Indian News Queensland - February 2020 - Vol 3 Issue 5

Connecting Indian community Email: info@indiannewsqld.com.au Web: www.indiannewsqld.com.au Phone: 1300 859 066

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FEBRUARY 2020 Vol 3 Issue 5

Republic Day celebrated in India and Australia

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro (left), the chief guest, received a warm welcome from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind at India's 71st Republic Day celebrations at Rajpath, New Delhi

Hon. Consul Mrs Archana Singh (left) and Prof Sarva Daman Singh hoisting the Indian flag in Brisbane

PAGE 9 OAM AWARDEES

PAGE 19 PONGAL CELEBRATIONS www.indiannewsqld.com.au

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Indian News Queensland | PUBLISHER'S NOTE

FOR ENQUIRES Contact: Dr. Ram Mohan info@indiannewsqld.com.au Phone: 1 300 859 066 EDITORS Harpreet Bhagrath Dr Ram Mohan Dr Venkat Pulla EDITORIAL SUPPORT, WEBSITE DESIGN & MANAGEMENT Cosmos Media www.cosmosmedia.info Joyce Thomas WRITERS Devashish Chakraborty Rabindra Mukherji Deepika Banerjee PHOTOGRAPHERS Kartik Singh Redsun Srikanth SRK Photography DESIGNER DigiShout Marcom Solutions Pvt Ltd www.digishout.com Senthilkumar Umapathy PUBLISHING & DISTRIBUTION Star Promotions ADDRESS Indian News Queensland Unit 49, 391, WICKHAM TERRACE, Ground Floor, Spring Hill, Brisbane, QLD – 4000 Web: www.indiannewsqld.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/Indian-NewsQueensland

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Dear Readers, President Ram Nath Kovind, in his address to the nation on the Republic Day eve, urged the Indian youth to practice non-violence when fighting for a cause and exhorted them to "hold fast to constitutional methods" of achieving the social change they want. His peace and non-violence message has come in the backdrop of protests happening against the new citizenship law, and I can only hope, as President Kovind does, that peace prevails vis-a-vis the CAA. Besides praising the Indian armed forces and acknowledging the achievement of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), President Kovind also talked about engaging the global community to build a secure and prosperous future for not only Indians but the entire humanity.

Even though I have already done so in person, I want to again congratulate, on behalf of our production team, both the Indian-origin OAM awardees from Brisbane. Prof Sarva Daman Singh and Mr Umesh Chandra have brought accolades for the community, and inside we have covered the current list of awardees from within the Indian community. Another cheery recollection from January has been the Pongal celebrations organised by various community organisations, with the biggest one being the joint effort by Queensland Tamil Mandram and Thai Tamil School in Springfield. Most Pongal celebrations have been reported inside.

On a sad and serious note, the coronavirus from the Chinese city of Wuhan has so far claimed more than 300 lives and infected around 14,500 people. It is now posing a considerable risk to other nations, with WHO having declared it a global health emergency. Global air travel to and from China has already been hit hard as many nations, including Australia, have walled off China by imposing travel restrictions.

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71st Republic Day celebrated in India and Australia

I

t was tricolour balloons, 22 tableaux projecting India's rich diversity, the armed forces showcasing their might and 'garba' on Rajpath, as India celebrated 71 years as a republic on January 26.

Sixteen state tableaux and six from different ministries and departments were displayed on Rajpath. While, Jammu & Kashmir showcased its 'Back to Village' programme, the Odisha tableau showcased the Rukuna Ratha Yatra of Lord Lingaraja.

Kullu's Dussehra festival was proudly projected by the Himachal Pradesh tableau. CPWD Horticulture tableau's theme was 'Kashmir se Kanyakumari'.

The event also witnessed India showcasing its military prowess.

The Air Defence Tactical Control Radar was displayed at the parade as was Boeing P8I Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft and the Kolkata Class Destroyer and the Kalvari Class submarine by the Indian Navy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves at the public during the 71st Republic Day parade, at Rajpath in New Delhi on Jan 26, 2020

President Ram Nath Kovind takes National Salute at Rajpath

Indian Army's Captain Tanya Shergill leading the 71st Republic Day parade

T90 Bheeshma Main Battle Tanks roll down the Rajpath

Advanced Light Helicopters were flown in 'Diamond' formation over Rajpath as this year's Republic Day chief guest, Brazilian President Jair Messias Bolsonaro, watched with awe.

The T-90 Bhishma battle tanks of the Indian Army proudly rolled down the Rajpath, commanded

by Captain Sunny Chahar of 86 Armoured Regiment.

After the parade was over, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sporting a saffron turban, walked on the Rajpath waving at people who were there to witness the gala event. Earlier, President Ram Nath Kovind received the national salute at Rajpath.

Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, a school which has been continuously participating in the Republic Day parade for 56 years now, was also there on the Rajpath. When the girls crossed the Rajpath playing their instruments, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stood up to applaud them.

Prime Minister Modi also paid rich tributes to the martyred soldiers by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, before the parade began.

He was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat along with the three service chiefs - Army Chief General M.M. Naravane, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh and Air Chief Marshal R.K.S. Bhadauria.

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Anti-Satellite Weapons (ASAT) Mission Shakti rolls down the Rajpath

Artistes perform during the Beating Retreat ceremony at 71st Republic Day celebrations at the India-Pakistan border post at Attari, about 35 kms from Amritsar on Jan 26 (Photo IANS)

IAF jets fly past Rajpath during the 71st Republic Day parade

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Indian News Queensland | LOCAL AND NATIONAL

FICQ celebrates India-Australia Day

F

ederation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) organised a cultural event on the occasion of India's Republic Day as well as Australia Day on Jan 26 at SunPac Brisbane Cultural Centre.

FICQ representatives also attended the flag-hoisting at the Honorary Consular office at Brisbane on the occasion of the Indian Republic Day celebration in the morning.

Australian Citizenship Ceremony was held in the afternoon as part of the Australia Day. The evening again saw the joint India-Australia Day celebrations organised by the FICQ at Sunpac auditorium. The guests were also treated to a sumptuous Indian dinner.

The evening event at Sunpac was well attended by government officials, representatives of all the three governments, Brisbane city councillors, Queensland parliamentarians and senators representing the federal government.

The program was coordinated by cultural coordinator Mrs Preethi Suraj. The event showcased Indian

culture and also a unique indigenous presentation.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, Senator Paul Scarr, Peter Russo MP, FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan, Honorary Consul (India) Mrs Archana Singh, Prof Sarva Daman Singh and Mr Umesh Chandra, recipients of OAM for 2020, Brisbane city councillors Steven Huang, Angela Owen, and Kim Marx were present as well.

OAM awardees were felicitated by presentation of Indian shawls by FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan.

Dr Prasad Yarlagadda, on behalf of advisors and patrons of FICQ, also felicitated the awardees and praised the FICQ for organising the event.

As always, listening to the Acknowledgement of Country presented by Aunty Peggy Tidyman was refreshing, and for the first time, she also introduced a contemporary performer who has preserved the traditional nuances of indigenous culture while, at the same time, keeping an engagement with modernity of the indigenous younger generation. The galaxy of speakers included FICQ President

Dr Ram Mohan, who gave his welcome speech, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, Peter Russo MP, representative to the Premier of Queensland Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, Mrs Archana Singh, on behalf of the High Commissioner of India in Australia, Mr A Gitesh Sarma, Senator Paul Martin Scar, and the city councillors.

The cultural program consisting of a classical dance performance

by Nadananjali School of Dance; contemporary indigenous dance performance by Ms Taleatha Wright-Morgan; a classical medley of Indian ragas on Sitar by Sudha Manian and her group consisting of Ravikesh Singh, Shivani Saravanan, Dominic Bell and Sanjana Sharma; semi-classical dance by Nalini Here and Group; and finally the Indian fusion dance performance by Dance Galatta. The evening ended with the vote of thanks by Dr Venkat Pulla.

The event was supported by Brisbane City Council as part of its efforts towards promoting multiculturalism in Brisbane.

By Dr Venkat Pulla

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner (left) and Dr Ram Mohan (right) during the shawl ceremony to honour the two Indian-origin OAM awardees -- Mr Umesh Chandra (2nd left) and Prof Sarva Daman Singh

(From L-R) Senator Paul Scarr, Sudha Manian, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

(From L-R) Preetham Krishna, Shyam Das, Surendra Prasad, Sushila Prasad, Prakruthi Gururaj, and Parminder Singh

Mr Umesh Chandra speaking during the shawl ceremony, as Dr Ram Mohan, Prof Sarva Daman Singh and Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner look on

(From right)) Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, Prof Sarva Daman Singh, Mr Umesh Chandra, Senator Paul Scarr and Peter Russo MP

Chief guests with the FICQ members during the lighting of the lamp ceremony

Sudha Manian and her team performing on stage

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Indian classical dance performance

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Dinner was served at the start of the event, soon after the welcoming ceremony

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Indian News Queensland | LOCAL AND NATIONAL

FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan during his speech

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner speaking on the occasion

Representatives of various Indian communities on stage

Classical musician Sudha Manian flanked by Mahadevan Shankar (left) and FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan (right)

Louise Moeller (left) in a Mysore Silk Shawl, Prakruthi Mysore Gururaj and Michelle Sofia Poslla (right) decked up in Indian ethnic attire

Chief guests and other dignitaries seated on the front rows

GOPIO Gold Coast celebrates R-Day with HE Gitesh Sarma

G

OPIO Gold Coast celebrated the 71st Indian Republic Day on 26th January. Besides the Indian High Commissioner HE Gitesh Sarma, who was the chief guest, and Pushpinder Oberoi, president of GOPIO Gold Coast, Angie Bell MP, Cr. Mayor Tom Tate, Umesh Chandra OAM, Usha Chandra, Prof Sarva Daman Singh OAM, Hon Consul Archana Singh, Mr J P Langbroek, MP Mr Ray Stevens attended the event, along with other dignitaries.

During his visit to Gold Coast, HE Gitesh Sarma was well attended to by the city's Indian community and taken to the local gurudwara to offer obeisance.

Also present at the event were representatives from FICQ, GOPIO Qld, AIBC and local businesses.

High Commissioner HE Gitesh Sarma (2nd left) on his visit to the local gurudwara to offer obeisance

Pushpinder Oberoi, President GOPIO Gold Coast, addressing the attendees

High Commissioner HE Gitesh Sarma on stage with other dignitaries

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Indian News Queensland | LOCAL AND NATIONAL

Indian flag hoisted at Consulate of India in Brisbane

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o commemorate the Republic Day of India, Honorary Consul of India Mrs. Archana Singh and Prof Sarva Daman Singh hoisted the Indian flag in Brisbane on January 26 morning.

The celebrations were attended by many Queenslanders of Indian origin, including FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan. The event concluded with refreshments amid social networking.

Professor Sarva Daman Singh also received the Order Of Australia Award (OAM) 2020 for service to tertiary education and to the community.

Republic Day is the date when the constitution of India was ratified.

The constitution was adopted by the Indian Constituent Assembly on 26 November 1949 and came into effect on 26 January 1950 with a democratic government system, completing the country’s transition towards becoming an independent republic. 26 January was chosen as the Republic Day because it was on this day in 1930 when Declaration of Indian Independence (Purna Swaraj) was proclaimed by the Indian National Congress as opposed to the dominion status offered by the British regime.

Celebrations at India House in Canberra

H

igh Commission of India, Canberra, celebrated the 71st Republic Day of India at the India House, where High Commissioner Mr. A Gitesh Sarma hoisted the India flag amid a rendition of the national anthem.

Hon. Consul Mrs Archana Singh (left) and Prof Sarva Daman Singh hoisting the Indian flag at the Consulate General office in Brisbane

Professor Sarva Daman Singh speaking on the occasion

Indian community gathered at the Consulate of India, Brisbane

Indian community gathered at the India House to mark the day, and Dr. Vinay Prabhakar Sahasrabuddhe, President, ICCR, and Member of Parliament of India representing the state of Maharashtra in the Rajya Sabha, graced the auspicious event with his presence.

High Commissioner Mr A Gitesh Sarma hoisting the India flag

Indian community in Canberra listening as the High Commissioner speaks

BMA donates for bushfire relief on India-Australia Day

B

risbane Malayalee Association organised a community celebration on the India-Australia Day on January 26. Apart from the cultural performances on the occasion, Cr Fiona Hammond, Councilor of Marchant Ward, Brisbane City Council, released the BMA calendar.

Also, BMA handed over $2000 for

the Bushfire Relief Fund to Mr. Luke Howarth, Federal MP, Petire Electorate and $1000 for the Drought Relief Fund to Mr Bart Mellish, Member of Parliament QLD, Aspley Electorate.

BMA members handing over $2000 cheque towards Bushfire Relief Fund to Mr. Luke Howarth, Federal MP, Petire Electorate

BMA members handing over $1000 cheque towards BMA members handing over $2000 cheque towards Bushfire Cr Fiona Hammond (middle), Councilor of Marchant Ward, Drought Relief Fund to Mr Bart Mellish (left), Relief Fund to Mr. Luke Howarth (left), Federal MP, Brisbane City Council, releasing the BMA calendar Member of Parliament QLD, Aspley Electorate Petire Electorate

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Indian News Queensland | ADVERT

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Indian News Queensland | LOCAL AND NATIONAL

Rotary Club of Brisbane distributes food and bottled water

R

otary Club of Brisbane organised the water and food distribution drive towards the bushfire and drought relief last month.

The bottled water and freshly cooked meals were distributed at Applethorpe. Also water and dignity packs were delivered at Stanthorpe Anglican Church.

Prayer assemblies and outpouring of support at BAPS Swaminarayan temples across Australia

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he BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha held prayer assemblies at its centres around Australia praying for a rapid end to the deadly bushfires and recovery of the communities impacted by this tragedy.

Juhi Chawla's son donates 300 pounds from pocket money for bushfire aid

In India, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, spiritual leader of the BAPS, also offered his prayers and turned the rosary for all victims and their families. He prayed for rains in Australia to help control the fires and provide respite for those impacted by and fighting the fires.

Furthermore, the BAPS community in Australia has assisted the relief efforts by distributing food for volunteer firefighters through the disaster management agencies.

BAPS volunteers have served more than 1,000 hot meals to frontline volunteers fighting the fire and are further mobilising support across Australia.

Besides, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha will also contribute over $27,000 through its bushfire appeals to aid in the relief and support efforts for the communities and families affected. All BAPS centres around the country will continue

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Juhi Chawla says her son has sent 300 pounds from his pocket money to the Australian fire relief fund

1000 food cans being donated to the Logan House Fire Support Network to collect and accept donations for further support in the coming weeks and months.

BAPS Swaminarayan Temple, Kingston, donated 1000 food cans

to the Logan House Fire Support Network on 22 December to support the fire-affected families and staff.

A

ctress Juhi Chawla's son Arjun is doing his bit to help those affected by Australia bushfires. The actress says her son has sent 300 pounds from his pocket money to the Australian fire relief fund.

Juhi said: "I recall he had mentioned to me that 500 million animals have been killed in the Australian bushfires and he asked me 'what are you doing about it?' I said I'm

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helping plant trees in our country in the Cauvery Calling project."

"That was it. A day later he said 'I've sent 300 pounds from my pocket money. I hope it goes to the right place'. I am really happy and grateful to God. I feel so good knowing his heart is in the right place," she added.

Arjun is currently studying in a boarding school in the UK. FEBRUARY 2020

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Indian News Queensland | LOCAL AND NATIONAL

Indian-origin OAM awardees bring laurels to the community This Australia Day, a few distinguished Indian-origin honourees made the final list of the prestigious Order of Australia recipients who have been chosen for their invaluable contributions to the Australian community The first of the two major annual Australian awardees lists for the esteemed Order of Australia awards, coinciding with Australia Day, which falls on 26 January, was announced. These awards are conferred on Australian citizens who have done commendable work for the welfare of the multicultural Australian community.

This year 549 exemplary Australian citizens were chosen to be bestowed with this honour. Although there are many celebrity nominations, more than 40 percent of the recipients are integral members of the local community of which a select few are Indians by birth. On this 26 January, as India celebrates its 71st Republic Day, these humanitarian Indian-Australians have indeed made the historically significant event a much prouder one.

Prof. Sarva Daman Singh meticulous and dedicated work in tertiary education A distinguished resident of Brisbane, Prof. Sarva Daman Singh has played an instrumental role in fostering awareness about Asia in general and India in particular, especially since there has been a downgradation of Indian studies at top Australian universities in recent times.

A double doctoral from the University of London and the University of Queensland, Dr Singh moved to Australia in 1975 after serving in several senior capacities at numerous universities across Northern India. The educationist is also credited for authoring books on diverse topics related to ancient Indian warfare and polyandry in ancient India. He has also penned a biography on Mahatma Gandhi in which he has offered his own insights on Gandhi Ji. For the past two decades he has been the director of the Institute of Asian Studies in Brisbane. His genuine devotion and drive to spread awareness about Indian studies deserves accolades, and this makes him one of the most deserving recipients of the OAM. Umesh Chandra - significant contribution to the multicultural community of Queensland Another Indian-origin Australian from Brisbane who has been honoured with the OAM is the 66-year-old Umesh Chandra, publisher of the Brisbane Indian Times. He and his wife, Usha Chandra, were also the joint awardees of Brisbane City Council’s Citizen of the Year award last year.

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Mr Chandra migrated to Australia in 1987 and became one of the founding members of Hindu Society of Queensland in 1991.

Since then, he has worked selflessly for communal harmony and is trying to tackle many other social issues in the society. Due to his humble attitude and sense of service to the community, he was made the liaison officer to safeguard the interests of Indian students who were encountering the threats of brutal attacks in the country during 2008 and 2009.

A savior in the truest sense of the word, Mr Chandra deserves to be acknowledged with this prestigious honour, especially when he believes so strongly in multiculturalism.

Besides being the president of Queensland Multicultural Council, he is also the multicultural advisor to the Lord Mayor and the Police Commissioner.

On being congratulated on his OAM achievement, Mr Chandra thanked all the community organisations, including FICQ, for providing him the platform for the community service. As to the inspiration behind his serviceto-the-community attitude, Mr Chandra says, "I attribute it to my parents who instilled in me the essence of community work."

Inderjit (Indy) Singh - dispelling darkness through eye care program Founder of the charitable organisation Vision Beyond Aus, Inderjit (Indy) Singh has, literally, retrieved many visually impaired individuals, belonging to the deprived sections of society, from the abyss of darkness through his eye care program, which he launched in 2011.

Having been acquainted with the idea by two of his friends, Dr. Jay Chandra and Dr. Shailja Chandra, philanthropists spearheading eye care programs among the poverty-stricken in different parts of the world, the Sydney-based businessman decided to launch this initiative on a larger scale. So far, the foundation has been doing charity work in various cities across India, Nepal, Myanmar and Cambodia, and there are plans to take this to Ethiopia next. Indy was chosen for the Australia Day program for his noteworthy charitable works in the field of eye care.

Promilla Gupta - contribution to the Indian and multicultural Australian communities Pammi Gupta, as she is hailed among her peers and friends, the erstwhile President of the Indian Australian Association in Adelaide (2007-2009), is a popular social figure in Adelaide and Newcastle.

Umesh Chandra

Professor Sarva Daman Singh (Courtesy Griffith University)

Promilla Gupta Facebook)

(Courtesy

Inderjit Singh

Dr Sadanand Limaye (Courtesy FB)

Dr Gunvantrai Premji Naker

A community service devout, she is renowned for her event management skills as well as for her unique ability to engender cooperation among community members.

For about 35 years, she has channelised her passion for cooking in various ways -- running a restaurant, authoring cookery books, cooking for philanthropic drives and providing healthy and delicious food for new migrants and foreign students. A former resident of Whyalla, where she arrived in 1983 with her husband Satish Gupta, she also conducted cookery classes at the local TAFE college.

She has also been instrumental in raising funds to the amount of $20,000 for the Spastic Centres of South Australia.

Pammi Aunty, as she is affectionately addressed among her young peers, has been chosen for this prestigious award for selfless social work for the well-being of the diverse ethnicities in the Australian community.

Dr Sadanand Limaye - dedicated service in the field of medicine An integral part of Adelaide’s Indian community since 1974, Dr Sadanand Limaye, a cardiologist, has been well-known for his humanitarian works. He began his professional career at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide in 1979 but in 1984, he commenced his own practice, which is running

successfully even presently.

Although he retired from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital many years ago, he continued to work voluntarily and even conducted classes for medical students and only about a year and a half ago did he actually retire at the age of 74.

He also holds the honour of being the first recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award

by South Australian Indian Medical Association in 2010. Post retirement, Dr. Limaye continues to do community work while studying the essence of Hindu philosophy.

The physician, whose name ‘Sadanand’ means ‘forever happy’, epitomises his name and has even spread this happiness among those whose life he has touched.

Dr Gunvantrai Premji - dedicated service in the field of medicine Another deserving physician is Sydney-based Dr Gunvantrai Premji, or Gunu Naker, as he is popularly known. Currently serving in Eastbrooke Medical Centres, Carlton, NSW, he is known for his perseverance and dedication to providing the optimum care to his patients in his 50-year-old career.

He also completed a fellowship in acupuncture, having realised the risks of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs. He has endeared himself to Sydney’s Indian community for his voluntary work in association with several charitable organisations such as RAIN (Resourceful Australian Indian Network).

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Matru Pitru Poojan Diwas, parents’ worship day, to be celebrated in Brisbane

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he Shiva-Purana states that he who circumambulates parents will certainly derive the fruits and merits of circumambulating the earth.

Mother is the embodiment of all pilgrimages and father is the embodiment of all deities. He who reveres them becomes venerable himself. Lord Ganesha worshipped his parents, so he is the foremost god to be worshipped and became revered by the world. Whoever sings the aarti of parents, God and his guru with devotion becomes selfrestrained and righteous in conduct.

‘Matridevo Bhava; Pitridevo Bhava’ – Regard your mother as a god; regard your father as a god Matru Pitru Poojan Diwas, also called Matra Pitra Pujan Divas, is a festival initiated by Sant Shri Asaram Bapu in 2007 as an

alternative to Valentine's Day. On this day, children from all religions worship their parents like a god and seek their blessings by offering them tilak and garland. This festival makes a real bond between children and parents and imbibes good values like respect, obedience and humility in children.

In several states in India, like Maharashtra, Haryana, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Valentine's Day has been officially renamed as Matru Pitru Pujan Diwas and is celebrated in schools where children seek the blessings from their parents.

In Brisbane, Matri Pitri Pujan Diwas will be celebrated on 15 February at 30, Senney Street, Zillmere, from 6pm to 8:30pm and on 16 February in Luxmi Narayan Mandir at 40, Daymar Street, Burbank, from 4pm to 6:30pm.

Matra Pitra Pujan Divas is a festival initiated by Sant Shri Asaram Bapu in 2007 as an alternative to Valentine's Day For more info about Matra Pitra Pujan Diwas or to get your monthly spiritual magazine Rishi-Prasad free in your mail box in Australia, you can email bskamd@gmail.com or

by WhatsApp / phone call to Ashok Attri and Anu Attri at +61 426 834 434 and +61 405 277 802.

Gayatri Mandir's 28th anniversary celebrated

H

indu Society of Queensland’s Gayatri Mandir in Boondall, which became the first mandir in entire Queensland, not just Brisbane, celebrated its 28th anniversary in January.

The mandir's founders and members celebrated the auspicious day with a prayer in praise of Goddess Ma Saraswati and a hawan yag conducted by Pujye Pandit Praveen Shandil.

Students who participated were given a school pack as a blessing from Ma Saraswati. Pujye Pandit Brijesh Maharaj conducted the prayer seeking the blessings of Ma Saraswati for students as they start the new academic year.

For information on upcoming events at the mandir, readers can visit its Facebook page or website www.hindusocietyqld.org.au.

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Students being given a school pack as a blessing from Ma Saraswati

Pujye Pandit Brijesh Maharaj conducted the prayer seeking the blessings of Ma Saraswati for students as they start the new academic year

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

BSK organises Pongal event for kids in Sunnybank

B

ala Samskara Kendra (BSK) organised their Pongal event at Sunnybank State High School in Sunnybank on January 11.

The event, which was meant more for the children than adults, followed the customary Makara Sankranthi and Pongal routines and also featured the traditional rangoli competition, kite flying and preparation of pongal dish.

Those present were served the vegetarian lunch prepared the traditional way.

Kids off to flying kites

Preparation for kite flying

Kids showing their rangoli colouring artwork

Kids participating in rangoli colouring competition

TAQ hosts Pongal event

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he Tamil Association Queensland (TAQ) hosted a Pongal event on January 18 at Robelle Domain Parklands in Brisbane. The event was attended by the Tamil community, who came with their kids and friends. There were several activities during the day, including singing, dancing, tug of war, and rangoli.

Among the notable guests present on the occasion were FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan, Mr Umesha Chandra, Mrs Usha Chandra and Queensland Police representatives.

Pongal is a multi-day Hindu harvest festival of South India, particularly in the Tamil community. The festival is named after the ceremonial 'pongal', which means 'to boil, overflow' and refers to the traditional dish prepared from the new harvest of rice boiled in milk with jaggery (raw sugar). To mark the festival, the pongal sweet dish is prepared, first offered to the gods and goddesses (goddess Pongal), followed sometimes with an offering to cows, and then shared by the community. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan (left), Mr Umesha Chandra (2nd  right), Mrs Usha Chandra (middle), among other guests

Men's tug of war

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Springfield given a taste of Tamil Pongal festival

T

he Pongal Festival, jointly hosted by Queensland Tamil Mandram (QTM) and Thai Tamil School (TTS), was held at the Robelle Domain Parklands, in Greater Springfield on January 18.

On this warm and sunny evening on the January 19, 2019, hundreds of people flocked to the venue. The event began at 3 pm, and kids and adults started taking part in the various games and activities. This 'free', fun-filled event offered fun rides, musical-chairs game, magic shows, multicultural events, kolam (floor art), tug-of-war, traditional sports and painting competitions.

There were various multicultural food and drinks stalls, and the revelers enjoyed the various dishes displayed there. Comfortable tents and seating were arranged not only for the special guests but for everyone. Just so the public could enjoy watching the various activities and games from anywhere in the ground, those were live cast on the big screen atop the stage.

The event ambassador from the Queensland government, Ms. Charis Mullen MP, State Member for Jordan, Peter Russo MP Toohey, Milton Dick MP, Senator Paul Scarr, Cr Angela Owen, FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan, Mr Umesha Chandra, publisher, Brisbane Indian Times, Hon Consul (India) Mrs Archana Singh, local council members, ex-MPs, representatives of various charity organisations and supporting organisations were invited as special guests.

Pongal, the harvest festival, is celebrated by Tamils all over the world in as thanks-giving to the nature, agriculture, farmers and livestock animals. This annual celebration in South India exhibits ethnic food, art, competitions, fun rides, cultural events, country songs and dances.

In Queensland, this annual event has been organised in 'open park area' since 2014 by the Tamil community in Brisbane. The objective of this event is to create awareness and keep the rich Tamil culture amongst

Chief guests with the festival's Organising Committee from Thaai Tamil School and Queensland Tamil Mandram

On stage with kids - Ms Charis Mullen MP, Peter Russo MP Toohey, Milton Dick MP, Senator Paul Scarr, Cr Angela Owen, Hon Consul (India) Mrs Archana Singh, Mr Umesha Chandra, among others

Game of musical chairs

Ms. Charis Mullen MP addressing the public

the multicultural Queensland community alive through cultural performances, art and music; encourage and support local and overseas country/folk musicians; and support Tamil school, which aims to teach conversational Tamil to enthusiastic learner from various age groups and backgrounds

of Queensland. Moreover, this event adds colour and richness to Queensland’s growing diversity.

Such a big and fabulous event needs meticulous planning, and both the organising institutions did a pretty good job, going by the crowd pullout and the overall fun atmosphere during the event.

Ms. Charis Mullen MP posing with the kids

Pongal celebrated at Sri Selva Vinayakar temple

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ri Selva Vinayakar temple celebrated the Pongal festival in its premises on January  15.

After the Pongal proceedings started in front of the temple at 7am, Makara Sankranthi Abhishekam to Lord Vinayakar was performed. Soon after that regular puja and Pongal puja were done and Pongal prasatham was served to the attendees.

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Pandit Ji performing Pongal puja in front of the temple

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Indian News Queensland | ADVERT

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FEBRUARY 2020

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Brisbane Holi: The most colorful festival of Glimpses from last year's India, in Brisbane

By Harpreet Kaur and Seerat Noori

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hat is the most fun event you’ve been to in your life? Now, imagine a vibrant event where people from various cultures and walks of life come together to celebrate a day-long festival in which you have to playfully put colours on each other while enjoying foot-tapping music and live performances by talented artists from all across the world. There’s the inviting Indian food on the menu, a rain dance party, live DJ music, dance battles, and so many other fun activities for kids as well as for adults.

How does all that sound?

Let’s introduce you to the most spirited, colourful, Indian festival the city celebrates each year.

Brisbane Holi will be holding its 4th edition on Feb 29, and we’ll tell you why it’s one of the most inclusive events you’ll attend in your life and how it’s different from other Holi events people celebrate.

Brief history of Brisbane Holi In the Indian sub-continent, Holi is one of the biggest and most widely

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celebrated festivals. Traditionally, Holi is celebrated to welcome the spring season after the winters and also to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. In 2017, a dedicated bunch of people from Indian Cultural & Sports Club took it upon themselves to organise a glorious event in Brisbane where people from diverse communities could come together and celebrate Holi with as much fervour and enthusiasm as it is celebrated back in India. That’s how Brisbane Holi came to be.

Now in its fourth year in 2020, things are going to be wonderful.

Rocks Riverside Park at Seventeen Mile Rocks will turn into a massive explosion of colour and happy faces on 29 Feb between 12 and 6 pm.

What’s so special about this event First of all, this event is for everyone.

Brisbane Holi is a genuinely inclusive event where you are invited to celebrate an Indian festival but you will find people from various cultures and ethnicities sharing their joy and happiness in a relaxed, safe

and fun environment. But inclusive multiculturalism aside, let's explore what else makes this event such a ‘must-attend party of the year’.

• Live performances in this event genuinely promote the local and visiting artists. Plus there will be dance, music, theatre and much more.

• Cool competitions and activities - While most of the other events would offer you a platform to play Holi, eat, and listen to some music, Brisbane Holi also organises dance competitions to keep things super interesting. For kids, a number of separate games and activities are arranged every year. And this ensures that the little ones could enjoy a joyous, memorable time as well.

• Food from the heavens - Food at this Holi event comes from all parts of India, giving the revelers an opportunity to taste delicious Indian food. Everything’s going to be top-of-the-class, full of flavours and made with love.

• Free-to-attend, most inclusive event - Above all, the entry to the event is free for all ages. Purchase of colour and food is optional.

This is the largest free-entry Holi festival in Queensland for

Brisbane Holi

sure. All members of the wider community are encouraged to make use of the offer. The organising team works hard to make this event available and genuinely inclusive for all the communities. This is

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undoubtedly the most inclusive Indian festival which not only encourages the participation from the wider communities but also from people of all ages kids, youth and adults alike.

FEBRUARY 2020

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Citizenship ceremony welcomes new Aussies

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early two hundred attendees witnessed friends and relatives become Australia’s newest citizens on Australia Day on January 26. The citizenship ceremony held at the Multicultural Hub, Annerley, welcomed 40 new Australians from twenty-five countries across Asia, Europe, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, South Africa and the Middle East.

The event sponsored by the Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Queensland (FSCAQ) also drew support from the multicultural community and religious leaders from across the South East Queensland.

These included indigenous elder Aunty Peggy Tidyman, Sudanese representative and Australia Day ambassador Elijah Boul OAM, African leader Aloise Ngabunga, Chinese community leaders Lewis Lee

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OAM, Jack Sun, Daniel Wong and Alan Chen, Muslim community representative Janeth Deen OAM, Sufi community representative Dr Arsalan Falarti, Punjabi Community representative Parnam Heir, Dr Noel Ganagaraj of Universal Peace Federation, Shyam Das from Power of Us and Indian communities, Macgregor Lions Club and Louise Moeller, representatives of the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland.

The presiding officer, Coorparoo Ward’s Councillor Fiona Cunningham, supervised the candidates as they took their pledges. She reminded them of the rights and responsibilities afforded to them by Australian citizenship.

Vocal support in singing the National Anthem and "I am Australian" was provided by a group from the Australian Myanmar Friendship Association of Queensland.

(From L-R) Zon Pan Phyu (front), Dru Hog Son, Louise Moeller, Cr Fiona Cunningham, Jack Sun, Surendra Prasad OAM , Saras Kewal and Aye Mon Master of ceremonies, FSCAQ President Mr Surendra Prasad OAM, himself an immigrant, welcomed all the new citizens on behalf of all those present.

A message from the Federal Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural

Affairs, Hon. David Coleman was read by the Member for Moreton, Mr Graham Perrett MP. Each new citizen was presented with a native Australian plant to remind them of this important milestone.

Prior to the citizenship ceremony, a flag raising ceremony was held

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in the grounds and afterwards all present were invited to partake of a traditional Aussie sausage sizzle.

The event, undertaken on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs, was supported by a grant from the Brisbane City Council and Cr Fiona Cunningham.

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Indian News Queensland | FASHION

Upma Kite spearheading the trend of all sizes and ages in fashion

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reative Director Upma Kite and her team hosted the mega event Ravishing Fashionistas Runway and Crowning Ceremony, an inclusive fashion show for all ages, sizes and cultures, at Stamford Plaza on February 1. The fashion event raised awareness and funds for the charity Dignifying Women and also bushfire tragedy. Cr. Vicki Howard was the chief guest of the event.

Titles were crowned on the big day, and Mrs Grand Universal 2020 is Vani Varadaraju, ready for the finals in Singapore later in the year. Following her own success in Mexico in 2019 – being crowned Mrs Australia Universal, People’s Choice, Upma Kite was appointed to the esteemed role of Australian Director for the Mrs Grand Universe Pageants.

The event, hosted by celebrity host Bec McMillan, was attended by social media influencers and VVIPs: Liz Murrihy, Jennifer Vines, Marie Hillard, Ilana Collins, Belinda Love, Jade Foster Kevin and Linda Lola.

Daniel Hamill, an aboriginal Bidjara man, played didgeridoo to open the ceremony and acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land past, present and future. The Voice fame Candice Dianne performed a song written and composed by herself on domestic violence.

The event included the launch of the

magazine Ravishing Fashionistas.

Also, Kite announced the launch of her modelling agency inclusive of all ages and sizes called Ravishing Fashionistas Beauty Pageants And Models.

The event showcased sensational fashion designs and accessories from existing and emerging Australian designers, bringing their creative talents to the local and international markets. These designs were gracefully presented on the red carpet by stunning models who had worked hard since the casting call to forge their careers in a challenging industry.

By advocating with this event that ‘age and size are just numbers’, the Ravishing Fashionistas team demonstrated strong leadership in breaking fashion industry stereotypes and long-held beliefs to promote positive body image and confidence among contemporary women.

The show was also a fantastic opportunity for the designers and models to network with the fashion industry fraternity and enthusiasts.

The 250+ guests included social influencers, well-known personalities and brand ambassadors from various communities. This event also provided the participants a fantastic opportunity to gain exposure across multiple social media channels.

Wendy Makin Designs

Moreno Marcos Designs

Upma Kite, Creative Director, RFRCC

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Liz Murrihy, Ambassador, RFRCC and Upma Kite (right)

(From L-R) Cr.Vicki Howard, Bec McMillan and Upma Kite

Black and Bling Designs

Wendy Makin Designs

Platinum sponsor: Brazilian Beauty, Australian Skin Institute Gold sponsors: DD layers, IntechInstitue of Technology, Indian Brothers Decor: Era de fluer and Impact zero Media partners: Brisbane Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio, iModel Magazine, Indian News Queensland DJ: Levi Leko Sponsors: Epic Creations, Mobile Connect, iLashXtreme, Shelly Mehra Makeovers, Selfie Frames Australia, Candles by Annaz and Give and bake, The Aroma Coteria Lucky Dip/Raffle sponsors: Sirus Immigration, Brazilian Beauty, and Tranquil Tea Best dressed lucky draws sponsored by: Fascinators by Sima Mala and Wendy Louise Designs Jewellery Proudly supporter by: Kingstones International academy and Mind your Fashion

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Indian News Queensland | FASHION

Plus-size women inspired in a beauty pageant

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umbai girl Bindiya Sharma and Delhi girl Pragya Pathak were crowned with the title of Ms India Curvy 2020.

The pageant, which aims to inspire plus-size women and promote body positivity, was organised by Glamour Gurgaon and focused on breast cancer awareness.

Commenting on her win, Sharma said: "I was very happy to get selected as a finalist. But I had never walked a ramp before, ever in life. I can never forget how well they trained us for the finale.

They made sure to give us all the grooming and make up sessions, nutritional guidance to make us shine like a star."

A total of 72 contestants were shortlisted after auditions held in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Jaipur. The contestants were judged through multiple rounds where they wore designer ensembles from AV Couture by Aenna Sharma.

"Being one of the finalists in 72 amazing girls and then a winner, this journey has been an out of the world experience for me", said Pathak.

"It's going to change the course of my life for sure. I heard it somewhere, don't try to fit in, you are custom made.' Ms India Curvy and Glamour Gurgaon is doing just that for you, making you love yourself and celebrate your body," she said.

Barkha Nangia, director, Glamour Gurgaon, said, "Until now people blindly followed the myth that fashion and lifestyle industry is run by zero size figure. With so many initiatives taken to break this myth, I am glad that our platform of Ms India Curvy contributed to a great extent to break this taboo and provide the fashion and entertainment world with the talents in packed in plussize models. Women are beautiful in all sizes."

Burj Khalifa lights up in Indian flag colours

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he Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, celebrated the Indian Republic Day by displaying the tricolours on its LED facade.

Winners of Miss India Curvy 2020 at the grand finale in New Delhi on Jan 5, 2020 (Photo IANS)

Participants walk the ramp during the grand finale

TAQ organises Picnic by the Bay

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t was a fun-filled evening at the Bayside Park in Manly on January 11 during the event, Picnic by the Bay, organised

by Tamil Association Queensland.

Activities included paddle boarding, fishing lessons, traditional games, kite making and flying, besides cooked-on-site food. Participants came with their families and friends and had fun flying kites and fishing at the bay.

Participants taking fishing lessons

Colours of the Indian flag lit up the tower at 8:10 pm on January 26, reported the Khaleej Times.

Earlier in the day, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) leadership congratulated Indian President Ram Nath Kovind on the occasion.

The President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, sent messages to President Kovind. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also sent similar messages to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The day also saw cultural programmes at Indian missions all across the UAE, which was attended by a large number of expats.

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Indian News Queensland | NEWS FROM INDIA

Ambani all set to give Amazon and Flipkart a stiff competition The virtual retail battleground is about to heat up as Mukesh Ambani gets ready to venture into the realm of online shopping portals hitherto dominated by Amazon and Flipkart, writes Devashish Chakraborty Following the success of Reliane Jio, which radically transformed the telecom industry in home nation India and almost decimated the market presence of all other formidable telecom giants, Reliance industries, headed by Asia’s wealthiest man, Mukesh Ambani, is now ready to take the arena of Indian e-commerce by storm. The tycoon, who is always on the lookout to expand the conglomerate’s operating zone, has now decided to carve a niche for the Reliance Group, whose mainstay is oil refining, by fortifying a dominant position in India’s rapidly burgeoning online consumer goods and services business.

Streamlining the door-step delivery of groceries In a bid to capture the grocery and other household consumables market, RIL recently launched the virtual shopping platform, Jiomart.

In fact, two of its subsidiaries, Reliance Retail and Reliance Jio, have commenced the process of inviting people to register online for the new online grocery delivery service. The platform is still in its experimental stage, and it has currently been launched on a small scale with its services presently restricted to online shoppers residing in three suburban areas of Mumbai. It goes without saying that

if this online B2C service achieves popularity, then its reach will be widened to encompass the complete geographical confines of India.

This platform, instead of providing and delivering the goods itself, will instead only serve as a common virtual meeting ground for offline grocery sellers and the customers seeking the most suitable shops selling the grocery items they need. This would ensure the express delivery of grocery items to customers’ doorstep. The company is confident about the success of this platform, whose app version is compatible with both iphones and android phones, for it is planning to tap its wide mobile phone customer base.

Monopoly in grocery delivery system The grocery delivery system in India is still in the nascent stage of development, so there are hardly any worthy contenders to be taken into account. Moreover, it is being predicted that in the near future this is going to be a lucrative business prospect, and retailers having astute commercial foresight will be vying for the leading position in the market.

Although online retail behemoths, such as Walmart, Amazon and Flipkart having robust channels of distribution, will be on the lookout to claim the lion’s share of the potential profits, Ambani’s Reliance is bound to have an edge over its rivals for it already possesses millions of subscribers to its telecom networks. Coupled with this, it already has a chain of

Mukesh Ambani’s business acumen has proved to be flawless in the past, and Reliance Industries has always gained acclaim for usurping the lead position of any business it enters

Jio Mart is being promoted as desh ki nayi dukaan (nation's new grocery shop) its own grocery stores and retail outlets selling a wide array of goods of international brands.

Another prominent factor in Reliance’s favour is that Amazon and Walmart being foreign companies are being halted from expanding freely by government

laws providing protection to domestic business. Similarly, despite the presence of other Indian grocery delivery service providers, such as Big Basket, Reliance does not have much to be apprehensive about as the former are grappling with issues such as weak infrastructure, flawed

mobile networks and stringent labour laws.

Ambani’s business acumen has proved to be flawless in the past, and Reliance Industries has always gained acclaim for usurping the lead position of any business that it enters and thus, it is expected to replicate its success once again.

General Bipin Rawat appointed as the inaugural Chief of Defence Staff

By Rabindra Mukherji

Modi government finally gave the green signal to the appointment of General Bipin Rawat as the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) in a bid to overhaul India’s national security

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s 2020 was ushered in with a flood of New Year resolutions, the Indian Government at least cannot be accused of breaking one of its most pivotal ones. After having been in the works since 2001 in the aftermath of the Kargil war, the appointment of India’s first CDS came into fruition with the announcement of General Bipin Rawat’s name for the strategic post. A day after retiring as the Chief of Army staff, Rawat took up office as the CDS on January 1, 2020. Needless to say, this monumental decision will have several significant effects.

Role and responsibilities of the CDS In broad terms, the CDS will have primarily two roles. First, he would www.indiannewsqld.com.au

serve as the permanent chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (CoSC) till he reaches the age of 65.

Earlier, the chairmanship was held by one of the three chiefs-Army, Navy and Air Force-on a rotational basis. The designation of the CDS as the permanent chairman of CoSC means that he would be able to focus exclusively on the administration of the three defence arms and foster “jointmanship in their operations". Moreover, unlike the past when the ambiguity of the CoSC chairman's role hindered him from taking concrete decisions in the nuclear command chain, this too has been streamlined as the CDS will also serve in the capacity of the Primary Military Adviser (PMA) to the nuclear command authority.

Second, he would be at the helm of the newly created Department of Military Affairs (DMA) in the Defence Ministry. Previously, the duties of the DMA were being overseen by the Department of Defence. The DMA will now work exclusively on matters pertaining to the military, while the latter will look after the macro issues associated with the defence of the country.

What are the effects of the creation of this office?

The creation of this office could not have come at a more opportune time as, with an unprecedented rise in national security issues, the need to synergise the efforts of the three branches of the defence has become paramount. Now that the office

of the CDS has become operative, execution of theatre commands, that is, unified commands which would not only include military operations of the Army, Navy and Air Force but also manpower planning and formulation of strategies, will be more effective. Within the purview of the CDS’s responsibilities would also fall the allocation of defence budget on priority basis without any bias, which would cut down wasteful expenditure substantially.

Now, many might assume that this would tantamount to the service chiefs being divested of their respective powers. But, that would be an erroneous conjecture as the three service chiefs would still retain their advisory roles to the government in matters concerning their respective services. Besides, the CDS will also

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A day after retiring as the Chief of Army, General Bipin Rawat took up office as the CDS on January 1, 2020 not exercise any military command over the three service chiefs. Hence, despite offering advice to the PM on long-term defence planning and management, the CDS will not be the single point-advisor to the government.

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Indian News Queensland | NEWS FROM INDIA

Big fat Indian weddings get a millennial upgrade

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he last decade has witnessed a true transformation of Indian weddings, reinventing tradition with a mix of personal expression. From bold pops of colour, innovative mandap ideas, statement sangeet performances, a dizzying array of food and beverages to unique invitation ideas, the big fat Indian wedding has received a makeover.

What enabled this was millennials!

The last decade saw a new generation taking the marital plunge, and millennials tend to plan weddings that are a unique fusion of both traditional and modern ideas.

Here are some millennial wedding trends that have switched things up for good: Zero waste weddings Indian weddings come with the glitziest of decorations and the fanciest food which, more often than not, leads to wastage and environmental damage.

But fortunately, more and more millennial couples are opting for environmentally conscious alternatives by including more organic cutlery, packing, and party favours rather than using plastic and unsustainable traditional options.

Photos IANS

Couples are also exploring partnering with multiple NGOs and nonprofits to distribute leftover food and beverages to the needy to reduce wastage of food and water.

Eco-friendly party favours including planting kits, bamboo stationery, and other sustainable and crueltyfree items are increasingly becoming a badge of pride for the millennial wedding.

Hello e-invites!

Millennials are the first generation to be introduced to the internet at large, and they have grown up with technology around them evolving faster than ever. They obviously had to be the generation that favours an e-invite over a physical one. There are still many couples that choose the extravagance of physical invites, but the number of those invites are reducing to elderly invitees.

However, there are also some amazing alternatives for those who prefer the physical invite, such as ones made with recycled paper and infused with seeds that makes the entire card plantable.

Financial stability before vows Traditionally, parents tend to foot the bill for their children's weddings, and they do so with a lot of pride and happiness too. Millennials,

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however, are a generation driven by a strong sense of independence. They prioritise financial independence before getting married, and often contribute monetarily towards their big day. Not just the big day though, financial independence also entails planning for a life post marriage and accounting for expenses thereafter. Which is why you see more and more millennials choosing to marry a little later than previous generations.

Team it up!

Gone are the days when the bride and groom couldn't meet before their shaadi. Now the wedding parties are created based on relationships and involve both sides. This trend has grown in tandem with destination weddings, where both groom and bride's side of guests move to one

location for the duration of the weddings. This results in a beautiful amalgamation and collaboration of two families' tradition and culture for common haldi, sangeet and mehendi functions instead of separate ones.

Customising is key Decade ago all weddings looked the same. Today's weddings are the opposite. Millennial couples want their big day to be unique in every way possible. They do this by adding different themes, decor, fashion, and even hashtags that represent their personalities, passions and their love story. Millennial weddings are now a closed affair rather than the einvite the town' norm of the 70s and 80s.

At last, it's all about treasuring relationships before traditions.

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19

Indian News Queensland | RELIGION

GCHCA conducts vastu puja for proposed cultural precinct

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astu Puja was held on the morning of Sunday, 26 January at the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association's proposed cultural precinct in Arundel. Shri Lakshmi Narayana Kurukkal, former chief priest, Sri SelvaVinayakar Temple, performed the puja with the participation of GCHCA members and the Indian community members.

Devotees at the puja ceremony

Pandit Ji Shri Lakshmi Narayana Kurukkal performing the vastu puja

The proposed cultural precinct in Arundel where the vastu puja was held

Swami Vivekananda's birthday celebrated at Vedanta Centre

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he Vedanta Centre in Springfield Lakes held two programmes – a solemn worship programme on 12 January to celebrate the actual tithi (day) of Swami Vivekananda’s birth and another programme on Saturday, 18 January, to facilitate the participation of more number of people on a weekend.

On the 18th January, the day began with sonorous chanting from the Vedic scriptures followed by worship and Havan (offerings through fire).

Devotional music was rendered by Atul Deshpande, Dr Gopal Bose, Dr Ashwin Sathyamoorthi and a few others.

15-year-old Angad Deshpande spoke about how Swami Vivekananda is still just as relevant to the youth. He narrated how, at his age, the young Narendranath (later Vivekananda) was far ahead of his friends in maturity and knowledge – at a very young age he had studied both Eastern and Western philosophies and was adept in music (by the age of 18 he had published a book on classical music in Bengali), in wrestling and other physical activities.

Jayshree Kapadia, representing the elderly devotees of the centre, spoke about how thoughts inspired by Vedantic teachings could transform us. She narrated her own experience

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Devotees being offered dhoop, the holy smoke

Devotional music being rendered by Atul Deshpande about the guidance and inspiration she received by studying the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.

After the programme, the congregation was served with a sumptuous lunch-prasad.

Apart from the admirers and devotees of the Vedanta Centre, Mrs Teresa Harding, LNP’s Mayoral Candidate for Ipswich Council, along with her husband Steven Voll, attended the programme.

Devotees being offered the holy smoke

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FEBRUARY 2020

20

Indian News Queensland | TRAVEL

The Grand and Glorious Angkor Wat Its classic architecture and the colossal past, its sheer magnitude and the view during the sunrise and sunset, all come together to underscore the grandeur of Angkor Wat, writes Dr Ram Mohan

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had all sorts of pre-conceived ideas about Angkor Wat before my fist visit last month, and the biggest one was that it is one temple. It is not. Angkor Wat covers an area over 162.6 hectares, and the whole Angkor consists of more than a thousand temples, which are all scattered around.

Before you get to the main temple of Angkot Wat, you get to the city of Siem Reap, which is a booming tourism hub with all the infrastructure developed to cater to the tourists. So much so that nearly half of the tourists to Cambodia are international visitors wanting to visit Angor Wat. As you get to the various temples, you are swarmed by little kids trying to hustle you into buying trinkets, guidebooks, bracelets, and all that.

And they were are pretty relentless too at that. But once you get inside the temple complex, you are struck by how well preserved the carvings are, which are indeed beautiful and awe-inspiring and make you wonder how could they have been preserved so well. You rather enjoy roaming around on the 3rd floor of Angkor Wat, which in the times of its original glory was reserved for only the king and the queen.

Seeing the sunrise at the temple As you cross Angkor Wat main gate, you have to find a spot in front of the building. There is a bridge leading to the temple, and you want to stay on the left of the bridge, where you can see a lake with flowers. That's your spot to appreciate the sunrise at the Angkor Wat. The reflection of the temple and the clouds in the lake makes the sunrise all the more beautiful, even stunning with intense colours and clarity.

Angkor Wat's history Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Untill the 15th century, Angkor was the center of the Khmer Kingdom, but after that Angkor was abandoned and the temple Angkor Wat came to be regarded as a Buddhist shrine. As

the best-preserved temple at the site, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors.

The original name of the temple was Vrah Visnuloka or Parama Visnuloka (Sanskrit), which means the sacred dwelling of Vishnu. According to legend, the construction of Angkor Wat was ordered by Indra to serve as a palace for his son Precha Ket Mealea. According to the 13th-century Chinese traveller Zhou Daguan, some believed that the temple was constructed in a single night by a divine architect.

Towards the end of the 12th century, Angkor Wat gradually transformed from a Hindu centre of worship to Buddhism, which continues to the present day.

Classical architecture Angkor Wat beautifully displays the classical style of Khmer architecture.

By the 12th century architects in the Khmer region had become skilled in the use of sandstone as the main building material, choosing not to use bricks or laterite. Most of the visible areas within the temple are build with sandstone blocks, and only the outer wall and for hidden structural parts are built with laterite.

The temple has drawn praise above all for the harmony of its design.

According to Maurice Glaize, a mid-20th-century conservator of Angkor, the temple "attains a classic perfection by the restrained monumentality of its finely balanced elements and the precise arrangement of its proportions. It is a work of power, unity and style."

Architecturally, the typical decorative elements are the carved images of devatas and apsaras, bas-reliefs, extensive garlands and narrative scenes. Many elements of the design have been destroyed by looting and the passage of time, including gilding on some figures on the bas-reliefs, and wooden ceiling panels and doors.

You can see the tiny us in the middle of the huge Angkor Wat courtyard

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Courtesy Wikimedia Commons - Jakub Hałun

Courtesy Wikimedia Commons - Erik Hooymans

Behind us is the front of the main Angkor Vishnu Churning the Sea of Milk Angkor Wat (Courtesy Wikimedia Commons - Michael Gunther) Wat  temple

Eastern gallery of Angkor Wat

Courtesy - Wikimedia Commons - Pierre Andre Leclercq

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FEBRUARY 2020

21

Indian News Queensland | SPORTS

Age is now just a number in Indian cricket

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ricket as a sport in the past was always looked at as one that had the aura of royalty. Whether it was played on the village green or in a stadium, it had that lethargic approach of a sport that showcased elegance, character and endurance rather than one with a fast and furious approach. Cricket was a sport that taught one the way of life, of its ups and downs, where individuals shone but a teams' performance finally was the ultimate goal.

The slow pace of the game with time between each delivery, breaks in play, change of ends, all culminated into sportsmen who had more of a mental ability to have patience rather than one boasting of a six pack. Fitness was important but not essential to achieve success.

Cricketers of legendary status went on to play the game well past their 50s and some who performed well even then were W G Grace and the two great Indian cricketers, D B Deodhar and India's first Test captain C K Nayudu. For them and many more such cricketers, "age was just a number". The cricket followers who admired them encouraged their presence, as they were the royals who graced the sacred turf.

Cricket in India after independence took a very different turn as regards the age of a cricketer. Any individual after the age of 30 was branded as a veteran. To play cricket for India, if one was not already well established after that age, was a remote possibility. The reason for this was that through cricket one could not make one's living and the 30s was just the age when a cricketer, having played his part in partaking in his

By Yajurvindra Singh

passion, was ready to settle down to make a life for himself.

Cricket was, therefore, looked upon as a young man's game where the older players were kept more for their experience to educate the youngster in every aspect of the game. Age has become a very important issue in Indian cricket.

The U-19 age group has become the most prominent platform for a young budding cricketer to get recognised.

Fudging of age, therefore, became one area of concern that the BCCI has finally taken a very strict approach to. India's century scorer, Manjot Kalra, in the last U-19 World Cup final that India won, was a prime example of the crime of fudging his age. This was only unearthed recently.

In Olympics, the team would have been disrobed of their title, which fortunately didn't take place in this case. But, for India, it was an embarrassment and a good reason to put a system in place to monitor each player.

Personally, I do not agree with Rahul Dravid's views of an U-19 player playing in only one World Cup. One participates in the cup donning the Indian colors and the best side should be playing for the trophy, whether one has played earlier or not is immaterial. India as a nation comes first, especially when one is participating with the Indian colors. The lacuna in the system is another issue.

The limited-overs version of cricket has brought in a completely different perspective in the life of a cricketer. Athleticism, agility, speed and stamina have become essential

ingredients for a cricketer, given the increasing work load of matches and the fast pace of the shortened version of the game.

The T20 version that was introduced to make cricket more exciting, made physical fitness and power an addition requirement for a cricketer. A burst of quick activities while bowling, fielding and faster running between the wickets have all led to an acceleration never before encountered on the cricket field. The muscles of a cricketer today have to be able to sustain the initial thrust similar to that of a 100 meters runner. A far cry from the slow and smooth pace that a cricketer faced in the days is gone by.

The modern technique, equipment, advise and well trained and certified physical fitness and nutrition trainers have played a major part in making the modern cricketer a fit, trim and a chiseled body individual.

The "age" of a player now has, therefore, become a non-entity.

However, in India one finds that the mindset has not changed. M S Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav are two players who come to mind, one who will turn 42 and the other 38 when the next World Cup will be played in India in 2023.

For most, age is one criteria that they feel will automatically debar both Dhoni and Jadhav from contesting for a place in the side. One was, therefore, amused when in a recent press conference, the Australian limited-overs captain, Aaron Finch, was asked as to whether he and Warner will be playing the next World Cup. Both would be on the wrong side of 30s and his answer was quite

Aaron Finch recently said it was not their age but his and Warner's wives who will decide if they will play the next World Cup

Colonel C K Nayudu played first-class cricket till the age of 68 interesting. He said it was not the age but their respective wives who will decide their fate as three years is a long time to think ahead.

Selecting a cricket side now has made age a non-existent criteria for selection at the senior level.

The passion to continue playing and the zest to do so mentally and physically is far more important.

The monitoring of one's state of health and body and opportunities to stay fit and young are immense in today's world.

Colonel C K Nayudu played firstclass cricket till the age of 68.

Virat Kohli is just 31 years old.

One wonders if he can over time sustain the same enthusiasm and love for the game. A span of eight World Cups for him should be easily possible.

Roger Federer is still going strong at the age of 38 in tennis and Fauja Singh, the tenacious Sikh, ran the London marathon at the age of 101.

One can confidently say that "age is just a number now", in cricket, it is how you play it that will make the difference.

Kohli fantastic but lucky as well: Razzaq

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ormer Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has termed Virat Kohli as a "fantastic player" without a doubt, but believes the Indian skipper is "lucky" as he gets full support from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

"He (Virat Kohli) is a fantastic player and there is no doubt about it. However, he is lucky as the BCCI supports him well and instills the confidence in him that any player needs to succeed," Razzaq was quoted as saying by PakPassion.net.

"The respect he gets from his board is what probably inspires him to do well all the time and the results are there for all to see," he added.

Razzaq also claimed the Pakistani players can also surpass Kohli provided they get the same amount of support from the Pakistan

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INDIA, SRI LANKA, NEPAL, BANGLADESH, PAKISTAN, FIJI AND OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD. “We also specialise in escorted tours to India/Sri Lanka/Nepal and other parts of the world”

Abdul Razzaq Kohli Cricket Board (PCB) which Kohli gets from BCCI. "I do believe that even in Pakistan we have players who could become better than Virat Kohli, but they are neglected by our system which is a tragedy. In Kohli's case, he has taken that confidence shown

in him by the board and using his talent, repaid them with his performances," the former Pakistan all-rounder said.

Kohli is currently leading the Indian team in New Zealand where the two teams are competing in five T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests.

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Dubai-based Indian expat jailed for groping

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Dubai-based Indian expat was sentenced to three months in prison for groping a woman in a mall, it was reported on Jan 28.

According to Dubai public prosecution, the 33-year-old Indian man groped the 35-year-old Syrian woman intentionally, reports the Khaleej Times. The defendant was found guilty of sexual harassment and will be deported after serving his time in jail. The incident had

Indian News Queensland | GLOBAL DIASPORA

Man charged following deaths of 3 Sikh men in London

taken place on August 2, 2019.

The complainant said she was with her children and mother at the mall when she spotted the accused looking at her. She was surprised when he walked very close to her while still staring at her from behind. "I shouted at him after he suddenly groped me," the woman added.

CCTV footage showed the man groping the woman.

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man has been charged following the deaths of three Sikh men who were stabbed in a street fight in London, a media report said on January 28.

The victims, Harinder Kumar (22), Narinder Singh (26), and Baljit Singh (34) were stabbed near the Seven Kings station in

Ilford on the night of January 19.

On the night of January 27, the Metropolitan Police announced that Sandeep Singh (29) has been charged with conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) and causing GBH with intent, the BBC said in a report.

A second man arrested over the deaths has since been eliminated

from the investigation, the BBC report added.

The Met Police believes that those involved were from Sikh and Hindu communities and known to each other. According to reports, the three men were killed in the fight allegedly sparked by a dispute over money owed for construction work.

Body of missing Indian-American student found in lake

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he body of a female Indian-American student, who was reported missing since January 21, was found in a lake in the state of Indiana, it was reported. The 21-year-old victim, Annrose Jerry, was a student of the University of Notre Dame, reports The American Bazaar.

The body was fished out from the St. Mary's Lake and an external examination of showed no signs of trauma, according to a coroner.

accidentally fallen into the lake, while taking a walk or jogging.

A senior, Jerry was set to graduate from Notre Dame this year. She was a science-business major and had hopes of going to dental school. In a statement, the University of Notre Dame offered condolences to Jerry's family.

A source close to Jerry's family told the American Bazaar that when the body was recovered, her phone and earbuds were intact, adding that most likely she might have

Jerry was born in Ernakulum, Kerala, India, and immigrated to the US in the early 2000s, along with her family. Her father Jerry James is an information technology professional and mother Reny Jerry is a dentist.

Kangana calls Virat Kohli Panga King of Team India

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ctress Kangana Ranaut feels India skipper Virat Kohli is the most fearless player in the Indian cricket team.

"I am the Panga queen, and the Panga king of Team India is definitely Virat Kohli. He is fearless and is up for any challenges that come his way. This time we both will take a 'Panga' on the same day - mine will be at the theatres, and he will battle it out against New Zealand team on their home

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ground. This will be fun," Kangana said while promoting her upcoming film "Panga".

Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, "Panga" also features Neena Gupta, Richa Chadha and Jassie Gill. The film, that hit screens on January 24, revolves around a kabaddi player, played by Kangana, who wants to make a comeback in the game after marriage and motherhood.

Kangana aired her opinion on Star Sports' Nerolac Cricket Live.

Kangna Ranaut

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Virat Kohli FEBRUARY 2020

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Indian News Queensland | HEALTH

Belly fat may lead to multiple heart attacks

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eart patients, please take note. Researchers have found that heart attack survivors who carry excess fat around their waist are at increased risk of another heart attack.

"Abdominal obesity not only increases your risk for a first heart attack or stroke, but also the risk for recurrent events after the first misfortune," said study author Hanieh Mohammadi from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden.

Prior studies have shown that abdominal obesity is an important risk factor for having a first heart attack. But until now, the association between abdominal obesity and the risk of a subsequent heart attack or stroke was unknown.

The research, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, followed more than 22,000 patients after their first heart attack and investigated the relation between abdominal obesity (measured by waist circumference) and the risk for recurrent cardiovascular disease events.

The researchers specifically looked at events caused by clogged arteries, such as fatal and non-fatal heart attack and stroke. Patients were recruited from the nationwide SWEDEHEART wregistry and followed for a median of 3.8 years. Most patients -- 78 percent of men and 90 percent of women -- had abdominal obesity (waist circumference 94 cm or above

for men and 80 cm or above for women).

Increasing abdominal obesity was independently associated with fatal and non-fatal heart attacks and strokes, regardless of other risk factors (such as smoking, diabetes, hypertension, blood pressure, blood lipids and body mass index [BMI]) and secondary prevention treatments.

According to the researchers, waist circumference was a more important marker of recurrent events than overall obesity. The reason abdominal obesity is very common in patients with a first heart attack is that it is closely linked with conditions that accelerate the clogging of arteries

Eye care tips if you look at screens all day

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igital rules, and most people these days are glued to a screen for several hours a day, slowly eroding away their precious eyesight.

Whether at home, at the office, or even while travelling, it is almost hard to imagine life without mobile screens, computer screens and the television! For corporate professionals, both their professional and social life often involves staring intently at a screen.

For these reasons, a lot of computer users today are developing edigital eye strain' or ecomputer vision syndrome' and experience symptoms such as eye strain, headaches, dry eyes and blurred vision, says Dr. Mahmood Hussein, Head of Ophthalmic Department, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai.

If you spend a lot of time looking at a screen and have started to experience any of these symptoms, the first thing to do is to reduce your screen time. The doctor, who is also associated with mfine, a virtual hospital on the cloud, shares useful tips to take better care of your eyes.

1. Place the computer screen at least 20 inches away from you Ideally, the computer screen should be between 20-40 inches away from you. If it is too close or too distant, it may cause you to sit in an awkward position. Also, the top of your computer screen should be at or a little below eye level, to minimise any strain on the eyes.

2. Ensure that the screen is not too bright When your screen is very bright, you are exposed to more eblue

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light'. This type of light can harm the eyes and affect your vision.

Moreover, if you are sitting too close to a window or you can see reflected light in your computer screen, it can lead to eye strain and fatigue. Instead, ensure that the room is well lit. Reduce the brightness of your screen and add a glare filter if possible. Also, reduce the colour temperature of your display in order to reduce the amount of blue light emitted by the monitor.

3. Use a separate pair of computer glasses if necessary Some people who do not need glasses for everyday use may benefit from using glasses specifically prescribed for computer use. Others who are nearsighted may find that their current prescription is not ideal for the computer; they could also benefit from special glasses meant for intermediate distances, rather than progressive or bifocal  lenses.

4. Take a break and look away from your screen If your work requires you to look at a computer screen for a long time, make sure you take regular breaks. Follow the 20:20:20 rule to reduce eye strain: every 20 minutes, look at an object about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. If possible, walk away from your desk every hour or two, and look at a distant object through a window. This change in focus helps to exercise and thus relax the muscles of the eye.

5. Keep your eyes refreshed When you stare at a screen, you tend to blink less, which tires and dries the eyes. This, coupled with the air-conditioning of most corporate offices, may result in

through atherosclerosi, the researchers said. These conditions include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar and insulin resistance (diabetes) as well as raised blood lipid levels.

"Our results, however, suggest that there may be other negative mechanisms associated with abdominal obesity that are independent of these risk factors and remain unrecognised," Mohammadi said. "In our study, patients with increasing levels of abdominal obesity still had a raised risk for recurrent events despite being on therapies that lower traditional risk factors connected with abdominal obesity such as antihypertensives, diabetes medication and lipid lowering drugs."

Our dance moves are as unique as fingerprint: Study

O Use a separate pair of computer glasses if necessary

Take a break and look away from your screen the eyes becoming very dry. To avoid this, take a break every couple of hours to splash some cold water on the eyes. Remember to blink more often to keep the eyes lubricated. Cooling drops can also help to refresh the eyes.

If you still experience trouble with your vision despite taking all these precautions, you are encouraged to visit an ophthalmologist at the earliest and get your eyesight checked.

According to the study, the relationship between waist circumference and recurrent events was stronger and more linear in men. "There were three times as many men in the study compared to women, contributing to less statistical power in the female group. Therefore, more studies are needed before definite conclusions can be drawn according to gender," Mohammadi noted.

ur dance style is almost always the same, regardless of the type of music, and a computer algorithm can identify the dancer with astounding accuracy, a new research suggests.

"It seems as though a person's dance movements are a kind of fingerprint, each person has a unique movement signature that stays the same no matter what kind of music is playing," said study co-author Pasi Saari from University of Jyvaskyla in Finland.

According to the study, published in the Journal of New Music Research, over the last few years, researchers at the have used motion capture technology--the same kind used in Hollywood--to learn that your dance moves say a lot about you, such as how extroverted or neurotic you are, what mood you happen to be in, and even how much you empathise with other people.

"Our original idea was to see if we could use machine learning to identify which genre of music our participants were dancing to, based on their movements," said study first author Emily Carlson.

Recently, they discovered something that surprised them.

The 73 participants in the study were motion captured dancing to eight different genres: Blues, Country, Dance/Electronica, Jazz, Metal, Pop, Reggae and Rap. The only instruction they received was to listen to the music and move any way that felt natural. The researchers analysed participants' movements using machine learning, trying to distinguish between the musical genres.

Unfortunately, their computer algorithm was able to identify the correct genre less that 30 percent of the time. They were shocked to discover, however, that the computer could correctly identify which of the 73 individuals was dancing 94 percent of the time.

The computer was less accurate in identifying individuals when they were dancing to Metal music. "There is a strong cultural association between Metal and certain types of movement, like headbanging, it's probable that Metal caused more dancers to move in similar ways, making it harder to tell them apart," Carlson said.

Malaika Arora demonstrating the reclined pigeon pose (Photo IANS)

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The Goal of Glory

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h, sitting cozily on the couch, snacking on some potato chips and bingewatching your favorite show definitely outweighs sweating and gasping for air at the gym, right?

Well, for me it does, and I sense that most people would agree with me.

I mean, exercise, I haven’t said that word since January 1, when I made my new year’s resolutions (spoiler alert: I never accomplished them).

In my defense, Netflix released some real good stuff. But, I mean, that was so last year. Okay, I should now get to the point rather than just babbling about exercise and Netflix.

Now, most of us make resolutions for the New Year, and some common ones are to exercise more, eat less junk food, save money, get a new job or a part time job, and so on. But, let’s get real, we never really continue with our resolutions

after the first week of the year is over. There has to be some way of achieving our resolutions, right?

Well, yes, there is! Try following the ‘SMART’ goal technique. Each letter stands for a word that helps you reach closer to that goal. So, here’s what they stand for.

• S – Specific – This means your goal or goals need to be extremely specific. A resolution might sound like this, “I want to go running more”. Well, what days of the week do you want to go? What time are you planning to do it? Do you want to run around the block or go to the gym and run on a treadmill?

How much distance do you want to cover every day? Now, this might sound like a lot, but making your goal clear will help you clarify what exactly it is that you’re working towards.

Suhani Sharma • M – Measurable – You need to make sure that your goal is measurable. This means that once your resolution is reached, you can see some difference in yourself, like something has improved. Are you fitter, more social, happier?

Indian News Queensland | READER'S CORNER • A – Attainable – This means your goal needs to be realistic and achievable. Suppose you didn’t go running one day last year, and your goal is to go running for an hour every single day this year. Now, that isn’t very realistic; a smart goal would be to go running twice a week, and when you’re used to that routine, you can increase the days you go, and so on.

• R – Relevant and rewarding – This means that you really want to achieve that goal; you’re driven towards it, and you’re motivated. If it’s hard for you to stay motivated sometimes, then try rewarding yourself.

Maybe after a day of running, you can go out to eat or watch your favorite movie, basically do something you enjoy.

• T – Trackable – Make sure you’re tracking your goal.

Suppose your goal was to write a journal for at least 15 minutes daily. Well, after a week, are

you seeing some improvement in your writing skills or your handwriting? You need to be able to tack your goal to make sure that you’re making progress; if not, then that probably means you need to change something in your goal.

Lastly, remember that you don’t just have to make your resolutions in the new year, you can make them anytime of the year! If you started today, then the next New Year for your resolution would be the 366th day from today! Do you get what I’m saying now? I mean, if you want to get better at, say, sketching, don’t wait for the new year to come; just start now and make it a habit by following one of the tips above or any other tip that works for you.

And if you happen to lose sight of your resolutions for 2020, start again now, it’s never too late!

By Suhani Sharma Suhani is 13 and currently in Grade 7. She writes on social issues among the youth, common problems that teenagers experience, as well as fun topics.

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#malaikasmoveoftheweek to get you started for an awesome week. This week's pose is Modified Reclined Pigeon Pose," she captioned the picture.

Malaika nails PM Modi's vision for cleaner India a privilege to a new yoga posture hear: Bear Grylls

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t was Bear Grylls with whom India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi unleashed his adventurous side on the former's TV show "Man vs Wild" last year. For Grylls, it was no less than a special experience to come to India and explore its beauty with Modi.

"It was a huge privilege to take Prime Minister Modi on a journey.

I'm a huge fan of the wilderness and the beauty of India, not just the terrain, but also the people.

We're coming back to India to do more this year," Grylls said in a recent interview with news agency IANS, reminiscing his wild and adventurous meeting with PM Modi.

itness freak Malaika Arora has nailed the modified reclined pigeon pose.

Not just that, she is encouraging her fans to learn the yoga posture.

Malaika took to Instagram on Jan 20 to share a photo of hers where she can be seen striking the yoga pose with perfection.

"One of my biggest fitness rules is, holiday or no holiday, workout shouldn't stop. Find some time to squeeze some sort of workout in your schedule. On that note, here's

In the post, she also shared tips with fitness enthusiasts regarding how to nail the pose.

Malaika keeps sharing pictures of yoga postures that she performs every week. Last Monday, she had shared a photo that has her performing the Upward Dog or Urdhva Mukha Svanasana.

Grylls was clearly also impressed

by PM Modi's vision of making India a cleaner place to live in.

"It was a privilege to hear his vision of how he wants to clean up India and for India to lead the way in trying to combat climate change," he said.

Modi's episode of "Man vs Wild" was shot at Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand. In the show, he trekked the wild terrain, crossed a river in a makeshift raft and shared stories of the past -- especially of the time he spent two years of his life in the Himalayas in search of God. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

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Indian News Queensland | MIGRATION

Q&A session with our migration expert Question 1: Lin M I am Lin from India, presently working as electrical engineer in a reputed firm in the Middle East with more than 14 years' experience. My primary professional qualification is Diploma in Electrical Engineering, and recently I also completed my graduation by distance education.

I have attached my detailed CV and copies of my certificates. Please advise me to get the Australian PR. Ans: We have gone through your CV. You need to get positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia as a professional engineer. Engineers Australia may not consider your graduation obtained from distance education as an accredited qualification. For non-accredited qualification, please go through EA pathway for skills assessment. We have to make sure your qualification is acceptable, and then only skills assessment is possible. We would advise your prospects only after receiving positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia.

Question 2: S K Philip I am presently working as an accounts manager in India, having

previous experience as finance manager for five years. My wife is a nursing graduate having two years' experience in India. We have attached both our CVs. Please advise.

Ans: We have gone through both the CVs. The possible nominated occupation in your case, Finance Manager, is not in the main skilled occupation list for independent migration. However, there is remote chance for state migration or employer sponsored migration in your case. To get employer sponsored migration, you must get an employment offer from a prospective employer in Australia.

Regarding your partner, if she gets OET -350 each for all modules (or equivalent in other forms of English tests), she might have a chance to get registration as a RN in Australia, improving her chance for migration as the main applicant.

Question 3: E P Abraham I have Diploma in Accounts and Diploma in SAP from Kerala. I have been working as an accountant since 2013 in Kerala. Do I stand

Send all your queries and doubts on migration to us on:

info@indiannewsqld.com.au

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any chance to migrate Australia?

Ans: With your current qualification and experience, it is a bit hard to migrate to Australia as an accountant. We advise doing Accounting graduation and try for more options thereafter. You can try for student visa for higher studies in Accounting in Australia, which would make your options much easier. However, you should note the Accountant occupation needs the applicants to score top point scores to be considered for invitation. On December 11, 2019 invitation session, the points hit 100 for the main applicant to get invitation.

Question 4: Abhilash K P I am on a 457 visa since 2018.

Before this, I was on another 457 visa in a different occupation from 2014-17. I have completed two years of employment. Am I eligible for PR? Ans: We have gone through all information provided. At this stage, you are not eligible for employer sponsored PR under Temporary

Resident Transition stream. There is a requirement that you should complete three years on current employment under the 457 visa granted in 2018. As your previous occupation was different, and with another employer, you could not claim that period.

Also, you may not get required points for point-based skilled migration without better score in English test and without partner’s points, provided she is qualified and eligible to claim points. We advise staying with the employer for three years and get employer nomination for permanent residency.

Question 5: J Jose I would like to assess my possibility of getting 491 visa. I am currently on 482 visa and working under Aged Care as a registered nurse for a month. 482 visa was granted only for two years. I have seven years of experience as a registered nurse in India and Kuwait (skill assessment completed by ANMAC). I completed my 3-year Diploma in Nursing in India in 2004 and completed a Bachelor of Nursing

PRATHAP LAKSHMANAN MA, LLB, LLM, GradDipLP (Lawyer & Migration Agent / Qualified Education Agent Counsellor) TN Lawyers & Immigration Consultants

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Solicitor Prathap Lakshmanan (conversion programme) in Australia in 2008. My aim is to get 491 visa.

Ans: Your English test score is not at the competent level. Without eligible English language test score, you can not apply for 491. Also, your skills assessment expired in December 2019. Both requirements must be satisfied before initiating the application for skilled migration. You should be eligible for state sponsorship provided you satisfy both requirements we just mentioned.

Email: info@tnlawyers.com.au Web: www.tnlawyers.com.au Skype: prathap.tnmc

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Indian News Queensland | BOOKS AND LITERATURE

India to be guest country Twinkle Khanna's at Paris Book Fair 2020 book wins at 17th Crossword awards

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Around 15 Indian publishers and 30 authors from most Indian languages, will be invited to Paris to meet French readers and participate in events, talk and debates (Courtesy - The Statesman)

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ndia is slated to be the guest country at the Paris book fair -- Livre Paris -- in March, third time after 2002 and 2007.

As part of a reciprocal invitation, France will be the guest of honour at the New Delhi World Book Fair in 2022.

"We don't hear the voices of India enough. The French don't know Indian literature enough. This effort will try to represent the vastness and depth of Indian literature in France," said Bertrand de Hartingh, Counsellor for Education, Science and Culture, Embassy of France, and Director of the French Institute

in India.

Around 15 Indian publishers and 30 leading and budding Indian authors from most Indian languages, will be invited to Paris to meet French readers and participate in events, talk and debates.

"Livre Paris will aim at creating a special 'Indian moment' in France, with cultural and lecture side programmes in libraries, bookshops and cultural landmarks in Paris and other cities in France."

The Paris Book Fair, dubbed Europe's most important literary and publishing appointment, will be a showcase of the country's

new authors, works and the large publishing industry.

France is keen to engage with India in the publishing sector in all its diversity, through translations, publishing incentives, literary exchanges and more, the French spokesperson said.

The Indian contingent at the fair will be represented by the iconic Oxford Bookstore pavilion led

by Priti Paul, Apeejay Surrendra Group. The partner is National Book Trust, while the India pavilion will be designed by the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad.

ollywood actress Twinkle Khanna's fiction novel 'Pyjamas are Forgiving' has won the Crossword Book Award (Popular) for Fiction for last year.

Speaking on January 14 in Mumbai at the 17th edition of Crossword Book Awards, an evening of celebrating literature and authors who made a mark in the year gone by, she said: "Writers need to have an inflated sense of self worth to feel that their work is worthy of someone else's attention and then look at their work objectively. Listen to yourself, create your suggestions and incorporate them."

Khanna's novel is narrated by Anshu, a middle-aged woman suffering from a sleep disorder.

Chiragh Oberoi, CEO, Crossword Bookstore said, "The Crossword Book Awards is a platform that aims to give Indian authors and books a launch pad to promote themselves in addition to recognising good writing. At Crossword Bookstores, our endeavour is to constantly bring forth avenues to engage people with diverse literature that appeals to their reading habits. We're extremely

proud to give writers- young and seasoned alike, a platform to express themselves and further the practice of literature as self-expression."

The jury of twelve members included author Janice Pariat, literary critic Somak Ghoshal, culture editor Vivek Tejuja, writer and blogger Meenakshi Reddy Madhavan and Rohan Narayana Murty, founder of Murty Classical Library, who had selected the winners in the areas of fiction, nonfiction, Indian language translation, and children's writing.

The Sting that Failed to Make Headlines

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he pitfalls of being a budding journalist are many. The paths journalists tread are replete with pits, and one is always in danger of falling into one. A bigger danger is that no one will extend a helping hand to pull you out.

In the beginning of my journalism career, I had the opportunity to work at a local newspaper as a reporter. I was occupying a temporary position. Initially, I was doing only the routine stories.

One day, however, the chief reporter called two of us to his chamber. “What if you find your byline on the front page of tomorrow’s edition,” he asked probingly. I looked askance at him.

Finally, he divulged his plan that was to catapult us to the dizzy heights of journalism.

“Both of you will do a sting operation. How and where, I will let you know. Now, are you game?” he asked. “Yes, sir,” we said in unison. “Very well, I will call you

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in the afternoon.” He left us both thrilled and scared at the prospect of what might turn out to be a misadventure.

police station in Chandigarh, who was alleged to be very ill-mannered and corrupt. “We are to go there as friends and tell them that

In the afternoon my phone rang.

My fellow reporter was at the other end. “Hey, where are you?” she demanded. “I am at a conference,” I said innocently.

“Come as fast as you can to meet me near the Rose Garden,” she was breathless.

However, what followed left both of us dumbfounded.

When we approached the police, they turned out to be very friendly.

When we insisted on seeing the SHO, we were told he was away for an important departmental meeting.

When I reached the garden she was already pacing up and down anxiously awaiting my arrival. “So what is the plan?” I enquired of her.

She told me of the plan which was to expose the station house officer (SHO) of a certain

someone has stolen my handbag which has my identity card, some cash and other valuables. Our aim should be to meet the SHO and request him to nab the culprits at the earliest. If he misbehaves with us and asks for a bribe to register the case, we have our story,” she explained.

After waiting for the ‘protagonist’ for three hours, Sting that failed

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he finally arrived. A constable showed us to his room. During our conversation, he manifested no signs of irritation, ill-temper or anger, and did not resort to any of his much-awaited verbal assault. His pleasing countenance, despite repeated provocation from us, added to our discomfiture. This meant we lost a front-page story.

He even offered us a cup of tea and registered the case with the assurance the case would be dealt with expeditiously. By then four hours had passed. The worried chief reporter sent a young reporter to fetch us from the police station.

“Do you have a story?” the chief reporter asked wryly when we were in the newsroom that night. “I am sorry, sir. But how could the SHO be so unusually polite today?” I said. “That’s why you are a cub reporter, people can sniff you out,” he explained even as the whole room burst into laughter.

By Devashish Chakraborty

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Indian News Queensland | ENTERTAINMENT

Indian Movies Coming Soon '83'

Love Aaj Kal 2

RELEASE DATE: 14 February, 2020

Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Director: Imtiaz Ali Cast: Kartik Aaryan, Sara Ali Khan, Randeep Hooda

Sooryavanshi

Release Date: 10 April, 2020 Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Producer: Reliance Entertainment, Kabir Khan Films

Baaghi 3

Director: Kabir Khan Cast: Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Tahir Raj Bhasin, Harrdy Sandhu, Ammy Virk, Boman Irani Synopsis: The film tells the story of India's incredible 1983 Cricket World Cup victory.

Release Date: 27 March, 2020

Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Producer: Reliance, Rohit Shetty Films And Dharma Productions Director: Rohit Shetty Cast: Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Anupam Kher Sooryavanshi is an upcoming action film directed by Rohit Shetty and produced by Shetty and Karan Johar under their banner of Rohit Shetty Picturez and Dharma Productions respectively, in association with Reliance Entertainment and Cape Of Good Films.

More scenes to be added to Sarileru Neekevvaru

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arileru Neekevvaru has become a box office hit as the makers are earning some big money on a daily basis. Now, the film has become the biggest hit in Mahesh Babu’s career.

Recently the makers of the movie announced that some more scenes in the film will be added soon. Anil Ravipudi said that the film is seeing a repeat audience at the theaters after a long time.

Amala Paul to play Parveen Babi in web series

Release Date: 6 March, 2020 Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Producer: Sajid Nadiadwala Director: Ahmed Khan Cast: Tiger Shroff, Riteish Deshmukh, Shraddha Kapoor Synopsis: Baaghi 3 is an upcoming action thriller directed

by Ahmed Khan. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and distributed by Fox Star Studios, it is a spiritual sequel to Baaghi and Baaghi 2. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

P

opular actress Amala Paul, who has acted in some big movies in Telugu and Tamil, is all set to start her innings in Hindi entertainment.

The news is that she is doing so on a digital platform. She is going to play the role of the seventies Bollywood star Parveen Babi in a web series produced by Bollywood’s famous names Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt under their banner Vishesh Films.

It is known that Mahesh Bhatt had a relationship with the actress who started suffering from mental illness even when she had reached the top of her career.

Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt had announced recently that he would be presenting a story that dealt with his relationship with the actress who suffered from schizophrenia. It seems he is all set to feature Amala to play the role in the series.

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Rajinikanth sets record with Darbar

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uperstar Rajinikanth has finally achieved the distinction of setting a record never achieved by any South Indian film star. Recently his movie

Darbar has finally notched up a solid Rs 100-crore box office collection.

This has made Rajinikanth the only South Indian hero to have five Rs 100-crore movies.

His earlier movies to enter the Rs 100-crore club were Enthiran (Robot), Kabali, 2.0 and Petta (Peta in Telugu), besides Darbar.

Venkatesh starts shoot for 'Asuran' Telugu remake

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outhern superstar Venkatesh has begun shooting for the upcoming Telugu revenge thriller "Naarappa", a remake of Dhanush-starrer Tamil blockbuster "Asuran". The film went on the floors on Jan 22 in Anantpur.

"Naarappa" will see Venkatesh play a character across two decades. In the present-day portions, he plays a much-older version of the character, with grownup kids. In flashback, he www.indiannewsqld.com.au

essays the younger version of his character.

While Venkatesh will reprise Dhanush's role from the original, Priyamani will slip into the shoes of Manju Warrier's character from "Asuran". Mani Sharma has been roped in to compose music.

Last seen on screen in "Venky Mama", Venkatesh is rumoured to be shedding weight to play the young version of his own character.

Based on the popular Tamil novel "Vekkai", the Tamil original was a blockbuster on release last year, with over Rs 100 crore in gross earnings.

Directed by Vetrimaaran, the film is the violent revenge story of a father, who avenges the ruthless murder of his elder son. The film features Dhanush in dual roles, playing his character over two generations.

The film is bankrolled by Suresh Productions and V Creations.

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Fans delighted over Mahesh Babu selecting Thaman

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ith the news circulating that Thaman will be scoring music for the new film of Mahesh Babu, which will be directed by Vamsi Paidipally, the fans are enthused and very happy.

Thaman is said to be in outstanding form as he has given back-to-back

hits. Now that he is joining hands with Mahesh, there is excitement all around. The fans were earlier quite upset with Mahesh repeating DSP for a long time. They are very happy now that a new kind of music will roll out of Thaman this time around. The project is likely to go on floors during the late Indian summer of 2020.

Pawan to rope in Bollywood actor for his next

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ctor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan is staging a silver screen come back with two movies simultaneously. Though Pawan has already started shooting for Pink’s Telugu remake, his much-awaited film under Krish’s direction and

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AM Rathnam production is likely to be launched shortly.

Now, the makers are looking for a popular Bollywood actor to play the main antagonist in the movie.

However, the name of the actor has not been revealed yet. Pawan is said to be romancing two heroines in this as-yet-untitled film.

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Hina Khan's Bollywood debut film's trailer gets 4mn views in a day

Himesh Reshammiya to judge singing talent hunt on radio

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he trailer of Vikram Bhatt's "Hacked", which will launch "Bigg Boss" star Hina Khan in Bollywood, got more than four million views in just over a day.

"You are being watched. If you lose control, you lose everything. #Hacked trailer out now," reads the caption of the trailer that was

published on January 19.

from a 'saans bahu' girl has made

Hina said: "The love we have received has been tremendous and I hope we receive the same kind of support once the film releases in theatres with houseful bookings. I truly feel grateful."

herself into a fashion icon. Hina

The stalker thriller is helmed by Vikram Bhatt.

a good human. What else are we

"She has a unique sense of style and

former "Bigg Boss 11" contestant.

plays a fashion editor in 'Hacked' and when I saw her after 'Bigg Boss', I knew she was it for the role.

A good looking good actor and looking for?" Bhatt said about the

inger-composer Himesh Reshammiya has been roped in to judge the seventh season of the on-air singing talent hunt show "Big Golden Voice".

On the show, Himesh will be seen mentoring as well as judging the participants.

"I have always appreciated talent and tried my best to accord the truly deserving with the right

opportunity. I believe everyone who has the talent has a right to be bestowed upon with a chance, an opportunity and trust me, the right attitude is key to showcase your talent to the world. As a judge, I will be mentoring the participants throughout their journey which includes preparing them for vital combats to present themselves on the world stage," Himesh said.

The show will air on BIG FM.

John Abraham's 'killer look' in 'Mumbai saga' wows social media

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ctor John Abraham makes a killer, all-black style statement in the new still of his upcoming gangster drama "Mumbai Saga",

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and netizens are going gaga over it.

The film's director Sanjay Gupta shared the photo in which the actor is wearing a black outfit and leaning against a powerbike. "You can only

do so much with the styling of your star. What brings the character alive is his ATTITUDE. Which our man John has no shortage of," Gupta captioned it,

A fan wrote: "Another killer look of @TheJohnAbraham from #MumbaiSaga."

Another tweeted: "#JohnAbraham's

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Look in #MumbaiSaga is just Fantastic."

"Mumbai Saga" is set in the 1980s and 1990s. The film is scheduled to release on June 19.

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Kartik Aryan: My 2 roles in 'Love Aaj Kal' are distinctly different

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artik Aryan says playing two distinct characters from different eras in Imtiaz Ali's upcoming film "Love Aaj Kal" was a challenge he enjoyed.

The film shows love stories of two different eras -— the first is set in the late 1980s–early nineties, and unfolds between Raghu and Leena.

The other love story, set in present time, happens between Veer and Zoe. While Kartik plays Raghu and Veer, Sara Ali Khan has been cast as Zoe and Arushi Sharma plays Leena.

"The two roles are distinct, in the way they look, react and relate to people around them. Veer is a modern guy, somewhat geeky and socially awkward. He is sure of what he wants and that sets him apart from the people around him. On the other hand, Raghu represents any teenage boy who has grown up in the nineties. Raghu and Veer are

also different when they are in love," said Kartik.

"Raghu is dramatic and animated as he goes through the excitement and thrill of first love with his high school crush Leena, in the picturesque town of Udaipur. Veer is sure of what he feels for Zoe

but is too inarticulate to express.

Therefore, understanding Raghu and Veer required not only getting into their individual character skins but also an understanding of the time period in which their stories are set," mentioned the actor.

The film is slated to release on February 14.

Indian News Queensland | ENTERTAINMENT

Varun, Shraddha shake a leg with TikTok sensation Baba Jackson

V

arun Dhawan's video of shaking a leg with TikTok star Yuvraj Singh Parihar, popularly known as Baba Jackson, on the neats of the "Muqabala" song, has gone viral.

The video begins with Yuvraj showing a few signature steps of late pop singer Michael Jackson. He also does the popular hook step of "Muqabala" with Varun, Shraddha Kapoor and the other cast members of the forthcoming film "Street Dancer 3D".

Varun took to Instagram and shared a clip of their dance, praising Yuvraj.

"With the one they call @ babajackson2019. The real street dancer Bahut maaza ayaaa keep breaking the internet," Varun wrote.

Yuvraj rose to fame after Hrithik Roshan shared his TikTok video on social media and hailed him as "smoothest air walker". Ever since, Yuvraj's dance moves have been lauded by several Bollywood biggies including Amitabh Bachchan, Raveena Tandon and Remo D'Souza.

Sooraj Barjatya: Will work with Salman again in my Neha Kakkar next directorial gifts Rs 2 lakh to firefighter on 'Indian Idol'

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F

ilmmaker Sooraj Barjatya is scripting his next film right now. He admits that as a storyteller he is spoilt by and obsessed with Bollywood superstar and friend Salman Khan, so it is but obvious that he will work with the actor in his next.

"We are friends for 30 years, and I have directed four films with him.

As a storyteller, I cannot think of anyone else because I am quite www.indiannewsqld.com.au

obsessed with his persona. Initially we collaborated because we are friends, and if you know him you must know that he can do anything for his friends. Back then he was a young, handsome man with a strong screen presence and the audience loved him," Barjatya said.

He continued: "We were successful and we were going ahead with team spirit. But over a period of time he

worked on his craft and proved his versatility as an actor. Now he is an interesting actor for any director to work with. Of course I will work with Salman in my next!"

The duo started collaborating with "Maine Pyar Kiya" in 1989, followed it with "Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!" (1994), "Hum SaathSaath Hain" (1999) and "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo" (2015).

inger Neha Kakkar has gifted Rs 2 lakh to a firefighter on the sets of "Indian Idol" season 11. Neha is one of the judges on the show this season.

Ahead of the 71st Republic Day, a special episode what shot for the popular talent hunt show, where several army men, police personnel, life guards and firefighters were invited as guests. Contestants paid a tribute to them, but it was Neha's noble gesture that became the talking point.

On the episode, the actress promised to give Rs 2 lakh to Bipin Ganatra, who is a fire fighter and has been risking his life for people over the past 40 years. Ganatra is also a Padma Shri recipient.

"The way you have been protecting us without thinking about yourself is such a selfless deed. I cannot

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express how happy I am to meet you. I would like to gift you Rs 2 lakh as a gesture for the years you have spent in protecting us," Neha said.

"Indian Idol" airs on Sony TV. FEBRAURY 2020

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