2025_APRIL_SYD

All things Indian. In Australia.

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APRIL 2025

Vol. 32 No. 7

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EDITORIAL All things Indian. In Australia.

PUBLISHER Pawan Luthra

No guts, no glory - and no political upsets

EDITOR Rajni Anand Luthra CONTRIBUTORS Torsha Sen, Lakshmi Ganapathy, Khushee Gupta, Sruthi Sajeev, Apoorva Tandon, Nidhi Panicker, Ruchi Lamba, Charmaine O’Brien, Sumathi Krishnan, Minal Khona, Auntyji SALES AND MARKETING Charu Vij GRAPHIC DESIGN Shailesh Tinker Indian Link is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Indian Link, may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written consent of the editor. Opinions carried in Indian Link are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Indian Link. All correspondence should be addressed to:

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

BY PAWAN LUTHRA

A

s the 2025 Federal Election campaign meanders to its inevitable close, the two burning issues for Australians at large have been housing challenges and energy prices. Neither major party has come up with viable solutions. In fact, this election has become a textbook example of how to make sweeping statements without offering any real substance.

Experts agree there are feasible solutions to these two pressing challenges but implementing them on a national scale requires either strong, decisive leadership, or genuine bipartisan cooperation across the political divide. In today’s climate, bipartisan cooperation seems unlikely - as evidenced by the sharp divisions during the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum. And with the rise of online vitriol and 'keyboard warriors', it’s increasingly doubtful whether any political leader has the courage to drive real, transformative change.

Looking back at key moments in Australia's political history, one must

remember February 2008, when Prime Minister Kevin Rudd issued a formal apology to Indigenous Australians, particularly the Stolen Generations.

John Howard deserves recognition for two landmark achievements: the 1996 gun reforms and the 2000 introduction of the GST. Earlier, in the mid-1980s, the Hawke-Keating government ushered in financial deregulation and the compulsory superannuation system.

Each of these reforms represented bold leadership and a commitment to shaping the nation's future.

Today, any meaningful debate on housing must begin with a fundamental question: is housing a basic social necessity, or is it primarily a vehicle for wealth creation? Over the past 30 years, property has widely become a pillar of wealth creation. Governments have offered all sorts of tax concessions - tax deductions and discounts in capital gains tax, and opened more doors through vehicles such as superannuation funds, to excite people to invest in property. The emergence of platforms like Airbnb has added to the lure of property as investment.

Currently, 1.2 million Australians - 60% of whom earn a taxable income under $80,000 per year - benefit from government and tax incentives that encourage continued

investment in property. It’s doubtful that any political leader would risk any policies that might dampen the aspirations of the voter group categorised as ‘the Aussie battlers’ to create ever-expanding property portfolios.

Electricity and energy prices are hurting all Australians and businesses. What both sides are offering are band-aid solutions at best; neither is showing any signs of addressing the root of the problem, that foreign companies have in place lucrative contracts which give them access to cheap gas in Australia.

Australia has consistently ranked among the top three global exporters of LNG, alongside Qatar and the United States, with key sale markets including Japan, South Korea, and India.

Despite this abundance, foreign companies operating these exports continue to reap profits from their international operations. Ironically, Australian gas is often sold at lower prices overseas - such as in Japan - than it is domestically, highlighting a deeply flawed energy pricing system.

At the risk of hurting investments or existing contracts, political leaders need to go deeper into this issue and take the fight on for all Australians.

Housing and energy continue to remain political kryptonite for both major parties this election, and possibly beyond.

APRIL 2025 5

CONTENTS SPECIAL FEATURES AUSVOTES Indian-origin candidates

16

COMEDY FESTIVAL

20

It’s raining Indian comics

AUTISM

23

FOOD

25

When love is loud

Makhanas: The backstory

DOCUMENTARY Anita Barar’s Finding Grandpa

6 APRIL 2025

28

16

20

23

25

COVER STORY INDIAN LINK FEDERAL ELECTION SURVEY 2025 Voters say, keep things as they are.

10

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Driving on less than five hours of sleep?

You’re putting you and your family at risk.

When you drive on less than five hours of sleep, you are four times more likely to crash.

Do not drive tired. Consider an alternative mode of transport, postponing your trip, or get more sleep before driving.

APRIL 2025 7

YOUR SAY ON THE HINDU VOTE In Indian Link’s Federal Election 2025 survey conducted this month, one question addressed the substantial funding promises made to Hindu organisations by both major political parties. It drew the highest volume of commentary across the entire questionnaire.

Here are some comments from the 22% who agreed that religion-specific announcements are appropriate: • I think it is important to make us count as a significant vote bank.

• Well, the small Jewish groups get all sorts of benefits so why shouldn't Hindus?

• There seems to be an over pandering to the Muslim vote. Hindus need to assert identity and be heard.

• As one of the fastest growing migrant communities in Australia, and also those who suffer highly from cost-of-living pressures and crackdowns on student policies, I am happy for our politicians to be making statements aimed at Hindu communities. It also has inclusivity benefits.

• Good.

• Hindu temples and Hindus have been targeted recently in Australia and some safety or priority needs to given to safety. Hindus are generally peace living people and also contribute a lot to the economy. Mostly both family members work hard to ensure they are doing well in the country they chose to migrate.

• Other communities get much more attention.

• The Hindu community is a growing and increasingly important bloc of voters.

• It is good. You should have asked similar question for Muslim community as pre-election commitments announced for them too. This shows your bias mindset. Not fair journalism.

• Why are you only asking about Hindu policies - there are Indian Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians too. Stop being divisive first.

And from the 53% of respondents who expressed dissatisfaction with the move: • These sorts of commitments only come about during election time... there has to be consistency plus there needs to be evidence-based support to rationalise such support. Right now it's merely money for votes and that's not the kind of dependency we want to create in our community.

• It's a gimmicky thing to do - aiming to grab votes from the community.

Policies should be fair and common to all Australians regardless of culture.

Policies should be made to reflect cultural inclusion - not directly to regulate a religion or culture.

• There is no real connection or relationship here other than seeking votes, which is disingenuous and therefore a complete lie. Not the best way to have any meaningful relationship.

• These pledges are offered out at election times only and religion should not be part of politics. Every human should be treated equal.

• Governments should be secular.

• This is Australia so Hindu-specific policies have no place here.

• Policies should be for all and not different for specific religions.

• Religion should not be involved in any decision involving the country or the country's workings. Also, we need to tax religious organisations.

• I don’t believe in differentiation by religion.

• Typical vote bank politics.

• We are a secular country.

• Divide and rule. Very dangerous.

• Keep religion away from politics, it’s a dangerous game....it divides communities.

• Policy should not be for religion groups.

• It's pandering.

• There's no need to further amplify the divide already existing within religious communities.

• This is Indian style policy, not Western values.

• Policies tied to a religion is always a slippery slope. See the current state of India!

• It’s either vote buying or currying favours with others • It divides the Australian community. They need to focus more on the First Nations people.

• It’s discrimination.

• Policies should be fair and equitable.

• Secularism is important in a democracy • It behooves the government to uphold social cohesion • Political parties are doing this just to get Hindu votes • We live in Australia and should have equal policies for all. I think Hindus are treated pretty well compared to other minority groups and Aboriginal people.

• Hindu policy wouldn’t help the entire Indian diaspora as not all of us are Hindu.

• Hindus are not a homogenous group and have different values and beliefs.

Playing on cultural groups is divisive and reflects wealth and cultural capital.

Not ok.

• When you migrate to another country, it's important not to assert dominance based solely on the number of people from your religious community.

• I like my politics to be non-discriminatory. Else we are going down the road of 8 APRIL 2025

politics in India and USA. It is dirty and corrupt.

• As a religiously agnostic person, I believe politics shouldn't have anything to with religion (whatever is the equivalent of the principle of 'separation of church and state'). I believe there should be no special favours or exemptions for any religions and/or religious bodies.

• Religion should stay outside of all this.

• Indian immigrants are of diverse backgrounds so (policy announcements) shouldn't be Hindu-specific • Inclusion should not be viewed as a privilege. It’s a treatment everyone deserves to receive.

• Religion and politics don’t mix.

• Unnecessary.

• Any pandering to Hindu Nationalist extremism is toxic and horrendous • Not needed for specific religious groups. Hindus have received enough support from Australian and Modi Governments.

• Religion must be kept away from politics.

• The rise of far-right extremism and nationalist rhetoric in India has been fuelled by prioritising Hindu beliefs above others, as superior or more worthy.

This should not happen in a proudly and historically secular, inclusive country like India - and should extend to its diaspora in Australia.

• They don’t know enough to make policies about other religions • Already the Hindu community gets enough support from its own government - no additional support needed.

• If they're only targeting specific communities, it begs the question of why?

What are their motives? Why are they trying to buy a vote?

• Policies should be for all and not different for specific religions • Why Hindu? India is more than just Hindu. The Indian community is more than just Hindu. That's just politicians pandering and ignoring the rise of Hindu fascism in India.

• We should practice our faith in our way without being a burden on the wider society • Tokenism does not serve the community and reinforces the belief they are easily placated, and therefore expendable.

• Goes against the fundamental essence of the law. If such a policy/law is to be announced, it needs to be aimed at ‘religious communities’ at large rather than a specific community • Government needs to govern for all. Religious people are a minority within a minority. People who have Hindu heritage are not necessarily Hindu.

• Inclusivity.

• Does not solve any problems • Multicultural instincts go a long way in promoting human relationships.

• In a multicultural country like Australia, it is important to make policy announcements that consider all communities equally.

• I feel that India's strength is in its secularism.

• I don't want to see religion linked to politics.

• I support cultural inclusion but balanced with fairness to all (e.g. holiday greetings) • Making community or religion specific announcements to please certain community groups happy is not a good policy in the long run. It creates divide and it is not appropriate for political parties to engage in pleasing political agenda. There should be a genuine try to understand which religious minority group contributes positively in building a prosperous and peaceful Australia.

• This question should not be framed for Hindus only. It should be framed in general for all religions announcements.

HOW DO WE BUILD A MORE INCLUSIVE AUSTRALIA? PAWAN LUTHRA sat down with Julian Hill, Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs to talk social cohesion and multiculturalism.

Julian Hillreposted: These days, some of the most thoughtful journalism is with independent multicultural media. (Thanks for the interview. Really enjoyed our discussion.)

Dr Fotis Kapetopoulos wrote: Great to see Indian Link at forefront of cohesion discussion.

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THIS OR THAT? You’re loving our new snap poll in the weekly e-newsletter! Here’s how the votes stacked up in the last three editions: • Five more minutes of sleep vs. One more episode: 83% - 17% • Weekend = Running errands, attending events, being a functioning adult vs. Mysteriously becoming one with the couch: 50% – 50% • Rooh Afza vs. Lemonade: 80% - 20%

WHEN RG KAR VICTIM’S DAD SPOKE TO AN ADELAIDE AUDIENCE NILANJANA SARKER reported from the Adelaide Fringe about Paramita Roy’s play ‘Cry of the Hour’, which calls for justice in Kolkata’s ‘Abhaya’ case.

Kittu Randhawa wrote: Activism comes in many ways, the arts and comedy are so often a cutting way of getting complex messages through. Shows like this one and Kersherka’s Behind Closed Doors give the audience a thought-provoking insight to what are confronting issues. #ViolenceAgainstWomen has become normalised and that has to change!!! Being confronted or uncomfortable is the easy part. The victims and their families are already doing the hard yards.

Paramita Roy wrote: Thank you Nilanjana Sarker for sharing this story. Our activism will not rest until justice is served. This is our solemn promise to Mrs and Mr Debnath. Abhaya’s global family stands united in purpose, and we will not stop!

CREATING CULTURALLY SAFE SPACES IN CRICKET Given a recent Scanlon Foundation finding that South Asian-run clubs boost inclusion, RITAM MITRA took a closer look at his own Cricket Club in Sydney.

Vanessa Murray wrote: Thank you for covering my report It's not just cricket, for the Scanlon Foundation Research. I appreciate the personal twist from the writer. There are so many strong multicultural club stories out there, just waiting to be told.

Tracey Holmes wrote: It’s one of Australia’s great untold sports stories. Am glad it is getting some traction because it is an important story to tell.

PINNING THE CREEP: CYBERSAFETY FOR WOMEN PRUTHA CHAKRABORTY chatted with Nakshathra Suresh, who’s helping make the digital world safer for all.

Sriraman Annaswamy wrote: Great to see someone who's not an engineer or a computer scientist giving it a go in the cybersecurity field and that too in a niche area such as cyber-criminology.

Well done Nakshathra, and all the very best! Solid and informative article as always, Indian Link.

Nakshathra Suresh wrote: A massive thank you to Prutha Bhosle, Rajni Luthra and the team at Indian Link Media Group for the feature in their March 2025 issue. I grew up reading Indian Link and to have a full page dedicated to my professional growth is such a pinch-me moment!

Divya Bipin, Preethi Mohan, Soni Charanjeet and Sneha Sathpathy Mahajan also wrote in with messages of appreciation.

FACING AUTISM AND AGGRESSION: AN UNFOLDING JOURNEY In Autism Awareness Month, RUCHI LAMBA opens up in a deeply personal piece about navigating her journey of raising a child with autism.

Preeti N wrote: You are an amazing mum.

Manisha Verma wrote: It takes courage to open your heart and let others into such a personal part of your life. Ruchi, your love, strength, and dedication shine through every word, and it's clear that your son is surrounded by the kind of support and understanding every child deserves.

Your journey is a powerful reminder that every child sees the world in their own beautiful way - and that love, patience, and acceptance can create space for them to thrive. You’re not just advocating for your son; you’re also helping others feel seen, heard, and less alone. That matters more than you know.

You’re doing an amazing job, even on the hard days. Your son is lucky to have you - and so is the autism community. Keep sharing, keep inspiring, and know that there’s a whole world of people standing with you.

Vidya Bhardwaj wrote: Thanks for this, Ruchi. Keep shining and keep sharing: this provides hope and inspiration for others.

Sona Sinha wrote: Beautifully written. Salute to Ruchi for her journey as a mum.

Love and respect.

WHERE IN INDIA A snow-covered valley? Hmm, no. It’s a marble slurry dumping yard that’s become a hotspot for photo shoots.

WHERE IN OZ This red desert-inspired landscape sits in which Australian garden?

Readers Savita Sardana and Bhanu Kothari got the right answer: Royal Botanical Garden in Cranbourne, VIC Reader Shabina Hussain got the lone right answer: Kishangarh in Rajasthan.

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COVER STORY

STEADY AS

Indian Link Federal Election Survey 20

By PAWAN LUTHRA and RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

I

INDIAN COMMUNITY FEDERAL ELECTION 2025 SURVEY RESULTS

n an Indian Link survey to gauge voting intentions within the Indian community in Australia, the Australian Labor Party (ALP) under its leader Anthony Albanese has emerged as the clear frontrunner, receiving majority of support.

Standing out clearly as a liability for Coalition leader Peter Dutton, was the election of Donald Trump in the United States — and the perceived ideological alignment between the Republican Party and Australia’s Liberal-National Coalition.

This, along with electioneering backflips on issues such as work from home and cutting down on public sector jobs, seem to have turned more people off than brought in supporters.

Indian Link’s Federal Election Survey 2025 was conducted between 11 and 21 April, just as both parties launched their campaigns.

The online election survey drew responses from 1,053 participants nationwide.

The largest age group represented was 35–54 years (44.7%), followed by 55–64 (19.2%), over 65 (18.3%), and 18–34 (16.5%). A small number of respondents chose not to disclose their age.

In terms of gender, responses were skewed, with 61% identifying as male and 36% as female. The remaining 3% identified as other or chose not to disclose their gender.

Australia’s Indian community is actively courted by all major political parties - and for good reason. With numbers approaching one million (though not all are eligible voters), Indian-Australians now make up nearly 4% of the national population. Their rapid growth, combined with the fact that many reside in marginal electorates, makes them a key demographic that political leaders can’t afford to ignore.

Given this growing significance, the results of this survey highlight community sentiment regarding political leanings and priorities: they provide an understanding, at this stage of the election, of how IndianAustralians are engaging, and what issues are shaping their vote.

The leading contenders: ALP vs Coalition, Albo vs Dutton In response to the question, “If an election were held today, which political party would you vote for?”, 43% of respondents indicated support for the ALP, while 27% opted for the Coalition of Liberal and National parties - highlighting a significant lead for Labor.

The Greens secured third place with 12% of the vote, followed by Independents at 7%. This lower share is largely due to the dominance of major parties in marginal electorates that many Indian-Australians call home.

About 9% were still undecided, and the Coalition may need to work harder to win over the undecideds and narrow their gap with Labor.

“The Coalition doesn’t care for working class and migrant people,” commented one respondent, while another wrote, “The ALP works for middle-income families.”

As regards preferred Prime Minister, there is no doubt in the minds of those polled: an overwhelming 70% gave their approval for Anthony Albanese.

In the comments section however, it was Peter Dutton that generated more discussion - and not favourably. Respondents voiced concerns about his leadership style, policy positions, and alignment with more extreme political stances. The volume and tone of commentary around Dutton may well highlight his perception as a polarising figure.

This also suggests that Albanese’s lead may stem less from passionate support and more from a rejection of the alternative.

“Both leaders are uninspiring at the moment, but my vote will be for Albo,” was one comment, while some others wrote “Dutton seems unsure of his leadership”, and “Dutton doesn’t give me a good vibe.”

The question “Which party will be better for the Indian-Australian community?” has typically been interesting, because the community does not vote as a bloc.

Equally, perceptions have been known to

If an election was held today, which political party would you vote for?

Anthony Albanese: Vanakkam

change, with views and attitudes shifting progressively over the course of settlement in Australia.

From a pure numbers’ viewpoint, 59% of the respondents this time round were for the status quo in Labor, while 30% favoured the Coalition. (The rest were for the Greens, a political party for which community support became apparent first in the 2022 elections).

That the ALP has been able to relate better was evident in comments such as “The ALP is pro migrants and has been supportive of all Indian events,” “Many

Who will make a better Prime Minister?

Which party will be better for the Indian-Australian community?

Peter Dutton

Undecided

Labor leaders seem genuinely interested in the community and in India,” and “It is good to observe Albo’s regard for India and its Prime Minister and senior ministers when they visit here.” Clearly “the Boss’s” appearance at the Qudos Arena is still etched in memory.

Liberal leaders have in the past managed similar connect (think ScoMo’s curry selfies and Tony Abbott sitting barefoot and cross-legged on the floor for a gurudwara meal), but not Peter Dutton thus far. (“What’s he doing here,”

Greens

Australian Labor Party

Which party do you think will offer better immigration for Australia?

W

Greens Australian Labor Party

Independent Greens

LiberalNational Coalition

10 APRIL 2025

Australian Labor Party

Anthony Albanese

Liberal National Coalition

Liberal National Coalition

Liber Natio Coali

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S SHE GOES

025: Voters say, keep things as they are flexible immigration policy,” was another comment.

Regardless, that 55% of those surveyed ticked the box for Labor on this question, may well have been a “stick-with-the-devilyou-know” attitude.

Others said they picked Labor “because they tend toward lower and more measured immigration policies than the Liberals,” and “because their balanced approach to immigration focusses on economic growth and worker protections whereas Coalition wants to reduce migration numbers and strengthen border controls to address domestic concerns,” and because they are “not thrilled with Liberals wanting to implement more rigorous visa assessments.”

Immigration has remained a thorny issue in recent years, with policymakers struggling to strike the right balance. It will continue to challenge whichever government comes in after 3 May.

Cost of living

Peter Dutton: Sat Sri Akal

someone asked at the Australian Sikh Games in Sydney recently. “Is he ticking the diversity box?”)

“Anyone but Liberal,” remarked one respondent, while another said, “LNP without Peter Dutton”.

“ALP with Greens support,” suggested a third.

There were some however who reported “None”, while one person wrote, “Their (Labor and Liberal politicians’) interactions with us in the community are really the same, so should it matter?”

Which party do you think will do a better job in addressing cost-of-living pressures?

raal onal ition

Australian Labor Party

On immigration policy None of the policies on offer seem to be capable of handling immigration, many of the respondents claimed. “Australia needs people in spite of all the baloney the politicians lecture,” one respondent wrote.

“We do not have enough people to even build the houses which are needed right now. Look at how Labor has allowed so many people in, but remember the times of the Liberal/Coalition in power - nothing was moving in DHA then. It is a joke.”

“No party has long-term, sustainable,

To what extent do you believe Donald Trump's political influence and policies in the united States have impacted political attitudes, policies, or public discourse in Australia?

Not at all A big deal

Coming down to the issue that has been in the headlines for most of the last twelve months - cost of living - we asked voters in the Indian-Australian community which party they thought would do a better job in addressing pressures.

The reputation of the Coalition of being sound economic managers did give them a boost in this section of our polling. They secured 40% of the votes but again, Labor trumped them at 60%.

The comments made for some interesting reading, with one respondent pulling us up for not including the Greens here. “Why isn't this an option here when they've been banging on about housing and cost of living???”

But others were more sanguine, one commenting, “It will take some time to improve the cost of living. Only time will tell. The world is in turmoil at present.”

Another added to this theme: “Neither party - given US tariffs and the wars across the world, there is not much either party can do at the domestic level.”

Other comments indicated the frustration at the lack of strong action in this regard.

Do you think it is appropriate for Australian political parties to make policy announcements aimed specifically at Hindu communities?

Unsure/ No opinion

A little

Yes, it reflects cultural and religious inclusion

Quite a bit Somewhat

No, policies should not target specific religious groups

“Both parties are offering sugar hits rather than structural changes”, and, “I pick none - as they both don't get it - they do what will get them re-elected”.

The Coalition’s demonstrated strengths here notwithstanding, did our results reflect, again, a ‘better the devil you know’ sentiment? Or were our respondents saying: ‘While the Coalition demonstrates strength in this particular area, their broader platform lacks substance, making the alternative party a more appealing option overall’?

The Trump effect Given Donald Trump’s influence on global politics, we asked our respondents: To what extent do you believe his political influence and policies in the United States have impacted political attitudes, policymaking, or public discourse in Australia?

The answers to this question polled had an interesting trajectory. Initially, the feedback was rather benign, with polls saying that there will be limited impact.

But then the pendulum swung, with the final - 37% saying Trump’s policies will have ‘quite a bit’ of impact and 31% ‘somewhat of an impact’ on the political discourse in Australia.

The poll was conducted just as the impact of Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs was beginning to bite, triggering a dramatic plunge in equity markets across Australia, India, and the world. Headlines spoke of a ‘bloodbath’ and ‘trillions wiped off’ global share values, underscoring for the Indian-Australian community the tangible consequences of US policies - rising costs and the spectre of stagflation.

Although both leaders Albanese and Dutton distanced themselves from the events unfolding in the US, the ideological similarities between the Liberal National party and Trump’s Republican Party were difficult to ignore by the those being polled.

Dutton’s early regard for Trump (“I will be able to work with the Trump administration Mark II to get better outcomes for Australians”, and descriptions of him such as “big thinker and a

In order of importance, rank the following issues of concern that have influenced your voting decision.

COST OF LIVING PRESSURES NATIONAL SECURITY EDUCATION SOCIAL INCLUSION WOMEN'S ISSUES HEALTHCARE

Yes, but only if similar attention is given to other communities

CLIMATE CHANGE/ ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS HOUSING

APRIL 2025 11

COVER STORY dealmaker… shrewd”) did not go down well, and that sentiment has stuck despite his sudden distancing (“I don’t know Trump …

I’ve not met him”).

Still, Trump-like elements in Dutton’s image have not helped: his populist rhetoric and anti-elitism (positioning himself as a representative of the "common man" against perceived elites), his hardline immigration policies (reducing immigration numbers and implementing stricter border controls), his climate policy scepticism (opposing renewable energy targets and advocated for nuclear power), his attacks on public media, his nationalistic slogans (“Get Australia Back on Track” paralleling Trump's “Make America Great Again”), and his suggested creation of a ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ and DOGE-style public service job cuts (which he changed later to the less problematic “hiring freeze”).

“I was concerned to see MAGA style caps in Australia’s election!” one comment said.

On policy announcements aimed specifically at Hindu communities Clearly, this was the issue that evoked the strongest response from our survey. We asked: Do you think it is appropriate for Australian political parties to make policy announcements aimed specifically at Hindu communities?

A brief background to this issue: both major parties these elections are reeling from the hostile reception they are getting from the Muslim vote. And so religion also seems to have factored into efforts to court the community vote. With Hinduism as the third largest religious group and the fastest growing religion in Australia according to Census 2021, it is an increasingly attractive vote bank. Both Labor and the Coalition have promised over $8,000,000 to help set up a Hindu school in Sydney. This after the NSW Government and Premier Chris Minns made good on an election promise to provide a sum of over $2,000,000 to the state’s Hindu community. It was important to gauge public sentiment through polling on the use of identity politics by our leaders to consolidate support among specific voter groups.

(Meanwhile, in recent days, the ALP has announced $7 million for the Murugan Temple and $2 million to a Jain group, both in Western Sydney; and $700,000 to a Sikh charity, $440,000 to the gurudwara in Officer VIC, and support for Melbourne to host the 2026 Australian Sikh Games.)

Recent discussions on the issue on public platforms like Reddit, and a Hindu-phobia article in The Australian have had vicious comments on the relevance of these schools in modern day society. One writer noted, “I want Australian kids to go to Australian schools where they all meet every kind of Australian. Rich, poor, white, nonwhite, religious upbringing, non-religious upbringing. If a parent wants to supplement their child's education with something specifically religious or cultural there is still time to have a Sunday school, something in the afternoons, or summer camps. I'd prefer that than having entire schools that are a segregated mono-cultural for 5 days a week for 12 years of a child's life.”

Another one: “It’s the classic Australian compromise: allow some gods into the budget, just not the ones that the tabloids disapprove of. The real miracle is how quickly a ‘Christian nation’ transforms into 12 APRIL 2025

a multi-faith democracy when swing seats are at stake.”

In the Indian Link poll, an overwhelming 52% strongly criticised these policy announcements aimed specifically at one religious group, picking the option “No, policies should not target specific religious groups.”

22% differed, picking the option “Yes, it does reflect cultural and social inclusion”.

Respondents who expressed support for such political outreach to the Hindu community, viewed it as recognition of their growing presence, economic contributions, and underrepresentation compared to other religious groups. (“Small Jewish groups get all sorts of benefits, so why shouldn't Hindus?” was one comment). Some felt Hindus have been overlooked or unfairly targeted, and welcomed attention from politicians as a step toward inclusivity and safety.

A large number of respondents voiced strong opposition to religion-specific political pledges, especially those targeting Hindus. Many felt such promises are opportunistic, surfacing only during election time as a form of vote-bank politics. (“It's a gimmicky thing to do - aiming to grab votes from the community,” one respondent wrote.) Critics emphasised that government policies in a secular democracy like Australia should be inclusive, equitable, and religion-neutral. They warned that mixing religion with politics is divisive, risks importing communal tensions from India, and undermines Australia’s multicultural and secular values. Others questioned the motivation behind such policies, calling them tokenistic and potentially discriminatory, especially in a diverse Indian diaspora. There was a clear call to uphold the separation of religion and state, and to resist any influence of religious identity in political decision-making.

The comments for this question reflected the sharp division which religion can incite on a public forum. (All responses are

featured on our Your Say column on Page 8 this issue).

20% of respondents said they agreed with the Hindu-specific policy announcements as long as similar benefits are provided to other groups also. Interestingly, most in this category came from the younger age groups.

(There is evidence that Gen Z individuals tend to favour equality among all religious groups and value inclusivity and secularism over asserting a singular religious identity.

Reasons for this have been cited as their diverse upbringing, value for authenticity and fairness, and scepticism of institutions.

While Gen Zs may not ignore religious identity, they prefer expressions of it that are inclusive, personal, and respectful of other beliefs.)

There’s another way to view these funding announcements: rather than simply vote-chasing, they could reflect a recognition of the Indian community’s growing civic influence, and a willingness to support organisations that have a demonstrated record of community impact. Among IndianAustralian groups, the Hindu Council of Australia – and gurudwara committees in Victoria – stand out for their sustained, large-scale outreach. Their visibility and effectiveness may well explain why they have been recipients of significant government support, while other associations have not yet reached a similar level of engagement.

Issues of concern: Cost of living tops the list As expected, cost of living is highest on the mind of the Indian Australian voter, just as it is with the mainstream Australian voter.

Healthcare, housing and education follow at numbers two, three and four. These issues directly affect the hip pocket, and as largely first-generation migrants with limited financial means, better access to good healthcare for the older respondents and good education for the more recent migrants, are paramount. Securing their first home as new migrants is also on top of

their minds.

National security was less of a concern for Indian-Australians: coming from India which sees border skirmishes frequently as well as insurgency within, the safety in their new home seems to take at least that issue off their minds.

Environment concerns along with national security above stood at number 5, while social inclusion and sadly, women’s issues brought up the rear. Interesting the Indian Link Election survey of 2022 also had similar ranking for women’s issues and social inclusion. Perhaps one might be tempted to blame this low rank on a skewed gender ratio in the survey, a sobering thought when advocating for women’s rights should be a gender-neutral issue.

Conclusion The Indian Link survey indicates a strong preference within the Indian-Australian community for continuity, amidst a volatile global political landscape. In these uncertain times, voters appear to favour Albo’s safe hands on the steering wheel, as opposed to handing over the car keys to a new and untested driver.

A cautionary note however for the Indian-Australian community: it must urgently recognise the rising tide of identity politics - a trend that sees politicians on both sides prioritising short-term vote banks through religion - or culture-based overtures, over the long-term health of Australia's social cohesion. Ignoring this now – or failing to challenge it - could come at a serious cost to the inclusive values that bind us together.

Poll results reveal also that ultimately, Indian-Australian voters closely reflect the broader Australian electorate - attuned to pressing national concerns such as the cost of living, housing, healthcare, and leadership. Their choices at the ballot box are shaped by a shared civic identity rooted in the responsibilities of citizenship - not by cultural affiliation.

www.indianlink.com.au

Did You Know This?

Vote more than 70% with The Greens

Pushed For Changes That Increase GST and Tax on Super

Support Organisations Linked To Terror

Want To Change Rules on Negative Gearing

Backed By Billionaire Investors

Voted against stronger border protection

The Teals Are Not Who They Say They Are

Don’t Get Tricked

By The Teals betteraustralia.org

Authorised by S. Calland, Better Australia 2025 Inc., Level 9/66 Goulburn Street, Sydney NSW

APRIL 2025 13

14 APRIL 2025

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IndianLink

Three decades of all things Indian. In Australia.

Proudly honoured with 31 media awards, including four-time recognition as Best Publication.

APRIL 2025 15

AUSVOTES 2025

From migration to representation What the growing number of Indian-origin candidates in Australian elections tells us about changing demographics While many represent major parties like Labor, Liberal and the Greens – and a fair share are running as Independents – what’s interesting is the presence of Indian and South Asian heritage candidates from smaller, even fringe, parties: the Animal Justice Party, Family First, One Nation, the Libertarian Party, the Australian Christian Party, Trumpet of Patriots, Australia's Voice, and the Jacqui Lambie Network.

It’s a vivid reflection of the diverse ways in which Indian-Australians are engaging with politics.

This political emergence is visible across electorates, in all the demographic ratings of Inner Metropolitan, Outer Metropolitan, Provincial and even Rural – particularly in seats with growing multicultural

BY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA

A

ccording to the 2021 Census, over 780,000 Australians claim Indian ancestry – and increasingly, they’re not just casting votes, but standing for them.

Some fifty Indian-origin candidates nationwide have thrown their hat in for the Federal election this year, in a trend that has come to the fore in recent elections at both state and local levels. Twelve of these are contesting for the Senate (in the 40 Senate seats that are going to election this year).

SAMANTHA RATNAM, GRN (Wills VIC) Politics is about choices. We can choose to reform the housing market, make big corporations pay their fair share of tax and use it to fund world class health, education and public services. We can choose to take on the supermarkets and end their price gouging. We can do so much more to end the invasion and occupation of Gaza and end military exports to Israel. We can stop more coal and gas and tackle the climate crisis.

MIRA D’SILVA NILDHARA GADANI

LIB (Lalor VIC)

I’ve seen firsthand how important strong public services, affordable healthcare, quality education, and good jobs are to our community. The ALP stands for these values. [I want to help] strengthen Medicare, tackle housing affordability, and build a clean energy future.

It wasn’t politics that pushed me to run – it was purpose. When crime starts affecting your street, families can’t keep up with rising bills, and when hope feels distant, something needs to change. [I want a society] where communities are safe, housing is within reach, and hard work is genuinely rewarded.

ALP (Goldstein VIC)

PONRAJ K PANDI

KULJEET KAUR ROBINSON

I see the impact of inequality every day – in housing, healthcare, education, and the environment.

It’s time we had representatives who live our values – integrity, fairness, and a commitment to climate and social justice.

I stand for small business owners, farmers, retirees and hardworking families who increasingly feel their voices are not being heard. One Nation supports practical, common-sense policies, secure borders, the preservation of our national identity, and the restoration of integrity within government.

GRN (Gellibrand VIC)

ONP (Monash VIC)

ROHAN LAXMANALAL, AJP (Chifley NSW) LOKI SANGARYA GRN (Scullin VIC)

I’m disillusioned by the Liberals’ climate denial and Labor’s support for new fossil fuel projects despite scientific warnings.

16 APRIL 2025

I believe politics should be driven by compassion and evidence-based solutions. I’ve seen how people, animals, and the environment are often left behind in political decisions. I [want] to give voice to the voiceless and push for smart, fair, and futurefocused policies – especially around food, health, climate, and mental wellbeing.

ASHOK TEWATIA IND (Burt WA)

I didn’t come into this as a career move. I’ve felt what it’s like to be overlooked by policies that seem to serve political interests more than the public good.

www.indianlink.com.au

populations, but not exclusively so.

The candidates range the full gamut also as first-time candidates, repeat candidates, and returning representatives.

There’s large diversity in age, faith, professions and migration journeys.

The candidates each have strong local credentials – from small business to healthcare, law, and activism – and so have the potential to bridge between mainstream Australia and their multicultural constituencies.

immigration, education, or multicultural support are not exactly top of the list. From climate action to cost-of-living, from youth empowerment to national security, their campaigns are focused on the everyday concerns of all Australians.

Their identities may be shaped by a rich cultural heritage, but their visions are unequivocally national.

While many candidates are contesting in seats dominated by strong frontrunners, a few standout races are worth watching: • ALP’s Ash Ambihaipahar (Barton NSW) in a safe Labor seat held by Linda Burney since 2016 and now retiring.

• ALP’s Zaneta Mascarenhas (Swan

WA), and Senators Michelle Anandarajah (VIC) and Varun Ghosh (WA), to see if they will be returning.

At a time when parties are eager to reflect Australia’s diversity and appeal to growing migrant communities, the rise of candidates from migrant background reflects - and reinforces - the new integrative realities of modern Australia.

A GROWING POLITICAL VOICE

The rise of South Asian – particularly Indian-origin – candidates in Australian politics reflects a broader shift in the nation’s political and cultural landscape.

As one of the fastest-growing migrant communities in Australia, IndianAustralians have been slowly but surely asserting their presence not just socially and economically, but politically as well.

They are known to be savvy voters, for their high turnout as well as for their keen understanding of how policies affect their day-to-day lives – from skilled migration pathways to education and small business support. It is not surprising therefore, to see political parties reach out to them in significant ways, whether physically at community events or through tailored messaging in platforms such as Indian Link.

But the presence of so many candidates this election speaks to something more than just targeted outreach. It marks a generational and cultural shift – a sign of deepening political participation, driven by values rooted both in Australian civic life and in the political instinct many migrants bring from the subcontinent, where politics is often part of everyday life.

WHY NOW?

The motivations behind this rise are varied - driven by a mix of generational change, grassroots community involvement, and a deep-rooted political instinct carried over from the subcontinent.

The inspiration is both local and global.

The past five years have seen role models emerge in places previously unimagined.

Seeing Indian-origin leaders thrive on the world stage (think Rishi Sunak in the UK, Kamala Harris in the US), as well as here in our own backyard (Dave Sharma, Daniel Mookhey, Charishma Kaliyanda, Gurmesh Singh in NSW; Michelle AnandaRajah, Roshena Campbell, Alex Bhathal in VIC, and Varun Ghosh and Zaneta Mascarenhas in WA) – reinforces the idea that representation at the highest levels is not out of reach.

These leaders, having broken through significant barriers, offer a powerful message to aspiring candidates: representation is not just possible, but necessary.

NOT JUST FOR “THE COMMUNITY”

As minorities in a multicultural society, you might expect political participation to be motivated by wanting a seat at the table to protect in-group interests – to voice concerns and shape policy that reflect own realities. But if our interviews at Indian Link are anything to go by, their priorities are far broader.

Community-specific issues like

Can’t make it on Election Day Saturday 3 May?

All Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to vote.

If you can’t make it to a polling place on election day, you may be eligible to: • vote early at an early voting centre, or • apply for a postal vote.

To check early voting options and eligibility, visit aec.gov.au/early By now, the official guide should have arrived in your mail box. It has all the information you need to make your vote count.

Your official guide image holder

Scan the QR code below to download the guide.

Your vote will help shape Australia.

To learn more aec.gov.au/translated 1300 720 153

Authorised by the Electoral Commissioner, 10 Mort Street, Canberra.

APRIL 2025 17

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18 APRIL 2025

MARCH 2025 47 www.indianlink.com.au

APRIL 2025 19

STAGE

SPICE UP YO

Desi comics ar

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has been in full swing, and this year, So community in the lineup, it's clear that the face of comedy is evolving, and we’re here redefine the stand-up scene feels like

RAUL KOHLI

BY KHUSHEE GUPTA

Finding god at the pub

F

or UK-based comedian Raul Kohli, tackling taboo topics isn’t a risk — it’s a responsibility. Known for his thought-provoking routines that interrogate faith, identity, and hypocrisy with razor-sharp wit, Kohli brings his latest show “A British Hindu’s guide to the universe” to Aussie shores!

“I’ve never really thought about catering to a conservative audience,” Kohli says. “But I guess I do it by not being gratuitously offensive. Sure, I talk about taboo subjects, but not for shock value - more out of curiosity. I come at it as someone raised in the West, trying to make sense of beliefs I inherited without fully understanding them.”

Rather than mocking religion, Kohli frames his work as a journey toward understanding it - on his own terms.

“When I first started Comic Sanskrit, my podcast, I told my Swamiji I didn’t want to say anything blasphemous to which he replied there’s no such thing as blasphemy in Hinduism. That really blew my mind.

India often confuses culture with religion - what we’re offended by isn’t always what the scripture says.”

There’ve been real-life incidents of comedians being attacked or shows being shut down in India because the public found something offensive, India’s Got Latent being the most famous example. However, Kohli doesn’t let that deter him from doing what he loves.

W

e A b everyday. Eac ability to find Asian or not -

He recalls a joke by fellow Indian comic Anuvab Pal: “We say we’re conservative about sex, but we’re not - we just don’t talk about it. There are 1.5 billion of us!”

So does he think someone who enjoys a pint at the pub can still be deeply religious?

Kohli’s take is refreshingly nuanced. “What I love about Hindu philosophy is that it’s not rigid. It literally says: pick what works for you in this life.”

He shares a piece of wisdom from his Swamiji: “You might find God in a drink with your mates. Because that’s where joy and connection live. So yeah, you can absolutely be religious and still have a beer.”

GUNEET

A tale of guinea p

M

elbourne based Guneet Kaur is ruffling feathers - in the best way possible.

Kaur delivers a set packed with deadpan precision and draws uncanny parallels between us and the animals that live quietly on the fringes of our urban chaos - those scrappy survivors who, much like us, are just trying to make sense of it all.

Guneet is no stranger to being the only woman on a comedy lineup.

“Even now, I’ll do lineup shows and I’m sometimes the only woman. And you can forget about Indian women there’s like three of us.”

To push back against this imbalance, Guneet took matters into

20 APRIL 2025

her own hands. She all-women comedy the banner of Girls later evolved into T “Now we include o they can get to expe feels like,” she joke When it comes to identity into her ma candid about the in that comes with bei Australian perform neurotic, but maybe good job of being In she says. “But also, just want to make a Guneet’s comedy on real life - but wit

www.indianlink.com.au

OUR LAUGHS

re here to slay

outh Asian comedians are taking the spotlight like never before. With 31 acts from the e for it. In a space that’s long been dominated by white voices, seeing people of colour e a much-needed breath of fresh air.

e caught up with three standout performers you need to know: Advait - dry, introspective, and quietly hilarious; Guneet bringing razor-sharp observations with deadpan flair; and Raul - an energetic wildcard with stories that flip the script on the ch brings their own unique lens but what unites them is a shared d humour in the unexpected, and to invite audiences - South - into stories that feel universally hilarious.

ADVAIT KIRTIKAR An actuary, actually

N

ew Zealand comedian Advait Kirtikar’s show, “Love Actuary” is rooted in real-life romance and random run-ins. The premise?

He’s trying to track down a girl he briefly saw - wearing pink skates and Spongebob socks. Sounds like a plot out of a quirky indie rom-com!

“I just thought it was a really funny story and a cool experience I had, so I naturally turned it into a story. I talk about things that are interesting in my life on stage - and this is probably one of the most interesting things that’s ever happened to me.”

No one in Advait’s life ever expected him to become a comedian.

He's the quiet one in the corner introverted, observant, definitely not the life of the party. But give him a mic, and it’s like flipping a switch. “I can channel that silly side, and people actually hear me! Offstage, half the time I say something funny, no one hears it... and the moment’s gone.”

Turning personal stories into punchlines sounds like a delicate balance. But Advait believes it’s all about cleaning up the story.

“You’ve got to keep it real but cut out unnecessary details that just

cloud the storyline. Reality is often a bit clunky, so you need to smooth it out for the stage. The challenge is keeping the essence and truth, but making sure it flows and lands with the audience.”

So, at the end of the day, it’s really about taking chances, especially when it comes to love. “I take a few big risks in the show, and some pay off... some don’t. So the show’s also about learning to be thoughtful and deliberate, even when you’re throwing caution to the wind. You’ll have to come and see where it all ends up!”

T KAUR

pigs and pigeons

e started producing nights, first under s Comedy, which The Other Girls. one token man so erience what that es. o weaving aterial, Guneet is nternal tug-of-war ing an Indianmer. “It’s a bit e I’m not doing a ndian enough,” , sometimes you a fun show.” y frequently draws th care. She speaks

about her work as a disability support worker in the show, but is careful to change details and avoid identifying anyone. “You have to be very considerate, especially when telling stories that involve other people,” she says. “If I’m writing a joke about my boyfriend, I want to make sure he doesn’t hate it!”

Despite the deeply personal content, the ultimate goal for Guneet is connection. “This show is definitely a bit of a love letter to pigeons,” she says with a smile. “But more than anything, I hope people come away with an appreciation for how smart animals and other creatures really are.”

APRIL 2025 21

HEALTH

Navigating the first steps after an autism diagnosis

In Autism Awareness Month, a paediatrician's guide to addressing parents' initial questions and concerns

BY NIDHI PANICKER

I

n my career to date, I have only seen and cared for a handful of South Asian families where their child has been given a diagnosis of autism. Whilst every autistic child is different, what I have taken away from interacting with these wonderful families is that the diagnosis has always been a surprise and has always been devastating.

We have spent numerous consults discussing what the diagnosis means, how to best support their child and navigate not only the complex Australian health care system but also the bureaucratic machine that is the NDIS, and finally ‘what does this mean for my child? Can they live their best life?’.

The simple answer is that every child develops and makes progress on their own timeline, and the best that we can do is to support them with the right therapies along the way. One of the most challenging questions I get, is how to explain autism to family members, especially the extended family, and whether there are any alternative ‘treatments’ for this condition.

In this article, I will do my best to provide an overview. However, if you do have any concerns regarding your child’s development, the next best step is to see your GP for a chat around if any further referrals are necessary

WHAT IS AUTISM? Autism is the name given to a neurodevelopmental disability which affects communication, how information is processed and how people interact with the world. We use the term ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder’ to highlight that individuals can present in many ways. It’s often helpful to ask a person with autism as to how they would like to be referred to. This condition 22 APRIL 2025

affects 1-2% of Australians, and can often run in families. The genetic associations are still being studied. As it is a condition which often presents with developmental delay, early intervention with speech therapy, occupational therapy and psychology can be beneficial. As a paediatrician, I look for concerns in key areas of developmentspecifically issues with social communication skills and restricted/repetitive behaviours.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR? An important thing to note is that autism cannot be diagnosed in a baby. Having sensory issues e.g. disliking certain textures/ foods/sounds is also not diagnostic of a neurodevelopmental disorder on its own.

As your child gets older, you may notice a delay in language or an unusual manner of communication with adults and peers.

Some children may not use nonverbal communication like pointing, or eye contact, in the way that we would expect. They may also not respond to their name. Some children may require a strict routine to feel comfortable, and any deviation may cause distress. Many families also notice repetitive behaviours e.g. wanting to play with the same toy in the same manner, with limited capacity for imaginative play. Restricted/repetitive behaviours can also include repetitive body movements or the copying/mimicking of

sounds/words that have been heard- this phenomenon of copying words is known as ‘echolalia’.

Your child may present later in primary school. Often children in this age group start to experience difficulty in relating to their peers. Changing from one activity to another, or dealing with change can be particularly challenging for children with autism. They may also have a hard time with external sensory inputs – a loud noisy classroom with bright lights can potentially cause discomfort which might present as poor behaviour or falling behind in their class work. Adolescents with autism often verbalise feeling like they have had challenges with friendships, feelings of constant worry or anxiety, and often have a special interest.

WHAT CAN AUTISM LOOK LIKE/ COEXIST WITH? Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Intellectual disability (ID) and anxiety often coexist with a diagnosis of autism. Eating disorders and language delays are also common comorbidities.

Paediatricians will usually organise blood tests to check that there is no underlying medical/genetic reason for your child’s developmental delay - this includes checking iron, B12, thyroid function, and some basic genetic blood tests amongst other things.

Some parents feel guilty and want to know if there is anything they could have done to prevent this from occurring. I reassure them that this is not the case and they could not have done anything differently.

WHAT TO DO ONCE A DIAGNOSIS IS MADE? The gold standard (ideal way to make a diagnosis) test is done by a group of clinicians (usually a mix of psychologists, speech therapists and occupational therapists) who have observed your child over a period of time. This process usually also involves talking to your child’s daycare/preschool or classroom teacher. It is not usually a diagnosis made on the first visit, unless the severity of your child’s symptoms might be high enough to do so. Once a diagnosis is made, the supports you have are guided by what your child needs are - for example, your child may require support with their emotional regulation, speech and toileting skills. Your doctor can help support you with applying to the NDIS and discussions around schooling and whether your child may require additional school supports There are no medications available for autism. However specific medications may be needed if your child has one of the coexisting conditions listed above. It’s also important to note that some parents may feel guilty and want to know if there is anything they could have done to prevent this from occurring. I usually spend much time with families reassuring them that this is not the case and they could not have done anything differently. It may be useful to reach out to community groups and online resources. I also explain to families that every child will make progress with their development on their own timeline, but it’s not something that we can predict with any certainty. Having more open conversations in the South Asian community about what autism is, can also help reduce the stigma that may be associated around this condition - many parents express to me that they have received criticism around their parenting skills due to a lack of understanding in the wider community.

www.indianlink.com.au

Graphic by Torsha Sen

When love is loud A mother’s journey through autism and aggression BY RUCHI LAMBA

W

hen my son was born, I counted his fingers and toes, like every mother does. I held him close and whispered promises - of safety, of unconditional love, of always being there. I didn’t know then what those promises would come to mean.

I didn’t know how far I’d have to go to keep them.

My son is autistic. He is also non-verbal.

He is beautiful, and kind-hearted, and helpful. He’s the one who brings tissues to his grandmother without being asked.

He carries his little sister’s schoolbag to the car. He stands up for people who are hurting. He feels everything so deeply - and sometimes, that’s exactly the problem.

When he was little, the meltdowns came and went like summer storms - loud, overwhelming, but short. We learned to adapt. But as he grew, so did his strength, and his frustrations, and his confusion about the world. And the meltdowns grew with him - longer, louder, more dangerous.

Sometimes people ask, “What triggers him?” And the truth is - it could be anything. A noise that came too suddenly.

A plan that changed without warning. A favourite song that’s no longer on Spotify.

The dog next door barking. A scratchy tag on a shirt. A bad night’s sleep. No one ever asks what soothes him. They just want to know how to make it stop.

The hardest days are the ones that start off fine. We’re laughing. He’s dancing to his favourite Michael Jackson beat. I’m in

the kitchen making lunch. Then something changes. He screams. He slaps his own face. He turns on me, his eyes full of fear and rage. And I know - I’m the safest person to lash out at, because he knows I’ll never leave him.

And I won’t.

But I’m also afraid. Afraid of being hurt.

Afraid of what he might do to himself.

Afraid of what would happen if anyone else saw this side of our lives.

I don’t talk about the violence much.

Not with most people. Because if I do, they look at me like I’ve failed as a mother.

Or worse, they look at him like he’s a monster. And he’s not. He is a beautiful, complicated soul trapped in a world that doesn’t speak his language. And when the world feels too loud, too fast, too unfamiliar - he panics. He explodes. And I am left picking up the pieces, both of our hearts bruised and exhausted.

There’s no partner to help hold him down while I comfort the others. There’s no father figure swooping in to handle the physical side of the storm. It’s just me. So when he starts throwing things, when his voice rises in a howl that shreds the calm of our home, I go into crisis mode. I tell

my elderly parents to lock themselves in their room. I tell my daughter - his fierce, loyal little sister - to do the same. She knows the drill. She never complains.

I lead him, coax him, push him whatever it takes - into the backyard. Out there, he can scream. He can throw things.

He can be as loud and wild as he needs to be. My neighbours hear the noise. Some look over the fence. Some call out to check. Some just close their windows and pretend we’re not here. And I don’t blame them. It sounds scary. It is scary.

But out there, at least, no one else gets hurt.

Afterward, he cries. Not out of manipulation or regret you can explain in words. It’s a deep, shuddering cry - like his whole body is sorry. I hold him, sometimes with bruises on my arms, and whisper, “You’re safe. I’m still here.” And he clings to me like a shipwrecked sailor, wrecked by a storm he didn’t mean to summon.

It’s hard to admit that your child, the person you love more than anyone else on Earth, can hurt you. Not because they’re cruel. Not because they want to.

But because they don’t know another way.

The shame is heavy. Not just because of

There are good days. So many good days. But we live in the shadows of the bad days. The bad days are loud, and violent, and real… and there’s no hotline for a single mom whose adult autistic son just broke a chair in the backyard during a meltdown.

the judgment from others - but because sometimes, I judge myself. Was I patient enough? Did I miss a warning sign? Am I doing enough therapy, enough routines, enough dietary adjustments, enough love?

The support group helps. The other mothers - they understand. But even then, I find myself quiet during certain conversations. One mom says her husband restrains their son while she protects the other children. I nod, but I can’t relate.

Another says they installed a sensory room, padded and filled with calming tools. I wish I could. But I’m holding this family together with threadbare hope and long days, and we haven’t gotten to the padded room yet.

So we make do with the backyard and locked doors. With soft music when the storm has passed. With whispered prayers and small victories. Like when he comes back inside after a meltdown and helps his sister clean up the living room. Like when he signs “sorry” with his hands and gives me a tight squeeze.

There are good days. So many good days. Days where he laughs from his belly and dances like nobody’s watching. Days where he watches Taylor Swift videos with his sister and sings along in his own way.

Days where he helps his grandparents without being asked. Days where I think maybe, just maybe, we’re going to be okay.

But we live in the shadows of the bad days. Because the bad days are loud, and violent, and real. And there’s no hotline for a single mom whose adult autistic son just broke a chair in the backyard during a meltdown.

I write this not for pity, but for truth.

For all the mothers who walk this tightrope of love and fear. Who know the weight of keeping a child safe from the world - and the world safe from their child.

Who would never abandon their child, but sometimes wonder how long they can carry this alone.

You are not alone. I see you. I am you.

And to my son - if you ever read this one day - I want you to know: I love you with a fierceness that can’t be shaken. I will always protect you, even when it’s hard.

Even when you push me away. Even when the world doesn’t understand.

Because I do. And that’s enough.

Disclaimer: This article discusses autistic meltdown, which may include aggressive behaviours. These are not acts of intentional harm, but responses to sensory overload, communication challenges, or emotional distress. Understanding the cause is key to support and prevention.

For concerns, please consult a qualified autism specialist or therapist. It may be useful to reach out to community groups and online resources.

Scan the QR code to view a TEDx talk by Ruchi Lamba

APRIL 2025 23

24 APRIL 2025

www.indianlink.com.au

FOOD

The elevation of a humble seed to ‘super’ profitable

Superfood or just super marketing? Looking at the science behind makhanas, and the truth about their production BY CHARMAINE O‘BRIEN

W

Photo : YouTube

hat comes to mind when you think of makhana? Navratri?

Vrats? Makhana ki kheer?

Makhana namkeen? But did you know makhana has recently been reinvented as a so-called ‘superfood, leading to a doubling of its price, and the Union Government allocating funds to establish a Makhana Board in Bihar to manage the “makhananomics” arising from its ascendency to contemporary food stardom?

I remember the first time I tried makhana, simply roasted and sprinkled with salt, at a friend’s home in Delhi in 2000. I was surprised by how delicious it was, and that it was a food I’d never heard of, inspiring me to investigate it. Makhana, also known as fox and gorgon nuts, are the dried and popped seeds of the water lily Euryale ferox Salisb, said to have a 2000-year history on the sub-continent. Classified as a sattvic food and popularly prepared as a sweet prasad

for Lord Krishna’s birthday, Ayurveda has long held it as curative of infertility, insomnia and digestive issues. Despite these auspicious associations makhana was considered a ‘humble’ food, sold scooped out of large polythene bags, or in non-descript pre-packs, in provisions stores around the country.

Around 2015, I noticed makhana dressed up in fancy flavour combinations and alluring packaging being sold in upmarket food stores in Delhi’s Khan Market. The lure to get consumers to pay more for less of these souped-up makhanas was its promotion as a “healthy snacking option” that could – holy of holies - help you lose weight while indulging. This was the first stage of the makhana make-over. Its transformation into a ‘superfood’ soon followed.

The proposition of a ‘superfood’ is that it contains more nutrients than other foods thereby conferring enhanced health benefits through its consumption; it is not a scientific

term. It was invented by an American fruit company to sell more bananas. Most foods labelled as ‘super’, including makhana, are minimally processed plant foods, inarguably

nutritious foods, but no one necessarily better than another. The composition of makhana, largely starch (80%) with good amounts of amino acids, calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium, is a scientific fact. Claims that eating it can prevent the predominant diseases of modern India, heart disease, cancer and diabetes, “slow down the ageing process” and “inhibit wrinkles, fine lines and premature greying of hair” lack any proof. Reputable scientific studies on makhana certainly propose its constituent elements ‘might’ ‘potentially’ work in the body in disease prevention, but all conclude that “further research” is needed. It is marketers, and media, who distort the tentative results of rigorous research into conclusive declarations about the powers of makhana. Still, consumers don’t seem to be bothered about this.

Another superfood marketing strategy, exampled here by terms used for makhana, is to describe it as an “ancient” food produced by “age-old” and “sustainable” methods. A more factual narrative than the health claims, albeit one veiling reality.

Euryale seeds are collected from the bottom of ponds across Eastern India, predominantly in Bihar, a slow laborious process that stirs up mud and debris, causing workers eye and respiratory problems; the plant’s ferocious spiky thorns can tear their skin; leech bites are another hazard, and sometimes divers drown. The harvested seeds are transformed into edible makhana via a painstaking multi-stage process of drying, roasting and hammering to force the seeds' starchy insides to pop out of the hard shell. All this work is done by hand.

Returning to the proposed Makhana Board. Makhana as a superfood has caused demand to outstrip supply. One role of the board will be to support increased production. The irony of this is that the lauded ‘traditional’ methods of producing makhana cannot meet this challenge. Modern mechanised methods of production will be required, and new higher yielding varieties of Euryale are being created in laboratories; the words ‘industrialisation’ and ‘genetic modification’ are not of the superfood oeuvre. The poor rural communities who produce India’s makhana supply are not benefitting as much as they should, if at all, from its increased prices. Almost all makhana is traded into India, and globally, from Rajasthan and the Punjab, where none of it is produced. It is middle-men and commercial food companies who are reaping the greater profits. The Makhana Board is charged with redressing this imbalance.

You might think, so what? If consumers are willingly paying more for makhana believing it can mitigate disease and offer the fountain of youth, that’s their choice.

But global experiences have shown labelling something a superfood can significantly disrupt less developed communities who rely on it. And there is a salutatory historical example: spices were the ‘superfoods’ of the middle ages, credited with all sorts of magical powers, leading to huge demand, which led to inflated prices, causing Europeans to sail East in search of the source of spices. I don’t need to tell you how that ended up.

APRIL 2025 25

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APRIL 2025 27

STAGE

Seven No es of the noted

Melbourne-based Indian-Australian violinist BHAIRAVI RAMAN tells SUMATHI KRISHNAN about blending Western Classical and Carnatic traditions to express her bicultural identity, through a creative fusion of her “two sound worlds”.

As a first generation Australian born to Indian migrant parents, tell us how you developed your expertise and love for the violin.

My first memories are seeing and hearing my mother play her violin. My parents’ conviction and recognition of my efforts, through those early years of scratchy, off-tune playing, saw me receive a strong foundation in both Western and Carnatic techniques. To this day, they are usually the first two people I look for in the audience when the curtain opens.

Frances Gall, my western violin teacher, helped me understand the violin as an instrument and built western technique.

Sri Gopinath Iyer, my Carnatic vocal music guru, taught me a structured approach to learning kritis and deconstructing ragas. Sri Murali Kumar, my Carnatic violin guru, taught me how to embrace creativity, freedom of expression and unlock manodharmam (improvisation). Sri S Varadarajan, my current guru, pushes me to seek nuances and complexity in every single sound I produce through the violin.

This is just a small window into a journey of 25+ years of learning and discovery.

Violin virtuoso L. Subramaniam once told me that learning by the Suzuki method makes switching to Carnatic easier. Did it help your technique?

The Suzuki method mainly taught me to “play by ear” - being able to interpret a musical phrase so that I can reproduce the music in my playing, in real time, instantly.

This is one of the most challenging roles of an accompanying violinist in a Carnatic concert.

It has helped me develop as a responsive accompanist, and also be creative.

Tell us your experiences of performing in Chennai and in Australia.

I’ve performed at the Spirit of Youth Music Festival in 2016 with Kartik

28 APRIL 2025

Suresh and the HCL Concert Series in 2018 (with SK Mahathi) in Chennai. Performing in the Chennai landscape has been immensely stimulating.

In Australia, some memorable concerts have been performing at the Melbourne Recital Centre twice, ACMI Melbourne; being part of the sound scape for a play called Nayika at Belvoir Theatre, Sydney; collaborative work with dancers, such as Queensland Kathakali dancer Bindu Rajendran, and participating in many festivals. I have completed arts leadership and mentorship programs with Footscray Community Arts Centre and the Australian Art Orchestra.

All these opportunities have given me access to a community and expertise that I continue to draw on to inform my creative practice.

Today you’re a director in a management consulting firm, Masters student, and a violinist. How do you balance it all?

By setting realistic goals of what I can feasibly fit into my schedule, and resisting the urge to say yes to everything; physically blocking time in my calendar including time to reflect on, practice, or compose music; preparing and planning ahead for ‘crunch times’, especially when I know I will be travelling.

Time management is essential; and realising that one can’t have it all. With competing opportunities, half the work is the internal self-talk, to tell myself that I must prioritise dialling down at times. The challenge remains not to over commit and under deliver.

How can Australia better support aspiring artists like you?

The experience of Carnatic music in each country is informed by a very different cultural context. We have a vibrant and multi-generational local artist

community, and a growing recognition of Carnatic music in mainstream educational and performance spaces (e.g. school music programs, tertiary electives, arts leadership conferences, music venues).

We have normalised offering our music for free, which means we unintentionally devalue our art. Perhaps we could more intentionally support Carnatic musicians to professionalise their talent.

Any exciting collaborations coming up?

I’m working on an album with my husband Nanthesh. I’ve released a couple of recorded singles on

Band Camp and Spotify. For a very long time I treated Western and Carnatic playing styles like playing separate instruments. I am working now on reconciling identities, get some integration and merging of those two forms of music and find my own voice.

Perhaps this is my ‘Ode to the Violin’, to play with textures and so on in an effort to bridge my two ‘sound worlds’ of Western Classical and Carnatic music.

Incidentally, is Bhairavi your favourite ragam?

My favourite ragam is actually Kambodhi, but Bhairavi was my parents’ favourite ragam.

Bhairavi Raman holds an AMusA (Associate in Music, Australia) diploma in violin, awarded by the Australian Music Examinations Board AMEB. Over a 15-year career, she has performed extensively across Australia and internationally, including notable appearances at South India's esteemed venues such as the Madras Music Academy. Bhairavi has also co-founded Gamaka, a non-profit initiative focused on nurturing Carnatic music appreciation among young South Asian Australians.

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Image: Harmohan Walia

Image: Salt of the Earth Productions

DOCUMENTARY

Filmmaker Anita Barar with Baljinder Singh

Finding Grandpa From Punjab to Camden: Uncovering a hidden legacy of love, loss, and belonging

BY SRUTHI SAJEEV

B

Image: Harmohan Walia

aljinder Singh’s story starts with a promise to his grandmother. At the age of 12, he swears to find his grandfather, Mehnga Singh, a man who left his home country for Australia in the 1920s. It’s a commitment that he never wavers from during his 23-year search.

This is the premise of Anita Barar’s latest documentary Finding Grandpa. The documentary is not just a retelling, but a revival of the past through a pastiche of voiceover and re-enactments, all framed by interviews with Baljinder Singh.

Incidentally, it was whilst filming another documentary, Crossing the Line, which focussed on Partition and the despair

of Indian - Australians who had been separated from their loved ones, that Barar crossed paths with Baljinder Singh and became fascinated with the generational weight he carried.

“Here was a man who risked everything to fulfil his promise made to his Grandma,” Barar says at a screening of the documentary. “When I met Baljinder Singh, I knew right there that the story had to be told and I must make this film.”

Rather than simply focusing on Singh’s seemingly impossible journey to find his grandfather, Finding Grandpa also tells the story of the people left behind by Mehnga Singh. Much of the emotional core is derived through flashback, where viewers see the anger directed to Baljinder’s grandmother, Radhiye, by her children for refusing to follow her husband, as well as her own pain and regret. She is not presented merely as the woman who didn’t follow her husband but as a person who waited in vain for her loved one to come back.

Anita Barar stands with her daughter as she shares her experiences making the documentary

“It was important that the audience not only listen to Baljinder’s story but also empathise with it; so, I used several reenactments to bring to life memorable past events,” Barar reveals.

Param Nayyar, who plays the young Baljinder, is highly convincing and is able to portray the sorrow of a child when confronted with shared familial pain. Urmil Nayyar, who plays the grandmother, puts on an equally moving performance.

But the main narrative is delivered through an emotional Baljinder Singh.

Barar’s questions effectively guide his retelling and portray the difficulty of his task.

“It’s like deciding to jump into the sea to catch the right fish,” he says.

Holding only the letters his grandfather had sent to his grandmother prior to Partition, he recalls going to Sikh temples his grandfather likely visited in Australia, institutions like the Office of Births, Deaths and Marriages, and even the police in Camden, the suburb his grandfather sent his letters from.

Historians Crystal Jordan and Len Kenna

Throughout this journey, he was completely unaware that his grandfather had, like many other Indian immigrants at the time, changed his name, going under ‘Charles Singh,’ instead. As a result, a search that was expected to last a few months, took years to end. It was only after going to the National Archives of Australia, that he received a vital clue about his grandfather’s life.

Interestingly, Baljinder also acts as himself in the documentary during various re-enactments, a creative decision that pays off. Perhaps as a result of reliving his past, Singh is able to achieve an emotional depth that few amateur actors would be able to reach.

Underpinning these moments is Pupinder Mintu’s haunting voice, combined with a score composed by Avijit Sarkar. When played over a sweeping view of the Australian suburbs, one wonders about the sense of isolation felt by Mehnga Singh.

A welcomed respite to these moments is the input from historians Len Kenna and Crystal Jordan who were instrumental to the search.

They remind the audience that Mehnga Singh’s story is not an anomaly. Singh is just one out of a sprawling cohort of Indians, many of whom were cameleers and hawkers and were integral to Australia’s progress.

“Many of the hawkers would go years without having slept in a bed,” Len Kenna says in a speech prior to the screening.

“Whilst many Indian-Australians would go back after getting a quid, Mehnga was one of the few who stuck around.”

As fate would have it, in the process of looking for Mehnga Singh, Baljinder finds another Indian immigrant who seemed to thrive in his new home, making donations of 1000 pounds to Camden Hospital. In order to preserve his legacy, Baljinder Singh reinstalls a plaque put up in honour of his contributions, referring to him as “my second grandfather.”

Watching Baljinder Singh’s story, it becomes clear that his journey wasn’t fuelled merely by the bravado of his 12-yearold self, but it was the product of a genuine and undying love for his grandfather, grandmother, uncles and father. Whilst he may not have been able to meet his grandfather, it’s clear to see that the tenacity that allowed Mehnga Singh make a home in Australia lives on in Baljinder Singh.

Armed only with his grandfather’s pre-Partition letters, Baljinder searched Sikh temples, government offices, and police in Camden — the suburb from which the letters were sent.

APRIL 2025 29

Casual speeding is the biggest cause of trauma on NSW roads

Stop and Consider …what you see, hear and read about the voting process

A

ustralia’s electoral system is one of the most trusted in the world, and every voter plays a role in protecting it.

You might come across false or misleading information about the electoral process. It’s important to stop and think about the content and source of what you see, hear, or read.

Check the content – look for: emotional language that causes strong feelings, like shock, anger or excitement n linking two or more arguments together that don’t make sense n showing a small number of choices instead of all of them n blaming a particular group or person who is not the only person/ group responsible n attacking the person rather than focusing on the argument

Check the source: Where did the information come from? Is it from a trustworthy place? n How was it made? AI technology makes it easier to create false text, images, video and audio. n When was it published? Old information can sometimes look new. n Why was it published? Is there a reason that someone could be trying to convince you of something that isn’t true. n

Photo: Pexels

n

n

hiding false claims/statements by just asking more questions

n

bold claims or picking facts or parts of a story without showing all the info.

Check the AEC website so you know true from false information about: n how to complete the ballot paper n when to vote n how preferences work n how votes are counted n how the result is decided n security, scrutiny and other safeguards.

We all share the responsibility to protect the integrity of our electoral system. Support your friends, family, and community by encouraging them to approach information with care.

For more tips, visit aec.gov.au/translated Produced in partnership with the Australian Electoral Commission, 10 Mort Street, Canberra.

30 APRIL 2025

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INDIAN LINK LOVES

Loving right now What we’re obsessed with this month

READ

WATCH

We have a book you can add to your arsenal of tricks to help your kids come down after that Easter sugar high. Susanne Gervay’s Parrot Palace has all the ingredients of a novel that can’t be put down. It follows an Indian-Australian, a Hungarian-Chinese and a “dinky-di” Aussie who come together to face a common enemy. And whilst it’s a wild ride of a novel (hint: romantic confessions are made, important items broken), the novel pushes for a deeply accepting and multicultural Australia. And with more kids reading it, maybe this vision will become a reality.

We challenge you to find someone who has watched We Are Lady Parts and hasn’t become a diehard fan. This series is an unapologetically realistic portrayal of the South Asian girls of the diaspora. It follows a young woman who finds herself inadvertently becoming the lead guitarist of an all-female punk rock band turned sisterhood. Playing the main lead is Anjana Vasan who was recently nominated for the BAFTA TV awards for best female performance in a comedy. With nods for its writing and direction as well, what better time than now to start the show?

LISTEN

EAT

Nitin Sawhney clearly doesn’t like to keep his fans waiting. He’s released two albums in the past two years, both of which have received critical acclaim. His latest, the soundtrack for the doco Disneynature:Tiger, has received a BAFTA TV nomination.

Sawhney does what he knows best in this soundtrack; telling a story. Pieces like Meet Ambar are a breath of fresh air, featuring a dynamic mix of Indian and Western classical sounds to convey the grandiosity of nature. Even those who switch off during documentaries will find themselves hooked to the TV by Sawhney’s prowess.

This month we want you to go global. Why? Because Sydney finally has been graced with an ‘eat-in fresh-produce’ market in the form of Hay St Market. It’s the ultimate hub for foodies and tourists alike. This $20 million precinct has 48 different traders and includes 25 different cuisines. And it serves…both in terms of taste and aesthetics. As you walk through, you’ll be stunned by the colours of the food stalls, by the design of antique markets, and more (and yes, if you're simply after Indian food - that's on offer too).

WRITTEN BY SRUTHI SAJEEV APRIL 2025 31

WANDERLUST

St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata

Silent stunners Lesser-known cathedrals that command attention

BY SANDIP HOR

R

St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hanoi

32 APRIL 2025

eligious sites have always held a profound allure for me.

Throughout my travels to over hundred countries, I have had the privilege of visiting several Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, Jain shrines, Islamic mosques, Jewish synagogues, and countless cathedrals and churches within the Christian tradition.

According to Christian doctrine, a cathedral is defined as the church that serves as the Bishop's seat.

The cathedrals I have seen across the world have enthralled me by virtue of their pious significance, proud heritage and splendid architecture and artwork.

In Europe, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, St Paul’s Cathedral in London, Sagrada Família Cathedral in Barcelona, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow and St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Budapest are a few to be named from a long list.

Outside Europe there are some beautiful cathedrals, built mainly by European colonisers - Spanish, French, Portuguese and the British - as part of their mission to expand Christianity alongside territorial extensions. Compared to their European counterparts, they are lesser known in the wider tourism circuit and remain overlooked by many travelers, yet deserve recognition for their historical significance, architectural grandeur, and artistic merit.

I list some here which have impressed me dearly.

METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL (MEXICO CITY, MEXICO) Built in 1656 by the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortéson at the site of the Templo Mayor of the historic Aztec City of Tenochtitlan, this cathedral stands on a land of a mystical origin at the crossroads of the four cardinal points. Consisting of two bell towers, a central dome, and three main portals, it’s said to be America’s first Cathedral.

OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHEDRAL (GRANADA, NICARAGUA)

This striking yellow and white neoclassical structure stands out with its grand dome and impressive bell towers. Originally constructed by the Spanish in 1583, the cathedral has undergone several reconstructions due to damage from earthquakes and fires. The current edifice, completed in the early 20th century, is a testament to the city's colonial heritage and architectural resilience.

HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL (ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA)

Considered the city’s number one attraction, the outside features of this early 20th century shrine features a large copper dome, lanky pinnacles, and several figurines, while the interior showcases richly decorated glass windows, ornate ceilings and artworks on walls. It is also the final resting place for Emperor Haile Selassie and his wife Menen Asfaw.

CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL (STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR)

Built by British missionaries in 1879 on the location of the last permanent slave market in East Africa, this is a site of international historic and cultural significance. It is one of the most prominent examples of early Christian architecture in East Africa. Earlier known as the ‘Slave Market Church’, the high altar was positioned over the whipping post, and has now become a symbol of emancipation from tyranny worldwide.

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Christ Church, Zanzibar

Granada, Nicaragua

Apia Cathedral, Samoa

Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City

Metropolitan Cathedral, Manila

Holy Trinity Cathedral, Addis Ababa

The cathedral is notable for its Saracenic design, which created a typically Zanzibari eclecticism through its fusion of local, Middle Eastern, and late Victorian Gothic architectural styles.

METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL (MANILA, PHILIPPINES) Originally constructed in 1571 as a parish church under the Archdiocese of Mexico, this became a separate diocese eight years later. The main façade is adorned with statues of famous saints sculpted in Roman travertine stone. There are 134 stainedglass windows throughout the entire NeoRomanesque structure. The central door is also remarkable, with important episodes in the history of Manila Cathedral artistically reflected on it

ST JOSEPH’S CATHEDRAL (HANOI, VIETNAM)

The 1886 inaugurated neo-Gothic St Joseph Cathedral, also a key leftover from the French era, is currently the hub of Hanoi’s Catholic community. Surrounded by cafes and patisseries serving frothy latte, freshly baked croissants or a baguette, the church's most noteworthy features are the impressive twin bell towers, sumptuous altar and fine stainedglass windows and the towering façade.

SE CATHEDRAL (GOA, INDIA) Erected in memory of the Portuguese conquest of Goa in 1510 under Afonso de Albuquerque, the imposing Gothic style holy monument Se Cathedral honours Saint Catherine, as the victory fell on her feast day. It boasted two towers on either side of its Tuscany-style façade, but one collapsed after a century and was never replaced. Within the Se Cathedral's tower hangs the "Golden Bell," so named for its deep, melodious sound – it immortalises a Portuguese poem

Se Cathedral, Goa

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL (KOLKATA, INDIA)

A landmark of the ‘City of Joy’, this 19th century cathedral was the first Anglican cathedral in Asia. It is widely known for its Indo-Gothic style of architecture, meant to accommodate the Gothic-revival designs to suit the Indian climate. Detailed and intricate artwork adorn the entire structure of the cathedral with colourful, tainted windows and frescoes in Florentine Renaissance style.

Inside the cathedral, magnificent carvings and paintings depicting events from the life of St. Paul impress visitors.

ST PETER’S CATHEDRAL (ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA)

St Peter's Cathedral is a 19th century Anglican cathedral in the South Australian capital of Adelaide, often referred to as “City of Churches”. Sitting pretty on one acre of land, it’s the seat of the Archbishop of Adelaide. A significant city landmark, the architecture has similar features to the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris including an ornate rose window above the main entrance which depicts stories of South Australia and the Bible.

CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION (APIA, SAMOA)

Looming over the harbour, this lofty cathedral is breathtaking. It dates back to1857, and is the main shrine of the Catholic Archdiocese of Apia, the capital of Samoa. While the overall structure and the interior display Roman-style columns, stained glass windows, and marble floors as per traditional European design, there are many features reflecting Samoan traditions.

The entire ceiling is carved with patterns of the Samoan tattoo, and a wonderful Samoan version of The Last Supper is painted on the interior sides of the main dome.

St. Peter’s Cathedral, Adelaide

APRIL 2025 33

ENTERTAINMENT

cineTALK

Worth waiting for?

You decide!

What’s on KHUSHEE GUPTA’s screen this month: action-packed thrillers, heartfelt dramas and quirky comedies

TEST (Netflix)

JAAT (In cinemas)

A Tamil language film starring Nayanthara, R Madhavan and Siddharth, this is a story of the personal tests three people face as they deal with what life throws their way. A tale of common people and common struggles.

Releasing April 4

Sunny Deol hits the silver screen once more in this action film. A treat for fans of Gadar-style action, the film also features Randeep Hooda, Saiyami Kher and Ramya Krishnan.

Releasing April 10

BHOOL CHUK MAAF (In cinemas) Maddock Films’ latest offering is here, but this time it’s not about a Stree or a Chhaava. Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi star in this quirky comedy about a man whose haldi ceremony day keeps repeating itself, forcing him to relive the same chaotic events over and over.

Releasing April 10

MATRIMONIALS SEEKING GROOM 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, and be a nonsmoker and preferably teetotaller. Email biodata with photos, parents’ contact details to: matrimonial.ml@gmail.com

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34 APRIL 2025

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PHULE (In cinemas) Pratik Gandhi and Patralekha play a couple who fight for the education of girls in a time when child marriages were the norm and women’s rights were little to none. Based on the life of social reformer and activist Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, the film explores social justice themes.

Releasing April 11

KESARI CHAPTER 2: THE UNTOLD STORY OF JALLIANWALA BAGH (In cinemas) Akshay Kumar is back with Kesari, but this time, instead of a saffron pagdi, he dons the black coat and plays C Sankaran Nair. The film also stars R Madhavan and Ananya Panday as it delves into the fight for justice.

Releasing April 18

THE BHOOTNII (In cinemas) A unique horror-comedy movie, the focus of this one is a haunted tree on a university campus - and the chaos that ensues when its resident bhootni awakens. Sanjay Dutt turns ghostbuster. Also starring, are Sunny Singh, Mouni Roy and Palak Tiwari in lead roles.

Releasing April 18

JEWEL THIEF (Netflix)

GOOD BAD UGLY (In cinemas)

AKAAL (In cinemas)

Saif Ali Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, Nikita Dutta and Kunal Kapoor star in this heist where a master thief’s mission spirals into a dangerous game of double-crosses and shifting loyalties.

Releasing April 25

This Tamil film starring Sreeleela, Trisha Krishnan and Ajith Kumar promises massy action and classic South Indian dialogues we have come to know and love.

Releasing April 10

Directed by Gippy Grewal, this Punjabi film sees Sardar Akaal Singh defending his village from Jangi Jahan. It stars Nimrat Khaira, Apinderdeep Singh, Nikitin Dheer.

Releasing April 10

THE SECRET OF DEVKAALI (In cinemas)

THE RAJA SAAB (In cinemas)

A mythological thriller film starring Sanjay Mishra, Mahesh Manjrekar and Niraj Chauhan, which follows the protagonist as he uncovers a longhidden secret in the village of Devkaali.

Releasing April 18

It’s Prabhas in a triple role, alongside Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan, Riddhi Kumar, and Sanjay Dutt in this Telugu-language film, a romantic-horror-comedy.

Releasing April 10

GHAATI (In cinemas) Anushka Shetty stars in this Telugu film as a woman who gets entangled with the weed trade due to circumstances.

Releasing April 18

GROUND ZERO (In cinemas) Emraan Hashmi dons a soldier’s uniform for the first time in this patriotic action movie as he risks everything to fight for his country. Set in 2001 Kashmir, the movie also stars Sai Tamhankar and Zoya Hussain.

Releasing April 25

APRIL 2025 35

FORETELL

APRIL 2025

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

A major arcana and one of the best in the pack – new beginnings, manifestations coming true and a passionate love affair on the anvil.

Not a bad month where you will be motivated at work, can expect a job offer and things fall into place easily. If looking to sell property, it will be sold.

Finding the root cause of your stress will be difficult. The self-employed will do well moneywise. All new ventures, especially those where it’s just you, will be successful.

A happy month as you march to the beat of your own drums. A unique experience will reveal new possibilities to singles looking to mingle. Seniors are supportive at work, or, a new job offer could come your way. The self-employed will also get a new opportunity. Some of you may get nostalgic about the past. This card also signifies the need for inner child healing. You need to deal with your demons to have less friction in your relationships.

Geminis need to introspect, detach and stay away from substance abuse this month. A trip could be on the anvil and despite things going wrong, someone will offer help. This could be related to your love life or your work. The self-employed will see an increase in finances. Those looking will be successful in finding a job. Let go of assignments if your health doesn’t support the strain. Resources to acquire more money will be available.

Put your needs first.

A good month financially for Cancerians as money owed to you will come, or, a new project adds to your income.

Singles will open up to dating as they release past memories. The selfemployed may consider a new business idea. Those in a relationship may consider moving in together. Some of you may binge to quell emotional lacunae. Your ideas will be wellreceived at work. It is a time to harvest past efforts. Accept new opportunities coming your way for best results.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

JULY 21 - AUG 22

AUG 23 - SEP 22

SEP 23 - OCT 22

OCT 23 - NOV 21

Circumstances might bog you down; detach and focus on what truly matters. If you’ve had a recent break-up, avoid dating as you are possibly still pining for your ex.

Avoid fights and confrontations at home or at work. If involved in a clandestine affair with a married person, it will lead nowhere and depress you further. Being over-burdened at work and overthinking can cause insomnia. Financial setbacks are temporary. Don’t start anything new at this time or make any impulsive decisions.

A certain situation will push you against the wall: you may need to stand your ground or face it with courage.

Unexpected problems related to family, work or money could crop up. A busy month with social commitments, workrelated travel. If you are deciding with your heart in a relationship, you may need to make a sacrifice of some sort. Do not multi-task to the point of exhaustion.

Money disputes will be settled. If you have a goal, stay committed to it.

A difficult month for Librans as stress could bog you down. Be prepared for inner conflicts regarding important decisions to be made. Get in touch with your feelings and do some healing work. Conflicts at work could frustrate you. Disappointment comes from promises made and failed deliveries. Finances are steady but you still have some insecurity regarding them.

Avoid negative thinking and celebrate your victories, even the small ones. Depend only on yourself and trust no one for now.

You focus on your emotions and friendships as you reflect on them.

Singles, be clear about what you want as you enhance a relationship. Seniors at work will be extra supportive; a project offered could lead to a substantial boost in income. An ongoing financial issue will be resolved. Your best success comes from the resolution of inner dilemmas and arguments with others. Trust the process in matters that disturb you. Let the universe know what you want and let it go.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 18

PISCES

FEB 19 - MARCH 20

The card drawn could indicate a change in lifestyle, a loss of a certain way of being and a break-up in a relationship. Expect changes and hurdles on the work front. If recovering from heartbreak, spend time with friends. You need to release and let go of something you are holding on – a way of being, a mindset or a notion. Let it go.

Whatever changes are happening right now will lead to a new way of life for the better.

You draw the card for Aquarius, making the January-born even more practical this month. Or, an Aquarian female could help you significantly. You might even get involved in humanitarian causes. Singles will meet someone quite different from the usual and the interest is mutual. Those considering marriage will not settle for less than what they want. Work on your spiritual growth. Focus on your goals and you will achieve them. Problems will dissipate eventually. Expect financial gains.

You will look for fame and success at work. An unexpected call from a secret crush or a new romance could sweep you off your feet. Friends and family could be undergoing stress that could add to your problems. A marriage could be on the verge of a break-up. You won’t let upsetting conditions frazzle your inner calm. Money owed to you could be delayed. The self-employed will get a chance to boost their income. Believe in yourself and your work.

Pisceans will be in a generous mood this month – sharing their knowledge and ideas. Singles could meet someone they may want to get into a relationship with. A boost in business and a call from someone you like will be a pleasant surprise. Even the job front gets better in April. You will work towards a fitness regimen. Some of you may extend support to a relative going through a crisis. A rocky relationship is nearing the end.

NOV 22 - DEC 21

36 APRIL 2025

DEC 22 - JAN 19

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BACKCHAT

Four-year-old driving me up the jungle gym DEAR AUNTYJI We live in an apartment complex in Sydney with our only child, a daughter aged five named Ashely. Next door to us is a wonderful family with a four-year-old, Sookie.

Auntyji, little Sookie is loud, boisterous, noisy, rambunctious and as the young ones, say, extra. Meanwhile, my little Ashley - who can be loud and boisterous herself on many occasions - sometimes gets tired of Sookie.

But Sookie loves big sister Ashley, and wants to hang out every weekend morning.

Auntyji, what do I do in the situation when Sookie comes over and she is just too much with her yelling, shouting and jumping up and down?

She is one fall away from a concussion. How do I address this situation? I don’t want to be the witchy neighbour because in reality Ashley doesn’t mind playing with Sookie - except when she has her moments of extreme sookie-ness. What to do, Auntyji?

AUNTYJI SAYS Arre bahenji, why are you letting a little ankle biter terrorise your family like this? Kyon tolerate karti ho yeh baar-baar ka tamasha? You have all the power in the world in this situation, and you need to take control because the last thing you want is a chot (injury) taking place when little Sookie turns into a little dukhie.

So, next time, when you send your Ashley over for a play date,

tell Sookie’s parents that if Ashley yells, carries on or misbehaves, she has to come straight back. And let them know that you will do random checks to ensure she is behaving.

Just say that these are the new rules of engagement.

Then, next time, when Sookie comes over, I want you to loudly lay the ground rules to the kids.

No yelling, shouting, jumping up and down or running through the house. Make Ashley the

administrator of the rules. Tell Ashley that if Sookie carries on, she will have to go home. And Ashley being smart, because she is five, will curb Sookie’s enthusiasm for chaos. Problem solved. Just because Sookie is shaitaano ki sardarni does not mean that she carries on with her kumbukht harkat at your house.

The truth is, kids appreciate rules and boundaries. Your house, your rules. Simple. And make Ashley your rule-keeper.

Peer pressure is a hugely effective tool. Watch it play out in real time and you can sit back and enjoy your matthi and chai, knowing that the only way to control a boisterous four-year-old is to make a boisterous five-year-old their boss.

ASK AUNTYJI Do you have a question for Auntyji?

Email it to info@indianlink.com.au

Vote 1 Liberal for urgent cost of living relief Every litre 25c cheaper by voting Liberal

Rattan Virk and the Liberals will: Halve the fuel excise for 12 months to save families around $1,500.

RATTAN VIRK LIBERAL FOR GREENWAY

Take pressure off household budgets immediately.

LET’S GET AUSTRALIA BACK ON TRACK

RattanVirk4Greenway Authorised by Chris Stone, Liberal, Level 2, 131 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

Scan for more information

APRIL 2025 37

38 APRIL 2025

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Do you know how to make your vote count?

Green ballot paper – number every box in the order of your choice LY ON

Number the boxes from 1 to 8 in the order of your choice

On election day you need to complete two ballot papers:

•

AL USE

State Electoral Division of Division Name

It’s important that you understand how to vote correctly.

•

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House of Representatives Ballot Paper

OFF

Federal election, Saturday 3 May 2025

a green one for the House of Representatives a large white one for the Senate.

On the green ballot paper you are voting for a representative of your local area or electorate in the House of Representatives.

On the white ballot paper you are voting for representatives of your state or territory in the Senate.

2

SURNAME, Given Names

3

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7

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8

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1

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5

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INDEPENDENT

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PARTY

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6 SURNAME, Given Names PARTY

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Don’t worry if you make a mistake.

Just ask for another ballot paper and start again.

M

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Remember... number every box to make your vote count

Sample ballot paper

White ballot paper – you can choose to vote either above or below the line

Above the line

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C

5

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By Ornumbering at least 12 of these boxes in the order of your choice (with number 1 your first choice).

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Below the line of these boxes in the order of your choice (with number 1 as your first choice).

Given Names

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Vote above the line Number at least 6 boxes for parties or groups, in the order of your choice.

UNGROUPED SURNAME

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Senate Ballot Paper A B State – Election of 6 Senators

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Senate Ballot Paper State – Election of 6 Senators

PARTY PARTY

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S

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Learn how to vote correctly at aec.gov.au/translated Your vote will help shape Australia.

To learn more aec.gov.au/translated 1300 720 153

Authorised by the Electoral Commissioner, 10 Mort Street, Canberra.

APRIL 2025 39

We will get Australia back on track and help Australians get ahead.

Thank you to the IndianAustralian community for your outstanding contribution to our nation.

Peter Dutton

Leader of the Liberal Party

LET’S GET AUSTRALIA BACK ON TRACK A strong economy with low inflation.

We will reduce wasteful spending, support small businesses and halve the petrol tax, saving you 25 cents on every litre.

Cheaper energy. We will reserve more gas for Australians as part of a balanced energy mix, including more renewables and zero-emissions nuclear energy.

Affordable homes. We will fund the infrastructure required for housing and support first home buyers.

Safer communities. We will boost defence and border security, and enhance community safety.

Quality healthcare. We will fund more GPs, increase bulk billing and double the number of Medicare subsidised mental health sessions from 10 to 20.

To find out more go to:

www.liberal.org.au/our-plan

Authorised by A. Hirst, Liberal, Cnr Blackall and Macquarie Streets, Barton ACT 2600.

40 APRIL APRIL 2025 2025

www.indianlink.com.au SYDNEY EDITION