2023-12 Sydney

All things Indian. In Australia.

SYDNEY

DECEMBER 2023

Vol. 31 No. 3

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NIKHIL AUTAR 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year

From surviving cancer to saving lives

OVER 150 FREE AND TICKETED EVENTS

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DECEMBER 2023 3

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If you drive faster than the speed limit, you’re breaking the law and could face serious legal penalties or lose your licence.

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EDITORIAL All things Indian. In Australia.

PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra ASSISTANT EDITOR Nadine Silva CONTRIBUTORS Torsha Sen, Lakshmi Ganapathy, Suhayla Sharif, Bedashree Gogoi, Vivek Asri, Vya Pulavorty, Sriraman Annaswamy, Geeth Geeganage, Gaurav Masand, Prutha Chakraborty, Ritam Mitra, Minal Khona, LP Ayer, Auntyji 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

And the Person (Thing) of the Year is...

I

t has dominated headlines almost daily, forced us all to adjust our lifestyles, and been a global phenomenon. There is not a country in the world that is not fighting it. At social gatherings, we shake our heads and say it out loud: Inflation.

At the end of a tumultuous year, Indian Link picks Inflation as the issue that has most affected us. No, it was not a politician, sports star or influencer who dominated our lives in 2023. Even Macquarie Dictionary’s choice for word of the year, 'Cozzie livs' (for cost of living), is a reference to this vexing issue.

In other accolades, we have the Traveller of the Year award – going to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who visited 18 countries (including the US three times and India twice). Mr Albanese had three close and meaningful interactions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Two of these were in bilateral visits to each other’s countries – which will be remembered as much for the boost to relations as for the stunning visuals of floral showers, golden chariots and a couple of packed stadiums. The third was during the G20 hosted by India.

Closer to home here in Australia, the most anticipated event of the year went

on to break many hearts. The referendum for a First Nations Voice to Parliament divided the community and was exploited well by Peter Dutton and the team leading the No campaign. A bipartisan opportunity to show strength in our collective community's goodwill was not to be. While Dutton may have won the battle, time will tell if he has lost the war for leading the country at the next federal election in 2025. The Spoiler of the Year award has to go to Peter Dutton.

And this brings us to leading Australia in sport. Walt Whitman’s 1865 poem 'O Captain! My Captain!' extolled the virtues of assassinated US President Abraham Lincoln. In a happier mode, the captain who led 10 men in green and gold, Pat Cummins, captured our hearts and minds. In a hugely successful year he brought home three trophies: the Ashes, the ICC World Test Championship, and most recently, the ICC Cricket World Cup. Pat Cummins is our Sports Hero of the Year.

Our Trend of the Year Award goes to the corporate take-up of the Hindu Festival of Lights, Diwali. The small-scale celebrations of decades ago grew from local community halls to melas (fairs) in stadiums, then began to include the mainstream on city streets and central

sites. Now, they’ve extended to the board rooms. Major banks such as ANZ and Westpac, government organisations such as Transport NSW and Sydney Water, and many schools and universities have all taken to lighting their own lamps at Diwali. It helps bring a bit of lustre in these dark times as we reflect on the triumph of humanity and truth over darker forces.

Scientific Achievement of the Year Award will have to go to India’s moon mission Chandrayaan-3. On August 23, India became the fourth nation ever to land a spacecraft on the moon (following Russia, USA and China), and notably, the first ever to touch its South Pole. That it did so with the smallest ever budget is also cause for admiration: the Indian Space Research Organisation launched the project in 2020 with just US$75 million, and reached fruition successfully.

Such was the pride on this achievement that the Ganesh Festival, which came only weeks after, was replete with Chandrayaan mentions in the worship and decorations, even here in Australia.

We now look to the next festive season to bask in the warmth of Christmas.

Heading in to 2024, on behalf of all at Indian Link, I wish you health and happiness, peace and harmony.

DECEMBER 2023 5

CONTENTS SPECIAL FEATURES

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20

28

30

14

TRIBUTE Farewelling Dr GK Harinath

SPECIAL FEATURE

Worth reading again: Our pick of stories from 2023

18

NOSTALGIA

Look what we found while leafing through some old Indian Link issues

20 28

FOOD

Gulab jamuns three ways

SPORT

COVER STORY NIKHIL AUTAR NSW Young Australian of the Year 2024

30

Lessons from ICC World Cup 2023

10

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29 DECEMBER 2023 7

YOUR SAY VICTORIAN PRINCIPALS IN INDIA FOR GOVT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

VALE Dr. GK HARINATH OAM As news came in of the passing of the trailblazing Indian community leader, the tributes flowed in from the various sectors in which his contributions were substantial.

Joseph La Posta wrote: Our world has farewelled a thoroughly decent and kind man. Many of us have lost a generous friend and trusted advisor. Vale Dr Hari and rest in peace. Sending love and hugs to Gayathri, Neeta and Vikram and their families.

Patrick Farhart wrote: Very sad news indeed. Dr Hari did an amazing amount for cricket and the Indian diaspora in New South Wales and Australia.

More importantly, he was extremely kind, and very good to anyone he came into contact with. I owe him a huge debt of gratitude. May he Rest in Peace.

Shantha Viswanathan wrote: How very, very shocking and sad!! Our heartfelt condolences and our thoughts and prayers are with the family. We only met him a few weeks ago and he looked so well. Om Shanti.

Vinod Daniel wrote: Sad news. He had contributed significantly to multiculturalism and Aust India relationship and leaves a lasting legacy.

Jodi McKay wrote: My heart is heavy with this news.

Victor Duranti wrote: A great inspiration to all who value and cherish our multicultural NSW. May you rest in peace.

Nadeem Ahmed wrote: Deepest condolences on the passing of Dr. GK Harinath, a true community leader and former Chair of Multicultural NSW. His legacy as a stalwart will forever be remembered. May he rest in peace.

Pino Migliorino AM wrote: Have known Dr Harri for many years. His gentle smile and lived wisdom so welcome. I will miss him. Vale Dr Harri.

Manish Gupta wrote: Extremely sad to hear. A great support and stalwart of the Indian-Australian community, we will remember Dr Harinath for his warmth and friendship. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this hour of grief. May God give enough strength to Gayatriji and family to bear this loss. Om Shanti.

Dipen Rughani wrote: Very sad news indeed. I had visited Dr Harinath last week and spoke with him regularly. He was an advisor, mentor and dear friend. A stalwart in the community, he set the path for many to follow, much loved by all he came into touch with. Dr Harinath will be missed terribly. My thoughts and prayers are with Gayathri and family. May he Rest in Peace.

Pawan Luthra wrote: A real trailblazer for the Indian community who was an inspiration to all. You will be very much missed for your wise counsel, friendship, passion for cricket and kindness to all.

Darshan Sachdev wrote: I knew Dr Harry for a long time. He was a very nice and genuine man. May his soul rest in peace. My most sincere condolences to his family. He will be missed.

Stuart Ayres wrote: Wonderful man, exceptional leader, kind soul. We will miss him dearly. Amazing contribution to our State and Nation.

Rajni Luthra wrote: Friend. Philosopher. Guide. Quiet operator. Deep connector. You will be sorely missed, Hari. Thank you for your friendship and all you’ve done for harmony and inclusion, not only in your professional capacity but in your daily life too. Om Shanti.

MultiConnexions Group wrote: Will be deeply missed, someone who represented the true spirit of multiculturalism in Australia.

Earl Eddings wrote: Very sad to hear the passing of Harry a wonderful man who did so much for cricket. I had the great privilege of serving with the “Doc” on the CA board. A man of great humour, compassion. Will be truly missed. R.I.P Doc. Dr Naveen Shukla, K.V. Rajagopal, Amit Vyas, Pritesh Parmar, Charu Hurria, Chetan Kusumgar, Pranav Shah, Nalin Sharda, Amit Pall, Livingston Chettipally, Ajaz Ali Khan, Kiran Jassal, Yogesh G Dossa, Ramesh V Morkhandikar, AASHA, Thomas De Souza, Mohit Kumar, Sandip Hor, Anagan Babu Ramia Janardhanan, Little India Australia, Herman Singh Lotey, Tila Gera-Popat, Sheetal Challam, Yadu Singh, Pradeep Timalsina, Milind Oza, Chennupati Jagadish AC, Shobha Sharma, Jyoti Dogra, Atri Bose, Simon Kaleski, Craig Sheridan, Hitesh Kaplish, Ross Hawkey, Rajeev I., Shailendra Sawleshwarkar, Tamanna T, Deepak Kumar, Indu Ponnusamy, Gunjan Pagare and Karen Collier also wrote messages of condolence.

8 DECEMBER 2023

Twelve school principals from India and Australia undertook a groundbreaking cultural exchange program funded by the Victorian Government, reported LAKSHMI GANAPATHY Veena Nair wrote: I hope they also visit some schools in low SES areas like those in Dharavi in Mumbai. Some real innovation takes place in response to challenges faced by schools there.

Tania Sorbello wrote: Spending time with vocational educational leaders through the 2023 Women in School Leadership Program has left me inspired and energised. What I thought was going to be a Venn diagram exploration of the similarities and differences between the Australian and Indian education systems, soon revealed itself to be an overlapping circle, as we explored the deep commonalities we share as we strive to improve the academic and personal and social outcomes for the children entrusted in our care. Looking forward to the next steps of undertaking a collaborative action research project with my Indian partner principal, Asha Prabhakar. My deepest gratitude for the honour of representing the Victorian Department of Education and the Asia Education Foundation. The Women in School Leadership (WISL) Program is an initiative by the Victorian Department of Education developed and delivered by the Asia Education Foundation in partnership with The AI Institute and Melbourne Graduate School of Education at the University of Melbourne for the online workshops and with NPSC India and Jindal Global University for the India Immersion Experience.

Sharon Armstrong wrote: I absolutely love that Venn diagram analogy, Tania Sorbello! Can't wait to hear more about your experience of the WISL program so far and the outcomes of your collaborative action research project when completed.

So much valuable learning to be shared across our education systems.

Tom Nicknish wrote: Tania Sorbello, it's wonderful to hear about your experience and collaboration in the Women in School Leadership Program.

How do you envision this collaboration impacting educational outcomes for both Australian and Indian students?

THE UNBELIEVABLE STORY OF CHARAN DASS LAKSHMI GANAPATHY wrote about the life and times of a 75-year-old ex-Indian Army migrant to Australia who has had a colourful career despite no formal education Brigid McCarthy wrote: Wow, what an impressive human he is. Nice story, Lakshmi.

Nalin Sharda wrote: Yes, he is a very good example for other seniors. Thanks for sharing the story of Shri Charan Dass who proves that age is just a number. Lifelong learning and turning it into action is the key to being a healthy senior.

Dr. Ashima Soni wrote: Amazing - what a great inspiration. Unbelievable. As it is rightly said, “Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul”.

Ankita Suthar wrote: Thanks for sharing this. What an inspiration he is.

We should be proud of our contributions to the community and the world we live in. Learning is important, be it via formal or informal education. Thanks Lakshmi, for bringing his story to us.

Heli D wrote: My salute to this man.

Lauren Treloar wrote: That was so good. Charan is a straight up LEGEND. Laxmi Ananthanarayan wrote: In earlier days I used to subscribe to and read Reader’s Digest which was full of such human interest stories demonstrating extraordinary qualities which would emerge in dire situations in otherwise ordinary persons. The story of Charan Dass reminded me of that.

Rajiv Iyer wrote: This was a really nice read. Well written. And also a great human interest story. Keep it up Lakshmi!

Charan Dass wrote: Oh my god Lakshmi, you have done awesome job….Very very many thanks for writing my biography avidly, so precisely and eloquently.

Your expressions were so impressive, strong wordings in writing is amazing.

OPENING LINES We asked, of which Indian novel is this the opening line: It was seven o'clock of a very warm evening in the Seeonee hills when Father Wolf woke up from his day's rest, scratched himself, yawned, and spread out his paws one after the other to get rid of the sleepy feeling in their tips.

Is it: A) The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling B) Raghu Rai’s India by Raghu Rai C) The Maneater of Malgudi by RK Narayan Readers Jyoti Dogra, Deepa Matta got the correct answer: A.

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NSW YOUNG AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

ON TURNING 30

NADINE SILVA catches up with Nikhil Autar, medical student, cancer survivor, social entrepreneur Nive Autar wrote: Love your work Nikhil Autar. Super proud of this achievement. Looking forward to seeing you continue to contribute to the make the world around us more equitable Niyati Libotte wrote: Congratulations Nikhil, you are truly an inspiration and have already done so much to improve healthcare and equity. Can’t wait to see what you achieve next!

Klaus Bartosch wrote: Not even remotely surprised by this recognition Nikhil Autar!!

Ok ok, maybe just a little! Well done mate!! Bask in it for a little while longer …. Then back to it!

There is little doubt in my mind that this was the last thing Nikhil Autar imagined would ever happen in his life. To say the last decade of his life has been tough is to grossly understate it. I’m so proud of my friend, his incredible courage and repeated ability to pick himself up from the deepest of lows. Resilience = Nikhil Autar. To have known his dad is, well, a total privilege. Wonderful young man.

Beautiful family. Congratulations mate on this incredible recognition!!

Mahesh Enjeti wrote: Congratulations, Nikhil! That is really awesome.

I also discovered that Nikhil means whole, complete, without limits. Your diverse accomplishments suggest you are a rare avatar, Nikhil Autar.

Sherman M wrote: Nikhil Autar, well deserved. I still clearly remember his pitch of BheemSense to us mentors and judges at CSIRO ON accelerator. Indian Link Media Group, thank you sharing this inspirational story to a wider audience.

Jayshree Sawant wrote: Such an inspiration !!! "From Sydney's skyline to the red soil of the outback, every migrant's story adds a new brushstroke to the canvas of Australia." Exciting Journey, from doctor to advocate! From battling cancer to emerging as a beacon of hope, Nikhil Autar has defied the odds. A doctor, excancer patient, founder, writer and speaker, NSW Young Australian of the Year, Founder BheemHealth, his journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Edwin Santiago wrote: Nikhil Autar wow wow wow! Well deserved! I am sooo proud to know you! You’re such an inspiration to all of us!

Sheba Nandkeolya wrote: ‘As a migrant, Education is the best equaliser’.

Congratulations Nikhil Autar you could not have summarised it better. What a wonderful migrant story of hope, love, perseverance, grit and optimism despite all odds against Nikhil. And finally, his deep-rooted respect for his parents and wanting to make his late father proud of him is truly inspiring. Wishing all heath, happiness and more success to young Nikhil during this Diwali season. Great capture, thank you Indian Link Media Group.

Jodi McKay wrote: You’re inspirational Nikhil Autar. Well deserved and I can’t wait to see what you conquer next.

Mahernaz Bengalli wrote: Congratulations Nikhil. You clearly show that anything is possible to achieve with dedication!

Anil Wadhawan wrote: Congratulations Nikhil. Proud of you. Keep up the noble work.

Mark McKenzie Nikhil, you are an absolute inspiration to us all, superstar…and congrats to your awesome Mum Nive for raising such a wonderful human being! MM Vijay Jadhav wrote: Tons of Congratulations to both of you Nikhil Autar and Nive Autar. All the very best for your future. May god bless you and your family with all the success and happiness you deserve.

Suzanne Lombardo wrote: Wow what an amazing young man. He will go far not just because he is smart but the fact that he has so much empathy for people that haven’t been as lucky. I think Australia really was the lucky country to get him and his family as migrants. Congratulations to him (and his Mum).

Anshul Mangla wrote: What a proud day for you Nikhil and for you Nive. Such an inspiring story and a memorable event for the Autar family!

Vimal Maharaj, Rajesh Padnakar, Alka Jaggi Singh, Timothy James, Dhanya Samuel, Lokesh Verma and Rohit Narayan also wrote notes of congratulations.

GEETH GEEGANAGE thought his life would look different at age 30, but this milestone has given him cause for reflection Stephen Bali MP wrote: Happy Birthday Geeth Geeganage on turning 30. Whilst most people would still be partying (either celebrating the milestone or finally realising they are getting old), Geeth decided to pen (or whatever the modern social media equivalent term is) a literary piece reflecting on what it means turning 30. Geeth, you are far too modest in not mentioning all the politicians, community organisations and countless people that you have helped as well as your working life achievements. Congratulations on your achievements and I know there is much more to come!

Alex Snell wrote: "Geeth Geeganage with two kids that aren’t his. They’re his cousins." I audibly laughed. Very good write up, thanks for sharing this.

Jonathan James wrote: Thoughtful and considered, as always. Nice to read your reflections about your (I'm sure very proud) parents.

Lyndsey Jackson wrote: Lol you are funny. Labradors are not all they are cracked up to be! You keep on truckin' and have a fabulous year or being 30.

Humairaa Haque wrote: “His definition of “nowhere” would be other people’s “somewhere”. And other people’s “somewhere”, could be another person’s “destination”. Love this!

Jan Rooney wrote: Happy belated 30th birthday, Geeth! You are a young man going places, and I am a firm believer that life takes you where you are meant to go. Can’t wait to keep watching your journey!

Chamira Gamage wrote: A great write up. Definitely a time for reflection and gratitude for where the journey has led you so far. But as always, it’s only the beginning.

Anjali De Silva wrote: Great read, Geeth! Well said! Will be joining the 30 club soon!

Casie Scott wrote: I felt exactly the same at 30. There are two sayings that I love: “Nothing that is meant for you will pass you by”. “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans”. You are exactly where you are meant to be. So many exciting chapters are yet to unfold.

Prina Hagege wrote: A great read, Geeth! Certainly written by someone definitely going somewhere.

WHERE IN OZ This stadium is one of the world’s most iconic cricket grounds. It was built in 1848 and played host to the legendary Don Bradman during his record-breaking 452 not out. Where in Oz? The answer is Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Sunil Coelho, Maurya Morya, Parul Amin and Shashank S Singh got it right.

SCANLON INSTITUTE REPORT ON SOCIAL COHESION IN AUSTRALIA The Scanlon Foundation’s annual social cohesion report shows social cohesion is strained, but support continues for multiculturalism, LAKSHMI GANAPATHY wrote.

Kate Jeffery wrote: As the article states, "... multiculturalism is still a work in progress, with 50 per cent of Indian-born respondents having experienced discrimination in the last 12 months". But it is important that such a high percentage of Indian-Australians feel as a sense of belonging in their neighbourhoods. That would be influenced by the high level of Indian community activity which is also mentioned in the article. The work has to continue on broader social and economic equity and inclusion.

Navanita Bhattacharya asked: What’s the demographics of these neighbourhoods?

Scanlon Foundation Research Institute wrote: Thanks for the coverage and for your great work

WHERE IN INDIA This stadium has eight different stands - Sunil Gavaskar Stand, North Stand, Vijay Merchant Stand, Sachin Tendulkar Stand, MCA Stand, Vitthal Divecha Stand, Grand Stand and Garware Stand. Where in India is this cricket stadium?

The answer is Wankhede stadium, Mumbai.

Meena Sunder, Nilam Patel, Shashank S Singh, Megha Vaghela Parmar, Chitra Iyer, Bhamini Sampath, Augustine Jiljilmary, Sweta Shah, Narender Rana, Dreaming Leo, Heli D and Surya Prahasith got it right.

DECEMBER 2023 9

COVER STORY His first device, BheemUP, allows any bed to convert into a hospital bed.

He’s now developing BheemSense, the world’s first sensor mat that tracks sleep phases and helps minimise pressure sores to keep people safer at home or in nursing homes for longer.

“The idea is that it can detect pressure sores and if someone’s at risk of falling, it can alert nurses or loved ones. Because, even in hospitals, there’s no way of knowing if someone’s safe at any point unless you’ve got them in a high monitoring unit.”

BUILDING ‘THE GOOGLE MAPS OF ACCESSIBILITY’

Meet Nikhil Autar

2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year BY NADINE SILVA

M

edical student Nikhil Autar has been named the 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year.

Nikhil has been recognised for his work on social enterprises and charities including BheemHealth, Knia Maps and Doctors Against Violence.

He is also a nominee for 2024 Young Australian of the Year.

“12 years ago, I didn’t know if I’d be alive in five years,” Nikhil told Indian Link.

“Today, I get to wake up every day and work on things that can make a difference to vulnerable people like me.”

At age 17, Nikhil was diagnosed with leukaemia and has undergone chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, and open-heart surgery.

The now 30-year-old is cancer-free and graduates from Western Sydney University on 14 December.

you to make sure other people can see and always try to leave a smile on people’s faces.

That’s the kind of person he was.”

After his cancer diagnosis, Nikhil said he knew he needed to study medicine.

The degree has taken him 12 years to finish because he suffered from relapses, secondary cancers and went blind in one eye.

During the periods he was unable to study, Nikhil spent his time researching solutions to issues he cared about.

“I was like, I can make a difference without needing to do a medical degree, right? You can create lasting change that helps people – that’s what I did.”

AFFORDABLE MEDICAL DEVICES FOR THE SICK

Nikhil founded his first company BheemHealth after losing a couple of friends in the timespan of one week.

One of those friends had suffered a fall in hospital, and wasn’t attended to for more than an hour.

“It’s not the diseases that kill or harm you most. It’s often things like falls, pressure sores, pneumonia which are complications of your condition,” the 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year said.“I, myself, had experienced some very preventable complications of being sick.”

Because of these incidents, Nikhil began brainstorming affordable solutions.

Nikhil needs a wheelchair to get around longer distances.

One day, when he was trying to get to an education room in Blacktown Hospital, he was unable to find information about access like parking and ramps.

“I was like, this is ridiculous,” Nikhil said.“I thought back to all those times over the years since cancer, when I was going through chemo and I wasn’t going out because I just didn’t know basic information about places like if there’s shade on the way to and around the building, if there’s a water fountain somewhere because I needed to take some medication…”

The 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year decided to build the Google Maps of accessibility by creating Knia Maps, which crowd sources and plots in-depth accessibility information at major Sydney hospitals, universities, public venues and transport, and hundreds of small businesses and counting.

“We’re trying to map out the world for people because people with disabilities are severely lonely,” Nikhil said.

Almost 30 percent of people with disability aged 15 to 64 in Australia experience loneliness according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

“I’ve felt that myself, and that’s something that shouldn’t happen. So hopefully, something like this allows people to access and be part of their community.”

DOCTORS AGAINST VIOLENCE TOWARDS WOMEN Nikhil said he was struck by the story of Sydney dentist Dr Preethi Reddy who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in a hotel room in 2019.

“I saw it all unfold online because friends of mine were literally searching… they were like, where is she? Has anyone seen her?

And then we got the news that she was

‘DAD TAUGHT ME TO HELP PEOPLE’

Nikhil said he always wanted to become a doctor.

“Not just because I’m Indian,” he joked.

“I watched M*A*S*H growing up – the TV show about the doctors in war.”

He added, “Dad always taught me to help people; when you’re standing in line or you’re at an event, always look behind 10 DECEMBER 2023

Becoming a doctor

With mum Nivedita

At chemo

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NSW Premier Chris Minns presents 2024 NSW Young Australian of the Year award to Nikhil Autar

• Nikhil Autar’s BheemUP allows any bed to convert into a hospital bed.

• His BheemSense is the world’s first sensor mat that tracks sleep phases and helps minimise pressure sores.

• His Knia Maps crowd sources and plots in-depth accessibility information at major Sydney locations.

found in a bag.”

The incident drove Nikhil to get in touch with a group of doctors who were supporting each other to help victims of domestic violence.

He then helped create and grow the charity Doctors Against Violence Towards Women – a coalition of more than 750 doctors committed to improving the lives of those suffering intimate partner violence.

MAKING AN IMPACT

If you ask Nikhil Autar what his most proud achievement is, his answer will surprise you.

“I caught a huge tuna a couple of months ago, my biggest fish ever,” he jokes.

Jokes aside, Nikhil said he was

honoured to be nominated for 2024 Young Australian of the Year.

“I lost my dad last year so I’m just sad he couldn’t have seen something like that.

But the ability for whoever wins to make a bigger difference than they already are – that would be great. I’m keen to see that flourish, whatever happens.”

Nikhil migrated to Australia from Fiji when he was 3 years old.

“As a migrant, someone told me that education is the equaliser when you come from hardship to a place without any help or assistance,” he said.“It’s great if you have the ability to get educated and make a bigger difference to your community.”

The 2024 Young Australian of the Year will be announced on 25 January.

DECEMBER 2023 11

12 DECEMBER 2023

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DECEMBER 2023 13

TRIBUTE

Dr Harry

Quiet operator. Deep connector.

Mover of mountains.

Farewelling Dr GK "Harry" Harinath, trailblazer, doctor, cricket administrator and the former chairperson of Multicultural NSW. BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

S

ome three hundred people came out to farewell much-loved community figure Dr GK (Hari) Harinath on 23 November.

Doctor, cricket administrator, head of Multicultural NSW, mentor to many and friend to even more, Dr Harinath breathed his last on 18 November, having been diagnosed with cancer just over a year ago.

He was 79 years old.

Among those present at the final farewell, besides family, were three former NSW Ministers for Multiculturalism, a bevy of politicians and administrators, former NSW and Australian cricketers, colleagues in the medical fraternity, and friends from Sydney’s Indian community.

Speakers who paid their respects on the occasion spoke about their particular brand of friendship with Dr Harinath, or Dr Hari or Dr Harry as he was known. Each had a different story to tell, but together they painted a story of an unassuming medical student who dishwashed his way through university in the 1970s, to someone whose passion for cricket was so great that he rose

14 DECEMBER 2023

from the position of team doctor of the local club to become the CEO of Cricket NSW, and then a board member of Cricket Australia, the first Indian-origin person to do so.

His contributions to the community did not stop there. He became the CEO initially and then the Chair of Multicultural NSW, a post which in his tenure made NSW a vibrant and exciting multicultural community, an envy of modern cities the world over. He continued to serve as Chairperson Emeritus of the Multicultural NSW Advisory Board after he stepped down as Chairperson in 2022, a position he had held for eight years.

His work, both in cricket and in multiculturalism, has been substantial, even described as ‘seismic’.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said in a message, “As the esteemed Chairperson of Multicultural NSW, as well as Cricket NSW, Dr Harinath’s influence and leadership roles reflect a life dedicated to service. His remarkable contribution to multicultural communities in NSW stands unparalleled.”

Joseph La Posta, Chair of Multicultural NSW said, “As a person, Dr Harinath was a generous, warm and humble leader and a long-time mentor to me, as well as to many people in the community.”

Neil Maxwell, Chairman of SCG Cricket and the Sydney Cricket Club, announced on the occasion that in recognition of Dr Harry Harinath’s contribution to NSW cricket, the annual Multicultural Cup will now be known as the ‘Dr GK Harinath Cup’. This year, 42 teams from 24 nations in NSW will

Dr Harry as he appeared on an Indian Link cover in 2008

be participating.

Among Dr Harry’s decorations already are an OAM (2009) from the Australian Government and a Pravasi Bharatiya Samman (2017) from the Indian Government.

MAKING AUSTRALIA HOME

Gorur Krishna Harinath arrived in Australia in 1971, armed with an MBBS from Osmania University. He knew as early as 11, he would often say, that he wanted to be a doctor. He worked towards a Diploma in Tropical Medicine and Hygiene here and got his first job in Devonport, Tasmania.

A chance meeting in Sydney with Fred Bennett, Chairman of the Australian Cricket Board, got him into cricket, albeit circuitously.

“Come along to Balmain Cricket Club on the weekends and help out with medical issues,” Bennett had said, setting Dr Harry off on his cricket trajectory.

Perhaps it was cricket that helped him break down glass ceilings.

Yet he said more than once, “If you’ve got it, you will make it. Australian society is very open.”

His affection for Australia ran deep, and he was passionate about creating harmony in a society that was far more diverse than the one in which he had arrived.

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Dr Harinath played a central role in the NSW tradition of the lighting up of the Sydney Opera House at Diwali (Source: Multicultural NSW)

75th birthday

“Cultural harmony is not about what the government can do; it’s about what each one of us can do,” he once told this masthead.

And he should know. As a Tamilian who was born and brought up in Hyderabad, he married a Bangalorean, raised his kids in Australia, warmly welcomed an Aussie son-in-law and an Aussie daughter-in-law, and became head of a wonderfully close-knit multicultural family.

Wife Gayatri, and children Neeta and John Callagher and Vikram and Jackie Harinath were by his side when the end came.

He always spoke to me in Hyderabadi, the lingo of his and my hometown, and this made our relationship very special.

He always had time for me.

COMMUNITY TRIBUTES

In the last week, the news of Dr Harry’s passing sent shock waves through the community. In characteristic style, he had kept his illness a close secret amongst family and friends.

Up to a fortnight before his death, he had continued working in his medical practice, seeing patients as he laboured through chemo himself. He continued to be on the ball about all his passions – Australian politics, Indian politics, the cricket scene, and community affairs.

There was one thing different though; he would steer the conversation away from himself.

“I’m well,” he would say simply when asked, and then quickly deflect with, “So what have the kids been up to,” or something similar.

Social media has been awash with deeply personal notes of grief and loss, showing not only the great regard in which Dr Harry was held, but also the close personal relationships he was able to build across industries, and age, faith and cultural groups.

He could come from a meeting with the Premier of NSW or a top minister, and then get down to work quietly in his medical practice.

Out and about: Dr Harinath at IABBV Hindi School

He knew all about my family and always inquired after the children.

He had a knack for getting things done: when he had the vision to change the waste dump in Sydney’s Inner West suburb of St Peters to a magnificent cricket ground, he was quietly able to raise millions to make it happen.

He was a great mentor; he taught me about ‘the power of silence’ i.e., the art of keeping quiet and allowing the other party to fill in the blanks and complete the negotiations.

He was ready to meet with me whenever I felt confused and help me rationalise my thoughts.

The quality of Dr Harry’s relationships was such, that everyone believed they each shared a unique bond with him. In most instances, this was likely true.

His inherent humility and gentle manner were defining qualities. He was a quiet operator. And a deep connector. Connecting with people was his greatest skill – in turn, making connections for people, and opening doors.

Neil Maxwell, long-time friend, said at the service, “His quiet nature had the ability to move mountains.”

Many in the Indian community in NSW will perhaps never know of the doors he opened and the mountains he moved for them.

Only days before he passed, dozens of Diwali Fairs had lit up various parts of Sydney. These had delighted thousands of new migrants from South Asia – who will never know of the part Dr Harinath played in making these multicultural celebrations possible.

And that’s exactly how he would have wanted it.

Dr Harry with Joseph LaPosta and Pawan Luthra

DECEMBER 2023 15

(Pics: Chris Pavlich Photography/McGrath Foundation; Prabodh’s blog)

FUNDRAISER

Prabodh Malhotra walks 1000km AGAIN! BY LAKSHMI GANAPATHY

P

rabodh Malhotra is no stranger to going the distance.

Last year, he completed a 1100km walk from the MCG to the SCG via Canberra, a 52-day long affair to raise money for the McGrath Foundation.

It was a journey replete with generosity and blisters, a marathon feat, not least for a 71-year-old.

One year older and wiser, he’s doing it all again. On Sunday 29 October, Malhotra set off from the MCG on what will be a more arduous journey, over 200kms longer than the last one.

This time, Malhotra will take a scenic route through regional Victoria and NSW, covering roughly 30 kilometres each day. With regular pit stops at servos and scheduled rest days along the route, he aims to walk 259 kilometres in his first week alone, reaching the SCG on January 3 to attend the Pink Test.

“My friends say people who retire [should] relax and put [their] feet up!” says Malhotra. “They say ‘last year we thought you were crazy, but now we know you are!’”

Of course, such an undertaking isn’t possible without the generous support of these family, friends, and volunteers, many of whom will accompany Malhotra for

16 DECEMBER 2023

portions of his journey.

For the next two months, his home will be a rental van, a rotating roster of volunteers including his son in the driver’s seat, watching every step. Family friends have lovingly prepared samosas, masala tea and meals for the fridge in his van. Some have even readied their spare bed and put the kettle on, eagerly awaiting his arrival in their town.

And then, there’s the kindness of strangers along the way…

“People are very nice because you’re working for the common good,” says Malhotra. “When they find out you’re doing this charity walk, they want you to have a chat or stay over. It’s really moving when people go out of their way to help you.”

Last year, Prabodh Malhotra and his crew found themselves on the road in Cosgrove, just outside of Shepparton, where they’d hoped to stay the night somewhere in the town centre – except Cosgrove, with a population of 50, didn’t have a town centre.

“We were walking in the middle of nowhere, and I was thinking, ‘where is this Cosgrove?’”, he remembers.

Lucky for them, an inquisitive local pulled over, recognising Malhotra from a TV interview earlier that week.

“He said, ‘You’re the walking doctor!

Don’t worry, you see that farm? You can stay there.’ His wife made me the most beautiful vegetarian dinner, and fresh bread, and breakfast the next morning. It was unbelievable,” Malhotra says.

This year, Malhotra has chosen a route

The 72-year-old is back for his second McGrath Foundation walk, this time 200km longer

through the regions to raise awareness of breast cancer in Ballarat, Echuca, Bendigo, Deniliquin, Wagga Wagga and Goulburn.

With breast cancer affecting over 20,000 Australians each year, it’s a conversation that’s set to resonate with regional communities.

“I’m not worried about the mileage.

The whole idea is to raise awareness and connect with the communities. As long as I can do that, I’ve done my part,” he says.

This year, he hopes to raise $100,000 through his walk, which will go towards the McGrath Foundation’s goal of reaching 250 specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses to support families through their cancer journey.

“The sooner they increase the number of nurses, the better for the community,” he says.

Breast cancer awareness is a cause close to Malhotra’s heart, having supported his sister through her diagnosis in 2017. It’s this lived experience, and his admiration of the McGrath Foundation which has kept Malhotra persevering on the toughest of stretches, particularly in the lead up to this year’s walk.

In 2022, as Prabodh Malhotra took his final steps towards the SCG in his fourth pairs of shoes for the trip, many asked him whether he’d walk again next year. At that time, he famously said he’d ‘cross that bridge when he came to it’.

But hamstring and glute issues which emerged in the months after his first walk threatened to stop him crossing any bridges

at all in the future.

“In the back of my mind I thought if I could, I’d love to do it again. But I was in a bad shape,” he says. “I didn’t want to start something I wasn’t going to be able to complete.”

The dream of a second charity walk was slipping away – but Malhotra remained determined.

He laboured through months of rehabilitation, a jam-packed weekly roster of Pilates, pool exercises, physiotherapy and exercise physiology. Slowly, he trained his body to walk long distances again, walking 30+ kilometres to his friends’ houses across Melbourne, and regularly visiting his favourite 1000 Steps Walk in Ferntree Gully.

It’s effort that’s paid dividends, with Malhotra now well placed to go above and beyond his last walk.

“I feel happy and better prepared than last year,” he says. “Some of my friends said I’m over-prepared, but I think you can never over-prepare for such a challenge.”

So can we expect a hat-trick? Malhotra’s tempering his expectations.

“Look, I don’t know. I think I’m getting tired, and I’ll be 73 next year,” he says.

“The body’s okay this year, but I don’t know how it’ll go [next year].”

Prabodh’s fundraiser currently stands at $74,552 of a $100,000 goal.

Make your donation at fundraise. mcgrathfoundation.com.au

www.indianlink.com.au

BUSINESS

Friend-shoring all the way to India Insights from twenty-six companies that cracked the code to succeeding in the India-Australia business space.

CASE STUDY: FERRA INDIA

BY SRIRAMAN ANNASWAMY

A

recently launched compendium titled Case Studies: Advocating Business Success Between Australia and India puts paid to an oftused cliche about the state of the business relationship between the two nations – that corporate Australia plonks India in the ‘toohard’ basket.

It shines the spotlight on 26 (mostly Australian) businesses, diligently researched and curated, that have cracked the AustraliaIndia business space with their targeted offerings – in sectors as diverse as mining, EdTech, MedTech, gaming, alcohol beverages, dairy products, aerospace and agriculture.

Produced by Sydney-based corporate advisory firm Newland Global Group, it was launched in mid-November in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

With their data-driven research and evidence-based paradigm, authors Dipen Rughani and Natasha Jha Bhaskar, CEO and Executive Director of Newland Global respectively, have proven that though the road may be challenging, for those willing to take this challenge the opportunities and rewards are many.

The work provides, for each company spotlighted, its particular market strategy, and key takeaways and insights gained from its market journey. Quite ground-breaking in its depth and quality, all 200 pages and 50,000 words of it.

It also serves to highlight that friend-shoring has become the order of the day, and India has become a favoured and trusted friend of Australia.

The Sydney launch, interestingly, took place at the Barangaroo offices of HSBC, the largest foreign bank here in Australia and also the largest foreign bank in India.

At the launch, Consul General of India (Sydney) Manish Gupta emphasised the emerging opportunities with India and said that while everyone was aware of these, the Newland Global compendium takes into account the micro aspects of doing business in India and succeeding. Also speaking was Edan Corkill (Director Global Markets, Investment NSW) who pointed out that eight of the 26 success stories were advisory clients of Investment NSW, in what is a testimony to the India focus of his organisation.

A panel discussion on the occasion offered insights on key aspects of succeeding in India as an Australian business. Some of these are: n Importance of controlling the end customer experience directly without leaving it solely to the Indian partners ResMed’s Nupur Bhushan highlighted this through her sleep technology company’s strategic changes to the operating model required to succeed in India after a few initial hiccups in the marketplace. Their customer service now includes local contact centres, multi-lingual customer support and after-sales service tightly overseen by the

Australia’s leading aerospace and defence company Ferra Engineering, launched in 1992, specialises in the design, manufacture and maintenance of subsystems and structures for the aviation sector, both commercial and military.

In 2011, it opened its operations in Bengaluru, the aerospace capital of India. Today Ferra Inda delivers on India’s ever-increasing domestic requirements in civil and military aviation, as well as maximising on global export opportunities.

“Ferra India has played a key role in several projects for Boeing (737, 747-8, 777, F/A18, CH-47, P8, BDA Currawong and JDAM-ER),” the Newland Global compendium reports.

CASE STUDY: ZERO LATENCY

Natasha Jha Bhaskar

Dipen Rughani

Australian firm.

Utilizing the low-cost innovation potential offered by India to create products for the global marketplace The George Institute’s Tim Regan highlighted this by pointing out the growing importance of India as an innovation hub, particularly in areas such as clinical trials, drug repurposing and drug discovery. n Having a deep commitment to India and hence, a long-term view of its potential Kevin Morgan of Global Study Partners pointed out the organisation’s response to being blindsided by COVID-19 where they deliberately avoided cost-cutting involving their Indian staff, but focused on other parts of the business with overheads. This proved to be a very wise decision as the pandemic started to subside and demand from Indian students for Australian education rocketed upwards.

So, what else could the Newland Group do to build on this ground-breaking research and take it to even greater heights?

One simple suggestion: the one area where Australia’s ASX Top 50 firms have seen enormous success in engaging with India is

tapping India’s digital transformation skill sets in accelerating innovation within their businesses here in Australia and NZ. Whilst historically this has involved thirdparty Indian service providers such as Indian tech majors, increasingly the trend has been to set up their own full-fledged Digital Global Capability Centres (Digital GCCs) focused on areas such as advanced analytics, data science and data engineering and of course, the now ubiquitous AI. Examples of this leading-edge trend are companies like the CBA (with now 5,000 strong staff based out of its Indian centres), Telstra, and even smaller organisations such as the Link Group.

As Newland Group looks to enhance their research offering over time, this could be an area worthy of consideration.

“This is a live compendium,” Bhaskar told Indian Link. “We will continue to add more case studies as Australian and Indian businesses continue to build on the commercial opportunities that are opening up to them.

While cricket will be a strong bond, critical minerals, digital capabilities, and education among others will be the focus of the years ahead.”

n

Australian company Zero Latency, an immersive entertainment industry leader that introduced the world to ‘Free Roam VR’, has changed India’s gaming experience forever, having partnered with Samrey Entertainments.

Samrey founder Parinitaa Rajgarhia stumbled onto Zero while on holiday in Bangkok in 2019, and launched it in India the very same year, opening the country’s first free-roam VR gaming experiences and entertainment centre in Lower Parel Mumbai.

COVID-19 notwithstanding, the company grew, and Rajgarhia launched its second outlet in Hyderabad in 2021.

“India is estimated to have more than 400 gaming companies and 420 million gamers online,” the Newland Global compendium notes. “The growth in India’s virtual reality gaming is expected to be at 30 per cent by 2027, led by the inclusion of gaming studios and social gaming.”

By 2030, gaming is expected to be a $3.7 billion industry in India.

To learn what the key takeaways are from the market strategies of these and other companies, check out the Newland Global compendium of case studies using this QR code.

DECEMBER 2023 17

SPECIAL FEATURE

Worth reading again

OPINION We’re saying Yes Indian Link’s Statement of Support for The Voice to Parliament G20 +1 – 2 PAWAN LUTHRA on whether the parts of G20 will be greater thantheir sum

INDIA-AUS Bringing our nations and our people even closer Prime Minister ANTHONY ALBANESE’s reflections on his India visit India: A remarkable adventure PAWAN LUTHRA spoke with returning Australian High Commissioner to India BARRY O’FARRELL

Our pick of stories from this year

‘More participation in all aspects of our democracy’ RITAM MITRA spoke with CHARISHMA KALIYANDA, the first Indian-born person to be elected to the NSW Parliament

ACCOLADES Indian links in the Australia Day Honours 2023 and King’s Birthday Honours 2023 (various reports) Nikhil Autar: NSW Young Person of the Year 2024 NADINE SILVA spoke with the medical student and cancer survivor who has made significant contributions in patient care and social enterprises

Balesh Dhankhar was found guilty of multiple sexual offences. RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA spoke to shocked members of the community “Civilians and regular people are the sufferers” Sydney’s Mamantam Sharma Aribam spoke to SWAGATA ROY CHOWDHURY on the turmoil in his home state Manipur

IDENTITY What it means to be Fijian-Indian in Australia As he came to terms with his own Fijian-Indian identity, NAVISHKAR RAM realised it was multicultural spaces that provided him with the best answers.

“There’s a contemporary India that we need to make accessible and visible and accessible” PAWAN LUTHRA in conversation with SWATI DAVE, inaugural Chair of the Centre for Australia-India Relations

What drives Dr Chennupati Jagadish TORSHA SEN spoke with the ANU scientist who became the latest Australian Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awardee

COMMUNITY

Historical hardship, resilience and freedom: My Indo-Fijian identity To celebrate Fiji's 53rd anniversary of independence, SUHAYLA SHARIF explored how her compatriots navigate their double diasporic identity.

Friend-shoring all the way to India SRIRAMAN ANNASWAMY on Newland Global Group’s compendium of twenty-six Australian companies who cracked the code to operate in India.

Plaque in search of a home VIVEK ASRI on the Little India plaque unveiled with much fanfare by Prime Ministers Modi and Albanese, and the ensuing squabbles about where it should be placed

Five ways to uplift leadership behaviour SALMA SHAH on what Indiatrained women must unlearn to succeed in Australia’s tech sector

POLITICS Pale, male, stale PAWAN LUTHRA on what’s ailing the Liberal Party ‘As a parliament we are now looking like the people we represent’ KHUSHAL VYAS spoke with DANIEL MOOKHEY just after he was sworn in as NSW Treasurer

18 DECEMBER 2023

WOMEN

A booster shot of national pride RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA was inside the packed Qudos Arena when India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a community forum

Using technology to push for gender equity ANEETA MENON on three IndianAustralian women cracking the code in their own sphere of influence

Balesh Dhankhar case: Community leaders weigh in Ex Friends of BJP chief

Because all shades matter PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY on All Shades Matter

STARTUP

Cosmetics, whose founders wanted a brand to suit their brown skin Internash PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY on two international students who built a startup to help others like them

BOOKS Words with Shankari Chandran: Chai Time chatter SARU SIVAPALAN on what winning the Miles Franklin Literary Award 2023 means to its winner Shankari, to Australia, and to the South Asian diaspora Non-verbal and articulate LAKSHMI GANAPATHY on Sidharth Chandran, a person living with autism and Complex Communication Needs, who launched his first book this year

SPORT INDvAUS: Quirky trivia In a two-part series just as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 was about to commence, KERSI MEHER-HOMJI brought us some gems from INDvAUS history that we guaranteed you wouldn’t find elsewhere Tone-deaf Cummins criticism misses the mark Early this year, the treatment of Australia’s Test captain by some Australian cricket fans was a blight not just on cricket, but on society, wrote RITAM MITRA. When MCC members torched the Spirit of Cricket It is the members of the MCC, rather than the Australian

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cricket team, who demonstrated the greatest disregard for the Spirit of Cricket on the final day of the second Ashes Test at Lord’s, wrote RITAM MITRA

POPULAR CULTURE Remembering Jock Zonfrillo NEERU SALUJA took a trip down memory lane with some MasterChef Australia contestants whose lives judge Jock touched deeply.

Say Hi to Priya Sharma SUHAYLA SHARIF spoke with a TikTok creator who stepped into social media spotlight with her food, family, and footsteps around the world.

Six young Aussie Desi musicians to follow LAKSHMI GANAPATHY on how you could support local emerging desi talent

EXPAT What surprised me the most when I lived in India Melbourne science teacher KRISTEN DIAS on how she came to love India

THE ARTS Mali’s Cartoons: On an India that’s collective and inclusive TORSHA SEN spoke with Newcastle-based cartoonist and illustrator Mahafuj Ali, the man behind the hugely popular online sensation Mali’s Cartoons, on how the 1988 ditty Mile Sur Mera Tumhara informs his creations Aussie street artist paints a giant mural in Mumbai Fintan Magee told

PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY the Dadar art pushed him out of his comfort zone

recreates some iconic cocktails from your favourite movies and TV shows.

Jarracharra: Weaving age-old stories into textile art PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY on First Nations artists from Arnhem Land who toured India with their traditional designs.

TRAVEL

KIDS

Flying in comfort Why PETRA O’NEILL likes those airport lounges

‘Don’t judge me by my disability’ 11-year-old SHALOM ILA BHASKAR interviewed fellow student HAYA DAGHER, 12, who lives with a visual impairment

A flash flood of colour RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA on Kirthana Selvaraj’s Archibald tribute to fellow artist Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran Bhairavi and Nanthesh: Reconciling identity through music LAKSHMI GANAPATHY on two young musicians bringing a bicultural voice to traditional Carnatic music.

Hunting paedophiles PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY spoke with Brisbane-based film-maker AKHIM DEV whose awardwinning documentary The Children in the Pictures is a must-see for every parent

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS I’m making my dreams come true TORSHA SEN on Sumit Sumit, who moved from a Delhi slum to study in Sydney Uni after winning a scholarship

FOOD Fill it with millet GAURAV MASAND puts his jar of ancient grains out on the front shelf for the International Year of Millets.

Five iconic cocktails from the screen Shaken but not stirred…. AFZAL KABA

Crossing the Nullarbor solo PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY spoke with Nilanjana Chakraborty who drove five days from Adelaide to Perth in what is a quintessential Australian outback experience Top ten treks in India Whether you prefer a leisurely day-hike or a challenging multiday expedition across the high passes, India has a lot to offer, wrote TORSHA SEN Coober Pedy: White man in a hole SANDIP HOR travelled to a unique Aussie destination, the Opal Capital of the world, which should give you a hint about the meaning of that Indigenous name

SENIORS The unbelievable story of Charan Dass LAKSHMI GANAPATHY spoke with the 71-year-old Indian Army veteran who continues to find success and garners acclaim despite having no formal education

FAMILY My dad, in his own words In a unique Father’s Day series, four dads were interviewed by their children - VIVEK BHATIA, SHARON JOHAL, MANAN LUTHRA and MYRHA GHANTWAL In Mum’s sari We raided our mums’

wardrobes to create a unique Mother’s Day tribute

NOSTALGIA My memories with music maestro Pankaj Mullick KERSI MEHER-HOMJI’s tribute on the birth anniversary of one of Indian cinema’s earliest and most prolific musicians

VISUAL STORIES • Pawan Luthra in conversation with returning Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O’Farrell • Lakshmi Ganapathy’s Linking History (Episode 1): Indian servants and convicts in Australia • Pawan Luthra in conversation with IFFM founder Mitu Bhowmick Lange • Torsha Sen and Sagar Mehrotra’s Hindi language campaigns for the Yes vote in the Voice to Parliament Referendum • Khushaal Vyas in conversation with NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey • Himansu Parekh’s Ramadan Markets • Sagar Mehrotra’s Diwali lights decorations in Western Sydney • Neeru Saluja in conversation with actor Sunny Leone • Torsha Sen in conversation with musician Jubin Nautiyal • Torsha Sen in conversation with filmmaker Anurag Kashyap

DECEMBER 2023 19

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

NOSTALGIA

n. We’ve io t p e c in e c th year sin 9 2 ’s k in L n hotos, it’s ia p d y il In k m r a a f m ld e o g back at talgic as w in s k o o n lo ll ts here! a o e k h g li s in p d t a t n n e a s g , s e w e ’r o u e W hen and N our old iss T h e g u m o o r s h t g g in s a pic! r n u a h d n S . e e S id ? s d been leafi in e v and fuzzy ’ve preser u m r o a y t w a ll h a t s e u u making n Link iss ia d In n a in r e Were you ev THEN

NOW

THEN

Dr. VEENA SAHAJWALLA In 2011, we wrote about Prof. Veena Sahajwalla winning the Indian Government’s Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award for eminent overseas Indians. It is but one of the many awards she has received, a recent one being NSW Australian of the Year in 2022. Her claim to fame is rubbish – or rather, how to reclaim it. Waste, Dr Sahajwalla preaches, is not to be rubbished, but broken down into its component parts and then put back together into new products.

She’s given new life to old tyres, discarded plastic, old clothes, coffee waste, to produce steel and building material, and has come to be called “Queen of Waste.”

‘Green steel’, ‘green ceramics’, ‘microfactories’, ‘microsolutions’ are terms she has popularised, in her ultimate aim of building sustainable communities.

Her body of work has made her a flag-bearer for science and science education, for overseas-trained scientists in this country, for women in STEM, and for research and application in the science of recycling.

THEN

MALA MEHTA

It was an OAM that made Mala Mehta our covergirl in 2006, awarded to her for “service to the community in Sydney through establishing the Hindi School, fostering interest in Indian culture, and providing assistance to new migrants”. It was a rare honour then in Australia’s migrant community.

Nearly twenty years later, Mala continues to do all of the above and more, her interests and acclaim having moved beyond the confines of the community.

Her main work though continues in language advocacy, particularly related to the Indo Australian Bal Bharatiya Hindi School she founded in 1987. Run with the help of volunteer teachers, the school saw their first HSC student only ten years after inception. Mala herself was involved in curriculum development for a few years prior.

Today the school attracts diplomats, political figures and education authorities. Its students are welcomed on the wider stage for their cultural contributions, and its teachers have helped mainstream schools in their take up of Hindi classes. Mala herself has taken on other roles over and above her teaching, cultural, pastoral and now grandmotherly responsibilities.

These include Women’s Shed, Police Multicultural Advisory Council, theatre patron, and most recently, Voice to Parliament campaigner.

20 DECEMBER 2023

NOW

DAVE SHARMA In 2013 Dave Sharma was appointed as Australia’s Ambassador to Israel. Only 37 then, he became Australia’s youngest ever appointee to such a role.

In 2018 he was on our cover, as he campaigned for the crucial Wentworth seat as a Liberal Party candidate. The byelection had come about following the ousting of sitting member Malcolm Turnbull as Prime Minister. Dave famously went on to win then, but lost out to Independent Allegra Spender in 2022.

Well, he’s back in the news again, like his charismatic namesake Dev Anand, whose defining characteristic was that he refused to give up.

(Yup, in case you’re wondering, Dave is named after the famous Hindi film actor). Dave has won his way back into Parliament as a Senator, taking over the spot left vacant by the retirement of former foreign affairs minister Marise Payne.

NOW

www.indianlink.com.au

BARRY O’FARRELL

THEN

NOW

When we featured Barry O’Farrell on our cover in 2011, we had no idea of the impact he would go on to have on India-Australia relations. (Perhaps we should have guessed, given the book he was reading when he posed for this pic for us.)

He was then heading a Liberal Party campaign to lead the state of NSW, which he won (after 16 years in Opposition, as he likes to remind us). Today of course, he is a name to reckon with in the bilateral space, and a well-known Indophile, having served a hugely successful term as Australia’s High Commissioner to India (Feb 2020 – June 2023). It was under his tenure that the relationship between the two countries took a fillip, after having been fraught with difficulties in the two decades preceding. Australia’s perceptions of India finally moved from the three Cs (no, we’re not going to elaborate on that) to the Ds, (Democracy, Diaspora and Dosti – that last one being the Hindi word for friendship, which Barry can lay claim to hashtagging). The Es are also being bandied about (Economy, Energy, Education).

Care to bring on the Fs, Barry?

THEN

DANIEL MOOKHEY In 2015, Daniel Mookhey made history when he became the first Indian-origin politician to enter NSW Parliament as a member of the Legislative Council.

As the 32-year-old took oath on the Hindu holy book, the Bhagavad Gita, he made the news headlines not only here in Australia but also in India and in Indian diasporic communities across the world.

In a wide-ranging interview he had then spoken of his family’s early migration here when the community was miniscule, growing up in Western Sydney, his introduction to politics at university, and family life with wife Tamsin Lloyd.

Earlier this year, he brought out his copy of the Bhagavad Gita again as he took oath, this time as Treasurer of NSW in a Chris Minns led Labor government.

In his interview with us this time round, he spoke of his priorities and plans as Treasurer, but also about representation – of seeing other Indian origin members in Parliament as well as those from other religions and regions of the world.

NOW

THEN

UZMA BEG In an eleven-year stint on Indian Link Radio, she bowled us over with her nonstop chatter, fiery spirit and no-filter demeanour. Even as Uzma Beg shocked us – on a daily basis on her Morning Show - she delighted us with her caring personality and genuine warmth. Yup, it was an unusual combo alright, but her unique charisma was undeniable. It won the hearts of her listeners like never before, and she continues to be remembered on air to this day.

She’s now moved on to greener pastures, commanding a vastly bigger audience as a film and television star in Pakistan. You’ve probably seen her in Hum Tum, Chupke Chupke, Badshah Begum, Pyari Mona, Aangan, Bisaat e Dil, Ishqe-Benaam, Gham-e-Dil, Yun Hi, Naseebon Jali, Kaffara, or in the feature film Dum Mustum.

Can’t wait to see her now in the about-to-bereleased series Barzakh, alongside famous names such as Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed.

NOW

DECEMBER 2023 21

FIRST PERSON

30 and going nowhere…

Three decades old: GEETH GEEGANAGE reflects on the future and on the past, while settling into the present

T

urning 30 years old is a milestone birthday. It’s natural to reflect on your life and accomplishments, but what if you feel like you’re going nowhere?

I’m asking myself this question because I’ve just turned 30 this month. I’m grateful for all that I have, but I can’t help but feel like I should be further along in my career and personal life.

What’s that old saying “comparison is the thief of joy”? Who said that again …

If you read the first chapter of former Foreign Minister and NSW Premier Bob Carr’s book Run for Your Life, you would know that it is titled “30 and going nowhere”.

If you then read the following 300 pages, you realise that Premier Carr was definitely going somewhere with immense pace and passion.

His definition of “nowhere” would be other people’s “somewhere”. And other people’s “somewhere”, could be another person’s “destination”. I’ve had the pleasure of

With former NSW Premier Bob Carr

22 DECEMBER 2023

speaking with Mr Carr on several occasions about his journey through political life and it was never linear, but he was driven by his mission.

I think all too often in life, as you look to what is coming next, you look back at what you have achieved with a hypercritical lens.

If you did pat yourself on the back for any success so far, you would also risk being caught in the act of self-congratulations.

Otherwise, more likely, you may opt to admonish yourself for failing to achieve more by this point. After all, I have failed to launch an entire social media platform like Mark Zuckerberg did by this age. As a small win, I am never accused of being a lizard disguised as a man but is that really enough?

As I write this, I’m thinking about what variation of chest and arm exercises I will be doing at the gym in 45 minutes. At age 30, Oprah Winfrey was getting ready to be the first black woman to host a nationally syndicated talk show … and here I am

stirring some pre-workout in cold water?

Come on, man!

Comparing, contrasting, measuring… comparison is the thief of joy. Great saying, GREAT saying. Whoever said it first deserves a Nobel Peace Prize because that has given me some mental peace.

But seriously, did you think that at 30, you would have it all figured out? According to a 2022 survey by Deloitte, 67 per cent of millennials said they are struggling to find their purpose in life.

When I was 15, I had a clear plan. Go to university, become a lawyer, travel the world, marry the woman of my dreams and by 30, be settled down with one kid, another on the way, and a chocolate Labrador furbaby, living blissfully in the outer suburbs.

(Pretty colourist of me not to go for the golden one, but something about a choc lab speaks to me.)

What is the report card on these goals and aspirations, you ask?

Geeth with two kids that aren’t his. They’re his cousins

Well, • Went to university. Graduated with a Commerce & Law degree, not law.

• Fell madly and deeply in love… with politics, activism, campaigns and social change. No wife, no partner – but an expert in dating in the era of dating apps.

Hinge’s “pay to play” model has fleeced hundreds of dollars out of me. Hopeless romantic, always!

• Sadly, no choc lab either, or kids that I know of…

But now, things are more complicated.

The World Health Organisation estimates that 7.6 million people each year die before making it to 30, with some of the leading causes being road traffic injuries, suicide and neonatal conditions.

Should we just be grateful when we make it to 30 and call it a day?

Rough to think about, I know. So, I guess, we shouldn’t? Comparison is the thief of joy after all.

There is one comparison that I make yearly, monthly, weekly and sometimes daily.

It is a comparison that never steals my joy but emboldens my commitment, resolve and resilience. When my parents were 30 years old, they hadn’t met yet – but both were living in a Sri Lanka ravaged by civil war, terrorist activity and brutal military activity.

Both civil engineers, they were working on one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic regional development programs which aimed to harness the power of the Mahaveli River to increase agricultural production and generate hydroelectric power as well as create jobs, and resettle landless families.

An ambitious program, it led to them meeting on an outstation posting, right on the boundary of LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) controlled territory. They both lived away from their families then, but a few years later decided to move even further away for a better life, to Australia. And I’ll be forever grateful. I could speak about my parents and their sacrifices for pages, but the fundamental teaching is that this particular comparison always grounds me in gratitude.

I need to be clear; this isn’t a cry for help. I don’t sit up at night crying into my freshly brewed, extra-strength Dilmah Tea thinking about the fact that I haven’t lived out every teenage dream. Nine days out of ten, I awaken with a heart full of gratitude for the success I’ve achieved, the company I keep, and the love that lavishes me from those who choose to share it. But we need to normalise the feeling of uncertainty that ageing brings, and perhaps even more, the detrimental effects of comparative analysis on mental health.

So, wherever you are on your 30th birthday, sip on the ultimate cocktail – the key ingredients being, gratitude reflection and daring to dream.

A young Geeth with his family

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with Lakshmi Ganapathy JAGESH PANCHAL is a Melbourne-based mental wellbeing advocate and youth worker. He is the founder of 'Shakti Mental Health', a platform destigmatising and facilitating discussions around mental health in the South Asian community.

You’ve been a mental health advocate since 2018. What’s a belief around mental wellbeing that’s been challenged for you on this journey?

Finding a therapist or a mental health professional to really speak and sit down with, was tricky. When I first started therapy, it was through an Employee Assistance Program which was a very challenging experience. I felt like the first therapist I had didn’t really understand a lot [about my background], but when I did see someone of South Asian background, a lot of those challenges were overcome. Just knowing your therapist has some context on what you’ve been going through and you don’t have to re-explain or start from scratch in a way is more comforting.

A lot of your work has involved holding space for South Asian men to have conversations. How can we help facilitate conversations around mental health literacy in our community?

What we’ve found, especially with South Asian men, is that you need a bit of a catalyst or activity for certain communities to come together [and speak]. Maybe that's having those discussions over food or chai or you're cooking something together and having those chats… just different creative ways that get people together, in a way [that isn’t] just sitting down and having a chat.

It’s hard not only for South Asian communities, but everyone to have those discussions with people you might not necessarily know, so when you’re in a group setting you really need something that makes you feel comfortable together.

The holiday season means we’ll spend lots of time with our families, which can be lovely but difficult. How do we take care of our mental health amidst family expectations?

I think it's important to set boundaries with family, so maybe before your [extended] family members come over, telling your immediate family, ‘Hey, so and so [relative] hasn’t been the best to me’ and outlining the reasons why[you may not want to talk to them], and letting them know you might need some time outside of the house or by yourself before you rejoin.

[Some] comments can be hurtful, and not a lot of family [members] know that, so it’s on us to say why. It's important your family back you up with that; so, if there's an uncle or aunty or another family member who's making those comments, your parents or family need to also have that conversation with that family member. Those might be uncomfortable [things to do], but in the long term, it means your family can have a more comfortable holiday period.

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

I’m reading Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro, which I started a couple of months ago and am slowly getting through; it’s about this utopian world [with AI], and it’s really good!

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

Ruhaniya, which means soulful or spiritual in Urdu. I’ve been looking at lots of Instagram pages with cool words, and that’s one I’ve really liked over the past few months.

Chat?

And finally: Soan Papdi or Papdi

Papdi Chaat. I had it again over Diwali, I hadn’t had it for a while before that! Soan Papdi is okay, but Papdi Chaat is DECEMBER like, taking it to the2023 next23 level.

SCHOOL

Maya Thiruchelvam

Spelling her way to victory The well-documented relationship between South Asian students and spelling bee success is borne out yet again BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

A

sk nine-year-old Maya Thiruchelvam, winner of the NSW 2023 Junior Spelling Bee, for a difficult word she has come across lately, and she’ll reply, “Pseudonym”.

And a favourite new word?

“Pseudonym!” she’ll say again with delight, the pleasure in learning a difficult new word so clearly obvious.

It’s late afternoon and she’s just finished music lessons after school, but she’s filled with bubbly energy as she talks about this year’s spelling bee.

“It was my first spelling bee finals, but I wasn’t nervous,” she offers.

“Okay, I was a bit nervous at the start, but after I spelled my first word correctly, I realised it wasn’t scary!”

Currently studying in Year 4 at Hamilton South Public School, Thiruchelvam tackled words like ‘Chateau’ and ‘Tortellini’ at the competition to emerge the last contestant standing.

These and other words are specially

24 DECEMBER 2023

selected for the contest from the Macquarie Dictionary each year.

Maya has been participating in the spelling bee for a few years now, first inspired to compete after seeing “some film from the US about a spelling bee” years ago.

“In kindergarten my grade was upset because we couldn’t participate,” she laughs.

Naturally, Maya’s favourite subject at school is spelling, with maths coming a close second, and she is a voracious reader.

“I’m into historical fiction at the moment, reading a series called School for Good and Evil. It’s about a world where fictional characters come alive and save lives.”

An avid writer, the book has inspired her towards creative writing in her spare time.

Of course, Maya has no shortage of hobbies to pass the time.

“I also like to swim, take walks with my dad, play the piano and the flute, and sing in the choir.”

Maya’s parents are avid readers themselves, and the family environment

Trilok Shenoy, NSW Senior champion

is one that has, by design or accident, inculcated the love for the written word.

“Our home has always been filled with books,” Mum Thillini Thiruchelvam tells Indian Link. “Reading began when the babies were young. Visits to the library were frequent.”

She adds, “My husband and I have loved activities with the kids that help acquire vocabulary – sounding the words out, looking them up in the dictionary – giving them the opportunity in every way possible.”

Meanwhile, in the senior state final, Year 6 student Trilok Shenoy of Darcy Road Public School won the NSW title with the difficult word ‘Croquemboche’.

He fought hard against Aditya Paul of Epping Public School, their battle waging on for over 12 rounds.

Maya, Trilok and Aditya were among the top 30 finalists at this year’s NSW Spelling Bee, from 180,000 statewide participants.

Following school rounds and regional rounds, the Grand Final was held at Sydney’s ABC Studios, with ABC personalities Indira Naidoo and Toni Matthews acting as announcers.

The contest has been running for more than twenty years.

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INDIAN LINK LOVES

Loving right now A list of Indian Link’s current favourites

EAT

Chetna Maroo’s Western Lane is a deeply moving coming-of-age story about grief, sisterhood and the immigrant experience. The Nairobi-born author of Indian origin found her debut novel nominated for the 2023 Booker Prize. It sees the world through the eyes of 11-year-old Gopi, a Jain girl in London whose life becomes consumed by the game of squash after her mother dies. Gopi’s father turns his attention to implementing increasingly brutal training programs in an attempt to avoid his grief and anxiety about raising three daughters alone.

It’s mango season, and we’re particularly loving the Honey Gold variety right now. An absolute winner with its unique sweetness (which resembles honey), what gets us is its smaller seed and therefore fleshier mass. It’s also juicier and fibreless, so the best way to eat it is – au naturel of course! Great in salads and smoothies too. Equally fascinating, is that this increasingly popular mango came into being by chance: it was bred in the Rockhampton region in 1991 as a hybrid between Aussie staple Kensington Pride and an unknown variety.

Source: Spotify

READ

LISTEN

WATCH After a whirlwind tour of several international film festivals (Rotterdam, Busan, Durban, Chicago, and closer home to us in Sydney and IFFM), Joram is now in Australia in commercial release. Writer-director Devashish Makhija’s captivating storytelling takes us into a landscape that’s far from the picturesque places Bollywood lovers are typically fed. Lead Manoj Bajpayee shines as his character flees his tormentors, infant child in his arms, after his wife is brutally murdered. A gripping survival thriller unfolds amid a harsh terrain of ravaged woodlands, unchecked avarice, defiance, and the violent repercussions of "progress."

Girls That Invest is a wildly successful podcast by Simran Kaur and Sonya Gupthan.

The New Zealand-based South Asian duo are empowering women and minorities to grow their wealth by demystifying industry jargon and breaking down the world of investing, which they believe is still gatekept. With more than five million downloads, the pair's sense of humour, rapport and authenticity have earned them top spots on various business podcast charts around the world, including Australia, the US, Canada and the UK. The girls are also among this year's Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia honorees.

NADINE SILVA | RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA | SUHAYLA SHARIF DECEMBER 2023 25

Tune in to

Hafta Vasool Friday @ 6 –9 PM

24/7 Streaming 26 DECEMBER 2023

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INDIA

How COVID enabled new forms of economic abuse of women in India

Shockingly, economic abuse was reported from across the divides of class, religion, education and employment status, PUNITA CHOWBEY writes

I

n the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, the United Nations (UN) identified what it called a “shadow pandemic” of domestic violence against women. The UN includes in its definition of domestic violence what it refers to as “economic violence”, which it explains as “making or attempting to make a person financially dependent by maintaining total control over financial resources, withholding access to money, and/or forbidding attendance at school or employment”.

I have been researching economic violence in India, which surged during periods of social distancing and lockdowns.

This not only resulted in the reduction of safe spaces for women and girls, but also trapped them in a space where they were more easily economically exploited.

My research suggests that the COVID lockdowns spawned a whole new class of economic abuse of women in India.

Economic abuse tends to involve controlling and coercive behaviour by a woman’s partner and sometimes the inlaws or other family members, threatening economic security and potential for selfsufficiency.

While economic abuse can take many forms, there are three main types: sabotage, restriction and exploitation.

Sabotage usually involves interfering in a woman’s access to money or in their work.

Restriction is about controlling how women use money. And exploitation most often means a male partner or relative living off a woman, or insisting all debts go in her name.

My previous research has revealed unique forms of abuse that are embedded in specific sociocultural practices in India. Exploitation of streedhan (jewellery and movable or immovable assets given to a woman before and during her marriage) and dowry practices

(money and gifts demanded by the groom and in-laws at the time of and after marriage) have been identified as common forms of economic abuse. If a woman lives with her husband’s family they may control her assets or income where multiple generations live together.

As part of our research in a city in Bihar, India’s third-most populous state in the east of the country, we made a 20-minute documentary: Spent: Fighting Economic Abuse in India, featuring five of the 76 women we spoke to. All but two were mothers with dependent children. We found that economic abuse was common irrespective of class, caste, religion, education or employment status.

One woman, Nitya, wasn’t allowed to work by her family. Instead, she was forced to perform domestic chores around the clock.

This typically included being required to cook seven or eight courses at dinner. At the same time, her husband mocked her for not working. Nitya told us he’d say, “You don’t work, what’s the point of your education?”

Some abusive husbands also refused to pay any household costs relating to women and children – especially girls. Another of our interviewees, Nilu, told us how her husband had refused to pay the medical bills relating to their daughter’s birth and tried to force her back to work with a month-old baby. She was forced to stay at her mother’s home to seek help.

Zubaida’s husband got angry whenever

she asked for money for necessities, while spending a large amount of money on his own clothes and shoes.

In addition, these women reported abuse that was embedded in cultural practices, such as demands for dowry. Nilu told us her husband pretended that he was not getting paid and made her father pay for everything in her house on a regular basis. Her father agreed, in order to ensure that Nilu was not thrown out of her marital home.

superior, which caused her serious problems.

Several other women told us about their male relatives using their logins to clear out their bank accounts. Women also reported loans being taken out in their names, but having no access to the money themselves.

Lockdown made it easier to prevent women from accessing their support groups, including their families. Nitya told us of being beaten by her husband, who wouldn’t allow her to speak to her parents.

NEW ABUSIVE TACTICS

PROTECTION MEASURES

Our interviews suggested that abusive men’s bad treatment of their spouses tended to worsen during the pandemic. And the special circumstances associated with COVID restrictions enabled new forms of economic abuse of women.

The pandemic gave abusive men new ways of controlling and abusing their wives’ finances. In lockdown – and with the isolation that entailed – a family’s financial affairs became dependent on access to the internet, usually via shared mobile phones.

One of the women in our study, Lakshmi – a high-ranking corporate employee – said she was duty-bound to keep her clients’ details confidential. Lakshmi told us her husband took not only her social media and banking passwords but also managed to access her work WhatsApp account, used for communicating with teammates. He started impersonating her online and insulted her

It is crucial to initiate open discussions within families regarding finances, and to question traditional notions of masculinity in relation to money.

Indian law recognises economic abuse in its Domestic Violence Prevention Act 2005.

It includes deprivation of all economic and financial resources and restriction to shared household resources as well as exploitation of women’s own belongings, such as their jewellery and other valuable possessions. But official understanding of economic abuse and its impact on women remains extremely low – both at government level and among professionals and service providers.

It’s a serious problem. Economic abuse has a huge impact on women’s physical and mental wellbeing and has also been shown to have an impact on children’s health and wellbeing To address economic abuse, there’s an urgent need to have open conversations about money in families and challenge ideas around masculinity and money. More importantly, policy makers and practitioners need to work together to address the role of the state, market and community institutions in facilitating economic abuse by reinforcing gender norms, including in financial transactions.

Punita Chowbey is Senior Research Fellow at Sheffield Hallam University, UK This article first appeared in The Conversation.

DECEMBER 2023 27

FOOD

Gulab Jamun three ways GAURAV MASAND gets inventive with an old favourite, and add a bit of oomph to store-bought gulab jamuns

INGREDIENTS 1/2 block of a 250-gm cream cheese block n 2 tbsp sugar, powdered n 1 tsp rose water / gulabjal n 1 tbsp sour cream (optional for light sourness, or few drops of lemon juice) n 50 ml heavy whipping cream or thickened cream for whipping, chilled n 4-5 strands saffron soaked in 2 tbsp milk. n 1/2 tin gulab jamuns(1 tin has 15-16 pieces)

GULAB JAMUN IN CHEESECAKE

n

METHOD FOR MUFFIN Soak chia seed meal in water for 10 minutes, then add to a stand mixer with oil and beat for 2 minutes. Add milk and sugar, beat for 2 more

minutes on medium speed.

Mix the dry ingredients (flour and cocoa powder), and combine with wet mix.

Mix all at slowest speed for 10-15 seconds; avoid overmixing or manual whisking.

Place half a gulab jamun in a muffin cup.

Evenly distribute the batter around. Tap to even it out. Add chocolate chips on top.

Bake at 170°C in a preheated fan-forced oven for 22-24 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

FOR CREAM CHEESE FROSTING Put cream cheese blocks in electric mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed to soften, adding powdered sugar.

Once soft, add sour cream, rose water, and saffron milk mixture. Beat for a few minutes until well combined.

Add the whipping cream and beat until soft peaks form. Mix with the cream cheese mixture.

Use icing tip of choice to pipe the frosting. Place the other half of gulab jamun, or a portion, on top.

Serves 6.

GULAB JAMUN MUFFINS

INGREDIENTS For muffin n 1 tbsp chia seed meal n 1/3 cup water for chia seed meal n 1/4 cup vegetable oil n 1/3 cup raw sugar powdered after measuring n ¼ cup milk n ¾ cup self-raising flour n 1 ½ tbsp cocoa powder For frosting n ½ tbsp rose water /gulabjal n 1/2 tbsp sour cream n 1/2 block of a 250-gm cream cheese block n 2 tbsp sugar, powdered n 50 ml whipped cream n Few strands of saffron, soaked in 1-2 tbsp milk.

METHOD Place cream cheese blocks in an electric mixer bowl.

Beat on medium speed to soften, adding powdered sugar.

When soft, add sour cream, rose water and the saffron milk mixture and beat for a few minutes until well combined.

In another bowl, add the whipping cream and start beating with a hand mixer or stand mixer until soft peaks form.

Combine the whipping cream with the cream cheese mix, then pipe it into small bowls/jars for serving.

Place gulab jamuns on top.

Sprinkle chopped pistachios and rose petals over, then refrigerate for later or serve immediately. These can last in the fridge for at least two days.

Serves 8.

INGREDIENTS: 1/2 litre 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.

GULAB JAMUN ICE CREAM

n

28 DECEMBER 2023

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

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

Place 1-2 gulab jamuns into the blender.

Blend for a few seconds.

Pour out into a container.

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

Place into ice cream container, and freeze for 4-6 hours.

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

Serves 4.

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Mastani A Melbourne fashion brand rises

BY PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY

S

ending her models down the runway at Melbourne Fashion Festival this year, on International Women’s Day no less, was a big deal for designer Kudrat Makkar.

“It was such an honour for me and my brand Mastani,” Makkar tells Indian Link.

“It also honoured the women we dress, many of who were in the audience.”

Her showcase presented Indian textiles in the modern context. With emphasis on bold shoulders, powerful sleeves and cinched waists, designer Kudrat Makkar’s outfits for Mastani are just as much about strength as about beauty.

This year’s event at the Royal Exhibition Building was in fact Makkar’s third appearance at the annual fashion fest.

Looking back at her first show, Makkar, 32, reveals, “It was overwhelming, to be showing alongside big names like Carla Zampatti and Jason Grech. It was a surprise actually, having been headhunted for the event.”

To see her “really small collection”, on her first major runway, became a game changer, given her brand now attracts a high-end clientele.

Founded in July 2018, this luxury designer-wear brand based in Melbourne is built on sustainability. Through Mastani, Kudrat Makkar introduces the incredible Indian traditions and craftsmanship of cultural heritage to the modern Australian market.

“Having always had an interest in fashion, I had spent a lot of time observing international brands and local Australian brands, the women that wear them, the fabrics they use, their silhouettes, their ethos. The more I observed, the more I noticed a decline in the quality of fabrics being used, garments produced en masse and the habit of quickly discarding trends and fads, even though sustainable and ethical fashion was becoming a popular movement,” she rues.

Makkar, therefore, built her brand on this idea of celebrating her roots and craft of the local Indian artisans. Mastani’s atelier is based in Bengaluru, where all garment construction is performed.

“Sometimes, the old way is the best

FASHION

Indian-born entrepreneur Kudrat Makkar’s successful sustainable fashion brand is a nod to India’s traditional artisans way – as with traditional Indian textiles and techniques which use natural locally sourced yarns/fibres, natural dyes and slow making/weaving processes all done by hand,” she explains. “This is the original and authentic ‘slow fashion’ – something I wanted to embrace to create beautiful garments, of the highest quality that would last a lifetime and beyond.”

Kudrat Makkar creates limited quantities of each fabric and garment to ensure exclusivity and minimise use of resources for Mastani. Her artisans use handmade traditional techniques and give a touch of modernity to the designs.

“Hand-looming, natural dye processes, tie-dye and hand-embroidery are some of the techniques that are integral to Mastani collections – techniques that have been passed on through generations of artisans and that I hope continue to adapt to the needs of the modern world and markets to ensure their future.”

When deciding the colour palettes and mood for each collection, Makkar says she likes to follow her instinct rather than going by the trend.

“My grounding palette for collections is decided in silk satins – often featuring elegant, muted tones or rich jewel tones that show off the incredible lustre of our hand-loomed silk. Working within the palette of natural pigments is inspiring in itself – utilising flower petals, madder root, coconut husks and indigo for example to create naturally vibrant colour and incredible prints.”

The name Mastani of course comes from the Bundelkhand princess whose story has been adapted into many movies and books.

“She challenged the stereotypes of women in her day, and I hope women feel empowered in my clothing to do the same today,” Makkar smiles. “I love to exaggerate the beautiful female form in my silhouettes but strength and confidence are just as important. My choice of fabrics and embellishments bring another dimension – linear hand-piping that creates structural form, sensual fluid silks, complex metallic jacquards reminiscent of armour, glittering mirrorembellishment to ward off the evil eye.”

Makkar also credits her parents for their influence.

Growing up in Punjab’s Jalandhar city, her mum inspired her into the world of fashion. “She would look to European designers for westerns trends and adapt them in her own way,” Makkar remembers.

“From her, I developed my love and appreciation for traditional textiles.”

Her dad, for his part, fostered a strong business mind in her. “He encouraged me to develop the resilience, confidence and passion that I have today.”

So what is next for the young entrepreneur, we ask. “I hope to expand Mastani within Australia, opening a handful of stores in select locations and one day stores overseas. That said, I am very considered in my approach to growing the brand – it is important to me to stay true to my sustainable ethos and preserve the exclusivity and limited-edition nature of Mastani.”

DECEMBER 2023 29

SPORT

Lessons from

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Key takeaways as the dust settles on Australia’s stunning rescue mission to become champions.

While cricket captains are rightly subject to greater scrutiny than captains in other sports, for various reasons Cummins appears destined to be given an especially short leash – whether because he is a rare fast-bowling captain, viewed as strategically unimaginative, or considered too “woke”.

Yet what Cummins and his team delivered in the ICC Cricket World Cup final was one of the most strategically perfect cricketing performances in the history of one-day international cricket, and Cummins led from the front with the ball, as well as in the way he used his bowlers.

He may have done it all with a smile on his face, but make no mistake: Pat Cummins is as tough as they come, and he has now cemented his legacy as one of the great leaders of his time.

BY RITAM MITRA

M

uch like England’s dramatic 2019 World Cup triumph, Australia’s staggering sixth ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 crown delivered a story for the ages, in a tournament that seemed destined as a coronation for the Kohli / Sharma era of Indian cricket.

There were plenty of memorable moments, but let’s take a look at the key takeaways from this edition:

PERFECT PAT: CUMMINS CEMENTS HIS LEGACY AS A GREAT

It’s entirely possible that no captain will ever again emulate what Pat Cummins has managed in 2023, having retained the Ashes, and won both an ICC World Test Championship and ICC Cricket World Cup – in each case away from home.

Impressively, Cummins did so in the face of unrelenting and often unfair criticism.

30 DECEMBER 2023

INDIA SHOOTS ITSELF IN THE FOOT… AGAIN

Pat Cummins has cemented his legacy as one of the great leaders

At some point in the future, it may become apparent to India’s army of coaching staff and to the BCCI more generally: slower, lower pitches are no friend to modern India.

In years gone by, India has of course struggled with pace bowling; the best evidence being that India’s current crop

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of fast bowlers would walk into any Indian team of the preceding 50 years. And as India’s batters have become accustomed to playing quality pace bowling in the nets, it follows that they have become more prolific against fast bowling in match conditions.

In fact, some have become reliant on pace – look no further than the likes of Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav, each of whom enjoys using the pace of the ball in how they bat, and each of whom failed in the final on a slow, dead wicket.

While casual cricket supporters will typically complain about “pitch doctoring”, those who truly understand the game will appreciate the irony: because the slower the pitch, the more level the playing field and, given the dew factor in India, the more likely the match will be decided by the toss.

South Africa cannot catch a break when it comes to World Cup semi-finals. Their defeat to Australia this edition marked the Proteas’ seventh defeat from seven World Cup semi-finals.

It’s perhaps one of the longest losing finals streaks in professional sport, and has been marked over the years by scarcely believable losses from seemingly unassailable positions.

With no expectations placed on South Africa leading into the tournament – given its penchant for self-capitulation – the side largely went under the radar while dominating the group stages, barring a hiccup against the Netherlands and a horrific loss to India. Boasting a positively fearsome batting order and a quality bowling lineup, leading into the semifinals the side appeared destined to go one step further.

But the batting order failed at the worst possible time once again, against a rampant Australian attack. While it marked yet another failure for South Africa at the semi-final stage, whether it was a true “choke” is open for debate, because – unlike several occasions in years gone by – this time South Africa never looked in control of the game before losing it.

Pics: X

SOUTH AFRICA: DON’T SAY THE C-WORD

The Sharma/Kohli era is likely at an end, at least in World Cups

SA: Seventh defeat in seven semi-finals.

THERE ARE NO MINNOWS

Historically, lower-ranked cricket nations have either been discarded as Associate nations, or “minnows”.

The 2023 World Cup proved once again that, given an opportunity, these sides have the capability to match it with the best.

In previous World Cups, those victories have been mere flashes in the pan; think Bangladesh over India in 2007, and Netherlands and Ireland over England in 2011, and Ireland over the West Indies in 2015.

This year was different, however, with Afghanistan demonstrating sustained and consistent success to come sixth – and very nearly qualifying for the semi-finals along the way, but for Glenn Maxwell’s miracle knock of 201*.

It’s a reminder that playing in a World Cup is no longer a right, but a privilege, given the qualification pathways that teams have to go through. Just ask the West Indies, who missed a World Cup for the first time in history after a disastrous qualifying campaign.

It’s also yet another wake-up call for teams and fans who might otherwise take lower-ranked nations lightly.

Afghanistan: Lower-ranked nations can no longer be taken lightly

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DECEMBER 2023 31

TRAVEL

Lagune Verde

Salar de Uyuni

Boundless Bolivia Bolivia is home to some of the most dramatic and unique landscapes in the world BY RITAM MITRA

B

olivia is perhaps best known as home to Salar de Uyuni - the largest salt flat on the planet.

But the country features an array of diverse and dramatic landscapes from barren, high-altitude Andean peaks, to the density of the lush Amazon rainforest.

Unlike many of its neighbouring countries, tourism is underdeveloped in Bolivia. Recent political unrest has not helped the cause: a disputed 2019 election continues to impact the country’s stability, and at the time of my visit, there’s a spate of protests that prevent me from travelling further north to the larger cities of La Paz and Santa Cruz.

But the reduced accessibility comes with its positives. The country is extremely affordable, untouched, and underpinned by an innate sense of raw adventure and discovery.

32 DECEMBER 2023

CROSSING THE BORDER INTO BOLIVIA

Despite the protests in central Bolivia, a few days in the country’s south is enough to experience the famous Bolivian extremes.

In the company of two friends, I enter Bolivia from San Pedro de Atacama in Chile’s far north – itself a stunning desert town that merits a visit.

A guided tour is advisable, at least in rural Bolivia. There are no paved roads, the distance between towns is vast, and Bolivia has some of Latin America’s lowest internet penetration rates, so you won’t have the safety net of connectivity. An added challenge is the threat of altitude sickness, so we’ve also taken diuretics in preparation for the ascent.

LAKES AT ALTITUDE

A rooster at Valle de las Rocas

The terrain would be impenetrable but for our 4WDs, which take us to our first stop, Laguna Verde (Green Lake) and Laguna Blanca (White Lake); two adjacent mineral-rich salt lakes in the sprawling 7,100 square kilometre Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve.

Despite the harsh desert environment, it’s a serene setting, punctuated by the sharp pink of wading flamingoes against the backdrop of the towering Licancabur volcano.

After a quick dip at the natural Termales de Polques hot springs, we arrive at the Sol de Mañana (Morning Sun) geyser field. It’s an area of intense volcanic activity, with boiling and bubbling mud pots and the

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Isla

a Incahuasi

distinct smell of sulphur permeating the air – all at an altitude of nearly 5,000 metres above sea level.

The final stop of the day is the Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon). The vast salt lake is one of the most other-worldly landscapes in South America and is recognised alongside Salar de Uyuni as Bolivia’s most incredible natural wonder. Its blood-red lake – which gets its colour from red sediments and algae in the water – is less than a metre deep, but spans some 6,000 hectares, and is home to large llama and flamingo populations.

As the day draws to a close, we chew on coca leaves and drink mate de coca (coca tea) to head off mild symptoms of altitude sickness.

TRAVEL NOTEBOOK How to get there: It’s not straightforward for Australian travellers, but it’s well worth the effort. You can either enter Bolivia from San Pedro de Atacama in Chile, which is a short flight and bus ride away from Santiago, or fly to La Paz and take a tour south to Uyuni.

What to do: It’s best to use a well-reviewed local tour operator once you’ve selected your starting point – these tours are all-inclusive and Englishspeaking guides are available for a modest additional cost, meaning you won’t have any decisions to make.

When to go: The dry season (between May to October) is usually the best time to visit Bolivia, but it’s less crowded in the wet season (between December to April), and you’ll see more flamingos too.

The dollars and cents: An all-inclusive three-day tour of southern Bolivia costs around $400. Factor in an additional $3,000 to $4,000 for return and internal flights from Australia’s east coast.

ROCKY RAVINES

The next day, we visit any geologist’s dream, the Valle de las Rocas (Valley of Rocks). It’s a valley littered with unusual rock formations caused by centuries of wind erosion and volcanic activity – and many take familiar forms that the child in you can’t help but climb, including the FIFA World Cup trophy, a camel, or a giant rooster. Our guide points these out to us as we drive, a reminder of the Incas’ fondness for giving meaning to shapes in nature.

We stop briefly at a tiny, seemingly deserted town where the Germans and Australians in our group opt to sample local beers, despite the advice against consuming alcohol at altitude.

INCA HUASI AND SALAR DE UYUNI

San Juan village

The next day, we set off from our salt hostel for Salar de Uyuni, where we catch the sunrise.

Given the freezing temperatures, it’s not only breathtaking but very welcome when the first warm, golden rays hit the 10,500 square kilometre plain (making the salt flats only slightly smaller than the entire Sydney area).

As the sun starts beating down on us, we head to Isla Incahuasi (House of the Inca), which is easily the most surreal stop of our tour. It’s an isolated outcrop of land in the middle of the salt flat that is covered in gigantic cacti – some of which are more than 1,000 years old and tower over 10 metres tall.

We wrap up our tour with obligatory salt flat photos, playing with perspective thanks to the seemingly endless expanse of blindingly white terrain and the reluctant horizon.

DECEMBER 2023 33

ENTERTAINMENT

cineTALK

Worth waiting for?

You decide!

As 2023 comes to a close, Indian cinema has not slowed down - some of this year’s biggest films are yet to be released. Here’s what’s on SUHAYLA SHARIF’s watchlist this month

DUNKI (In cinemas)

ANIMAL (In cinemas)

It is truly the most wonderful time of the year with King Khan’s next Hindi adventure comedy rounding off a whirlwind 12-month reign. Rajkumar Hirani’s Dunki diverges from Khan’s previous two blockbusters – it’s a light-hearted story on the immigration struggles of many Indians in the pursuit for a better life. Joined by Tapsee Pannu and Vicky Kaushal, could this be 3 for 3 in 2023 for the box office baadshah?

Releasing 21 Dec

A mobster with major daddy issues is on the prowl for anyone who attempts to tarnish his father’s name. Ranbir Kapoor’s Hindi action thriller is a twisted father-son tale that is just as gory as it is glorious. There are some extreme measures here to seek paternal validation but this film could be a reality check for other desi first-borns who have yet to receive a pat on the back from their parents.

Releasing 1 Dec

SAM BAHADUR (In cinemas) Rise from your seats to salute Sam Manekshaw, India’s first field marshal and the historical figure central to this Hindi biopic. We go back to the 1971 Indo-Pak war and learn about the brave officer who led the liberation of Bangladesh. Vicky Kaushal’s powerful portrayal of Manekshaw, alongside Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh, brings to life a page in India’s history. Releasing 1 Dec

SALAAR: PART 1- CEASEFIRE (In cinemas) Prabhas fans finally rejoice as this highly anticipated action release comes their way. After several delays, the first instalment of the Salaar series marks the return of an Indian cinema icon. Shruti Hassan and Prithviraj Sukumaran will also dazzle in what may be this year’s biggest Telugu blockbuster.

Releasing 22 Dec

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

Please contact at ausind26@gmail.com.

34 DECEMBER 2023

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THE ARCHIES (Netflix) Riverdale has had a desi reboot with some of B-Town’s most famous fresh faces making their debut in this upcoming Hindi series. Featuring a stellar cast (Suhana Khan, Khushi Kapoor, Agastya Nanda) as well as being directed by Zoya Akhtar, talent runs through the veins of the star creatives here. Will this be a retro rewind to remember, or a nepo-baby nightmare?

Releasing 7 Dec

CHRISTMAS AS USUAL (Netflix)

TUNGKULUNGE EKEN: KHUNER AGE KHUNI KHOJA (HoiChoi) Eken Babu welcomes you to the jungle in this Bengali adventure film that you’ll need your binoculars for. After traversing mountains and deserts laced with mystery this droll detective now straps on his hiking boots. Led

by Anirban Chakrabarti, this comedic joy ride is the perfect flick for a Friday night with the family.

Releasing 8 Dec

ANNAPOORANI: THE GODDESS OF FOOD (In cinemas)

Honestly more unusual than usual, funny man Kanan Gill has ditched the stage for the snow as he makes an unexpected appearance in this Norwegian holiday romcom. While it is quite rare to see an Indian comedian taking on a Scandinavian Christmas, perhaps the spirit of the season is enough to unite holiday goers far and wide. Good on Kanan for trying to spread the Christmas cheer this year!

Releasing 6 Dec

KADAK SINGH (Zee5)

Bow down to the new devi of delicious food Nayanthara! The A-list actor has her apron on for this Tamil drama that follows one woman’s dream to become India’s best chef. Also starring Sathyaraj and Jai, could this be a sweet treat for all cinephile foodies?

Releasing 1 Dec

Known for his comedic wit, Pankaj Tripathi will be seen in a new form in this dark and disturbing Hindi thriller. A man whose memory is his biggest weakness, is left fending for answers as his mind plays tricks with the truth. A cinematic spiral into multiple perspectives will see an incredibly talented cast shine through the film’s shadows.

Releasing 8 Dec

JORAM (In cinemas)

HI NANNA (In cinemas) When love tangles a single father and a potential partner in this Telugu rom-com, it will take his young daughter to untie the knots of their turbulent love story. Telugu stars Nani and Mrunal Thakur lead this heart-warming film. Take some tissues you wouldn’t want to be bawling into your popcorn.

Releasing 21 Dec

DHOOTHA (Amazon Prime Video) Please welcome to the OTT scene Naga Chaitanya with this Telugu thriller series! In this nail-biting eight-episode series with more unknowns than answers, fans can expect a rollercoaster ride. Prachi Desai, Parvathy Thiruvothu and Priya Bhavani Shanker also star in this gripping supernatural saga.

Releasing 1 Dec

Having already made headlines around the world, this critically acclaimed Hindi thriller will have you at the edge of your seat. Screened at the Sydney Film Festival and IFFM this year, this captivating drama follows the story of a father on the run from his past with his infant daughter. Dodging the ruins of a crumbling system, one man’s journey will have you reflecting on your own.

Releasing 8 Dec

OPERATION VALENTINE (In cinemas) Don’t be fooled by the title, this Telugu-Hindi action drama is far from romantic. India’s queen of hearts Manushi Chhillar has ditched the dresses for an air force uniform as she takes to the skies. Based on a true story, Chhillar is paired with Varun Tej here.

Releasing 8 Dec

MARTIN (In cinemas)

EXTRA ORDINARY MAN (In cinemas)

One man’s struggle with his identity forms the foundation for this action-packed Kannada release.

Funnily the main character’s name isn’t even Martin, it’s Arjun… but could a dramatic journey through India and Pakistan have what it takes to change his fate? Dhruva Sarja is in the spotlight for a film that grapples the complexity of family, fury, and freedom.

Releasing 22 Dec

Find your capes and supersuits, this upcoming Telugu entertainer will present the new normal for Indian heroes. Featuring dynamic duo Nithiin and Sreeleela, this intriguing release puts a comedic spin on conventional action films as our hero gravitates more toward zero. Definitely worth a watch if you’re craving something different from Indian cinema.

Releasing 8 Dec DECEMBER 2023 35

BACKCHAT DEAR AUNTYJI My wife and I work as software developers, and have lived in Australia for eight years. We really enjoy our roles, however we have noticed one thing that bothers us. Whenever we get a team lead who is of Indian origin, he (it’s always a he) treats us… not very nicely.

He will be almost rude to us, giving us orders, interrupting us, and generally behaving in a boss-like manner. Even though we work at separate companies, we’ve observed the same behaviours. We have worked as contractors and as permanents, but the behaviour is the same. And the tricky thing is this. The Indian team lead/manager changes his behaviour whenever he deals with local Australians, or even Indians who have been brought up here. It’s as though the manager has a sixth sense and knows that we would rather go with the flow. Can you please give us some guidance on how to deal with this behaviour? It is tiring and annoying and apart from leaving the job, I can’t see how to address it.

When desi-to-desi is not easy

AUNTYJI SAYS Oh my goodness! Some of my friends have told me that same thing - that Indian people tend to treat other Indian people a bit poorly, especially if they are lower on the hierarchical ladder in the organisation. This is a very tricky situation to navigate - especially because most non-Indian people, or white people, don’t know how to address this issue. First, they don’t want to talk about cultural differences, and second, they

ASK AUNTYJI

worry that they will be seen as racist or biased if they say anything. So, here are two ways you can address the situation. One. All the companies that work in technology tend to have staff meetings or Town Halls or All Hands. Many times, the leaders tend to invite their people to post questions or concerns. Sometimes you can do this anonymously. You must bring this topic up, if you want this behaviour to change. Use neutral language and explain what the situation is. For example,

Do you have a question for Auntyji? Email it to info@indianlink.com.au

say, “Some of our managers have a cultural background - and demonstrate behaviours that do not align with Australian values and norms. When can we expect some cultural sensitivity training for our people leaders?” Keep asking this question - politely and professionally until you see something happen.

Keep in mind that HR will probably run around trying to assess the extent of the problem and you may be asked to provide feedback - all anonymous of course. Speak up - or hold your peace. The second way is to go find an Indian origin person who is senior and who was likely, brought up here. Become friends with them, and then tell them what is happening.

If it’s a senior enough person, sooner or later, they will start seeing it. And if they are ambitious, they will want to do something about it. The situation will change only if you are prepared to speak up. But only do so if there are others who agree with you. If only you and your wife have this issue, then I suspect the problem lies with you. But I think you are right. I too have heard this - so there must be an element of truth to it.

All the best!

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BACKCHAT

Man of the match, Mr Claus A peak inside Santa’s home as Mrs Claus helps him calm his holiday season stress BY LP AYER

I

t is well past breakfast time. Santa is still in bed. The bearded guy with a big belly and an appetite to match is usually up by dawn for his first meal of the day.

A worried Mrs Claus peeps into the bedroom to check on him.

“Claus-y, are you still asleep?” she asks as she barges in. “Wakey-wakey. Christmas is not far off.”

“Ye-es I’m up,” Santa replies. “Haven’t slept a wink. Worried sick about how I’m going to make this year’s trip safely.”

Planning his flight path is becoming more of a nightmare each year, with longrunning wars ravaging the Middle East since the early nineties. Just as the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic seemed to be coming to an end, war broke out in the Ukraine.

The latest in Israel-Gaza has made it even more perilous to travel over conflict-ridden zones to India before heading to Australia.

“Taking detours to avoid flashpoints is forcing Rudolph and his reindeers to have early starts, and the extra flight time is sapping their energy,” Santa laments.

“I understand,” Mrs Claus replies in sympathy. “But even during the two World Wars, with all of Europe so bleak, you never

failed to go on your annual mission to make the children happy.”

This is Santa’s busiest time of year. His to-do list is almost as long as his naughty and nice lists. There are toys to craft, supply chain logistics to maintain, carbon emission levels to study, and an army of elves to roster. Plus this year, with cost-of-living pressures, penalty rates and demand for higher wages to negotiate.

Not to mention, it’s getting more and more challenging to monitor the endless requests from the little ones around the world.

Gone are the days when kids took recourse to their trusty postal service to deliver handwritten letters to the North Pole.

“It’s hard to keep up,” Santa complains.

“I’m receiving messages via email, SMS, WhatsApp, Messenger, and DMs on all manner of social media platforms, even X-rated ones.”

“No, that’s just X,” Mrs Claus educates her husband.

The elves are also reporting a declining

standard of spelling and an aversion to writing full sentences. The impact of technology… U C what I mean? LOL. “And also,” Santa says to Mrs Claus.

“Talking about the kiddos, it’s breaking my heart to see so many of them losing their lives in these senseless conflicts created by grown-ups with no tolerance for each others’ faiths. It’s

supposed to be a time of goodwill! I don’t even know what to give them.”

“Have you tried Googling for ideas?” Mrs Claus says helpfully.

“I have,” Santa replies, even sadder.

“Retailers’ shelves come up - stacked with plastic replicas of AK47s, water pistols, and the like. I’m scraping the barrel here for ideas!”

Mrs Claus strokes his arm.

“Claus-y, when it comes to making children happy, you’re a class act. I’m sure you’ll think up something extra special this time.”

“Got it!” Santa exclaims, jumping out of bed. “Miniature Cricket World Cup trophies for every kid in India, to make up for a national loss!”

Mrs Claus claps her hands in glee.

“Wonderful, Claus-y! Turn them into hats, so it goes straight to their heads… and, er, not under the feet. And what about Aussie kids?”

“A mini bat each!” Santa’s on a roll.

“Because their two batters MAXImised their chance at the semi-final, and helped to get aHEAD in the end!”

“My captain!” gushes Mrs Claus as they dash downstairs to get the team started.

DECEMBER 2023 37

FORETELL

December 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 fiery Aries draws the Leo card: expect a dramatic month.

Singles will meet someone new and it will be a passionate affair; or someone could reveal how they feel about you. The self-employed will have an upswing in their business affairs.

Some of you may focus on spiritual growth, while others may want to share their experience with younger folks. A marriage could end as you no longer accept what was. Postpone making major decisions.

The practical bull draws the card of the dreamy Piscean so they can expect a burst of creativity. A new relationship may be progressing slower than you like. Avoid fights with your landlord or property matters as you could be at a loss. Some of you may be fed up of your spouse’s emotional immaturity. You will be rewarded for a job well done. If doing any selfhelp work for healing, you will be successful. Plan your work and work your plan.

Abundance is with you along with a feeling of contentment. Make sure you share your good fortune with others.

Travel for leisure or work is predicted.

Those in a relationship might find themselves growing apart. The selfemployed could get extra work. Watch what you eat as you could get really sick.

Money comes from multiple sources including a debt being paid to you.

Find new ways to do your work for best results. Put off immediate gratification for a happier mindset.

Avoid getting into arguments just to prove a point this month. Singles will meet someone they will find very attractive, and the feeling will be mutual. A promotion on the job too is indicated. Take help from a third party to resolve relationship issues. Someone you know could fall ill. An opportunity for new business could turn out to be very profitable. Luck is with you all December. Financial gains are definitely coming your way. A good time to start something new.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

JULY 21 - AUG 22

AUG 23 - SEP 22

SEP 23 - OCT 22

OCT 23 - NOV 21

You have to ask yourself what are you holding on to. It is time to let go before your pet peeve becomes toxic. Some of you may get a job offer or new business if self-employed. Those in a relationship will maintain an uneasy calm. Avoid binge drinking during Christmas and New Year parties. You have multiple avenues to make money at your disposal. Those procrastinating will get their act together and start pursuing their goals. Nourish your emotional needs with inner child healing.

Sudden occurrences, not all positive, could shake you this month. Drive carefully to avoid accidents. A rocky relationship could come to an end. A new opportunity will come through all the current chaos. Watch out for medical bills shooting up. A sudden loss of income or shutting down of your company could also come by so save some money for the near future. But a new idea or opportunity will take its place so don’t lose hope. Trust your intuition.

A difficult month for some as relationships break down, health takes a downturn and possible betrayal breaks your heart. The worst though is over and the only way from here is up. Use this time to face reality, change your selfdestructive habits and set boundaries.

Some of you may quit your job or may even be asked to quit. Cry so you get relief from your pain. Money problems dissolve and you have a good amount coming to you. Avoid being pessimistic.

Singles may not be ready to mingle due to a recent break-up. Home improvement is on the anvil. A deep sorrow could hold you back from healing completely. De-stress by taking a short vacation. Relationship problems will get resolved soon. Money delayed will come through and you will earn from multiple sources. What feels like a loss now will be the beginning of something better. Delays work in your favour. Be grateful for everything you have now; don’t make rash decisions.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 18

PISCES

FEB 19 - MARCH 20

One of the best cards in the packs indicates you are completing one cycle and another one is beginning.

Look forward to new beginnings and money from multiple sources coming to you. A sudden trip could bring you a new opportunity. Those who are seeing a lull in work or business will soon have an upswing, and they will have more than they can cope with coming their way. Take a second opinion for a health issue.

A good month full of positive energy. Some of you may face problems with paperwork.

There could be an engagement or a pregnancy announcement in the family.

New funds are coming in and a matter that caused stress will be resolved satisfactorily.

Avoid doing business with friends. Singles who are dating may not want to go forward.

The self-employed may have to put a new project on hold. For existing problems on the personal and professional front, first seek clarity, then take a decision.

A month of abundance – financially and in other ways –will keep you busy. Expect repeat work and interactions with those in power. You could receive praise and validation for work done from seniors.

Travel for work will be successful. Creative writers will have a busy time. Singles could meet someone who is possibly a Gemini.

Those in a relationship will have to restore the balance and stop being the givers all the time. All-round health will improve, and you can expect spiritual growth.

Those in a relationship might see it end due to various reasons. Avoid travel if you can. At work, conflicts can be avoided or resolved if you control your reactions, rather than make confrontations. Your partner could be having a clandestine affair; singles who meet someone new should double check their marital status. Money owed to you will come but not as much as you had hoped. If going through a bad patch, remember, this too shall pass.

NOV 22 - DEC 21

38 DECEMBER 2023

DEC 22 - JAN 19

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DECEMBER 2023 39

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