2022-10 Melbourne

All things Indian. In Australia.

MELBOURNE

OCTOBER 2022

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TEN of our best restaurant desserts

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MAY THE LIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL ILLUMINATE ALL THAT IS GOOD AND BRING PEACE, PROSPERITY AND WISDOM TO YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES THIS DIWALI. Help keep the celebrations safe by choosing to wear a mask indoors or gathering in well ventilated spaces. For up to date information go to coronavirus.vic.gov.au On behalf of the Victorian Government, we wish everyone a very Happy Diwali!

Dan Andrews Premier of Victoria

Ros Spence Minister for Multicultural Affairs

Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

2 OCTOBER 2022

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contents special features INDIA-OZ External Affair Minister Dr S Jaishankar visits

ACCOLADES

Dr Sonu Bhaskar: 40 Under 40 Asian Australians

KIDS

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Announcing winners of Diwali Kids Art Contest 2022

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OPINION

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Apple TV’s Shantaram

TRAVEL

Victoria’s Phillip Island

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cOVER sTORY Sweet Diwali

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Our list of the top ten desserts in Indian restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne

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www.indianlink.com.au

EDITORIAL

Chroniclers of community:

All things Indian. In Australia.

28 years young

PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra CONTRIBUTORS Rhea L Nath, Ritam Mitra, Bedashree Gogoi, Sunil Badami, Sunil Ranadive, LP Ayer, Suheyla Sharif, Iqra Saeed, Minal Khona, Auntyji SALES AND MARKETING Charu Vij ADMN Harmeet Kaur

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 Email: info@indianlink.com.au

by PAWAN LUTHRA

“Y

ou are the custodians of the Indian community’s history in Australia.”

The weight of these words struck us when a well-wisher recently described us so. Hearing that statement, (and later, seeing that ad on page 23 of this issue!) brought home to us the sheer length of the journey we’ve travelled with you, our readers and listeners.

We’ve been fortunate to have been storytellers of Australia’s Indian community for 28 years now. What a privilege it has been to record the different chapters over the years, as we jointly reached new heights in business, corporate, science, arts, community service, sport and other endeavours.

The documenting of our history expanded across platforms as new avenues of communication opened up. Indian Link is still the community’s only continuous published masthead - having printed every month, even during COVID lockdowns.

Indian Link Radio, born in 2002,

entertains and informs, has real-time interaction in a 24/7 format, and is an integral part of the daily lives of many of you reading this.

As we embraced digital, Indian Link took on many ‘new looks’ in connecting with community. Our website is refreshed with new stories everyday, and at last count had over 800,000 monthly impressions. Our Facebook, Insta and Twitter accounts offer thought-provoking content as well as lifestyle features, and yes, the occasional cat videos (how could we miss those).

Many of you who have given up on your print habit continue to engage with us digitally, faithfully opening our weekly enewsletter – which has just under 50,000 subscribers today.

Even as the community has burgeoned from less than 100,000 in 1994 to over 750,000 in 2021 and counting, the avenues from which to gather community information have similarly increased, and this is heartening for us to observe as our own industry evolves. We must all however, endeavour to uphold our responsibility to this community, and ensure the fair and accurate representation of all its views.

Without this, the core social values of free expression and critical debate are restrained, limiting our growth and development.

As the relationship between India and Australia continues to grow, the obvious trend of higher Indian migration will continue. It is important that they get the full story rather than ‘selfies’.

What excites us about the future is the clear trend emerging with young IndianAustralians as they burst into mainstream Australia – ambitious, industrious, intelligent and articulate, they are keen not only to make a mark in their field, but to speak up for what they believe is right, to join movements for righting wrongs, and to be the change they want to see in the world.

We can’t wait to unravel the treasure trove of their stories.

A word of thanks to our fellow chroniclers of community - our contributors, radio presenters and office team - you make it possible for us to continue doing what we do.

Our readers, listeners and followers, thank you for your trust.

To our advertisers, those who have been with us for years as well as those who jumped on in recent months, we value your support.

To all of you together, a sincere thanks from Rajni and I, for being part of our own journey of growth.

As we begin our 29th year, all we can say is, it’s been a blast.

HAPPY DUSSEHRA May you and your loved ones find renewed hope, strength and joy as the feasts are prepared and decorations light up your homes this festive season.

Help keep the celebrations safe by choosing to wear a mask indoors or gathering in well ventilated spaces.

For up to date information go to coronavirus.vic.gov.au On behalf of the Victorian Government, Happy Dussehra!

Dan Andrews Premier of Victoria

Ros Spence Minister for Multicultural Affairs

Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.

OCTOBER 2022 5

YOUR SAY

SPOTLIGHT ON THE MONARCHY PAWAN LUTHRA wrote about the growing movement for an Australian Republic, especially among members of the multicultural community Maurice Newman wrote: The Queen was not a transgressor but simply the inheritor of the crown under which over 100 years ago, atrocities undoubtedly occurred. If the logic is to disrespect the Queen for her heritage rather than acknowledge her positive actions, such as her support for sanctions against South Africa and the independence of the colonies, Indians should be persecuting all Muslims for their attempted genocide of Hindus over some 800 years and seeking an apology and restitution from Iran. No doubt the death of the Queen evoked both positive and negative feelings amongst everyday Indians. That there were two weeks of national mourning and that the President met with the new king, suggest that India is looking forward and embracing the British legacy of democracy and the rule of law rather than dwell on the negatives of empire. As we in Australia have experienced, in a practical sense, apologies for past transgressions are meaningless. The return of a diamond apparently lawfully given, may bring comfort to some but is unlikely to benefit the average Indian. For Indians and outside observers, Queen Elizabeth was a force for good and it is that which will live after her.

Tanya Curtin wrote: Well said, Pawan. The empire fails to resonate with so many in the Commonwealth so the new King will have to do something to 'connect' with them.

Renu Datta wrote: [It’s] time to debate. Nice article.

ON DURGA PUJA PANDALS IN KOLKATA This fascinating Durga Puja pandal in Bakulbagan, Kolkata, inspired by Van Gogh's Starry Night, took your fancy. (Pic: TathagathaNeogi/ Twitter) Anagha N Meher wrote: This is just amazing. Breaking from the stereotype décor and thinking out of the box... so good.

Priyam Mohapatra wrote: It’s been good to be out and about this year after the pandemic. Amongst the pandals we had St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, Burj Khalifa, Lord’s Pavillion (with Sourav Ganguly himself making an appearance, no less), a pet-themed pandal, an opulent rajbari (mansion) theme, and one in tribute to popular singer KK who passed this year after a performance.

SAY IT AGAIN 6 OCTOBER 2022

Being forced to wear hijab and being forced to remove it are forms of state control that Muslim women around the world are resisting. Bodily autonomy is at the core of human freedom.

Laila Lalami, author

50 YEARS IN AUSTRALIA Australia was a little different when LP AYER and wife Jaya landed here way back in 1972.

Arun wrote: Well written and why won’t it be! A journalist and a librarian all rolled into one.

Latha Pandya wrote: Really positive story. Wish it was longer!

Renee Moses wrote: Amazing how they made it considering we were only allowed to take 3 pounds out in my day. But I had relatives here to bail me out.

Great story. Thanks for sharing.

Amit Narwal wrote: Great story and quite a struggle to adjust into different country.

Pallavi Grandhi wrote: Fun reading this.

Kapila Ruby wrote: Great anecdote Mr Ayer. Would love to read more about your life journey after coming to this great country named Australia.

Roopa Mrudul wrote: Amazing, every immigrant has a story… Proud to be Australian, this country has given us a lot.

Prerana PB wrote: Amazing journey! An inspiration to all of us. We landed here just 4 years ago, and it’s been the same journey since then, [from] living at some relative’s house to landing our first job. Many linguistic terms difficult to understand at first! Would love to read more of your story.

Gizelle Daniel wrote: Thank you for sharing your story.

Sonya Coelho wrote: We migrated to Melb in 1974 from Mumbai, with the same surname Iyer.

Sandra Steel wrote: Fabulous story!

Garba at New York’s Times Square You liked and shared our dance video on the occasion of Navratri, prompting all kinds of comments, not all congratulatory.

Pooja Mandal Pandit wrote: I don’t know much about garba, but your steps are clear and mesmerising.

Minal Panchal wrote: But nobody seems to be watching…?

Garfield Jones wrote: Garba looks good when performed in a large group.

Jaymin Bhatt wrote: Garba always brings happiness.

Dalip Thukral wrote: Pleasing to watch.

Next time go for higher participation of Garba dancers.

Sandhya Hegde wrote: Not graceful at all – all that hair movement.

Lachhhhman Karamchandani wrote: Wow. Beautifully performed.

Satyam Venkata Mahendra wrote: Very different style of garba. Cool!

Karthic Ashokan wrote: But there is no idol? Garba is a religious dance, not for fun or “reels content”.

Ferns Art wrote: Garba reached Times Square.

Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango reached India years ago.

Neither the Viennese, the English nor the Argentinians boasted about it.

Bhim B Thakulla wrote: Best advertisement for Thor: Love and Thunder, in garba style too! (Referring to film posters visible in the background.)

Nikhil Agrawal wrote: Can anyone share the song name?

Kalpash Parakh wrote: Goosebumps.

No amount of scholarly expertise on an issue will ever be more valid than expertise gained from lived experience. Please remember this before telling a person from a marginalised group you don't belong to that they're wrong because your research contradicts their experience.

Dr Ashleigh Haw, academic

www.indianlink.com.au

EY AUSTRALIA UNDER THE MICROSCOPE The community weighed in on the appointment of high-profile lawyer Elizabeth Broderick AO to lead a review of EY’s workplace culture, one month after senior auditor Aishwarya Venkatachalam’s suicide at its Sydney office.

Sriraman Annaswamy wrote: HEARTENING to see a veteran investigator renowned for her strong independent character like Elizabeth Broderick take up the role to carry out the investigation into this tragic demise of our community member, Aishwarya Venkatachalam. Not sure whether Elizabeth Broderick has the racial background and cultural understanding on how Indian accountants and auditors are made to work in Big Four "centres of excellence" in India and then brought here to work for them 10 to 15 hours a day, but am sure she'll figure it out.

Krishna Neelamraju wrote: Very sad. I hope the investigation goes beyond the logos of ‘corporate culture’ and touches upon the pathos of migration. And how EY and other mass employers of migrants spend next to no resources to help with that transition. Can’t do it without diverse representation including migrant voices on the investigating team. I hope the accomplished team at Elizabeth Broderick & Co ensures that.

Menaka Iyengar wrote: This is typical. Racism and bullying are often described as jokes and light-hearted banter between colleagues. NOT true! I have experienced many such interactions during my 50 years in Australia – from a lowly Admin Asst to HR Director.

WHERE IN INDIA On the occasion of Eid-e-Milad, we asked you to recognise this mosque and dargah, one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city which hosts it.

Where is it and what is it called?

CAPTION CONTEST We asked, what’s the chitchat here between Kamal Hassan and Ranveer Singh?

Pavneet Kaur won a movie ticket for her response: Kamal Hassan: Beta, ab toh sunglasses utaar do, raat ho gayi hai. Ranveer Singh: Yeh mera isshtyle hai, aap nahi samjhoge.

Padmini Sunderaj wrote: Kaisa hai yeh bandhan, anjaana?

Smita Pawar Nashikkar wrote: Tu kapde pehen kar aaya, kya baat hai.

Gaurav Sabharwal wrote: Kya Kamal muchhi hai aapki.

Kunal Anil Sharma wrote: Kamal: Finally you dress like a normal human being.

Hitarthi Doshi Mehta wrote: Kitne paise bacha liye tune?

Poonam Gupta wrote: Ranveer: Dada, woh Chachi 420 wale kapade do na mujhe pehanane ko.

Rachna Gupta wrote: Kamal: Don't underestimate the power of dhai kilo ka haath.

Arix Bishnoi wrote: Kamal: Wearing a suit! Kya hua, Deepika hide her clothes?

Ranveer: Na, this is her suit.

Ritika Maggu wrote: Kamal: Aaj bade saaf suthre kapde pehne hain!

WHERE IN OZ A beautifully broken-down wreck, which has miraculously sprouted a lush forest of mangrove trees. Where in Australia can you find this?

This must’ve been an easy one – readers Chitra Iyer, Mahak Bhalla Dhingra, Arix Bishnoi, Gunjan Mathur, Maurya Morya, and Yash Shah-Tai guessed right: Haji Ali Dargah, off the coast of Mumbai.

It is so refreshing to see a South Asian protagonist who has a storyline beyond having strict parents or an arranged marriage. Love Heartbreak High so much.

Avani Dias, South Asia Correspondent, ABC News

Readers Chitra Iyer, Sid Gandhi, Sapna Joshi, Vandana Mathur, and Bhanu Kothari had the correct answer: SSR Ayrfield in Homebush Bay, NSW.

For us who are Asian-Australian, it is of course about us. But it can't just be about us. This is bigger and larger than us. It’s about ensuring that Australia lives up to its promise. That Australia lives up to its very best.

Tim Soutphommasane’s keynote address at the 2022 40 Under 40 Asian Australian awards

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HAPPY

On behalf of Cumberland Council, I would like to wish you a Happy Diwali.

May your Diwali be filled with light and laughter and bring joy, peace and health to you and your family.

- Mayor Lisa Lake -

8757 9000 www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au Cumberland City Council Sydney 16 Memorial Avenue, PO Box 42, Merrylands NSW 2160

8 OCTOBER 2022

www.indianlink.com.au

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OCTOBER 2022 9

INDIA-OZ

India-Australia alliance c Amidst the visit to Australia by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar - the latest in a flurry of high-profile bilateral visits - the promise of mutual benefit looks set to finally mature by PAWAN LUTHRA

T

hat India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar made a second visit to Australia in a period of eight months, shows the desire by both countries in deepening their relationship.

This fact was brought up a few times during his trip, and not by himself alone.

Minister Jaishankar also brought up on more than one occasion that six of his cabinet colleagues have visited Australia since June this year, among them the Minister for Coal and Mines for renewable energy, for Education, for Water Resources, and the Home Minister.

“We have also seen the Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister as well as the Deputy Premier of Western Australia, and the Premier of New South Wales travel to India with business delegations,” Dr Jaishankar noted.

Yet this was also the first visit by the External Affairs Minister to Australia since the Ukraine–Russia conflict started.

10 OCTOBER 2022

Both India and Australia, though allies in the Quad, have opposite policies on this conflict.

While Australia has joined the United States and other western democracies on condemning Russia on this transgression, India has resolutely stood by Russia, refusing to join any United Nations censure of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and has continued trading and buying oil from the country.

The issue came up for comment almost as soon as questions began at a Canberra press conference. Asked about the close relationship, Mr Jaishankar clarified that India has been very clearly against the conflict in Ukraine.

“We believe that this conflict does not serve the interests of anybody, neither of the participants nor indeed of the international community,” he stated. “And as a country of the Global South, we have been seeing firsthand how much it has impacted low-income countries [in terms of] the challenges that they are facing with fuel, food, and fertilizers. My Prime Minister said a few weeks ago that this is not an era of war; a conflict today in some corner of the world can have a very profound impact on everybody across the

world, and that continues to guide our thinking.”

On the question of any changes to its relationship with Russia Dr Jaishankar reiterated the long-standing relationship with Russia, which “has certainly served India’s interests well.”

Whether the performance of Russian weapons systems in Ukraine has given India cause to think about reducing its reliance on those weapons systems, Dr Jaishankar acknowledged India has a substantial inventory of Soviet and Russian origin weapons, pointing the finger at the United States for this situation. He stated, “For multiple decades, Western countries did not supply weapons to India and in fact, saw a military dictatorship next to us as the preferred partner. In international politics, we deal with what we have; we make judgements which are reflective of both our future interests as well as our current situation. In terms of this current conflict, like every military conflict, my sense is that we are learning from it and I’m sure my very professional colleagues in the military would be studying it very carefully.”

The only question not focussed on India, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Quad and

AUKUS, centred on security concerns of the Indian diaspora. Recently, India issued a travel warning for its citizens in Canada and those planning to travel there, citing a sharp increase in incidents of hate crimes, sectarian violence, and anti-India activities.

The travel warning seemed to follow a Khalistan referendum voting in Brampton.

This would no doubt be an area of concern for those even here in Australia, who have been witnessing growing communal tensions in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, primarily flowing over from events taking place in India.

The Minister was asked, how concerned is India about such activities spreading internationally as the community grows, including in Australia?

In his clear and soft manner, the Minister took this opportunity to chide Canada. He said, “I want to be very clear here, when we issue travel advisories, we do so for the safety of our citizens. So I would urge you not to read something into a travel advisory which is beyond the advisory. What some other country does presumably reflects their thinking and their policies. As to the Khalistan issue that you have raised, you know from time to time, we have engaged the Canadian government. I have myself

www.indianlink.com.au

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar at a press conference after a bilateral meeting at Parliament House in Canberra, October 10, 2022. (Photo: AP)

continues to strengthen engaged my counterpart on this issue and we have flagged the need to ensure that freedoms in a democratic society are not misused by forces which advocate violence and bigotry. So, it’s important for countries to understand today how democracies

should function not only at home but also the responsibilities the democracies have to other democracies abroad.”

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed at the press conference that Australia was opening a Consulate General

for Australia in Bengaluru in 2023 and was looking forward to Dr. Jaishankar being able to finalize an additional presence here in Australia. Another issue on the agenda is the double taxation treaty between the two countries.

As part of his visit to Australia, Minister Jaishankar met many federal ministers, and paid tributes at the Australian War Memorial, including a mention of the Indian-origin Private Nairn Singh Sailani in one of his many tweets during the trip.

Meeting the local community in Sydney

“W

ith the likes of you as ambassadors of India, my job becomes easy,” the External Affairs Minister of India Dr S Jaishankar told his compatriots at a meet-and-greet at the Sydney Marriot Hotel.

Dr Jaishankar was in Australia for the 13th Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue with his Australian counterpart Senator Penny Wong. Concluding his first day in Canberra, the Indian minister spent the morning with the Australian Armed Forces, his social media account showing him all kitted up for an army helicopter ride. Later, an equally significant engagement, this time on the hallowed turf of the Sydney Cricket Ground, where he went for a walkabout with Aussie cricket legend and Indophile Steve Waugh.

Connecting with the local Indian

community that evening, Dr Jaishankar reemphasised the importance which both countries – India and Australia – are giving to the bilateral relationship.

The constant interaction of the top political leaders of the two countries in just six months is indicative of that momentum, he said.

He described the “two pivotal times” in the relationship as the 2014 visit of PM Narendra Modi, and the signing of the recent trade agreement between the two counties.

“Though the trade levels are about $27 billion, I am confident that this will increase strongly as the activities between the two countries have increased,” he said. “Education is one area where both countries are keen to see greater momentum. Australia has some of the best education facilities, and India has a young population keen

to benefit from higher education -these are opportunities for both countries.”

He also touched upon the work being done for Indian qualifications to be accepted in Australia, and progress in the discussions on double taxation

issues between the two countries.

Dr Jaishankar also shared the view that while the COVID outbreak, especially the Delta variant, was traumatic for people in India, it also was an opportunity for learning. “Post COVID, medical facilities have been ramped up in India, and some of the earlier initiatives of the Modi government such as encouraging people to open bank accounts helped with relief payments reaching out to millions,” he observed.

He confirmed that India’s exports are growing at their fastest rate ever, whereas other nations are still trying to get to their pre-COVID growth rates.

“At the end of the day, the relationship between two countries is about the connection between their people,” the Minister concluded, urging all to be effective ambassadors of their home country here in Australia.

OCTOBER 2022 11

ACCOLADES

Stroke of

genius

Sydney’s Dr Sonu Bhaskar is one of 40 Under 40 Asian Australians, honoured for his revolutionary approach to studying the causation of strokes by RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

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onu Bhaskar, MD PhD PHF FANA, physician-scientist and academic neurologist, has been named in this year’s 40 Under 40 Most Influential Asian Australians list.

This honour comes close on the heels of another prestigious win only weeks ago, this time for Global Talent, in the 2022 Global Australian Awards.

As Director of the Global Health Neurology Lab in Sydney, Dr Bhaskar launched the world’s first brain clot biobank, a new initiative in the prevention and treatment of strokes. It has won him international acclaim.

“The 40 Under 40 recognition, I believe, is a recognition of all migrants, whatever backgrounds they may come from,” he told Indian Link. “It shows we are making a small but meaningful impact on the larger community.”

His own work with the NSW Brain Clot Bank is ‘small’ in no measure, already creating new inroads in stroke research.

Describing this work, he explained, “A stroke is caused by a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood to the brain. In some instances, despite testing, the cause of a stroke cannot be determined. Such strokes are called ‘cryptogenic’ strokes. Occurring 30 to 40 percent of the time, these strokes result in significant mobility and morbidity issues. My scientific curiosity suggested to me that we should study the clots retrieved from stroke patients, to find answers. When I presented this work at an international conference at Oslo, the feedback was phenomenal.”

12 OCTOBER 2022

A revolutionary treatment for stroke, launched in 2017, helped Dr Bhaskar find a way to ‘harvest’ blood clots.

The technique, called endovascular thrombectomy, involves inserting a catheter into the brain and removing the thrombus (blood clot) that’s causing the stroke. It has remarkable outcomes for patients, restoring blood flow within minutes. It must however be performed in a time-critical window, usually within six to eight hours of the onset of a stroke. (Community education has

been widespread in recent years that time is critical in the treatment of stroke).

Biobanks are not uncommon in cancer research, Dr Bhaskar said; tumours removed from patients have been stored for decades. The NSW Brain Clot Bank though, is the first of its kind in the world. A second has just been launched in Liverpool, UK. These banks, Dr Bhaskar is convinced, must have open access, as global testing is critical. “That’s how scientists and medical professionals work, not in silos. Medicine doesn’t differentiate.”

It is an attitude that underscores much of his work. Currently he is part of a number of global health initiatives, such as leading the international consortium Pandemic Health System REsilience PROGRAM (REPROGRAM), formed to champion policy development and advocacy for global pandemic preparedness.

“Experts from 25 countries are involved here to provide evidence-based guidelines for COVID, particularly long COVID, because we need different population perspectives on what the physiological drivers are. It’s going to be an important global health challenge in the future.”

He is also Chair/Co-Manager of the Berlin-based Global Health & Migration

On the link between COVID and stroke: An expert clarifies n “This is an interesting hypothesis emerging, yes. COVID hijacks the immune

system and possibly also triggers pathways linked to other pathophysiological hypotheses. There is, however, no data set to prove this. We need longitudinal studies, and with heterogenous populations involved. What is certain, however, is that COVID disproportionately affects those of vulnerable backgrounds, through their increased cardiovascular burdens. We’ve always known that outcomes after cancer and stroke are mediated by a postcode.

We need to be mindful of social determinants in COVID as well. That will inform health planning for the future.”

Hub Community, which guides evidencebased policy for migration in Europe, particularly in regard to mental health.

‘Global’ seems to be a term that defines his thinking, suggesting a transnational approach to understanding key issues in health and disease.

“I think we all need to be global citizens, cut out geographical barriers, and think about ourselves as humans first. The work I do as a medical professional, as a scientist, as a humanitarian – is all about community, and community is secular. The idea of diversity describes my ethics.”

Dr Bhaskar came here ten years ago and worked in Newcastle before moving to Sydney. Growing up in a middle-class family with limited resources, he loved participating in science Olympiads and competitions, and won scholarships to study in Spain, Netherlands, and Germany. “I was relentless in the pursuit of science – not only because it would help me raise my quality of life but also directly help people’s lives. My parents taught me that the joy of who we are comes from the difference we can make in people’s lives. And that has remined critical in the work I do.”

His gentle manner of speech and thoughtful conduct seem to give that away, even though they hide the “fire in the belly” that he claims drives him.

“No matter what your background, you can make a difference, as long as you have fire in your belly,” he advised. “The Asian Australian story is emerging in this country, whereas in the US it has matured.

The story there with the Indian-origin business leaders, is that they never let early discrimination drag them down. As Indians we are grateful for opportunities; we are keen to make a difference, and passionate about giving back. That spirit itself will make you a leader.”

www.indianlink.com.au

Kaju katli

Gulab jamun

1 cup natural cashews 200g caster sugar ⅓ tsp ground cardamom ⅓ cup milk Few drops rosewater (see Tips) 1 tsp ghee 8 sheets edible silver leaf

2 cups full-cream milk powder ⅓ cup plain flour ½ tsp baking powder 1 cup pure cream 2 cups white sugar 3 cardamom pods Few saffron threads 4 drops rosewater (see Tips) Ghee and vegetable oil, to deep-fry

PREP 20 mins COOK 35 mins MAKES 22

1 Using a food processor, process cashews and sugar, in batches, to a fine powder. Sieve into a bowl. Process again any larger pieces of cashew and add to bowl. Add cardamom and stir to combine.

2 Place cashew mixture in a large non-stick frying pan with milk and rosewater. Cook, stirring, over medium-low heat for 35 minutes or until mixture comes away from side of pan. To test if the mixture is cooked, place ½ teaspoon on a cold plate and wait until safe to touch. Mixture is ready if you can roll it into a ball.

3 Place mixture in the centre of a silicone mat (see Tips). Knead it to smooth out the texture by rolling and folding the edges of the mat over the mixture and putting slight pressure as the mixture is very hot. Be careful as directly touching the mixture can burn your hands. A silicone mat between your palm and dough helps you to knead safely.

4 Flip a stainless steel tray over and spread ghee onto back of tray. Place hot mixture on back of tray, then cover with mat and roll out until 1cm-thick.

5 Decorate with edible silver leaf. Using a large knife and the picture as a guide, cut it into diamond shape sizes. Serve diamonds with any offcuts.

Tips Traditionally, the recipe is made using kewra water, but rosewater is an adequate substitute. If you don’t have a silicone mat, transfer hot mixture to a large sheet of baking paper. Stand for a few minutes as the mixture is very hot. When still hot but safe to touch quickly, knead the mixture using sides of baking paper to protect your hands.

PREP 20 mins + 4 hrs 15 mins standing COOK 30 mins MAKES 15

1 Sieve milk powder, flour and baking powder into a large bowl.

2 Gradually add cream, kneading until a soft dough forms. If cracks appear, continue kneading or add more cream until dough softens. Cover dough and stand for 15 minutes.

3 Place sugar, cardamom, saffron and 2 cups water in a large saucepan.

Cook, stirring, over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, without stirring, for 10 minutes or until sugar syrup thickens slightly (sugar syrup shouldn’t be very thick). Remove from heat and stir in rosewater.

4 Place enough ghee and oil, in equal parts, in a large wok or saucepan so it comes 5cm up side of pan. Heat over medium-low heat (use a big enough wok as gulab jamun will expand upon frying).

5 Divide dough into 15 portions and roll each into a smooth ball (if there are cracks, the gulab jamun may crack further during frying).

6 Add balls to oil mixture. Using a spatula, keep rotating the oil mixture without touching the balls until balls rise to surface (see Tips). Increase to medium heat. Cook, stirring, for 15 minutes or until balls are golden brown. Remove balls with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper-towel lined tray. Add balls to hot syrup. Cover and stand for 4 hours. Serve.

Tips Traditionally, the recipe is made using kewra water, but rosewater is an adequate substitute.

The temperature of the oil mixture is medium-low to start with and this is the most tricky part of the recipe because at this temperature all gulab jamun settle down at the bottom of the wok/saucepan. The rotating technique with a spatula is used to constantly agitate oil in a circular motion without touching the gulab jamun, and once they rise to surface within 1 minute, then increase the heat.

We have everything you need to celebrate Diwali this year. Visit woolworths.com.au/diwali for participating stores and products.

OCTOBER 2022 13

ACCOLADES Pic: Gurmeet Kalsi

Engineer, consultant & filmmaker Sydney’s Jay Sharma, a mechanical engineer-turned business consultant, is on the 40 Under 40 Asian Australians list by RITAM MITRA

J

ayant Sharma’s career, and his journey to recognition as one of the 40 Under 40 most influential Asian Australians, has been one of humility and passion. An engineer-turned consultant – and recently, also a filmmaker – ‘Jay’ sees the award not only as an honour, but the bestowal of a responsibility to recognise those who have come before him, and to give back to the community at large.

Jay’s career began early – even while earning his Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from the Faculty of Management Services at the University of Delhi, Jay was working in the engineering sector – first with Maruti, and then in a pivotal role with Tata Motors, on the Tata Nano dream project building the world’s cheapest car for India’s common man.

“The exposure [on the Tato Nano project] set me up – it helped me to understand the possibility to go big, think big, and innovate big,” says Jay. After earning his MBA, Jay spent over a decade working in Accenture’s consulting business, gaining experience across several industry sectors, including in New Delhi, Johannesburg and finally in Sydney.

“While I was at Accenture, that was when India was becoming a global powerhouse of talent,” recalls Jay. “Before that, you would typically see Indian businesses with foreign consultants. [Accenture] was the first time I saw the collection of this group of global talent innovation, where we went and serviced clients across the world using talent in India.”

Now a partner at EY – having spent a five-year stint as a partner at InfoSys - Jay acknowledges that the 40 Under 40 award is a moment of broad reflection. “I’m not the one for awards and credentials. When I received the award, my honest response was, ‘This is just another spin-off piece of PR’,” laughs Jay. “But when I was sitting

there and they called out my name and people congratulated me, I realised it's time to sit and reflect on the hard work - not by me, but by the previous generations who helped get me here.”

He went on, “My grandfather was a farmer who moved to the city with his siblings and his 5 children, staying in a small room. Now, all the way from there to me being an influential Australian, across a timeline of 50 years – it’s a massive journey for my family. But I also have a responsibility for my community, especially after seeing the under-representation of Indians in the room [at the awards night].

India will always be an area of passion for me. This pushes me to give back more to my motherland.”

Jay is acutely aware that Indians are under-represented in partnerships and C-suites across Australia.

“It’s a problem that I’ve well and truly understood and experienced throughout my career,” acknowledges Jay. He hopes that over time, as more generations of Indians grow up in Australia, and social cohesion improves, representation will improve.

“In some ways, it’s the same problem as when kids change schools,” says Jay. “It takes them a year to settle down. But when migrants move to a new country, it can take a generation to settle down.”

It’s a challenge that Jay is also addressing in his own unique way. A keen entrepreneur, Jay was involved in securing VC funding for a number of businesses in the early 2000s – and nowadays, Jay is also passionate about filmmaking, and enjoys writing and directing films. Through his company 24Six Films, Jay tells stories about issues impacting Indians, including on anti-racism and bridging generational and cultural gaps. Jay hopes it’s a venture he can use to help bring the Australian and Indian film industries closer together.

Jay has two simple pieces of advice for young professionals: one, to find an area of passion and to stick with it, and two, to never compromise your personal life for work.

“It's time to sit and reflect on the hard work - not by me, but by the previous generations who helped get me here.”

14 OCTOBER 2022

www.indianlink.com.au

HAPPY

Diwali

May the millions of lamps of Diwali illuminate your life with happiness, joy, peace and health. Wish you and your family a very prosperous Diwali

Best Wishes from

Kaushaliya Vaghela MP MEMBER FOR WESTERN METROPOLITAN REGION Suite 3, 1-13 Watton Street, Werribee, VIC 3030 (03) 8742 3226

kaushaliyavaghela.com.au

kaushaliya.vaghela@parliament.vic.gov.au OCTOBER 2022 15

SWEET TOOTH DIWALI

by RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

I

of our best restaurant desserts

t’s well and truly a post-pandemic Diwali, folks, and while we’ll still be cautious, we’re not going to hold back. As our restaurants return to normalcy, staff shortages notwithstanding, they’ve opened their doors wide to welcome us back in. Come on, admit it, you’ve missed them!

And since it’s Diwali, and the desire is up for the sweet things in life, here’s our list of the top nine Indian desserts in Sydney and Melbourne restaurants.

Chalo mouh meetha karen! Feel free to add to this list, and include a story behind the dessert of your dreams – whether traditional or a modern interpretation, satisfying in its simplicity or dripping with decadence and desire! Feel free to add to this list and include a story behind the dessert of your dreams from your favourite Indian restaurant – whether traditional or a modern interpretation, satisfying in its simplicity, or dripping with decadence and desire!

Kulfi Daughter in Law “Tastes like chai,” non-Indian diners have said to Jessi Singh, chef and owner at Daughter In Law, after their first bite of his kulfi.

“I know it’s actually the cardamom and cinnamon they’re referring to,” Jessi laughs, “but I find myself calling my kulfi ‘chai kulfi’ now!”

Kulfi is a perfect palate cleanser, says Jessi, especially after a spice-heavy meal. His version is fully home-made, cooked in the traditional way he learned in his native Punjab.

Full cream milk sits simmering for 8-10 hours, with cloves and pistachios going in as well as the other ‘chai flavours’ his diners readily identify.

An interesting addition though, is honey, locally sourced from Mornington. “It’s an amazing binder, with just the right amount of sweetness,” Jessi reveals.

When it all boils down, it goes into kulfi moulds, the most authentic you’ve ever seen, and then into the deep freeze to set. At the restaurant, it is served in its mould, decanted on the table.

Just like grandma made it.

DAUGHTER IN LAW 37 Little Bourke St, Melbourne, VIC, 3000

Gronut Urban Tadka

No list of Indian desserts is complete without the iconic gulab jamun, perhaps the best known of Indian sweets.

This one at Urban Tadka is not exactly traditional, but it is so spectacular that you simply have to try it.

Is this really a gulab jamun? Or is it a fancy donut?

“It’s a gronut – a gulab jamun shaped like a donut,” co-owner Inder Dua explains. “We serve it hot with cookies and cream ice cream, topped with Persian fairy floss and chopped pistachios.”

He goes on, “We’re always finding new ways to present traditional favourites. We don’t want to transform flavour, just tweak presentation.”

The gronut does wonders for the gulab jamun, actually. “Cooking gulab jamun balls in large quantities, we’ve found the centres can remain hard.

Changing the balls to a donut shape, the heat travels uniformly throughout, and the end result is fluffier and easier on the palate.”

Of course this meant they had to create a custom saancha (mould) to produce donuts of uniform shape and size. But the effort was well worth it. Just watch your waiter’s face light up when you say you’d like to try the gronut.

“People dine out for an experience,” Inder muses.

“We’re happy to provide one.”

URBAN TADKA 321 Mona Vale Rd Terrey Hills NSW

16 OCTOBER 2022

www.indianlink.com.au

Chidiya Ka Ghosla Atta The Chidiya Ka Ghosla (literally ‘bird’s nest’) at Atta restaurant is wonderfully intriguing, in both flavour and texture. It comes in a white chocolate shell, with a delicate pistachio floss creating the nest illusion. Inside, you’ll find two varieties of kulfi - blueberry and cardamom - to represent ‘eggs’.

The chef at Atta Harry Dhanjal is responsible for creating this exotic dish (he chooses to call it a ‘composition’). Describing the different layers in it, he says, “The pistachio floss, which most people tuck in to first, melts in the mouth like air. Then there’s a symphony of flavours – the blueberry kulfi bringing in a hint of sourness, the cardamom kulfi a delicate richness, and the chocolate doing its own thing.”

Because, he concludes with a smile, “We want your dining experience with us to end on a high note.”

ATTA 159/161 Victoria Ave, Albert Park VIC

Phirni Enter via Laundry

Helly Raichuria is currently serving a phirni at her exclusive Enter Via Laundry that is going down particularly well with her guests. Phirni is an unusual rice pudding, thick and creamy, for which the rice is coarsely ground before it goes into the milk.

Helly’s version is a fruity phirni, the fruit here being blood orange. The pudding comes served in a ramekin, covered with a layer of thinly sliced blood orange, which is in season currently.

If you think that’s unusual for phirni, get a whiff of the saffron used. A luxurious dose of Iranian saffron, with its stronger aroma, elevates the dish to a celebratory level. Being deeper in colour, it goes well with the blood orange too.

Even more intriguingly, there’s a brittle finish to it all, which you tap with your spoon to break before diving in. Inside, you’ll find the texture is similar to crème caramel, only grainier. “There’s a technique to phirni that must be perfected,” Helly admits. “Every step has to be just right. It’s a difficult dish to make especially if you’re making it for 40-50 people.

But I’m quite pleased with the way it’s been received. It’s quite a festive dish.”

Perfect for Diwali season then – especially one that’s post pandemic.

ENTER VIA LAUNDRY entervialaundry.com.au

Tiramisu Gulab Jamun Ish Restaurant When opposites attract… magic can happen.

In this Italian-Indian marriage, the light and airy tiramisu comes together with the dense gulab jamun, and converts to finger-licking goodness.

Of course it’s only elements of tiramisu here, as owner-director Akshay Thiparani explains – which come in the form of the coffee mascarpone cream first.

“It’s made from scratch in-house, with high quality coffee beans locally sourced. We sit our pieces of gulab jamun in the mascarpone cream, throw in some chocolate-covered raisins, and then finish off with a drizzle of chocolate powder.”

It’s a recent addition on the menu, and its glass tumbler presentation is adding to the wow factor of it all. It’s Akshay’s favourite “pick me up”.

ISH RESTAURANT 199 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC

Shahi Tukda Manjits Wharf Shahi Tukda is a bread pudding of sorts, enhanced in Mughal fashion with evaporated milk instead of custard, and embellished with saffron and nuts. At Manjit’s, this traditional favourite is presented to you deconstructed. The prepared bread is brought out to you, with the chilled, sweet, luscious cream on the side.

Your waiter pours it over the bread as you watch.

“The idea is to balance the crispness with that meltin-your-mouth feel, and the warm-yet-cold play on the palate,” Chef Varun Gujral describes.

The end result, he says, is like a “big hug from your grandma on a cold rainy winter’s night.”

The concept came to him as he researched the food of the kings - preparations that have lost their meaning or have been forgotten. Funnily enough, the dish has found fans in modern-day royalty.

“I served it once to King Abdullah, Queen Rania and Prince Hussein of Jordan,” he reveals. “The Prince came back the following night and indulged.”

MANJITS WHARF 10/49 Lime Street Sydney NSW

OCTOBER 2022 17

SWEET TOOTH DIWALI Fresh Jalebi Jaipur Sweets It’s almost as if there’s spiritual blessing behind Jaipur Sweets’ iconic fresh jalebis. No wonder they’re such a big hit. Such a big hit in fact, that you can safely assume there’ll be a wait of 30-40 minutes before you get your fingers on that hot, sticky deliciousness. Such a big hit in fact, that the local commerce association says it has raised the business profile of the famous eat street considerably.

Jaipur Sweets launched in the area three years ago, after a successful CBD run. It wasn’t a smooth launch, and exhausted chef and owner Narinder Singh decided he would provide langar (free food service) once a week as a way of saying thanks.

Some 70 people turned up the first week. Today, 900-1000 free meals are served every Tuesday at lunch.

“Everyone is welcome,” Singh says. “This is my form of community service.”

The jalebis, served as dessert, went down like hot cakes, literally. People came back for more on other days of the week. They vanished so quickly that Singh had to start making them on the premises. Very soon he had to install an automated machine, then a second one; today, he’s sourcing two more to keep up with demand. Interestingly, there hasn’t been a price upgrade in three years, even though there’s been quality upgrade.

So what’s Jaipur’s secret?

“Only the purest ingredients,” Singh replies. “The best almond meal, the purest saffron, organic sugar, premium quality organic New Zealand ghee.”

And the spirit of seva (community service).

JAIPUR SWEETS 48 Marion St, Harris Park NSW

Classic Cassata Dessert Corner

Aam Ki Zulfi Nilgiri’s

If the term ‘cassata’ brings back childhood memories of ice cream treats, try the fare at Dessert Corner, a Melbourne food truck. While it lists some truly unique faloodas and rabris, owner-operators Deval and Yogi Patel reveal it is the Classic Cassata that’s the biggest seller. “We’ve never had a customer who hasn’t fallen in love with our Classic Cassata,” they laugh.

Perhaps it’s the nostalgia of it all, or perhaps it’s the pure wholesomeness of it. No artificial flavours are used, “only fresh ingredients, from the ground up,” according to the Patels. Like all their preparations, this dish is egg-free, alcohol-free and gelatinfree. The layers here are vanilla, orange, tutti frutti, mango and pistachio ice creams, with cashew sprinkles on top. The ice creams themselves are dense, quite kulfi-like.

For more ice creams that taste like nostalgia, check out Thandai Ice Cream, Khoya Ice Cream, and the new item on the menu, South Indian Coffee Ice Cream, launched this month on World Coffee Day. Soon to come, Guava and Black Salt Ice Cream - that should take you back too!

Ajoy and Meera Joshi’s Nilgiris is well-known for its menu change every three months.

These days, they’re on a ‘trip back home’ with their food, going back to the original form of subcontinent cuisine one region at a time.

(The theme currently is ‘Undivided Bengal’).

“It’s all authentic fare,” Ajoy says. “No anglicised or fusion versions of Indian cuisine anymore. I’m loving retaining the original names of dishes too.”

At the moment, a dessert he’s offering is based on the mangoes from Eastern India. His Aam ki Zulfi (not kulfi, please note) is a kind of brulee, made with mangoes and almond meal but significantly, with no eggs. Sitting on top of it, is his version of aampapad (or fruit leather, made of mango pulp and then dried in the sun).

“I cook my aampapad to just before the sukhana (drying) stage, so that it retains its toffee-like texture.”

The top of this mango toffee is decorated with a mango gel or glaze, giving it all a glowing saffron colour. Go on, crack that shell, but with the gentlest of taps…

NILGIRI’S

DESSERT CORNER dessertcorner.com.au

3/283 Military Rd, Cremorne NSW

Mohanthal Chatkazz How often is it that a restaurant puts a dish on the menu because clients asked for it repeatedly? Well, Chatkazz at Harris Park says it listens to its regular customers. As a restaurant Chatkazz is known for its hugely diverse menu, but its distinct Gujarati cuisine and Mumbai-style street food truly stand out. And so, if you want a traditionally Gujarati dessert like Mohanthal, this is where you’ll find it.

“Yes it’s true – you probably won’t find this dessert on any other restaurant menu,” manager Hiren tells us. Mohanthal is a fudge made of chickpea flour or besan. It is prepared much like burfi, although it is grainier in texture, spread out in a plate (thal) to set and then cut into pieces.

At Chatkazz, a Mohanthal slice is heated in a pan to melt, and then poured into a bowl. It is served hot, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and nuts sprinkled on top. A spectacular winter dessert.

CHATKAZZ 4-6/14-20 Station St East, Harris Park, NSW

18 OCTOBER 2022

www.indianlink.com.au

OCTOBER 2022 19

Diwali art contest

7 years and below winner Aria Bansal (6)

runner-up Arya Goudar (5)

Aashvi Pal dutt (6)

Akshara Yeduru (5)

Saachi Mishra (5)

Shyra Goyal (5)

Elena Gupta (6)

Meenakshi Chathrangal Kolkadan (7)

Prisha Dabas (6)

Saivvi Parish (7)

20 NOVEMBER OCTOBER 2022 2021

www.indianlink.com.au

It’s been another fantastic year of entries from our littlest readers. This year, we tasked them with a somewhat unusual flower mandala - talk about flower power!

Our heartiest congratulations to Aria Bansal (Up to 7 Category) and Chinmay Vanarse (8-12 Category) who take home book vouchers valued at $75 each.

Congratulations also to Runners-up Arya Goudar (Up to 7 Category) and Kushagra Ahuja (8-12 Category). They’ve won book vouchers worth $50 each.

Keep your eyes peeled for our annual Diwali card, which will feature Chinmay Vanarse’s design for 2022.

Happy Diwali to all the little ones who participated – keep colouring!

8 - 12 years winner Chinmay Vanarse (9)

runner-up Kushagra Ahuja (8)

Aarav Deep Bansal (8)

Anit Maity (9)

Anuradha Archer Sharma (11)

Poorvi pandey(9)

Rytham Singla (12)

Saanvi Chaudhary (10)

Sai Sravan Shailesh (12)

Vedankita Kuhaluri (8) NOVEMBER OCTOBER 2022 2021 21

KIDS DIWALI

Chinmay Vanarse

Aria Bansal

Bouquets and blooms Indian Link’s Diwali Art Contest for kids was all about spring flowers this year by RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

9

-year-old Chinmay Vanarse of Jordan Springs NSW is usually making his own Diwali cards at this time of year, with his older sister. It is an annual family tradition. This year, he might want to stop doing that – he’s getting a bundle of professionally designed cards to give away. With his artwork on it.

Chinmay has won Indian Link’s Diwali Art Contest for Kids this year in his age category (8 – 12), colouring in a specified mandala.

Six-year-old Aria Bansal of Kellyville Ridge NSW won in her category, 7 years and below.

Arya Goudar, 5, of Blacktown NSW and Kushagra Ahuja 8, of Toongabbie NSW, have been announced as runners-up in their age groups.

Aria and Chinmay take home book vouchers valued at $75 each, and Arya and Kushagra receive $50 vouchers each.

Chinmay’s submission is marked with a gentleness of colour and technique that gives it all a breezy lightness. It’s spring, it seems to be exclaiming, and is perfect for the season in which we are lucky as Australians to be celebrating Diwali.

With its carefully picked colours and neatness in execution, it uplifts and calms, and as such, has a mandala-like quality.

“I did discuss with my sister possible colour combinations,” he admitted to Indian Link.

The young artist, a Year 4 student at Jordan Springs Public School, has been drawing and painting for as long as he can remember, under the supervision of his mum and older sister.

“These days I learn from YouTube, but I have been going to art classes,” he revealed. “Right now I’m doing portraits with textas.

I am drawing characters from Naruto, a Japanese manga series I am reading.”

Aria Bansal’s work with its exuberance of colour and beautiful shading defies her tender age.

“I did it all by myself,” the winner in the younger kids’ category declared. “Then I showed it to Mum and she said, amazing, beautiful!”

The Year 1 student at Kellyville Ridge Public School makes art frequently. “I like to draw Pokemon and then take photos of my drawing,” she revealed, adding, “but if

you like flowers I can colour in some more for you.”

The eleventh iteration of Indian Link’s Diwali Art Contest saw 128 submissions

from across the country. Numbers this year did not match the record entries last year, which were high due to lockdown conditions.

However, the mandalas this time round are particularly pleasing. The floral theme provided much scope for colour and the kids seem to have grabbed the opportunity.

The finished mandalas resembled floral

arrangements viewed from above - or Onam flower carpets - as our office desks disappeared under them.

We thank the kids for the beautiful ‘bouquets’ that appeared in our post box through the course of this competition.

Meanwhile, both Chinmaya and Aria are looking forward to celebrating Diwali shortly.

“What do I like about Diwali? I like the sweets we get to eat, and the sparklers, and people coming over to our house,” Chinmay said.

Aria said, “I will light the candles and lanterns with Mum and then eat some sweets.”

The colouring-in activity is aimed at the youngest members of our community to include them in the spirit of Diwali in a manner that resonates with them.

Perhaps this year they also learned to slow down and smell the flowers as they filled their mandalas in with colour.

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My salutations to the light of this lamp, which brings auspiciousness, health and prosperity, and which destroys inimical feelings.

Image: Divyakant Solanki, Mumbai

24 OCTOBER 2022

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OCTOBER 2022 25

OPINION

Shantaram – the Black white man’s burden

T

SUNIL BADAMI on the Orientalist, white saviour stereotypes that abound in Gregory David Roberts’ Shantaram, now adapted for TV

here are only two things you’re likely to encounter in India as much as Delhi belly: ubiquitous copies of Gregory David Roberts’ best-selling 2003 novel Shantaram in hostel lobbies and Swiss bakeries and, as noted in the book, constantly “being stared at with the […] almost accusatory censure of those who’ve convinced themselves they’ve found the one true path”.

Based on Roberts’ own life, Shantaram tells the story of Lin, an armed robber on the run with a false passport. Lin ends up in a Bombay slum and is adopted “like a son” by a mystic Afghan mafia boss before becoming a gun runner to Africa and a mujahedeen (guerrilla fighter) in Afghanistan.

Having sold over six million copies since publication, there have been numerous attempts to adapt the book for film. It’s now a TV series made for streaming service Apple TV+ starring British actor Charlie Hunnam.

Production was stop-start due to COVID, but after a long wait the series will premiere on October 14.

Like Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat Pray Love or Liam Pieper’s recent Sweetness and Light, featuring similarly troubled spiritual tourists, the “natives” exist in the background or through the tour bus windows, India and its people merely a set and props for Lin’s journey to enlightenment.

On the bus from the airport, Lin sees only what he wants to see, prefiguring other “poverty porn” like the execrable Slumdog Millionaire: What had seemed unimaginably strange and remote […] suddenly became […] comprehensible and fascinating […] the flare of shame I’d felt when I first saw the

Beautiful Forevers.

Shantaram, however, is burdened by selfindulgent writing, cluttered with unrealistic, extraneous, often forgettable characters, strangled by meandering digressions, and addled with expository dialogue and perplexingly obvious aphorisms on the nature of life, or love, or – of course – India itself.

“This is not like any other place,” Roberts writes. “This is India.”

As reviewer Cameron Woodhead wrote of its sequel, The Mountain Shadow: [It has] more in common with Oprah than Proust, and most readers with a shred

slums and street beggars dissolved in the understanding that they were free […] the city was free. I loved it.

of intellect or self-respect […] will cringe at [how] large chunks […] resemble the snake oil of the self-help industry.

According to Roberts, in the decade between Shantaram and its sequel, he “offered [his] writer’s perspective and writer’s skills to several NGOs, and worked in human rights, social justice, the environment and health issues.”

After The Mountain Shadow achieved neither the commercial success or critical acclaim of its predecessor, Roberts stepped back from public life, and embarked on what he calls “the spiritual path,” shaving his head, applying Hindu spiritual markings, foregoing shoes and donning Indian hermetic robes.

Making notes on his guru’s teachings, Roberts wrote an eponymous book, The Spiritual Path, featuring florid, codphilosophical epigrams similar to those that choked his novels, such as “honesty is the river flowing into the sea of Trust” or “success is the full expression of personal fulfilment”.

He recorded a reggae album, Love &

The cult of authenticity

Roberts’ semi-autobiographical character Lin calls himself “gora chierra, kala maan”: white on the outside, but full Hindustani on the inside. Despite this, Shantaram perpetuates the Orientalist fantasies that much of Western art does when depicting India and Indians.

The “Indies” have long exerted a powerful pull over the Western imagination. Operas and ballets such as Lakmé, La Bayadere, The Pearl Fishers and others portrayed Indian stories and people as exotic curiosities in stereotypical, Orientalist spectacles.

These productions served to excite both fascination and revulsion – as did Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom or The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel decades later.

Shantaram raises important questions about what author Vikram Chandra called the “cult of authenticity” in which too often, representations of India are artefacts of heightened or caricatured “Indianness” – designed to appeal to Western audiences.

It’s what I’ve called in the past the “mango novel”: increasingly familiar mirages of magical-realist wonders and colourful terrors in places at once enticingly and reassuringly distant (think of David Davidar’s novel The House of Blue Mangoes or Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things, set in a mango pickle factory.)

The Indians in Shantaram don’t vary much from the stereotypes, constantly needing Lin’s help and “revealing” the true nature of India through their simplicity, generosity and poverty.

26 OCTOBER 2022

Quality not quantity

Defenders of white privilege aside, many authors and audiences are questioning telling other people’s stories, even as literature allows us to empathetically imagine another person’s experience. As Salman Rushdie pointed out in his seminal essay, Imaginary Homelands, Literature is self-validating […] a book is not justified by its author’s worthiness to write it, but by the quality of what has been done. There are terrible books that arise directly out of experience, and extraordinary imaginative feats dealing with themes which the author has been obliged to approach from the outside.

Ontological questions about whether it’s fact or fiction, or who wrote it or where they’re from, shouldn’t matter as long as the writing’s good, such as in American author Katherine Boo’s profoundly affecting 2012 account of Mumbai’s slums, Behind The

Faith in Jamaica (featuring collaborations with Jamaican artists), released in December 2020, and has increased his focus on music since. A plethora of releases with titles such as Good Morning Morning and Deep Sur Render (music to play while your project is rendering); a playlist called Shantaram House, and featured artists on his website including Scantana, “the man with the most grammar”, suggest literature’s loss is music’s loss too.

Fixing the novel

Great literary fiction is often unfilmable because the kinetic range of the camera can’t capture the affective tone of the narrator’s voice or the author’s use of language.

But in Shantaram’s case, it’s possible being transposed to the screen and focusing on the action, rather than the cod-philosophy and over-description, might actually address the inherent vices in Roberts’ book.

As Indian reviewer Sandipan Deb wrote of The Mountain Shadow, skim the pages rapidly, and you will get a fine thriller… Read it sincerely, and you will find a man trying so hard to be, if not the Buddha, at least a rock ‘n’ roll Jesus figure, that it is irritating. Open the book randomly, and you will find a Paulo Coelho with a snub-nosed automatic …

The new TV series is co-created, written and executive produced by showrunner Steve Lightfoot, with Bharat Nalluri directing and executive producing. Two initial episodes directed by Australian Justin Kurzel (Snowtown, Nitram) were reportedly considered too dark.

One hopes it will interrogate and subvert those persistent Orientalist, white saviour tropes, although with a trailer focusing on the white characters, who enjoy moody close ups as faceless Indians swarm in the slummy background, and with dialogue that’s as forced and wooden as the book – including Hunnam’s unconvincing Australian accent – it doesn’t promise any great improvement.

For as Deb writes, a jailbird troubled by B-grade questions about life and the universe found India — in a very limited sense — in south and central Bombay.

Then he found spirituality, with two knives hidden up the back of his shirt. And then he asks: What do you want from me, India? Mr Roberts, India doesn’t want anything from you. Write books, make money, get stoned, babble about nirvana, love the debauched expat life. India accepts you. We are not one, but we are us.

First published in The Conversation

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OCTOBER 2022 27

RECOUNT

Sunil and Nitin, ‘drivers’; Rasik, ‘conductor’

When a ‘Mumbai bus’ plied between Sydney & Melbourne SUNIL RANADIVE shares his experience of an unusual bus trip

L

et me tell you about a bus trip I made to Melbourne way back in 2016 to attend the Marathi Sammelan.

For long, I wanted to arrange a bus trip. So when Melbourne announced the Sammelan, on the spur-of-the-moment, I grabbed the opportunity. Why, you ask? Well, um, you see… I had decided to act as driver!

It was no easy task, mind you. But if the task is easy, what’s the fun in organising it?

My first step was enlisting a second driver to join me on the 10-hour trip to Melbourne.

Much to my relief, a friend Nitin Samudra who worked for Sydney Buses, came to the rescue.

Next, and perhaps more importantly, I had to procure a bus driver’s license. My closest encounter with heavy vehicles before this had been occasionally driving a friend’s Leyland truck back in India many years ago.

After researching online about rules and requirements to drive a bus in Australia, I decided to get a Medium Rigid (MR) license. This would allow me to drive a bus with up to 45 passengers, but I would have to do my test on a truck.

With the holidays just around the corner then, I decided I would get this license after returning from our annual pilgrimage to India.

As I brought up the idea of the bus trip at a get-together with friends, my mate Rasik Kulkarni declared he would be the “conductor” on the trip. Suddenly, I had a full team!

We decided to take the plan a step further by dressing up like Indian state transport (ST) bus drivers and conductors, complete with khaki pants, shirts and badges.

Upon arriving in India, I made tons of inquiries on where to get the ST badges for my drivers and conductors with seemingly no luck, until one person mentioned a shop in Pune’s Paanghanti.

After visiting shop after shop to find these precious ST badges, I eventually found one 28 OCTOBER 2022

Custom designed staff badges…

… and number plate

Bus yatris

store that did have them on offer, but, the shopkeeper refused to sell them, saying it was unethical to sell to an unauthorised person.

We went back and forth for about two hours till he eventually demanded, “What do you need the badges for anyway?”

“Oh, for a drama in Australia!” I replied.

That did the trick. His tough exterior softened, and he began to show signs of friendliness. After checking my Australian driving license as proof of identity, and even making me sign a piece of paper promising we wouldn’t use them in India, he gave me the badges, engraved numbers and all.

After this, our next hurdle was buying some ST bus tickets for my conductor. I approached a bus stand, feeling particularly optimistic, only to realise that the Indian public transport from my youth had changed drastically. The bus conductor now carries an electronic machine! (Adding insult to injury, the young conductor I spoke to didn’t

even know what a bus ticket looked like.)

Thankfully, my wife Manjusha had preserved an old ticket and I made photocopies of it.

Later, while walking down the street one day, she asked me, “Why don’t you get a special number plate?”

It was an excellent idea. We decided to get a plate made for display on the dashboard of the bus. The decision of what to write on the plate was easy – QH for Quakers Hill (our suburb), and 2763 for its post code.

Equipped with uniforms for my crew, the badges, and number plate for my bus, I returned to Australia and booked myself in for driver knowledge test at a local RTA. I passed.

Next, my MR license. The first thing the instructor told me was that he wouldn’t teach me how to drive. You can imagine, I was confused, but I figured, ‘Fair enough.’

He quickly showed me different types of knots and tied the load. Then he undid all that

he had done and threw the rope in the air.

“Go get the rope and tie the load nice and tight with all the knots I just taught you,” he barked at me.

That’s when I realised that the quick demonstration earlier was the ‘teaching’ part. I followed his instructions, gathering the rope while I wracked my brain to remember the knots.

This was only the beginning. All day he grilled me in the hot January sun, but it was certainly a day well spent. I passed this hurdle too!

There was now nothing standing in the way of this much-anticipated bus trip. I began to look for a self-drive bus on hire, only to find that all the for-hire companies had only 25-seater buses on hire. Grudgingly, I had to accept a limit on the number of passengers on the ride.

We began collecting expressions of interest from would-be passengers and received a good response. It certainly appeared the bus was going to be packed… so packed, in fact, that there might not be space for baggage!

Pre-emptively, we finalised a bus for hire with a baggage trailer.

On the day, the car park of a local reserve in Quakers Hill became our ST stand. A crowd of passengers gathered while my friend Nitin and I went to fetch the bus.

When we returned with the bus and baggage trailer, a raucous welcome awaited us.

Some enthusiastic participants even mimicked newspaper vendors and peanut vendors, reminiscent of actual Indian bus stands.

All that was left was for our conductor Rasik to make the announcement that the bus had arrived on the platform, and to mimic issuing bus tickets.

Nitin took the honours at the wheel while I took the co-driver’s seat. Rasik whistled twice, signalling our departure. There was a loud uproar of “Ganapati Bappa Morya”, and off we went!

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ENTERPRENEUR

“Other people mediate,

I make ghee.”

How a ghee novice turned into a ghee connoisseur by RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

“G

hee is my dharma,” Lisa Ormenyessy says.

“I didn’t choose it; it chose me. It grounds me –

like a big hug.”

That ghee (clarified butter) has been a life changer for Lisa, founder of OM Ghee, comes through loud and clear.

It wasn’t always the case, though.

She admits that the first time she tried the gooey golden milk product that an entire culture considers a superfood, she screwed up her nose and went, ‘Ewwww’.

She’s learnt since then that it’s all about how the ghee is produced.

And so the ghee Lisa Ormenyessy makes is described as ‘premium, handmade, organic and biodynamic.’

The Adelaide-based Lisa was introduced to ghee by an Ayurvedic practitioner. She learnt to make it at home, as a way of reducing her excessive vata by including high-quality oils in her diet. (She had been handed down an autoimmune disorder diagnosis, Hashimoto’s disease.)

“My job as a business coach consultant was stressful,” Lisa recalls. “And yet, I’d stand in front of a pot making ghee, and it would become a pause for me… I became present with the butter. Other people mediate, I make ghee!”

She used it as a butter substitute - on toast, with vegemite, in baking, and to cook eggs, veggies, roast potatoes, even steak and schnitzels (“I find ghee doesn’t soak up the crumbs as much as butter or oil”), and of 30 OCTOBER 2022

course, in her bulletproof coffee.

Lisa lists the health benefits for us here: n Ghee is lactose-free: The milk solids that are removed in the cooking process include casein and lactose, two common allergens. n Ghee helps lower cholesterol: It contains high concentrations of monounsaturated Omega-3s. n Ghee reduces inflammation: With its antiinflammatory properties, ghee has been used to treat burns and swelling. The fatty acid butyrate is linked to immune system response for inflammation management. n Ghee helps gut maintenance: It contains butyric acid, which helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining. n Ghee boosts immunity: It contains high concentrations of monounsaturated Omega-3s and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. n Ghee helps increasing the bio-availability of foods: It helps drive nutrients directly into the system With the added benefits of a high smoking point, and a longer shelf life, Lisa concludes that ghee is ‘the better butter’.

“I began to evangelise it to my friends, and then it sort of became an obsession,” she recounts. “I’d stand in front of the butter aisle in the supermarket, look at various brands and study ingredients, and wonder, how will these respond to heat? I wanted to buy them all!”

Was there much market research before she decided to launch it all as an enterprise?

“My head said I was crazy, but my heart wanted to do it. I just wanted to cook ghee. I did my numbers on the back of an envelope and figured I could make a living out of it.”

Putting a 20-year corporate career behind her, a ghee novice became a ghee connoisseur.

OMGhee was born in Dec 2021.

The name is a dad joke, she reveals, laughing.

“My husband suggested it, and I liked it! It could mean excitement like ‘OMG’, but could also mean ‘Ohmmm’ ghee, like something sacred. I like to say the cook is sacred. The energy has to be just right – I’m a big believer in the energetics of it all.”

Part of said energetics also comes from raw ingredients, and from the cooking process: Lisa likes her ghee handmade, with carefully sourced 100% biodynamic, organic butter from grass-fed cows.

“Good butter will surrender. It relaxes and is willing to be transformed. Others will spit and fight the process. There’s an alchemy that goes on.”

The transformation is internal as well. Lisa writes in her blog: “In the unassuming space, standing over the stove, watching, listening, and smelling the glorious transformation of butter into ghee, I discovered my joy… Just like the butter surrenders itself to become precious, golden Ghee I want to remind you that in surrendering there is great magic and joy to be found.”

At OMGhee, Lisa takes 12-14 hours each time to make 300 jars, 275 ml each.

“I don’t stir, because the butter is good quality. But it is important to watch it – as soon as you turn your back, it froths up, like a two-year-old!”

You can purchase the jars online, but they are currently sold at farmers’ markets.

“An older Indian lady teared up when she said to me, your ghee is like the ghee my grandmother used to make. Then I started to cry, and we hugged!”

Introducing ghee to first-timers, Lisa serves it on a water cracker. (The most common reaction, she reveals, is that it tastes like shortbread.)

“I’m all about education too, and want to bring a greater appreciation of ghee. As a nation we don’t eat enough good fats.”

To Indian audience, Lisa advises, “Eat ghee where you can taste it – don’t, for example, cook your curry in it. Put it on your roti, on your dal, on rice. And importantly, learn to distinguish good ghee from regular ghee.”

The information in this article is not intended as medical or dietary advice

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OCTOBER 2022 31

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FIRST PERSON

LP and Jaya

Half a century

Australia was a little different when a young couple landed here in 1972 by LP AYER

I

n October this year, I will be reaching a new milestone – in fact, a third milestone, in the last five years. The first one was a few years ago when I turned 80. It was mostly a spiritual event. The next in 2020, was the golden jubilee of our wedding, a mix of spirits and spirituality.

The forthcoming milestone marks 50 years of residence in Australia. It promises to be ‘spirits-full’.

I have many interesting incidents to tell from our early days and would like share a few.

Unlike now when a plane-load of Indians arrives every week, we were just two of four Indians among a score of Asians on a Qantas flight from Singapore in October 1972.

Before we got on to the flight though, our immigration application had to pass through several hoops – a series of medical checkups all sent to Canberra for clearance, including palm-size chest x-rays. The whole process took nearly two years despite the

fact that my doctor wife had a job offer here, with her skill in short supply. Since the male partner’s employment potential was the deciding factor, my journalist qualifications and experience did not matter much, causing delay.

There were a few hurdles on the Indian side too, like Income Tax clearance to prove we were not skipping the country without paying our dues. No Mallya or Choksi to consult then. Another one was a Reserve Bank certificate for carrying with us two small silver lamps and cups, our wedding presents. And importantly, an application for foreign exchange; back then RBI regulations

allowed only US $ 7.50 each as emigrants.

And so both of us left well-paid jobs with India’s premier employer – Tatas – with US $15 in hand, and arrived in Melbourne with three dollars less. After a couple days’ stay in Singapore with a relative, we came to the airport for our flight. An Australian couple ahead of us at the check-in were short of funds for their airport tax – prevalent then – and I offered them in the fond hope of gaining some goodwill in our future homeland. I gave my Whyalla friend’s address for them to refund. Still waiting to hear from them, I’m wondering if there’s any chance of them reading this article!

Even worse was his comment to a fellow passenger: “Because of this bloke we are on this flight.” Unaware that ‘bloke’ is normal Australian lingo, I felt offended. Now it is part of my regular vocabulary, as a fair dinkum Aussie!

Our Qantas flight arrived quite late; we missed our connecting flight to Adelaide. That being the last plane to leave Tullamarine, it looked desolate. Somehow we managed to find there was a hotel (Travelodge, I reckon) opposite the airport and checked in. I lost another dollar by tipping the porter, unaware that this is a no-tipping zone.

Next morning too we would have missed our flight as we didn’t know the clock was put one hour ahead for daylight saving. We skipped breakfast and rushed to check out.

We were five dollars short of our room tariff.

I explained our situation and promised to send it upon reaching Whyalla. We were hugely relieved as we boarded the flight to Adelaide. If the Melbourne couple’s episode was a disappointing start to our life in a new land, that hotel staff’s trust was a soul lifter.

In the current zooming cost of living scenario, I am tempted to recall the prices of some essential items –milk 11 c a bottle, bread 12 c a loaf, a tankful of petrol $2.40, GP consultation $3.80 etc.

Average weekly wage was $70. My journalist salary at The Advertiser was $83 a week. A month after our arrival, we made a round trip to Sydney by coach taking 48 plus hours to buy Indian grocery from Eze Moses in Bondi, as there was none in Adelaide.

Every migrant has some help in their settlement, and we had our share. I fondly remember many kind souls that helped us establish ourselves, leading to where we are today. I would like to personally thank each one of them but have no idea where they are now. Some of them are no more.

Without seeming like a name-dropping exercise, I mention Don Winton, former editor of Whyalla News, a co-participant in a journalism course in the UK in 1967, and pivotal to our migration; Des Colquhon, editor of The Advertiser for giving my first job in the Business section; Peggy Oliver, Chief Librarian at Elizabeth, offering a position there; David Wormald, Manager of Munno Para Council, for picking me as Chief Librarian of their library where, in my 25 years, I had several proud achievements including a PR Award from the Australian Library Promotion Council; Peter Duncan, Attorney-General in the Don Dunstan government, ever ready to help; Pam O’Grady, who helped to find my feet in the library arena; Jagan and Maya Mazumdar for their moral support, and Rajni Luthra for rekindling my interest in writing and giving me space in the Indian Link for the past 12 years. I owe you all a great debt of gratitude.

Immigration paperwork: Income tax clearance, and ‘permission’ for Jaya to ‘travel with husband’

OCTOBER 2022 33

DESI GIRLS

Wax woes

Why young South Asians are rethinking body hair conversations by Iqra Saeed

A

few months ago, I walked to my local Chemist Warehouse in search of body hair bleach because I had woken up disgusted by the black hair visible on my arms. There was no specific reason for it, I thought, till I realised there were small moments that fit together like a puzzle.

Lining up for class in primary when a classmate made a joke about my ‘gorilla arms’. Jokes about not needing a jacket in the winter. A family joke that replaced the chant in the game ‘Buzz off hairy legs’ with my name.

Jumana Khan, a 22-year-old South Asian social media activist for women’s health and menstruation, first began to get comfortable with her body hair while in lockdown.

Now, she’s on a “liberating” journey of not removing it at all.

Growing up, she went to a private Catholic school where she was the only Indian student. In Years 5 and 6, she became conscious of the hair on her legs and face when she was teased for “having a moustache” and “more sideburns than the boys.”

“It was always at the back of my mind,” she admitted. “I’m a hairy person, it doesn’t matter if I remove it, there’s always going to be parts of my body that are hairy that aren’t meant to be.”

34 OCTOBER 2022

In a 2008 issue of Sex Roles, Flinders University psychologists Marika Tiggemann & Suzanna Hodgson noted that there had only been four surveys and two experimental studies investigating the removal of women’s body hair thus far. In their study, they found that the vast majority (almost 96%) of participants regularly removed their leg and underarm hair.

“These actions [body hair removal] have come to be accepted as every day and commonplace behaviours that form a ‘natural’ part of good grooming and go unquestioned,” the study observed.

Meanwhile, others like Claudia Sobral, a 20-year-old Italian and Portuguese student, notice a double standard between hair on dark skin and on light skin. While she chooses to shave for the feeling of smooth skin, and because she is impacted by social expectations for women, she understands that women of colour aren’t always offered the same luxury of choice.

“I think having light hair means I wouldn’t be as scrutinised if I didn’t shave,” she said. “I don’t feel pressured to remove my body hair, but maybe that’s also because my hair isn’t very dark. There’s a double standard here because someone that looks like me, with fair skin and light hair, can get away with not shaving.”

Often, it feels like women will be criticised regardless of their choice to keep or remove body hair. For Jumana, body hair has become “an act of rebellion” and a way to feel at home in her own body, especially when the proliferation of the Eurocentric male gaze idolises a standard “that someone

like her, a South Asian woman, is not going to look like at all.”

But importantly, as an intersectional feminist, she believes the power lies in having the freedom to make this choice for herself.

“There’s this toxicity in activism right now where it’s all about not fitting into groups if you’re not ‘activist enough’. If you shave, some feminists will say that that’s ‘unfeminist.’ I’m not about that,” she explained.

Within her own family, her Mum and sister have criticised her choice, but she acknowledges that it is “just a reflection of their own conditioning that they haven’t had the opportunity to unlearn or unravel for themselves.”

No doubt the topic of body hair will resonate with many South Asians, who have typically been told fair, hairless skin is the ideal. In Beyond The Pale: Skinderella Stories and Colourism in India, academic Annie Paul wrote about this issue, noting: “The ideal of light skin predates colonialism … it is driven by a combination of Western mass-mediated ideologies and traditional Asian cultural values.”

21-year-old Ruaimaa (Ru) Hasan still remembers the days they would bleach their facial hair to blend in with their darker skin.

“It’s an artificial way of making something look ‘normal’ and it wasn’t right. It’s not right of me to change the colour of my natural hair to make it blend or seem as if it’s not there,” they said.

As someone who identifies as non-binary, they explained that not removing body hair is interlinked to their gender identity

by actively challenging feminine beauty standards.

“I have heard every kind of negative comment you can hear about body hair and not being feminine, even though feminine beauty exists within every race with so many different physical features,” they said.

“I’m not trying to fit into femininity [and] get to have the best of both worlds and embrace who I naturally am, because I’m not forcing myself to be something that I don’t feel I am, which is a woman.”

Jumana acknowledges that she has been impacted by colourism from a young age because of the normalised conversations on skin colour in her community.

“I have a lot of feelings towards facial hair bleaching and the whole ‘complexion issue’ in South Asian culture. They’re so common and insidious in that they don’t hurt you until you catch yourself criticising your own skin colour,” she stated.

Unfortunately, when we are told that we aren’t seen as beautiful from both a Western and South Asian lens in our formative years, many young South Asians spend their lives figuring out how to feel attractive. Whether that be through bleaching, waxing, shaving, it can be a vicious cycle.

Moving forward, our best foot forward is to keep having these conversations about normalising body hair. Parents and other role models can begin to break the cycle of discomfort by speaking to their children early on about self-image and instilling a positive or even neutral view of body hair, and bodies in general.

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�वकलांग लोग और अ य अ�त�थ व ा ऑ े �लया म� सुलभ और समावेशी ान और ग�त�व�धय के बारे म� कहा�नयां, सलाह और संसाधन साझा करते ह�। People with disabilities, and other guest speakers, share stories, advice and resources about accessible and inclusive places and activities in Australia.

www.speakmylanguage.com.au

OCTOBER 2022 35

TRAVEL

Little Penguins, big races M

Extraordinary experiences – that’s what Victoria’s Phillip Island is all about

ost South Asians seeing Phillip Island’s famous Penguin Parade for the first time, have made this comment: “But these penguins are tiny!” Of course, they soon learn that these are Little Penguins, as opposed to the much larger Emperor Penguins native to Antarctica, whose images they are most accustomed to seeing.

As they marvel at the little creatures emerge from the ocean and waddle up to their burrows, they learn that these penguins are also called Little Penguins or Blue Penguins due to their colour; that they are the smallest of all penguin species, and that they are native to Australia and New Zealand.

The island’s most famous residents attract over a million visitors and admirers yearly to witness their spectacular return home at dusk.

The penguins may be a highlight at Phillip Island, but there’s plenty more to see and do here. Just under a two-hour drive (142 km) south from the centre of Melbourne, this island sanctuary is home to some unique native wildlife; the famous Grand Prix motorcycle circuit; wonderful beaches and fascinating walking tracks, and charming food-and-beverage experiences.

Native wildlife

Wildlife and photography enthusiasts will love that Phillip Island, all 101 sq km of it, is home to a range of native Australian species including koalas, wallabies, whales, echidnas, little penguins, Australian fur seals and more!

A popular attraction is the Australian fur seal colony, a protected marine mammal native to the area. Seal Rocks alone hosts 36 OCTOBER 2022

them between September and April, as they arrive from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska 8,000 kilometres away. At Phillip Island, you can watch them return home at sunset after a day of fishing!

The daily feeding of pelicans at San Remo at noon, is another fun - and raucous - activity.

Beaches

Framed by golden sands and cobalt blue waters, this paradise island is filled with sunbathing and surfing opportunities. For surfers or wannabe surfers, Smiths Beach is a great spot to learn, and patrolled by lifesavers during the summer months. Rock pools are exposed at low tide, and there is plenty of room for beach games. Cowes is a beautiful bay beach which offers shady spots and is patrolled by lifesavers in the summer months. Remember to swim between the flags at patrolled beaches. A trek up to the Cape Woolamai lookout is a must do, for a truly epic view.

20,000 seals, a quarter of the entire population of Australian fur seals. Spend a fun hour or so observing these inquisitive beauties in their natural environment as they sun bake, wrestle each other playfully, or use their flippers to drag themselves to the water.

October to December, you’ll catch mums feeding their babies.

At the Koala Conservation Reserve, you can photograph Australia’s most iconic animal as you walk along the boardwalks through the treetops.

In the winter months, Humpback and Southern Right Whales can be spotted as they migrate north to warmer waters.

Phillip Island also hosts an incredible array of birdlife. Swan Lake is home to

species such as black swans, Cape Barren Geese, ducks, swamp harriers, cormorants, black-fronted dotterels, Australian white ibis, spoonbills, white-faced herons, purple swamphens, and masked lapwings.

Nocturnal birds like bats and owls are also plentiful, as are birds of prey such as peregrine falcons, black-shouldered kites, swamp harriers, and nankeen kestrels.

Avid bird watchers can check out Twitcher Trail, or the renowned wetlands of the Rhyll Inlet for the wading birds that fly thousands of kilometres to feed here during the summer months.

Islanders are particularly fond of - and proud of - the migratory short-tailed shearwaters, or mutton birds. You can see

Grand Prix circuit

Racing enthusiasts are probably planning their trip to the island right about now, for the 2022 Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix this month, or the 2022 Superbike World Championship next month.

Phillip Island’s Grand Prix Circuit hosts some of the most exciting racing events, attracting worldwide participants as well as observers. The adrenaline-fueled action on the track - with racers touching the 300km/h mark - is matched perfectly with the dramatic coastline against which it occurs!

This spectacle of speed and action has been on since 1928 for both cars and motorcycles

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races, and so much more Travel Notebook Other attractions Magnificent rock formations at the Pinnacles Lookout; Jetboat tours; fishing; wineries and breweries; boat cruises, scenic flights; chocolate factory; cheese factory; artists and design studios, and mazes.

(when four public roads connected at right angle corners became the circuit).

Phillip Island Go Karts feature a 750m circuit replicating the famous Phillip Island Grand Prix track.

On the Island's stunning coastline, this unique Go Kart track sits alongside the circuit and overlooks Bass Strait while offering smooth curves and super-fast straights. Behind the wheel of these Go Karts, you'll feel what so many past and present motorsport champions have experienced.

But wait, there’s more!

If you like bushwalks/hiking, you’ll be

spoilt for choice on this beautiful island.

Pick from a range of awe-inspiring coastal walks and scenic bushwalks – including kid-friendly and dog-friendly options.

If you love stargazing, then Phillip Island is a must-visit. From spotting the Milky Way to the occasional Southern Lights, Phillip Island offers some fantastic vantage points to gaze into the night sky.

We’re guessing though, that it is the penguins that’ll provide the most spectacular Phillip Island experience.

Observe them from the boardwalks as they dash home across the sand at dusk, greeting neighbours, partners and their chicks.

Where to stay Choose from comfy budget options to beachside luxury, from caravan parks, farm stays and glamping, to B&Bs, apartments, hotels and motels.

For more information Visit www. visitphillipisland.com.au

OCTOBER 2022 37

Happy Festival of Lights

May your homes be filled with prosperity and happiness in the year ahead.

Explore HomeWorld display villages and see the latest in new home building.

If you haven’t visited HomeWorld before you many not realise all that it has to offer and why people love to visit.

HomeWorld display villages allow you to step inside more than 350 display homes and see for yourself what living in a brand new home would be like.

The range of designs on display is huge from single storey homes to large bespoke designs, granny flats and duplex.

You will also find 50 builders on site who can help answer your questions and take you through your options.

With 5 locations to choose from there is more to explore than ever before.

HomeWorld villages are open 7 days from 10am-5pm.

HomeWorld.com.au

homeworldaustralia

@homeworldaus

BOX HILL · MARSDEN PARK · NEW LEPPINGTON · NEW THORNTON · WARNERVALE

38 OCTOBER 2022

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IndianLink RADIO OCTOBER 2022 39

ENTERTAINMENT

cineTALK

Worth waiting for? You decide!

Indian films and series releasing in October CODE NAME: TIRANGA (in cinemas) Parineeti Chopra and Harrdy Sandhu have been paired together in this spy thriller with a patriotic pulse. On a mission that takes her through many countries and challenges, Parineeti, a RAW agent, finds herself fearlessly devoted to making sacrifices for her nation.

Release date: 14 October

COFFEE WITH KADHAL (in cinemas) The upcoming Tamil rom-com takes the classic family drama and adds a sweet spin with a multi-starrer cast. The movie follows four siblings on their journey in finding their life partner, but a love triangle thrown into the mix should make things interesting!

Release date: 7 October

RAM SETU (in cinemas) Akshay Kumar has proven he is not slowing down anytime soon with Ram Setu being his 5th release of the year! This action-adventure flick brings the ‘Indiana Jones vibes’ for the Indian audience as archaeologist Aryan Kulshrestha uncovers the mystery of the Ram Setu bridge referenced in the Ramayana.

Release date: 25 October

DOCTOR G (in cinemas) Ayushmann Khurrana promises to bring his best to this medical comedy that showcases his struggles as a male gynaecologist. Reminiscent of Khurrana’s debut in Vicky Donor, Rakul Preet Singh and Shefali Shah join him to bring comedy to some important conversations.

Release date: 14 October

GODFATHER (in cinemas) Telugu megastar Chiranjeevi brings you actions and thrills not to be missed. With superstar Salman Khan slated to make an appearance as well, this one looksset to be a blockbuster for the box office.

Release date: 5 October

MATRIMONIALS Seeking Grooms South Indian parents seeking Hindu groom of age 30-35, Australian citizen/PR. Work permit visa groom will be considered.

Australian citizen girl, age 30, working full time in Sydney. Contact Ashok with details on mobile 0409463819,email anthonyashok@yahoo.com (preferred).

Seeking a professionally qualified match, teetotaller, of good family background, preferably Australian citizen or PR holder, for highly qualified career-oriented Brahmin girl, 35, 5’2”, vegetarian, of good family background, working and well settled in Sydney.

Please contact aussyd08@gmail.com

40 OCTOBER 2022

Seeking professionally qualified match (working professional, not self employed) from Australia for ’88born 5"3" Hindu Punjabi girl (divorced, issueless), working with a government organisation in Sydney. Must have Aus PR and preference to Radha Soami follower, teetotaler.

Email: matrimonial.ml@gmail.com

Well-settled/professionally qualified match from good family background invited for Sydney-based never-married Punjabi Sikh girl, Australian citizen, highly qualified IT professional 49/5'6"; attractive, fair, jolly, good educated family background, brought up in India. Parents well settled. Contact with photo: ausgirl101@gmail.com

Seeking a professionally qualified settled match for Sydney based, never married Aus citizen, Hindu, Punjabi Khatri 49, 5'3" slim, fair, attractive girl. Girl is a postgraduate and is working on a good position in a government organisation.

Please contact at ausind26@gmail.com

Seeking a professionally qualified settled match for Sydney based, never married Aus citizen, Hindu, Punjabi Khatri 48, 6', athletic built man. He is a project manager with an engineering background and is working in a reputed organisation. Please contact ausind26@gmail.com

Seeking Brides

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MAJA MA (Prime Video) A treat for the OTT audience, Madhuri Dixit dazzles in this family drama that explores the trials and tribulations of motherhood and marriage.

Release date: 6 October

BABE BHANGRA PAUNDE NE (in cinemas)

GOODBYE (in cinemas) Family is the word in this heart-warming film starring the stellar ensemble of Amitabh Bachchan, Neena Gupta and Rashmika Mandanna as she debuts in Hindi cinema. Following a sudden family death, relationships are tested in this film that will surely leave you wanting a family hug.

Release date: 7 October

Guaranteed to bring the family together, Diljit Dosanjh unites young and old with this Punjabi comedy release. Adopting an elderly millionaire, the ‘get rich quick’ scheme he hopes for doesn’t go exactly as planned.

Release date: 5 October

SHANTARAM (Apple TV+) Based on the 2003 novel of the same name, the American drama series brings Mumbai to the OTT platform in style. Following a bank robber from Australia who flees to India, his journey doesn’t come without its challenges as he navigates being on the run in foreign territory.

Release date: 14 October

MISMATCHED: SEASON 2 (Netflix)

SARDAR (in cinemas)

The wait is finally over as Dimple and Rishi return in the second season of Mismatched! The highly anticipated release continues the narrative told by Sandhya Menon in her novel When Dimple Met Rishi with Rohit Saraf and Prajakta Kohli already shining in the first season of the adaptation.

Release date: 14 October

Cinema halls won’t be lacking in Indian action thrillers this October as Karthi stars in the Tamil film Sardar.

Expected to be seen in a dual role, Karthi headlines this cinematic story that promises spies, secrets, and star performances.

Release date: 21 October

THANK GOD (in cinemas) A fantasy-comedy that sees Sidharth Malhotra step away from his recent realm of action roles, Thank God is already receiving rave reviews for the early 2000s vibes audiences have missed! Ajay Devgn is seen as Chitragupt, a Hindu deity in the afterlife, as we follow Malhotra’s character walk through his weaknesses in the game of life.

Release date: 25 October

HASAN MINHAJ: THE KING’S JESTER (Netflix) Hasan Minhaj returns to Netflix with his second special on the streaming service, delving into the highs and lows of fame, fatherhood, and freedom of speech.

Release date: 4 October

HONEYMOON (in cinemas) Gippy Grewal and Jasmin Bhasin lead the cast in this romantic comedy that sees a newlywed couple hoping to go on their honeymoon. However, unaware of what the honeymoon entails, their family beg to tag along, leaving the lovebirds having to put a hold on their romance.

Release date: 25 October

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OCTOBER 2022 41

HAPPY

Diwali

May the Festival of Lights fill your home with happiness and joy.

Mayor Ned Mannoun

#lovelivo www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au

पैलिएलिव दे खभाि, जीवन को सीलित करने वािे रोग के साथ जी रहे िोगों को हो सके उतने लदन, लजतना संभव हो उतना अच्ी तरह से जीने िें सहायता करने के बारे िें है । पैलिएलिव दे खभाि लिसिे लिए होती है ? यह लकसी भी आयु वािे हर व्यक्ति (लि​िुओं से िेकर वृद्ों तक) के लिए होती है लजसे जीवन को सीलित करने वािा रोग होने की पुलटि हुई है । पैलिएलिव दे खभाि िें रोग के िक्षणों और रोग से जुड़ी सिस्ाओं की पहचान और लनदान लकया जाता है जो लक िारीररक, भावनात्मक, आध्ाक्त्मक या सािालजक हो सकते हैं ।

पैलिएलिव दे खभाि से सहायता िब लि​िती है ? कुछ िोगों के लिए, पैलिएलिव दे खभाि रोग का पता िगने के सिय से ही फायदे िंद हो सकती है। यह दे खभाि अन्य ईिाजों के साथ (उदाहरण के लिए केंसर के लिए लकए जाने वािे ईिाज जैसे लक सज्जरी, कीिोथैरेपी और रे लियेिन) या इन ईिाजों के ख़त्म हो जाने के बाद प्रदान की जा सकती है। कुछ िोग लकसी बीिारी के लवलभन्न चरणों िें पैलिएलिव दे खभाि चािू या बंद करते रहते हैं। िुरूआती सिय िें ही पैलिएलिव दे खभाि प्राप्त करना िुरु कर दे ने से, लकसी व्यक्ति की दे खभाि करने के लिए उस व्यक्ति की िान्यताओं, धारणाओं और उद्े श्ों को जानने और उनका सम्ान हो यह सुलनलचित करने िें सहायता लि​िती है। जब कोई व्यक्ति अपने जीवन के अंलति लदनों िें होता है तो पैलिएलिव दे खभाि केवि एक प्रदान की जाने वािे दे खभाि ही नहीं बक्कि उससे कहीं ज़्ादा होती है। यह जीवन को सीलित करने वािे रोग के साथ जी रहे िोगों के जीवन की गुणवत्ा और उन्हें हो सके उतने लदन, लजतना संभव हो उतना अच्ी तरह से जीने िें सहायता करने के बारे िें है।

www.morethanyouthink.org.au पर जाएँ या अपने स्ास्थ्य दे खभाि प्रोफेिनि से बात करें ।

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42 OCTOBER 2022

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FORETELL

October 2022

BY MINAL KHONA

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

aries

TAURUS

TAROT GEMINI

CANCER

March 21 - April 19

April 20 - May 20

May 21 - June 20

June 21 - July 20

Avoid taking on too much work as you could get over-burdened. Singles will have to choose between two romantic partners and the decision won’t be an easy one. Someone you considered an opponent could become a friend.

Business is good; some self-employed folks may be considering a new age kind of venture – go for it, you will make money. Take a second opinion for an ongoing health problem. Good news all around is on its way – in your love life, and finances.

The cardfor Virgo shows up, making the stubborn May born finicky too. A separation could occur if a relationship is already rocky. Professionals might be thinking of changing jobs, starting a business or even a new career path. Don’t neglect any recurring health problems. Careful who you lend money to as it may not come back. In a conflict, you may prefer to withdraw than confront. Stay calm and detached to reduce stress and allow the universe to guide you forward.

Balance in all matters important is the key for the May-June born. You will seek help from the universe for an ongoing problem. Shift your focus and see how your problems dissipate; you could have an intense spiritual interaction with your guru. Wanting to change career direction will bring the impetus needed to make the shift.

Confrontations may occur in matters of debts owed to you. Family is supportive through your ups and downs. Stressful situations will come to an end.

A busy month full of travel, meetings, property matters etc. What looked negative will turn out to be a blessing in disguise. Work is productive; if the selfemployed find business is slow, they will make profit through newer opportunities.

Some of you may feel stuck in a deadend relationship. Money comes in from debts paid, commissions etc. Singles will meet someone new; those involved could be considering breaking up. Any dilemma could have more than one option for you to choose from.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

July 21 - Aug 22

Aug 23 - Sep 22

Sep 23 - Oct 22

Oct 23 - Nov 21

Be extremely cautious in all your dealings– financial and emotional. Self-protection is key. Singles may elicit interest from admirers. A trip will come with its own hurdles. Much as you wish to, you will not be able to take a break from work.

Whatever the challenges you face, use your mind to overcome them; not a time to be emotional. Don’t take on more than you can handle. Money written off will be returned. A sudden boost in income is also indicated.

All blocked matters start sorting themselves out as delays come to an end.

Singles can expect interest in them or the start of an important relationship. Some of you may want to move home. Trips for work, fun or visiting parents are foretold.

Business will see an upswing for the selfemployed. A new venture or job could lead to increased incomes. Mentally too you will feel rejuvenated as a sluggish time ends. Be proactive in everything you wish to see prompt results.

You will seek an upgrade in all aspects of your life. Singles will be open to dating. A new business opportunity will come your way by chance. Work life is smooth overall. Those in a committed relationship may be wanting to take it to the next level. The self-employed may think of reviving an old business, which will be profitable, or even start a new one. Your past experiences will help you reap a harvest – as good karma or investments.

You will get divine help in manifesting your wishes. Don’t make impulsive decisions; but trust your intuition. Something you wanted will arrive earlier than you think.

Those in a relationship remain undecided about which way they want to go – commit or maintain status quo. Make use of a new age remedy for any health problems.

Be cautious in all your dealings or you could get cheated. Inner confidence will have you capable of dealing with challenges. Let go of a fear of failure.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

Pisces

Feb 19 - March 20

You will be able to surge past challenges and have a paradigm shift in your thoughts and attitudes. Some of you may get nostalgic about the past or your childhood. A new career opportunity or a bonus could come your way. Singles will stop pining for an ex and look forward to the future. More money than you expect will come your way. Meditate and surrender to a higher power. A chance to promote their business could come along for the self-employed.

An ex could come back into your life but you may not particularly want to reignite the relationship. Expect upheavals and if things have been on the downswing, they will improve. Expenses could rise this month. A setback at work could see you making an important if unexpected decision. Avoid binge eating due to emotional ups and downs. Be patient in money matters. A difficult situation will soon end. Divine help will guide you through changes; go with the flow.

October could bring high-intensity emotional matters to the fore concerning your love life, career, finances or health.

Those dating or looking to, will this time want a more meaningful relationship. A sudden call could lead to profits. A trip might get postponed. Work goes through ups and downsbut you will achieve your goals. Money delayed will be paid up soon. See a doctor if you have insomnia.

What you desire will materialise but maybe not the way you imagined it to.

A month that could be difficult due to disappointment and a separation from loved ones. Singles will hesitate to commit due to past heartbreaks. A new business idea may be offered but weigh the pros and cons first. Grief over a death or a betrayal will keep you down but not for long. Take a break to deal with stress. Investments will bring returns; and debts will be repaid. Any delays in important matters will be to your advantage.

Nov 22 - Dec 21

Dec 22 - Jan 19

OCTOBER 2022 43

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ASK AUNTYJI

Do you have a question for Auntyji?

Email it to info@indianlink.com.au

Dear Auntyji Oh my god, oh my god, Auntyji, you must help me. I have developed an obsession and I think it’s beginning to upset my family members.

I am 49 years old with two kids in their 20s. Auntyji, I was looking around on Netflix the other day but came upon YouTube and found the latest song from the film Thank God. This song is called Manike, and it’s picturised on that Nora Fatehi, and the most beautiful, most wondrous man that ever walked the earth, Sidharth Malhotra. Auntyji, that same afternoon I watched that song 20 times because I was fixated on the khoobsoorati of Sidharth. He is gorgeous in the video, and the way he moves and smiles and looks mysteriously into the distance makes my heart flitter and flutter like a teenager. Auntyji, I’m absolutely obsessed with Sidharth, and while I have not seen his other films, I have watched some songs with him in it and oh my god, he is an angel. Auntyji, I can’t stop watching this video - and last week, I burnt the dal because I was watching the video for the 16th time that day. My kids are worried about me. Auntyji help me, I have lost my heart to this charming heartthrob.

Suhayla Sharif

Bollywood dreams Auntyji says Arre, you lusty billi. So so many questions I have for you. Sharam nahi aati, kya? Kyon mouh kala kar rahi ho? Aren’t you a little bit on the other side of youthfulness to be titillating yourself with an unreachable Bollywood heartthrob? Don’t you have a job? Or a hobby? Or is your hobby being a dasi to a Bollywood god? You are taking this too far, you crazy aurat, if you are starting to burn the dal and your adult children are getting worried about you. Why are you causing them such pareshani in the youth of their lives? More importantly, what will you achieve by lusting after a Bollywood hero? It’s not like he is going to come live in Australia is he?

Having said all this, I will now say this.

Ok, I watched Manike. OMG. Sidharth is a super god. He is like the wondrous love child of two divine angels - those eyes, those cheekbones, that hair, that smile at 1.08mins and 1.27m and 1.35m…and that perplexed look at 2.24m. Oh, I too am besotted. What witchcraft is this?

Mukti do mujhe, mere daata. What jadoo have you done to me, you paapi dayan - hamara to jeena haram hogaaya. Ai haihai. Arre mere Sidharth, see you in my sapna, raat ko.

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OCTOBER 2022 45

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OCTOBER 2022 47

48 SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2022 2022

www.indianlink.com.au MELBOURNE EDITION