singh

Rani Jahla

को� भी सवा� जमा करने के �िए 1 सितंबर �01� तक FOWSA@infrastructure.gov.au पर �मे� भेजें।

24 AUGUST 2019

Pawan Luthra

Charuta Joshi

जानकारी सेशन के बाद न�वीं एफ�डब्�्य�एसए मीटिंग आयोजित की जाएगी। यह सभी �ोगों के दे�ने के �िए �ु�ी रहेगी �र इसमें पह�े से जमा किए गए समुदाय से संबं�ित सवा�ों का जवाब देने के �िए 30 मिनट शामि� होंगे।

Ritam Mitra

Kashif Harrison

Sahibnoor Singh

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Gaurav Masand

Simren Samrai

Vish Chilumkurti

Kalyani Wakhare

Raka Sarkhel

Nikita Kulkarni

Vinaya Rai

Komal Utsav Jagad

Preeti Jabbal

Dinesh

Radhika Bhatia

Devna Luthra

इस जानकारी सेशन के �िए रजिस्ट्रेशन की आवश्यकता नहीं है।

Minnal Khona

Kira SpucysTahar

Anubhuti Madan Singh

शनिवार, 7 सितंबर, 2019 सुबह 10 बजे – दोपहर 1 बजे कैंपबेलटाउन आरएसएल कारबेरी लेन, कैंपबेलटाउन

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Shafeen Mustaq

Sandeep Hor

�गर आप एफ�डब्�्य�एसए के सदस्यों से मि�ने �र हवा��ड्डे तथा इससे संबं�ित प्रोजेक्टों के बारे में �र ��िक जानकारी पाने में दि�चस्पी र�ते�र�ती हैं� तो इसका विवरण नीचे दिया गया है:

और अधिक जानकारी के लिए इस साइट पर जाएँ: www.westernsydneyairport.gov.au/fowsa फ़ोन: 1800 038 160 ईमेल: FOWSA@infrastructure.gov.au

Grahak Cunningham

Hamida Parkar

Nisha Joseph

Aneeta Menon

Sudarshan Arvind

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SCREEN Photos: Nat Rogers

Being safe online Kavitha Anandasivam impresses in her debut role on SBS TV show BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

I

t’s being described as a show that should be seen by parents of all high school kids. SBS TV’s new four-part series The Hunting is based on the stresses and strains of late adolescence, played out under the dehumanising effects of social media.

At a time when raging hormones turn high schoolers into troubled beings, their parents are dealing with their own developmental issues in their particular stage of life. The young ones seek outlet in online activity, a ubiquitous aspect of modern day teen life, even as their older counterparts struggle to understand the new forms of media.

Throw into the mix some migrant dilemma, and you have a TV series.

Adelaide-based South Asian actor Kavitha Anandasivam plays one of two high school students caught up in imagebased sexual abuse. An innocent flirtation mushrooms into the unthinkable, no thanks to the online phrase “pics or it didn’t happen.”

Devastating effects ensue for the families and the schools involved.

Is there much sexting, sharing and commenting going on in high school these days, we ask Kavitha, a Year 11 student herself.

“Sexting is definitely rampant,” she tells Indian Link. “Not so sure about the sharing and commenting…. but yes I’ve heard about real life examples of image-based sexual abuse.”

Are young people aware about issues such as consent?

“There’s not much discussion about consent. Only about sex. It’s not ingrained in us. But I think most people know it’s important…”

Her answer is alarming, and brings home the fact loud and clear that this is, as the show portends to highlight, one of the pressing issues of our time as far as young adults are concerned.

How much do parents talk to their kids about “safe” behaviour online and otherwise, we ask Kavitha.

“My own parents, not that much, but they spoke to my older brother a lot.

And he in turn talked to me about cyber bullying, about not having more than three people on my Snapchat, and about filters etc.”

She laughs, “He’s very protective of me.

In fact so protective that my parents had to step in and tell him to take a back seat!”

There is some talk about it all at school as well, she notes.

School is intricately involved, we learn

from the show, as this is where much of the encounters unfold. We also learn how school itself is struggling to come to terms with this new problem, grappling with issues such as policing strategy and disciplinary action.

Kavitha impresses in her debut screen role. In a mixed cast of experienced as well new actors, she is able to stand on her own admirably: convincing in her healthy integration with peers, a quiet fondness for her parents’ “ethnic” mannerisms, a gentle rebellion as she seeks to venture outside the boundaries set by them, wide-eyed wonder at new experiences, innocent playfulness with the object of her attraction, and always, always, a resolute understanding that she must do well at school. (Might be interesting to know if indeed the writers’ room took in some cultural consultation, or at least a sensitivity reading, as the diversity advocates have been demanding).

“We were six weeks in filming, all day

on some days,” Kavitha reveals. “I’d say my most memorable experience was the swimming pool scene: it’s a short scene, but we had to jump in and out of the water and it was freezing. It’s the coldest I’ve ever been – the temperature drop sent shocks through our body!”

Kavitha scored the role through her drama group SAYarts which she joined two years ago.

“I told my brother about it first ‘cos I thought he would be more supportive, being a musician (he lives and works in Berlin). But my parents encouraged me to follow my passion.”

She counts as her influences British actors Helena Bonham Carter and Brit Pack A-lister Tom Hardy. And there’s been a tiny bit of Bollywood too, her Sri Lankan background notwithstanding. “I’ve seen Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham – I thought it was entertaining but too long!”

We’ll wait and see if a talent such as hers will be lapped up by the industry, especially one that is slowly opening up to the appeal of diverse actors.

“Growing up, I saw no one on TV with my skin colour,” she observes. “I’d love to do more work in front of the camera if there are opportunities. It’s more intimate than theatre, I feel.”

And what has she learnt about herself in this entire experience?

“To trust my gut. I doubted my abilities, thinking what if I can’t do it, or reach that emotional space…but it all came through fine.”

In a show with other diverse actors, and which blends the Punjabi and the Arabic seamlessly with the English, Kavitha might well have found herself the perfect launchpad for her acting career.

Watch The Hunting every Thursday at 8.30pm on SBS, and on SBS On Demand.

AUGUST 2019 25

ENTERTAINMENT

Section 18C

A TALK time before cine A protection we division and borders cannot afford to lose BOOKS

In her podcast-turned-to-book, Kavita Puri showcases the heart-warming Australians value freedom of expression but laws against hate PLAYING THE MARKET stories of those Indians,displaced by Partition, moved speechwho are still essential to Britain

U

ntil recently, the thousands of Indians part of history... and it is no crime to be a refugee.” the mentor and the protegee together.

A flourishing society also requires more who had migrated to Britain in the wake A similar strain runs through the 23 chapters Saif and the very fine and confident than just freedom of speech; it requires of the Partition of the sub-continent, had of Puri’s book, divided into three parts - End of debutant Rohan Mehra just don’t have security, just legal system a lived in silence, perhaps wanting to bury Empire, Partition and Legacy. enoughstability, scenesa together.

In factand Rohan vibrant the ghosts of the past as they sought to make a new Take the story of Gurbaksh Garcha, “smartly buildseconomy. a better bond with Saif’s screenBY That is why freedom of in speech is not life. Two years ago, award-winning journalist and dressed in a Nehru waistcoat”, exuding gentleness wife Chitrangda Singh just one scene mATT KeAN broadcaster Kavita Puri produced a three-part and calm, “a calm that must have been tested many absolute.

In this country, protegee it is criminal tohis where the teary-eyed tells series, Partition Voices for BBC Radio 4 that won times during his time as Mayor of Lewisham, mentor’s wifewhich that sometimes disclose secrets risk the livesyou of just need to give the onesoldiers. you love a tight the Royal Historical Society’s Radio and Podcast navigating the local politics”.

Australian It is likewise ustralia is a slap. The awritten word seldom gets to Award and its overall Public History Prize. She “Gurbaksh’s home was in a picturesque village crime for a corporate executive country of great be conveyed with such unvarnished has now converted this into a similarly-titled book amid the fertile plains of the Punjab. It was a to disclose market sensitive diversity. You directness in commercial Hindi cinema “to remember the time before harmonious and tight-knit can see it in the faces of information to his mates. The where everyone either talks florid or separation so future generations community. Religious difference law protects us from slander and the people that you work over-casual. understand that there were was barely thought about. They protects privileged comments with. You can see it in A flourishing society In Baazaar the emotions are Hindus in Lahore, and Muslims in never imagined one day they made to our lawyers. the restaurants that line tightly reined-in as caustic vitriolic requires more than Amritsar”. would be separated from each let loose with not a As are a society, we recognise the main streets of our just freedom of conversations “Hindus who tied rakhis on the other,” Puri writes. care about who’s eavesdropping. that these restrictions do not towns. And you can see it wrists of their Muslim brothers, “Just before Partition, speech; it requiresMy favourite line, and the one that hurt our democracy or way in the variety of religious and Muslims who brought laddoos Gurbaksh noticed posters going security, stability,says a it all about Shakun Kothari, is of life. Indeed, we understand to their Hindu friends to celebrate up around the village incitingand cultural events the run-down Gujarati just legal systemthe andone inthat they are necessary to celebrated around the Diwali. Friends and strangers who bloodshed against the Muslims bhojanalaiya. “You think I come here a vibrant economy maintain And laws against country: Chinese New transcended hatred to commit acts his family had lived alongside for because I love theit.food?

No, the food areme nonever less forget Year, Diwali, Hanukkah, of kindness and humanity during decades. They said that anyone is terrible!hate Butspeech it helps the worst of times.It cannot just demanding India should be split necessary, Ramadan and Christmas where I came from.”because racism and be the stories of hate and violence to create Pakistan, would ‘getto name a few. bigotryof tear the heart of The brilliance theat line is never which are passed down. Even kabristan’.” that,the in treatment the absence of a national memorial,forgotten this in asocial morality tale that never our fabric.

However, though every story told to me was shattering, I And then the mayhem started, and he too fled, makeshift one, in his fourteenth-century church, pushes its righteousness into our Racism and bigotry leave of the Aboriginal face. feeling In factexiled I suspect theown veryhome. assured felt hopeful. Hopeful that people wanted these to land up in England in 1958. will actcountry as a surrogate to commemorate the people in their peoples in this stands as a chilling him - a millions very dangerous ambition to debutant director Gauravv K. Chawla stockbroker everything stories of compassion to be recognised, and that Machiavellian “But this story is not oneisGurbaksh has everreminder who died and were displaced.

Around the They do not improve the quality of thatwho tolerance always have. And knowshas thisnot better than actually enjoys his grey protagonist’s Harshad Mehta wouldtohave wanted the visceral pull of the place of your birth, and that thattalked of. It is too painful recount.

His children sign, candles are lit in riots remembrance,” Puri writes.

DIRECTOR: Gauravv K. Chawla public debate nor do they assist the wise been embraced.

The Cronulla similarly Rizwan’s wife Chitrangda Singh, who in amorality. to be.

This is Saif’s most gloriously Saifthe Alilove Khan, Rohan ofSTARRING: your ancestors, of your landMehra, remains never asked. And anyway, he did not want to the end, the sentence reads, “We have of a ballotwarmth paper. They are us Towards how quickly what we a role severely conscripted byhave the plot’s completion Saif’s blustering keeps and performed part, witty isreminds Radhika Apte,that Chitrangda Singh strong.

Hopeful these are the stories that will written expose them to things he hadmeaty witnessed.He screened the most beautiful part of this church bristling sinewiness, manages to find insidious because they attack a person achieved can be put at risk.

Shakun Kothari from falling apart even andstill wicked.

Hethe chews intomanner it exposing HHHHH survive too,” Puri writes in Partition Voices. angry at way and of the a British her redemptive to symbolize terribleinloss life, loss of mutual moment theofgrand because of their identity; their heritage.

The proposed amendments to when sacred hunger that I didn’t notice in his London-based journalist Poonam Joshi, in withdrawal. Gurbaksh calls himself an agnosticfinale. trust and loss of access to holy sites at the time of the stakes are heavily weighed They implyhim. that a person is inferior because the RacialPartition.”

Discrimination Act were against lastSikh. over-hyped outing. can’tArms recall a single notable (orWomen even her Ibook to Fight, Arms to Protest: He feels his faith in humanity has been There is on no the redemption for Shakun.

While some of theare other supporting Saif as Shakun is a true-blue Gujju of who they are. They hurtful, divisive put forward basis that the non-notable) Indian film based on the Speak Out about Conflict, quotes her mother shaken, that human beings are fragile. How little Puri concludes an hurling uplifting note, “The Heit is showman a ball ofonfire performances just don’t match up and who won’t let neo-affluence corrupt his plunging dips and giddying highs of and can lead to individuals current wording of Section Nirmal, who fled her home in Punjab and ended takes to turn them into beasts,” Puri writes. down an Partition remembers abyss,generation and enjoying every a time which the ever-brilliant Manish Choudhary cultural integrity.

He slips into Gujjustock market. Do can yoube remember entire communities feeling inappropriately upthe in England,“Partition summarised But then, it’s not only the migrants who feel18C was always when people lived moment of not it. The filmperfect, takes but great pride strugglesunwanted, in an underwritten role; fications with the unrehearsed cuteness constrains Harshad Mehta? How could you forget unvalued and our freedom of in great detail or in one sentence. But I still feel the pain. There is, for instance, the reverend in beingalongside onethe another, clued into insidecelebrated workingseach other’s Radhika Apte as Rizwan’s go-getting of tycoon, who has long ceased to be the podgy stockbroker who made second-class. speech. great distress that what happened shouldn’t have cute Canon Michael Roden fromhis Hitchin (now Canon festivals, were part one another’s of the stock market.

Yet of it never lets happiness colleague makes space for herself. In a to everyone, including own wife thousands of Indians rich overnight and Comments also In That section makes They itself-congratulation the tone of sorrows. know-all happened. I think we should talk. We should and shared culture, food, language way she tokenizes the today film’scan morality. andChancellor children. of Bristol Cathedral). then it all ended in a financial mess in come in the way of telling us the story of talk about it very openly, we should know what “In his church, by the pews...stands a modest and traditions.

A time before division, borders, revive memories of past wrongs. unlawful to do an act in today’s times you have to push your way When debutant Rohan Mehra enters no time at all?

‘When Shakun Met Rohan’. happened at that time.

And there is no distress in memorial.

It shows a map of British India with a Partition.

That is what they choose to remember As a society, we Unfortunately, few ethnic public which “is reasonably into attention. the plot as Rizwan there is no Shakun Saif Ali Khan’s Shakun Kothari’s My quibble with the rivetting script talking about did not happen to one or two red line marking 1947Rizwan division. A single A4 too, after seventy long years.” likely… to offend, insult, Kothari around.

Wetheknow recognise that groups have been spared the destiny runit.onIt the same lines.

(Nikhil Advani, Parvez Sheikh, Aseem people. happened on the a large it became a idolizes typedShakun sheet of paper on a music Makhijani and wants to bestand like explainshumiliateVishnu K. Jha of racially justified or intimidate ExceptIt that Saif as wilyscale... ruthless restrictions onSubhash free pain

A

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30 AUGUST 2014

Dandenong and Springvale

Arora) is that it takes its time in bringing another person or a group speech do not hurt persecution. Examples such of people” if “the act our democracy or as slavery in the United States and the Holocaust are well is done because of the way of life. Indeed, known. In recent times, the race, colour or national or we understand world has seen genocides in ethnic origin of the other they are necessary Rwanda and Bosnia, while person”. to maintain it. And today in North Korea There is no doubt You are apersecution soul of a is permanent laws against hate justified by that freedom of speech unchangeable nature, speech are no less racial supremacy.and if is important but it is you would live as a we soul, Together, haveyou built important because of necessary, because would never be aff ected or a vibrant, rich and diverse the role it plays in our racism and bigotry changed by outer changes. democracy. Freedom tear at the heart of society. A society not focused on Singh the differences between of speech ensures that our social-Sant fabricBaljit us, but founded on the when you or I go to the Nurture your spiritual life strengths our differences ballot box we can make through meditation on the afford us. Section 18C an informed decision inner Light (Jyoti) and Sound stands, not as a threat to about who to vote for.

(Naad) and realise your true freedom speech,are but free. as a protector of Freedom of speech is necessary so that as self. Allofevents the purposes which that freedom serves, and a community, we can debate political ideas for further information as a guard to an achievement exceptional in and so that individuals can have a say on 1800 462 193 this time and rare in times before. decisions that affect them. Sant Baljit Singh www.knowthyself.org Matt Kean is the Member for Hornsby and Section 18C ensures that everyone has a Parliamentary Secretary for Communities. role to play in that debate.

Know Thyself as Soul

www.indianlink.com.au

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L I N K I N G I N D I A W I T H AU S T R A L I A MEDIA GROUP

Diwali Art Competition Design INDIAN LINK’S Diwali card and

WIN PRIZES!

TWO categories: Kids up to 7 years, Kids 8-12 years.

WIN book vouchers valued at $75 and $50 in both categories.

PLUS The winning entry will be designed into Indian Link’s Diwali cards for the year 2019.

USE THIS DESIGN AS A TEMPLATE TO COLOUR IN OR PAINT A MANDALA. PHOTOCOPY IT IF YOU NEED TO. Send in your work, along with your name, age, address and phone number, to: Indian Link, GPO Box 108 , Sydney 2001.

Last date for submission 1 Oct 2019 For more details, ring the Indian Link office on 02 9290 1855, or email media@indianlink.com.au AUGUST 2019 27

FINE DINING

Photos courtesy: Daughter In Law

Perfect daughter-in-law Jesse Singh's latest "unauthentic Indian" venture is a gastronomical delight BY PREETI JABBAL

T

here may be no manuals to be a perfect daughter-in-law but Jesse Singh and his team come remarkably close with their newly launched Indian cuisine restaurant in the heart of Melbourne city.

After successfully operating Babu Ji and Horn Please in Melbourne and Don’t Tell Aunty in Sydney, Jesse Singh has opened this fun new place that is gastronomically promising. From his newest venture, cheekily named Daughter In Law (DIL), you can expect a well-rounded culinary experience that is layered with distinct and palpable flavours and genuine warmth to win hearts.

No table-side theatrics, no kitschy décor and no promises of authentic Indian food, sets this restaurant in Little Bourke Street, apart from others. From its rose pink walls, blue-green velvet seats, large pot plants to massive entertainment screen,

28 AUGUST 2019

the fit-out at DIL is uncomplicated with a quirky aesthetic appeal.

We walked in to the welcome sight of a well-equipped bar. The men went straight for their single malts while we girls tried the innovative cocktails and chose from the wine list curated by Sacha Imrie from Marion Wine.

Jesse Singh joined us, graciously posed for photos on special request and happily responded to our curiosity. Why unauthentic, why the name Daughter in Law, we asked.

“What exactly is authentic Indian?” he asked us in return.

“For most of us, authentic Indian is the food that our mothers and grandmothers cooked and it can be so diverse. My Punjabi mother will cook the same thing vastly different to yours, so our ‘authentic’ may not be the same. That is why I say unauthentic Indian on the door to set the expectation right from the word go.”

According to Jesse, the name Daughter In Law is a tribute to the young women

who get married and leave their homes and family to become part of another. They are brave as they adopt and adapt to their new household and new relationships.

“They are accepting of the new traditions, culture and rules. At the same time they bring their own flavours to this equation.

They can be creative and experimental and that’s what we stand for,” shared Jesse.

True to claim, DIL’s honest, flavourdriven menu is carefully crafted to include Punjabi curries and Mumbai street food on one hand, and beef tartare and scallop ceviche on the other.

There is blue cheese naan to wake things up and Colonel Tso’s cauliflower that has both crunch and tang. A vivid

and varied thali gives a taste of different options. So does the tasting menu.

The secret is house-roasted spices, no shortcuts and quality ingredients, according to Jesse. “Our chefs make and source everything themselves: every sauce, every bread, every marinade is made in house,” he claimed with pride.

Scrumptious grilled prawns from the famed Santa Maria Grill, oysters in green mango pickle followed by Tandoori corn peppered with popcorn, the food kept coming till we were ready to burst.

Finally, the beetroot juice with Mezcal and black salt provided some much needed unction. I could happily drink this for supper, or dessert, or breakfast if that were an option. Perfect for my iron deficiency.

And just as we thought we couldn’t stomach another morsel, we were tempted with stick wali creamy kulfi and rabdi thrumming with decadence.

I completely retracted my earlier statement that the single piece of golgappa (“Ball of Happiness” that lives up to its name) was a rather stingy serve. Given the variety that we tried it was just right in portion, as a teaser.

On my first visit I couldn’t fault anything in terms of service, food, atmosphere or music (loved the ‘70s Hindi pop songs). Some in our large group found the prices a bit steep, but the overall consensus was that it was good value for money.

I sincerely hope that this place continues offering a quality experience even after its opening months. In the meantime, I will definitely be returning for some more Aap Jaisa Koi Meri Zindagi Mein Aye and Rambha HoHo!

www.indianlink.com.au

FORETELL

August 2019

BY MINAL KHONA Minal Khona has been reading tarot cards for the last two decades. She uses her intuition and connect with the cards mostly to help people.

TAROT

ARIES March 21 - April 19

TAURUS April 20 - May 20

GEMINI May 21 - June 20

CANCER June 21 - July 20

A phase of planning for Arians, as any move you make needs some thought.

An unexpected encounter brings profits.

Watch out for that needy soul who enters your life – they could be already married.

A position of power at works gives you renewed confidence. Eat high energy foods to boost your health. Profits in business are on the rise. A good month, as you get an opportunity to advance your career and a positive change in your love life is predicted too.

If you are in a healing mode, this month is when you can focus on self-improvement and self-love. Once you nurture yourself, the right kind of significant other also comes along. A personal dilemma works out positively. Marriage could be in the offing.

You binge on food but beware of overdoing the liquor. An emotionally charged incident at home involving a family member or pet could upset you. Decisive actions lead to great improvements all around.

Change is on the anvil, in a big way. You plan to get organised on the work and family front; this includes letting go of a relationship that doesn’t feel right. A business venture might fail, and money owed to you is delayed. Take care of your health as respiratory problems could besiege you. Your feelings of anxiety make you turn inward or ask friends for advice. Clarity into an obscure situation will lead to success. The unknown leads to new opportunities.

You focus on your inner life this month; paying attention to emotions, intuition, self-expression and just being. Travel for work or pleasure is predicted. Those trying for a baby could get pregnant.

Money is blocked and comes in phases.

Those in creative fields should make a push to fulfil their dream project. Listen to your body for better health. A stressful period comes to an end. Success comes through a positive change in attitude and trusting your heart.

LEO July 21 - Aug 22

VIRGO Aug 23 - Sep 22

LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21

Partial success is predicted, but it is also a period of waiting, learning, assimilation and applying one’s knowledge. To avoid emotional entanglements, you put love on the shelf for now. A long distance trip gets cancelled. Though business is slow, it will pick up substantially. If you have been ill, you will recover. If you’ve made a decision, stick to it till you attain your goal. It is a period of gestation, so not all changes are on the surface.

Virgos could be influenced by an Aries personality this month - which means they could take bold decisions, be more driven and optimistic. Loosen up and ask for help instead of bottling your emotions. Making contacts professionally will bring results in the long term. Work and travel keep you busy and business will improve. Those looking to marry could receive a proposal. Tension headaches and backaches could besiege you. Your biggest success comes through new ventures and your ability to communicate.

A difficult month for Librans as there could be conflicts, setbacks and unforeseen problems. Be prepared for inward and outward struggles with yourself after taking a major decision. Disappointments cause frustration. A recurring illness or physical problem causes discomfort. Unfortunately, it is here to stay. Money is sufficient though you worry about it. Stay positive and don’t allow any inconsistency to get the upper hand. Be self-reliant and something you have wanted for a long time will come to you.

It is all about inner manifestations this month, choices of the heart, deep feelings and friendships. Be clear about what you seek in a relationship if you want it to progress. A short trip could be a very pleasant one. At work, you seek wider horizons and a large audience, someplace where visibility ensures success. Health - yours or a loved one’s - is a matter of concern. Money comes in through work that you like and a financial problem goes away.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21

CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan 19

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18

PISCES Feb 19 - March 20

There is positive change in the offing. You search for a sense of purpose even as an event inspires you to look for love. Disillusionment at work might make you look for another job. Medical tests are in the offing, but you get to the root of a chronic health problem.

Financial gains are expected. A new method or ability you discover will help at work. You make great strides in your long term professional goals.

Practical idealism, status and employment keep Capricornians busy this month. Your desire to make more money or success is stonewalled. A friend plays match maker or helps you in a business endeavour.

Choking sensations, backaches or tummy issues could besiege you. Don’t hold back, and say what you should. Money will be slow coming in. Be willing to listen to and act upon new ideas. Someone will help you make a change for the better with a new approach.

August is for introspection and solitude for Aquarians. There could be unexpected gains. A situation causes anxiety and depression and you will re-evaluate your goals and life itself. Disappointment in love is predicted. Someone will help you turn a negative situation into a positive one. A deep-seated depression makes you indifferent towards people and events.

Nervous exhaustion and extreme anxiety make you unable to handle anything that is mentally, physically or emotionally taxing.

New ideas lead to a successful outcome.

Work and the corporate life take up your time this month. You could meet someone special through work or in a social environment. An offer of work, a financial gift or assistance is a pleasant surprise. Holding out for what you want in a relationship will be the right decision. If you’ve been ill, you will recover. Someone you know could have a drinking problem. Financial conditions improve. Luck is on your side with everything at work, so take those risks.

AUGUST 2019 29

BACKCHAT

You can take an Indian out of India…

What Independence Day means to us now

M

any years ago, when packing my bags to leave for Australia for the very first time, my father slipped something into one of my suitcases. It was a small badge with the Indian flag on it.

Such actions are not unusual for my father. He is proud of his country. He served in the Indian Navy. My brother and I grew up watching the Republic Day parade, the Independence Day celebrations at Delhi’s Red Fort and saluting the Indian flag.

But I’d never thought about being Indian until I boarded the flight for Sydney. I remember unpacking in my new room in Randwick, my things still smelling of home, and finding the little badge with the Indian flag there. It came to me very suddenly then - I was in this new world on my own, many many miles from home.

Since then, Australia has become my home.

I’ve found love here and friendship, opportunities to do meaningful work and make a contribution.

I’d be lying if I said that over the years I’d never experienced that feeling of being caught between two worlds, of somehow having fallen through the cracks. Of belonging neither here nor there.

But over the years, I’ve come to understand that it isn’t about divided loyalties as it is about acceptance. It isn’t about being one or the other.

It’s about being both.

26 January, the day we celebrate Australia and being Australian is also India’s Republic Day, the day on which the Constitution of India came into effect. I take this day to celebrate my Australian identity and the life that I have built here.

Come 15 August, though, I’ll think of my father and of India, and wear my badge very proudly.

Aparna Jacob

MATRIMONIALS

Young, Singapore. Caste no bar. Only child in family, both parents are doctors.

Please contact lalitm67@gmail.com, phone 0411 058 064 Seeking professionally qualified well settled match from Sydney for ’88born, 5"3" Hindu Punjabi girl, divorced (concluded) with brief marriage of 1.5 years. Working full time with a leading University in Sydney. Pref teetotaller. Aus PR or citizen only.

Email:matrimonial.ml@gmail.com

SEEKING BRIDES

SEEKING GROOMS Beautiful, highly educated (very good family background), soft spoken, careeroriented 33-year-old vegetarian Brahmin girl, working, well settled in Sydney, seeks an educated matchm teetotaller with good family background. Prefer Australian citizen or PR. Please contact rajsyd83@gmail.com Seeking well-settled boy in Australia (businessman or professional) for a Hindu Khatri (never married) India-based girl, 5'3", beautiful, slim, very fair, vegetarian, post-graduate, December 1985 born.

Currently in Australia (visitor’s visa).

Brother settled in Melbourne.

Contact +61 456 604 747, or email 9gannu@gmail.com Seeking groom for my niece, beautiful, 30, 5’ 5”, fair, pleasing personality, Management Consultant in Ernst and 30 AUGUST 2019

Seeking match for educated, well settled Gujarati boy with own home in Sydney, earning 180+k per annum, divorced, 5’9", 1980 born, Australian citizen. Looking for Citizen/PR match ONLY preferably from Sydney.

Phone 0490 970 281 (leave message if busy) or email patelbrij1980@gmail.com Professional match for Punjabi boy, 34, 5'11", fair, B.Com/BBA, Chartered Accountant, Australian citizen, working as Manager with a major bank in Sydney. Girl should be Hindu, 26 to 32, professionally qualified, Australian citizen or PR, and must be Sydney based. Please send photo & details tosanjdeep6@gmail.com.

Match intercaste, for Hindu Kayasth 32, 5'8”, teetotaller, MBA, Axis Bank Manager, Jaipur, India. May shift to Australia. Never married. Looking for Indian/Australian citizen girl. Should be professionally qualified, vegetarian.

Email: gsbhatnagar16@gmail.com or risi1986@yahoo.com.

Phone: +919828536328 or +919660934538

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32 AUGUST 2019

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