2021-02 Melbourne

All things Indian. In Australia.

MELBOURNE I FEBRUARY 2021 I FREE

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EDITORIAL

nwan e ann1versar •

PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra CONTRIBUTORS Rhea L Nath, Bageshri Savyasachi, Jyoti Shankar, Manan Luthra, Smita Nashikkar, Sandip Hor, Anuja Vijay, Shyamal Bhatia, Mina! Khona, Auntyji SALES Charuta Joshi

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

BY PAWAN LUTHRA t was on 11 March 2020 that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a panden1ic. By that date, the coronavirus which had originated in Wuhan, China, had spread to over 110 countries infecting over 118,000 people. The concerns of WHO were justified.

As we go to print, there are 107 1nillion cases reported globally, with 2,335,308 people dead from this virus.

Leading these statistics is the United States, with over 27.5 million cases and 476,000 dead (1.85 per cent of cases).

India has had 11,000,000 reported cases with 156,000 dead (1.4 per cent of cases); Brazil reported 9,550,000 cases with 2.4 per cent dead, and Russia documented 4,000,000 cases with 1.7 percent dead. UK has a death rate of 2.82 per cent of its reported cases. India has far fewer deaths - but also one of the lowest testing rates (145,000 per million people).

Australia has had 28,857 cases reported with 909 deaths. At 3.15 per cent, the death rate is a full percentage

point above the global average.

Eventually analysis will be undertaken as to why an island country such as ours got it so wrong, and why we punched much above our weight in an area we did not want.

COVID-19 also tested our politicians, and our faith in politics. One re1narkable political fatality, Donald Trump, could not articulate or lead with a plan to tackle the virus. The debate is on whether Trump would have lost the 2020 elections were it not for COVID-19. Other authoritarian leaders like Russia's Vladimir Putin and Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro both led from behind on this issue. Indian leadership had a peculiar way of handling the virus, with chants and drums to drive it away.

Australia moved fast to close its international borders, but individual states erred with lapses in implementation of the isolation strategy.

The infamous Ruby Princess cruise ship and then lax hotel quarantine issues exposed local communities to the virus. Knowing that this was a no-win situation, the Federal government sat this one out, while allowing the States to make their own decisions. As expected, the states split along party lines, with the Labor states more draconian in their love for the nation. (One premier

even stated he would open his state's borders only when the coronavirus was eradicated.)

The Australian share market hit a low of 4,403 points early, on 23 March.

Media predicted gloom and doom, and many investors pulled their investments out from the plunging markets. The share markets defied all pundits, and fuelled by cheap credit and new opportunities emerging in tech stocks, the All Ords now stands at 6,850 points, up about 55 per cent from its low points.

It just reminds one that it is time in the market which works, not timing the market.

The shining stars have been the frontline workers who worked long hours at testing sites while scientists scrambled to understand what the virus was all about. Pharma companies threw all their might towards finding a vaccine, and began rolling them out in under a year.

As the Australian rollout begins - after many other countries - we're seeing so1ne hesitation in our own Indian­ Australian community. Is it the quick turnaround or seemingly insufficient testing of the vaccine? Whatever the case, at this point in time, better strategy and leadership are needed to allay such concerns.

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NATIONAL EDITION

FEBRUARY 2021 3

SPECIAL FEATURES AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS Dr Anand Naidoo, Dr Amarjit Singh More, Robert Johanson

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NEWSMAKERS Tanveer Sangha: National debut

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EXPATS Karl Rock: A Kiwi in India

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RENTING When the neighbours complain about curry

FIRST PERSON The night we left our home in Kashmir

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NATIONAL EDITION

FEBRUARY 2021 5

YOUR SAY

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BREAKING THE GABBA STREAK

RITAM MITRA on how a battered India pulled off the greatest Test series win of all time.

Prem Verma wrote: Really inspiring.

Mohinuddin Choudhry wrote: It was a well contested match. Well done, Team India.

Gurmeet Kalsi wrote: SERIES SORTED. Paine, we saw you at Gabba.

Ananya Hazra wrote: First win for India after 1988 in Gabba... What a match it was. We are proud of the young Indian team. Jai Hind.

Bharathlya Jayarathne wrote: Great win. Continue captaincy with Rahane.

Chakrapanl Rao wrote: At this rate, our superstars who were injured and who attended other duties may not find a place in the team. Why were such young talents waiting in the wings for a long time?

Blswadeep Sinha wrote: Now the question is whether the rookies will be allowed to play more Test cricket, after Kohli comes back.

Harsha Arora wrote: The Bollywood film on this Test series will be a blockbuster.

Robert Gardlnl wrote: A tribute to self-belief, courage, and persistence.

Vaanle Krishnan wrote: Indefatigable Cheteshwar Pujara!

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AUSSIE CRICKET FAN, 91, APOLOGISES TO SIRAJ

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BAGESHRI SAWASACHI reported on veteran cricket fan Claude Curry who rang our offices to apologise to Mohammed Siraj after reports of racial abuse surfaced at the SCG. Prem Bhardwaj wrote: Good one. There are always nice people around.

Appreciated.

Bhagwandass Gursahaney wrote: We support Mohammed Siraj and condemn those who passed remarks of racial discrimination against our young rising player.

Sudin Kamat wrote: One of the nice fellows.

Solomon Raj wrote: One can't afford to blame the Aussie fans enmasse for this kind of racist mentality. Only a handful of rogue elements indulge in this shameless practice. If it continues, even other national teams will hesitate to tour Australia.

Sherwin Dias wrote: Good, better late than never.

Deepu Dharmarajan wrote: Based on some people's behaviour, we cannot judge all! So many good hearts in Australia.

Rohit Jaggi wrote: 9NEWS and 7NEWS, why don't you share this news?

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SAY IT AGAIN 6 FEBRUARY 2021

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WHEN STRONG TASTE= STRONG SMELL

After neighbours complained about the strong smell of Indian cooking, RHEA L NATH discussed what we, and you, can do about it.

Pheroza Dauwalla wrote: Love, love, love Indian Link - thank you. Had to share Rhea's article on "smelly foods". Wonderfully written and a real eye opener. Loved that you offered tips to reduce smells and did not go overboard on the outrage. Keep up the fabulous work .

Akshay Kulkarni wrote: We actually had to stop cooking Indian food in our Houston house when we were trying to sell it. The people that came by to see the house would complain about the smell.

Rlshab Shankar wrote: These are the people who complain about the mayo being spicy.

Betty Jager wrote: I myself love all the smells of different foods from different cultures. The one complaining needs to stop and mind their business.

Rakhl Joshi wrote: Even in Mumbai some buildings do not allow non­ vegetarian food (to be cooked or delivered). Flats are sold or leased with this clause in such building societies. Individual choice! Look for a secluded home.

Amal Ral wrote: Curry smell doesn't kill anyone. I think it is ok. There is no law saying food smell has to be locked in your room!

Ambarlsh Natu wrote: The real issue on hand is the poor design of buildings in Australia in general - that includes kitchen exhausts and ventilation systems. The Australian Standards and the BCA standards need an amendment to address this matter. The builders have been getting away with cheap constructions designs for fortune of a price for way too long now!

Burjor Banajl wrote: (The Indian tenant in this story) has every right to complain.

YB Yoshi wrote: Northeast Indians face these problems in mainland Indian cities ... We have to hide (to) cook (our food).

Nathan Nalewabau wrote: That is what you call racist.

Acarynidhi Das wrote: The complainant is logical and justified. Despite all knowledge, Indians still use lots of garlic and onion which are considered food in ignorance mode. I too can't stand the pungent smell from the neighbour's house. Food tastes better without onion and garlic. If you don't believe me, check out with any Hare Krsnas.

Venkatesh Paramasivan wrote: The neighbours' concerns are valid. Our curry smell might be pleasing for us as we have gotten used to it since childhood and we may not even feel it, but it might be difficult for people of other cultures. It's a reasonable concern and not bigoted or racist at all.

Even in my home country, some veg communities prefer not to have non veg communities living in the same building. While it's not illegal, it's a practiced norm, maybe because the smell of meat (troubles them). So they've got a point. We need to manage these differences and sometimes one side has to compromise more than the other.

Gautam Nath wrote: What an apt article! Well written and to point. Where we live in Canada, recently landed newcomers live in tiny homes and the food smell gets onto their clothes and heavy woollen jackets, so become walking incense sticks.

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Devastating news for India and @narendramodi following flash flooding in Uttarakhand. Australia stands with one of its closest friends at this very difficult time.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister of Australia

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What else can a fortified city and blocking internet access represent other than a barricaded and diminished democracy?

Ed Roy, writer

When a person of colour speaks publicly about racism we know it has taken a lot - not of courage, but a lot of racism.

Thus, when they speak, it is not enough just to believe or sympathise with them; we must act, immediately. All of us.

Chelsea Watego, academic

If you don't think white supremacy is real, Emily in Paris is nominated for a Golden Globe.

Kimberly Drew,

writer

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There are 1,212 pillars, each intricately carved, in this temple corridor, believed to be the longest of its kind in the world.

Which temple, built in its current form in the 12th century, are we talking about?

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#WHEREININDIA

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Readers Shabu Thomas and Chandra Kishore guessed it right: Ramnathswamy Temple in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu.

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DIWALI 'NOT PART OF AUSTRALIAN CULTURE"?

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KRISHNA NEELAMRAJU reported on Western Sydney Mayor Steve Christou's divisive comments that Diwali and the Lunar New Year are "not part of Australian culture", and ratepayers should not foot the bill for these events.

Charlshma Kallyanda wrote: Well done Indian Link for highlighting the hypocrisy of Cumberland Council Mayor in posing for photo opps with culturally diverse communities when it suits him but failing to unite and support our communities when it counts most.

Alan Mascarenhas wrote: The mayor also dissed Diwali, which is such an important part of our tradition in Parramatta and Cumberland. To represent his community, he should walk the streets and understand it.

Renu Datta wrote: We will still continue to celebrate with our community of diverse colours despite these narrow-minded people.

Leyla Nubia wrote: Hypocrisy posing in that photo.

Sunll Gole wrote: Thanks, did not know that. Had wondered why there were no Diwali banners by council last year. Now I know.

Krishna Kumar Ramamoorthy wrote: The Mayor of Cumberland would do well to take a leaf out of Scott Morrison's book. The Premier has also been warm and inclusive each year at Diwali. Multiculturalism is here to stay; the Mayor should take a walk around his own suburb to find out.

Bhavln Rabarl wrote: Why do we care? The Indian saying about elephants having (separate) display teeth and chewing teeth precisely fits the politicians, so I wouldn't be affected too much by either the overt display or the absence of bonhomie. On the contrary, Hindus should continue to be ideal, hard working citizens, achieving success, creating a reputation for themselves. That's what should matter.

Joseph La Posta, CEO Multicultural NSW wrote: Nearly one in 20 Aussies today were either born in China or India. Why shouldn't we embrace Lunar New Year and Diwali? Both festivals celebrate light over darkness and beginnings and unity!

Johnny Due-Huy Nguyen wrote: This is disappointing news for someone that represents so many of those whose culture he has effectively rejected.

It's also important to note that the apology mentioned in the last line should extend beyond Australians of Indian and Chinese origin: Lunar New Year, as the name suggests, is not only celebrated by ethnically Chinese people but people from all across Asia.

Brian Mackenzie wrote: Pleased to see the term "Australians of Indian or Chinese origin". Makes a big change from those who offer origin before Australian.

Eric Roine wrote: My family come from another culture. I do not expect Australians to bow down to it. I am Australian now in Australia.

Neil Robert Darling wrote: Until COVID 19 is completely under control, they should be restricted the same as all celebrations have been.

Narturhi Karibian wrote: I believe it is Indian culture and should be celebrated and enjoyed within the Indian community and any others who want to join. This is after all a multicultural country. As a multicultural country, every ethnic group has the freedom to celebrate its own particular days of cultural celebration, and thank goodness for that.

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#WHEREINOZ

This desert is home to these uniquely natural attractions - where is it located? Readers Petra O'Nelll and Twlnkl Twlnkl had the right answer: the Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park, WA. • • • •• • • • • • • • •• • ••• •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •• • •• • • • •• •• •• • • • • • • • •• • • • •• • • • • • •

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INDIA'S 71-YEAR TEST

RITAM MITRA spoke to former Oz Test opener and ex-Cricket Australia chairman Wally Edwards about a Jong-Jost archive of Fairfax Media cricket photos, including India's early tours of Australia, which is now available as a book.

Peter Young wrote: Indian Link has made the Bradman Museum cricket books, including India's 71-Year Test launched by Ravi Shastri last week, its cover story. Paper's editorial also muses on potential impact of Syd test on Aust-India diplomatic links Aust wants to strengthen.

Jamie Parker, NSW MP wrote: Cover story on cricket history is absolutely fantastic! Well done, Ritam Mitra.

Darshak Mehta wrote: What a terrific, heart-warming project. Wally, to do something so ridiculously generous for no reason whatsoever, is true philanthropy.

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If entitled white women who complain to the manager are Karens, I think Australians can agree entitled white men who feel they're the true victims of systemic racism are now Eddies.

Benjamin Law, writer NATIONAL EDITION

After lots of time using Bing (living in countries where Google is blocked), I think I can sum up the user experience.

It's like asking for directions, and then being handed a scrunched up piece of paper with 'road' written on it.

Richard Cooke, writer & journalist

Love the idea that politicians getting the vaccine first will somehow lessen vaccine hesitancy. The only group Australians trust less are real estate salespeople and ad execs.

Osman Faruqi, podcaster

I welcome Kamal Haasan's idea of recognizing housework as a salaried profession, with the state govt paying a monthly wage to homemakers. This will recognize & monetise the services of women homemakers in society, enhance their power, & autonomy & create near-universal basic income.

Shashi Tharoor, Indian MP FEBRUARY 2021 7

t-!:

YOU R DOSE OF RELIABLE INFOR �;ION ' (_, � [ . . .I Safe for new mums? Pfizer or Astra Zeneca?

Dr VYOM SHARMA answers your questions on the COVID vaccine

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r Vyom Sharn1a is a medical practitioner in Melbourne, specialising in general practice.

As a health co1nmentator, he hosts the show Radiotherapy on Triple R, writes columns in the mainstream press, and appears frequently on our TV screens, notably on ABC's Q+A and The Dru.111. His particular passion is reserved for dispelling misinformation and advocating evidence-based medicine. He sits down with Indian Link to answer frequently asked questions about the coronavirus vaccine, set to roll out this month.

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8 FEBRUARY 2021

What should I do before I get the vaccine?

There are three things you could do. First, make sure you're feeling well on the day.

Generally, if you're unwell, we don't like to vaccinate. So if you have any symptoms, ask your GP. Two, make a note of any other vaccinations you may have had recently we like to space vaccinations apart. Three, keep at hand infonnation about the things you may be allergic to.

How should J care for my elderly parents if they are getting the vaccine first?

There could be mild symptoms that could last for up to a day or two: a bit of pain where the needle went in, or perhaps tenderness; tiredness; sore muscles or aching joints. Keep your elderly parents under observation after their vaccination - best not to plan any activities.

Should I get the vaccine if I'm pregnant?

If I'm trying to fal l pregnant? If I'm a new mum?

The vaccine is not currently recommended for pregnant women. This is simply because we don't have sufficient data at this stage. We're waiting for more testing, and it is very likely that it will be recommended for them too in the future.

New mums should have no concerns whatsoever.

Trying to fall pregnant - while we don't have official guidance on this yet, it will very likely be the same advice as

new mums, unless you are looking to fall pregnant in the same cycle.

What about newborns?

The vaccine is only for people 16 years and over, at this stage. Testing for children only began much later in the piece.

What about allergic reactions?

Allergic reactions can occur due to anything, but life-threatening allergic reactions to COVlD-19 vaccines are very rare. But just in case, you'll be asked to stay for 15 minutes after being vaccinated. lf you develop any concerning signs, you can be treated immediately - we are ready for this!

What should I know about side effects?

The vaccines are incredibly safe. There could be mild side effects in the first 2448 hours like I've listed before, which are really common to all vaccinations.

Long-term side effects are rare, and most commonly pop up by the 45-day mark.

But consider this: we've had 80 million

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I had COVID and recovered. Do I still need to get vaccinated?

The general thinking is yes. The immune response that the vaccine provides can be better than the one you develop after getting COVID. But researchers are exploring whether just one shot is enough for people who've bad COVID before.

Who should NOT get the vaccine?

Those who have had proven allergy to one of the specific ingredients of the vaccine.

And that will affect a very very small number of people.

What's the difference between Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines?

Both vaccines are trying to do the same thing - teach our immune system to recognise a key part of the virus called the 'spike protein'. The vaccines both 'show' our immune system this 'spike' protein, and then the body learns to recognise it, and is ready to destroy virus it if it ever encounters it again.

Pfizer vaccine teaches our body to make a small amount of spike protein, so the in1mune system can recognise it.

AstraZeneca vaccine uses another completely harmless virus to carry the spike protein into our body.

Either way, the immune system 'sees' the spike protein, and learns to defend the body against the virus if it ever comes across it in future.

How will they decide who gets which one? Can I choose?

At this stage, most people will get the Astra Zeneca vaccine - simply because we have more of it. I don't think people will get to make an individual choice. But frankly 1 don't think it makes much difference at an individual level - I'd take the first one I can get. All the vaccines seem to be very effective at stopping life th1·eatening infections, which is fantastic news.

Can I refuse vaccination?

It is not mandatory at all. In future perhaps in some high-risk occupations Like aged or healthcare they might be mandatory but not for now. Ideally we don't want it to be mandatory - we want you to see the benefits of it for yourself. But we are very hopeful: vaccination rates are high in this country - despite the anti-vax movement gaining mon1entum recently.

What would you say to people who are saying currently they don't want the vaccine?

I'd say to them, find out more about the vaccine, from trained experts. Many people have valid concerns but in 1ny experience, once I answer their questions, they feel much more confident about getting vaccinated!

What would you say to people who say they are worried about insufficient testing? That the vaccine came out in record time and so might not be reliable?

There are several steps in the preparation of a vaccine - there are preclinical studies, then trials in Phases 1, 2 and 3, and then an approval process. Not a single step was skipped in the Lnaking of COVID vaccines.

Yes they were developed in record tin1e, but that was because there was overlap in some phases. Plus of course many of the bureaucratic and funding hurdles were removed, with a flood of resources thrown at this, given the urgency.

Wonderful things can happen when the focus is on the science.

And also, research on mRNA vaccines has been ongoing for years. What seen1s like a rapid invention was based on decades of work.

What do you know about India's vaccines Covishicld and Covaxin?

Covishield is the same as the Oxford­ AstraZeneca. Covaxin, an lndian developed vaccine, we have not seen the results of the Phase 3 trials yet. It's hard to comment on it without the full information.

A comment on India's role in manufacturing and exporting the vaccine? Can India become the 'pharmacy to the world' as is being claimed?

Absolutely. India has done a fantastic job in the pharmaceutics industry. And given the current trade tensions with China, it can definitely make a play, especially as it is seen as n1ore open.

But there are challenges, like there are every time you talk about China and India and the African nations. There are conversations about quality assurance and transparency. But for India this can be an amazing opportunity: if it can demonstrate high speed, high quality manufacturing, it can be the beginning of a new age.

The vaccinations will be rolled out in three phases Phase 1 is for those people at risk of

COVID vaccinations delivered worldwide already, and we've observed nothing of concern so far for several months.

Also, the Australian govern111ent has laid out a con1prehensive progra111 of investigation of all side effects.

How many shots will be needed?

Two, as of now. I can't tell you right now what the time gap between the two will be.

NATIONAL EDITION

After my two shots, will I continue to have to wear masks and sanitize frequently?

Yes, the current advice is to continue to wear masks and practise hand hygiene. The vaccines are very good at preventing life threatening or severe COVID-19. But could you still get a very mild infection that you pass on to others?

Maybe - we're still finding answers to this question. Until we're sure, best to wear 111asks and sanitize to keep others safe.

exposure to the virus (ie healthcare workers; aged care and disability care); those at risk of developing COVID-19 (senior citizens, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people under the age of 55, quarantine and border workers; essential workers).

Phase 2 is planned for Aboriginal

and Torres Strait Islanders adults between 18 to 54 years of age; Australians between 50-69 years of age; and other high-risk workers.

With Phase 2b, the rest of the adult population is expected to be covered.

Phase 3 will be for children "if

recommended", following evidence that they do not transmit the disease like adults.

Despite initial confusion, free access to the COVID vaccine has been assured to all visa-holders in Australia, including international students, refugees, bridging visa holders, and other temporary visitors. They are likely to be considered in Phase 2b, excepting at-risk temporary visa holders or those with existing health conditions.

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FEBRUARY 2021 11

AC C O LA D ES

OPTIM ISTIC ABOUT I N DO-OZ RELATIONS ROBERT JOHANSON, AO

For distinguished service to the banking sector, to Australia­ India relations, and to tertiary education governance and financial administration

''

always say - there's more diversity between Kash1nir and Kerala than there is between Norway and Greece," said Robert Johanson fondly as he looked back on his two dozen trips to India in the last decade.

This year, his marked con11nitment to Australia-India relations was recognised with an Australia Day honour, alongside his respected career in banking, having served on the board of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank for over 30 years.

In the field of tertiary education, too, the veteran banker has donned many hats - chairing the investment Committee and serving as Deputy Chancellor at the University of Melbourne and now, board men1ber of Melbourne Business School.

Still, he re1nains almost surprised to receive the award. " It's a great honour... Son1e might expect it, but I didn't really know I was being nominated," he admitted.

As Chairman of the Australia India Institute since 201 1 , and Chainnan of Australian Friends of Asha for Slums since 2012, he's no stranger to the Indian subcontinent. Reflecting on the relationship between the two nations, which has certainly seen its ups and downs in the 21st century, Robert looks ahead with optimism.

As he explains, diplomacy today has evolved from the days of contest between a handful of big powers.

"We're all becoming increasingly aware of the relationship with India and

Robert :Johanson with Asha health workers

IAt the Kumbh Mela Australia. As ti1ne has passed, with the changing role of the United States and developments in China, it's been itnportant for India and Australia to strengthen ties."

Having had a pivotal role in establishing the Australia India Institute, how does he envision its role in facilitating this relationship?

"Over the last 10 years, it's been an interesting experience to get involved and see how the institute deepens the engagement between India and Australia.

The institute facilitates academic research

and collaboration, but there's a broader scope as well. We've assisted when political figures like Prime Minister Modi came to visit Australia. We've helped organise exchanges and round tables. The institute recognises the crucial role of mobilising the youth," Robert elaborated.

A crucial part in thjs developing relationship, he points out, is understanding India as a "rich, diverse and complex country" with a still overwhelmingly rural population.

Through his work with Australian Friends of Asha, the Australian branch of Asha India, he has seen this first-hand.

The charitable organisation, created by Dr Ki ran Martin in 1988, addresses social, health, and education issues affecting slum dwellers in New Delhi.

The pride in Robert's voice is evident when he shares the success story of Mahinder, who was born and raised in a Delhi slum, and went on to complete his master's in computer science at the University of Melbourne in 2018.

"Over the years, we're seeing how lives are being transformed through education," Robert said.

In the case of Australia, whose tertiary education sector was shaken up when borders were closed practically overnight, he identifies a real opportunity.

"Australia became structurally reliant on international students. These overseas students contribute not just through money, but to the richness and multiplicity of universities. Out of this crisis, there's a real chance to reset."

In fact, he extends this philosophy to most aspects of life since the pandentic.

"Hopefully we don't just rush to resu1ne life as it was. It's a chance to sit back and pause. To reassess how we work, how we live, bow and what we consume, and our relationship to the environment," Robert said. "It's a chance to rediscover what's really important."

You can support the work ofAsha by visiting www.australianfriendsofashaslums.org.au

Rhea L Nath

TAKI N G M E D ICI N E TO REMOTE COMM U NITIES Dr ANAN D NAIDOO,

OAM

For service to paediatric medicine 12 FEBRUARY 2021

''

am pleased and honoured," Dr Anand Naidoo of Coffs Harbour NSW told Indian Link, about his Australia Day felicitation this year.

He added laughingly, "It never crossed my mind that I would be put up for this honour.

Wondered why anyone would bother!"

Dr Naidoo came to Australia from South Africa as a young doctor i n 1978, serving in Sydney and Coffs Harbour.

What would he say has been bis career

highlight?

"Saving n1any lives, working as a regional paediatrician. But that's what we do. If you've been in this line of work long enough, you'll have faced several situations in which you've been able to save lives and help young families."

To serve in a regional setting is another highlight, he noted, taking medicine to regional and remote communities, even though Coffs Harbour is not exactly remote.

"The advantages for rural doctors of course,

www.indianlink.com.au

A G U R U DWARA FOR ALL The late Dr AMARJIT SINGH MORE, OAM For his service to medicine, and to the local and Sikh communities of Woo/goo/go s a proud Sikh and a proud Australian, Dr Amarjit Singh More was deeply passionate about both identities, serving both communities with unwavering com1nitment.

"Our Gurus have taught us to follow a path of righteousness and truth and to create a free, con1passionate, tolerant, and egalitarian society," he once said. "These vaJues are the same as those of Australian society. Sikhs fought alongside Australian diggers in the 1nany battles in WWl and WW2 to uphold the values of a den1ocratic, free, and just society. Our Gurus were martyred for defending these values."

Dr An1arjit Singh More was felicitated

NATIONAL EDITION

with the OAM honour on this year's Australia Day. "1 am deeply hun,bled, and also sad," his daughter Sasha More told Indian Link about the honour for her father.

Dr More passed last April.

"But he himself would have said, what's all the fuss about! He was a very gracious man, very deserving."

As founder and general practitioner at the Woolgoolga Medical Centre, Dr More was a much-loved member of the comn1unjty. As a Sikh elder, he was highly regarded within the local Sikh coIDJnunity, and took on a leadership role in the building of the new First Sikh Gurudwara.

"He loved working for the gurudwara," Sasha recounted. "Fro1n planning through to building and inauguration, he was involved at every step, going to the site everyday even when he was sick. He also travelled widely for fundraising. I can safely say, without hi1n there would be no gurudwara. 1t is his legacy."

The new temple was granted heritage status a year after being inaugurated.

Dr More arrived in Australia in 1964 as a 13-year-old. But his family's links to this country go way back before Federation. His great grandfather came here in 1800s, and the family divided their time between India

and Australia. His grandfather started a banana plantation that the family still owns.

Dr More became school captain of the local public school in Woolgoolga, and then went to the University of Queensland to study medicine.

He chose however to return to Woolgoolga to serve his adopted city.

Deeply involved in the community, he founded the Lions Club of Woolgoolga in 1976, and was member for many years. He was also a supporter of the Returned and Services League of Australia.

As a Sikh elder, he also played a part in making the Australian Sikh Games the huge annual event it is today.

His commitment to both his native and adopted identities was evident when he said at the inauguration of the New Sikh Gurudwara in 2019, "We are only the custodians of this unique and iconic place of worship, but it belongs to all Woolgoolga and Australia. Thls Gurdwara is foremost a place of worship for Sikhs, but it has brought together individuals, communities, and faiths for the improved understanding between us all."

It is a sentiment that hls family follows to the letter.

"My brother is currently the vice president of the temple committee, and my

also include lifestyle. Coffs, with its beachside setting, is paradise!"

'Paradise' is a term he also uses to describe his adopted country, especiaJJy given his experiences of Apartheid South Africa, where his family has lived since the early 1900s.

"Although I have good memories of my childhood, these are overwhelmingly predominated by the racist rule, police brutality, control of where we could or could not go. I'm pleased or see the back of it. Of course, the situation has changed, now that it is politically

different."

He faced no such jssues here in Australia.

"There were many doctors of colour when l arrived here," he recalled. "I've worked with many doctors of Indian origin for example - all brilliant, they function at a very high level."

How would he advise young doctors coming in today as New Australians?

"I'd say to them, do work to the best of your ability. It's all about effort, effort, effort. This is a fair country, and it will give you opportunities. There could be

cousin is secretary," Sasha revealed. "We beHeve that the Gurudwara is a community centre and invite the mainstream in at any opportunity."

In case you're wondering about that unusual surname for a Sikh, Sasha clarified, "Lt comes from the Hindustani term for peacock. Dad's uncle moved to England and changed his na1ne there."

Lt is a name that suits Dr Amarjit perfectly.

The peacock symbolism across various cultures stands for nobility, holiness, guidance, protection and watchfulness. lt is also symbolic of rejuvenation - a connection between the past, present and future.

Rajni Anand Luthra

barriers to entry to begin with, but isn't that true of any country - no one will accept you straight off with open arms.

Many people of colour are now heads of departments, doing really well. You can see that in the Indian diaspora - the barriers are high, and those that do get through are talented. By no means is this sheer luck; there's thousands of years of hlstory behind such achievement. Today's Uber driver is the parent of tomorrow's professional - it's part of their cultural strength."

Rajni Anand Luthra

FEBRUARY 2021 13

N EWSMAKERS •

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Molina Asthana i s appointed V ice Presid e nt of t h e Law I n stitute of Victoria BY JYOTI SHANKAR eing appointed as Vice President of the Law Institute of Victoria (LIV) is a hugely satisfying achieve1nent for Molina Asthana.

Not only does this make her the first Indian-born woman - indeed the first Indian-born person - to be elected to this position in the 162-year history of this institution, it also 1narks the culn1ination of a long journey of 1 6 years, when as a new n1igrant, she was told she would struggle to get a job in Australia with her Indian qualifications and experience.

Despite having worked as a lawyer in the Supreme Court of India, Molina's degree and experience were discounted here. She took a Master of Laws degree in Melbourne with good grades, but that wasn't enough to get her started. Even as recruiters dismissed her applications, Molina decided to 1nake her own move.

"Meeting the partners at the big law firms, I would tell them about my experiences, 1ny background and the value add that would bring," Molina told Indian Link, recounting the early days of struggle.

"When I got my first break, it was at the top-tier law finn Clayton Utz." Starting as a trainee solicitor, she climbed the ladder within n1onths. She soon beca1ne the Principal Solicitor at the Victorian Government Solicitor's Office, a position in which she served for eleven years until two years ago.

Explaining her decision to start her own practice, Molina said, "As I went up the ranks, 1 realised that in spite of all my effort or skills, I would probably never reach the top, like becoming partner."

She decided to service the migrant business population, who were clamouring for "son1eone who spoke their language and understood them culturally."

As a wo1nan of colour, she had hit what she describes as the 'double-glazed glass ceiling'. Her own experience of the law firn1 clique where work culture is exclusionary is telling. " People like me feel a bit lost in the big firms where male colleagues speak of private schools they went to or the footy and state clubs they belong to and don't make any effort to include you."

However, Molina adapted quickly. She now sits on sporting boards like Gymnastics Australia, the AFL South East Commission and Tribunal for the Football Federation of Australia. Sport was something Molina realised could be her strength in assin1ilating into Australian culture.

"When I came here, I was a1nazed to see everyone participating in some sport, whether running, cycling, walking or organised sport like soccer or footy. I was inspired," Molina revealed.

She now runs half-marathons.

It led her to launch a not-for-profit called Multicultural Women i n Sport, using sport as a means of empowerment 14 FEBRUARY 2021

Diversity in the legal profession, sexual harassment, and recovering from COVID fa llout will be high on Molina Asthana's agenda in her new role. and to increase wellbeing and a sense of belonging. Jt works with large sporting organisations to help them restructure com1nunity programs to make them migrant-women-friendly.

"We also advocate for more inclusive

spaces for women, such as allowing women to play in clothing they are comfortable with like the hijab or longer clothing, have women facilitators, umpires and coaches, curtains when swimming or separate timings for women who are not

comfortable swimming around men."

Molina hopes to use her year-long tenure as Vice President of LIV to make a real impact. Allegations of sexual harassment are rife in her profession.

"More support for victims, awareness campaigns, and helping smaller firms set up policies to stem such behaviour, will be an area of focus," she stated.

Diversity in the legal profession is another issue. Many law graduates come from diverse backgrounds but don't eventually make it to the top, thinning out at n1id-level. "There are barely any judges of Asian/migrant background. Visually the profession is very white," Molina observed.

Recovery from COVID-19 is another focus for LIV. Not only lawyers, but many migrant clients have also suffered. "Going online has benefits but when everything is tech-based, it is the most vulnerable that suffer, ending up being marginalised even further."

Her own practice, which also runs an office in fndia, specialises in comn1ercial law. Cross-border work is Molina's passion. She speaks at legal conferences in India and has been consulted on laws drafted there, relating to financial consumer protection and privacy. She is also trying to make it easier for overseas lawyers like herself who struggle to get their prior learning and experiences recognised when they migrate.

To hear Molina in her own words and literally walk in her shoes, head to Sydney Maritime Museu1n, where she is featured as part of 'A mile in n1y shoes' event. Inside a giant shoebox, visitors are provided with a stranger's pair of shoes and an audio recording and are encouraged to walk a mile to understand where that person came from and what has shaped their migration story. A free exhibition, it is on until 30 April 2021.

Molina's advice to women in her profession is to equip themselves with knowledge and imbibe good things from the culture of their adopted country while being true to their own heritage.

"1 encourage aU women, in particular migrant women, to put their hands up for leadership positions. You have to make yourself heard," says Molina who has walked this talk and continues to, tirelessly.

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My own COVID creation: Mince tomyum chicken and vegetables on lettuce with crispy noodles

Bridgerton (Netflix) for its diverse casting

www.indianlink.com.au

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Tanveer Sangha becomes the second I ndian-origin player to join the

Australian national cricket team

BY

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BY MANAN LUTHRA

started off playing cricket, just as any norn1al kid would." There's a lovely sense of hun1ility to Sydney lad Tanveer Sangha who has,in the space of one su1nn1er, lit up the Australian cricket world with his leg spin bowling. At just 1 9 years old, he's gone from unknown T20 debutant to touted Test star.

Tanveer's cricket connections reach as far as the national Men's team coach Justin Langer, and he's currently preparing to battle a fonnidable New Zealand line-up across the Tasman. He has every right to talk himself up, flex his statistics, and flaunt himself as a future Australian cricketer. Instead, he displays a striking level of maturity and perhaps 1nore importantly, enjoyment of the gan1e.

"I was nine and started playing in 1ny local Under-t0s tean1. We were only allowed to bat two overs, but you could get out as many ti1nes as you want ... It was all about fun back then. Out of those 12 balls l could only hit, like, 2 or 3!" he told Indian Link with a grin.

From those early under-10s matches, the story of Tanveer Sangha really began.

"As 1 started bowling leg spin at about 1 3 years old, that's when I started n1aking the local representative squads. When I was 15, I n1ade 1ny first NSW representative team, and from that tourna1nent, l 111ade my first Australia Under-16s team," he said.

What followed were his selections into the Australia Under-17s, Under-19s, and then the Under-19 World Cup, ironically in 2019.

All those years of representative cricket paid off in the n1ost recent T20 Big Bash League. Tanveer finished the season as the joint third-leading wicket-taker, played alongside experienced cricketers like Usman Khawaja, and earned his first call­ up to Australia's T20 squad.

He's an1ong a nun1ber of young, fresh faces in the national team, entering a vastly different cricket landscape from the 'old' era of Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar.

"My tean1-mates always tease me about it, but I am so bad with 'old' cricket history," Tanveer confessed. "They're shocked when I don't know this player or that player. Well, I hated history in school so I don't like anything history related!'

Ahead of his debut, it's clear that he's entering a different cricket atmosphere than the players before him. Cash-rich leagues around the world are ten1pting (he briefly raises a fondness for Indian Premier League team Kings XI Punjab), newer competitions are on the horizon, and the ga1ne is evolving constantly.

For Tanveer, though, the most exciting part is the chance to observe how experienced players go about their game.

"1'111 definitely looking forward to just being out there with all those senior guys [in New Zealand]," he shared. "Bowling to thern, asking questions, training with them and seeing the intensity and the quality they train at. [Seeing] the little one­ per.·centers that really help then1 get that edge to the next level, get that advantage over other guys."

Noting the nice balance between the experience of the older players and the confidence and freedom of the younger players, he has some advice for up-and­ con1ing cricketers.

"Having a good balance is very important. It shouldn't always be cricket, cricket, cricket. There's always hard work - facing a lot of balls, spending ti1ne in the nets... but it's knowing what 'quality' training is," Tanveer said."Having that quality instead of quantity really helped me towards the back end of my training over the last few years."

Like 1nost cricket fans, he was glued to cricket updates this past summer. In fact, he looks to the AUSvIND series of 2020-21 as a guide for his future actions.

"I definitely saw many ups and downs (in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy], so many

... amazing performances from both sides - especially from India. With so many injuries and down times for India, what with quarantining, they still fought so hard on the field. They have so much passion and love for the game, and I reckon that really helped them come out in the series and keep fighting," he said.

Understandably, he identifies with the younger players of the Indian squad (think NATIONAL EDITION

Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, and T Natarajan), who made the most of the opportunity to fight - and stand out.

"I reckon that's what might be similar for me. If I get 1ny opportunity, I'm gonna take it, stand out there, and show what I can do as well."

And finally, his predictions for the upcoming Australia - New Zealand series?

"3- 2 , Australia," Tanveer smiled.

FEBRUARY 2021 15

ST U D E N T

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• Lecturer Dr Ian Woolford's three-month campaign to save H i n di proves successfu l BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA t was a consolidated campaign staged over three long 111onths, but La Trobe's Dr Ian Woolford received news this weak that n1ade it all worth it.

The university's Hindi progran1, slated to be terminated due to COVID-caused financial hardships, will be maintained with no cuts.

"It's quite a relief" ' Dr Woolford, La Trobe's face of Hindi, told Indian Link.

"I can hardly believe that the uni has come to this decision."

Announcing the decision, the university's Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences Prof Nick Sisley said, "After considerable discussions with stakeholders including staff, students, con11nunity groups and governments, we have decided to retain the current tlindi program. Notwithstanding the significant financial challenges we face, it is clear to us that it re1nains firmly in the university's and country's interest to retain the Hindi program."

Buoyed at the decision, Dr Woolford said, "I an1 particularly heartened that the reason stated is that Hindi is vital to Australia's national interest and therefore has a place at the university. As a Hindi specialist, I agree."

Dr Woolford spearheaded a massive campaign involving various interest groups besides his own colleagues and students, dedicating all his energies into saving Hindi at the university. " I reached out to staff and students from multiple departn1ents and others who 16 FEBRUARY 2021

wanted to see it survive, Hindi - a National Strategic the Indian community in priority Language."

The Indian Student Australia who wrote to Association of La Trobe and the university and to their the university's Bollywood Me1nbers of Parliament asking for support, even Club also played their part. academics in India. Support President of the ca1ne from the Australian Bollywood Club Priyanshu Tomar, an international High Commission in New Delhi too." student studying for Hindi student Jessica a Masters' degree in Elle1n, who coordinated Computer Science, helped the student response to the organise two online petitions. university, is over the moon They read: "La Trobe at the announce1nent.

"I '111 so glad to be starting University uses their :Jessica El/em my third year being able to connection to the Indian continue Hindi," she told Film Festival of Melbourne Indian Link. "The uni has and Bollywood stars to promote the University made a wise decision. The in India, particula1·ly to current financial situation is not ideal but it's itnportant potential future students. for us to have Hindi - not It is hypocritical (to do only for our 700,000 strong this) and at the same time Indian community but also cut Hindi, the language of Bollywood itself. What for Australia's own future kind of message will this in trade and geopolitical stability." extraordinary step send Jessica organised to India and the Indian fellow students to write diaspora?" group submissions to "It is great news that Hindi will continue," Priyanshu the university and also targeted news outlets and told Indian Link. "I have government agencies. first generation migrant friends who are " I worked very hard on the phone, studying Hindi and they were devastated when the move was announced." and on social media, to keep pressure Dr Woolford meanwhile, is showing no on the University and the federal signs of slowing down, instead appearing government. I also went to the Victorian Sate Government, DFAT, the Ministers of further galvanized in the service of the Education, Home Affairs, Multiculturalism, language which has come to define his life.

"Now that we have support, it is vital and other related ministers and Shadow ministers to stop the university ceasing to continue to build momentum, and not

just at La Trobe but across Australia," he reflected. "The university sector is devastated by the current crisis and we must consider new initiatives going forward. For instance, I'm looking at ways to work with faculties across the spectrum - Public Health, International Relations, Sociology- to see if there is any way we can design Hindi units to help their students. In Public Health for instance there could be great advantages. How can we make Hindi, a vital community language in Victoria, more attractive to their students? l think it's a natural thing we should be doing."

He seems to have passed this enthusiasm on to his students.

Jessica Ellen1 stated, "I will work alongside Ian to get more students. But the university also has a responsibility. It was perhaps a failure of marketing that people didn't know about tlu1di at La Trobe."

She added, "Ian is a great teacher, and a great asset to the university. It would have been a shame to lose him and the program."

One of Ian's jobs on his to-do list for now includes writing messages of thanks to various people who supported his campaign.

"There are hundreds of people to thank, people who took it upon the1nselves to do their bit. l just know the first 150."

We can't let Ian go without asking hitn this: with Hindi safe at La Trobe, is there a line or two from poetry that describes his current state of mind?

"The last lines fron1 Vinod Kumar Shukla's poem Hathasha se Vyakti Baith Gaya Tha. They go as follows: flum dono

saath chafe, Ek doosre ko nahin jaante the, Saath chalne ko jaante the."

Bravo, Ian babu.

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FEBRUARY 2021 17

E X PATS

BY

RHEA L NATH hen Karl Rock picks up the phone (with a cheerful 'N a1naste!' no less), his New Zealand accent is apparent.

That is, until he bursts into 1-lindi with an earnest, quiet confidence.

On social media, the popular lndophile is known for his honest, sometimes humorous, videos where he busts n1yths and scams of India. He's even got his own hashtag for the cause: #nahichahiyeji (No thank you).

"There were so 1nany proble1ns when l first ca1ne to India. Every tourist has at least one bad experience from their trip. l wanted to give travellers a way to discover the country and avoid the scains," Karl told Indian Link.

From highlighting fake call centres to warning against fake teas and trinkets, his videos aiin to prepare the average tourist

for India. It's no surprise, then, that he's got over 1.2 million YouTube subscribers.

Now a resident of New Delhi, Karl earned a stamp of approval last year by none other than Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal when he donated his plasma after recovering fron1 COVID. "All I have wanted is to fit in. It was such a nice thing to be called a Delhiite. It was one of the best days in a pretty difficult year," he said with a smile.

The Kiwi's adventures in India might even put local travellers to shame. Since his first trip back in 2013, he has visited every state and Union Territory, along with neighbouring countries Pakistan and Bangladesh.

His reason is simple: "I've been fascinated with India since I was 1 8 years old. I just wanted to see everything the country had to offer."

Indeed, a glance at bis YouTube channel reveals escapades off the beaten track, like visiting the Bear Temple in Chhattisgarb and Cellular Jail in the Andaman and

,q,

Himalayan trail

18 FEBRUARY 2021

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U P CLOSE AN D PERSONAL With Karl Rock

Nicobar Islands.

Even in his own city, Karl routinely shares snippets of his life. In 2019, he shared his experience of attending a Diljit Dosanjh concert and soon after that, the Punjabi singer reached out on lnstagra1n, welco1ning him "to the Bhangra world."

The expat has authored two e-books so far for tourists and Indophiles, including a book on how to learn Hindi quickly. What made hjn1 want to learn the language? "l started learning Hindi to assin1ilate," Karl explained to Indian Link. "Often, menus and road instructions and other travel basics aren't in English. Learning Hindi helps you connect with everyone."

In fact, some of his most popular videos on social media remain his interactions with locals while speaking in 1-lindi, complete with their faces lighting up in surprise.

Jn one instance, he greets a military officer with a jovial "Rani rani ji, ki haal chaal?" (How's it going?) before entering the airport.

Another titne, an amused shopkeeper

NATIONAL EDITION

asks him: "Toh kahan. se seekh rahe ho?

(Where are you learning from?)"

"Mere dost se (From my friend)" Karl responds happily.

Does this 111ean he's got a grasp of the infamous Indian bead wobble?

"Initially, l had trouble understanding it," he laughed. "But now people comment on my videos that l do it too!"

Another benefit of learning Hindi has meant enjoying Bollywood n1ovies like a local. In 2018, he even visited the Druk White Lotus School (which was featured in Bollywood film 3 idiots) before it was closed to tourists.

"I started discovering Bollywood with Shah Rukb Khan movies, but now I'm a massive Aamir Khan fan. His movies have a lot of depth. lt can be difficult for foreigners to truly understand movies like PK or 3 idiots without context, but I'm now getting the hang of it," Karl shared.

Two years ago, his ties to India were officialJy cemented when be married bis girlfriend, Manisha Malik, by court

marriage through the Special Marriages Act. Staying true to his cause, he also made the most of the opportunity to bust myths around marriage in lndia, including a misconception about converting to Hinduism to marry a Hindu.

"There's so much strength in the Indian family unit. Sometimes, there can be comments passed about my wife being married to a foreigner, but my parents-in­ law really fight for me," Karl said.

"I didn't know this before, but when you marry into an Indian family, you become their other son or daughter. l can now say that l have two sets of parents!"

Moving fron1 Auckland to New Delhi, as one can imagine, was a "steep learning curve" for the vlogger. He recalls the initial difficulty of learning to 'adjust' by sharing seats on a bus or asserting bis spot in line if people try to cut past him.

Over the years, though, he seems to have settled in. "There's not all too much I miss about New Zealand... A good n1ince and cheese pie maybe," he confessed.

Favourite local dish?

Chole bhature. I love it!

Cook anything Indian?

I'm not much of a cook... I can make Maggi, though. I like to add extra black peppers, turmeric, chili to spice it up.

Favourite Indian drink?

I am the chaiwallah of the house! I love to make proper masala chai, I probably drink multiple cups a day.

The funny thing is, I didn't even like tea before I came to India.

Favourite Bollywood movie?

Oangal, starring Aamir Khan. It's set in Haryana, where my wife is from.

Advice to Aussies or Kiwis looking to live In India?

Live here if you have a deep appreciation of the country. You have to WANT to be here. Otherwise, it can be a lot of work to adapt.

FEBRUARY 2021 19

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H E A LT H

Pink ari Inc

launches two new health projects

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With ·seyond Pink' and 'Cervical Screening for Survival', Pink Sari's work in community health reaches new heights BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

cancer diagnosis typically turns one's world upside down, and not necessarily for the patient alone.

"Carers are often forgotten in the cancer journey," Shantha Vishwanathan, President of Pink Sari Inc told Indian Link.

"But they are doing truly important work."

Pink Sari has just launched a year-long project entitled Beyond Pink, aimed directly at this seg1nent of the cancer experience.

Treatment outco1nes are known to be better with effective caregivers, and yet the fatigue, stress, even anger and perhaps illness resulting fron1 forgetting oneself while caring for a loved one, is scarcely the subject of concern.

"It is the toughest place to be, watching someone you love go through cancer," Prof. David Currow, Chief Cancer Officer and CEO of the Cancer Institute NSW, said at the launch. "Jt is an enorn1ous sacrifice, and often the i1npact stays, even after care is complete."

Pink Sari Inc's Beyond Pink project, a partnership with NSW Multicultural H.ealth Con1munication Service funded by the Cancer Institute NSW, is aimed at helping caregivers 1nake sense of it aU, empowering then1 with information as well as skiJls. "We'd been observing the fa111ilies that we worked with and had i.dentified a need," Shantha Yishwanathan told Indian Link.

"This led to a survey - targeted as well as open to the com1nunity - that established a gap in services. There's nothing at

22

FEBRUARY 2021

the n1on1ent in the realin of culturally appropriate care for carers."

She acknowledged that our community is good with offers of help to known and sometin1es unknown people, but added that fonnal and complete care is the need of the hour.

"First up, we hope to conduct workshops to connect carers - both primary as well secondary carers - with existing services, offered by Carers NSW and the Cancer Council. Also on the agenda are workshops on healthy lifestyle. When I worked in the US I found on-site facilities for carers such as yoga and 1nusic therapy which were very beneficial."

She added, "Ultimately, we hope to develop strategies to advocate on behalf of carers."

On the occasion, com1nunity member Selvi Ranjan provided a first-person account of caring for her mum who visited from India and fell seriously ill with stomach cancer. "With my own young fan1ily at the tin1e, I would have liked so1ne culture­ specific care: help with transport, groceries, anything would have been appreciated."

Also launched simultaneously was a second Pink Sari project, entitled 'Cervical Screening for Survival'. To be in1plemented with partners Australian Indian Medical Graduates Association (AIMGA) and the Australian Medical Aid Foundation (AMAF), the project will raise awareness about the National Cervical Screening Progra1n and the importance of early detection of cervical cancer amongst

Sending the message out with cricketer Glenn McGrath at Sydney's Pink Test, 2019

Indian and Sri Lankan women.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Palu Malaowalla and Dr Chitra Harinesan of AIMGA and AMAF respectively provided early ideas of increasing screening rates in Western Sydney and Southwest Sydney.

These include targeted resources for GPs such as data-driven health management programs such as PenCAT; setting aside a day such as on a weekend and have the women come by for testing; sending out reminders; dispelling myths such as 'I might not be at risk because 1 am no longer sexually active/asymptomatic/have no family history'; awareness campaigns using multilingual flyers and posters, and, perhaps significantly, involving men in the health of women.

"Cervical is the most preventable cancer," Prof. Currow offered. "Screening is the best way to proceed, and Australia has seen great success here."

Pink Sari Inc began as a community project funded by the Cancer Institute in

2014 to increase breast screening rates in Indian and Sri Lankan women. When the two-year project came to an end, it became a community association on its own. Starting off with six women volunteers, it not only captured the imagination of the co111111unity with its innovative and award-winning campaigns involving the arts, it also met with appreciable success in increasing screening rates for breast cancer, giving its target women a better shot at beating the odds and a better range of treatment options.

"It's been exciting to see you grow and develop this way since you first launched," Prof. Currow told Pink Sari. "You should be proud - you're a wonderful example of what the community can do when they take ownership. (You've shown) incredible trackwork in galvanizing the com1nunity.

We are counting on you as a partner because of your great com111unity reach, and know that you are trusted and have the necessary skills and expertise."

www.indianlink.com.au

WO M E N

A com munity Facebook grou p is doing what extended fa mily has not been able to .. ao

BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA Facebook group launched last year is fast becon1ing the go-to place for expectant and new rnurns in Sydney's Indian cornrnunity who have transitioned into motherhood with no support from extended family.

When it became apparent in late February 2020 that COVID was going to disrupt our lives in an unprecedented manner, Hetal Bhimani Vasavada began to notice a particular trend on corurnunity social n1edia platforms. Pregnant women were posting with concern asking whether their parents' impending visits - to help with their newborn babies - would have to be cancelled.

"It was clear to rne that these women would be having their babies with no outside help," Hetal told Indian Link.

The 33-year-old auton1ation engineer knew exactly what this meant. When she first arrived in Australia in 2017, she was 32 weeks pregnant with her first child.

"My husband and 1 were setting up ho1ne in a new country - where we did not know a soul, and did not know the systen1s - at a time when most expectant parents are wrapping up work responsibilities and preparing for the birth," she recounted.

"Luckily though, we did have my parents visit for the first three months after our son was born. For 2020's new parents, J knew I had to help."

Jt all began with simple post one night on a con11nunity Facebook page.

"I live in Westn1ead," Hetal wrote. "If you're going to be at Westmead Hospital having your baby, I'd be happy to help."

There were 30 replies the next 1norning.

While some were notes of appreciation for her offer of help, many were from young won1en seeking help.

"I'm fond of cooking, and since my husband and I were both working from home, I found we had to time to go deliver some food boxes," Hetal recounted.

Soon other women were posting, saying they could help too.

"The den1and was growing for sheera, the kheer that is traditionally fed to new mums in our culture," Hetal said.

Posts began to appear fro1n other suburbs, seeking/offering help.

The natural next step was to set up a Facebook page dedicated to this new endeavour, and so the private group Helping hands to ivomen during pregnancy/ Deliveries was born.

As a young mum herself who has little time to read long posts, Hetal told members to keep it short. "Tell us which NATIONAL EDITION

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suburb you are from, and whether you are seeking help or offering it."

Today, expectant mums nearing term seek infonnation about what to take to hospital, where to buy baby needs. New mums ask for information on post-natal massages, dietary concerns, breastfeeding issues, and catch-ups for older kids and the1nselves.

Sleep consultants and n1aternity support professionals post their availability.

Women with spare titne on their hands offer help with cooking, grocery runs and occasional child-1ninding.

It's a warm, supportive environment, filled with care and genuine concern and much kindness.

"Many women have said to me, this feels like fan1ily when our own family cannot be here," Hetal smiled.

Post-partum traditions with strong family involvement continue to be robust in our culture, even for those of us who move out of the country. Physical nourishn1ent is paramount, with special energy-giving, in11nunity-boosting and reparative foods, as well as therapeutic massages. Emotional nourishment is

equally important, with freedom from household chores, and much rest, rejuvenation and replenishment. It is a time when new mums need mothering themselves, it is believed, and so convalescence is encouraged in our parental homes, with our own mothers, sisters, aunts all chipping in.

And when we can't have our real 'village' supporting us with our newborns in a new culture, that too in times of COVID-related restrictions, the virtual 'village' is filling in quite njcely.

While the women are no doubt accessing the free government services in their areas such as child health centres, how many have Hetal and fellow administrator Chhavi Mishra helped?

"I couldn't tell you," Hetal replied with honesty. "It's on auto mode now. The girls exchange phone numbers and take it fro1n there, and we have no way of following it all up to see if help was delivered effectively. All we've done is provide a platform - it's really the women out there who are helping each other."

When women support women, amazing things can happen.

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FEBRUARY 2021 23

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What would you do if you saw this note on your building's noticeboard?

Since then, Aishwarya became a little more conscious of her cooking at home, where she had American, Latino, and Korean flatmates. To be more mindful of those around her, she started to put a cloche over the pan while cooking and began to ventilate the house as much as possible.

For many first-generation kids, there's also the daunting 'lunchbox mo1nent' when they feel targeted for the smells coming from their packed lunches. To avoid ridicule, they eventually switch to 'safer' lunches at school like ham sandwiches.

Of course, the argument goes beyond homes. A common question on Airbnb's host discussions rooms has been: 'Can you ask guests to not cook curry or smelly foods?' Some queries are more strongly worded than others, but the con1mon sentiment is that curry has a strong, lingering smell which all Airbnb guests might not enjoy.

Cultural perspectives on food

BY RHEA L NATH hen 29-year-old Vaibhav Pokhriyal moved into his new apartinent in the Sydney suburb of Dee Why, he never would have guessed what a stir (no pun intended) his cooking would create.

Merely two weeks in, a sign went up on the building's community noticeboard, in bold letters: 'Stop cooking curry! This building smells like an Indian restaurant.'

Was it the garlic paste in bis dal? The hing in his aloo sabzi? Whatever the case, it rubbed his new neighbours the wrong way and they were determined to let him know.

To receive such a passive-aggressive note about their cooking might deter some people. Vaibhav, though, was determined to continue his habits as is.

"I'm still cooking Indian food," he told Indian Link. "I'm not going to stop because of this con1plaint. I'm certainly not going to make pasta every day."

In fact, he took it a step further. He decided to address the passive-aggressive note with a little one of his own: 'If you are tired of your food, you're welcome to try some of 1nine.'

Both notes stayed up on the noticeboard for at least a 1nonth before they were taken down.

Unfortunately, this isn't a lone incident of Indian cooking receiving backlash 24 FEBRUARY 2021

from neighbours or landlords. Indian cotnmunity groups on Facebook have seen numerous posts about neighbours who complain about the strong smell emanating from their kitchens. "l an1 in so 1nuch stress that 1 have stopped cooking Indian food," one user lamented.

Another user shared that they moved out of their new apartment after a few weeks because of unpleasant incidents with their neighbours.

"My cousin was looking at properties around Western Sydney. When he found one that he liked, he was told by the agent that the landlord doesn't lease to Indian or Chinese families because of the smell of the cooking," Vaibhav added.

In situations like this, it's hard to shake off the paranoia upon realising your food makes you stand out negatively from the rest of the crowd.

24-year-old Aishwarya Reddy, an H R consultant recalls a cross-cultural management class fron1 her time at the University of Sydney where the students were encouraged to have an open, honest conversation about stereotypes.

"We were a pretty mixed class with Indian, Chinese, and Aussie students.

When we were asked about Asian stereotypes, we talked about seafood, soy, strong vinegar smells," she explained to

Indian Link.

"When it came to Indian food, I was surprised and initially offended. Then I realised this is how the other communities must've felt during the discussion."

It all boils down to understanding and recognising differences.

As individuals, we tend to be cautious of smells, sights, and sounds that we aren't accustomed to. However, when migrant communities have faced these kinds of issues all ove1· the world, the idea of "smelly food" isn't limited to any one cultural group.

Plenty of "white" foods like blue cheese and anchovies are associated with strong smells.

Early European families arriving in AustraJia felt the brunt of similar ostracism with their salamis, cheeses and sauerkraut.

South-east Asian foods like kimchi, and fruit such as durian, are strong in their smells but are delicious to eat.

What WE can do about our cooking smells

• A new-age trick to get rid of strong smells is lighting a candle to soak up the air in a room. Try it out next time you're cooking - and no, it doesn't have to be a scented candle.

• Cooking food, especially Indian food, can be a long process. Try to clean as you go, including wiping down the stove top and the adjoining wall when you're done, to limit the lasting scent.

• If you're expecting guests, it might help to finish your cooking of curries and other strong-smelling food the day before.

What YOU can do about our cooking smells

• Simply tell us if you find our food overpowering. We don't find it so,

And yet with increased interaction and exposure came acceptance, even true relish. Even a ubiquitous supermarket iten1 such as yogurt was hard to find comn1ercially until not so long ago - today the average Aussie consumes around 7.5 kilograms of yogurt annually.

The international food aisles in supennarkets, while convenient, are another way that we see a form of food politics play out. Some items, like olive oil with Mediterranean origins, sit comfortably on shelves while lentils, tortillas, and curry paste find themselves in different aisles. With time, as these ingredients become more common and normalised in households, maybe we won't need to see such a demarcated space.

So what's the problem?

Unfortunately, unpleasant incidents crop up when others feel the need to impose their ideas. Who likes to be told what they can cook in the con1fort of their own home?

Perhaps all this boils down to the way we accept, and give out, criticism. Think back to neighbours of other cultural backgrounds whose cooking might have affected you negatively in any way. Or even consider other Indian families whose cooking n1ight smell different than our own.

Without doling out shame or disapprovaJ, maybe it's time we accept that food has a smell. Sometimes we like it, sometiines we don't.

(But if you're facing particularly nasty incidents with your neighbours or landlords, do something about it.

Reach out to strata or your local council.

Disagreements are okay, racist remarks are not.) so we won't be aware until you tell us. Most of us would take an extra step, like using a cloche, to make it a more comfortable experience. (Try not to sound like Vaibhav Pokhriyal's neighbour though).

• Know that some of your own foods smell too - there are some pretty strong-smelling cheese; and an egg sandwich for lunch can stink up the office, or even microwaved cheddar popcorn. So it's not just curry, or 'ethnic' or 'Asian' foods. Strong taste = strong smell.

• Give our food a try. If you like the taste, you might find you'll be able to tolerate the smell. Most of us could not stand the look and smell of Vegemite when we first came here, but we gave it a go as the anthem of Australia says we should. Try and broaden your palettes when you go out to eat.

PS: Numerous readers reached out to say that they had actually gotten compliments about their cooking from friends, neighbours and acquaintances. Some even asked for recipes to try at home. Always a great sign!

www.indianlink.com.au

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NATIONAL EDITION

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FEBRUARY 2021 25

F I R ST P E R S O N

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VIJAY HANDOO's fi rst-person account of the circumsta nces that led to the Kashmiri exodus i n 1990. t's 26 January, memsaab," the milk1nan l had known for years said to 1ne. "Maybe you should put up a black flag on your

balcony."

"I d-don't have a black flag," I sta1nmered in reply.

"Use a black sari, or a dupatta."

It was the final straw.

That night 31 years ago, under cover of darkness, I fled my home in Kash1nir with my husband and two young sons, after months of sheer terror.

This is my recount of experiences I had then. As I relay these to you, I make no allegations or accusations. This is but a straightforward account of the days leading up to the night we were driven out of our state. *** It was the night of 19 Jan 1990.

My brother and his fan1ily were visiting 26 FEBRUARY 2021

us. They were over to see our new house which we had built lovingly, putting all our . . savings 111.

The doorbell rang at 1 1.30 pm.

1t was our Pandit neighbou1·s, all in a panic. Don't you know what's happening?

Locked in from the cold winter, we hadn't heard the com1notion. The entire neighbourhood was out on the streets, as loudspeakers fron1 the mosque blared out messages telling Kashmiri Pandits like us, to leave, convert to Islam, or die.

The terror had begun months ago, when we received letters telling us to leave Kashmir, referred to as the Land of Allah, the land for Muslin1s, in which kaafirs (non-believers) had no place. The letters ended with threats to our children's lives.

We were a small minority group of Kashmiri Pandits, in the Muslim majority state of Jammu and Kashmir. The daily

persecutions and harassment of our community of the past few months had left us in fear of our lives.

There were daily reports of killings, blackouts, curfew, stone-throwing, break­ ins, and closure of schools, colleges, and cinema halls.

Only recently, a young girl had been raped and killed brutally. She worked as a nurse, and apparently had informed police about a patient or patients, clearly militants. They left her body, cut up into pieces, at a prominent city crossing.

Not so long ago, a close friend Lassa Kaul, who happened to be my husband's boss and Director of Srinagar's Doordarshan Kendra, was shot on point blank range outside his home in Bemina colony, under the watchful eyes of his 'trusted' driver.

Also, our close relation Pushker Nath Handoo, a top state Govern1nent officer in

the information department, lost his life when his own driver brought an assailant to his home in Karan Nagar, Srinagar.

There are many more such stories of friends and family me1nbers who are no longer with us.

And tonight, the mosque was sending out its chilling message on its loudspeakers: Kashmiri Pandits exit, but leave your women behind. Bataw varaie, Batneiw saan.

"You're the only home here with a phone connection," the Pandit neighbours beseeched us. So we rang the police, the army. No one picked up.

We rang friends in other localities, fa1nily in neighbouring cities: Send help. Our hearts can1e up to our mouths when we heard they were in the same boat as us, with mosques in their areas blaring out the same 1nessages.

Arise Muslim brothers, fight the Hindus.

Nizaam-e-mustafa.

Pakistan zindabad.

www.indianlink.com.au

home, just as the milkman can1e by. He gave us our daily n1ilk - and that missive about the black flag. *** We batched a plan to leave home that day.

Taxi to T ammu? We didn't want to risk it.

We would have to fly.

There is a flight early tomorrow, the aii-port told us, but it is fully booked.

We replied in desperation, we're coming regardless.

We arranged to borrow some cash fron1 our close friend, Deepak Budki. As night fell, under the cover of darkness, my husband drove to Deepak's house to pick it up.

Meanwhile at home, I had packed a bag.

It was a briefcase, really - all it contained was our documents. The kids and [ put on as many clothes as we could; to protect us from the cold I told then1, but I knew this is all we would have for the next few weeks.

As a taxi drove us to the airport, I did not once turn around to look at the dream home we were leaving behind.

Our eyes kept darting around to spot people who might stop us. It was when we saw the army picket at the entrance to the airport, that we breathed again.

"I know the flight is full," n1y husband told the check-in counter. "But there could be some cancellations as curfew has set in now?"

Wait and see, we were told. l prayed all night as we huddled in the cold - but relative safety - of the airport hall.

Early next morning, we were airborne.

At Jammu, we got some time to process the last few days. I had left food on the stove. Clothes drying on the stand. Toys lying around the house...

Soon we began to hear from friends.

So1ne, like Deepak, had fled like us. Others, tragically, will live on in the Valley eternally. *** At l .00a1n, the calls endured in the background as mayhen1 continued on the street.

My brother said, "I'm going to hide up on the terrace and keep a lookout. I'll yell when I see the1n coming, you all run out the back."

I figured I could ask our Muslim neighbours for help - they had been strangely silent.

From oui- backyard, I hoisted my 8-year­ old son into my Pandit neighbour's house to wake them up. Meanwhile, as a mob descended on our doorstep, imagine my terror when I realised, my son is stuck in the neighbour's backyard, all alone, in the dark... lt was only later we would get to know, the mob was there to threaten and terrify us.

But we knew then that we had to run, if we wanted to save our lives. But where would we go? And how? We had no money at home, and very little in the bank, having put all of our savings towards the dream home we would have to leave.

It was dead of winter, and the city was closed to curfew.

On the morning of the 20th, things were quiet. The night, too, passed sleeplessly, in sheer terror.

"Make sure when we leave, that you take Baby Brother with us," my son whispered to me. "You might forget him if he is sleeping." *** On 21 Jan, another neighbour stopped n1e in the street.

"Sister, can 1 send the women of my family to yours tonight? The arn1y-wallahs won't search your hon1e because you're Hindu. They create havoc in Muslim homes like ours."

NATIONAL EDITION

I stared at him dumbfounded as he continued, "Leave your house unlocked tonight. I might have to bring my family over in a hurry." *** On 25 Jan, the doorbell rang. I froze. l told my husband to go to the back of the house. We had been advised that the callers might show more restraint to women.

Two young men stood at the door, tall and well-built. Their hands were hidden in the pockets of their flowing phirans. "ls your husband home?" they asked.

"No," I lied. "He's probably still at work."

"He's not," they replied. "We checked.

He works at Doordarshan, in the news department. We wanted to ask why be spreads lies about us."

"He doesn't make the news," I replied, trying to calm 111y racing heart. "He just puts out what comes from above."

Silence. Then: "May we use your phone?"

I unplugged the instrument from inside the house and brought it out, hooking it into an outside port. As l stood around, their phone conversation sent the chills right down my spine.

"Hope the army is not creating hassles in your area," they said into the phone. "It's all clear over here. Maybe send the asla (ammunition) here. This is a large house.

There's plenty of space here to store it all."

1 can't spend the night in this house, I said to my husband.

We rang a friend in the army cantonment area, considered fully safe, and said we were coming over to stay with them for the night.

The next morning, 26 Jan, we returned

Weeks later, we found ourselves in Jalandhar, my husband's en1ployer Doordarshan having found him a suitable position. We were warned not to tell anyone we were from Kashmir, as landlords were not renting to Kashmiris - you see, they may have fled their homes, and in all likelihood would have no money for rent.

"Just the one bag?" our new landlord asked us.

"Our stuff is con1ing by truck," we lied.

My own employer, DAV, also found me a position as a teacher. l was an MA-MEd, but l happily took on nursery teacher training. My son, who went to an elite private school in Kashmir, went to Central School now.

Like all Kashmiri Pandits, we fell back on our education to build us up again.

We've always been proud of the 100% literacy in our community: it came in very handy in this time of crisis.

My husband and I climbed the corporate ladder with better and better jobs. Our sons took engineering and MBA degrees, and found jobs in Australia. Upon retiring, we moved to Australia permanently in 2009 to be with them.

On 19 Jan this year, the anniversary of that dreadful start to the Kashmiri exodus, we spent the day with online communities now stretched across the world, who faced that terror. We remembered. We prayed.

We thanked, even.

But most of all, we voiced our hope. Our wounds remain raw, but justice eludes us even after 32 years. Driven out of our ancestral lands, we continue to seek a probe into the genocide of 1989-90.

The Handoo family in Australia FEBRUARY 2021 27

C U LT U R E D I A R I E S

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A list of Indian Link's cu rrent favourites

EAT A9ai bowls increasingly becoming one of the most popular superfoods...why is that?

They taste incredible, they look appealing, and they are amazingly healthy! Some proponents claim they help with weight loss, high cholesterol, and arthritis. Acai bowls are essentially thick smoothie bowls loaded with toppings. They are made of pulped and flash-frozen acai berries that are pureed with other frozen fruit, then served in a bowl and topped with a variety of berries, granola, seeds, nuts, peanut butter etc.

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READ Ritu weds Chandni by Ameya Narvankar is a wonderful children's picture book about a LGBTQ wedding. The story follows a young girl Ayesha, who is eagerly anticipating the wedding of her favourite cousin Ritu Didi. The vibrant cover is eye-catching and the contents, simply wholesome. When Ritu and Chaandni are confronted with bigots, young Ayesha takes a stand and doesn't let the negativity ruin their special day! It's the perfect book to educate your children about different types of relationships.

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WATCH Of all the Indian shows and movies releasing on line this month, we think you shouldn't miss: The Girl on the Train (Netflix), a Hindi film adaptation of Paula Hawkins' debut novel from 2015, starring Parineeti Chopra. The Broken Hearts Gallery (Amazon Prime), a rom-com starring Australian actor Geraldine Viswanathan. Also catch season 2 of The Family Man (Amazon Prime) and 1962: A War in the Hills (Disney+Hotstar) with Abhay Deol in the lead role.

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LISTEN The incomparable Shreya Ghoshal has released a new single titled 'Angana Morey'.

The singer collaborated with her brother Soumyadeep in her home studio to produce the latest contemporary pop release which is a dramatic interpretation of a woman longing for her beloved. The song's electronic beats coupled with sounds of the tabla and flute put you in a musical trance. Ghoshal's distinctively sweet vocals only amplify this experience. The music video on YouTube garnered 5,000,000 views in two days.

Bageshri Savyasachi 28 FEBRUARY 2021

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A D V E RT I S E M E N T

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n south Asian culture, there's a strong sense of duty towards family. Whether it's old age, sickness, or disability, fan1ilies rally together to do their part for their loved ones.

When they need an extra hand, though, OSAN AbiJity Assist is happy to step in.

"Our culture can son1etimes hinder the ability to ask for help. At OSAN, we're simply suggesting son,e additional aid," says Dr Omer Khan with a smile.

As CEO, he has seen the con1pany grow from its humble beginnings into an industry leader in disability support and aged care services. Through their certified caregivers, excellent acco1nmodation facilities, and services that span 26 different categories, OSAN provides it all.

"We're not too large that our clients beco1ne just a number, but we're not too sn1all that we can't cater to your needs. We live our mission state1nent: 'quality care with compassion'," On1er shares.

True to their word, OSAN's phone services do not get directed to an answering machine. Instead, you're always greeted by a pleasant voice on the other end of the line in a variety of languages like Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, Turkish, and Afghani l n fact, Omer beams, OSAN goes the extra mile. From trainees to senior manage1nent, all staff try to visit every client, gaining valuable feedback and creating connections along the way.

Many times, these little interactions make all the difference.

As a registered provider with Australia's National Disability Insurance Sche111e (NDIS), OSAN's support services are tailored to each client. And for new migrants and Australians who don't know about NDIS facilities, Omer and his team want to help you get the facilities you're entitled to.

NATIONAL EDITION

A B I

How do you know that you're eligible? It starts with three sin,ple questions: ■ Are you less than 65 years old when you first enter the NDlS? ■ Are you an Australian citizen or hold a permanent/ Protected Special Category visa?

■ Do you have a disability that affects day-to­ day activities?

With $22 billion allotted to disability services in Australia in 2020, OSAN is determined to connect you with the right funding for your needs.

Members of the team Like Karuna Prasad, Director of Operations at OSAN Ability, believe that leaders like Omer truly have the ability to change people's lives. In fact, when funding fell through for a client who had been waiting for a disabled scooter for n1onths, she saw Omer buy the scooter himself.

"This kind of work makes you learn a lot about yourself," Karuna shares. "And OSAN is the kind of company that is driven by community service. A part of our income is devoted towards welfare work, to give back."

She still remembers the case of an elderly mother whose son was placed in a government facility that was unsuited to his requirements. Every day he would call

her, stressed out of his wits. Eventually the 85-year-old took him in - and continued to care for him in her old age.

With OSAN's accredited short- and medium-term accommodation services and specialised disability accon,modation, families don't need to make that difficult choice ever again.

"We welcome families to be involved, but we en1power our clients, so they don't feel like a burden. We help them achieve their goals, no matter their age, creed, or disability, by giving them their own space and independence," Karuna explains proudly.

During the pandemic, the importance of healthcare workers has been at the forefront. OSAN, too, continues to hire care workers as they expand.

"The Australian philosophy is to always invest in health. As an organisation, we're recruiting almost every week. We require minimum Certificate 3 & 4 qualifications in disability and aged care. This is a great career choice for those who are interested," Omer says.

When over 4 million Australians continue to live with a disability, en1powering the1n to live normal lives (with a little assistance) can go a long way. No matter where you are in Australia, OSAN is always there to help - just reach out.

A B I LITY For more information, head to www.osanability.com.au FEBRUARY 2021 29

Experience the healing and rej uvenating power of nature at Kangaroo Island BY

SANDIP HOR o kangaroos welcome me as I land on the shores of Australia's third-largest island, but two centuries ago in 1802 a large number of then1 greeted English explorer Matthew Flinders.

He proceeded to seize 31 of them as meat for his ravenous crew and as a token of gratitude, named the southern discovery Kangaroo Island.

Only a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis on the southern edge of South Australia, this landmass with its towering and colourful sea cliffs, lush rolling fields, footprint free beaches, ribbons of native vegetation, thrilling wildlife, and boutique food and wine, has long been a top bucket list destination with both international and domestic travel connoisseurs.

The island is 155-km long and 55k,n wide, covering a land area of 4416 square km and encircled by 509 km of coastline. While Kingscote is the island's busiest town and home to a tiny airport, Penneshaw is another small town where the ferry from the mainland arrives. Both are located on the eastern part of the island.

Marked by the footprints of American sealers and whalers, French navigators and English colonisers, the early history 30 FEBRUARY 2021

of the island is no less invigorating. When South Australia was formally established as a British Province in 1836, Kingscote becan1e the capital and ren1ained so for four 1nonths, until Adelaide in the mainland took over. Fanning became the principal occupation of the local people and it 1natured further with the soldier resettlements after World War II. A few buildings, lighthouses, graveyards, memorials and relics still remain as poignant emblems of the early era.

Unquestionably Kangaroo Island is a beautiful 111aking of Mother Nature, who at times doesn't hesitate to destroy her own creation with deadly acts of earthquakes, floods, landslides and other disasters.

Kangaroo Island became a victim of this natural phenomenon early last year when devastating bush fires ripped through almost half of the island, terminating infrastructure, vegetation, and landscape,

and most disturbingly killing several native animals, livestock and two humans. The calamity was so spread that 96% of the 326 square km Flinders Chase National Park - one of Australia's top protected sanctuaries- turned black. It is said even the birds on the island stopped chirping.

Many including the 4000-plus locals, thought the return to former glory may not happen soon.

Mother Nature thought differently.

Twelve months on, it's amazing to see how the ecosystem is bouncing back, with huge splashes of greenery emerging from a blackened landscape.

With this tragedy still fresh in mind, my island odyssey kicks off on a depressing note, particularly after hearing from Nikki Redman, the tour guide from Kangaroo Island Odysseys, the magnitude of the bushfire. But the gloom starts to fade as I notice the regeneration all around me.

"Nature is slowly returning to norn1al," says Nikki as l see colour other than black decorating the landscape, flora like yucca plants springing back to life. We hear golden whistlers and wattle birds singing, and spot wedge-tailed eagles and black cockatoos, a special offering of the island,up in the sky.

One way of supporting the island in its recovery, is simply to visit.

In addition to observing nature's renaissance, there is still enough unaffected by the bush fires to take in and enjoy. It will not only aid the rescue, but will also boost the local econon1y shattered further by the COYID-19 pandemic. With international travel barred for the time being, it's perhaps the best time to explore this ge1nin our own backyard, not only to savour its splendours but also to support its retrieval to routine.

There's a lot in its n1enu card, so I list some of the top draw cards that make the island so special.

WILDLIFE NATURALLY Kangaroo Island is abundant with native birds, koalas, short-beaked echidnas, and of course kangaroos and wallabies. A large number of them died from the bushfires, but there are plenty that survived and it's possible to encounter them in their own habitat almost everywhere.

ENDANGERED SEA LIONS The southern coast of the island is home to sea lions. Watching them in large numbers resting in the sun or riding the waves

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on to the beach in true Aussie style is an unforgettable experience. On a guided tour it's possible to get close to these anin1als, even pose for a selfie.

STUNNING �EAFRONT OCAT ONS Getting intin1ate with sun, sea and sand is popular at several locations along the coastline - Vivonne Bay in the south, Western River Cove Bay, Snell Bay, Stokes Bay and E1nu Bay in the north, and Pennington Bay in the west are fan1ous for their spectacular settings and beaches to suit every 11100d.

ROCKY WONDERS Located at the western end of the island inside the Flinders Chase National Park are Australia's two iconic rock growths Remarkable Rocks, an impressive natural formation of orange-lichen-covered granite bou lders by the sea, and the Admirals Arch, a stalactite-covered eroded rock bridge outside of which thousands of fur seals like to sunbathe.

OLD LIGHTHOUSES Many shipwrecks occurred around the

TRAVEL NOTES Getting there: Qantas Link (www.

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island since official settlement, leading to the building of lighthouses at nearby Cape Willoughby ii1 1852, Cape Borda in 1858, Cape St Albans in 1908 and Cape du Couedic in 1909. All of these exist today as silent witnesses of the colonial past.

Lin I:. SAHARA Away from the coast, naturally evolved inland sand dunes offer tours and activities for the adventure-minded, sliding down the sandy bill being a favou rite.

qantas.com) operates daily flights from Adelaide, otherwise by ferry with Sea link (www. sealink.com.au) from Cape Jervis, located two hours south of Adelaide with coach services available to connect ferries.

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Stay: All sorts of accommodation

N UIN CO ON Penneshaw is the ho1ne to a colony of little penguins which can be seen on a gu ided tour in the evenings only.

CA PRODUCE The pristine and stress-free environment provides a fertile platform for the growth of premiu m produces. Visitors have the chance to taste some of the finest seafood, lamb, honey and locally made wine, cider, beer and gin.

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is available, from swag under trees to five star suites.

Aurora Ozone Hotel (www. auroraresorts.com.au) at Kingscote and Sea Front Hotel (www.seafront.com.au) at Penneshaw are good choices.

Tours: Kangaroo Island Odysseys (www.kangarooislandodysseys. com.au) specialises in various small group tours and tailor­ made itineraries.

More Info : Visit www.

southaustralia.com and www. tourkangarooisland.com.au

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NATIONAL EDITION

FEBRUARY 2021 31

"I used to think that all mortgage brokers are the same . . . . until I met Swati" - Koma/

�\itk --NSW

Talk to a specialist for all your Home Loan needs THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR EXPERIENCE. swati@buyerschoice.com.au

GOVERNMENT

EXPRESSIONS O F I NTEREST - NSW HEALTH

Membership - Local Health District and Specia lty Network Boards

Over 18 years of experience in finance industry.

Talk to a qualified professional.

The NSW Government is inviting applications from people interested i n becoming a member of a Local Health District or Specialty Network Board.

• Reliable Service and Privacy Guaranteed • Over 25 lenders to choose from Authorised Credit • Commercial finance Representative 400349 of BLSAA P�. Ltd. Health check for existing Home Loan (Australian Credit Licence

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Individuals should demonstrate the capacity to represent the interest of consumers of health services and the local community served by a district/network, and indicate any affiliations with universities, clinical schools or research centres, as well as skills and experience in one or more of the following areas: • corporate governance; • health management/health administration; • business /financial management /public administration; • clinical practice/provision of health services to patients; • expertise, knowledge or experience in relation to Aboriginal health; • understanding of local community issues; • understanding of or experience in primary health care.

Accepted applications will be included on the NSW Health Board Register for Local Health District and Specialty Network Boards. The Register will be used to fill vacancies on Local Health District and Specialty Network Boards during 2021 and 2022.

To apply, individuals need to complete an expression of interest indicating their skills and experience relevant to the role by Sunday 28 February 2021.

For information and to obtain an Expression of Interest form visit: health.nsw.gov.au/eoiboards. For further information please call 1 800 328 998.

•

YOU QUIT. YOU WIN. For tips from real ex-smokers visit 32 FEBRUARY 2021

iCan uit .com.au

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FOOD

• So you've plur ed n man �.,;;:- all summer - but of course you can iit in some more before the season ends, right?

BY

ANUJA VIJAY et the 111ango mania continue, we say, and you agree! If you haven't made an aam ka panna yet this --- season, try our simple recipe. Plus, a 1nango popsicle for after school, and a n1ango sandesh. for after dinner.

Each will take you back to the summer holidays of your childhood in lndia.

1 cup fresh mango pulp 1 cup frozen or fresh raspberries pureed ■ 2 tbsp honey (or more or less. to adjust sweetness to taste).

Add honey to raspberry puree.

Pour mango pulp into popsicle mould to the halfway mark. Add 1 tbsp raspberry puree. Layer with another spoon of mango pulp and then raspberry puree.

Freeze until half-frozen. say 2-3 hours.

Stick in your popsicle sticks. and then freeze until fully frozen. about 8 hours or overnight.

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MANGO COOLER 1 raw mango ¼ cup jaggery ■ Mint leaves ½ tsp black salt 1 tsp roasted cumin powder Peel the skin off the raw mango and chop into small pieces.

Cook in a pressure cooker with enough water for two whistles.

Transfer the mangoes into a blender along with a handful of mint leaves. jaggery. Blend to smooth. Sieve the pulp and add black salt and cumin. If needed. add more water to adjust consistency.

MANGO SANDESH ■ 1 litre full cream milk ■ 2 tbsp lemon juice ■ 1/3 cup powdered sugar

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NATIONAL EDITION

Thinly sliced mangoes A pinch of saffron soaked in a teaspoon of milk Bring milk to a boil in a heavy-bottomed pan. stirring occasionally. Add lemon juice and allow milk to curdle. Turn heat off and let the milk sit for five minutes to curdle completely.

Line a strainer with cheese

cloth and pour the curdled milk through. Once the whey is strained. wash the cheese with cold water.

Bring all the ends of cheese cloth together and squeeze out the excess water. Leave it in the strainer for 20 minutes to remove excess water.

Transfer cheese to a plate and knead gently with the help of your palm. You'll have to knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and soft. Add

the saffron milk.

Now add the powdered sugar and form a big ball.

Place a sheet of baking paper on the counter and roll the cheese ball in a rectangular shape evenly on it.

Place the sliced mango over the rolled cheese.

With the help of baking paper firmly roll the cheese. Leave it in fridge for 15 minutes to set.

Cut into slices with the help of a sharp knife.

FEBRUARY 2021 33

E N T E RTA I N M E N T

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1 THE WH ITE TIGER I STARRING: Adarsh Gourav,

Priyanka Chopra, Rajkummar Rao, 1 Mahesh Manjrekar, Vijay Maurya, I Swaroop Sampat DIRECTION: Ramin Bahrani

***"' I I 1 I I I I I I I I I I

"Don't believe for a second there's a million-rupee game show you can win to get out of it".

That's Bairam Halwai in The White Tiger thinking aloud, outlining the squalid poverty that he lives every day, as opposed to what Jamal Malik i n Slumdog Millionaire might have said.

The White Tiger sets its tone bluntly with that line, somewhere in the early portion of a two hour-odd runtime.

The idea is clear: there is no superstar-hosted miracle game show waiting to deliver you if you are Bairam Halwai, dehati driver devoted to a

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I wealthy upper caste 'master'. But if 1

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you are Bairam, and at the wrong end of the social stratum, getting at the wrong end of the law might just help.

Only, in a country where 'Wanted' posters that cops issue rarely ever look like the culprit, you have to be smart enough to get away with it.

It is a notion that triggers instant chaos as we enter Balram's world, and the mood pervades beneath all that goes on, as the film captures the essence of two very different lndias that have learnt to coexist. From the gutters of Laxmangarh village in backwater Bihar, where Bairam hails from, to the world of super-swanky Gurgaon condos, where he ends up a driver for his morally malleable, ultra­ rich employers, it's interesting how the film captures the reality about both milieus with discomforting precision.

It leaves you intrigued all the more

I because the man who gets it so right - Iranian-American filmmaker I I I

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RaminBahrani - has never lived in either India.

It is easy, of course, to root for The White Tiger for its performances, because the cast is what primarily draws your attention. Adarsh Gourav as Bairam Halwai, rises from the fringes to deliver a defining performance, as Bahrani unfolds his life story brimming with unapologetic tragi-comedy. Bal ram's is a journey from lower-class ignominy to what he hopes will one day be a tale of successful entrepreneurship.

The grey story of ambition gets a twist of colour when he meets Pinky madam (Priyanka Chopra Jonas, in surely her most assured performance in years), drop-dead gorgeous wife of his employer Ashok (Rajkummar Rao, awkwardly out of sync with forced accent). Indeed, the

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plush world of Ashok is an awakening of sorts for Bairam. Sly and ambitious that he always was, Bairam manages to penetrate Ashok's world in a way he becomes increasingly indispensable to his master.

Yet, Balram's rude awakenings will not be restricted to the realisation of the acute class divide that exists.

He will be shocked to realise after a tragic incident one night how disposable he actually is to his employers. Bairam understands the only way to buck the class divide, which is wholly loaded against him, it is to break all master-servant rules that have been drilled into his mind since childhood.

Maintaining the narrative tone of Aravind Adiga's Man Booker Prize­ winning book of the same name, Bahrani's screenplay unfolds as a letter Bairam writes to erstwhile Chinese premier Wen Jiabao, around his India visit of 2010. As Bairam punches in his story on a laptop, the idea is to lay bare a representative citizen of one of the two most populous nations in the world to the head of the other. Does Bairam really represent India, and the nation's moral, economic and cultural fibre?

We will give the makers of this film the advantage of creative liberty.

For, Bahrani does keep his narrative as close as possible to Adiga·s story.

The book was always gripping, and the writer-director uses the advantage to credibly establish every socio-cultural comment inherent in the tale.

Witty i n tone, heart-rending in its impact and entertaining overall.

Vinayak Chakravorty

M AT R I M O N IALS ................................................................................. .............................................................. .

lliiPAVNLESS ■ IDENTA L

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FEBRUARY 2021

Professionally qualified match required for '88-born, 5"3" Hindu Punjabi girl, divorced (short marriage, issueless). Working full time in Sydney. Pref teetotaller. Must have Aus PR. Email: matrimonial.ml@gmail.com.

SEEKING BRIDES

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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

M USIC

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' The writer with OP in 1985

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Why OP Nayyar continues to be SHYAMAL BHATIA's favourite musician am an ardent admirer of OP Nayyar's n1usic. Anyone who knows me well, knows of 1ny love for Indian film n1usic from the 1940s to the 1970s. l have grown up listening to, and thoroughly enjoying, songs by co1nposers ranging from Pankaj MaUick and R C Bora! through to R D Burman.

But if l must pick a personal favourite among these it would have to be Nayyar.

1 have often wondered to 111yself why it is that I like Nayyar's n1usic so much, and what it is in his songs that makes for such pleasurable listening. What is it that sets it apart fron1 the others?

Early exposure

I was introduced to Nayyar's music in 1ny early teens by my brother, Tushar Bhatia (Music Director, Andaz Apna Apna). The radio was playing Ek pardesi 1nera di/ le gaya fro1n the fihn Phagun.

"You have to listen to this," he said, and went on to point out bow the song begins on a single beat for the first line and then doubles up for the next fate }ate ,neetha meetha gham de gaya.

"Notice the word repetition - jate jate and meetha meetha," he said. "Isn't it wonderful?"

That was it. I was mesn1erised by the song and found 1nyself instinctively tapping my feet.

And from that point on began my journey of 'discovering' 0 P Nayyar.

Collecting OP

The discovery of each previously unheard NATIONAL EDITION

OP song was like uncovering treasure, and through 1ny school and university days I spent hours searching for these songs to add to 111y collection. Radio Vividh Bharti and Radio Ceylon were the obvious sources and 1 would sit patiently with my cassette recorder waiting for the announcer to utter the words "music direction O P Nayyar" before I pressed the REC button.

1 recaU going to Rhyth1n House, an iconic music store in Mumbai, with Tusharbhai just to be able to listen to the songs from the film Aar Paar. Rhythm House had listening booths where you could sit down and listen to LPs before you bought them. 'Try before you buy' as the saying goes, except we never bought.

We could not afford the pricey sum of Rs 30 for the LP back then. We were simply there to bear the songs - Babuji dhire chalna, Sun sun sun sun zali,na and Hoon abhi ,naijawan would run shivers down my spine. They still do.

Chor Bazar in Mumbai is a large flea market with dozens of stores selling second-hand goods. I remember finding an EMI Pakistan release LP of Yeh Raat Phir na Aayegi which I ended up purchasing for Rs 100. That was later in my uni days and while Rs 100 was still a large sum, I could now afford an occasional splurge. The record was out of issue in India and buying this rare copy was most certainly worth it.

Chor Bazar becan1e a regular haunt where I painstakingly went through piles of dusty 78rpm records in the hope of finding a Nayyar song. I discovered rare songs like

Chaya hai senna mera di/ hai jawan (Qaidi); Man more gaa jhoo,n ke (Mangu) and Aha ha ha jawani jhootnti hai (Bade Sarkar).

A cassette with all Howrah Bridge songs and one with a highly echoey recording of Mangu and Musafirkhana songs were exciting finds.

Smuggling my cassette recorder into matinee shows of Hum Sub Chor I-lain, and Pran Jaye Par Vachan Na Jaye to tape the songs, and recording off Chayageet on Doordarshan resulted in n1e augmenting my collection.

So n1uch more adventurous and thrilling to discover and collect this way, rather than downloading off YouTube!

Meeting the man himself

I had the opportunity to meet OP Nayyar several times thanks to a friend Arshad Sultan. Arshadsaab was the representative of Pakistan Airways based in Mumbai and Nayyar, being a close friend, frequently visited him in his Cuffe Parade apartment.

Arshadsaab organised several mehfils attended by fans and we would spend hours singing and listening to stories about Nayyar's music career. These are occasions I wi!J never forget and be eternally grateful for.

The man, the music

I can broadly categorise Nayyar's music career into three eras. The first in the '50s where he predominantly used Mohammed Rafi, Shamshad Begum and Geeta Dutt as singers -Aye dil aye deeivane (Baaz), Yeh lo mai hari piya (Aar Paar), Thandi hawa kali

ghata and Jaane kahan mera jigar (Mr and Mrs 55), Boojh mera kya naam (CID), Badi rangeeli zindagi (Shrimati 420), Tum jo hue mere humsafar (12 o'clock).

I'm still blown away by Thoda sa di/ laga ke dekh (Musafirkhana) where Nayyar had Shamshad sing the words with Rafi singing the interlude music throughout.

Then came the era where Asha Bhosle became his prime singer. The sophistication in his orchestration and his use of 1nusicians like Rais Khan (sitar), Shivkumar Sharma (santoor), Zarin Daruwala (sarod) and Rain Narain (sarangi) added a diamond like lustre to his songs. Romantic musicals Like Mere Sanani, Sawan ki Ghata, Kashn1ir Ki Kali, Yeh Raat Phir Na Aayegi, Flumsaya, Ek Musafir Ek Haseena gave us songs like faiye aap kahan jayenge, Pukarta chalahoon ,nai, Zara haule haule chalo, Phir milogekabhi, Oil ki awaz bhi su' and Bahut shukriya.

San1bandh was a turning point once again.

With serious, meaningful songs like Andhere ,ne jo baithehain, Tu,nko to karodo saal and Akeli hoon mai piya, Nayyar showed us a side rarely seen in his previous work.

OP fan forever

Coming back to the question of WHY I like Nayyar's music as much as I do, I can only conclude that 1 don't really need to understand why I like it so n1uch, it touches the heart and that is enough.

J'vleri nazaren haseen hai ke tum ho haseen, yeh samajhne ki mujhko zoorurat nahin, baat nazaron ki hai baat kuch bhi nahin jisko di/ chhahe duniya me hai who haseen.

FEBRUARY 2021 35

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STREAMING YOUR LIFE • YOUR MUSIC 36 FEBRUARY 2021

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F O R ET E L L

February 2021

BY M I NAL KH O NA Mina I Khona has been reading tarot cards for the last two decades. She uses her intuition and connect with the cards mostly to help people.

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The chariot card drawn for you signifies a need for balance in your life. It also stands for victory: focus on your goals, you are on the right path. The charioteer in the card represents one's higher self so if you are on a spiritual quest, you will find growth. If a situation no longer serves your higher purpose, you will walk away from it - whether it is a job or a relationship. Watch out for mood swings this month.

I I I I I I I I I You could go through bouts of I insecurity regarding money this month. Don't worry, it will teach you I to value money and not let it own you.

I Balance your expenses. If you are I looking to sell property, it will be sold.

Despite obstacles, you will continue I with your significant other if in a I new relationship. If there's a health problem, take a second opinion before I it becomes chronic. Success is yours I this month but ask yourself what is it I really worth.

I I I I I I I I I I The card picked represents the sign of I Taurus so the finicky Virgo could well be I stubborn this month. Or you may meet I someone who is a Taurean. Stress in a relationship almost makes you walk away I but you won't. Positive changes are round I the corner so don't give up on the one you love. Travel plans fall through. Dental I problems are indicated. Money matters I need resolving. Earlier blocks in your I head, work or personal life ease up and positive changes are on the way.

I

I I I I I I I I I This month, Gems could do some I soul searching and seek answers from their higher selves. On the work I front, it is good to know the pros and I cons before making a decision. A I short trip could be on the agenda. If you've had a setback, you could lack I confidence but work on yourself. You I can resolve a lot of your problems by controlling your thoughts. Money I could be tight but finances improve I shortly. Pay attention to tummy bugs or 1 headaches.

I I I I I I I I I I A difficult month for Librans as setbacks, I delays, stress and separation [even a I divorce] can besiege them this month.

I A romantic relationship can cause some heartache but all is not lost A new project at I work doesn't quite excite you. Many of your I problems are really self-created, so control your thoughts. Watch against deceit in some I form. Take a break from work; especially I if you are struggling with depression. Any I setback you face is short-lived so don't panic or do something impulsive.

I

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I The card drawn for you signifies I I I success at work: you will use your will power productively. Don't let I I temptations override common sense, I I and think before you act, especially in I I matters of the heart. You will take up a much-needed break. Money could I be tight but funds under dispute will I I come to you. You may take a decision I regarding a business or a relationship.

1 It will end any dilemmas inside you.

I I Accept your current situation and don't I I I force outcomes.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I You may display a Leo-like gregariousness I not usually associated with the secretive I I Scorpios. Or you might meet someone who I is a Leo. You will have success at work I and you desire a position of author ty.

I i I But try not to become too demanding or I I controlling. A relationship could leave you I feeling resentful or jealous. A passionate I love affair could be on the anvil for those I I who are single. A rocky relationship will I Health remains upbeat and good luck I end.

I is with you all month.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Indulge in some self-analysis this month; I I repeated patterns and old habits could be I holding you back on mu tiple levels. It is I also a card of rejection, lsubstance abuse, I I loss of a loved one and even heartbreak.

I I Yet, the universe will give you a helping I hand through someone. Don't get so I familiar with someone that they get bored I I with you. Business improves for the sel f I employed and resources to acquire money I through multiple avenues will come. Give I I yourself some love and TLC this month.

I

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You draw a destiny card this month, so go with the flow where possible. There could be new business ventures coming your way. A short trip could introduce you to a potential business partner or romantic interest. Watch your health, especially your heart. It could also indicate a heart attack for a family member. Friends give you the support you need. Finances improve, especially in the realm of investments or profits. Persevere without worrying about the results.

• --------- •---------•---------•--------I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

Your card this month stands for the sign of Gemini so you could blow hot and cold on matters that interest you. If single, you could meet someone reliable, a financial advisor or a man in a position of authority.

A disagreement in a relationship doesn't get resolved immediately but you will reunite. You impress your bosses at work and a new project based on past work could come your way. Health improves overall. You prosper financially this month.

Be diligent in your work.

NATIONAL EDITION

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Your card represents Libra so the usually I The usually generous Aquarians need to I indecisive Capricorns may take even I look out for feelings of lack this month. longer to make up their minds this month.

Guard against a poverty of spirit kind of I Nervous energy is indicated, and you could I approach and practice gratitude instead.

I lose focus this month. You could also I Seek inner guidance for everything that I meet someone who is December-January I needs clarity. Expenses could mount Some born, probably a professional - or a of you may even have an extra marital affair.

I military person. Work is stressful; watch for I You need rest from a period of mental and I bacterial infections. Change how you relate I emotional stress. Work colleagues could be difficult this month. A fall or injury will need to people for better results on all fronts.

I A legal matter ends in a win for you. Stay I medical attention. Spiritual guidance sees I detached to make the right decisions.

I you through a tough month.

FEBRUARY 2021 37

BAC KCHAT Do you have a question for Auntyji?

Email: info@indianlink.com.au

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Eve ry b reath is a b l essi n g DEAR AUNTYJI It's been 12 months of COVID and we have not heard a peep out of you.

Where have you been, are you well, and what thoughts have you had?

Sub kuch theek thaak to hai?

The world is a different place it appears, so much has changed and people are still up to all their crazy tricks. We have needed a voice like yours to help all of us stay sane - and you have not said a single word. Ab to kuch kaho nah!

AUNTYJI SAYS Arre mere yaaro, mere bhakt, mere imli ki kesundhi, mai yaheen to thi, our kaha jaati tum logon se door? But haan, thodi si shaant thi, because I needed time to sochna samajhna ki is duniya mein ho kya raha hail. You see, early last year. we had massive bushfires here and the air literally become foul.

Soans Jena mushkil ho gaya tho.

Literally. Us ke baad. I notice ki our black saathis in the US were getting killed and they couldn't breathe because someone was putting their

knees on their throat. PhirCOVID hua. and the people were finding it hard to breathe again. and those who died did so after gasping for air. It occurred to me that there is a message here. Nature and the universe are giving us signals that each breath is a blessing, and we need to be more responsible - to those around us and to the planet itself. So mai apni saans gin rahi thi and thinking about how to make this world a better place. But then. early this year I realised the world needs a wake-up call, and it needs someone like me to point out the bitter truth to all you andhe log. To jaago. mere doston, our dekho - instead of asking me how I am, ask yourself what you have done to make the world a better place. Have you acted with love and wisdom, respect and tolerance. or have you been wasting your time posting rubbish on Facebook?

Have you shown compassion and humdardi to your parivaar and fellow saathis, or have you remained an ignorant bewakuf? Likh kar mujhe batao, mere bachche shaitaano.

DEAR AUNTYJI I am a 30-year-old single man born and raised in Australia. but I straddle both Indian and Aussie culture. Now I don't know many people with kids and most of my extended family are in Canada. US and Norway. So I have not had much contact with bacche log. In any case, I have moved to a new block of units to live in Sydney and it appears this block of flats is full of people with babies. There are babies of every colour. size and sound intensity. Some are fat and others are skinny... but the mote mote Asian ones are the cutest.

Now usually I am indifferent to kids but I am intrigued by these fat. squishy little beings. and now I am wondering whether I too should get married and have kids of my own. But Auntyji, the world is a rough place; is it the right thing to do to bring a child into this world? And is it mandatory to have kids? What are your thoughts?

AUNTYJI SAYS Alie le my chiknal Kitne pyara hai re tu getting all clucky like that! I am so proud of you for asking such an insightful. intelligent question. Someone like you deserves to have children instantly, because you

have already demonstrated that you are a superior human being. Most people have bacche because that's what people do - and some people just do it without any thinking about whether lunatics like them should have kids in the first place. The only reason we have children is to continue the human race. That's the basic, most fundamental reason. But if you don't do it then someone else will - so the question for you is to assess whether you have any superior genes to contribute to the human gene pool. So for all the badmash, bewakuf and budtehzeeb log, there are other samajdhar log who need to balance the scale. It seems like you need to contribute your intellect and wisdom to the human gene pool otherwise there will be a levelling off of illiterate ashikshit vyakti who have their 2-3 children who don't help progress humanity. As for the world being rough - yes. that's true. But it's up to us to do our best to make it a better place for our children. So. go forth and procreate post haste. Just make sure the mother is not a psycho who will pass on her faulty genes and offset your superior ones in your progeny. How to find a spouse who is not lattoo is your next question. Agar meri rai chahiye to batana.

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We need to all keep making COVI DSafe choices to help stop the spread.

• Keep physical distancing i n p u b l i c s pa ces.

• Wear a mask when needed.

• Practise good hyg iene.

• Protect oth ers and stay at home if you're u nwel l . If you ' re experiencing cold or flu-l ike symptoms get tested fo r COV I D-19.

• H ave the COVI DSafe app.

Together let's keep going and stay safe.

Visit health.gov.au for more information, or call the Nationa l Coronavirus H e l p l i ne on 1800 020 080.

For translating and i nterpreting services cal l 131 450.

Australian Government Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra NATIONAL EDITION

FEBRUARY 2021 39

40 FEBRUARY 2021

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