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Independents Day
ABY RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA
growing Indian Australian community naturally means a growing political presence; what better way to influence the future direction of the country than through the democratic privilege?
NSW goes to the polls on 14 September to elect its local government officials, and Indian Australians are putting themselves forward in a big way.
Of the nearly 3850 candidates in the fray, a record 96 are of Indian origin. They seek to represent communities from all across the state, from Albury to Dubbo, Griffith to Gwydir, Queanbeyan to Mid-Western Regional (Mudgee), Willoughby to Wingeribbee (Bowral).
Blacktown, as expected, tops the list with the highest number of desi candidates, with Cumberland, Campbelltown, Parramatta and Penrith next in line.
Though perhaps not as flash as elections held for higher levels of government, this year’s Local Council elections surprised us with an electoral fiasco, a major political party failing to put in nominations by the
stipulated time.
What is most surprising, however, is the number of candidates who have chosen to go Independent – a whopping 47 of the 96 Indian origin candidates are not affiliated to any party. Only 22 are attached to Labor, while Liberals, Greens and Others make up the rest.
Independents upending elections is a trend that’s exploding; who could forget the 2022 Federal Election, when they managed to divest a significant portion of the two major parties’ votes? If this and early polling is any indication, the rise of the Teals is set to continue, not just at the upcoming Local Council elections but into next year’s Federal Election too.
What’s most interesting about our Indipendents is that most are first generation migrants keen to contribute to their adopted country, who have been passed over for nominations from major parties.
For years, leaders of both Labor and the Coalition have declared their wish to be a party which looks like modern Australia with its plurality and multiculturalism. And yet, when it comes to pre-selections, it is often the pale (and mostly) male candidates that get put forward. Though a selfprofessed ‘migrant majority’ nation, a disappointing 8% of candidates at the 2022 Federal Election came
from backgrounds other than AngloAustralian. Candidates of colour are few and far between, and those that do get put forward are mostly jettisoned into the Opposition’s safe seats, which smacks of tokenism.
Rather than giving up on their endeavours to serve the community entirely, these Indian Australians have had the courage to stand as Independents.
On the other hand, those inside the tent note they had to work hard to get where they are – choosing their political alliances when they were young, rising up the ranks of their preferred party’s youth branch, volunteering at their local political office, helping with door knocking and working the booths on election day. They feel they’ve earned the right to progress - but migrants new to the system may have expectations of being parachuted in and when that does not occur, it could lead to frustration and disenchantment with the system.
Either way, the candidates are looking to make a paradigm shift, with many young first-timers from our community bringing a breath of fresh air. For too long it’s been lamented that we ought to step up and join the political process. Have we had enough dipping toes in the water, and are now charging into the ocean? Time will tell.
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YOUR SAY
WHAT DOES TASTE LIKE?
WHAT DOES INDIA TASTE LIKE?
On India’s Independence Day this year, LAKSHMI GANAPATHY encouraged readers to present a culinary tribute to the motherland.
Darshak Mehta wrote: Only I can understand the hard work and heartbreak compiling a story like this on favourites in our regional cuisine. Absolute food porn. Take a bow!
Chandan Sen wrote: India tastes like a soulful Bengali fish curry made with the simplest of ingredients. Paired with steaming hot rice, the dish is an epitome of simplicity.
Sruthi Sajeev wrote: Love how poetic some of these are – as a South Indian, I was not expecting foods like cherupayar and masala dosa to mean so much to people. But definitely agree with India tasting like chai. I’ll take chai morning, afternoon and night, thanks.
Khushee Gupta wrote: A great read. I appreciated the detailed anecdotes about North Indian cuisine, particularly the rich and varied flavours of the region. The descriptions of dishes like chole bhature and biryani were lovely and made me want to make some too! Missed seeing my own northern favourites - rajma and pakode. I also found myself wanting to know who these people were, kind of felt slightly detached not knowing a bit about their background - even a link to their social media pages would help.
Apoorva Tandon wrote: It is always fun trying different Indian dishes, and it never ceases to amaze me how rich and varied they all are! For me, India tastes like Tunday’s Kebabs and Lucknowi Biryani!!
Torsha Sen wrote: Loved every page of 'Taste of India'. There’s no doubt that India and food go hand in hand. The feature captures the vibrant multicultural food movement and reminds me how easily I tend to overlook the amazing diversity right in our backyard while getting lost in global cuisines. Each region has its special flavours and cooking techniques that reflect the rich heritage of its people. And most importantly, people sharing their food memories from their home-state made it such a delight. It encouraged me to dive into the culinary treasures India has to offer, celebrating my own unique gastronomic traditions alongside the global tapestry of flavours that we often overhype.
Rajni Luthra wrote: India tastes like the love my mum stuffs into her stuffed parathas (her invention of dill parathas my favourite); the concern in my dad’s voice whenever he admonished me gently for eating too many street-vendor tikkis or jalebis or kachori chaat or all of these (I miss him so much); the celebration in the festive meals my brother orders in every time I visit (six dishes too many); the list of new restaurants my foodie husband takes with us when we visit that we HAVE to try (Delhi belly be damned); the joy of wonderfully fancy dishes ‘so simple to cook’ that my sister-in-law treats us to (and for which recipes are then WhatsApp-ed); the bland chicken leg from the curry that my little boy has made me wash the masalas off; the vegemite my little girl has smeared over her plain dosa which she is loving (it’s now a family favourite); the seven pooris each for breakfast both kids (now young adults) eat that Nani makes for breakfast; the care with which a cousin says I’ve ordered 50 rotis from my local dhaba for you to take home; the packets of ‘the best asafoetida in the world’ that another cousin brings me (or the best chhole masala or the best gajak or the best chutney mix in the world); the laughs that accompany the hot cups of Kashmiri kehvawe drink with friends at Delhi Haat on a winter’s evening and the malai doodh and the kesar paan afterwards… India tastes like family and friends.
HOW MANY MORE NIRBHAYAS
The Kolkata rape case has 22-year-old KHUSHEEE GUPTA scared, angry and disappointed.
Sriraman Annaswamy wrote: Well said. Here in Australia, we've had the utterly shameful event of a young woman raped in what should be one of the safest places in Australia, the then Defence Minister's office within the Australian Parliament. It has taken years and a civil law suit brought about by the rapist himself for a judge to come to the conclusion that he was indeed a rapist!! Fully agree, time things changed for the better - in Kolkata, in Canberra, and all over the world.
Mahernaz Bengalli wrote: Before this unfortunate incident, wasn’t the whole nation shaken already by the Nirbhaya case? This crime needs capital punishment to put an end to it. It must be brought to an end – across all genders.
Sonum Garg wrote: This is so great, Khushee. Loved that Gloria Steinem quote.
Ritu Gupta wrote: I think this is the best article you have written, Khushee. So proud of you.
Kamakshi Palli Jindal wrote: This is a great read. Sharing it with my girls. Archna wrote: This is really a grave situation. Parents should educate and give sanskar to their sons to be more respectful towards women, and daughters fully equipped to protect themselves. Well written by Khushee.
Ankita Kapoor wrote: So many mixed feelings reading this!
Anmol Malhotra wrote: Everything I'm feeling was validated by this article. Thank you for writing this.
Isabella Lanske wrote: This is amazing. Khushee Gupta is so talented with words, especially for such a serious topic!
Ria Bhatia, Tasneem Vohra and Nikita Kapoor also wrote in notes of appreciation.
WHERE IN OZ
This is the second largest meteorite crater in the world. It was formed by a massive meteorite smashing onto Earth around 300,000 years ago. Where in Australia?
Reader Jillian Abery got the right answer: Wolfe Creek, WA
Celebrating 29 years and 27 Multicultural Media Awards Independence Day Issue
NSW LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS: IT’S INDEPENDENTS DAY
Amongst a record 96 Indian-origin contestants, a staggering 47 are contesting as Independents in the upcoming NSW Local Council elections.
RAJNI ANAND LUTHRA spoke with some of them.
Sukhmani Khorana wrote: Very interesting development re Independents, and perhaps shows wider disenchantment with the major political parties!
Mrigank Ojha wrote: It is indeed great to see the participation of Indianorigin contestants in elections all over the world. All the best to them. They will surely serve their communities well.
Jayaraman Guruswamy wrote: Interesting analysis. Great coverage.
Seema Raghav wrote: Appreciate your post. Amazing research regarding the candidates.
Indu Balachandran wrote: Great to see this.
Saba Nabi wrote: Thank you so much for your support
Sreeni Pillamarri wrote: Many thanks for your support. Means a lot,
Manjula Viswanath wrote: Thank you for your support.
Shaoquett Moselmane wrote: Raj Datta is a conscientious individual with his eyes firmly locked on community servie.
Moninder Singh wrote: Thank you for sharing my journey to Blacktown Council.
Vivek Goyal wrote: Thank you for an excellent coverage on all the candidates. It is greatly appreciated.
Sukhmani Khorana wrote again: Great to see this kind of ‘representation’ but more importantly, speaks volumes that most are standing as Independents. Perhaps the disenchantment with the major parties is not confined to the Muslim vote.
Purohit S Mahend Sharma wrote: Good work, contestants. Rajiv Thacker wrote: Awesome. Best wishes to all my fellow Indian brothers and sisters taking this bold step forward.
WHERE IN INDIA
This location was built in the 16th century, during the rule of Vijayanagara kings. It is noted for its intricate carvings, colourful frescoes, and a huge 70 ft tall monolithic Nandi (bull) statue. Where in India?
WRONG ANSWERS ONLY
We asked you, what's made Renuka Shahane so happy that she's dancing about it?
Sandeep Gupta wins a movie ticket for his response: Cucumber is down to $8 a kilo in her local grocery store.
Ritu Gupta wrote: She just saw Indian Link’s Don’t Talk Back podcast. Aruna Chandrala wrote: Ganapathi Bappa Moriyare, Bappa Moriyare.
Aman Vijan wrote: Picture mein role jaldi khatam hoga aur sabse pehle payment milegi (ref: HAHK)
Michelle Jones wrote: Because she realised uske haatho meh noh noh chudiya hain!
Mohammad Asif wrote: No daily soap beaten number of episodes of Surbhi.
Rhishikesh Bhagwat wrote: Kya karoon haai mujhe buddha mil gaya.
Taufeeq Ahmed Sheikh wrote: It's a season dance... She's happy winter’s finally over!
Preeti Kothari wrote: She’s so happy Salman Khan isn’t her brother-in-law in real life, only in the film!
Usha Thirumeni wrote: No cooking tonight!
Lily Gabriel Rodrigues wrote: She's finally put the kids to sleep. Now she can take her shower.
Nitin Gandhi wrote: Because (jokingly) she is the PCB chairman and the Indian team confirmed they’ll visit Pak for the Champions Trophy
Augustine Jiljilmary wrote: She just bought a house.
Tashu Sharma wrote: She's just won a $100 million lotto?
Himanshu Sharma wrote: She’s won a movie ticket from Indian Link
Ritu Singhal Bansal wrote: She just got to know who killed Bittoo's pet fish in Saas bhi kabhi bahu thi
Charu Chopra wrote: She’s just got her Australian PR after five years.
Meet Sandhu wrote: Her house is finally finished after a long struggle with dodgy builder.
Ravikumar Patel wrote: There is a change of script and she won’t be not falling down the stairs.
Chintan Kanabar wrote: Chandrika Dixit is eliminated from Bigg Boss.
Neha Niranjan wrote: She’s realised she’s on Indian Link.
Hetshri Pandit wrote: Her online order just arrived.
Smita Acharya wrote: Because Ganpati Bappa is coming soon.
Anu Singh wrote: Free bus travel for women announced by Arvind Kejriwal! Vandana Mathur wrote: Yaay! We’ve finally regressed to the 1940s. Well done. HAHK team!
Sree Ranjani wrote: Hubby’s taken the kids out for Father’s Day. Me time!
Srinivasan Iyer wrote: Hey… Mansi Kaushal ka video release hogaya!
Anjali Maindiratta wrote: The song Mera piya ghar aaya just came on.
Meena Sunder wrote: She’s lost so much weight, and everyone’s envious.
Kapil Sarohey wrote: She's going to visit India after getting PR!
Readers Usha Thirumeni, Amrutha Lavanya, Nagaraj Mysore, Anu Shivaram, Divya Praveen and Rajeev Ramakar Tiwari got the right answer: Lepakshi Temple, Andhra Pradesh.
Perceptions of the South Asian Diaspora
As the 2024 US election nears, the increasing engagement of the South Asian community is signalling its growing influence in future elections
TBY Srikanth Rajagopalan
he South Asian diaspora, an economically influential group in the US, has a complex view of Donald Trump. It is an immigrant community, torn between its economic success, which may lean Republican, and its social minority status, which would lean Democrat, and a perspective that is surprisingly neutral on South Asia itself - if the candidates are not explicitly against their home countries.
These preferences are shaped by a blend of cultural identity, economic interests, and individual experiences within the community. Even their name varies: are they Asian Indian, Indian, Pakistani or Bangladeshi American, or are they all South Asian? Historically, this is like the even more diverse Latino demographic, where Cubans, with their memory of Communism, are usually Republican, while Mexicans and Dominicans lean Democratic. South Asians’ varied perceptions of the Presidential candidates exemplify this complexity.
One area where South Asians do not matter: their actual number. They are usually too small to make a difference. However, their outsize economic influence,
ability to contribute to political parties and efforts to run for office through organised efforts like Indian American Impact leads to disproportionate influence. It is estimated that the Indian American PAC (Political Action Committee), Hindu-American PAC and others have contributed over US$20M since 2020. Often over US$3M has been raised in a single night, which rivals numbers raised in Hollywood parties. South Asians may have a small numerical voice, but Indians, in particular, have a huge financial megaphone.
Moreover, strong opinions drive stronger contributions. Business leaders Suresh Jaswal from New Jersey and Naren Velu from Arizona exemplify this as anti-Trump Republicans, who they feel is neither Republican nor conservative but a populist.
“Trump just beat Hillary Clinton because she was a poor candidate,” says Suresh, and “she trusted the wrong polls and did not even visit Wisconsin or Michigan,” opines Velu.
Salma Gulshan, a Pakistani-American doctor, is a Republican who is also uncomfortable with Trump as a past and possibly future President. Nowadays, to be President, “you don’t have to be a great person–just a great con artist.” Jaya, a highincome professional, takes a broader view. While she agrees that Trump’s policies might benefit her personally, she is more concerned about the country’s well-being:
“Cutting taxes may help me, but I don’t think
that is good for the country. I would vote against my interest but select a Democrat.”
Jaya also emphasises the importance of women’s rights and gun regulations, stating, “Republicans want to put in harsher controls after overturning Roe v. Wade.”
Ravneet, a bank executive from the Southwest, expresses disdain for Trump. She describes him as untrustworthy and “an idiot. I can’t stand him or listen to him anymore – I don’t like him or trust him.” Ravneet’s sentiments are indicative of a segment of the votary that views Trump’s leadership as fundamentally flawed.
In contrast, Ravi Palanivelu, a Democrat and university professor, has an unfavourable opinion: “People need to be in government to serve people, while Trump is running solely to stay away from prison. He lies. He instigated his base and caused the insurrection on Jan 6, 2021. On the other hand, Biden protected the government against the insurrection, led us out of the pandemic and implemented laws like the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS Act, so we are now better placed than any other country. I would have supported him for another four years but also support Kamala Harris.”
However, Harris herself, the Vice President, receives mixed reviews. She is seen as a symbol of progress for Indian Americans, while others are cautious about her stance on issues related to India. For
instance, Harris’s comments on Kashmir have raised concerns among IndianAmerican voters. This also reveals one thing. South Asia itself plays a tiny role - if the candidates are not vocally against their country of origin. However, in her memoir The Truths We Hold, Harris emphasises that her family “instilled us with pride in our South Asian roots.” Using the term “South Asian” rather than specifically identifying with India may resonate with some.
Regardless, another Pakistani-American business leader dislikes both political parties. “I don’t support either. Disgraceful that these two are the only ones this country could come up with.”
As the 2024 election approaches, these perspectives will play a role in shaping the political landscape. The growing engagement of the South Asian community suggests that its influence will only continue to expand and make it even more key in future elections. The successful candidate will be one who speaks to general American interests for the most part, with only minor attention being given to their foreign policy on South Asia.
Raja Gopalan is an enthusiastic observer of the India-US political scene. In his day job, he is the CEO of his third technology startup where he helps Fortune 1000 firms implement AI safely, effectively and with a demonstrated Return on their Investment.
Blinding Melb with STAR POWER
Kicking off unofficially in Canberra, this year’s IFFM has been the most ambitious yet, with hits and misses in the launch of a stamp, a networking night, and multiple world premieres
JBY LAKSHMI GANAPATHY
ust three years on from Melbourne’s lockdowns, the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) is back on top, drawing formidable crowds and delivering blockbuster attendees. Running 15 years strong, IFFM had Bollywood fever erupting all over the Garden State, and this time around, even in Capital Hill.
Perhaps the most memorable albeit unofficial start to a festival in recent memory, actor Rani Mukerji and filmmaker Karan Johar visited Parliament House, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in attendance. What seemed like it’d be an address to the House of Representatives was instead simply keynote speeches from Rani and KJo within the Parliamentary walls; not quite PM Modi level, but a testament to the festival’s colossal impact on the Australia-India relationship regardless.
Mukerji launched a commemorative stamp marking Yash Chopra’s fifty years of contribution to Indian cinema. Though not a general release stamp, it was a fitting tribute to a generation defining filmmaker
and patron of IFFM.
The following day saw IFFM launch officially with the long-awaited world premiere of their ‘My Melbourne’ project. A red-carpet affair coinciding with India’s 78th Independence Day, sparks of inclusion were in the air, the film showcasing diversity across race, gender, sexuality and disability.
The IFFM Awards night promised glitz and glamour, underpinned by star power from Ram Charan, Karthik Aaryan and Dr A R Rahman. But would it really be the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne if it wasn’t following that classic desi trait of starting everything late? Despite the best efforts of the hardworking red shirted festival team to keep things moving to schedule, it seems time is irrelevant if you’re a megastar adored by millions.
Dressed in his iconic neon boots and trademark Dhinawan feather and Murray
[white cockatoo] crest, Mitch Tambo kicked off proceedings with a rousing rendition of ICEHOUSE’s Great Southern Land in Gamilaraay language, a performance deserving of greater applause from a crowd eager for a glimpse of their ‘thalaiva’.
Other highlights included a powerful statement from Sona Mohapatra, who boldly and aptly addressed gender disparity and rape on stage, just days on from the outrageous murder of a Kolkata medical student.
A cracking dance number from the Emotion 21 troupe set the room alight, and even Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts couldn’t help shaking a leg and cracking a joke amongst the jubilant atmosphere.
A characteristically shy Dr A R Rahman was awarded ‘Excellence in Cinema’, while ‘Best Performance’ went to Parvathy Thiruvothu for Ullozhukku (Female) and
Kartik Aaryan for Chandu Champion (Male). The coveted ‘Ambassador for Indian Arts and Culture’ honour went to the illustrious Ram Charan; though understandably reluctant to break into his iconic Naatu Naatu in his all-black suit, he noted the milestone moment for South Indian cinema.
Unfortunately, many of the stars on the night, including Ram Charan, were disrupted by hecklers and mobbed by fans baying for attention; one audience member even blocked Kartik Aaryan’s path to the stage, demanding a hug.
Known for his patriotic turn in RRR and his charitable work during the pandemic, Ram Charan was an appropriate candidate to hoist the tricolour the following morning at Federation Square. Malaika Arora delivered effortless charm as the host of the dance contest, with surprise guest judge Peter Hitchener of 9 News even showing
us a few moves! Laksh Lalwani however, seemed perplexed as to his role, dishing out 10s left, right, and centre like some sort of Bollywood Oprah Winfrey.
That night, the worldwide premiere screening of Rohit Gupta’s documentary Headhunting to Beatboxing was a visually stunning triumph of storytelling, educating audiences about the rarely covered Nagaland region of India. It’s an important piece that’s sure to sweep the awards circuit; here’s hoping it gets a repeat screening when A R Rahman returns to our shores in October.
Then comes the ‘rest of the fest’; once the stars moved on and the big-ticket weekend finished, unfortunately, attendance dwindled, with numerous screenings sadly near empty. This lack of momentum wasn’t helped by overlapping time slots, inconveniently located cinemas and poor advertising; perhaps one of the strangest
moves was placing the world premiere of Vikrant Massey’s Sector 36 at 9:15pm, though those who did see the confronting and visceral film could maybe understand why this was done.
Nonetheless, Week 2 IFFM was still alive and kicking, with lots of fun still to be had. Boasting 65 films in 27 languages, including films by 21 female directors, there were plenty of gems for those who looked, including B for Naoo and Savitri Chya Leki, both films about children pursuing education amidst difficult circumstances.
The centrepiece film Mrs, a Hindi
adaptation of the Malayalam hit The Great Indian Kitchen, screened to an encouraging crowd who were awed by and invested in Sanya Malhotra’s (who was in attendance) stellar performance as an oppressed housewife. Mrs and Headhunting to Beatboxing also screened in Geelong, Shepparton and Bendigo, where it would no doubt have enthralled regional audiences.
The newest IFFM venture ‘Baari’, a comedy night-artist panel-networking event all-in-one was a lively, albeit confusing affair, the tightly packed bar venue not
exactly conducive of any of its three purported aims. Comedians attempted the Sisyphean endeavour of commanding the attention of a crowd with alcohol and a desire to chat, then last-minute special guest Vikrant Massey shifted the night to a reflective tone with his thoughtful answers; a highlight, that is, if you could jostle to the front for a glimpse of him.
The night then catapulted us from fireside chat to bonfire rave, Bollywood pop fusion bangers blasting at a deafening volume and Dilonce setting the floor ablaze, whilst attendees engaged in ‘vibrant cultural
exchanges’ by farcically shouting in each other’s ears. Nonetheless, though lacking in execution, ‘Baari’ is a well-meaning endeavour which could be promising in future, particularly if it were held elsewhere and focused down in its scope.
Closing Night film Girls Will Be Girls, was a tense and delicious exploration of gendered power with standout performances from newcomers Preeti Panigrahi and Kesav Binoy Kiron; a fitting end to a festival which began with an affirmation of diversity, during a difficult year for women in Australia and India.
IABCA AWARDS 2024
Esha Oberoi, Founder
Asha Bhat OAM, of Southern Aboriginal Corporation in WA, a social justice and human rights advocate who has made significant impact in the lives of women in
The NAB Innovation Centre India encourages innovation in financial technology and seeks to increase customer engagement. Its role in strengthening business relations between India and Australia won it the Australia India Impact Award (Organisation).
Entrepreneurs Mannu Kala and Dr. Anuj Gupta founded KnG Healthcare to tackle COVID-19, introducing mass vaccination hubs and drive-through testing. This protected health workers, improved testing efficiency, and created numerous jobs, earning them the Excellence in Innovation award.
Asian Smart Cities Research Innovation Network (ASCRIN) is an interdisciplinary collaborative network between La Trobe University, IIT Kanpur and Birla Institute of Technology & Science Pilani. They connect researchers, the public sector and business people to improve the future of cities in Asia. They won the Excellence in Partnerships award.
Zone IT Solutions won the SME of the Year award for bridging Indian IT professionals with the Australian job market, offering flexible staffing, free job search consulting, and migration support.
The managing director of Neo Health (OTC) Pty Ltd, visionary leadership in streamlining the delivery of a wide range of pharmaceutical products to retailers and pharmaceutical companies won him the Managing Director of the Year Award.
Aamir Qutub, one-time international student at Deakin University, who took on cleaning jobs to support himself enroute to becoming a millionaire techie as CEO and founder of Enterprise Monkey, a multinational digital firm, claimed the Young Professional of the Year
Australian Macademias, who successfully entered the Indian market through strategic events and collaborations with local restaurants and a trade forum which boosted awareness, positioning macadamias as a sought-after product there, took
Prabha Nandagopal, human rights and discrimination lawyer, and founder of Elevate Consulting Partners, and who’s passionate about workplace culture reform, won Business Leader of the Year
Sarah Todd, celebrity chef, restaurateur and food writer, who went straight from MasterChef Australia to founding a restaurant chain in India and her own gourmet brand Hot Toddy, took home the Australia India Individual Impact
Shivani Gopal, a leading advocate of mentoring for women who founded the social enterprise Elladex and co-founded the fintech startup Upstreet, became IABCA’s Business Woman of the Year this year.
Team’s innovative approach
Fashion designer and founder of the
longtime collaboration with Indian entrepreneur Jaggi
brought Lifetime Achievement award.
CAMILLA Camilla
Bakshi
to ear reconstruction surgery through the combination of cutting-edge 3D bioprinting technology, prosthetics and other materials won them the Australia India Science, Research & Development Award.
Fitting gala for tenth anniversary
It’s a prestigious venue for a milestone anniversary, as the IABCA Awards honour excellence in business in the India-Australia realm
WBY RAJNI ANAND
ho would have thought it possible
– the Great Hall at the Australian Parliament House overrun with more than a touch of India.
The design of this most prestigious ceremonial space is intended to show the manner in which the physical environment has shaped Australia.
Well, on this occasion, it showed how the multicultural environment has shaped Australia.
The Great Hall was the venue for the 10th annual India Australia Business and Community Alliance IABCA awards in midAugust.
Its centrepiece, a celebrated tapestry based on a painting by Australian artist Arthur Boyd, was temporarily blocked off by Indian artifacts. However, much larger in size, it watched on magnanimously from above as excellence in business in the India-Australia realm was honoured.
Watching on also, were Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, Trade Minister Don Farrell, the Chief Minister of ACT Andrew Barr, and a host of leaders from the political, government and corporate worlds.
Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister Mr Albanese said, “Indian-Australians are creating their own success in so many fields of endeavour. From business and enterprise to science, culture, sport and the arts, Australia’s large and growing Indian communities add so much dynamism and talent to our country. You enrich who and what we are as a nation, in all of our promise and all of our possibility, continuing a wonderful and proud story that has been written by generations of IndianAustralians.”
He added, “It has long been the dream of successive generations of migrants to start a small or family business. So it is important that we gather to celebrate the entrepreneurship, innovation, and contribution of the Indian Australian community.”
Sonia Sadiq Gandhi, head of Gandhi Creations who organise the annual awards, pointed out he was the first Prime Minister to attend the event.
She said in her welcome address, “As the
founder of IABCA, it fills me with immense pride to witness how our platform has evolved over the years. What began as an awards program to recognise the unsung heroes of our business landscape has now transformed into a dynamic, non-membership alliance that bridges two vibrant nations. The IABCA Awards are a beacon of excellence, highlighting the remarkable contributions of individuals and organisations that strengthen the ties between India and Australia.”
She described the Alliance as celebrating stories of innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit that resonates beyond borders. “The Alliance’s strength lies in its ability to unite diverse voices and perspectives, working closely with key industry chambers and leaders to create opportunities for collaboration that impact sectors ranging from business and trade to culture and social impact.”
Awards were announced in 14 categories this year (see pics on pages 16-17).
It was particularly pleasing to see many women in the finalists and winners lists, as well as those that started out in Australia as international students. (One awardee, Mannu Kala of KnG Healthcare, took the opportunity to bring to attention the plight of international students stretched to their limits as they struggle to finish their degrees).
Sonia said of the awardees on the night, “I am continually inspired and humbled by the dedication and passion of our nominees and the broader international entrants we engage with. I believe their achievements will continue to pave the way for a more connected and prosperous future between our two great nations. It is an honour to be part of this journey, and I look forward to many more years of celebrating business excellence together.”
LUTHRA
Host Sonia Sadiq Gandhi welcomes special guests including the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
High Commissioner Gopal Baglay presents the award for Community Services Excellence to Asha Bhat (collected by Dr Parvinder Kaur)
Trade Minister Don Farrell presents the award for Business Woman of the Year to Shivani Gopal
Capturing the cosmos
Astrophotographer Taranjot Singh has been nominated for the Siena Creative Awards, where he is currently in the top 5
UBY MAMTA SHARMA
nder the vast expanse of the night sky, where the shimmering stars tell tales of ancient mysteries and distant worlds, Sydneybased Taranjot Singh’s journey into astrophotography began with a simple yet profound fascination.
A landscape photographer for some time, the night sky caught his attention on one occasion in 2019, as he first glimpsed the Milky Way in its full splendour. He aimed his Nikon D850 upwards, and was hooked.
“There was something mesmerising about the stars, the vastness of space, and the mystery it held,” Taranjot Singh tells Indian Link.
“The allure of the night sky became irresistible. Every clear night was an opportunity to connect with the universe, to capture a moment in time that had travelled across light-years to reach my lens.”
Today, his deep-seated love for capturing
the celestial wonders of the cosmos has seen him receive seven NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) recognitions.
“Each one of these is a milestone that validates the countless hours spent under the night sky,” Taranjot reveals.
A particularly proud moment came recently, when his image ‘Stellar Symphony’ was selected to represent Australia in the Siena Creative Awards, where he is currently in the top 5.
“Being recognised on such a prestigious platform is a significant honour,” Taranjot shares.
His work has also been featured in notable publications, as well as awarded on leading photography website 1x.com, further cementing his place in the field.
One of Taranjot’s most memorable photos is of the Carina Nebula, a subject that symbolises both his early struggles and ultimate triumphs. “When I first
attempted to capture the Carina Nebula, the results were far from what I had envisioned,” he admits. However, after years of perseverance and learning, he finally succeeded in capturing the nebula in stunning detail. “This image became a turning point for me,” he says. It was featured in an interview with BBC Sky at Night magazine and earned him a spot in the Siena Creative Awards.
Overcoming cosmic challenges
Astrophotography is fraught with challenges, and mastering technical aspects was a significant hurdle for Taranjot.
“Understanding how to use telescopes, equatorial mounts, and dedicated astro cameras was a steep learning curve,” he notes. Persistence and experimentation were key to overcoming these obstacles.
“I spent countless nights adjusting settings and learning from failures,” he adds. The support of online communities also played a crucial role.
Unpredictable weather posed another challenge, with many nights marred by cloud cover. “I’ve learned to be patient and
Carinae Nebula
Taranjot Singh; his photography equipment
flexible,” Taranjot says.
Additionally, capturing deep space objects like the Carina Nebula required dealing with faint light and long exposure times. “Achieving a sharp, detailed image took years of practice and refinement,” he explains. Staying motivated through setbacks and focusing on the bigger picture were vital to his success.
“What helped me overcome this was focusing on the bigger picture and the passion that drives me. Every failure was a learning opportunity, and each small success was a step forward. Keeping that perspective has been crucial in maintaining my enthusiasm and drive over the years. Astrophotography is not just about capturing beautiful images; it’s a journey of persistence, learning, and constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Each challenge I’ve faced has made me a better photographer and deepened my connection to the night sky.”
Opportunities in Australia
Living in Australia has significantly influenced Taranjot’s work. The country’s dark skies and diverse landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for astrophotography. “Australia is blessed with some of the darkest skies in the world,” he observes. The Southern Hemisphere’s unique view of the night sky and the diverse landscapes offer opportunities to blend Earth’s beauty with celestial wonders.
Taranjot’s cultural heritage has also shaped his perspective. “A sense of wonder and curiosity about the universe was instilled in me in my childhood through stories and myths associated with the stars in my heritage,” he explains.
These have inspired him to view the cosmos as a tapestry of human experience and connection.
Australia’s strong support for scientific and artistic pursuits has provided Taranjot with numerous opportunities. “The country’s international reputation in astronomy has provided platforms for my work to be recognised globally,” he says. The thriving astro community and dark sky reserves have allowed him to explore and capture new images regularly.
The future of astrophotography holds immense potential, driven by rapid technological advancements and a growing global fascination with space exploration. Taranjot believes that “the rapid advancement of technology is making astrophotography more accessible than ever before,” as high-quality equipment becomes more affordable, and software continues to evolve. This accessibility allows a wider audience to capture stunning images of the cosmos, pushing the boundaries of what can
be explored and understood. He also sees a rising interest in space exploration fuelling the popularity of astrophotography, with more people becoming curious about the universe beyond our planet.
“Astrophotography is not just a scientific pursuit; it’s also a form of creative expression and storytelling,” Taranjot Singh explains, emphasising how the diversity of perspectives in this field enriches it and connects people with the cosmos in profound ways.
For those passionate about or considering taking up astrophotography, Taranjot’s message is clear: “Dive in with curiosity and patience,” understanding that every great image is born from practice, perseverance, and a deep-seated sense of wonder.
“Don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks,” he adds.“Every great image starts with practice and perseverance. Embrace the process of learning, experiment with different techniques, and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of your creativity.
The night sky is vast and full of wonder, and there’s always something new to discover.
By pursuing this passion, you’re joining a community of explorers and storytellers who are helping to connect people with the cosmos. Remember, every photograph you take is a unique moment in time, a piece of the universe that you’ve captured and can share with the world.”
Expanding horizons
Taranjot’s future goals encompass raising awareness about light pollution, educating youth, and building an observatory.
“I want to inspire responsible lighting practices,” he says. He’s also excited about creating programs for kids to learn about the night sky and dreams of building an observatory dedicated to young aspiring astrophotographers.
On a personal level, Taranjot looks forward to continuing deep space photography and embracing new technologies. “There are countless celestial objects I have yet to capture,” he says. Innovation and collaboration with other experts are key to his ongoing growth. “I’m excited to work with others and explore new techniques,” he adds.
Engaging with the community is another priority. “I plan to develop workshops and online courses to help aspiring astrophotographers,” he shares.
By sharing his knowledge, Taranjot Singh hopes to inspire others, contribute to the growth of the astrophotography community, and ensure that the beauty of the cosmos continues to captivate and inspire future generations.
Follow Taranjot’s work on the Instagram account @astromaniaaustralia
Lagoon Nebula
Milky Way as seen from Mungo National Park
Meteor showers
How many more Nirbhayas?
The horror of the Kolkata rape case leaves women terrified of their personal safety, and in despair about a society that fails to find measures to fix a social problem
TBY KHUSHEE GUPTA
he recent Kolkata rape case has left me feeling scared, furious, and deeply disappointed. How can such a monstrous act still occur in a world that claims to be evolving? I’m terrified –terrified for myself, for my friends, and for the future daughters we hope to raise in a world that should be safe for them. But how can we ever trust that safety when our worst fears are constantly validated by such appalling realities?
It’s the indicator of a society that continues to fail us and a country that seems to normalise rape culture.
Moumita Debnath, a 31-year-old trainee doctor was raped and murdered at the hospital she worked. There were scratch marks on her face, her thyroid cartilage (neck) was fractured, she was bleeding from her eyes, mouth and genitals. The post-mortem report indicated that the injuries on her body were attributed to “perverted sexuality and genital torture”.
How does that make you feel?
As a 22-year-old Indian girl living in Australia, my heart sinks every time I hear about another brutal incident. The details are too gruesome to digest, and a wave of dread washes over me. I feel unsafe, vulnerable, and most of all, powerless. I’m thousands of miles away, living in a ‘seemingly safer country’ – yet these horrific acts tend to cross borders. They make me question the very idea of security,
reminding me that the threat is real, that it could happen to anyone, anywhere.
Whenever I go back to India, there’s a part of me that is always on alert. It’s as if these news stories have heightened my senses, making me notice the subtle yet unnerving things that I might have otherwise overlooked. The way men on bikes drive past, their eyes lingering just a moment too long, or the uncomfortable feeling you get when you realise someone has been on the same path as you for a while. Safety is a luxury, not a guarantee.
Comments on women’s clothing – even by other women – anger and disappoint me equally. How can anyone, often times women themselves, be so ignorant, so blind to the fact that rape is not about what a woman
wears? Clothing has nothing to do with it – it’s the mentality of men who feel entitled to a woman’s body, knowing that they’ll likely go unpunished for such a heinous crime.
Upon investigation, Kolkata police arrested Sanjay Roy who had been described as a womaniser and domestic abuser. Confessing to the crime, he reportedly “showed no remorse while narrating the incident.”
Clearly, Sanjay thinks he did no wrong. He has no regrets, and he isn’t afraid of retribution. What’s the most that will happen? He will be in jail for life and will die on his own terms. That is it.
With patriarchy at its helm, a country in its 78th year of Independence teaches women to stay in their place. That you are not safe.
Our men, when questioned, get all
Gloria Steinem once said, “Though we have the courage to raise our daughters like sons, we’ve rarely had the courage to raise our sons like our daughters.”
When was the last time you spoke to your son about the way he should treat his female peers?
Or
are you one of those people that tell your daughters to be careful, not go out at night, and carry pepper spray?
defensive. “Why are you attacking the entire gender?” Come on man, it’s not about you, for once in your life.
How many more “Nirbhayas” will find themselves in the news? Do rape victims deserve just a candle-light march?
Celebrities put up Pinterest quotes, protestors take to the streets, and social media blows up with emotionally charged posts. That’s where this cycle ends. It all starts back up again until we hear of the next rape case. Today, I see women everywhere, including Australia – a country where domestic violence is a reality known all too well – sharing stories of violence against women in no hope. All we can do, including myself, is just rant – in anger, in pain, or both.
How can we work towards a safer society for women?
I cannot even begin to explain the importance of restricting access to porn websites that show violent, non-consensual or underage sex. Instead, look to implementing comprehensive sex education at schools guiding boys AND girls from a young age on what is right and wrong.
How about a revisit of how we are raising our boys?
Gloria Steinem once said, “Though we have the courage to raise our daughters like sons, we’ve rarely had the courage to raise our sons like our daughters.”
When was the last time you spoke to your son about the way he should treat his female peers – including of course his sister, friend and wife?
Or are you one of those people that tell your daughters to be careful, not go out at night, and carry pepper spray?
When overpolicing creates more criminals
IBY KHUSHEE GUPTA
n an era where the complexities of modern policing are increasingly under the spotlight, Critical Incident, a recent show on Stan Australia, offers a poignant exploration of over-policing and its impact on vulnerable communities in Australia. Directed by Indian-origin filmmaker Neil Sharma known for his previous work on shows like Heartbreak High and Mother and Son, this psychological crime-thriller breaks new ground with its raw depiction of life in Western Sydney.
Set against the gritty backdrop of Blacktown, the show delves into the lived experiences of marginalised youth, drawing from the real-world experiences of the show’s creator, Sarah Bassiuoni. “In a previous life, Sarah was a lawyer and largely
dealt with underprivileged and overpoliced youth,” Neil explains. “So this was all very much from her brain and her experience. The specificity of the script is very much because of her lived experience.”
For Neil, stepping into the world of Critical Incident was an opportunity to flex different skills and tell stories that resonate on a deeper, more authentic level. “What was exciting for me was getting the chance to direct a show that was a little bit different to the things I’ve done in the past… I got to tell stories that were a lot more authentic and a little bit more lensed with a multicultural cast, crew and location in Western Sydney.”
The show, which garnered attention even before its release with a viral TikTok filmed at Blacktown Station had everyone thinking they were filming NCIS Sydney, features a diverse cast that mirrors the multicultural tapestry of Greater Western Sydney. At the heart of the story is Constable Zilficar Ahmed, portrayed by British-Indian actor Akshay Khanna, who brings a fresh and
Indian-origin director Neil Sharma's new Stan Australia show Critical Incident explores the impact of overpolicing on marginalised communities
nuanced perspective to the role of a police officer navigating the challenges of his profession.
“For us, trying to make an authentic show set in Blacktown in Western Sydney, we wanted it to look and feel authentic and real,” Sharma notes. “For the cast, it’s probably the thing I’m most proud of in the show – the casting and how diverse everybody is and the different backgrounds and stories and what they brought to each character.”
Khanna, a London-based actor, was a standout choice for the role, impressing the team with his ability to embody the character with authenticity, including nailing the challenging Aussie accent. “He blew us away with his auditions. He had the right look and feel and attitude… We wanted the show to just feel like what Greater Western Sydney is rather than what its usual lens does in other shows.”
The director was also keen to ensure that the show’s portrayal of policing was nuanced and thought-provoking. “We didn’t want
to spoon-feed the audience too much. We just wanted to depict a scenario and raise the question of does over-policing create more criminals than it helps? It’s up to the audience to kind of make that call.”
This approach to storytelling is what makes Critical Incident stand out – it doesn’t offer easy answers but instead encourages viewers to engage with the material and draw their own conclusions. “For me personally, it was just important to kind of lay that question out without being too didactic about how to answer it,” the director says.
With the support of Screen Australia, the show was able to maintain its integrity and vision, with little interference in the storytelling process. “Screen Australia is incredibly supportive and through their funding, all things are possible in the show… I guess they were really happy with the content in pre-production because what was set out in pre-production seems to be what we shot.”
As for the future, Neil Sharma is committed to continuing this trend of authentic representation in his projects.
“It’s a really big deal for me to make sure the diversity on screen isn’t going to go away and is a thing that is kind of set in cement now… It’s just far more interesting storytelling.”
Critical Incident is a mirror held up to society, reflecting the complexities and consequences of policing in Australia today. With its multicultural cast and its setting in the vibrant and diverse landscape of Western Sydney, the show is a powerful reminder of the importance of authentic storytelling in television.
Photo: IMDb Neil Sharma
Lead actors Akshay Khanna and Zoë Boe Akshay Khanna in action
Photo: Instagram
WBY SRUTHI SAJEEV
atching Dhee have her hair braided by her grandmother in the video of her recent hit is bound to tug at the heartstrings of many women of South Asian origin. It’s a subtle call to remember the beauty of your roots and to wear it like a medal.
In fact, it’s what singing sensation and former Sydneysider, Dhee, calls her new number: I Wear My Roots Like a Medal.
Armed with a unique voice that can now be recognised by every South Indian, Dhee has been wowing audiences just as much with her musical knowledge as with her impeccable fashion sense.
Who would have thought that the schoolgirl who spent most of her evenings wandering about in a place as mundane as Parramatta Westfields would find her way in the recording studios of some of the greatest musical talents in the Indian film industry?
That dream realised, Dhee has now transitioned into the Western Independent music industry through her debut album Jackfruit.
What’s evident is that the singer is undeterred by the notion of introducing her music to an audience that has so far been woefully unaware of her work despite her successes in South Asia. If anything, it is the honesty and the transparency in her lyrics that have been making her nervous.
“With playback singing, you’re singing from a script, but “Dhee” is not really there,” she remarks. “Therefore, there’s a lot of vulnerability in this album, which is mainly the thing that worries me.”
“Roots Song,” as Dhee lovingly calls it, is a number that is intended to make a statement both lyrically and sonically. A powerful Tamil folk inspired sound introduces the song to listeners and anchors it in its central theme of ancestry and generational trauma.
When Dhee first encountered this sound, she was sitting in on a recording session conducted by her father Santhosh Narayanan who is also one of her biggest inspirations in music.
“The first thought that popped up into my head was that this was something that Beyonce would walk to live on stage,” she laughs.
Despite telling her father how much she loved the sound, it remained untouched, languishing away in some file, until Dhee was finally granted permission to use it. This sound was the genesis of the “Roots Song” as she spent the next few days recording the highly quotable refrain, “Now I got my foot on the pedal, so I wear my roots like a medal.”
Similarly, the music video for “Roots Song,” was also a product of chance, musical instinct, and teamwork.
“Obviously, we planned a lot of things, but some of the things which happened were so unexpected and magical. We intended it to be as close to real life as possible, but it’s kind of like I basically relived my mum’s childhood. My mum recognised so many people in the video and remarked on how she had experienced so many of the things that I was only acting out. It’s just amazing to know that I’ve been able to relive my mum’s life in some kind of way.”
In contrast, her first release, Can’t You Stay a Little Longer is an ode to homesickness. Whilst it has an ‘easy tune,’ and is supported by a music video resplendent with pastel colours, it
Wearing her roots like a medal
Having been heard by millions of Indian listeners, Sydneyborn singer Dhee has now taken the leap into the Western Independent music genre
is underpinned by a deep sense of yearning.
“This song came from a time when I really missed home,” Dhee describes. “I felt like I was on the move, constantly leaving people behind or seeing them leave, so that’s where Can’t You Stay a Little Longer came from. Then it naturally evolved into a song about the everyday things you miss when the person you love isn’t around.”
If there’s a trope that characterises Dhee’s work, it’s the romanticisation of rural and local communities. This is portrayed not only through her lyrics through references to “bicycle rides to tuition,” but also through her music videos, where scenes are often
set in nature and where actors make faded saris look fashionable. This somewhat takes the edge off the heavier themes of intergenerational trauma which feature in her music.
“I didn’t want to put anything out there that would make people feel bad. I speak about the Sri Lankan civil war and generational trauma, but I also want to show how there’s also hope for the future,” she explains.
With the album being a work in progress for now nearly three years, it’s no surprise that all Dhee wants to do now is tour.
“The best feeling in the world is when
people sing back at you and when they relate to the story you’re telling.”
Relatable moments are sprinkled throughout the music video of both her songs, such as having her hair braided by her grandmother as they both sit on the footsteps of their ancestral home. Scenes like these have occurred in the lives of hundreds of women, and Dhee’s recreation of this gives audiences the opportunity to vicariously experience moments which may have been lost in the recesses of their memories.
Dhee’s bravery to be vulnerable will define Jackfruit and make it an album which encourages listeners to embrace their roots.
Would you rather say
No to a drink
No, I’ve lost my licence, I can’t take you to school. or
There are worse things than saying ‘No’ to a drink when you’re going to drive, and it’s not just you who is affected. If you’re caught drink driving, significant penalties will apply and you will lose your licence.
Take responsibility. If you drink, don’t drive.
Omkar Palav ‘nose’ he’s
Officially Amazing
The Adelaide resident broke the record for fastest time typing with his nose, all whilst adjusting to family life in Australia
MBY LAKSHMI GANAPATHY
any dream of achieving greatness, but few have what it takes to be ‘Officially Amazing’…
Enter 37-year-old Omkar Palav, who has made history in perhaps the most unlikely way possible: by typing the alphabet with his nose!
Palav has seized the Guinness World Record for ‘Fastest Time Typing the Alphabet With His Nose’, hammering out A to Z with a space in between each letter in an impressive 20 seconds and 51 milliseconds. Of course, he’s aware of how funny that sounds.
“I want people to enjoy; I don’t mind, even if people laugh. It’s an achievement; even if people laugh at something I’ve done, laughter is the best medicine,” he says.
He’s since been dubbed the ‘Typing Man of Australia’, and is already planning his next challenges, which include typing the alphabet with his pinkies, and memorising the first 100 digits of Pi.
“It’s a huge responsibility that I have to maintain. It doesn’t stop here… my goal is to try to break my own record in the future,” he says.
Unlike many World Record attempters, Omkar Palav is completely self-funded, with no sponsors or team behind him. To ratify his attempt in July, he had to employ a videographer, professional timekeepers from Athletics SA and independent witnesses, before sending the footage to the Guinness World Records board to analyse, a process
which can take up to three months.
“It took me a lot of effort to find these people; apart from my day-to-day routine and practicing, I had to find these people and explain what I was doing to them, convince them to get involved,” he says.
Revering Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar as a child, Palav says he’s long aspired to represent his country and push past his limits.
“I’ve always been inspired by the Olympic athletes, but I am a middle-class person – I have to look after my family and my job. I can’t give my life to sports, I must have an income,” he says.
Though life took a different direction, Palav has never stopped hoping to do something outstanding.
“This is something unique, and that’s what the Guinness World Records are about – [doing] something extraordinary.
That’s what interests me – what is that thing people don’t usually do,” he says.
“I came across [typing with nose], and thought, I can do this – and I was able to, surprisingly! Now it’s official, I have a certificate, and it’s marvellous.”
An IT worker for over 15 years, Omkar Palav and his family moved to Adelaide just last year.He works full time to support his wife and 7-year-old daughter.
“Moving here, and with a new job and settling in, it was quite difficult [to go for a record], especially with my family as well. There was a lot of things going on in this previous year and I had some health issues as well but I overcame them; those things did not stop me.”
Palav was determined to succeed, practicing for three to four hours late at night, after his family had gone to bed. Training diligently for eight months prior to his attempt, he even logged each of his attempts and performed statistical analysis to improve his timing.
“I thought, let’s step up and try to do this… I knew I had to go to bed, but I was so excited! I was so determined to do it, and I kept going,” he remembers.
Like many great athletes, health issues marred his training somewhere down the track.
“When my health went down, I thought this isn’t possible, this is too much stress, and I cancelled my application,” Palav says.
“But [doing this] kept me going and helped me forget about my health issues; it built a sense of motivation, an objective to achieve.”
His 7-year-old daughter Anjni Palav also helped him train, holding down the G5 timer whilst he practiced.
“I want to be a great father for her, so she’s proud. This [record] is the best I think I can give her so far, but maybe there’s more to come in the future,” Palav says.
Hoping to secure his PR next year, Omkar Palav says achieving the record in his new home has made it even more special.
“I have done this in Australia [so] it’s much closer to my heart. I feel proud being an Indian, and I love being in Australia too,” he says. “This doesn’t belong only to me, but it’s for all Indians and Australians around the world.”
He looks forward to attaining more records for our community and cementing his name amongst the greats.
“Sachin Tendulkar said ‘keep dreaming, keep training, and when the time comes, step up and achieve something great’, and that’s what I follow.It doesn’t stop here. I will try my best, whatever it takes, I’m ready to go.”
Palav was determined to succeed, practicing for three to four hours late at night, after his family had gone to bed. Training diligently for eight months prior to his attempt, he even logged each of his attempts and performed statistical analysis to improve his timing.
Record-breaking streak
Here are all of India’s wins in what has been the country’s finest performance at the Paralympic Games
IBY SRUTHI SAJEEV
n India, like elsewhere, the Paralympics have always been overshadowed by the Olympics, despite the fact that if anything, the former often serves as a more powerful reminder of the capacity of humans to overcome any impediment. This has never been more evident than in the 2024 Games where India won 29 medals, including 7 gold, 9 silver and 13 bronze.
SHOOTING
Avani Lekhara became one of India’s first success stories at the Games after her remarkable win in the women’s 10m air rifle shooting category on 30 August. She won
gold after breaking the record that she had set in her Paralympics debut at Tokyo 2020, with a final score of 249.7. This makes her the first Indian woman to win two golds in the Paralympics and the second Indian to do so after javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia.
Adding further significance to this event was the fact that for the first time in Indian sporting history, two contestants made it to the podium in the same event, with Mona Agarwal taking the bronze.
Rubina Francis also secured a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event. It was a tense match in which she had initially fallen out of the podium position during the second stage. It was only after knocking out Turkey’s Aysegül Pehlivanlar, that she managed to reach podium.
Other successes in the shooting arena include Manish Narwal’s silver medal in the men’s 10m air pistol event.
SPRINT
Whilst the shooting tournaments were all the rage in the first week of the Games, many couldn’t stop talking about young sprinter Preethi Pal, who became the first female Indian athlete to win two medals in track and field, an achievement that has yet to be realised by an Indian Olympic athlete in this sport.
The 23-year-old finished third in the women’s 100m race with a timing of 14.21 seconds. Shortly afterwards, Pal also brought home bronze at the 200m race, with a timing of 30.01, coming third to Chinese athletes Xia Zhou and Guo Quianquian in both races.
Deepthi Jeevanji won bronze for the 400m race with a timing of 55.82s, finishing only 00.66s behind the gold medallist.
Second time Paralympian Simran Sharma
won another bronze for India through her efforts in the women’s 200m T12 category. This win was historic as it marked India’s first medal in the category.
HIGH-JUMP
All eyes were on long-time rivals Nishad Kumar and the USA’s Roderick TownsendRoberts during the finals of the men’s high jump T47 event in their gruelling fight for the gold. Unfortunately for Kumar, his efforts in the arena were not enough to better his personal best score, at 2.10m and he ultimately lost to Townsend-Roberts’ 2.12m jump thus winning a silver medal. Praveen Kumar took gold in the men’s high jump T47 event after reaching the 2.08m mark, thus breaking the Asian record. This is his second
consecutive medal, after winning silver at the Tokyo Olympics.
Another double podium finish was achieved by Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thangavelu who won the silver and bronze medals respectively in the men’s high jump T63 category, making Thangavelu the first Indian para-athlete to win medals at three consecutive games.
THROWING EVENTS
India’s seventh gold medal was claimed by Navdeep Singh in the men’s javelin throw at the F41 category (a stunning performance, PB 47.32m). This also marked India’s first gold medal in the category.
Sumit Antil impressed next, in the men’s javelin throw FG4 class. This was a monumental occasion which saw the world record holder beat his previous Paralympic record with a score of 70.59m, thus becoming the first Indian para-athlete to defend his title.
Yogesh Kathuniya won the silver medal in the men’s discus throw F56 event at the Paris Paralympics with a score of
Kathuniya had also taken home the silver medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar won silver and bronze medal respectively in the men’s javelin throw F46 class, another double podium finish for India.
Sachin Sarjerao Khilari won the silver medal for shot put in the F46 event, with a score of 16.32 that broke the record he had set at the World Para Athletics Championships earlier this year.
Hokato Hotozhe Sema also won a bronze medal for shot put in the F57 category achieving his personal best of 14.65m.
The club throw event saw another double podium finish: Dharambir and Pranav Soorna won gold and silver respectively in the men’s club throw. Dharambir’s score of 34.92m also broke the Asian record.
BADMINTON
Badminton saw a haul of five medals.
medals respectively in the women’s singles SU5 category achieved another double podium finish. Murugesan, who had claimed three medals including a gold in the women’s singles at the 2022 Asian Para Games, was initially in the lead during the first set, only for China’s Qiu Xia Yang to quickly catch up. In contrast, Ramadass achieved a solid victory over Denmark’s Cathrine Rosengrine with a score of 21 – 8.
Suhas Yathiraj played against his longstanding rival, France’s Lucas Mazur in the SL4 category. This category is for players with limited movement on one side of their lower bodies. Mazur was ultimately victorious and took gold, whilst Yathiraj took home a silver medal. The game was tense, and for a period it seemed that Yathiraj might have been able to overcome the 7-0 lead that Mazur had in the first set, only to be ultimately defeated with a score of 13-21.
para-judo, thus becoming the first Indian to take home a medal for the sport. He was also the first judoka in the country to ever qualify for the Games.
Nitesh Kumar won gold after playing against Britain’s Daniel Bethel in the men’s singles’ SL3. The game initially seemed to be in Bethel’s favour after Kumar made several unforced errors, however, Kumar took over the net with enough time to gain a victory.
Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manisha Ramadass who won the silver and bronze
Up and coming badminton star Sumathy Nithya Sre won her first Paralympic medal in the SH6 category despite being only 19. She defeated Indonesia’s Rina Larlina, a former World Champion in the category. Sre won both games of the match in a mere 23 minutes.
JUDO
Kapil Parmar won a bronze medal for
ARCHERY
Harvinder Singh became the first Indian archer to win gold at the Paralympics games with his performance at the men’s individual recurve open.
A few days earlier, India saw success in the mixed team compound archery category as 17-year-old Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar won the bronze medal by the skin of their teeth, ultimately finishing with a score of 156-155. Whilst Kumar is a highly successful athlete in his own right, the 2024 Games have drawn attention to Devi in particular, due to her unique archery style in which she relies mainly on her feet and jaw to shoot, having been born with a condition called phocomelia which resulted in her arms failing to fully form.
With an unprecedented number of Indian athletes competing in this year’s Paralympics and over a wide range of sports including disciplines such as paracycling and blind judo, it’s no surprise that India is seeing more victories than ever.
TWO categories: Kids up to 7 years, and Kids 8-12 years. WIN book vouchers valued at $75 and $50 in both categories. PLUS: The winning entry will be designed into Indian Link’s Diwali cards for the year 2024. Colour in or paint the pattern presented here. Photocopy the pattern if you need to. Send in your work, along with your name, age, address and phone number, to:
Loving right now
What we’re obsessed with this month
READ
We could probably count on one hand how many books relating to the Indian-Australian experience have been released in the past five years. That’s why Growing up Indian in Australia, edited by Aarti Betigeri has been a breath of fresh air for those of us in the community. It is a wonderful smorgasbord of perspectives from numerous Indian-Australian writers from a wide range of backgrounds on how they’ve come to grips with their identity. But underpinning these contrasting experiences is the perpetual feeling of being torn between personal values and the expectations of the community.
LISTEN
It’s no secret that content creators are operating in an over-saturated market. So, coming across someone who is well and truly the “first” to try out an idea is rare. But that’s exactly what Mae Mariyan Thomas has achieved with her podcast Maed in India where she interviews Indian independent musicians from all over India and abroad. Each of the 300 episodes features interviews with artists or bands who also perform acoustic renditions of their original music. It has been well-recognised since its first release in 2015, with Thomas having just recently won the 2024 Cosmopolitan Blogger Awards.
WATCH
Whoever made the trailer for The Perfect Couple knew what they were doing when they inserted that one second clip of Ishaan Khatter in the shower, leaving fans wondering what his role would be in this murder mystery. The show has been compared to favourites such as The White Lotus for its compelling take on class consciousness, and on wealth disparities. On top of this, it has a thrilling plot which will have you guessing at every turn. Lauded for its outstanding cast, its amazing visuals and great storytelling, it’s definitely worth leaving a weekend free for a binge.
With Ganesh Chaturthi coming up, it’s the season for one of our favourite sweets: modak. It’s a sweet dumpling that typically has a filling that is made from grated coconut and jaggery. But its significance lies beyond it simply being a delicious dish. There are few other sweets which carry such religious significance as modak. It’s a dish that possibly dates back to 200 BCE and has been mentioned in texts such as the Ramayana. But its popularity is not constrained to India, and it has been found in countries such as Japan where it is referred to as kangidan.
COMPILED BY SRUTHI SAJEEV
TBY RITAM MITRA
o the casual (and innocently misguided) observer, Peru is synonymous with one site: the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. But Peru is so much more; its mosaic of precolonial and post-colonial history, natural landscapes, ancient archaeological ruins and rich cuisine make it a true bucket-list destination, especially the former Incan capital of Cusco.
Cusco town
We arrive in picturesque Cusco from Lima, taking a breathtaking flight over the sprawling, snow-capped Andes mountains, dotted with towns and villages nestled alongside so many winding waterways. The air feels immediately thinner; Cusco lies at 3,400m, making it one of the highest cities in the world.
We spend the first two days exploring the enchanting city, which seamlessly blends ancient Incan, Spanish colonial and modern architecture, reflecting the rich and complex history of the region. The food is – like in much
of Peru – phenomenal.
Walking around the city, including its ancient fortresses at Sacsayhuamán and Pisac, has an added bonus: it’s the best way to acclimatise ahead of the high-altitude hikes that lay ahead of us.
Humantay Lake
Our 4am start is quickly forgotten as we begin a stunning moonlit drive to the trailhead for Humantay Lake, known for its brilliant turquoise colour and nestled at the foot of a sacred mountain by the same name.
The hike to Humantay Lake is only 4 kilometres long, but an elevation of 300m from a starting point of 3,900m quickly takes its toll on the body. Soon, I can’t go more than 50 metres without taking a quick breather, even with a stash of coca leaves nestled in my cheek to combat the altitude.
We cast fleeting looks of resentment at those who surge ahead of us on horseback, but after around 90 minutes, we’re greeted by the sight of a majestic Humantay Mountain towering over the sparkling lake. The pain subsides as quickly as it came.
Rainbow Mountain
After Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain is perhaps Peru’s most famous site. The mountain takes its name from the sedimentary layers of clay, algae and
various minerals that give it a multicoloured hue.
Getting to the viewpoint requires a small hike, though visitors can go up on horseback and even by dirtbike. But we’re acclimatised from Humantay, so despite an increasingly steep walk to an elevation of 5,200 metres, we proceed largely untroubled to the top.
Rainbow Mountain can be an overcrowded letdown; but its stunning surrounds, including the Red Valley and the awe-inspiring Ausangate mountain, make it a worthy stop.
Machu Picchu
While the full 4-day Inca Trail is appealing, being typically time-strapped travellers, we opt for a two-day itinerary combining a train and a day hike.
After a scenic train ride, we begin a 6-hour hike over grasslands, through forests, and around waterfalls, punctuated by several other impressive ruins – a small handful of the estimated 300 major Incan sites in Peru alone. It’s arduous, but time passes as quickly as the landscapes change.
A final climb of around 200 “Monkey Stairs” takes us to the fabled Sun Gate, where we’re treated to our first glimpse of the mystic ancient Incan citadel, set in the shadow of the mountain that makes it truly
As
approach the ruins,
struck by the distinct dichotomy of being at one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in the world, but about which so much remains unknown.
As hikers, we’re allocated a private, cordoned-off terrace at the site, giving us the postcard-perfect views that so many covet. We spend the night in Aguas Calientes, an increasingly commercialised but charming town that houses all visitors to the region.
The next day, we arrive for a
special: Huayna Picchu.
we
I’m
Exploring Pisac
Pisac ruins
Rainbow Mountain
Ausangate Mountain near Rainbow Mountain
Captivating Cusco
Cusco is the nearest major city to Machu Pichu, but the former Incan capital is the gateway to many other incredible sites and experiences
breathtaking sunrise at a nearly empty Machu Picchu, with layers of fog serenely rolling in and out. We follow this with a hair-raising trip to the Huayna Picchu summit, for which an advance permit is required. We climb over 2,000 stairs, including the famed “Stairs of Death”, to catch a rare, bird’s eye view of Machu Picchu. By the time we return to the citadel, it’s absolutely teeming with visitors. While the site is incredibly well managed, we’re still glad to have arrived at sunrise; the swelling mid-morning crowd sees us quickly rushing for the exit.
TRAVEL NOTEBOOK
How to get there Fly to Santiago from most Australian cities, then you’ll need to fly to Lima and on to Cusco.
What to do Adventure-seekers in Cusco should consider the Salkantay trek and the full Inca Trail to Machu Pichu, while others can explore Cusco’s markets and town squares and catch the train to Machu Picchu.
When to go It’s best to visit during the dry season ofMay to September. Fog at Machu Picchu can be unpredictable, so make sure you spend the night at Aguas Calientes to give yourself two bites at the cherry.
The dollars and cents Return flights from Australia to South America are super expensive ($5,000) during peak periods, so it’s best to consider shoulder or off-peak seasons where flights can be less than half-price. Factor in another $3,000 - $4,000 for a comfortable 2-3 weeks catching all of Peru’s highlights.
Humantay Lake and mountain
Machu Pichu with Huyana Pichu in background
cineTALK
There are crime thrillers, action films, glamorous sitcoms, and some history on NEERU SALUJA’s watchlist this September
CALL ME BAE (Prime Video)
KJo launches his favourite muse Ananya Pandey, a spoilt heiress brought up in much luxury and privilege. Hey, but doesn’t this sound like a chapter from her real life? Wait, the twist comes when she gets disowned by her family and ends up in Mumbai to start a new life for herself. Let’s see if she really has to struggle in this series as she debuts as ‘Bae’.
Releasing 6 Sept
SECTOR 36 (Netflix)
After an overwhelming response at the premiere at IFFM, this Vikrant Massey film will be hitting our screens soon. Based on true events, the film is about a serial killer who kidnaps children from the slums. Vikrant has carved a niche by choosing engaging scripts and this film looks like another winner where he will be showcasing his diverse acting skills. Releasing 13 Sept
THE
BUCKINGHAM MURDERS (In cinemas)
Hansal Mehta’s film finally gets a release date. Kareena Kapoor Khan portrays Jasmeet Bhamra, a British-Indian detective grappling with grief after the loss of her child. Bhamra is then assigned a complex case of a murdered child in Buckinghamshire. This film also stars IndoAustralian actor Sanjeev Mehra, chef Ranveer Brar and many British actors.
Releasing 13 Sept
BERLIN (ZEE5 Global)
This film has been achieving critical acclaim on the international film festival circuit. Set against the backdrop of 1990s New Delhi, a deaf-mute young man (Ishwaq Singh) is accused and arrested for being a spy. Aparshakti Khurana will be seen as a language expert alongside Rahul Bose as an intelligence officer. Seems engrossing but let’s wait for the verdict from the audience.
Releasing 13 Sept
THE PERFECT COUPLE (Netflix)
Ishaan Khatter makes his Hollywood debut in Netflix’s upcoming murder mystery series starring Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber. If his trailer appearance is anything to go by (shower scene), there’s plenty of him to see, even if, who knows, all he gets is a bit role here.
Releasing 5 Sept
ADBHUT (Sony Max)
Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Diana Penty star in this supernatural horror film about a detective investigating a paranormal case involving a haunted couple. If you're craving spine-chilling thrills, it's the horror film for this month that will have you hiding behind your popcorn bucket. Ready to be scared senseless?
Releasing 15 Sept
GOAT (In cinemas)
The Greatest of all the Time (GOAT) is a Tamil science action thriller inspired by the 2004 Moscow Metro bombing, where a suicide bomber detonated in a crowded subway, killing dozens.
Releasing 5 Sept
ARDAAS
SARBAT DE BHALE DI (In cinemas)
Gippy Grewal acts and directs this Punjabi film where the protagonist starts a pilgrimage by bus for Sri Hazur Sahib. The Ardaas (prayer) of their means become the Ardaas of everyone. This film also features Gurpreet Ghuggi, Jasmin Bhasin and Prince Kanwaljit Singh.
Releasing 13 Sept
SUCHA SORMA (In cinemas)
This Punjabi film is based on the life of the folk legend Sucha Singh (played by Babbu Mann) and the turn of events in his life which turned him into a dacoit.
Releasing 20 Sept
EMERGENCY (In cinemas)
Controversial queen Kangana Ranaut’s new film may finally see daylight this month, after being stalled for various reasons. Kangana directs, produces and plays the lead role as the former Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi. Based on the Emergency period in 1975, the film also stars Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman and Shreyas Talpade in pivotal roles.
Releasing 6 Sept
YUDHRA
(In cinemas)
In this action-packed thriller, Siddhant Chaturvedi is a young man with anger issues who is thrust into a mission to eliminate a drug lord. His lady love is played by actress Malavika Mohanan - it’s not her debut as projected, she played the lead role in Majid Majidi’s drama film Beyond the Clouds.
Releasing 20 Sept
BINNY AND FAMILY (In cinemas)
It's another nepo-kid! Well, nepo-niece? Binny and Family introduces Anjini Dhawan in Bollywood. It is a family comedy depicting the chaos that ensues when a rebellious NRI teenager’s life is turned upside down by her grandparents’ visit. Sounds like a movie for every kid to watch with their families.
Releasing 20 Sept
SEPTEMBER 2024 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.
TAURUS
TAROT
GEMINI
Familiarity leads to contempt so set boundaries if there is disrespect in any relationship. Watch out for substance abuse of any kind as boredom might lead you to it. A recent break-up still has you pining for your ex. The self-employed will see profits and professionals could get a job offer. If facing health issues, you might have to give up on some work, but your health gets better so avoid feeling low. Seek help from friends who are there for you.
The bull draws the card for the crab so expect stubborn moodiness. Singles could meet someone, possibly a Cancerian. Getting into a relationship could change the outlook for some. If seeking to be self-employed, chances are you will find a way to do so. Be clear about finances before you start a business. Avoid binge eating due to mood swings. Ask for what you want in a business deal, and something you need will come to you.
You will indulge in self-improvement and introspection to deal with what happens around you. Be careful with paperwork. New beginnings on some front will bring much happiness. Avoid too much alcohol or medication. Payments due to you will come through. Some of you may inherit a much-loved item. A new sense of motivation and goal-oriented approach is on the anvil. Be clear about what you want on every level – work, relationships, self. Don’t let others dissuade you from trying out new ideas.
Success in every sphere is foretold this month. Someone younger will try and woo you if you are single. Good news at work can be expected. Some of you may even choose a role that shines the limelight on you. A situation you feel trapped in could cause further irritation. Take a much-needed break. A payment or settlement could be on the anvil. Help others to gain good karma. A positive feeling all around will follow you.
You pick the card for Aries, making you more short-tempered than usual. An action-packed month - chores, financial matters and home improvement keep you busy. A decision taken, a new contract or job will be life-changing. Singles could get a marriage proposal. Watch out for low backache or headaches due to stress. New and repeat business deals bring in the moolah. Someone will go out of their way to help you in any way you need. New ventures bring good results.
The card drawn indicates things speeding up shortly. If you’ve broken up recently, try moving to a different suburb to feel better. Multiple short trips that need to be undertaken will yield good results. At work, the environment becomes supportive, or you could get a promotion. Singles could receive a proposal. This card also stands for healing, so if recovering from a health issue or a trauma, things are looking up. Finances improve and there is an overall feeling of well-being.
Your strength comes forth as you are pushed against a wall in a situation. In a relationship you seek clarity before you take a decision. For the self-employed, a new contract is in the offing. Avoid eating unfamiliar food and reduce your workload. Money owed to you is coming. Don’t let anything take your focus away from your goals. Change yourself and your responses instead of trying to change the circumstances for best results. All negotiations regarding finances will be successful.
Be careful who you trust this month, especially with your secrets. Office politics too could cause stress. An old friend or lover could show up in your life again. Singles will not make compromises just to be in a relationship. Take a break if aches and pains are regular. Beware of mind games people play. Any decisions you make this month have to be made with the mind and not the heart. Unexpected financial gains are on the anvil.
A month of abundance touched with practicality, given you draw the card for Capricorn. Those in a relationship will have mature responses to any challenges, whether things work out or not. An event will lift your mood if you are at a low with work. Throat problems indicate suppression of what needs to be expressed. If money has been slow coming in, things will look up soon. Sometimes, no action is the best way to resolve a problem.
Team work will be the theme for September. An ex could make a comeback. An upcoming trip could be profitable in multiple ways. If self-employed, irritants at work need to be avoided. Avoid stress as it could lead to aches and pains. Income will be better than expected. Your best success comes from work that involves interacting with others, maybe even those younger than you. Do what you can and don’t worry about the expectations of others. Trust the universe.
Whether you are waiting for something to happen – a reunion, a reconciliation or resolved matters – there is some more time before it does take place. If in love, don’t expect a commitment till the other party is clear about what they want. Influential people could help you out. Your own health or that of another could cause concern. Money will come through work you enjoy, and a financial problem will be resolved satisfactorily. Tell the universe what you need and then let it go.
You draw the card for Cancer, making you moodier than usual. If facing a dilemma, know that destiny is guiding you. It depends on whether your soul needs to grow more or still has lessons to learn here. The here in question could be a job, a relationship, or personal growth. Confront those who owe you money to make a full recovery of debts. Slow down or ill health will force you to do so. Things will work out better than you expect.
DEAR AUNTYJI
I am a 17-year-old girl attending high school and I am having trouble with coordinating what I should do next as a smart decision. I met my former boyfriend at a family friend's and we instantly fell in love. Nine months into our relationship and we hardly talk or see each other because his father is extremely strict about dating, sets his bedtime schedule (he is turning 20 next year) and tells me that I am a complete distraction to him despite me following his every word. I still cannot understand why even after I followed his father's verdict, I still got the bad treatment - he said I am the reason he failed every single university exam when he went to Europe for a month during his first semester, and threatened to tell my parents if I ever spoke to his son again. We have been broken up for two months now but despite that my mum and I are blocked on all platforms of communication (with him and his family). Is this normal for Indian parents and boys to do? Should I remain quiet through all of this despite him not speaking up, telling the truth, or for allowing his father to degrade me? Please help me like your little bachcha in need.
Boyfriend with daddy issues
MY DEAR LITTLE BACHCHI,
Thank you so much for writing to me and asking me your lifealtering question. Listen up, my little gulabo, my chameli, I have good advice for you.
Now I am very old, but when I was much much younger, my dearest Naniji would look at me lovingly when I told her about my boy woes, cup my face in her hands and say this.
“My little kishmish, my sweet little pari. Nothing good ever
comes from chasing a man and trying to get him to give you something he does not want to give. Stop chasing him. You deserve better.”
And so my pyari si pari, don’t become a 12-day-old jalebi left at the back of the cupboard halfeaten by cockroaches and rats. You deserve better treatment than this. Why are you chasing a boy who is controlled by his father? Why do you want a boy who does not show you respect?
ASK AUNTYJI
Do you have a question for Auntyji? Email it to info@indianlink.com.au
What for you wasting your time with a boy who won’t even bother communicating with you? You deserve someone who will treat you well, who will stand up for you, and who will communicate with love and affection. This boy is not right for you. The only reason he is in your life is to teach you how to respect yourself. So, respect yourself by cutting off ties with him and moving on. The right companion for you is in your future.
If you don’t start respecting yourself, then in your future, no one will respect you. You might even go through a lot of pain. So be smart, learn this lesson early in life. Don’t be like my friend Pushpa bahen, who allowed her husband to disrespect her all her life and she was left with nothing when he abandoned her at age 45 for a much younger woman.
Do you Seek Wisdom or Information?
—Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji
Reading scriptures or listening to the Masters makes us feel content. But Pujya Gurudevshri explains the limitation of words and inspires us to transcend words to realise the Self
We have a great liking for words and faith in them too. We value words, memory, scriptures more than the truth, the real Self. Why is so much importance given to words? Words have sweetness, melody, and fascination. Words have logic that satisfies the intellect that at least something is understood!
Written Words
An intellect, holding on to words, wants to check whether what Sadguru speaks is written in the scriptures or not. They become authentic and authoritative only when they are written! Even if what is spoken is the truth, you will still have doubts because it’s not penned down; and you believe all that is written as right.
Mullaji’s car hit a truck. He was rushed to the hospital. The car was badly damaged but fortunately, Mullaji was not seriously injured. The doctor assured Mullaji that he was fine and can go home in a day. Next morning, the doctor told Mullaji, ‘You cannot leave today. I just read about your accident in the newspaper. It was a really bad one, and I feel we need to re-evaluate you before we let you go.’ What was evidently visible was ignored, and words of the newspaper became more credible!
The Purpose of Words
Only when the illusory hope of truth from words reduces, we can move towards truth. It is not that there is no relation between truth and words. But truth is related more with inner silence and less with words. Truth is realised not by words but in the absence of words or thoughts.
Saints say that the only purpose of words is to glorify the state of no-mind. Words should increase your interest, importance and pull for the no-mind state. Instead, if they hinder the inner silence, they become a block.
The objective of the authors of scriptures was to help you become enthusiastic about truth, wisdom, no-mind state, and not that you learn them by heart and feel content. Therefore, do not get stuck in words. Move forward in search of inner silence. Words are only pointers. Take their help to go beyond them. Take a leap from words to silence. Transcend the mind. And for that, forgetting words alone is the means.
Study of scriptures does not bring knowledge; only memory gets trained, and some learning transpires. But as said earlier, learning and knowing are not the same. We are able to learn and speak a lot about the Self, we are able to answer and explain, but just think, what is the difference between this and parroting.
From Words to Experience
No efforts are made to experience the truth. All efforts go towards understanding
words and feeling content with that. This satisfaction is an illusion. We are not interested in realising the truth. We just wish that people appreciate how much we know about truth! If we were really interested in truth, then mere words would not satisfy us.
The Enlightened Ones recommend the study of scriptures so we understand the worthlessness of words, realise our ignorance, and our thirst for inner silence increases; that alone seems meaningful. The purpose of scriptures is to increase our thirst and not satisfy our quest. Unsatisfied with words, if it brings on thirst for inner silence, inspiration and yearning, then they are worthwhile!
The Wise Ones say that you want to experience the truth but you are stuck in the prison of words. Only when the walls of information and memories break, the sun of realisation of the Self shall dawn. Truth is ready to manifest, but you have to make room for it within. Set aside words, memories, and thoughts and see - truth will reveal itself in that empty space. When God descends, pure Self shall appear, then you will not behold the Self; you will be one with it. You will be that.
By Seeing, not by Thinking
Don’t just stop at thinking about what is truth and how it is because such reflection is blind. It is like a blind imagining about light! Whatever he imagines will be false. Let alone light, he cannot imagine about darkness without the eyes. Then what should he do? He must treat his eyes. Not reflection, but treatment is helpful and meaningful.
What surprises is that those who talk on light, they only know about light; they have no first-hand experience of light. Had they known light, they would certainly have understood the worthlessness of talks and their energy would have been focused on treatment. Once the eyes are cured, the experience of light happens by itself. Light is ever present, only vision is needed. The path of experiencing light is not of thinking about it but of seeing it. Seeing is religion, a solution. So, are you interested in realising light or knowing about light? Are you a seeker of wisdom or information?
Collection and Capacity
The two directions are absolutely opposite. Wisdom takes us towards the end of ego, and information towards strengthening it. One makes us simple, the other makes us complicated. Thoughts are also accumulations. All collections, all accumulations feed the ego. They nourish the expectations and greed of the ego.
Dry intellectualists collect thoughts. Thought is neither the Self nor does it arise from the Self. It is a veil. The blind can be given
information about light from outside, but the experience of seeing must arise from within. Reading, listening, thinking, imagining, etc. about light is collection, whereas treating the sight, getting rid of blindness is capacity. Collection is from outside, capacity is from within. Collection creates delusion of capacity, and when it increases, the ego gets nourished. Ego is not capacity, it is delusion of capacity. It is powerlessness alone. Even a ray of truth can make it vanish.
Scholarliness and Wisdom
There is a difference between scholarliness and wisdom. Mere scholarliness is delusion; it is knowing without really knowing. Borrowed knowledge of someone’s experience creates a delusion that ‘I know the truth’ and veils right discrimination. It satisfies the quest without inner experience and deprives us of real wisdom. Delusion is a greater hindrance than ignorance.
There is a difference between knowing the scriptures and realising the Self. In the world, it is enough to know the scriptures. But this
is not even a beginning in the direction of Self-realisation.
Philosophy and Spiritual Practice Therefore treatment - spiritual practice - is important. By this, the eye of wisdom opens. When inner vision is attained by spiritual practice, thoughts become irrelevant. Thought is the sign of ignorance and not wisdom. Inner vision occurs in the state of no-thought.
Philosophy cannot give inner spiritual vision. Philosophy is a mere intellectual storage, a part of memory. It does not transform into wisdom. Philosophy cannot transform hearts. Like clothes change the outside, and the inside remains the same, the veil of thoughts changes but the delusion of the Self remains the same. To remove delusion of the Self and create an inner revolution, you will need to work in a different direction – the direction of spiritual practice, not of philosophical words and thoughts, the direction of opening the eyes to the truth and not thinking about truth.
