2023-11 Melbourne

All things Indian. In Australia.

MELBOURNE

NOVEMBER 2023

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NOVEMBER 2023 3

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EDITORIAL

The world at crisis point

All things Indian. In Australia.

PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra CONTRIBUTORS Torsha Sen, Vivek Asri, Bedashree Gogoi, Suhayla Sharif, Prutha Chakraborty, Himansu Parekh, Petra O’Neill, Kersi Meher-Homji, Gaurav Masand, Auntyji, Minal Khona SALES AND MARKETING Charu Vij ADMN Aanchal Matta

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

T

he actions of Hamas on 7 Oct in Israel were barbaric and deserve condemnation in the strongest terms. The killing of over 1,400 innocent people, the raping of women, the taking of over 200 hostages, many of them elderly and vulnerable, shocked the world. Condemnations came in from all over the world, with the exception of Russia and China.

The response from Israel has been ferocious. With the fourth largest military at its disposal, the nation’s fury turned on the Hamas militants who have been hiding amongst the civilian population in the Gaza area. With incessant air strikes and ferocious fire power, buildings including soft targets have been bombed to the ground. The Gaza strip, with the sea on one side and Egypt and Israel blocking it on the other, is described as the world’s largest open-air prison for over 2.3 million, half of them under the age of 18. Since the bombing of

Gaza started, more than 8,500 people have been killed, including some 3,500 children. A statement from UNICEF, the UN children’s agency, called Gaza “a graveyard for thousands of children, a living hell for everyone else.”

Nations of the world need to step up efforts to prevent the unfolding human catastrophe in the Middle East. While the Israeli government has a strong need to seek revenge and not show itself as vulnerable, it may allow itself to get into a long-drawn-out conflict as it seeks to hold to account the 40,000 Hamas terrorists hiding among the 2.3 million civilian population.

Can India play a larger role in this humanitarian catastrophe?

“An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind,” Gandhi had once said.

India has experienced terrorism at close quarters, most noticeably when ten Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists infiltrated India and killed more than 160 people in Mumbai in 2008, with clear evidence of support from Pakistan. Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister at that time; in a recent op-ed, American author Thomas Friedman has praised Manmohan Singh and the restraint shown by India then,

and the decision taken by Singh and senior Indian diplomats not to retaliate militarily. To choose to concentrate on diplomatic, covert, and other measures was the right decision for that time and place.

India has a lengthy tradition of supporting Palestinian rights, including with its vote at the UN. In 1988, it became one of the first countries to recognise a Palestinian State and has voted in favour of UN resolutions that backed the Palestinian cause, including their right to self-determination. Modi in 2018 visited the West Bank, a first for an Indian prime minister.

But the relationship with Israel has been growing stronger over the years, especially after Israel helped New Delhi with emergency supplies of arms and ammunition during a 1999 clash with Pakistan. In 2017, Modi also became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel, upgrading ties to a strategic partnership during the trip.

As a self-proclaimed leader of the Global South, though India’s current economic interest may align with Israel, its values should align with the people of Gaza.

NOVEMBER 2023 5

CONTENTS SPECIAL FEATURES NOSTALGIA Look what we found while leafing through some old Indian Link issues

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32

39

42

22

KIDS’ DIWALI

Announcing the winners of our annual Diwali Art Contest for kids

ART

Indian artist Harsha at Sculpture by the Sea

PHOTOGRAPHY

Nailing those Diwali night clicks

IN MEMORIAM

Bishan Singh Bedi: A decades old friendship

6 NOVEMBER 2023

26 32 39 42

COVER STORY DIWALI MY WAY How our Indian-Australian identity is inspiring ‘new’ traditions

12

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ANZ Plus wishes you a happy Diwali filled with light and prosperity.

NOVEMBER 2023 7

Our offices will Open until 6pm on the 10th of NOV for Dhanteras!

We will have a large range of gold and silver product in stock with special diwali themed bullion coins.

Scan for live prices

8 NOVEMBER 2023

www.guardian-gold.com.au

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NOVEMBER 2023 9

YOUR SAY

29 YEARS It was on 24 Oct 1994 that Indian Link’s first print issue rolled off the presses. On 24 Oct this year, PAWAN LUTHRA thumbed through the pages of that inaugural edition, talking us through the talking points then.

Shortly after, RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA joined him to look at Indian Link’s early years, 1994 – 1999.

Saurabh Anand wrote: Beautiful to see, well done.

Jodi McKay wrote: It’s lovely to hear you reflecting on so many important moments.

Jyotsna Sharma wrote: Happy birthday to Indian Link, great video!

Ruchi Lamba wrote: Love this.

Padmini Sunder wrote: Interesting news items (from times gone by)!

Congratulations Indian Link. You have done very well.

Aneeta Menon wrote: LOL the Aashiqui nightclub! Eternal.

Valerie Seidel wrote: So to think I was in Year 6 then …! What a journey, thanks for sharing! What a privilege to have (ever so briefly) been a part of it.

Kanan Patel wrote: How informative.

Makes you think how far we have come as a community.

Sheba Nandkeolyar wrote: I like this interactive conversation capturing history! Congratulations on a brilliant journey. Passion and consistent commitment create excellence. Well done! We are now waiting for the 40th celebrations.

Pink Sari Inc wrote: Looking forward to 24.10.24! Congrats Indian Link on completing 29 years. Rajni Luthra and Pawan Luthra, your sincere and tireless efforts are to be commended.

Thank you for your impactful articles and for being a voice for us Indians 10 NOVEMBER 2023

in Australia. Wishing you many more years of good journalism.

Joseph La Posta wrote: Brilliant!

Congratulations Rajni and Pawan Luthra Abbas Raza Alvi wrote: Congratulations Pawan and Rajni.

I have seen and been part of this journey since your first issue. It is good to see your continuous work for the community. Though I do not have a record of your first issue, I do have some old issues from the time of the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Sanjay Deshwal wrote: Congratulations Pawan ji and team.

I came to Australia in 1994 and we advertised in your Newspaper. Thanks for being a great advocate and a very active media outlet of Indian Diaspora Deepak Gupta wrote: Nicely put together.

Jyoti Dogra wrote: Congratulations!

Inspiring and beautiful journey!

Sriraman ("Sri") Annaswamy wrote: As one of the 20 odd people who were present at your inaugural Indian Link summit in 1994, well done and well deserved Pawan Luthra, Rajni Luthra, Indian Link Media Group.

Indeed, it's not that well known that the Indian Link Media Group featured Australia's first ever article on Australian Advanced-analytics centres of excellence authored by Usha Arvind circa 2009, almost a FULL decade before the venerable AFR did! Keep breaking new ground Team, all the very best to the next 30 years.

Heidi Han wrote: Happy 29th Anniversary!

Shripat Surana wrote: With changing times and information overload in cyberspace, your magazine continues to be most sought-after free takeaway

for readers like me, after the routine grocery purchase trip. Keep up the good work, Indian Link.

Indians in Sydney wrote: Huge congratulations to Pawan Luthra and Rajni Luthra for Indian Link’s 29th birthday! Your remarkable journey with the newspaper, fostering connections between Australia and India, has made you strong advocates for the thriving Indian community. Your impactful voice is truly appreciated. Wishing you continued success and community empowerment in the years ahead!

Phillip Boniface wrote: Congratulations Pawan and all those who made Indian Link so popular to read, over all these years Anu Shivaram wrote: Well done, Indian Link. You have been a strong voice for the growing Indian community.

Yadu Singh wrote: Congratulations, Indian Link. You undoubtedly do a great job/service for the community. I enjoy reading it. Your radio program is good too. Keep it up!

Gitesh Agarwal wrote: Congratulations.. what a fabulous journey.

Dipen Rughani wrote: What a wonderful journey, Pawan Luthra and Rajni Luthra. You guys have created something very special for the NRIs in Australia, thank you! So much rich content has been shared with your readers, and to consistently provide this for 29 years is just incredible.

Keep up the fantastic work and we look forward to being kept informed for many more decades to come.

Natasha Jha Bhaskar wrote: Many congratulations Rajni Luthra, Pawan Luthra and the whole Indian Link team. Such a huge milestone. Thank

you for your rich and vivid stories that always capture the essence of this bilateral relationship. We in Australia are fortunate to have an ongoing living resource like this, which keeps us real and deeply rooted.

Bish Mukherjee wrote: Happy 29th, Indian Link. I am so happy to be associated with this flagship publication in its formative years and see it evolve. Hats off to the vision of Pawan Luthra and the unflinching support of Rajni. They saw the publication succeed and succeed really well. Congratulations and all the best for many more years to come.

Dhanya Samuel wrote: Congratulations again. I am so proud to be associated and a part of the team. Keep going!

Mitu Bhowmick Lange wrote: Heartiest congratulations and more power to you and the team. What an amazing inspiring journey.

Michael Hennessy wrote: Congratulations Pawan, what an incredible contribution to the community and such a huge influence to so many.

Sharad Pathak wrote: Heartiest congratulations for this milestone. Very proud of your achievements. I have witnessed your hard work, struggle and passion all these years. Still remember our early meetings at Seven Hills, at your city office, at the radio station. All the best for future.

Ramu Chakravarthy wrote: Amazing journey Pawan, Hats off to you for enriching the indian community in Aust. Indian Link is integral part of every Indian’s success story in Australia.

Anupam Sharma wrote: Yup, remember it like yesterday; we talked on 3 radio stations with you. Cheers with the best single malt to many more years ahead.

Lokesh Varma wrote: I remember the chats about reinventing Indian media at your original King St offices.

An amazing journey since then, Pawan and Rajni.

Monty Sachdev wrote: Congrats Pawan - a long journey traversed with passion and great service to the community.

Rajan Marwaha wrote: Congratulations Pawan - a milestone indeed. Wish you decades of growth.

Andrew Charlton, Mala Mehta, Srinivas Karkenahalli, Smita Pawar Nashikkar, Nirupa Prasad, Meena Mahanty Kumar, Indo-Aust Bal Bharathi Vidyalaya - Hindi School Inc, Shyamal Bhatia, Dhiresh Nijhawan, Ashish Chawla, Rashmi Watson, Poornima Menon, Augustine Jiljilmary, Cheryl Mehta, Sarika Goyal, Bandana Cultural School, Vrinda Fernando, Smita Shah, Saurabh Khurana, Saliha Wazirzada, Sateesh Reddy, Sandeep Suri, Sharmily Nagarsekar, Sanjay Bery, Michael O'Neill, Arun Sharma, Shripat Surana, Dolly Somaiya, Prashant Mohan and Hitesh Kaplish also sent in notes of congratulations.

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MAMMOOTTY ON POSTAGE STAMP In October, the Australian National Parliament unveiled a personalised postal stamp commemorating the legendary Indian actor Mammootty Andrew Charlton MP for Parramatta wrote: On Monday, I had the absolute pleasure of unveiling a new Australian stamp in honour of the legendary actor Mammootty. In addition to his terrific performances on screen, Mammootty has won the hearts of the Indian diaspora through his work to support parents of those living abroad through his program Family Connect.

Congratulations on your remarkable achievements.

Babu Verghese, President of the World Malayalee Council Sydney, wrote: This is a remarkable gesture and a well-deserved recognition of Mammootty’s contributions, not only as an actor but also as a philanthropist. We hold a great sense of pride in this moment.

Philip Green, Australian High Commissioner to India, shared our post: A fitting tribute to Indian cinema! Australia unveiled a special postal stamp honouring the legendary Indian actor Mammootty. An emblem of the deepening AustraliaIndia bond, this collectible is a true celebration of culture and cinema.

CAPTION CONTEST We asked, What are Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli giggling about?

Raghu Rules wrote: Let’s keep this comp rolling until we lift the cup Rekha Srinivasmurthy wrote: Apne des ke maidaanon mein khelkar jeetne ka mazaa hi kuch aur hai yaar.

Padmini Sunder wrote: Lagta hai hamaari bibiyaan peecha nahi chodegi, dekho saath saath baithi hani.

Amit Goyal wrote: Kay faaltu mein itne run bana daale.

Jimmy Sharma wrote: 100 rupiye tu dal Kohli, aaur 100 rupiye main, tawa chicken khayenge, beer hai fridge mein.

Suhas Tiwatane wrote: Logon ko aate hain nazar do hum; magar dekho, do nahin.

WHERE IN OZ The largest Durga Temple in Australia.

Where in Oz? The answer is Rockbank, Vic. Readers Bhamini Sampath, Venkateshwari Thukkaram, Kunal Anil Sharma, Anjali Maindiratta, Uma Vijai, Smita Acharya and Monika Walia got it right.

ON INDIAN ART AND ARTISTS IN AUSTRALIA You liked PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY’s reports on Melbourne artists Yoge Biju and Anudeepa Kadiresan Australian High Commission New Delhi wrote: Chennai-born Melbournebased Anudeepa Kadiresan is bringing Indian art to Melbourne through her Tanjore paintings. Anudeepa’s artwork transcends time, blending tradition with innovation.

Philip Green shared our story: If you're driving through Dandenong’s Little India precinct in Melbourne, artist Yoge Biju’s murals are unmissable!

These murals reflect Yoge’s knowledge of Indian folk art style.

WHERE IN INDIA This famous cave temple is believed to be the home of Goddess Parvati or Goddess Shakti. There’s no idol; instead, the cave houses naturally formed pindies, or manifestations of the goddess. Where in India?

The answer is Vaishno Devi, Katra, J&K. Readers Adiiti Bhargava, Jyoti Dogra, Dipen Patel, Bhamini Sampath, Manju Saneja, Bhanu Kothari, Anika Gulati, Mansi Kaushal and Meena Sunder got it right.

BOOKS QUIZ We asked, of which Indian novel is this the opening line: “Punctually at midday he opened his bag and spread out his professional equipment, which consisted of a dozen

cowrie shells, a square piece of cloth with obscure mystic charts on it, a notebook and a bundle of Palmyra writing” Is it: A. Malgudi Days by R.K.Narayan

B. The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni C. Sea of Poppies by Amitav Ghosh Readers Meena Sunder and Anu Shivaram got the correct answer: Malgudi Days.

NOVEMBER 2023 11

COVER STORY

BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

I

t’s Diwali 2023, and once again, the urge to celebrate the Festival of Lights with its traditional fanfare is upon us.

We want to go the whole shebang – new clothes, festive food, decorations, parties, fireworks – to relive the atmosphere of past Diwali celebrations.

And so we celebrate with a vengeance, almost, even when Diwali falls mid-week (a lucky coincidence this year it’s on a Sunday!)

We now no longer mark our Diwalis on the closest weekend before or after, but instead, as the past few years have shown, weeks before and after Diwali!

We now celebrate at the family level by decking the house roof to gate in fairy lights – garden and driveway included. (Many of us are happy to go overboard by adding more lights in all possible Diwali motifs, elaborate rangolis and full-fledged dioramas in our front yards – looking at you, Western Sydney).

We celebrate at multiple community events, at corporate functions, at government levels in all our states including our parliaments, and the highest leaders in the land send us their wishes, their words reflecting they understand the spirit of the festival.

The mainstream media reports on our celebrations, and our Australian friends wish us Happy Diwali.

We’ve revived the spirit of Diwali for our own selves here in our new home.

Yet it was not always like this.

HOW OLD-TIME DIWALIS INSPIRED ‘NEW’ TRADITIONS

Yes, we remember Diwalis with that sole box of agarbattis which, in the absence of an elaborate home mandir, single-handedly brought on that sense of transcendence. The mithai platter was mostly Darrell Lea and Ferrero Rocher, with perhaps a single Indian delicacy, overpriced of course. But the house full of friends, the sparklers afterwards, the laughter and happy chatter, the music and the dancing, brought on that sense of community that is at the crux of all contemporary Diwalis.

In this scenario, creating our own Diwali rituals, was but an organic progression.

Many of us who have been here long, have indeed adopted ‘new’ traditions, ones that we created ourselves in the early days here – 30, 40 or 50 years ago – as a way of improvising in the face of diminished (or non-existent) options.

The new practices we devised, described below, align with Diwali values that have endured for centuries, but include aspects of our adopted culture.

In many instances, these new practices have now stuck. The spirituality and meaning we introduced in our own individual ways, will in all probability live on as ‘family rituals’, going forward.

LIGHT ‘EM UP, BABY!

It’s Diwali with a difference, as our Indian-Australian identity inspires ‘new’ traditions 12 NOVEMBER 2023

Remember the time when the ledges of verandas and doorways were lit with beautifully painted clay diyas? For three days (sometimes more) their little flames shimmered and sparkled in the evening air and despite being a fire hazard, they were tended with loving care, and extinguished only after the festivities had ended and the last

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HOW TO ‘AUSSI-FY’ YOUR DIWALI

Diwali décor: Tablescape minimalism

guest had left the home.

We’ve moved on now to tealights, votives, floaters, battery-operated flameless candles (love the ones that flicker), fairy lights, and most recently, water-activated candles.

But the ‘special candle’ tradition lives on in my family. It began by encouraging the kids to pick their own special candles from the bargain shops, as a way of getting them involved in Diwali.

Cactus-shaped, frog-shaped, and car-shaped candles looked a bit out of place at Diwali night puja, but I allowed them for the sake of initiative. (Twice had to gently suggest a change of tack, given the choices turned out to be thong-shaped and skull-shaped).

The number candles from the annual birthday cake also made regular appearances as special offerings (but may have been my way of reducing my own waste footprint, I’m not sure).

Now as young adults, the ‘special candle’ choices are more mindful - natural candles with no dyes or enhancers, or those purchased from charity-based operations.

Whatever floats your boat, I say. One year not so long ago, this involved making our own candles from scratch (thanks to a candlemaking kit purchased online).

FUNDRAISER DIWALI

Where would we be without our Diwali parties! The dhamaka that goes with guests arriving all bedecked in their traditional finest, the women glittering with sequins and stones,

Fruit as well as mithai platters

Pooja ambience: Simple sophistication

the men looking dapper and deodorised. It’s time to get into party mode, let loose and dance the night away, helped along the path of toe-trodding with a couple of large whites, browns or whatever’s going.

Naturally, everyone brings a plate to make things easier on the host who’s put their home at risk by offering to throw the party.

For the Singh family* of Orange NSW, the grand Diwali party is an annual affair, but has always come with a special request.

“We ask our guests to carry a small donation with them, and place it anonymously in a wishing well at the entrance. This year our collection is going to Cancer Council.”

A wonderful way to get people thinking of sharing and caring on Diwali, without the pressure of attending a formal fundraiser.

For Sydney’s Sarita Chand though, the formal fundraiser is the way to go.

Each Diwali for the past few years, Sarita has helped raise funds for girls’ education in India. As Chairperson of the charity Pratham Australia, Sarita’s passion has seen her embrace campaigns like #LightaLife and #SecondChance, and she’s helped see hundreds of girls in India who dropped out, return to school and finish their education.

The lucky thing about Hinduism and our way of life, is that inclusion of all kind is welcomed: Vasudhaiva kutumbakam.

(Literally, ‘the whole world is my family’). Given that Indians in Australia are known for their ability to integrate well, here’s to another way of standing out with our unique hyphenated identity - ‘Aussi-fying’ our Diwali!

Here are some ideas.

1. Taash party: A casino theme This could go down well at Diwali, especially if you follow the Punjabi tradition of indulging in a spot of gambling, which, may we remind you before you protest, is sanctioned at Diwali. And of course your adopted culture has its own gambling traditions, such as Two-up.

Enough said! So start off with Two-up, and then transport your guests to the world of high rollers. Move on to a fullfledged casino set up, with games such as blackjack, roulette and poker. Of course, you’ll play with fun money, to get the thrill of the real casino, without the risk. Think however, what to do with the kids if you are bachche wale log!

2. Decorations: An Aussie thoran The thoran, a door decoration, is the Hindu equivalent of a Christmas wreath. Hung at the top of the main threshold, it is intended as a festive sign of welcome. It is traditionally crafted out of mango leaves (a symbol of plenty) and marigold flowers (a symbol of passion and creativity).

Today however, it is made with cotton, satin, crystals, wooden beads and other materials, but its intent remains the same.

As Indian-origin Australians, surely we can make ours with pinecones?

Gumnut and gum leaf thorans, now there’s another idea for you.

3. Indigenous-inspired rangoli - Rangolis floor paintings with powder - are another typical Indian sign of welcome that could be given the native Australian treatment.

Native flowers, seashells, gumnuts, pinecones, banksia candles can all look great in your flower carpet rangoli.

4. Native Australian ingredients in your curry: Impress your guests with your experiments marrying Indian cuisine with native Australian foods.

There’s a whole new world out there waiting to be explored! How about akudjura (bush tomato) chutney with your corn chips? Dips made of curried native plums? Care for some mountain pepper berry flavoured curry? Kachumber salad with munthari berries sounds like a winner.

Dhanya Samuel, food blogger and Indian Link contributor, also suggests the use of mountain pepper to make pepper chicken or bhindi fry; lemon myrtle in lemon mint coolers and in chilli pickle, tomato relish and garlic chutney; finger lime salsa topping for roasted papads; New Zealand spinach or warrigal greens cooked with dal; Australian native yams cooked in paneer style preparations, and paperbark instead of banana leaves in which to steam fish.

NOVEMBER 2023 13

COVER STORY

Aussie tribute: Indigenous-inspired rangoli

‘My special candle’: Quirking up the diya!

“I believe education is the first step out of poverty. I have had many chances in life and others have not, and I want to give back to those who have not,” she told Indian Link.

festival. Who knows, it could mean the start of a better cross-cultural understanding as they reciprocate the invitation to join in celebrating Christmas or Eid or Rosh Hashanah.

HEALTHY DIWALI

DIWALI DECOR

Having just been diagnosed with diabetes, Anita Shetty* of Wentworthville NSW has vowed to have a fruity Diwali.

“I hope it sticks as a family tradition,” she told Indian Link.

She’s looking at fruit platters instead of mithai platters to share with friends and family this year.

There’s a wonderful variety at the grocer’s for her to choose from, given we are still in spring (although it does not feel like it!)

Mangoes, the all-time favourites are still aplenty; there are a whole host of berries (mulberries, blueberries, youngberries); Valencia oranges; cherries, and melons.

Nuts, dried fruit, herbs and seasoning are other things to include in a healthy vegetarian hamper, as well as olives and pickles, cheese, protein sources like legumes (eg chickpeas and edamame), with whole grain crackers.

ROUSING RITUALS

Now there are some things that are synonymous with Diwali, like the traditional pooja which is attended by the whole family and close friends. Some traditions should remain unchanged, but why not invite some of your non-Indian friends to participate in the pooja and the meal that follows, like the Bhambhani family of Henley Beach SA. “I have friends from my mother’s group and my husband’s work coming over for Diwali this year – a wonderfully mixed group,” Sharmila Bhambhani revealed.

And of course, the requests have already come in for saris to borrow, with the mandatory bling to accompany.

Regardless of their nationalities, the Bhambhani guests will get an insight into the

“I haven’t been able to do my traditional Diwali decorations very well in the last couple of years because of our latest family member – the puppy!” lamented Nisha Chaman of Perth.

The tealights on the floor are a clear danger; the floral rangoli becomes an appealing play area for the fur-baby, and the traditional swastik markings with kumkum-and-rice mixtures have to be completely avoided, as the pup can lick them clean.

“This year I’ve stuck upon a new idea,” Nisha revealed. “Guests are going to see ‘tablescape’ decorations instead of rangoli and lamps.”

She has picked candles of different sizes to lay out on satin fabric, with matching rocks in silver strewn around, as well as rock dust to decorate. Silver ornaments will be put to creative use, such as pooja items, filigree boxes, and silver ‘Shubh-Laabh’ and GaneshLakshmi coins, and a strategically placed flower or two.

“I think it’ll be a nice touch of sophistication, without having to overdecorate.”

Meanwhile, there are those for whom the old is becoming new again.

Many in the Blacktown LGA in NSW are currently spending an inordinate amount of time prepping for their Diwali decorations, some even taking time off work.

Manjunath Hukkeri and his wife Sujatha of Schofields NSW, and their nextdoor neighbours Sarita and Apurv Kadukar both have won multiple awards for their Diwali decorations. Ward St, on which they live, and which has many Indian-owned homes, has begun to attract visitors from across the Sydney region simply to see the Diwali

Fundraiser Diwali

decorations, which rival the Christmas decorations of yore.

The dioramas on the front yard of these homes, with Diwali and other regional themes like Shivaji’s fort, have become teaching points for community youngsters, and museum-like attractions for others.

Rangoli on the doorstep is another drawcard, more and more elaborate each year, not only at the threshold but also bordering the driveways and going up letterboxes.

A ROUND OF TAASH

Aussie tribute: Casino-inspired taash party

14 NOVEMBER 2023

The tradition of playing cards on Diwali is an age-old one, and the only day in the year on which you can legitimately gamble.

Legend has it that the Goddess Parvati played dice with her husband Lord Shiva on Diwali, and she decreed that whoever gambled on Diwali night would prosper throughout the ensuing year. What better reason to play flush, rummy or teen-patti!

Priyam Sahni*of Melbourne has planned a big do this Diwali.

“I’m considering getting the players to pledge a small percentage of their winnings to charity,” he told Indian Link.

If you’re not into gambling, bring out the UNO or memory card game, and perhaps Lady Luck - shmi will smile on you for the rest of the year.

Diwali is all about starting afresh. It is the Hindu New Year, and there’s plenty of new things: new clothes, a freshly spring-cleaned house, new utensils, even major new purchases lie a new car. So how about new ideas for the way we celebrate?

Here’s to evolving concepts in Diwali celebrations. They may be unique ways to mark the Festival of Lights, but hey, we’ll be creating our own distinctive IndianAustralian traditions!

With inputs by Sheryl Dixit *Names changed upon request

www.indianlink.com.au

Jalebi with Rosewater

Chocolate Besan Ladoo

150g plain flour 2 tbs chickpea flour ¼ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp turmeric powder ½ cup natural yoghurt 450g caster sugar 1 ½ tsp rosewater extract 1¼ cup canola oil 3 tbs pistachios, shelled and chopped 2 tbs dried rose petals

50g flaked almonds, unsalted 160g ghee 275g chickpea flour, sifted 175g icing sugar, sifted 2 tbs cocoa powder 1 tsp ground cardamom 100g dark chocolate 1 tbs pistachios, shelled and chopped

1 Whisk the flour, chickpea flour, baking powder and turmeric. Whisk in the yoghurt and 150ml of water to form a smooth batter. Leave to rest in the fridge overnight.

1 Heat a dry pan on high heat and toast flaked almonds for 2-3 minutes, tossing to ensure they don’t burn. Remove from the heat and chop finely.

2 Place the batter in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat on medium speed for 10 minutes.

Place the sugar in a saucepan with the rosewater extract and 650ml of water, bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until it reaches a syrup consistency.

2 Melt the ghee in a large wok and tip in the chickpea flour. Cook, stirring all the time, for 20-25 minutes. Stir in the chopped almonds, remove from the heat and leave to cool slightly. Tip into a large bowl.

PREP 8 hrs COOK 20 mins MAKES 45

3 Heat the oil in a deep pan. Add the batter into a squeezy bottle and squeeze the batter carefully into the oil in a round coil shape. Cooking in batches, fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, remove from the oil and drain on kitchen paper.

PREP 15 mins COOK 35 mins MAKES 20

3 Whisk the icing sugar, cocoa powder and cardamom powder together in a bowl and tip into the flour mix along with a couple of tablespoons of water. Knead to a smooth dough and leave to cool.

4 Dip the warm cookies into the sugar syrup for 30 seconds, remove, sprinkle with pistachios and rose petals and leave to cool on a wire rack.

4 Melt the dark chocolate in 30 second bursts in the microwave. Roll the mix into balls with your hands. Dip each ball in chocolate, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, leave to cool and serve.

Description

Description

Jalebi sweets are traditional for Diwali feasts, delicious soaked in rose water syrup and served with a beautiful pistachio and rose petal topping.

This traditional Indian treat is delicious with rich cocoa and a dark chocolate topping.

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

NOVEMBER 2023 15

ENVIRONMENT

South Asian climate collective Sapna wins Environment Vic award Sapna’s work brings new insights to climate justice, missing from the mainstream climate movement BY LAKSHMI GANAPATHY

S

apna – South Asian Climate Solidarity, a South Asian-led climate justice collective, has received an Innovation Award at this year’s Environment Victoria community environment awards.

The award recognises their report published in October 2022, ‘Why NorthSouth Intersectionality Matters in Climate Justice’, which draws on interviews from 12 young South Asian climate activists to highlight the need for Australian climate activism to be inclusive of migrant voices.

Dr Ruchira Talukdar, Co-Founder and Director of Sapna, says the award is affirming for multicultural climate advocacy.

“I like that the report and the work [we do] is being acknowledged as innovative,” she told Indian Link. “The dream is for Sapna’s work to be recognised as creating a new understanding, but also telling stories about communities in ways not done before in the white climate movement space.”

Sapna seeks to create a just future for South Asian and Indigenous populations, whose divergent experiences of climate impacts are often overlooked. “[Traditional] campaigning is singular in focus – ‘stop coal’ – and tailors stories for that singular aim,” Dr Talukdar observed.

“But we know as activists from South Asia that for our communities, everything is intricately connected with the land, which is why we have to go beyond the singular focus of coal vs renewables.”

16 NOVEMBER 2023

Sharing stories on the impacts of climate change on South Asian communities and South Asian activism such as the Chipko and Narmada movements, Sapna seeks to shift the narrative surrounding the global South.

“We desire to honour and connect with the resilience and the incredible imagination and ingenuity of our communities,” said Dr Talukdar. “They’re not just poor people struggling, who need to be saved.”

A Sapna meeting Environment Victoria CEO Jono LaNause is proud to confer the award on “We are delighted to recognise the the South Asian Climate collective Sapna, leadership of Sapna in highlighting and highlights the importance of recognising the intersections of climate justice and underrepresented perspectives within the South Asian communities, and building climate movement. relationships between those communities “Human society will only succeed in and the wider environmental movement.” tackling climate change if everyone is involved, Dr Talukdar’s passion for intersectional yet so many Australian environmental activism stems from the 20 years she’s organisations have failed to engage with spent working in India and Australia, within multicultural communities,” he said.

“Our ‘sapna’ is to grow a multicultural organisation which shows the [mainstream] climate movement in Australia how things can be done differently, with culture and stories.”

Dr Ruchira Talukdar

major climate campaigners such as Greenpeace and the Australian Conservation Foundation.

“When Julia Gillard’s carbon tax was going through, and everyone was out rallying against Tony Abbott, I didn’t see a single person of colour in the sea of protesters,” she recounted. “It got me thinking, where are my people?”

Founded during the pandemic, the Sapna network consists of 30 South Asians of various backgrounds and ages located across Australia.

“There were quite a few intergenerational South Asian climate activists who just wanted a space for themselves, so we got together during lockdown; in the beginning it was a lot of painting and talking,” Dr Talukdar revealed.

“When I started sharing stories about the rich history of environmental movements in India, it was like glue for us. The young South Asians born in Australia felt it was part of their legacy, something they were missing.”

Sapna translates from Hindi as ‘dream’, and the collective have a strong vision for international climate solidarity.

“Instead of the doomsday scrolling we do about climate impacts in the global south, we’re about vibrant futures for communities,” said Dr Talukdar.

“Our ‘sapna’ is to grow a multicultural organisation which shows the [mainstream] climate movement in Australia how things can be done differently, with culture and stories.”

Find out more about Sapna – South Asian Climate Solidarity via sapnasoliarity.org

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NOVEMBER 2023 17

NATALIE WARD MLC

MARK SPEAKMAN SC MP

Deputy Leader of the NSW Liberal Party

Leader of the Opposition, NSW Liberal Leader

MARK COURE MP

Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism, Member for Oatley

WISHING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A HAPPY AND ENLIGHTENING DIWALI

MARK TAYLOR MP

SHADOW MINISTER FOR CORRECTIONS AND WESTERN SYDNEY,

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NOVEMBER 2023 19

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NOVEMBER 2023 21

E N A L Y R O M E M N W DO

NOSTALGIA

leafing n e e b e ’v e W 29th year. ’s k in L n ia king us all d a In m k ’s r a it , m s o e t w o ostalgic as ld family ph n o ll t a a g k c in a t t b e s here! g t g o in h k s o p lo a We’re n e s k li w d en and No issues, an h T ld o e r s a pic! m u u o o s d h n g g e in u S r a ? h d thro S e . zzy inside ’ve preserv u o y t a h t e u warm and fu n Link iss ia d In n a in r e Were you ev THEN

THEN

MANJIT GUJRAL, KARANDEEP GUJRAL 2005

NOW

Father and son jointly launched Manjit’s Concord Function Centre in 2000, seeking to expand the Manjit brand name following success on the restaurant scene. Today, if you’re a member of Sydney’s Indian community, you’ve definitely been to an event at the Gujrals’ function centre, or hosted your own event there.

Now with an upmarket restaurant at Barrangaroo run by the younger son Varun, a heat-and-eat line of products and outdoor catering, their brand has become one to reckon with in the Indian food scene in Sydney.

PREETI JABBAL 2007

THEN

NOW

Indian Link’s former Melbourne coordinator and prolific contributor, Preeti is now Executive Producer at SBS Hindi. Don’t miss those papers in her hand in this pic (always the MC of choice in Melbourne’s Indian community!). And no doubt that’s a pen in her other hand.

NOW

SUNIL BADAMI 2007 He became a grand champion on the Channel Nine quiz show Temptation after surviving eight nights of questions from host Ed Phillips. This year Sunil tried his hand at politics, contesting in the NSW elections as an Independent candidate. In between, he became a writer, broadcaster and academic, choosing to describe himself as ‘bon vivant, flaneur and raconteur’.

22 NOVEMBER 2023

www.indianlink.com.au

SONIA SADIQ GANDHI 2005

THEN

An international student in this image, Sonia is now an entrepreneur – founder and CEO of an events enterprise, founder of the IABCA awards, and has amassed a decade of experience in strategic marketing, public relations, and end-to-end event management. A champion of diversity and inclusion, she has also served as a commissioner at Multicultural NSW.

THEN

NOW

CHARISHMA KALIYANDA 2019 Here’s politician Charishma giving it her first shot in the NSW state elections as a candidate for Holsworthy. This year, she became the Member for Liverpool in the NSW Parliament. In between, she won a position at Liverpool Council, impressing in her role as Councillor.

NOW

THEN

KHUSHAAL VYAS 2007 He was a newsmaker then, and he is one now, as a lawyer, writer and activist.

Khushaal, when we called you a “gifted young man with talent for talk”, we meant public speaking of course. At 12, you showed you had what it takes. Only weeks ago, you wowed us all with your brilliant speeches for the Yes side in the Voice to Parliament campaign, as not one but two Prime Ministers watched you from the sidelines. With your work for Desis For Yes, you put Australia’s Indian community in the national spotlight.

NOW

NOVEMBER 2023 23

WISHING YOU A

HAPPY DIWALI!

Strathfield Council would like to extend their best wishes to everyone celebrating Holi festival.

May your Diwali be abundant with light.

ou your C m o Fr

ncillors at Strathfie

ld Co

unc

il

(L-R) Cr Matthew Blackmore, Cr Sharangan Maheswaran, Cr Nella Hall, Mayor Karen Pensabene, Deputy Mayor Sandy Reddy, Cr Raj Datta and Cr Benjamin Cai

StrathfieldCouncil

24 NOVEMBER 2023

StrathfieldMC

StrathfieldCouncil StrathfieldEvents

StrathfieldTV

strathfield.nsw.gov.au

www.indianlink.com.au

29

29 NOVEMBER 2023 25

KIDS' DIWALI

OLIVIA BANERJEE

KARUNYA KARTHIKEYAN

Bright and joyful It’s been another fantastic year for Indian Link’s annual Diwali Art Contest for kids BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

O

livia Banerjee of St. Kilda East Melbourne and Karunya Karthikeyan of Cherrybrook NSW have won this year’s Indian Link Diwali Art Contest, in their age categories 8-12 years and 7 years & under, respectively.

Both take home book vouchers valued at $75 each.

Ryka Pankaj 12, of Armidale NSW and Riya Jain, 5, of Dandenong North, Melbourne claimed the runner-up prizes in their age categories. They each win book vouchers valued at $50.

12-year-old Olivia’s winning mandala forms the artwork for Indian Link’s Diwali card for 2023. Bright and cheerful, it is at once uplifting and heartening. The colours are pleasing and delightful in their combination, an outstanding feature being carefully considered shaded patterns.

“I started off by thinking about colour combinations,” Olivia relayed to Indian Link while describing her design. “My art usually has two colours. I picked two textas

at a time and just started. I chose lighter colours instead of dark ones, because I thought the outlines must remain visible.”

She must enjoy art at school, we put to her.

“Yes, but I find my inspiration online,” she replied with a maturity that belies her tender age. “Currently I’m making drawings in grayscale.”

She’s also into crochet, she revealed. “I

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY IN EDUCATION

saw it on YouTube and learnt on my own.

I make animals and toys as gifts for my friends.”

Has she won other competitions before?

“Yes I’ve entered a few competitions and won,” the Year 6 student at Shelford Girls Grammar at Caulfield said. “Last year I won a design competition at Ollie’s Place.”

The Australian kidswear chain

eventually commissioned her winning design and it went on sale.

“It was winter wear – a long-sleeved jumper designed to look like a butterfly, with wings at the arms.”

Clearly, we have a designer in the making here.

Seven-year-old Karunya Karthikeyan, winner in the younger age category, told Indian Link, “I feel very happy.”

Her grandmother encouraged her, she revealed.“She saw the competition in the magazine at the shops, and showed me.”

Art is Karunya’s favourite school activity.

“I love art - I like to draw leaves,” the Year 1 student at John Purchase Public School at Cherrybrook NSW said.

Karunya also likes to dance and sing, and loves going to Tamil school Balar Malar.

Is she looking forward to Diwali?

“Yes we will light the vilakku (lamp) at our home, wear our Indian clothes and play with sparklers,” she replied.

By a strange coincidence, Karunya’s brother Akhash Karthikeyan had won the same contest in 2019 as a ten-year-old.

The annual Diwali Art Contest for kids is an activity aimed at the youngest members of our community, to include them in the spirit of Diwali in a manner that resonates with them.

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NOVEMBER 2023 27

DIWALI ART CONTEST

7 YEARS & UNDER WINNER: KARUNYA KARTHIKEYAN (7)

RUNNER-UP: RIYA JAIN (5)

ASHWIN ANANTH (7)

ELENA GUPTA (7)

MYRA NAGLAPURA (7)

PARIN KOTHARI (4)

REUBEN G KUMAR (7)

RIVA PARIKH (7)

AASHVI PAL DUTT (7)

TANVI KAKUMANI (6)

28 NOVEMBER 2023

www.indianlink.com.au

Wiell done to our littlest readers – they’ve wowed us yet again in our annual Diwali Art Contest.

Our heartiest congratulations to first prize winners Karunya Karthikeyan (7 years and under Category) and Olivia Banerjee (8-12 years Category) who take home book vouchers valued at $75 each.

Congratulations also to Runners-up Riya Jain (7 years and under Category) and Ryka Pankaj (8-12 years Category).

They’ve won book vouchers worth $50 each.

Keep your eyes peeled for our annual Diwali card, which features Olivia Banerjee’s award-winning design.

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

8-12 YEARS WINNER: OLIVIA BANERJEE (12)

RUNNER-UP: RYKA PANKAJ (12)

AADIT SONAR (11)

AKSHARA SRINIVASAN (9)

ANYA PARIKH (12)

DRITH SHARAD (12)

KRUTI BELLAMKONDA (8)

RUTUJA TAKLE (11)

SAMPURNA CHAKRABORTY (9)

SAUMYA PULIKKAL (10) NOVEMBER 2023 29

ADVERTISEMENT

2023

The Hon. Michelle Rowland MP Minister for Communications Federal Member for Greenway

2023 Diwali Message It gives me great pleasure to extend my best wishes to all those celebrating Diwali in our electorate of Greenway and across the country.

For so many people, this sacred and auspicious time of Diwali is one that urges us to reflect on what we have, and to be grateful for these blessings - the light in our lives.

Whether that be good health, happiness, success in work, good grades in education, or other causes for celebrations like weddings or new family members - we are reminded of the existing elements of prosperity that we are so fortunate have.

And indeed, focusing on how we can bring even more light, and more good for ourselves, our family, and our communities at large, so we may overcome ‘darkness’ for ourselves and others.

As the Member for Greenway, I feel so fortunate that our electorate is so focussed on the service of others.

I hope that all who observe this Festival of Lights enjoy their time with friends and family as we welcome a fresh start and new beginnings.

I wish you all a joyous, meaningful Diwali and look forward to celebrating with you.

Suite 101C 130 Main Street, Blacktown PO Box 8525, Blacktown NSW 2148

E: michelle.rowland.mp@aph.gov.au P: 9671 4780

30 NOVEMBER 2023

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NOVEMBER 2023 31

ART

A Bondi embrace Hyderabad-based artist Harsha Durugadda on his work Brood at Sculpture by the Sea

BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

W

hen Harsha Durugadda saw birds drawn to his sculpture Brood at the ongoing Sculpture by the Sea at Bondi, he was thrilled.

“It made my sculpture complete,” he told Indian Link.

Brood sits in St Mark’s Park along the iconic Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, attracting avian as well as human visitors.

Bright blue in colour, you could mistake it for basket weave from a distance, but as you get closer you realise it’s metallic.

“It’s made of corten steel, usually used in the shipping industry,” Durugadda described.

Short for ‘corrosive-resistant and tensile’, corten resists the corrosive effects of meteorological conditions – making it perfect for Durugadda’s piece at its outdoor location. Capable of being shaped or bent or drawn out, it also lends itself wonderfully to the artist’s central theme of embrace.

32 NOVEMBER 2023

“Yes, the piece depicts a kind of embrace,” Durugadda revealed. “But it’s equally about opening up. Hence the gap in the middle.”

Terms which we use to describe our in-groups, like Family and Country, have become very tightknit, he noted. “Politically and also environmentally, we've become geographically closed. I think we need a bit of opening up. So my ‘embrace’ does not mean embrace very tightly, but embrace in a way that kind of allows other things to pass through, or allows other things to exist.”

At the individual level, think of it like a spiral, he said, where the whole family is connected and yet there’s space in the middle.

At the larger level, think of it as a portal

that must open up to embrace the whole environment.

The local birds certainly seem to have embraced the structure.

“Yes, the magpies have been visiting,” Durugadda laughed.

“The piece is positioned next to bushes, and a beautiful tree on which the birds sit.

They come down to help themselves to the pockets of rainwater that get captured within the curves of the sculpture. It is a wonderful sight. The embrace of the local wildlife is, in many ways, exactly what I wanted to convey. When the birds made it their own, I thought, this is perfect!”

He's learnt a lot about the native birds in his short time here in Sydney – such as the male satin bowerbird, which is attracted to

“My ‘embrace’ does not mean embrace very tightly, but embrace in a way that kind of allows other things to pass through, or allows other things to exist.”

the colour blue and collects blue items to decorate its nest.

The Hyderabad-based JNU-trained artist comes from a long line of sculptors.

“My forefathers were involved in temple sculpture. My father was the first contemporary artist in my lineage.”

This is Durugadda’s fourth appearance at Sculpture by the Sea - the second at Bondi and twice before at Cottesloe in Perth. His 2017 work Column of Sound won him the Rio Tinto Sculpture Award.

The award must surely make this Australian exhibition hold a special place in his heart, but he says it is much more than that.

“I simply love the outdoor location, which is itself an artwork! The sculptures change throughout the day with the lighting. Also, I see a difference in the way the visitors interact with our works – they are not dictated by the usual white cube gallery rules, and so they engage naturally.”

Would he like to see a similar exhibition in India, at a waterside venue?

“I’d love that,” he said. “If only we can find a sponsoring authority that would make it all financially viable!”

For the moment though, he’s enjoying the embrace of his Bondi embrace.

www.indianlink.com.au

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Image: CJ Piture / Jeff Liu

ART

Finding connect with the Dalit community The Sydney-based artist Kirtika Kain’s art practice examines caste and identity

34 NOVEMBER 2023

www.indianlink.com.au

BY PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY

T

The Lunar Line XII (2021)

The materials Kirtika uses – cow dung, sindoor, human hair, charcoal, iron filings, metal dust, gold, and bitumen – define the work (her people) did, but presented on rice paper and silk screens, “the layers of imposed identities and social regulations” become “aesthetic objects of value, thus re-defining and re-imagining a personal and collective narrative.”

The Lunar Line IX (2021)

here is a new and powerful wave of young artists from the Dalit community catalysing a campaign for equality. Delhi-born, Sydneybased artist Kirtika Kain is one of them, using her art practice to examine – and redefine – her identity.

“Art is a language I am most fluent in,” the 33-year-old confesses. “I think art has a way of being a powerful container; it is where the passion, politics and poetry can exist simultaneously. Through making art, I feel a powerful connection to my community and ancestors.”

Her works were on display at Okkoota– an exceptional exhibition curated by Dalit artist-curator Vishal Kumaraswamy at Art House Melbourne in April.

“It was the first exhibition I have been in that draws from the anti-caste movement,” she says of her participation. “As a Dalit who has grown up in Australia, it was so good to finally see these conversations happening. It was the first exhibition where I did not have to explain myself to audiences, where due care was taken in talking about Dalit communities.”

Though she moved to Australia at the age

Kain completed an Undergraduate degree in Fine Arts in 2016 and a Masters in Fine Art in 2018, both at the National Art School. “Art school was a perfect place, as everything I had wanted to say finally found its expression and I’ve never looked back.”

Naturally, the writings of Dr BR Ambedkar were her first access point to understanding caste. Others that have had a powerful impact on Kain include The Trauma of Caste by Thenmozhi Soundararajan, Spotted Goddesses by Roja Singh and The Museum of Broken Tea Cups

by Gunjan Veda.

Artist Kirtika Kain’s body of work lays bare the manner in which oppressive social hierarchies and power structures have been forced upon her people for generations.

The materials she uses – cow dung, sindoor, human hair, charcoal, iron filings, metal dust, gold, and bitumen – define the work they did, but presented on rice paper and silk screens, “the layers of imposed identities and social regulations” become “aesthetic objects of value thus, re-defining and re-imagining a personal and collective narrative.”

This is perhaps most tellingly depicted in her Grit & Gold and Stratum series, which depict the unspoken ‘social rules’ laid down for Dalits, as transcribed in English by Ambedkar.

Is the process difficult compared to simply picking up a brush and dipping it in paint?

Jina Amucha (2020)

of three, away from India’s archaic social system, she learned very early on the many issues surrounding caste.

“Unfortunately, caste travels with the diaspora,” she rues. “We have had many instances here in Australia, where my family have been treated differently by people who have found out our caste. The hiding and the shame do not dissipate as one migrates.”

But unlike in India, living in Australia meant that Kain could create art here and also be celebrated for her talents.

Growing up, she was always aware of the socio-political issues prevalent in India.

“My family migrated to Australia in 1993,” she recalls. “I think during that period, access to social/political issues in India was more limited in Australia, other than an hour of Hindi radio weekly. My parents however made a decision to not discuss caste with us, so we would not feel lesser than anybody else.”

Kain became increasingly aware of caste as her father became involved in Dalit organisations in Sydney. “I was always aware of caste, but in my early 20s and particularly in art school, the nature of my interest changed to something deeper.”

“Somehow it is easier for me than picking up a brush; these are materials I have known all of my life,” she smiles. “The process is spontaneous and chaotic. I have no way to describe how I work – I don’t think I understand it myself but somehow when I work, there is a quiet knowing that is different from the intellectualisation of it, as if my body just knows what to do. The art I make is the only thing that was not instructed to me. It is very freeing.”

Kain’s most momentous work is titled Jina Amucha (2020). “It was based on one of the first autobiographies written by a Dalit woman. I created the work during lockdown. For me it was the first time I was reflecting so much on the enormous love and labour of Dalit women, particularly in the Ambedkarite movement.”

Kirtika Kain’s works will be displayed at an exhibition titled Blue Bloods, at Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery in Sydney in December.

See her work also at the prestigious Biennale of Sydney next year, March 9 to June 10, at venues across Sydney.

Images courtesy: Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery.

Photos: Luis Power NOVEMBER 2023 35

Wishing you all a Happy Diwali from Ku-ring-gai Council

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David Davis MP

Ann-Marie Hermans MP

Member for Southern Metropolitan Region

Member for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region

7/600 Doncaster Rd, Doncaster 3108

1/670 Chapel St, South Yarra 3141

9850 7983

9827 6655

MatthewGuyMP

matthew.guy@parliament.vic.gov.au

HAPPY

DavidDavisMLC

david.davis@parliament.vic.gov.au

DIWALI

TrungLuuWesternMetro

trung.luu@parliament.vic.gov.au

31 Princes Hwy, Dandenong 3175 AnnMarieHermansMP ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT

Authorised by John Pesutto MP, 197 – 199 Riversdale Road, Hawthorn 3122.

36 NOVEMBER 2023

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with Lakshmi Ganapathy MEGHNA is a Melbourne-based musician who fuses alternative hip hop, EDM and pop elements to create music about social issues around the world. She’s performed at the Australian Grand Prix’s Live Fast Festival, The FIFA Women’s World Cup Fan Festival and collaborated with luxury French-Japanese fashion brand Maison Kitsuné for their Kitsuné Musique branch. Meghna is currently appearing on stages across Melbourne as part of the ALWAYS LIVE GarageBand initiative.

How do you go about blending heavy social issues with the energy of hip hop?

It can sometimes be a bit draining looking and reading about social issues, but that makes it all the more important for me to incorporate it into my music. [Process-wise], it initially starts off as writing lyrics to vent the frustration that I can’t physically go stop the conflict. I think writing music and art is a great way of contributing to certain discourses around the world; art makes things better, whether that is spotlighting [perspectives], or making people feel better.

You’ve also done a fair bit of stand-up. Is there any crossover between the onstage experience of stand-up and that of music?

Photo: Michelle Grace Hunder

Definitely. I think comedy gave me the confidence to make a living out of performing. Comedy is the most nervewracking way to perform because you have to evoke a specific response from the audience - you can’t just do your thing and leave, people have to laugh.

It’s all dependent on the reaction of someone else. I always found it scary, but I really enjoyed it and it definitely made singing in public a lot easier. But just being in the thick of it and understanding performing techniques, body language on stage and things like that helped in a lot of ways too.

[Nowadays] I like making jokes even when I’m doing a concert.

Diwali, the Festival of Lights is around the corner. What does Diwali mean to you as a South Asian who’s grown up in Naarm?

I’m really excited. My family’s always instilled it in me and my sibling as something to look forward to. I owe it to them for keeping the tradition alive.

My dad always tells me these amazing stories of Diwali from his childhood in India and how they used to light lamps with his parents who died when I was a baby. [Diwali] reminds me of a connection to my dad’s side that I never really got to experience as an adult.

It's a very special, magical time for me because it feels like I’m home, even though I’m born and raised in Australia.

What's something that you're currently listening to/reading/ playing/watching?

Friends is my favourite show, and I'm absolutely gutted at the death of Matthew Perry. I grew up watching Friends and it’s a bit crazy how much I watch it – every night [I’ve watched] maybe two or three episodes before I go to bed, and I’ve been cycling season one to ten for the last couple of years. It’s a comfort show! I’ve also been listening to a lot of ‘80s SynthWave remixes randomly; there’s a really good one of Somebody That I Used to Know [by Gotye].

What’s a word that you like in a South Asian language, and what does it mean?

‘Rajathi' is what my mum, grandma and granddad always call me. It means Queen or Princess in Tamil. It’s an endearing term, and whenever I hear it, I feel so warm and fuzzy!

And finally: Soan Papdi or Papdi Chaat?

I like any type of chaat, so if you put two plates in front of me, Papdi Chaat.

NOVEMBER 2023 37

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PHOTOGRAPHY like Adobe Photoshop or Picsart and polish your photos to perfection.

compared to shooting in auto mode.

MITHAI SHOTS

My Diwali CLICKS

Diwali night photography tips and tricks

When capturing food in photography, consider a neutral background that compliments your food without distracting from it.

Experiment with contrasting colours, like placing vibrant orange mithais on a pale gray counter or a dark wood table to enhance the colours.

Use negative space to draw attention to the mithais, leaving areas around them empty for visual impact.

Play with placement and framing, exploring different angles, depths, and compositions to find the most appealing shot.

Add a human touch to your photos by incorporating hands in the frame, either by using friends as hand models or positioning your own hands to interact with the mithai, elevating the beauty of your images.

RANGOLI SHOTS

Proper lighting is crucial for photographing your artwork effectively. If you lack professional lighting equipment, create a diffused light effect by placing a white sheet or white plastic between the lights and your rangoli, ensuring even light distribution.

Adjust your camera settings by positioning it to capture most of the rangoli within the frame, allowing a bit of background for context.

Keep your ISO low (around 100) for clear, crisp images, and set the aperture between f-8 and f-11 to control light exposure. After capturing your shots, edit them using software

SPARKLER SHOTS

Start early on in the evening.

Try your first shots just before the sun sets. The setting sun's light, complemented by the ambient glow of the sparklers, will be enough; turn the flash off.

Try some shots with the focus on your child’s face, and some shots where the focus is on the sparklers.

Search online for how to achieve blur, or bokeh as we call it, to bring various aspects of your pic to the fore.

After dark, it’s harder but not impossible to take sparkler shots. Use ambient light from another source – such as an open window.

SPARKLER WRITING

Now this is a whole different ballgame – and Diwali could be a fun time to learn a new skill.

You’ll need to pay particular attention to ISO, aperture and shutter speed - begin with, say, ISO 400, aperture f4, and a shutter speed of 5 seconds (which means you have 5 seconds to do the writing), and see how you go. Remember, the writing will have to be backward! (Or, flip the image later while editing).

Share away on your preferred social media platform! Happy clicking, Happy Diwali.

Himansu Parekh is a professional photographer with a passion for capturing moments that tell captivating stories.

BY HIMANSU PAREKH

I

would pick my DSLR on Diwali night over my phone camera. To take a good night photo, you need the right lighting, and this can be achieved by adjusting your aperture, ISO, and shutter settings.

Search online for more details - perhaps a YouTube tutorial for your particular type of camera - and then get experimenting!

(I would start with an ISO of 400, f4 aperture, and a 1-2 second shutter.)

Having said that though, modern smartphones have their own way of imitating this with their 'Pro mode'. Enabling this allows you to manually adjust the lighting and focus.

Here are some tips for capturing your Diwali moments, for both DSLR and phone cameras.

MAKE SURE YOUR PHONE IS STEADY

Keeping your phone still while taking pictures of sparklers can be tough since you want to focus on getting as much information out of it as possible. Unlike

DSLRs, phones don’t have an image stabilizer, so you’d do well to use a tripod or glif stand.

USE NIGHT MODE INSTEAD OF FLASH

When the light is low, you might be tempted to rely on the LED flash for better quality shots. Might not be the best solution! Just in case you didn’t know this already, LED lights can wash out colours and make the image look flat. So in order to preserve colours while taking these photos, it’s better to use available natural or ambient light whenever possible.

If your phone camera provides access to a 'Night mode' feature, you can employ it for capturing low-light scenes. Beware though, as this mode may slightly reduce image sharpness, but it effectively enhances brightness, making details more discernible

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SPORT resourcefulness and determination. My gymnastics club generously provided me with an old pommel horse, and we invested in other gymnastics equipment to set up a home gym. My training continued, uninterrupted.”

DEFYING GRAVITY

Vedant at his first national championships in 2021

How gymnastics became the ‘be all and end all’ His first international gymnastics event under his belt, Qld lad Vedant Sawant now has the Olympics in sight BY PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY

I

f there is one thing that Queenslander Vedant Sawant learned from his World Championships debut last month, it is the significance of mental fortitude in the face of an intense competition. When a 20,000-strong audience is watching you compete against 140 gymnasts at an elite level, the feeling of pressure can be an expected reaction.

Not for Vedant.

Rather, he used the international opportunity to measure his abilities “against gymnasts from diverse corners of the globe”.

The 20-year-old Australian National Pommel Horse Champion travelled to Belgium in September to stake his claim at the 52nd Artistic Gymnastics World Championships held in Antwerp. It was a qualification event for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Vedant narrowly missed securing a spot in the finals, standing at 11th place, but the experience fuelled his determination for the next season.

The goal is clear: to secure an Olympic spot, and bring home the gold.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Vedant, a Maharashtrian who spent his childhood years in Gujarat’s Baroda, was destined to enter the gymnastics world.

40 NOVEMBER 2023

In 2021, Vedant had three major surgeries on his foot. He took 11 months to fully recover. But it was also during this period that he broke a World Record for the most circles on a mushroom (1,057 to be exact).

This was when Vedant and his coach Jack Coates determined that he needed to focus on pommel horse. “It was the only apparatus capable of taking me where I wanted to go,” Vedant points out.

Also known as the side horse, the pommel horse routine involves a series of complex and highly coordinated movements, including swings, circles, flairs, and various forms of leg work.

Vedant became the National Pommel Horse Champion that year, the first Australian of Indian descent to do so.

Today, he sees the pommel horse everywhere, and cannot restrain himself.

A sturdy cushion-seat in the library. A spherical roadside divider. A postbox. A concrete seat by the road.

It’s the last thing he does before bed.

Is there anywhere this man won’t do circles, someone asks on his Instagram.

Clearly not!

It was time to go international.

“I earned the privilege to represent Australia in my first World Challenge Cup in August 2022, spanning Croatia, Slovenia, France, Hungary, and Turkey. Subsequent strong performances led to my selection for the FIG Artistic World Cup Series on February 23, 2023, across Germany, Qatar, and Azerbaijan.”

Following these events, he bagged the chance to compete at the World Championships in Belgium last month.

“The prospect of becoming an Olympian is a dream that has been a driving force in my gymnastics journey since my childhood days,” he says, adding, “The idea of representing myself, my country and my heritage, especially being the first IndianAustralian to do this, holds profound significance for me.”

First World Championships in Antwerp in September 2023

“I have vivid memories of spending time with my grandfather in the parks near our home,” he reminisces. “I would swiftly climb up coconut trees, and his face would fill with astonishment and joy just watching my agility.”

Sports wasn’t something that ran in his family. But his folks quickly noticed his strong reflexes, and knew he was destined for more.

Vedant’s athletic journey began with tennis at the tender age of 5, continuing till he turned 9. Between this, at age 6, Vedant moved to Australia with his parents.

A pivotal moment came during a day in a park when Vedant was casually doing chinups. “It was like a light-bulb moment for my mother,” he smiles. “She found a gymnastics class and enrolled me in it.”

Vedant was only 10.

UNWAVERING SPIRIT

It wasn't until Vedant set a specific goal for himself – to win medals at the interclub championships in 2015 – that things started to change.

By 2018, he was actively involved in training, trying new elements and pushing himself to new limits.

“There were moments of intense dedication; I remember finding myself stretching in the middle of the night, half-asleep, fuelled by an unwavering commitment to excel in gymnastics.

Gymnastics had become not just a sport for me, but the ‘be all and end all.’”

The Covid-19 pandemic was a significant turning point. It bought challenges as well as new opportunities.

“I created a makeshift mushroom out of an old car tyre, showcasing my

With coach Jack Coates

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IN MEMORIAM

Letters and cards from Bedi are carefully preserved in Kersi’s collection.

Bishan Singh Bedi

‘Come on, Kersi, bowl!’

A look back at an enduring cricket friendship

BY KERSI MEHER-HOMJI

T

he turbaned and bearded Bishan Singh Bedi died in October aged 77. Since much is already written on the passing of India’s champion spinner, I restrict myself to personal anecdotes here.

I had the pleasure of knowing Bishan Singh Bedi well for almost 50 years, exchanging phone calls, letters and emails.

Way back in 1971-72, South Africa’s tour of Australia was called off as the visiting nation refused to pull back its policy of apartheid. To replace this tour, an Aus V Rest of the World series was organised.

Sixteen games were played, including 5 tests.

The Rest of the World cricket team, with Gary Sobers as captain, included three Indians - left-arm spin wizard Bishan Bedi, consistent opening batsman Sunil Gavaskar, and flamboyant wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer.

Watching the World XI practice at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) nets, I became bold and invited the Indian players to my home in Sydney for Parsi food. They agreed and we had a lovely time together.

Friendliness and Bishan went hand in hand. I recall the Aussie spectators chanting “Baidi, Baidi” Aussie-style when he bowled, or even touched the ball when fielding.

42 NOVEMBER 2023

Bedi as he appeared on the cover of Indian Link in 2021

Later in 1977 in the Aus V Ind series, he was the inspiration behind India’s popularity, starting with the first Test in Brisbane. He took a wicket off the first ball he bowled in this Test.

I went to watch them practice at the SCG nets a day before their match against NSW. Spotting me on the sidelines, Bedi threw the ball at me, saying, “Bowl, Kersi.”

“What, me, bowl to Test cricketers?” I asked, in shock. “Yes, bowl, Kersi, bowl,” he repeated.

It became an experience I’ve never forgotten.

Bowling my inaccurate off-spinners and half-volleys to Indian Test batsmen, alongside spin wizards Bedi, BS Chandrasekhar and EAS Prasanna, was an incredible thrill.

Skipper Bedi had started weaving his leftarm spin magic on the opening day of the 1977 Brisbane Test by taking 5 for 55 as the Australians (weakened by their star players joining World Series Cricket) were bowled out for 166. India carried that momentum in the Sydney Test, Bedi and Chandrasekhar spinning out Australia for a paltry total of 131. It was a fascinating series.

Bedi’s career stats are pretty special. He took 266 wickets at an average of 28.71 in 67 Tests. He claimed 5 wickets in a Test innings 14 times. His best bowling in a Test innings was 7 for 98 against Australia at Eden Gardens, Kolkata in December 1969.

He retired in 1979 as India’s most prolific wicket-taker.

“His passion for the sport was unwavering

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A stadium tribute at the Aus V Netherlands game at New Delhi during the ongoing the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup match (AP Photo)

and his exemplary bowling performances led India to numerous memorable victories,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote this week on social media. “He will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.”

Known for his guile on the pitch and his blunt views off it, Bedi played Tests from 1967 to 1979. He became part of India's famous spin quartet that included mystery leg-spinner Bhagwat Chandrasekhar and offspinners Erapalli Prasanna and Srinivasan Venkataraghavan.

According to Ian Chappell, “The difference between Bishan Bedi and Prasanna in India was the former often resorted to trying to bore you out while the latter always attempted to bowl you out. Bish would often

place a strong off-side field and bowl at offstump turning away, making it difficult to score.”

Bedi led India in 22 Tests and controversially declared their second innings at Kingston protesting against intimidating bowling by the West Indians in 1976.

In a letter to me he wrote, “There were bumpers galore, three to four in an over. At lunch on the second day I asked the umpires if they could define intimidation. They had no answer. I could never forgive them for not doing their job honestly… With three of our batsmen badly injured, with one of them (Anshuman Gaekwad) nearly killed after being hit on the head, I couldn’t take it anymore and declared the innings.”

With Australian spinner Jason Krejza at a practice session in New Delhi in 2008 (AP Photo)

Bedi went on to coach India as well, and threatened to “dump the team into the sea” after disappointing results in 1990.

He always spoke his mind without fear or favour.

Even as a commentator, Bedi continued to speak against bowlers with dodgy actions, and called chucking a ‘bigger threat than illegal betting’. He also fought for transparency in cricket administration.

“Indian cricket has lost an icon today,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah wrote. “Bedi Sir defined an era of cricket and he left an indelible mark on the game with his artistry as a spin bowler.”

“He was a great cricketer and an even greater human being,” added historian

Ramchandra Guha. “He was a moral beacon for all those who knew him. He captained India with flair.”

According to H Natarajan in CricInfo, “The purity and perfection of Bedi’s art was a connoisseur’s dream. He was stealthy, silent and deadly; a master of deception who conjured variations in flight, loop, spin and pace without any perceptible change in action.

He bowled with a big heart too, challenging the batsman to hit over the top by giving the ball plenty of air, and was a consistent wickettaker for most of his career.”

He was forthright and outspoken throughout his playing career and inevitably courted controversies.

But I will remember him as a friend.

With other Indian captains at a BCCI event in 2006: (From left) M A K Pataudi, Chandu Borde, Mohammed Azharuddin, Bishan Bedi, S Venkataraghavan and Ajit Wadekar (AP Photo)

NOVEMBER 2023 43

TRAVEL

For adventure and activities galore, head north to Cairns

the viewing platform. Look out for wildlife including Tree Kangaroos - and on the day I was visiting, I saw a giant Cassowary.

On arrival in the village of Kuranda, visit the cafes, boutiques and markets which are open from Wednesday to Sunday. The markets showcase a variety of crafts and locally grown produce, including coffee, macadamia nuts and mango ice-cream. There are also attractions including Birdworld Kuranda where you can see 300 species of birds, and the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary.

At the historic Kuranda Railway Station, hop aboard one of the Victorian-era carriages of the Kuranda Scenic Railway, which has been in operation since 1891, and from here journey to the Cairns Central Railway Station.

BY PETRA O'NEILL

O

btaining a UNESCO World Heritage-listing is no easy feat, let alone two. But in far North Queensland, the 2,300km long Great Barrier Reef meets the Daintree, the world’s oldest tropical lowland rainforest, and Cairns makes the ideal base for your discovery.

CAIRNS

To get your bearings of the city, begin with a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade, a 2.5km foreshore walk. Here, enjoy the views of Trinity Inlet and the many public artworks, including sculptures in the Lagoon - a great place to swim and splash under the water fountains. You'll also find playgrounds, including Muddy's, with a flying fox, slides and a rope bridge to keep children entertained.

Around town, visit the Cairns Art Gallery, Aquarium, and BulmbaJa Art Centre showcasing contemporary indigenous art, and Rusty's market, a great place to sample local tropical fruit.

In the evening, visit the Cairns Night Market, where you can buy everything from Akubra hats to boomerangs.

Cairns is a multicultural city, 44 NOVEMBER 2023

THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

reflected in the wide range of dining options.

For great views, head to the Waterfront dining precinct. I ended my first night on a high note by joining a sunset dinner cruise with Spirit of Cairns for stunning views of the city skyline.

KURANDA

Start your day gliding high above the rainforest canopy for 7.5 km on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Get off along the way to join ranger led tours at Red Peak and Barron Falls to view the gorge and waterfall from

To snorkel among the giant clams, colourful coral, tropical fish and sea turtles of the Great Barrier Reef, you'll need to travel 2.5 hours from Cairns to reach the outer reef platform.

An alternative is to head for the islands, which are 45 minutes away.

Fitzroy Island offers walking tracks, golden sand beaches, and is surrounded by coral. I visited Green Island with Green Adventures –a tiny coral cay of just 12 hectares, which has a rainforest and white sandy beaches. I went snorkelling, viewed colourful tropical fish and coral from a glass bottomed boat, and joined Isaac Mingura of Wunyami Tours for a cultural walking tour to learn about the significance of Green Island to the local Indigenous people. Isaac was knowledgeable and engaging, a definite highlight of my trip.

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TRAVEL NOTEBOOK Getting there The Spirit of Queensland train travels 1681km from Brisbane to Cairns.

Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar all fly there. Keep an eye out for sales.

Getting around Hiring a car is the best way to explore or travel by private charter, such as Dragon Tours Limousines. A coach also operates between Cairns and Port Douglas.

Tour operators offer convenient pickups from your accommodation and a wide range of excursions from canyoning to white water rafting and are recommended for 4WD tours of the Daintree. Day cruises to the reef and islands depart from the Reef Fleet Terminal.

Where to stay Cairns is the perfect tourism destination. From backpackers to 5-star hotels, a wide range of accommodation is available to suit all budgets. Avoid school holiday periods when rates increase, and stay in the centre, as the city is spread out. Recommended hotels include the Doubletree by Hilton, Novotel, Crystalbrook and Shangri-La, with Palm Cove and Port Douglas offering stunning resorts including Peppers Beach Club and the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort.

Suggestions If intending to swim, avoid summer when marine stingers inhabit the seas. Before booking your day on the reef, check for favourable weather conditions and calm seas. Also, be sure to visit Tourism Tropical North Queensland for planning your trip.

PORT DOUGLAS AND THE DAINTREE

The spectacular drive north to Port Douglas along the coastline is rated as one of Australia’s most scenic drives, providing incredible views of the Daintree Rainforest and golden sand beaches. Take your time to explore these beaches including Holloways, Yorkey's, Clifton and the most well-known, Palm Cove.

On arrival in Port Douglas head up to Flagstaff Hill for breathtaking views across the Coral Sea and 4 Mile Beach, a broad expanse of palm fringed golden sand.

From a small fishing village, Port Douglas has grown into a sophisticated resort town with Macrossan Street offering beach chic boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It is such a beautiful place that you won't want to leave, which is why I recommend spending several nights here. The Great Barrier Reef and Daintree are also close by.

THE DAINTREE

Begin with Mossman Gorge, part of the traditional lands of the Kuku Yalanji people, a boulder strewn valley where water washes over ancient rocks and swimming holes provide a place for a refreshing dip.

After crossing the Daintree River by barge, you'll enter a pristine ancient landscape of old growth rainforest trees that stretches to Bloomfield Falls and Cape Tribulation.

SO MUCH MORE

After a week's sightseeing, there was still so much more to see. The Atherton Tablelands offers charming historic villages, fresh produce, markets, hikes, and waterfalls, while to the south is beautiful Mission Beach. Cairns is a destination that's geared to tourism, and it makes for an ideal short break.

NOVEMBER 2023 45

CINEMA

Against The Tide; director Sarvnik Kaur

APSA 2023: Indian film wins Best Documentary This is the second year in a row an Indian film has won in this category at the APSAs

T

wo Indian films have taken out honours at the 16th Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) held at the Gold Coast on 3 Nov. These include Best Documentary for Sarvnik Kaur’s Against the Tide, and the APSA Cultural Diversity Award for Rapture (Rimdogittanga), directed by Dominic Megam Sangma.

Against the Tide is based around two fishermen from different classes in Mumbai’s Koli community, one affluent and the other struggling, who both face the same challenges at sea as their environment changes. Filmed over six years, Sarvnik Kaur’s intimate documentary celebrates the durability of their relationship, despite their differences, through weddings, births and financial crises.

Besides the Special Jury Award of the Sundance Film Festival 2023, Against The Tide has a rich haul of awards, including the Sustainable Future Award at this year’s Sydney Film Festival.

This is the second year in a row an Indian film has bagged the Best Documentary award. Last year All That Breathes, directed

by Shaunak Sen, won this honour. It tells the story of two Delhi brothers dedicated to caring for wounded Black Kite birds amidst

Indian filmmaker Rima Das, Jury Member, with Anna Katchko, winner of Best Youth Film

mounting air pollution and violence in the city.

Rapture (Rimdogittanga), winner of this year’s APSA Cultural Diversity Award is a rare co-production between India and China, and is set in the hills of Meghalaya.

This Garo-language story explores the politics of fear in a north-east Indian village, where the community fears kidnapping and the church prophesises a period of apocalyptic darkness.

The award was accepted by four of the multi-country producers Xu Jianshang, Sun Li, Harsh Agarwal and Stephen Zacharias.

Well-known Indian film personality Rima Das, nominated in the best Director category for her film Tora’s Husband, as well as a jury member at this year’s awards, took home a grant valued at US$25,000, picked from over 120 submissions. It was one of four film grants offered by the APSA in connection with the Motion Picture Association.

Another nominee from India was To Kill a Tiger, directed by Indian-Canadian film maker Nisha Pahuja.

The Asia Pacific Screen Awards are presented by Asia Pacific Screen Academy.

Established in 2007, APSA honours the cinematic excellence and cultural diversity of the world’s fastest growing film region comprising 78 countries and areas, 4.5 billion people, and responsible for half of the world’s film output. For this year, guests and representatives from more than 20 countries attended the Red Carpet and Ceremony at Home of the Arts (HOTA) on the Gold Coast, Australia.

Films from 8 countries took home prizes at the annual event.

A gentle comedy about a toilet cleaner in Tokyo finding happiness in the everyday, Perfect Days won the Best Film Award. Evil Does Not Exist (Aku WaSonzai Shinai), also from Japan, won the prestigious Jury Grand Prize.

There have been remarkable Indian links at the APSAs over the years.

Besides All That Breathes, Gangs of Wasseypur (2012) and The Lunchbox (2013) both received the Jury Grand Prize in their respective years.

India has also won the award for Best Performance by an Actor multiple times: Manoj Bajpayee for Aligarh in 2016, Rajkumar Rao for Newton in 2017, Nawazuddin Siddiqui for Manto in 2018, and Manoj Bajpayee for Bhonsle in 2019.

The Rapture team claiming the Cultural Diversity Award; a still from the film

46 NOVEMBER 2023

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ENTERTAINMENT

cineTALK

Worth waiting for?

You decide!

What’s on SUHAYLA SHARIF’s watchlist this November 2023

TIGER 3 (In cinemas)

RAINBOW RISHTA (Prime Video)

Strap in everyone, the big cat of Hindi cinema’s spy universe is back! Salman Khan is ready to roar in what will no doubt be the blockbuster Bollywood film of November. Bhaijaan has also bought back combat queen Katrina Kaif for the next instalment of this explosive action franchise. Fingers crossed this sequel is just as power-packed as its predecessors!

Release Date: 12 Nov

Love transcends all bounds, including the colours that paint India’s vibrant cultures. This new docuseries is a candid exploration of queer love featuring incredible members of India’s LGBTQIA+ community. With familiar faces such as Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju and Aishwarya Ayushman, feel their love with this heartwarming flick.

Release Date: 7 Nov

THE RAILWAY MEN (Netflix) All aboard for this journey through a tragic night of twists and turns. Based on the events of the Bhopal Gas Disaster in 1984, the upcoming Hindi drama tells the story of four saviours who risk their lives to save a town quickly crumbling. Captaining this fourepisode series is a stellar cast of Kay Kay Menon, R. Madhavan, Babil Khan and Divyenndu.

Release Date: 18 Nov

TAKESHI’S CASTLE (Prime Video) The upcoming revival of this much-loved Hindi game show will be an absolute treat for ’90s kids. With funny man Bhuvan Bam on the commentator’s mic, relive the joy of the obstacle course that will see contestants turning and tumbling and have our giggles going once again!

Release Date: 2 Nov

JAPAN (In cinemas) If the name hasn’t thrown you off already, wait till you watch the movie. Tamil cinema star Karthi plays quirky crime master who leads the cops on a cat-andmouse chase. Does this thief have what it takes to weave his way out of trouble?

Release Date: 10 Nov

JIGARTHANDA DOUBLEX (In cinemas) The prequel to a Tamil blockbuster that promises another powerful punch! A jewel of Tamil cinema Jigarthanda has now had a retro rewind. Director Karthik Subbaraj is taking fans of the original film back in time as Raghava Lawrence and S. J. Suryah going head-to-head for this period action comedy.

Release Date: 10 Nov

MATRIMONIALS SEEKING BRIDES

SEEKING GROOMS

Australian PR 491, SC Ravidasia Chamar boy 1991 born, well-educated family from Doaba Punjab, 5'-5" pure vegetarian, M.Tech Chandigarh, MBA Sydney, Working as Admin officer in Sydney. Looking for a well-educated girl (preferable in Australia, Doaba, Student). Only SC Contact. Marriage bureau excuse. WhatsApp +61468994156, +919855475546, Email: target2050global@gmail.com

Indian origin, professionally qualified, issueless match (working professional, not self-employed) from Australia for ’88-born 5’3" Hindu Punjabi girl (divorced, issueless), working with a government organisation in Sydney. Must have Aus PR, be a non smoker and preferably teetotaler.Email: matrimonial.ml@gmail.com.

Suitable alliance for '90 born, 5’-6", never married, Hindu Punjabi, Auscitizen, IT professional, working with top IT company in Sydney. Seeking Sydney-based, Auscitizen, well-educated professional girl.

Email: Ray5552426@gmail.com

48 NOVEMBER 2023

Seeking a businessman or a professionally qualified settled boy (Australian citizen or PR holder only) for a never-married, permanent resident (Australia) Hindu-Khatri, 37 years old, 5’3” tall, fair and slim girl. She completed postgraduation in Australia and is working full time in the private sector in Melbourne. Open to relocate.

Email details at matrimonial.nu@gmail.com

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KHICHDI 2: MISSION PAANTHUKISTAN (In cinemas)

SAPTA SAGARADAACHE ELLO – SIDE B (In cinemas)

A beloved Indian serial is finally getting a sequel added to its franchise! Madness is the main ingredient for this Khichdi film as everyone’s favourite Gujarati family unites again for the Hindi comedy release. Take the family to catch this flick for a rib-tickling time together!

Release Date: 17 Nov

If you didn’t get the chance to watch Side A, do so now before heading to watch this Kannada romcom!

Manu and Priya’s turbulent love story is yet to fully unfold, and audiences can expect many more hurdles in their journey. Rakshit Shetty and Rukmini Vasanth are yet to wrap up their tale of star-crossed lovers so don’t miss the final serenade on their tape.

Release Date: 17 Nov

AADIKESHAVA (In cinemas) This adrenaline filled entertainer promises a thrilling ride into a turbulent town. Starring Vaishnav Tej and Sree Leela, this Telugu action drama sees its leads navigating a small town overflowing with trouble and also laced with love.

Release Date: 3 Nov

BRAND BOLLYWOOD DOWNUNDER (In cinemas)

AANKH MICHOLI (In cinemas) After a family of misfits find themselves in a mess, will love still be able to conquer all confusion? This Hindi comedy stars Mrunal Thakur and Abhimanyu Dasani having to untangle their families from their love story. Throw Paresh Rawal into the mix and you have the perfect recipe for comedic chaos.

Release Date: 3 Nov

P.I. MEENA (Prime Video)

Hindi cinema has cemented its place into our nation’s multicultural fabric – but where did Australia’s fascination for Bollywood begin?

Director Anupam Sharma presents his love letter to Bollywood from the audience down under. Mark your calendars for this picturesque homage that will have Aussie film buffs to saluting Hindi cinema.

Release Date: 1 Nov

Meet Meena, the super sleuth who has fallen down a rabbit hole of secrets, lies and surprises. Although all isn’t what it seems, she still is adamant to have this case closed before it becomes cold. Find your magnifying glass for this upcoming Hindi whodunnit series lead by Tanya Maniktala.

Release Date: 3 Nov

THE LADY KILLER (In cinemas)

AARYA SEASON 3 (Disney+Hotstar)

When romance clutches the reins of one man’s life, danger seems to also lurk around every corner. Arjun Kapoor stars opposite Bhumi Pednekar in a gripping Hindi drama that is plagued with more questions than answers. Be prepared to make your way through the maze of a mind littered with secrets.

Release Date: 3 Nov

Bollywood royalty Sushmita Sen is gracing screens once again as her empowering avatar Aarya Sareen.

The tale of the fierce fighter continues in this Hindi crime thriller series, now having to confront new enemies as well as familiar foes. Can this killer queen continue handling the weight of her crown?

Release Date: 3 Nov

APURVA (Disney+Hotstar) One woman will prove no amount of fear will ever flounder her spirit to survive. Tara Sutaria leads in this gritty Hindi thriller that also sees Abhishek Banerjee and Rajpal Yadav in roles you won’t recognise them in. Don’t miss this tale of tenacity that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Release Date: 15 Nov

FARREY (In cinemas) Just as our Year 12 students are wrapping up their final exams, one group of Delhi students are just beginning their hustle. Lead by another star from the Khan family, Alizeh Agnihotri is joined by a cast of new faces in this Hindi thriller release. Tangled in a web of schemes and conspiracies, these students will need more than money to manoeuvre their way out of misfortune.

Release Date: 24 Nov

LAKEEREIN (In cinemas) Danger is closer than you think as some find themselves trapped in twisted secrets kept behind closed doors. This upcoming Hindi legal drama will capture audiences in a story that shatters the confines of marriage. Will just be served for a victim forced to find solace in silence?

Release Date: 3 Nov

SARABHA (In cinemas) Presenting the untold story of Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, a freedom fighter whose name is etched into the tapestry of India’s history. Witness the undying spirit of one man determined to have his country be back in the hands of its people. This Punjabi period drama is a must-watch for those wanting to keep the legacy of India’s martyrs alive.

Release Date: 3 Nov NOVEMBER 2023 49

FOOD

Same same but

different!

GAURAV MASAND makes gentle tweaks to your Diwali treats

SAMOSA PINWHEELS Yes, we know samosa is best in its good old fashioned form. But have you tried making them as pinwheels?

INGREDIENTS: 2 frozen puff pastry sheets (makes 10 pinwheels) with 2 pastry sheets. n Each sheet is approx 25 cm x 25 cm FOR FILLING: n 2 tbsp oil n 1 small onion, chopped n 1/2 tsp mustard seeds, optional n 1 tsp ginger, grated n 2 medium potatoes boiled,peeled and cubed n 1 tsp curry powder or any other seasoning of choice. n Salt to taste n 2 tbsp green peas frozen/fresh n

METHOD: For filling: Warm up the oil in a skillet.

Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.

Add chopped onions and ginger. Cook

until they become pink over medium heat.

Add curry powder, salt, and any other spices as per your taste. Cook for a few minutes.

Mix well by adding potatoes.

Add peas and mix well. Cook covered for 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.

For pinwheels: Allow the frozen pastry sheets to thaw for 5 minutes, then spread the filling on one sheet.

Place a pastry sheet on top of the filling.

Cut the filled sheets into approximately 8-10 strips using a knife or pizza cutter.

Roll each strip into a pinwheel and set it aside.

Set the air fryer to preheat at 190 C for 5 minutes. Put the pinwheels in the air fryer basket.

Spray oil on the pinwheels and air fry them at 190°C for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.

Serve with a tomato sauce of your choice, or store-bought samosa sauce.

ROASTED LENTILS Lentils are full of protein and yet the most underrated ingredient in the pantry.

Roasted lentils are an easy snack to make in your air fryer.

INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup red lentils with skin, also called French lentils n 1 cup water n 1 tsp oil n Salt to taste n 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or any seasoning of your choice

G U LA

B

JA

M U N

IC E

C R EA

M

n

METHOD: Allow lentils to soak in cold water for 4-6 hours, then drain.

Heat 1 cup of water in a big pot on the stove.

Boil lentils for 4-5 minutes, then drain.

Preheat the airfryer 180 C for 5 minutes.

Toss the lentils with oil.

Place a layer of lentils on the crisping tray or parchment paper.

Cook for 8-10 minutes at 180 C, making sure to mix 2-3 times.

When finished, set it aside on a paper towel.

Add the spices and mix well. Store in an airtight container upon cooling.

50 NOVEMBER 2023

Hot gulab jamun with cold vanilla ice cream is a classic combination, you’ll agree. Here’s a special way to incorporate the two into one delicious dessert.

INGREDIENTS: 500 ml vanilla ice cream n ¼ cup full fat milk n 1/4 tbsp rose water extract n 4-5 numbers gulab jamun n Dried rose petals for garnish n 2-3 pistachios crushed for garnish. n

METHOD: Combine the vanilla ice cream and milk in a blender.

Pulse for a few seconds, but don't run it for too long.

Place 1-2 gulab jamuns into the blender. Blend again for a few seconds.

Put the contents into a container.

Cut the rest of the gulab jamuns into small, bite-sized pieces, and gently mix into ice cream blend.

Pour into ice cream container, then freeze for 4-6 hours.

To serve, garnish with crushed pistachios and dried rose petals.

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BACKCHAT

Obsessed!

ASK AUNTYJI Do you have a question for Auntyji?

Email it to info@indianlink.com.au

DEAR AUNTYJI

We live in an extended household with my parents-in-law. They are fairly young and lovely people.

My MIL is only 53 years - and she still has an important job at a bank. MIL works from home 2 days a week and is super organised - both at home and at work. Sometimes I hear her on the phone and I get impressed by how she brings her team together to give them ideas and execute on those.

She is always coming up with new ideas for her work. But here is what she does that I am not too happy about. Sometimes after any one of us cleans the kitchen, she will come and do a once-over.

The thing is, we do our best to make the kitchen spotless, but there she is, wiping down the fridge or the cupboard handles etc. My FIL asked her why she does this, and she says cleaning gives her ideas. Sometimes she even goes so far as vacuuming in the middle of the day because she insists it gives her new ideas. And in her role at work, she does seem to solve problems in creative ways. It irritates me that MIL cleans the kitchen after I do. Surely I have done a good enough job, don’t you think? Or does she think that only she can clean the kitchen to an acceptable standard.

Now in all fairness, she does not complain or say anything about our cleaning standards, and sometimes I can’t see the difference after she has cleaned up, but goodness, Auntyji, this really irritates me. I think she is OCD. What to do?

AUNTYJI SAYS

Arre kalmouhi. This is the thing you choose to get cranky about? What kind of a jahil are you that you choose not to see what is going on here?

Here you have a MIL who still has a corporate job and she does not give you grief - and you are getting upset because she vacuums in the middle of the day and wipes the cupboard handles? You are truly a nit-picking bahu who does not deserve such a saas. First things first.

It appears to me that MIL gets into her zone when she cleans. And she is thorough - quite possibly, more thorough than all of you. But the fact that she has not pointed out that you guys do a half-baked job of cleaning, and she just starts doing it anyway, means that she is actually using this time to think. So, here is what you can do. Next time, when she has cleaned up after your attempt, ask her what ideas she has had. I suspect she will relate to you the insights that blossomed. You will very quickly realise that she cleans not because you have done a lousy job (although that is highly likely because you come across as someone who cuts corners) but because the cleaning ritual allows her time to contemplate new ideas, or maybe even it relaxes her or maybe she is working on being a better human. Perhaps you too can do the same.

Next time you have a trivial irritation like this getting your goat, I recommend you pull out the vacuum, and as you clean, assess the problem in your head. Use that time to maybe learn to think more charitably about others, or how to do something better. And learn gratitude. You are indeed blessed. Living with your in-laws can be tricky, but if the worst thing in your household is that your MIL cleans up after your attempt, and she does not do this to irritate you but because she needs the downtime to think, then you are indeed blessed. Let the woman have her weird habit, you shaitaan ki nani. And stop obsessing about chhoti chhoti bathein like this.

VICTORIA’S CONTAINER DEPOSIT SCHEME

VICTORIA’S CONTAINER DEPOSIT SCHEME HAS STARTED Now you can recycle eligible drink containers for a 10c refund What can I return?

Most aluminium, glass, plastic and carton drink containers between 150mL and 3 litres are eligible, including lids.

Check for the 10c mark

10c

It is often located near the barcode.

For more information visit cdsvic.org.au

NOVEMBER 2023 51

FORETELL

November 2023

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

The moon card implies a change and events coming to a natural end.

Expectations of a relationship working out will not materialise. Conflicts at work require inner self control over confrontation. Be wary of those you think are capable of deception. An upsetting piece of news concerning a family member could come your way.

Don’t lend money or you might not get all of it back. In a rocky relationship, one partner could be having a clandestine affair.

Aquarian energy this month makes the Taurean even more practical.

However, now is a good time to invest in humanitarian causes dear to your heart as the Queen of Pentacles card indicates help, possibly from an Aquarian. New age healing techniques might fascinate you. Singles could meet someone very unusual. Money starts to come in which leads to other positive events. Detox and cleanse your chakras if you can. Things will work out better than expected and sooner than you thought possible.

A time to harvest some of your hard work. An unexpected opportunity will bring financial gains. The self-employed might want to start a new business or an old one will help raise your income. In a personal relationship, you might move in with your partner.

Avoid binge eating and drinking to cope with emotions. Someone you meet will help you increase business. Accept opportunities that come your way.

Unexpressed resentments and other such feelings will wither away.

Cancerians could face problems on all fronts – relationship, career and property matters. A budding relationship will disappoint. Some of you could lose your job due to a severe ailment or disagreement. A trip for health reasons is on the agenda, as is overseas travel for some. Watch out for stomach problems or headaches; they need medical attention. Money is tight but more is on the way. The completion of a cycle is foretold with the resolution of a problem.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

JULY 21 - AUG 22

AUG 23 - SEP 22

SEP 23 - OCT 22

OCT 23 - NOV 21

An ex could make a comeback in the lives of some. The scenario at home could get tense making you cranky. Paperwork will keep you busy. In a relationship, unexpected disagreements could come up due to dishonesty. Family fights will get resolved. Those looking for a job should look at the communications or teaching fields for success. Take action so you stay detached from problems. Believe that the universe knows what it is doing and it is in your best interest.

A difficult month as you run into problems, self-doubt and possible infidelity. A possible loss of a job is also foretold. Colleagues and seniors too could add to your problems.

A marriage could hit a rough patch due to misunderstanding. If you have any health issue, seek medical help. Remove any feelings of lack within you regarding money.

The universe responds to energy and a feeling of abundance will send more your way. Despite problems, some of you could land a promotion.

A major arcana indicates a pre-destined event so go with the flow if things happen that are not in your control. If dating, singles might want to rethink going forward due to the other person’s attitude. A short trip will be beneficial to your career. Use your judgement to make any major decisions. Take medical advice for any heart related issues.

If you receive an offer for a job or a business, grab it, as it is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

While you wait for things to progress, it would help focussing your attention on other issues, as a watched pot never boils. Work on removing the anxiety that has risen due to this situation. Singles won’t still meet anyone promising. If they do receive a proposal, they will remain unsure. A disinterested attitude could hint at underlying depression. Seek alternative remedies to help with anxiety or exhaustion. Be patient for outcomes to change in your favour.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 18

PISCES

FEB 19 - MARCH 20

Some of you might have to introspect on what you need to hold on to and what needs to go. An offer proves to be a blessing; this could be in your personal or professional life. The self-employed will see a rise in their business. Singles need not rush to take the relationship to the next level, take it slow. Watch out for addiction if you know someone who is bingeing too much.

Various resources to make money will be available.

A major arcana, this time the Death card which does not literally mean death. It usually implies a change from the old way of living, a death of beliefs that no longer serve you and growth after a cycle ends. A rocky relationship could come to an end. Expect challenges and obstacles to crop up at work. Some of you may want to change homes. A sudden loss of income too could happen.

A lost cause will be revived to your benefit soon.

A mixed bag as a cycle nears completion, unpredictable changes, and illnesses.

Yet, an inheritance or other sources and new ideas lead to monetary gains and career growth. A rocky marriage could break due to infidelity or one’s career.

Some of you may experience bouts of depression and tummy issues. All the downturns of the past now lead to a positive outlook for the future. Spiritual guidance is predicted, and a setback is a chance to grow from within.

It is a month to let go or make sacrifices to move ahead. Those in a relationship need to express themselves to prevent a build up of unresolved issues. An event will change your perspective about everything around you. Some of you may have a windfall; others might find expenses mounting. If you have any irritation in your eyes, have them checked to rule out infections. It is a month to break out of old patterns and respond differently.

NOV 22 - DEC 21

52 NOVEMBER 2023

DEC 22 - JAN 19

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NOVEMBER 2023 53

FROM YOUR TEAM IN THE SOUTH EAST

Gabrielle Williams MP

STATE MEMBER FOR CARRUM

16 Princes Highway, Dandenong VIC 3175

622 Nepean Highway, Carrum VIC 3197

9793 2000

9773 2727

gabrielle.williams@parliament.vic.gov.au

WilliamsforDandenong

gabriellewilliams.com.au

Tim Richardson MP

STATE MEMBER FOR MORDIALLOC

Pauline Richards MP

Sonya Kilkenny MP

STATE MEMBER FOR DANDENONG

STATE MEMBER FOR CRANBOURNE Shops A3 & A4, Marriott Waters Shopping Centre, cnr Thompsons Rd & Marriott Bvd, Lyndhurst VIC 3975

sonya.kilkenny@parliament.vic.gov.au

5996 2901

SonyaKilkennyMP

pauline.richards@parliament.vic.gov.au

PaulineRichardsMP

Meng Heang Tak MP

Emma Vulin MP

STATE MEMBER FOR CLARINDA

STATE MEMBER FOR PAKENHAM

paulinerichardsmp.org

Gary Maas MP

STATE MEMBER FOR NARRE WARREN SOUTH

374 Nepean Hwy, Chelsea VIC 3196

Level 1, 1312 Centre Road, Clayton South VIC 3169

Suite 3, 445 Princes Highway, Officer VIC 3809

Shop 24, 166 Somerville Rd, Hampton Park VIC 3976

9772 4544

9543 6081

9651 8254

8783 6959

tim.richardson@parliament.vic.gov.au

richardson4mordialloc

timrichardsonmp.com.au

mengheang.tak@parliament.vic.gov.au

mengheangtakmpforclarinda

Belinda Wilson MP STATE MEMBER FOR NARRE WARREN NORTH

mengheangtak.org.au

emma.vulin@parliament.vic.gov.au

emmavulinmp

Michael Galea MP

STATE MEMBER FOR SOUTH EASTERN METROPOLITAN REGION

@emmavulinmp

gary.maas@parliament.vic.gov.au

GaryMaasNWS

Lee Tarlamis MP

STATE MEMBER FOR SOUTH EASTERN METROPOLITAN REGION

Shops 101 & 102, Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre, Matthew Flinders Avenue, Endeavour Hills VIC 3802

141 Westall Road, Clayton South VIC 3169

16 Princes Highway, Dandenong VIC 3175

9706 0566

7501 8688

9793 2000

MichaelGaleaALP

belinda.wilson@parliament.vic.gov.au

belindawilsonvic

54 NOVEMBER 2023

belindawilson.com.au

michael.galea@parliament.vic.gov.au @MichaelGaleaMP

@garymaasmp

LeeTarlamisMP

lee.tarlamis@parliament.vic.gov.au leetarlamismp.com.au

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NOVEMBER 2023 55

56 NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 2023 2023

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