Indian Weekender 19 May 2017 by Indian Weekender

Amit Tandon

19 MAY2017

promises clean stand-up comedy for the family

Vol. 9 • Issue 9

NZ’s only Kiwi-Indian weekly

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What can community expect from

Labour Party? ¡ SANDEEP SINGH

s Labour Party trying to sell policies to voters in this election year more on philosophical grounds than on competence and sound economic judgement was the main theme of Indian Weekender’s interview with Phil Twyford – an integral part of Andrew Little’s refurbished team in the lead up to the elections. Phil Twyford – the MP for Te Atatu and Labour Party’s spokesperson on housing and Auckland issues categorically denied the charge that their policies were more on rhetoric and less in substance. Earlier over the weekend, Labour Party had held their

annual congress in the election year with some passionate speeches on housing and immigration – the two key issues on which the party is primarily basing their election strategy. Labour leader Andrew Little has promised a clamping down on property speculators, who the party believes are keeping the first home buyers away from the Kiwi dream of owning a house in New Zealand. Similarly, the Party has sought to distance itself away from any racist overtones being seen implied within their immigration policy which calls for culling immigration numbers by “tens of thousands.” “This is a debate about policy, not about immigrants,” said the

“

Indian Weekender spoke to Labour MP for Te Atatu about various issues concerning Indian community

senior Labour MP and party’s spokesperson Grant Robertson. Indian Weekender’s conversation with Phil Twyford is about further demystifying Labour’s promises for the Kiwi-Indian community in this election year.

Phil Twyford – MP for Te Atatu and Labour Party’s spokesperson on housing and Auckland issues

PRAGMATISM VERSUS RHETORIC IWK: Experts believe that one of the key strengths of the Helen Clarke led last Labour government was its ability to resist from selling policy on philosophical grounds. The same cannot be said about the Andrew Little led current team.

IWK: Sure we understand that, but our question is about Andrew Little and his team selling their policies on philosophical grounds rather than substance?

Phil Twyford (PT): I am not sure about that! There is no doubt that Helen Clark was one of thwe most successful Prime Ministers that New Zealand had. Helen Clark crafted a style of governance that under promised and over delivered and worked very hard to deliver economic benefits to the whole community.

PT: We have a philosophy, and the philosophy is to build a more prosperous New Zealand that is fairer and provides an opportunity to everyone to get ahead. And that’s old-fashioned Labour value. We are a party that stands against the privileged. IWK: By privileged does it mean the business community?

PT: No not at all! Look Labour does a better job in managing capitalism than National Party. You ask any small business owner,

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and they do better in a Labour government, and the reason is that we put money in the pockets of ordinary people. They spend it, and the small businesses thrive. We are very pro-business, but we believe that the purpose of an economy is to help people and deliver benefits to people.

extra police officers and we acknowledge that there is nothing important that people feeling safe in streets and home. We think that there needs to be more emphasis on community policing. IWK: But we have not yet heard any passionate speeches from Labour’s top echelons on law and order as we WHY LAW AND ORDER IS NOT AN hear on housing, immigration and IMPORTANT ISSUE? other issues. Is it because it’s only the IWK: We hear so many times from ethnic minorities are perceived to be Labour leaders about housing and mainly affected by the Law and Order infrastructure. So are they main issues and issue? for the Labour Party in this election? PT: I am aware that many of the new PT: Yes, they are the migrant communities main issue in Auckland. particularly in Auckland We have put forward Housing is definitely the who depends on small some pretty bold number one political issue businesses and retail all over the New Zealand. policy reform like operation for their There is a housing crisis! livelihood are facing a building 100,000 Even though National big issue around personal homes for first home Party continues to deny safety. It’s one of the buyers, cracking about the crisis most New reasons that we have down on speculators, Zealanders believe there promised extra 1000 banning foreign is a crisis. The Salvation cops on the beats. Army tells us that we buyers from buying I would agree that we have the worst records existing homes do not talk about this as of homelessness in living much we talk about the memory. Similarly, The housing, but we do not Economist magazine declared the other day talk about many other things as much we talk that New Zealand has unaffordable housing about the housing. in the world. We have to fix this. We have put forward some pretty bold policy IS LABOUR’S IMMIGRATION reform like building 100,000 homes for first POLICY LIKE A “STOP AND GO home buyers, cracking down on speculators, TRAFFIC LIGHTS”? banning foreign buyers from buying existing IWK: Most of the countries have homes and we are going to build thousands to build their infrastructure – be it of state houses instead of selling them. houses or public transport – after the IWK: Why law and order is not one of migrants, and skilled workers have the top election issues for your party? arrived on shore, and not in advance PT: We think it is among the basket of issues anticipating their arrival. Why Labour that we believe are important for everyone. Party is putting so much fuss on this? You will know that we have promised 1000 PT: Because we think that it is having a

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serious impact on the economy and the quality of life for people in the city. Your readers will know that it is very hard at the certain point of the day to drive from one part of Auckland to another part. Estimates are that traffic congestion in Auckland costs anything between $1.5 to 3 billion of lost productivity a year. There is no question that when you put together Auckland’s rapid population growth with the failure to tackle infrastructure, it is a recipe for an overheated housing market. We think that the responsible thing to do is to ease back on immigration level while infrastructure catches up. IWK: So you mean to say Labour Party wants to run this country like a “stop and go traffic light system” Do you think it is a right thing to do? PT: No, I would not describe it as a traffic light system. It’s more about finding the right balance and the right level. IWK: Have you got your numbers on immigration now or is it still “tens of thousands”? PT: We are working on our numbers now and will release a comprehensive policy within next several weeks. IWK: This takes us back to our starting point that Andrew Little’s team is trying to sell policies more on rhetoric and less on substance? PT: No, not all! We have to talk about the numbers as the debate around immigration is around the levels of immigration about what is the right level of immigration for New Zealand. We will put flesh on the bones when we announce our immigration policy. But it’s also a question of philosophy as well. So immigration system should add value for the people who live here now. We don’t want to see a situation such as some employers are abusing the immigration system or allowed to abuse the immigration system by bringing in quite large number of workers who are prepared to work on low wages effectively lower than lower minimum wages in a way that depresses the local wages. IWK: Do we have not any other right way to regulate those employers rather than just cutting down the immigration numbers? PT: There are some industries in New Zealand that have become dependent on high turnover churn of minimum wages workers. So instead of training local staff or paying decent wages so that they can attract local staff, they keep on hiring migrant workers. We don’t want low wage economy. We want to grow wages and prosper the economy, and we can’t do that if people are paid absolute minimum wages.

HAS LABOUR GIVEN UP ON INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS? IWK: Is it fair to say that Labours have given up on international students? PT: No, we see international student industry as very important for New Zealand. But as Andrew Little said that there are part of the industry that are delivering low-value courses that are not in the business of delivering education they are essentially a backdoor pathway to residency, and that’s not good for New Zealand IWK: Sure that’s not good for international students as well. Why is the Labour Party choosing not to regulate those private education providers than acting out against the international students who bring revenue to the country? PT: It’s no good for students, migrants and New Zealand’s reputation for having an education industry that is in part delivering sub-standard courses. We need to fix that. Why should Kiwi-Indians vote for the Labours? IWK: Why should kiwi-Indians vote for the Labour Party in this election? PT: Because the migrant dream is the same as the Labour dream in this country. A Labour-led government will ensure that everyone can get ahead under their hard work.

19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

DAIRY STORE OWNER CONSIDERS ARMING WITH WEAPON AS THE LAST RESORT TO ROBBERY

Kanwaljit Singh (above) and Vikas Dubey (Inset)

¡ SANDEEP SINGH

nother dairy store owner is considering arming himself as a last resort against incidences of robbery. On Tuesday, May 16, a group of four masked men barged into the Kingsford Supermarket in Mangere East at 7:30 p.m. armed with machetes and attacked an unaware staff member who was facing his back towards them leaving him badly injured. Police was quick to arrive with about five police vehicles and one eagle helicopter reaching the shop soon. However, this was not enough to assuage the anxieties of the staff and the shop owner. Kanwaljit Singh, the owner of Kingsford Supermarket, told Indian Weekender “I might consider arming with a weapon as a last resort if we don’t see much change in the overall situation.” Apparently, it was too much for the visibly incensed shop owner who was not only worried about the safety of his injured staff but was also concerned about ensuring that the remaining staff members continue to return to work. “I am already down with two staffs who cannot work as they are on an interim visa and now my third staff member is down with this cowardly attack,” Mr Singh said. “It’s getting very difficult to run our businesses as staff get scared with such kind of attacks,” Mr Dhatt further bemoaned. Later Indian Weekender also spoke with the victim Vikas Dubey, 24, who has been working in the store since last 10 months and was severely shaken with the brazenness of the attack. “I could not see them at all as they were hitting me from behind.

“

Since February, Police in the three Auckland Districts have arrested 68 people and placed them before the courts in relation to aggravated robberies of commercial premises that have occurred in the last three months.

“I went blank immediately after receiving first few blows on my head and neck. “When senses came back to me, I noticed that they had put a machete on my neck and I was scared as hell. I just asked the other staff member to give them whatever they are asking for,” Mr Singh told Indian Weekender recalling the harrowing experience. Detective Senior Sergeant

Albie Alexander of the Counties Manukau Major Crime Team says this was an abhorrent attack which involved an excessive level of violence. “These offenders need to be held accountable. “They are a danger to the public, and this level of violence is totally unacceptable,” Sergeant Alexander further added. Since February, Police in the three Auckland Districts have arrested 68 people and placed them before the courts in relation to aggravated robberies of commercial premises that have occurred in the last three months. Along with catching the offenders and bringing them to account, police have also focused on prevention of these crimes as part of ‘Operation Dukan’. Earlier, police officers across Auckland have visited over 930 business owners and talked to them about this very issue, and offered them safety audits of their premises. However, it’s another matter that despite Police’s hard work community is worried about the recent spurt in aggravated robberies and assault. “I have never expected a incident of this type happening to us in this shop as it is always busy with customers,” a visibly petrified Mr Dubey told Indian Weekender. Meanwhile, the Crime Prevention Group is calling for calm and common senses to prevail. “The Crime Prevention Group team had a meeting with community leaders besides our continuing efforts to calm down the shopkeepers to avoid any escalation of the situation. “We believe in democratic actions and do not support violence,” said Sunny Kaushal, the lead organiser of the group.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Akarana Community Trust open for business, extends support to Indian community

karana Community Trust has recently had its gaming licence renewed by the Department of Internal Affairs, and wants to expand the support it provides to the local Indian community. Akarana is the only gaming trust in New Zealand that gives priority funding to grant recipients who support the Indian community. Akarana is a strong supporter of sports with a high level of Indian participation,and social services that assist Indian migrants. To provide increased community funding, Akarana needs the support of local hospitality venues that host gaming machines. Hospitality venues that are interested in joining Akarana are invited to use the contact details on its website, AkaranaCommunityTrust.co.nz. Akarana’s partners can have confidence that Akarana is a highly professional and compliant organisation. The Department of Internal Affairs has recently completed a comprehensive audit of Akarana’s gaming operations. This was one of the most indepth audits that the Department has undertaken, and satisfied the Department that Akarana complies with all the relevant requirements in the Gambling Act 2003. The Gambling Act contains very strict rules preventing grant recipients providing gratuities, and venue key persons being

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involved in grant decisions. The investigation revealed no wrongdoing apart from a minor indiscretion in 2012 when a complimentary round of golf and some finger food was accepted from a potential grant recipient. In order to promote confidence in Akarana’s current grant practices, Akarana volunteered to undergo a further,full audit of its grant processes and procedures to demonstrate tothe Department thatits current proceduresmeet best practice expectations. To ensure that the welfare of the Indian community remains at the heart of all grant decisions, Akarana has recently appointed Jeet Suchdev as Board Chair. Mr Sachdev has worked tirelessly for more than two decades for the betterment of Indian migrants in Auckland. Mr Sachdev also dedicates time to the community through his role as a Justice of the Peace and received the Queen’s Service Medal (QSM) for his contributions to the community

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Scammers using fake purchase orders to target NZ businesses

olice is warning business owners to be wary that scammers are currently using forged District Health Board invoices to swindle New Zealand businesses out of goods. This is a similar scam to one operating earlier this year, where scammers were sending out fake purchase orders. In this latest scam, using false email addresses, scammers have been sending forged purchase orders to businesses requesting the purchase of various items. While the domain will look similar to the legitimate organisation it will differ slightly with the use of full stops, dashes, or a slight rewording of the original name.

The purchase order request the companies send the goods to a New Zealand freight company, who are then instructed by the scammers to forward the goods on to an overseas address. Police are aware of one shipment from Christchurch that has made it out of the country and is destined for the UK and Asia, but there may have been more incidents. This was not related to the current DHB purchase orders that have been identified. With the co-operation of overseas domain registering companies, several domains have been shut down by Police so far; however it appears that the scammers have now registered a domain similar to a New Zealand DHB.

“We are currently aware of three false District Health Board purchase orders that have been sent to separate New Zealand companies requesting goods for delivery to a freight company” Detective Sergeant Michael Cartwright, New Zealand Police Financial Crime Unit said. “We believe that all District Health Boards could be at risk of being targeted and, due to the large number of suppliers health boards have, we are concerned that this has the possibility to affect a large number of different businesses throughout New Zealand. “Our advice to businesses is that if you receive an email that seems suspicious in terms of format, numbers, language or

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delivery addresses, contact the relevant organisation first to verify if it is actually from them before you send anything out. Poor English in the initial email is a common identifying factor for the scam, and the purchase orders will often have false phone numbers and email addresses won them. “We ask that anyone who believes they may have been a victim of this scam, or anyone who has received a suspicious sounding email, please reports it to us immediately” Detective Sergeant Cartwright said. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of this scam can either contact their local Police Station or report it to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

NEW ZEALAND

19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Immigration Minister allays Indian community’s concerns on the changes in the policy ¡ SANDEEP SINGH

mmigration Minister Michael Woodhouse has spoken with and listened to the concerns of, members of the Indian community on the recent changes in the immigration policy. Speaking this morning to a full house audience in a public meeting organised by National List MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi in association with the Indian Association of New Zealand (IANZ), the Minister spoke eloquently for ninety minutes on stretch addressing major concerns of the community. National MP Dr Parmjeet Parmar was also present at the meeting. While not everyone was happy with the Minister’s inability to comment on their individual visa situations, the Minister did demonstrate a genuine commitment to engage with the community and allay some of the major concerns and widely prevalent myths in the community around immigration. There were many concerned voices in the community about the situation of international students who may miss the Kiwi-dream of getting residency in this country with the new rule being introduced. The Minister acknowledged the concerns of community members and even sympathised with their situation but reiterated the fact that the “days of international students getting residency based on low-skilled jobs are over in New Zealand.” The Minister also assured to look into a request raised by New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA), the parent

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Dr Parmjeet Parmar, Kanwaljit Bakhi, Micheal Woodhouse and Suresh Ramji at Indian Association of New Zealand office in Papatoetoe

Speaking exclusively to Indian Weekender Immigration Minister clarified about some common myths around the recent changes in immigration policy

body for all Indian community organisations in New Zealand – that the department of immigration should be able to accept the “sponsorship letter” issued by them to support the individual application of community members. This has been a long time request from the NZICA from the Department of Immigration. The Minister’s offer to have

a look into this is a “step-forward” for the community. Speaking exclusively to Indian Weekender immediately after the meeting, the Minister further clarified some common myths around the changes in the policy. IWK: Do Indian international students need to live in any kind of fear about the impending changes in the immigration policy? Michael Woodhouse (MW): I don’t think so. International education has been really an important part of our growing economy over the last few years, and I think that’s going to continue. I do think that there is a deliberate strategy by the providers and the government to move from quantity to quality of the students. I think a higher education will help those students who might have aspirations for a pathway to the residence. But it’s not going to be possible for all graduates coming from sub-degree programs at the moment to be able to get that pathway to the residence. I think we need to be honest with them about that. IWK: Community’s concern is that why these sub-degree courses and education providers are not regulated and instead students are being targeted. MW: Well, I think that is a question to be asked to NZQA and the Minister of Tertiary Education. But I know that they [education providers] are being regulated. There are a number of education providers who are offering sub-degree programs that are of concern. Some of them are already closed, and the Immigration New Zealand work with the affected students to make sure that they are able to make the transition to other courses. That is a stressful process I acknowledge. But that is to ensure that the New Zealand reputation of a provider of very high quality of international education is maintained. And I think that’s what we are doing. IWK: The main issue of the students is that many of them have already arrived in New Zealand based on their confidence in what we are calling as “sub-degree” courses to help them secure residency? MW: Well, if that is an expectation that they have then I believe that the New Zealand government has not set it. With an overwhelming demand for residency in Skilled Migrant Category, it was necessary to lift the bar. So the number of points required and now the remuneration threshold that is being consulted on could be a barrier to some of them. I accept that it could affect those who are already here. But I do believe that it is important that they do get better advice before they come to NZ about the likelihood of pathway to the residence. Even in current settings four out of five of international students are not getting residency.

IWK: From what we have heard from you earlier today that there are jobs out of Auckland. Does that mean that students who are worried about new income threshold can move outside Auckland and possibly get jobs paying $49,000 and leading to residency? MW: Certainly, what I know is that for those people who are getting Skilled Migrant Category Residence, the average salary of applicants are higher out of Auckland than it is in Auckland. The other thing is that we incentivise the search for skilled jobs outside of Auckland by offering more points to those who are successful in securing jobs outside Auckland. IWK: Minister you earlier talked about the Parent visa category which is another area of concern for our communities. Should we expect any good news in the Parent visa category soon? MW: Well, unlikely in respect of numbers. Previously there were 5,500 resident category resident visas issued every year, which was reduced to 2000 and because we have a huge number already in the pipeline, we have to suspend it for a year temporarily. When it reopens, then the expectations for the sponsorship by children will be higher, and I am also consulting if the temporary setting for the parents visa could be adjusted to make it more parents friendly. That work is underway, and we might have more to say later in the year.

Kanwaljit Bakshi emphasises importance of community participation in Select Committee process.

arlier National List MP Mr Bakshi emphasised on the significance of engaging constructively in the consultation process. IWK: Mr Bakshi you made a point today that the community is seen making passionate voices after the law is made and not in the actual consultation process? Can you elaborate this for our readers? Kanwaljit Bakshi: It is important to raise our voice when the law is being made, and Select Committee process gives you the opportunity to come and participate in the consultation process. It has been hard for me as I have been trying to raise awareness in the community and on my social media posts about the select committee process. Sometimes community does put in their submission like in the Liquor law changes, and now the Maori law is being changed in how to submerge ashes in the rivers where Wellington Association is taking active participating. This is a time when immigration policies are being reviewed, and the deadline for submitting a request is Sunday, May 21. I encourage your readers and viewers to participate in that process so that their valid concerns could be raised.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Language no barrier for the next Gujarati theatre production ¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

ujarati plays usually have an audience base that is fluent or at least a little versed in Gujarati language but the play Mara Var No Varghodo is set for the pan-Indian audience of Auckland. The play which had three popular shows earlier in 2011 will again deliver its laughter magic in Auckland this month. Directed by acclaimed actor and director Jayesh Bateriwala, the theatrical comes with a message and will entertain its audience until the last minute. Mara Var No Varghodo translates into “My husband’s wedding’s procession”. The play like its name is whimsical and will take the audience on a laughter ride for two hours. The audience for the Gujarati plays in Auckland has multiplied over the years, and more shows on diverse subjects with comedy and drama touch are being produced. “The team is all excited to showcase this evergreen production despite the tsunami of Gujarati productions - both local and overseas, keeping alive the flag of New Zealand’s Indian Theatre artists and giving an opportunity for the new diaspora to see a high quality production,” actor of the play Jayesh Bateriwala said. Renowned names of the Auckland Gujarati theatre such as Sachin Purohit, Chirag and Rupal Solanki, Jayesh Bateriwala and Prashant Belwalkar will be seen playing

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as the characters in the play. “The entertainment, the message and even its characters, as each character has its own personality and style, are something that stays in your hearts and mind long after the curtains have fallen,” an integral character of the play Rupal Solanki said.

Due to high public demand two shows of the play are scheduled so that no one misses out the laughter riot. The 1st show will be held at 7:30 pm on Saturday, May 27 and second show is scheduled for Sunday, May 28 at Green Bay High School Performing Arts Centre, 161 Godley Road, Auckland.

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Mortgage Matters: Siddharth Randeria’s laughter riot Where is the property coming soon to Auckland market headed? ¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

he property market is slowing down but not grinding to a halt. Observing the last few months, the buyers are holding back because of loan-tovalue ratios (LVR) restriction is slowly restricting the eligibility of borrowing. The property investors need to show to the lenders that they have 40% deposit for investment on investment properties in the form of cash or equity from the existing properties. If the property price is slowing down then the value of their property goes down, then the availability of equity of the existing properties goes down as well. Borrowing then becomes harder for the borrower.

What about the first home buyers?

he costs of construction and section prices have also gone up. The asking price for the new houses that are coming to the market has gone up. This makes the situation harder for the new home buyers. The first home buyer can buy up to a maximum of $650,000 in Auckland if they are using their Kiwi Savers and the

government’s contribution and the income ceiling still applies. All the new properties that are coming to the market are selling more than the stipulated price. House buyers will have to wait and see if the government moves the goal post to a higher value and then the price will rise again. Not to mention stitching here and there will not solve the housing woes. The real ground action is required. Given the shortage of houses and new immigrants’ number going up, the actual number of houses being in Auckland built is less than 7000 a year that means ready-to-movein with keys is 50 per cent of the resources consent approved. This is the real issue, and the house price is still not nudging down. It is demand and supply situation and until these issues are solved house price will not come down. Nathan Saminathan is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and an Authorised Financial Adviser (AFA). He is a practising mortgage and insurance broker in New Zealand for the last 29 years. He can be contacted on 0800 630 717 or his Mobile on 021707540.

iddharth Randeria, considered as the King of Gujarati Theatre is set to perform in Auckland on Friday, June 9 at the Victory Convention Centre. With over 80 theatre productions, Siddharth Randeria’s career has spanned over 38 years. Siddharth Randeria stars as a family man in his latest play called ‘Rang Rangeela- Gujjubhai’. His character in the play will be seen as a hard-working man striving to achieve a bigger and better lifestyle. His ambition keeps soaring and with his ambitious goals comes misunderstandings within the family. A series of events occur which leads to a lot of drama and accompanied by confusion and laughter. This play is set to be one of the best plays from the Gujjubhai series. Siddharth’s last show in Auckland in 2015 was a grand success, and the organisers are looking forward to a better footfall at this show. “We are seeing tickets selling fast from different retail outlets across Auckland. I am very positive that this show will smash all records set by previous Gujarati plays,” Prem Upadhyay, organiser of the show under 4U Entertainment NZ said. Siddharth is the only actor to complete over 20,000 live performances on Gujarati Stage. He is not just an actor but has

also donned the director’s cap, is a producer and a writer. He is the only actor to have given record 20 consecutive hits. Siddharth acted and directed the most successful Gujarati theatre production ‘Laage Raho Gujjubhai’ which achieved the rare of feat of crossing 800 performances in a span of 3 years. Apart from performances in Mumbai and through the length and breadth of Gujarat, he has been invited to perform in USA, UK, Australia, East Africa, UAE, Singapore, and Malaysia.

ABOUT THE ORGANISER:

he show ‘Rang RangeelaGujjubhai’ is brought by 4U Entertainment NZ and Krazy Promotions to New Zealand. Prem Upadhyay, the director of 4U Entertainment NZ says that the excitement about the show amongst the Gujarati community of Auckland is tremendous. “We have been getting calls and bookings from Hamilton, Tauranga, Hastings and other parts of North Island. Siddharth Randeria is one of the biggest names of the

Indian ethnic population set to double in next 20 years: Stats NZ

ndian and Chinese ethnic population is set to double in the next 20 year period according to the latest media release by the Stats NZ New Zealand’s population is projected to increase by about 1 million in the next 20 years, with all major ethnic groups growing, Stats NZ said in a media release on Thursday, May 18. The ‘European or Other’ group is projected to drop from 75 percent of the New Zealand’s total population in 2013 to about 66 percent in 2038. “Slower growth in the broad ‘European or Other’ ethnic population is due to its older age structure compared to other ethnic groups,” population statistics senior manager Peter Dolan said. In contrast, ethnic groups with higher birth rates or higher migration gains will increase their share of the population. The

Māori ethnic population is projected to increase from 16 percent of the population in 2013 to 18 percent in 2038. The broad Pacific ethnic group is projected to increase from 8 to 10 percent, and the broad Asian ethnic group from 12 to 22 percent, over the 25-year period. “For the first time we’ve projected some of our smaller ethnic groups to give a better picture of our changing ethnic diversity,” Mr Dolan said. The projections indicate that the Chinese, Indian, Samoan, and Middle Eastern/Latin American/African ethnic shares of New Zealand’s population will increase, with the Chinese and Indian ethnic shares almost doubling. The ethnic populations overlap because people can and do identify with multiple ethnicities. As a result, the ethnic shares sum to more than 100 percent.

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Gujarati play segment, and people are thrilled to witness his another laughter riot,” Mr Upadhyay added. 4U Entertainment NZ was previously known as V3 Events NZ and already has several successful shows to its name. The plays ‘Baa Tane Hu Kya Rakhu’ starring veteran Bollywood actor Rohini Hattangadi and Joke Samrat by veteran comedian Sanjay Goradia received houseful bookings in Auckland. Under the banner, Bollywood Desi Knight at Iron Bar and Ninja Live in Auckland at Mikano in 2016 too turned out to be a great success. ‘Rang Rangeela- Gujjubhai’ will go live at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 9 at Victory Convention Centre in Auckland. Tickets to the show are available at all major retail outlets in Auckland.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Indian girl found dead in Manurewa ¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

urpreet Kaur, a 26-year old was found dead at her workplace in Manurewa, South Auckland on Wednesday, May 10. Gurpreet worked at Ekvi Tech, a private IT company on Great South Road in Manurewa. According to a reliable source, at around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, her employer found her dead in the workplace with injury marks on her neck. Police was called to the scene, and the body was sent for post-mortem. Police found no evidence of foul play and the case has been referred to the coroner. It is likely that WorkSafe will investigate the case as incident happened at the work place of the deceased. Mrs Kaur had come to New Zealand two years ago on a student visa and completed her diploma from an Industrial Training Institute in Auckland and lived with her husband and mother-in-law. Gurpreet belonged to Balachaur town of SSBS Nagar (Nawanshahr) district, Punjab, India. Kaur’s two elder brothers live in Balachaur, and her father resides in Dubai. Mrs Kaur

Brave Atinder fights back to foil robbery attempt ¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

A Gurpreet Kaur

was married in 2014, and her husband joined her in New Zealand only six months ago. “Her husband and motherin-law are in a state of shock and unable to talk to anyone,” Daljeet Singh from NZ Sikh Society said. As per reliable sources, Gurpreet’s sister who lives in the UK has travelled to Auckland after she got the news of her death. Gurpreet’s funeral will be conducted at Manukau Memorial on Saturday, May 20 at 3:30 p.m.

tertiary student working as a staff at a service station in South Auckland is being widely praised for his bravery after chasing off three armed robbers in the early hours of Sunday, May 14. The brave man identified as Atinder Singh works at the G.A.S station on the Mascot Avenue in Mangere. The CCTV footage appeared on Facebook earlier this week and immediately went viral. The 55-second dramatic footage showed Mr Singh standing outside the station when the first offender approached from behind with a baseball bat. As the offender charged Atinder, he was able to duck and grab the bat from the offender’s hand. Atinder then scared the first offender with his bat which was retracted by his two accomplices in a nearby white sedan. The duo sped their white car towards Atinder missing him almost by an inch. Both the offenders pulled out another rod from the car and hurled on Atinder, but somehow he was able to save himself from getting a blow. The offenders failing to enter the petrol station chose to abandon their

robbery attempt and drove off from the scene. The white sedan used in the robbery attempt is understood to have been stolen. It was later recovered on Wallace Rd in Mangere Bridge on Monday, May 15, Detective Senior Sergeant Albie Alexander confirmed. The forensic team is investigating the prints in the car and the weapons recovered. Atinder is being praised for his courageous act that foiled a robbery attempt at the petrol station. He is unhurt and has been given a week’s holiday after the incident. “I did what was needed at that moment, and I am glad that my workplace was saved,” Atinder told Indian Weekender. The owner of the petrol station Ms Raj Kaur said that it was the first robbery attempt at her store in the last nine years. The last few months have seen a spate of aggravated robberies in the whole of New Zealand, especially central and south Auckland. Police has asked anyone with any information on this incident to contact the Counties Manukau Major Crime Team on 09 261 1300.

NEW ZEALAND

19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Auckland segment of Bihar-Jharkhand Sabha Milan Australia and New Zealand launched ¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

ommunity members belonging to the Bihar and Jharkhand states of India gathered on Saturday, May 13 at Sangam Indian Restaurant in Kumeu to launch the Auckland chapter of the two states. The Bihar-Jharkhand Sabha Milan of Australia and New Zealand (BJSM) aims to bring together the people from the two northern states of India in New Zealand and celebrate the cultural diversity of India. BJSM was founded by Mr Sanjay Pandey of Australia in 1994. BJSM has got chapters in all the Australian states and New Zealand. Mr Sanjeev Prasad, a prominent businessman and a former official of the High Commission of India, in Wellington, presided over the meeting. In his inaugural address to the members, he accentuated the contribution of people from Bihar and Jharkhand to the success of India and proving their worth in various countries including New Zealand. “There are good numbers of people from Bihar and Jharkhand who are doing extremely well in their profession in New Zealand,” Mr Prasad added. Attended by 30 Bihar-Jharkhand non-residents living in North

“

(From left) Office bearers Rajnish Rai, Birendra Mishra (Chairperson), Arati Prasad and Rakesh Jaiswal

There are good numbers of people from Bihar and Jharkhand who are doing extremely well in their profession in New Zealand,”

Island, the event was supported by Bihar Foundation, the recognised body of the Bihar government. Ms Ragini Sinha, the chairperson of the Bihar Foundation NZ, addressed and commended the

efforts of the new members of the Sabha. She welcomed the formation of this Sabha and assured full cooperation from the Bihar Foundation. “We should increase the number of members of this group, there are much more people from Bihar and Jharkhand residing in New Zealand, and we should ask them to join BJSM and Bihar Foundation,” Ms Sinha said. The event commenced with electing the Chairperson of the Sabha, Mr Birendra Mishra, an IITian, a civil engineer in Auckland. Arati Prasad was elected as the Cultural Secretary, Mr Rajnish Rai, Secretary for Public Relations, and Mr Rakesh Jaiswal as the treasurer of the Sabha. Members of the Bihar and

Budget 2017: $60 million more for Pharmac Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

National List MP

ational believes New Zealanders deserve access to high-quality healthcare. That’s why this Government is investing an extra $60 million in Pharmac over the next four years taking their budget to a record $870 million for 2017/18. This means the Government has increased Pharmac’s budget by $220 million since 2008. The increase in funding will allow the government agency to provide more New Zealanders with access to new medicines. It will also provide Pharmac with more options on new medicines it can fund. Pharmac’s model for increasing subsidised medicines and treatments for New Zealanders is world class. In the last two years over 109,000 New Zealanders have benefited from 62 new and widened access subsidised medicines. Around 3.5 million New Zealanders receive a funded medicine each year – 100,000 more than in 2013/14. From July 1, 2017, over 33,000 New Zealanders will benefit directly from Pharmac’s latest funding proposals. The new package of medicine includes antiinfective drugs, earlier access to four HIV antiretrovirals, a medicine to benefit

5000 children with neurodevelopmental disorders, and new medicines for cancer and cardiovascular conditions. National is committed to delivering better, sooner, more convenient healthcare. Since 2007/2008, around 820,000 New Zealanders have benefited from 414 new and widened access medicines. This new package proves that the Government and Pharmac are delivering more medicines for more New Zealanders on an ongoing basis. Our dedicated health workforce is also making a difference to the lives of New Zealanders. As of 31 March 2017, there were almost 8,200 doctor full-time-equivalents and nearly 23,000 nurse full-time equivalents employed by DHBs. In total, the number of doctors and nurses working in DHBs across the country has increased by over 6,900 since 2008 - an increase of over 28 per cent. New Zealanders need a health workforce that is well equipped to handle current and future demands. More doctors and nurses in our DHBs will ensure faster treatment and better experiences for patients and their families.

Jharkhand community travelled from Tauranga, Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland to attend the inaugural event. The Sabha plans to organise different events for the Bihar and Jharkhand community in New Zealand such as Diwali, Chhatth Puja, Holi, Bihar Diwas, Independence Day, Buddha and Mahavir Jayanti amongst other community festivals and national events. While appreciating the contribution of the people of Bihar and Jharkhand in New Zealand, Mr Mishra assured his all possible efforts in making the BiharJharkhand Sabha, a grand success in New Zealand. “We have proved our worth and made a name for ourselves in the whole world; we should try to showcase our culture to the New Zealanders now, using this Sabha as a platform,” Mr Mishra said. One of the important goals of the Sabha is also to contribute towards the betterment of the New Zealand society and contribute towards the development of the villages and schools in the state of Bihar and Jharkhand. “We owe an obligation to our home state Bihar and Jharkhand, and we should try to contribute financially to the development of villages and schools,” Mr Rai added.

The very first goal of the group is to look for an opportunity to put a stall at the Auckland Diwali celebrations held on Queen Street in Auckland CBD. “We need to showcase the culture and delicacies of BiharJharkhand, Ms Arati Prasad, the Cultural Secretary said. Mr Rakesh Jaiswal expressed his desire make yoga more popular in New Zealand as it has its roots in Bihar, the land of Buddha. He also suggested building a Sun Temple in New Zealand as the festival of Chhatt is dedicated to Surya Dev. “We also need to raise fund and donate to help build toilets, schools and provide amenities in Bihar and Jharkhand. We have the ability to bring significant changes back in our hometowns by making small yet collective contributions here,” Mr Jaiswal said. The members also iterated that the Bihar and Jharkhand Sabha should be incorporated as a society as the Sabha would hold a ceremony in collaboration with Bihar Foundation to honour any dignitaries from Bihar and Jharkhand on their official visit to New Zealand. The Sabha will schedule a meeting soon to discuss strategies and plan the activities for the upcoming national and cultural festivals of India in New Zealand.

Police sponsor Race Unity Speech Awards 2017 - what makes someone a Kiwi ¡ IWK BUREAU

tudents from around the country have asked Kiwis to stand up against racism and reconsider what it means to be a New Zealander. On Saturday night, May 13, Tauawhi Bonilla of Te Aute College won the National Final of the 2017 Race Unity Speech Awards. Mr Bonilla challenged our idea of what makes someone a ‘kiwi’...”We are all the same, but all unique at the same time, our unity empowers us, but our diversity strengthens us,” he said. Police are, once again, a very proud principal sponsor of the event and Assistant Commissioner Wally Haumaha was Chief Judge on the panel for National Finals. Assistant Commissioner Wally Haumaha, says ‘Congratulations to the winner Tauawhi Bonilla, but also to all who have competed at all levels of the competition; their conversations are important in strengthening unity and overcoming discrimination of all forms,” he said. The 2017 Race Unity Speech Awards were contested by over 150 high school students from 14 different regions of New Zealand. Runner up to the winner, George Sabonadiere of Logan Park High School in Dunedin spoke of racism as having to be fought with empathy and understanding. The Race Unity Speech Awards were initiated by the Baha’i Community in 2001, following the death of race relations activist Hedi Moani.

Race Unity Speech Award Winner 2017 Tauawhi Bonilla

Immediately before the National Finals, an all-day conference was attended by the finalists and semi-finalists, and their supporters. The conference was opened by New Plymouth Mayor and race relations advocate Andrew Judd who spoke about his own efforts as a “recovering racist”. Other sponsors of the event other than the New Zealand Police, were the Human Rights Commission, the Office of Ethnic Communities, and the Hedi Moani Charitable Trust.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Checkmate Fonterra: Indian dairy giant Amul set to sponsor Black Caps

¡ IWK BUREAU

ujarat based dairy giant Amul will be the prime sponsor of the New Zealand cricket team in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy that starts on June 1 in England. “Amul will be the principal sponsors of the New Zealand cricket team for the upcoming Champions Trophy,” R.S. Sodhi, managing director of Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation announced at a press conference in Kolkata.

Black Caps Tim Southee (left), Colin de Grandhomme and Trent Boult with R.S. Sodhi, managing director of Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation.

The Blackcaps, who are in the same group with Australia, England and Bangladesh in the Champion’s trophy, would sport a new jersey with the Amul logo on its chest during the tournament. Expressing his excitement about the new tie-up, James Wear, the commercial director of New Zealand Cricket, said they were keen on a long-term partnership with GCMMF. “We, on behalf of New Zealand Cricket are very excited. “We are looking towards at least a couple of months and hopefully a long term partnership,” Mr Wear said with Kiwi players Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Colin De Grandhomme by his side.

Get the latest buzz @ www.iwk.co.nz

Community football tournament: Opportunities for community get together ¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

he New Zealand Muslim Sports Association successfully hosted its biannual Unity Cup at Rangamai Park in East Tamaki on Sunday, May 14. The Madarsa tournament hosted football games for the U10, U13, U16 and U18 division teams. The Ma’natul Islam team won the U10 and U13 football finals defeating the Waikato and the Al-noor Trust teams. In the U18 division Team, Mangere defeated Onehunga while the U16 Hunters Corner team were defeated at the Onehunga team. The tournament also hosted Quran recitation and Naa’t competition and made

fun activity arrangements for the children. “The concept behind the event is to get the families, and community members spare some time of their busy schedules for their children and their outdoor sporting interests,” organiser of the event Mr Shaheem Rah’mani said. “Families and fans of the football teams came to support the players and raised their spirits,” Mr Rah’mani added. The Unity Cup was co-organised with the support of Federation of Islamic Association of New Zealand (FIANZ), the apex body of the Islamic community in New Zealand and was the last activity before Ramadan starts on Saturday, May 27.

A U13 Football team at NZMSA Unity Cup 2017

NEW ZEALAND

19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Everybody is

News-in-brief from South Island

welcome here:

Christchurch Mayor Dr Surinder Tandon, President of Christchurch Multicultural Council welcomes the development, which took three decades to materialise ¡ GAURAV SHARMA

major milestone was achieved in Christchurch last week with the launch of the Christchurch Multicultural Strategy - Our Future Together. The City’s Mayor, Lianne Dalziel, while launching the Strategy on May 13 at Rehua Marae, noted, “The Council has a leadership role in making Christchurch a city where diversity is welcomed and celebrated. This Strategy outlines what the Council can do in terms of improving service delivery, upskilling the internal organisation and developing authentic relationships to achieve the outcome of a diverse, inclusive and welcoming city. This Strategy acknowledges Ngāi Tahu are mana whenua —

the indigenous people Christchurch of our area in is a unique city of Christchurch, and NZ, with over 180 ethnic that Te Tiriti groups living here. It is the o Waitangi is the foundation first big city to have developed Dr Surinder Tandon addressing the gathering at the launch of Christchurch Multicultural Strategy on May 13 such a complete and relevant document of Dr Surinder us for achieving this important city/district councils to develop New Zealand. multicultural strategy. Today is a memorable day, a moment a multicultural strategy for their T a n d o n , milestone,” he said. With today’s of pride for all of us for President of launch, the Mr Tandon also acknowledged respective areas. We look forward achieving this important C h r i s t c h u r c h the contributions of former to working with the City Council City is saying milestone M u l t i c u l t u r a l members and supporters for the on the development of an action that everybody is Council, who was one culturally and linguistically diverse plan for the implementation of welcome here.” of the attendees, mentioned (CALD) communities in enhancing the multicultural strategy. We The official launch that the strategy development work the City’s multiculturalism, have already identified some key function was attended by started over thirty years ago. including the first Indian City areas requiring education and community leaders, city councillors, Councillor in Christchurch late Mr training, such as Treaty-based “Christchurch is a unique city of Ngāi Tahu representatives, and multiculturalism, barriers to NZ, with over 180 ethnic groups Ishwar Ganda. mayors from other councils adoption of multiculturalism, and living here. It is the first big city to across Canterbury. With the “Our National Federation is have developed such a complete very excited with Christchurch cultural competency, for which Strategy in place, the Council will and relevant multicultural having its multicultural strategy we are keen to work with the City monitor its implementation, and strategy. Today is a memorable and is now encouraging other Council and other groups,” Mr publish an annual Diversity and day, a moment of pride for all of Inclusion report. regional multicultural councils and Tandon concluded.

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Indian community leader Indian Social and Cultural Club launches the International starts preparation for South Student Support Network Island’s biggest-ever Diwali

The Club organised its meet, greet and sangeet event last weekend, called ISCC Connects

¡ GAURAV SHARMA

his is an initiative by Mr Manjit Singh, who came to Christchurch in 2003 after spending three years in Japan. Mr. Singh contested for community board and city council positions from the City’s Hornby Ward. “Recent deportation of Indian students in Auckland is a warning sign. I am impelled to take action and start this initiative so that such incidents are not repeated in Christchurch,” he said. The plight of international students in New Zealand, with many coming from India, has been in the news recently for all the wrong reasons. What is missing in all this, is a forum for open, transparent, honest and frank discussion. “That’s why we are launching this Network, which is aimed at fulfilling that very need and provide a platform to international students for discussing the several difficulties they face here. “Be it financial, professional, or mental. I hope that sharing personal and professional experiences and stress with others, will help the affected and future students in making informed decisions in future,” informed Mr Singh. The Network, which has its own Facebook page, will be collating the major issues that international students face while trying to cope up with life in Aotearoa. “For this, we are trying to get several PTEs on board and will work towards raising awareness about

Fun games at ISCC Connects 2017 held on May 13

¡ GAURAV SHARMA

H Mr Manjit Singh,

the Network in their campuses. Once we have a better understanding of the problems, we will be connecting the affected students with professionals who can aid them with solutions. “The Network will make use of all the social media channels to start with, and very soon, we will move on to one-to-one interactions, and coffee club meetings,” Mr Singh added.

KANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI

LIST MP BASED IN MANUKAU EAST KANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI A

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Bakshi.mp@parliament.govt.nz facebook.com/Bakshiks @bakshiks

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ristchurch-based community organisation – Indian Social and Cultural Club (ISCC), which is celebrating 20 years of existence this year, has launched its preparation for the South Island’s biggest Diwali festival ever. This came out at ‘ISCC Connects 2017 meet, greet and Sangeet’, an informal funfilled evening attended by over a hundred people, and put together by Vice President of ISCC Mr Amit Raut. Thomas Shaji Kurian, who is the ISCCin-charge of Christchurch Diwali this year, informed, “With ISCC Connects, we have started the preparations for our flagship Diwali event this year. Over the years, Christchurch Diwali

festival has grown considerably and is today an iconic event enjoyed by the wider community. To assist with this mega production, we want participation from the broader professional community and are on the lookout for people who can help with graphic designing, theming and, audio-visual, among others.” Meanwhile, the Connects event had games of all sorts including a balloon run for kids, balloon dancing for adults, Antakshari, and Bollywood quiz, followed by dinner. Manish Bansal, Event Coordinator of ISCC, visibly upbeat on the turnout added, “It’s great to see so many people. Even National Party’s MP Jo Hayes was here earlier to extend her wishes to the community.”

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‘Girmit descendents have now found dignity, respect, equality’

espect, dignity and equality are what the Girmitiyas and their descendants have been looking for in Fiji since their arrival in 1879. Officiating at the Girmit Remembrance Day for women at the Fiji Museum last night, the Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said these three values were once a missing link for Girmitiyas and their descendants. The Attorney-General said the indentured labourers wanted equality and today they had gained that respect and equality as they were now called Fijians constitutionally and legally. He said last night’s gathering was evident enough and already a testimony that they have gained this and it was a huge shift from what happened on May 14, 1879 for both men and women of the Girmitiyas. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said cheap labour was provided when the Girmit arrived and help build the economic base of Fiji. However, with this they faced malnutrition, lives were lost and they suffered from emotional and psychological stress. However, women were the backbone and strength in a family, they also worked amongst men in the sugarcane field and through their perseverance they encouraged their children to get educated. Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said education became a huge focus and they began to change their Girmit mindset. He said there were many stories of the Girmitiyas and one of them included how women gave birth, took their children to

Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum during the Girmit Remembrance Day celebration at the Suva Museum on May14, 2017.

The Attorney-General said sugarcane plantations and how they there were many untold stories of had a high mortality rate. the Girmitiyas and people However, he said “In would be surprised the reality for any those days to find a lot of country was for women had no untold stories. people to be access to better health Meanwhile, a mature enough facilities to deliver their and focus and babies and neither had they book written by Dr Mohit Prasad build a strong enjoyed the technology called ‘Girmit: future and to and assistance that you The Indentureda actually come have access General History’ was to grips with to today.” launched at the event. their past. Be thankful for what you He said it was important for a person to recognise have today: Rupan their history, recognise those who Mothers who were descendants contributed to their history without of women during the Girmit period politicising it. were urged to be thankful for what Unfortunately in Fiji for decades they have today. because the Girmit system was “While we remember those part of the colonial system, women during Girmit period I the educational system and the would like to urge all Fijian mothers syllabus actually clouded the issues to be strengthened by their stories faced by the Girmitiyas and their of struggle and be thankful for what descendants. you have today,” chief guest at the

Girmitiya women celebrated

irmitiya women whose arrival in Fiji made a huge impact on the country were celebrated across the country on a day when mothers across the world were also honoured. While remembering the women at a celebration in Ba yesterday, Minister for Local Government, Housing, Environment and Infrastructure and Transport Parveen Kumar said Girmitiya women laid the foundation for Fijians of Indian descent when they arrived more than 100 years ago. “In remembering the almost 14,000 Girmitiya women and child brought to Fiji from India, their story is something that we Prema Wati 67, at the Girmit Remembrance Day and Mother?s Day celebration. can only look back and wonder on how they survived and helped lay and developed a strong bond that of them did not have a choice and started from their sea journeys. many did not have the strength the foundation for the Fijians “On land they derived to fight anymore and committed of Indian descent that They communities as part suicide while others suffered abuse.” carry on their legacy,” were exposed of labour gangs He said the women were a strong he said. to violence of all in our sugar reminder of hope and perseverance, “They were kinds but they were cane fields. which all Fijians were proud of. exposed to resilient and developed a “What should The occasion was also celebrated violence of all strong bond that started we remember in Rakiraki and Tavua. kinds but they from their sea journeys most is that many were resilient

Labasa event Rupan said. Businessman Mr Rupan who worked at the Fiji Sugar Corporation in Labasa for 25 years, said the women during the Girmit period played an important role at the Remembrance Day which was held yesterday at Labasa Civic Centre in Labasa. Mr Rupan, the founder of Local Timber and Distributors Limited, said it was important to remember the hardwork, sacrifices, resilience, tolerance as well as brutalities of physical violence borne by women brought into or born into indenture. “In those days women had no access to better health facilities to deliver their babies and neither had they enjoyed the technology and assistance that you have access to today,” he said. Meanwhile, Special Administrator for Labasa and Savusavu Town councils Vijay

Chand said May 14 each year marks the anniversary of the arrival of the first shipload of indentured labourers from India to Fiji, abroad the Leonidas in 1879. “2017 marks the 138th year since the arrival of the first indentured labourers to Fiji,” Mr Chand said. “This year’s Girmit celebration coincides with Mother’s Day. To honour both occasions, local communities supported by municipal councils invited all Fijians to pay respect to all women and girlchild as part of a larger celebrations in their respective centres. The theme for this year celebration is “Remembering women of the Girmit.” 93-year-old Muttamma urged for the respect and importance of parents during a Mother’s Day celebration in Nadi. “We should respect and love our parents and God will bless us abundantly,” she said. Ms Muttamma celebrated the day with other mothers from around Nadi at the Nadi Civic Centre. Her grandparents were Girmitiyas who arrived from Calcutta in India during the Girmit period. Chief guest and retired schoolteacher Shushila Ramesh reminded the children of the families not to ill treat the parents in their homes. “They are the reason we are here today, please daughters, daughter in law respect your mothers and value them, do not ill-treat them and put them into old people home,” Ms Ramesh said. “Value and treat them well while they are still here on earth.

COP23 presidency

ermany is glad to have Fiji's presidency of COP23 later this year. Thomas Meister, the head of division — climate and enviromental policy, sustainable economy in the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin, Germany said this while addressing foreign journalists on Monday, May 15. "We can't compare one country to another as every country has its own diverse features," he said in Berlin. "Climate is an issue that affects every country. Climatic change is a threat to global security." Mr Meister said Tuvalu and Kiribati were affected by the rising sea levels. He said Germany was a champion of climate change issues with the UK and Spain. The Federal Foreign Office in Berlin conducts climate fund projects, with diverse projects worldwide. "The current focus is very much on the Paris Agreement. It has been ratified by 150 countries and the agreement is very much in the headlines," said Mr Meister.

He said 195 countries signed up for the Paris Agreement, which was reached at COP21 in 2015. Asked if Germany will provide further assistance to Fiji for climate change issues apart from the millions it has already given, Mr Meister said their people in Suva were working on a few things. The high level climate change meeting, COP23, will be held in Bonn, Germany in November. Seventeen journalists from different parts of the world are currently attending a climate change training program in Berlin. The training has been organised by Ecologic Institute and coincides with the two-day high level Petersberg Climate Dialogue that will be held in Berlin next week. A delegation from Fiji is also expected at the dialogue.

FIJI

www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Sikhs make Fiji their home, focus on nation building

gtoup of people who arrived in Fiji from Punjab, India, during the colonial period have today culminated into a small but vibrant community focused on nation building. Sikhs were among the earliest group of people who arrived in Fiji from India and as such, have continually helped make strides in the education and farming sector among others. According to the first historical magazine published by the Sikh Association of Fiji in 2013, prominent community member Jogindar Singh Kanwal writes: “It is believed that some Sikhs came to Fiji in the 1890s. “In 1904, a few groups of Sikhs came and settled as sugarcane farmers and later, some Sikh policemen who served in the Hong Kong and Shanghai Police Force were brought by the Colonial administration to work in the Fiji Police Force.” Mr Kanwal also wrote that between 1910 and 1920, young Sikh migrants arrived in Fiji from the Julundur District in Punjab. A majority of Sikhs are said to have arrived between 1920 and 1930. Despite the adversities faced since arriving in Fiji, the Sikh community has thrived and helped in nation building. Although the number of Sikhs has dwindled over the years because of migration, some elderly members of the Sikh community remain in the country they have come to call home. In Lautoka, one of the oldest monuments in the Sugar City remains the Lautoka Gurudwara, a revered symbol for Sikhs in the West. Founded in 1933, the gurudwara has a rich history that has also been marred by tragic events, especially the 1987 coup.

“Our father came from India and my mother was from Fiji.” It was at this time that the family bought some land in Sigatoka and the family stayed there about 20 years. After this, they moved back to Nadi. “After mother passed away my father returned to Punjab and he passed away there. My eldest brother was tasked with dividing land among all brothers. “When my wife passed on, the Votualevu committee told me to go to the gurudwara and it took me one year to make a decision but I also joined the gurudwara in Lautoka then.”

Future plans

Sikhs in Fiji celebrates Baisakhi

Testimonies of former gurudwara executives Dharam Singh was a second generation traveller from Punjab, India. Born in 1936, he travelled to Fiji with his father, the late Mal Singh, and other members of the Sikh community in 1939 when he was three. It wasn’t long before the family moved to Nadi, where his father engaged in sugarcane farming. Mr Singh married Gyan Kaur from Votualevu and moved to Carreras in Votualevu with his family in 1959. “I’ve been living in Nadi for as long as I can remember and my family were all farmers,” the 81-year-old said. “I used to come to the Lautoka gurudwara with my parents and when I grew up I became a part of the committee.” It was after this move that Mr Singh and his fellow administration members faced the brunt of the difficulties of running the Lautoka gurudwara. The most significant incident the committee had to deal with was the 1987 coup, when the gurudwara was

burnt by arsonists. “I was here when the gurudwara was burnt by arsonists at night. All of the things inside the gurudwara were destroyed. “We then called for a meeting on what was to be done and we decided to collect money and rebuild the gurudwara, making it a twostorey structure.” He says members of the committee travelled around Viti Levu at their own expense to collect money for this cause. “We also made a four-flat building from the funds, which is still running to date and funds from there is used to financially support the gurudwara,” he said. Mr Singh was part of the committee for almost 40 years beginning as a committee member, secretary and is now a trustee and lifetime member. Another senior member of the Sikh community is Nadi resident Gyan Singh, 83. “I was born at Votualevu in August, 1934, and since then I was there, I had five brothers and three sisters,” he said.

India look at ways to help Pacific Island countries

he Indian government is looking at high level discussions with local and foreign public and private stakeholders in this month’s two-day conference in Suva. This will be a platform for India to analyse ways it could help 14 countries under the Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC) including Fiji in areas such as transmitting renewable energy and disaster preparedness. The India-Pacific Sustainable Development Conference which is scheduled for May 25 and 26 will be hosted by Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Retired General Vijay Kumar Singh. An organiser, Dr Annapurna Vancheswaran, a senior director for Communication Outreach and Advocacy Unit at The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) at New Delhi in India, said 14 Pacific Island Countries will meet for this for discussions on various issues. “Under the larger narrative of sustainability, the conference will focus on issues such as healthcare, renewable energy interventions, stronger blue economy, financing mechanisms and disaster preparedness, which are of mutual concern to India and the PICs,” Dr Vancheswaran said. The conference

Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Retired General Vijay Kumar Singh.

will facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experience, and initiate public-private partnerships and collaborations for the benefit of all participating countries, she

added. The conference is a forward agenda of the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi for the Forum for India Pacific Island Countries (FIPIC).

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The Lautoka gurudwara caters for almost 900 people in the Western Division, spanning from Sigatoka to Raviravi, Ba. Lautoka Sikh Temple president Bayant Singh says his service in an admininstrative role began as a treasurer in 2010. “For the last two years, I have been president and we have 11 admin presently,” he said. Mr Singh says because of a lack of training institutes and theological colleges to teach Sikhism, youths were not as interested in studying the religion. “No one is showing real interest because a lot of those who were influential members have migrated or they have passed away and their children have gotten educated and migrated elsewhere. We are trying to get them (youths) attached to the gurudwara. At least they need to know the religion and this is the drive we are carrying. “We aren’t sitting here as (adminstrative officers). We have to look after the faith and welfare of the people and how to maintain the respect and the beliefs bestowed on us.”

Indian specialists provide surgery

ore than 20 specialist doctors from India are here to conduct surgical operations at the Colonial War Memorial (CWM) and Lautoka hospitals. Sahyadri Speciality Pacific Hospital Ltd director Manu Munibhargav said Government had signed an agreement with SSPHL. The agreement entails specialised medical services such as neurosurgeries, spine and advanced orthopaedic (joint replacement surgeries), cardiac surgeries (CABG), valve, angioplasty etc). It came into effect in 2012. This time he said they would be performing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgeries for two weeks at CWM Hospital, Suva and joint replacement surgeries at Lautoka Hospital for a week. “We propose to perform spine fixation surgery on 24 May in CWM Hospital, incidentally a patient has developed rectovaginal fistula and specialist doctors from India will perform both the surgeries in CWM Hospital, Suva,” Mr Munibhargav said. He said that these surgeries are not presently performed locally in Fiji. They also proposed to perform valve replacement surgery with tissue valve on patients who are referred from Australia and New Zealand. The cost of an operation according to Mr Munibhargav is $25,000. The cost, he said, was different for the foreigners who came to Fiji for treatment. The cost he said could be a barrier in Fiji, but what the Government had done was made the cost discounted price structure which was affordable for the patients. “The Government cannot pay 100 per cent for the patient treatment; the patient needs to give their contribution.”

Thought of the week

Editorial

Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame: Honouring the best of us

iwi Indian Hall of Fame celebrates those in the community who use their passion to not only achieve individual success in their respective fields of action but also inspire others in our day to day life.

Acknowledging individual success stories that inspire and galvanise others in a society is

a time-tested process in the history of human societies all around the world.

“There are t wo ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.” – Edith Wharton Auckland Weather forecast for the week May 20 - May 26

Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu Fri Cloudy periods. A few showers in the morning 16° 7°

A few Fine with showers light wind clearing to fine. 17° 4°

Partly cloudy with little wind

Partly cloudy, not much wind

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Rain Shower with not light winds much rain 16° 12°

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However, this process of recognition gains immense importance when the process of recognition of individual brilliance and inspirational stories takes place within a migrant community anywhere in the world. It is important to note that throughout human history, migration has been a courageous expression of the individual’s will to overcome adversity and to live a better life. And when migrant societies have to dig deep within themselves to find their day-today heroes, it gives them another opportunity to unite together, which is an important currency for their well-being in their new chosen homes. Societies need role models, and the role models too need some bodies or organisations or an institutionalised recognition process, which can create and celebrate roles models in communities. For a long time, Kiwi-Indian migrant community, which has a history of being present in this beautiful country since last 150 years, was without an institutionalised recognition ceremony to honour the best of us in our communities. In the last five years, Indian Weekender’s Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame has bridged that gap permanently by becoming community’s most anticipated and prestigious awards where the community gets a chance to nominate high-achievers and inspirational personalities amongst us.

This week in New Zealand’s history 20 May 1865 Loss of the City of Dunedin with all hands The paddle steamer City of Dunedin left Wellington at around 5 p.m. on Saturday 20 May, bound for Nelson and then Hokitika. It was never heard from again, and no trace was ever found of Captain James Parker Boyd, his 24 crew and at least 22 passengers.

1995 Waikato-Tainui sign Deed of Settlement with the Crown Waikato–Tainui was the first iwi to reach an historial Treaty of Waitangi settlement with the Crown for injustices going back to the 1860s. The Deed of Settlement included cash and land valued at a total of $170 million.

These awards involve a robust nomination process, which begins at the beginning of the year and continues for full few months to give everyone in a fair chance to chip in the award-selection process. An unspoken guiding principle of this selection and nomination process has been to not limit the focus on any one particular field of human activity – say politics, business, community work, etc. so as to keep everyone’s interest alive in these awards. And the results and feedback so far enunciate that we have succeeded in this endeavour. The awards were initiated in 2013—three years after the birth of Indian Weekender— with a single-minded focus on galvanising the wider Kiwi-Indian community and creating role models in our fast-growing community. Today, with Stats NZ releasing a new report that the Indian ethnic community is all set to double in the next 20 years, the responsibility of producing more success stories and role models is more than ever. The Kiwi-Indian community will need more inspirational personalities to celebrate and galvanise one and all in the community. And Indian Weekender is all set to take that responsibility of creating new idols. This year’s award ceremony is scheduled to be held on June 8, which coincides with the 8th anniversary of our newspaper. Our team behind these awards are committed to raising the bar of the event in its grandeur, entertainment quotient and community engagement, and their efforts so far do not give any reason to doubt their ability to achieve what they are promising. So far, the interest in this award ceremony is intense as all are buzzing with excitement.

1854 Parliament’s first sitting in Auckland It started with a bang – 21 in fact, fired from the guns at Auckland’s Fort Britomart. Once the smoke cleared, New Zealand’s first Parliament was in business. Indian Weekender : Volume 9 Issue 09 Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited Managing Editor: Bhav Dhillon | bhav@indianweekender.co.nz Content Editor: Sandeep Singh | sandeep@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Reporter: Swati Sharma | swati@indianweekender.co.nz Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | rizwan@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Reporter—South Island: Gaurav Sharma Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz Sr Graphics and Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | design@indianweekender.co.nz Accounts and Admin.: 09-6366306 | accounts@indianweekender.co.nz Sales and Distribution: 022 3251630 | sales@indianweekender.co.nz Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher is not responsible for advertisers’ claims as appearing in the publication Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent the views of the team at the Indian Weekender Kiwi Media Publishing Limited - 133A, Level 1, Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland. Printed at Horton Media, Auckland Copyright 2017. Kiwi Media Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved.

www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Symbol of Success: Sodhi S Shines in Scandinavia A

INDIA ABROAD

Guterres appoints Indian to highlevel UN climate change post

dding another feather in cap of Indian community, a Punjab born Ranbir Singh Sodhi recently has shined in Finland, a region of Scandinavia, by retaining a position in Council of Governors third time in a row. It is hard to imagine such an amazing victory where Punjabi community members are negligible and languages in use are Finnish and Swedish. As per Indian media reports, 53 years old Sodhi represents Social Democratic Party and got elected as a ‘valttutettu’ (same as a Member of Legislative Assembly in India) for Council of Governors of Vantaa, a state near the national capital Helsinki. He was born in a town named Dhuri in district Sangrur of Punjab (India) and his father Gurdev Singh and mother Swaran Kaur hails from nearby village Mirheri Sodhi has gained Bachelor degree from Govt. College, Malerkotla; and Master’s Degree

Finland is entirely different than India. People of Finland are very honest and political leaders are always answerable too. He added that he had promised the people for development and betterment of Vantaa and as a

anbir Singh Sodhi

from Punjabi University, Patiala. Around 30 years ago, Sodhi migrated to Finland in 1987 and established night’s clubs business. He actively took part in politics and created a history in 2007 by gaining a seat in Vantaa assembly despite of being a South Asian migrant. Talking to a media person, Sodhi told that election process of

So, Ranbir Sodhi is a torch bearer for the youth who are ambitious to achieve higher goals at foreign lands. It is said that Ambition is the first step to success and The second step is action. result voters gave verdict in favour of him. He said that he has never forgotten nostalgic moments of motherland. So, Ranbir Sodhi is a torch bearer for the youth who are ambitious to achieve higher goals at foreign lands. It is said that Ambition is the first step to success and The second step is action.

ecretary-General Antonio Guterres has appointed Ovais Sarmad of India as the Deputy Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the forum where the historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change was negotiated. Sarmad's appointment comes as the Paris Agreement faces a potential crisis if the US goes through with President Donald Trump's threat to disown it. Stephane Djuarric, the spokesperson for Guterres, said Monday that Sarmad's position will be at the Assistant SecretaryGeneral level. The highest ranking Indian in the UN bureaucracy is Atul Khare, the Under-Secretary-General, Department of Field Support, who plays a crucial role in the peacekeeping operations. Sarmad is currently the Chief of Staff to the Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the UN body that deals with international international migration issues and assists migrants as well as governments.

Djuarric said that Sarmad "was a key team member negotiating the agreement" that led to the US joining the IOM. Now Sarmad's diplomatic skills may be called upon as the landmark Paris Agreement is at risk of being reneged by its most important party, the US, which is the world's biggest emitter of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. A 1982 commerce graduate of Osmania University in Hyderabad, he has a chartered management accountancy qualification from London and is an expert in finance and management. After a career in public and private sectors in London, Sarmad joined IOM in Geneva in 1990. During his 27-year career at the IOM, he has also worked as Chief of Budget, Director of Resource Management, Director of the Global Administrative Centre and Chief of Mission to the Philippines. He succeeds Richard Kinley of Canada. The UNFCC is headed by Patricia Espinosa, the Executive Director appointed by then Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon last year.

WORLD NEWS

World Heritage-listed island most polluted place on Earth

remote island in the South Pacific is the most polluted place on the planet, Australian research said on Tuesday, May 16. The study published by Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) said the beaches of the World Heritagelisted Henderson Island contained 37.7 million pieces of debris, Xinhua news agency reported. Jennifer Lavers, the lead researcher, said the debris weighed 17.6 tonnes, the highest density of plastic rubbish anywhere in the world. She said the finding should act as a warning that plastic pollution is as big a threat as climate change. “What’s happened on Henderson Island shows there’s no escaping plastic pollution even in the most distant parts of our oceans,” Lavers said. “Far from being the pristine ‘deserted island’ that people might imagine of such a remote place, Henderson is a shocking but typical example of how plastic debris is affecting the environment on a

paceX has successfully launched a very heavy commercial communications satellite aimed at delivering highspeed broadband connectivity globally. The fourth Inmarsat-5 satellite took off on a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre at about 7.21 p.m. EDT ( 4.51am Tuesday India time). “Successful deployment of Inmarsat-5 Flight 4 to a Geostationary Transfer Orbit confirmed,” SpaceX tweeted. “Inmarsat-5 F4 (I-5 F4) will

boost the power of our awardwinning Global Xpress network, which has been delivering seamless, high-speed broadband connectivity across the world since December 2015,” the London-based mobile satellite services provider said in a statement. “Once in geostationary orbit, the satellite will provide additional capacity for Global Xpress users on land, at sea and in the air,” Inmarsat said. The satellite, built by Boeing, was deployed approximately half an hour after the launch.

Microsoft to grant $5m for UN human rights efforts

Plastic washed up on the east beach of the ‘pristine’ Henderson Island in the remote South Pacific.

global scale.” The team estimated that there was 671.6 items of debris per square metre on Henderson Island, which lies between Chile and New Zealand in the South Pacific, with 3,570 new pieces of litter washing up on just one of the island’s beaches every day. Lavers said that most of the 300 million tonnes of plastic produced globally every year was not being recycled and having a long-term impact on the world’s oceans.

“Plastic debris is an entanglement and ingestion hazard for many species, creates a physical barrier on beaches to animals such as sea turtles, and lowers the diversity of shoreline invertebrates,” she said “The research shows that more than 200 species are known to be at risk from eating plastic, and 55 per cent of the world’s seabirds, including two species found on the island, are at risk from marine debris.”

Experiencing beauty requires thought: Study

or a person to experience beauty, he or she need to think, say researchers while confirming a philosphical notion by Immanuel Kant, the 18th century German philosopher. The findings show that distractions do indeed detract from the experience of beauty. In other words, it takes thought to

SpaceX successfully launches communication satellite

experience beauty when looking at a beautiful image. On the other hand, sensuous pleasures were also found to be beautiful – a theory rejected by Kant. “We find that beauty, when it happens, is strongly pleasurable, and that strong pleasure is always beautiful,” said Denis Pelli from New York University.

“Strong pleasure and beauty both require thought,” Pelli added, in the paper reported in the journal Current Biology. For the study, the team asked 62 people to indicate how much pleasure and beauty they felt while they saw an image, tasted a candy, or touched a soft teddy bear. In another experiment, participants heard a

n a landmark five-year partnership with the UN, Microsoft has announced it will provide a grant of $5 million to UN Human Rights Office to support its work, with a particular focus on use of technology for critical response to human rights situations. The five-year partnership will focus on the development and use of advanced technology designed to better predict and analyse such situations. “We live in a rapidly evolving age, where technology can either be used to solve human rights problems or misused to erode human rights. Similarly, companies can infringe people’s rights, or they

series of letters and were asked to press a button any time they heard the same letter they’d heard two letters before. The results showed that the distraction took away from the experience of beauty when a person was shown an image earlier deemed beautiful. However, contrary to Kant’s proposal that

can be a major progressive force,” said Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The grant from Microsoft will help establish technologies like “Rights View” – an information “dashboard” that will allow UN human rights staff to aggregate large quantities of internal and external data on specific countries and types of rights violations in real time. “We have an untapped opportunity to use the power of technology to collect data, analyse that data and equip the United Nations to advance human rights around the world,” said Microsoft President Brad Smith.

sensual pleasures can never be beautiful, about 30 per cent of participants said they’d definitely experienced beauty after sucking on a candy or touching a soft teddy bear. Most of the partcipant’s remarked that sucking candy had personal meaning for them, like a fond childhood memory.

INDIA

19 May 2017| www.iwk.co.nz

Modi visits Sri Lanka, stresses on peace and harmony in a multi-language society I n the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Tamildominated tea plantation area in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, May 12, said there is no better sight than a multilingual society living in peace and harmony and exhorted that threads of unity should be strengthened and not separated. With Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe by his side, he said diversity calls for celebration and not confrontation. Modi was addressing a strong gathering of Tamils of Indian origin, largely plantation labour. Modi had visited Sri Lanka two years ago and had undertaken a trip to Jaffna in the north at that time. He pointedly mentioned that he is the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the hill areas of "this beautiful region". The plantation Tamils are distinct from the Tamils of North

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

and East in the island nation, which has for over three decades faced a violent struggle in the two areas by Tamils for their rights. In a 30-minute speech peppered with quotes from the works of Tamil saints and scholars, he also

India prime source, target country for web application attacks: Report

ndia is at the second spot on the list of 'Global Web Application Attack Source Countries' in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region and 12th globally, a new report said adding that the country is eighth when it comes to top target countries for such web application attacks. According to the report by global leader in content delivery network services Akamai Technologies, the US is the top source country for web application attacks, showing significant year-over-year increase – up 57 per cent from the first quarter last year. The Netherlands, at second spot for the top source of web application attacks, dropped to 13 per cent from 17 per cent in the previous quarter, remaining a

consistent source of attack traffic. "Our analysis of first quarter tells us that risks to the internet and to targeted industry sectors remain and continue to evolve," Martin McKeay, senior security advocate and senior editor of the report said. The report said that the first quarter of 2017 saw a 35 per cent year-over-year increase in total web application attacks as compared to the attacks that occurred in the first quarter of 2016. The "First Quarter 2017 State of the Internet/ Security Report" highlighted that Mirai "DNS Water Torture" bot attacks target the financial services industry. The top three attack vectors used against web applications were SQLi, LFI and XSS.

announced India's assistance in the construction of 10,000 additional houses in upcountry areas, where 4,000 have already been built under ownership basis for the beneficiaries. He said that India has decided

to extend the 1990 emergency ambulance service, currently operating in Western and Southern provinces, to all other provinces. Modi expressed India's continued commitment to the people of Sri Lanka in their journey of economic progress of the Tamils and others in Sri Lanka. Recalling the tremendous difficulties and challenges faced by their forefathers when they came from India to settle down here about 200 years ago, he said, "Those men and women were of strong will and courage, who undertook the journey of their life from India to the then Ceylon." "Their journey may have been uphill and their struggles hard but they never gave up. Today, we remember and salute that spirit," he said. The Prime Minister told the Tamils that being the children of Tamil mother, it was a matter of pride that they also speak Sinhala.

"And language is much more than a tool for communication. It defines a culture, forges relationships, joints communities and acts as a strong unifying force. There is no better sight than a multilingual society living in peace and harmony. Diversity calls for celebration and not confrontation," he told them. Recalling the links between Tamils and Sinhalese, Modi said they are historically intertwined. Several Buddhist texts including Jataka tales mention Saint Agastya, whom many consider to be the father of Tamil language. The Sinhalese Nayak Kings of Kandy had matrimonial alliances with the Nayak Kings of Madurai and Tanjore and Sinhala and Tamil were court languages, Modi recalled. "Hindu and Buddhist shrines were both respected and revered. We need to strengthen, not separate, these threads of unity and harmony," he said.

Sri Lankan Airlines to add Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam to network

ri Lankan Airlines on Wednesday, May 17, announced that it will be adding three southern Indian cities – Hyderabad, Coimbatore and Visakhapatnam – to its network from July this year. This move by national carrier of Sri Lanka and a member of the One World airline alliance is part of its efforts to strengthen its network in India. The new connections are expected to bridge the demand of both Indians and Sri Lankans who have been looking for seamless connections across the region for work and leisure purposes,

Sri Lankan Airlines

in Sri Lanka, India and onward destinations, it said. The introduction of these new routes, along with the scheduled frequency increases in its Delhi and Mumbai services, will see SriLankan Airlines operating over 120 flights a week to 14 cities, thus becoming the carrier that serves the highest number of points in India. The flights to three southern cities will commence from July

8. Hyderabad-Colombo flight will depart from Hyderabad at 9.50 a.m. and arrive in Colombo at 11.45 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The flights between Coimbatore and Colombo will be operated every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. VisakhapatnamColombo flight will run over Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

Goa India’s most preferred travel destination B Indonesia and Bhutan witnessed high year-on-year growth of 64.8 per cent, 42.1 per cent and 40.8 per cent, respectively. Queries for "international accommodation" and "international air" reflected a positive increase with 18 per cent and 13 per cent spike in total queries respectively compared to last year. Interestingly, the report revealed that driven by increasingly affordable travel and stay options, interest in holiday travel was consistently growing beyond the metros. Google search data showed a 70 per cent year-on-year growth in travel The queries from non-metro cities Andaman over the past year, with 40.8 and Nicobar per cent of all travel related Islands witnessed a queries emerging from cities boom in popularity and towns beyond Delhi NCR, with 39.8 per cent Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, year-on-year Pune, Hyderabad, Kolkata growth. and Ahmedabad. Further, there was a whopping 96 per cent YoY growth for travel queries using mobile devices as it has made it more flexible for travellers to research, plan their itinerary and choose their favourite destination from anywhere and at any time, the report said.

e it winter or summer, Indians do not seem to get enough of Goa. A new Google India report released on Wednesday, May 17, shows that Goa remains the most preferred destination within the country. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands witnessed a boom in popularity with 39.8 per cent year-on-year growth. Hill stations like Manali, Shimla and Ooty also made it to the top 10 destinations list, according to the report based on searches conducted by Indians between February and April this year. While the US continued to be the most preferred international destination, followed by the UAE and Thailand, queries for countries like Nepal,

INDIA

www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Delhi gurdwara panel terms

Italy’s ban on kirpan ‘unfortunate’

he Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) termed as “unfortunate” the Italian Supreme Court upholding a ban on the ‘kirpan’ (Sikh sword) and said it will approach External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on the matter. Reacting strongly to the Italian Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the ban on kirpan, DSGMC General Secretary Manjinder Singh Sirsa in a statement said: “We will take up issue with Sushma Swaraj and urge her to take up this issue with Italian government.” Terming the court’s decision as “most unfortunate”, Sirsa said “DSGMC understands the situation where the courts of the concerned country are bound to take up the issues as per the law of the land prevalent in the country.” “Time has now come for the Indian government to play a bigger role to safeguard the interests of the Sikhs throughout the world by taking up with different countries the issue of articles of faith.” He also said that laws in some countries where carrying of articles of faith are banned “needs to be amended for achieving this”.

NEWS in BRIEF

Google Doodle marks Antikythera Mechanism’s discovery

The DSGMC’s remarks came after the Italian Supreme Court ruled against a Sikh migrant who wanted to carry a kirpan in public. The Italian court had said migrants who choose to live in Italy must respect Italian laws prohibiting the carrying of weapons even though Sikhs regard kirpan as sacred. The DSGMC General Secretary also pointed out that it was for the Indian government to apprise these countries of the importance of the articles of faith including five Ks like Kirpan, Kara, Kangha, Kachera and Kes.

Sirsa said a high level delegation of the DSGMC will soon meet Sushma Swaraj and apprise her on the need to take up the issue with the Italian government. The Sikh man in the case was appealing against another court’s decision ordering him to pay a 2,000 euro fine ($2,195) because he had been caught leaving his home in Goito, northern Italy, armed with a kirpan measuring nearly 20 cm, the Italian media reported. The man had argued that his kirpan as well as his turban were symbols of his religion and wearing them was part of his religious duty.

Amarinder, Naidu discuss implementation of central schemes

nion Minister of Urban Development M. Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh discussed the implementation of central schemes in the state, an official said. The two discussed in detail various issues related to the implementation of flagship schemes of the Union government in the state, the Ministry of Urban Development said. During the meeting, Naidu informed the Punjab CM about "the recent initiative of conducting review meetings across the country to take first-hand report on the issues and to evaluate the status of various programmes and initiatives" relating to his ministries. The two leaders also discussed the possible areas of collaboration between the two governments to facilitate effective implementation of these schemes. They also discussed the delegation

oogle on Wednesday marked the discovery of Antikythera Mechanism - believed to be the world’s first computer - 115 years ago. In 1902, Greek archaeologist Valerios Stais sifted through some artifacts from a shipwreck at Antikythera. The wrecked Roman cargo ship was discovered two years earlier, but Stais was the first to notice an intriguing bit of bronze among the treasures. It looked like it might be a gear or wheel. That corroded chunk of metal turned out to be part of the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient analog astronomical computer which tracked planetary positions, predicted lunar and solar eclipses, and even signalled the next Olympic Games. “Today’s Doodle illustrates how a rusty remnant can open up a skyful of knowledge and inspiration,” Google said. The mechanism was initially dated around 85 BC, but recent studies suggest it may be even older (circa 150 BC). The crank-powered device was way ahead of its time – its components are as intricate as those of some 18th-century clocks. “It was probably also used for mapping and navigation. A dial on the front combines zodiacal and solar calendars, while dials on the back capture celestial cycles,” Google said.

Modi regime creating intolerance across nation: Congress

he Congress on Tuesday attacked the Narendra Modi government for its failures during the past three years and said that an “atmosphere of intolerance” is being created across the country. “This government weaved a dream of bringing ‘Acche Din’ and doing something new when it came to power in 2014,” Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said at a press conference here. “Instead of bringing the ‘Acche Din’, they shattered the dreams of 125 crore people of the country,” he said. “There is an environment of intolerance in the country, and if anyone raises his/her voice or debates it, then they are branded anti-nationals,” Scindia said. Scindia also accused the government of forcing on the people to what to learn, what to read, what to eat and what to wear. “This government is trying to push its policies based on a regimented thinking,” the Congress leader said, adding that under this regimented thinking it formed anti-romeo squads and harassed people. He said an “anti-Dalit kind of atmosphere is being created in the country”, where this government calls a session to celebrate the Ambedkar Jayanti, and hold a programme in Mau, Uttar Pradesh, and in London.

Kejriwal, Mamata discuss presidential polls

W Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh calls on Union Minister M Venkaiah Naidu in New Delhi, on May 17, 2017.

of more power to the states by the Narendra Modi government under cooperative federalism. The Ministry of Urban Development runs flagship schemes like Smart Cities, Swachh Bharat Mission, National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY), and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), among others.

Under the Smart Cities initiative, Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar in Punjab have been selected for development. The AMRUT scheme is being implemented in 16 cities of Punjab – including Amritsar, Jalandhar and Malerkotla. Senior officials from Punjab and the central government were present during the meeting.

est Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday, May 17, met her Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal here and is learnt to have discussed the upcoming presidential election in which the opposition parties are seeking to put up a consensus candidate. Banerjee’s meeting with Kejriwal came a day after she met Congres President Sonia Gandhi, who is talking to opposition leaders to decide on a common Arvind Kejriwal presidential candidate for the elections to be held in July. While the Aam Aadmi Party leader Raghav Chadha said that it was a courtesy call by Kejriwal, party sources said that he and Banerjee, who is also the Trinamool Congress chief, discussed efforts to forge a consensus among opposition parties on the presidential candidate. The meeting lasted about 40 minutes.

India to build 10 heavy water reactors to boost nuclear power

n a major decision to fast-track Indias domestic nuclear power programme, the union cabinet on Wednesday approved construction of 10 units of indigenous Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR). "The cabinet has approved installation of 10 indigenously built PWHRs of 700 MW each," Union Minister Piyush Goyal said at a media briefing after meeting of the Cabinet presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Goyal, who is union Minister for Power and Coal, said the decision will result in significant augmentation of the country's nuclear power generation capacity. He said India's installed nuclear power capacity is 6,780 MW from 22 operational plants, and another 6,700 MW

is expected to to be generated by 2021-22 through projects under construction. The government had in July 2014 set a target of taking nuclear power capacity to over 14,000 MW by 2024. The decision on construction 10 PHWRs comes days before the Modi government completes three years in office. Goyal said the move will give manufacturing orders to domestic industry to the tune of nearly Rs 70,000 crore and is expected to generate more than 33,400 jobs in direct and indirect employment. "As the government marks three years of its people centric-governance, in a first of its kind project for India's nuclear power sector, the 10 new units will come up as a fully

homegrown initiative," Goyal said. He said it would be one of the flagship "Make in India" projects in the nuclear power sector. The Minister said the project will help transform the Indian nuclear industry by linking the goal of a strong nuclear power sector with the country's indigenous industrial capacities in high-end technologies. "With manufacturing orders to domestic industry, it will be a major step towards strengthening India's credentials as a major nuclear manufacturing powerhouse," Goyal said. He also linked the decision to the government's clean energy goals and low-carbon growth strategy.

SPORTS

NZ thrashes India 8-2 in second match

19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

ew Zealand showed class as they thrashed India eves 8-2 in the second match of the five-match series on Tuesday, May 16. For New Zealand, Samantha Harrison (third minute), Stacey Michelsen (21st, 30th minute), Kirsten Pearce (52), Madison Doar (56), Samantha Harrison (56) and Stephanie Dickins (60) scored the goals while for India, Lilima Minz (40th) and Anupa Barla (49th) found the back of the net. Though India began with positive intent, hosts New Zealand put India on the backfoot with an early 1-0 lead when Samantha Harrison scored a 3rd minute field goal. India couldn’t clear the ball through the right wing and Samantha Harrison beautifully converted the pass into a goal from close range. A chance to equalise went begging in the sixth minute when striker Rani could not get a touch on the ball to deflect it into the post from a long-range assist. In-form keeper Savita made a couple of saves to deny New Zealand from increasing the lead while Anupa Barla’s shot was also saved by the Kiwi keeper Grace O’Hanlon in the 12th minute. The Black Sticks women dominated, holding their structure and looked like scoring more while keeping the Indians at bay. Though

India to tour West Indies for five ODIs, one T20I next month

fter the conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy in England on June 18, India will travel to the West Indies for a limited overs series, starting June 23, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Tuesday, May 16. India will play five One-day Internationals (ODI) and a lone Twenty20 international in the

series, which will be played till July 9. The opening two ODIs will be played at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain on June 23 and 25 while the third and the fourth matches on June 30 and July 2 will be hosted at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. The final ODI (July 6) and the lone T20I (July 9) will be played at the Sabina Park in Jamaica.

Sharapova advances at Italian Open India women’s hockey team are 2-0 down against NZ in the five-match series

India played with high intensity, it was not enough to match New Zealand’s accuracy. After entering the second quarter with a 1-0 lead, the hosts held most of the possession and ended up scoring a brilliant field goal in the 21st minute on the counter through Stacey Michelsen. India earned a penalty corner in the 24th minute but it was promptly denied by keeper Sally Rutherford. New Zealand kept up the pressure on India and created more chances but Savita made several saves to keep India in the game. However, good pressing from hosts along with their ability to be patient and move the ball to drag the defenders out meant that New Zealand scored their third goal through Stacey in the 30th minute and take a comfortable 3-0 lead. India made amends in the third quarter when they earned two

penalty corners. Though the first went amiss, Lilima Minz managed to get a deflection to finally win India a goal in the 40th minute. Though Stacey scored her third goal of the match in the 42nd minute, India showed grit to score their second goal in the 49th minute through Anupa Barla. This helped India narrow the gap to 4-2. But just when India looked like they could come back into the game, their defence collapsed in the final quarter with New Zealand taking complete advantage by scoring as many as four goals in the last eight minutes of the match. New Zealand increased their pace and attack to converted goals through Kirsten Pearce, Madison Doar, Samantha Harrison, and Stephanie Dickins to end the match on a high note. The two teams will now play the third match on May 17.

Maria Sharapova of Russia attends a training session

ussian tennis player Maria Sharapova began the Italian Open with a win over American rival Christina McHale in the first round of the tournament. Sharapova on Monday achieved a clear 6-4, 6-2 victory over McHale in one hour and 37 minutes, reports Efe. She had previously beaten McHale at the 2014 Italian Open second round. The Russian player's

last appearance at the Italian Open was in 2015, when she took the title after beating Spanish Carla Suarez. Sharapova was recently eliminated by Canadian Eugenie Bouchard from the second round of the 2017 Madrid Open. The five-time Grand Slam winner will play the second round against Croatian Mirjana LucicBaroni, who defeated Czech Lucie Safarova earlier on Monday.

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Play sudoku online at:

www.sudokukingdom.com

Sudoku

Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3861

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3x3 squares Medium contains all the digits from 1 to 9. level Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3865 2017-05-13 Medium level Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3862

2017-05-09

7 6

4 6

5 1

6 Play sudoku online at:

www.sudokukingdom.com

5 8

6 3

2017-05-11

6 9

7 3

5 2

Page 1/2

Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3866

Medium level

9 4 5 7 2 6

5 4 9 2 6 8

6 2 3 5 7

5 1 2 6

9 4 5 7

2 8 9 3

4 3 1 8

1 7 6 2

8 6 7 4

8 1 4 5 9 3 Puzzle solution:

9 1

3 4

8 2

5 7

7 6

4 3

1 9

7 3 9 8

1 4 2 5

4 8 5

8 9 6

6 5 3

2 1 7

5 2 4

3 7 1

Puzzle solution:

9 6 8

7 2 6

9 2

2 9 3 1

6 2 3 8 4 9 1 5

1 8 9 6 2 4 7 3

4 3 8 2 6 7 5 1

8 5 4 7 3 6 2 9

2 7 1 5 9 3 8 4

5 9 7 4 1 8 3 6

7 1 6 3 8 5 9 2

3 6 2 9 5 1 4 7

7 6 5 1 8 3 2 9

1 8 3 9 6 7 4 5

5 3 7 4 2 6 8 1

6 9 8 2 4 1 5 7

8 1 6 7 3 4 9 2

2 4 1 5 9 8 3 6

3 7 2 8 5 9 1 4

9 5 4 3 7 2 6 8

2 9 6 1 5 7 3

3 6 8 4 7 1

6 5 7

3 8 4

8 3 9

4 6 1

1 7 5

5 4 2

4Puzzle 6 7 solution: 3 2 8

9 1 8 5

3 7 3 4puzzle 9 No. 6 3852 1 2 2017-04-30 8 5 3 6 8 9 2 5 4 1 7 Sudoku 1 9 6puzzle 7 No. 4 3847 3 8 2017-04-25 2 5 Sudoku Sudoku puzzle No. 3848 2017-04-26 3 7 5 9 1 6 2 4 8 4 2 9 3 5 7 6 1 8 5 2 7 3 9 6 1 4 8

8 1 4 3 5 9

4 9 3 8 2 6

5 4 2 1 6 7

1 3 7 5 8 2

7 8 5 9 3 4

6 5 9 2 4 8

9 2 6 7 1 5

2 7 1 6 9 3

5 8

2017-05-14

Page 1/2

Medium level

1 9

www.sudokukingdom.com

5 3

Page 1/2

4 3

Answers to last week's puzzles

Sudoku puzzle No. 3851 2017-04-29 3

7 6

Play sudoku online at:

2017-05-12

Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3864

7 7

5 6

Medium level

Sudoku puzzle No. 3850 2017-04-28Sudoku puzzle No. 3849 2017-04-27 www.sudokukingdom.com www.sudokukingdom.com 4 1 8 7 3 6 9 5 2 2 6 9 3 www.sudokukingdom.com 7 5 1 8 4 4 1 5 9 7 6 2 8 3 4

Puzzle solution: Puzzle solution: Puzzle solution: Play sudoku online at: Play sudoku online at: Play sudoku online at:

2017-05-10

Play sudoku online at:

9 6

8 Medium level2

www.sudokukingdom.com

5 4

7 Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3863

FUN ZONE

www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

8 9

Crossword

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Page 2/2

General Knowledge Quiz

Hitori

Spot the difference

Objective and Rules of Hitori Eliminate numbers until there are no duplicates in any row or column. Eliminate numbers by marking them in Black. You are not allowed to have two Black squares touching horizontally or vertically (diagonally is ok). White cells must not be isolated from the rest of the board.

1. What is the highest mountain in Africa? Mt Kilimanjaro 2. In which decade was comedian Jim Davidson born? 1950's 3. In the song, 'The House of the Rising Sun' is in which city? New Orleans 4. Ash Wednesday is the first day of what? Lent 5. Children's literature, in which books would you find Eeyore and Kanga? Winnie the Pooh stories 6. What is the name of the block of flats were the Trotter family live in TV's Only Fools and Horses? Nelson Mandela House 7. How high, in feet, is the crossbar on a football goal? Eight 8. What is the official language of Bulgaria? Bulgarian 9. Who was launched into space aboard Vostok 1 in 1961? Yuri Gagarin 10. What do you do with a 'Won Ton'? Eat it 11. What is the 1st book of the Bible? Genesis 12. With which classic song did Bruce Willis have a UK No.2 hit in 1987? Under The Boardwalk 13. What is the name of the cooking technique where vegetables are cut into narrow fine sticks? Julienne 14. On which Apollo mission did Armstrong and Aldrin land on the moon? Apollo 11 15. What is the name of the famous cowboy of rugged jaw and limited intelligence in the Dandy comic? Desperate Dan 16. What is the name given to the thin veil worn by Muslim women in public? Yashmak 17. Which country's capital city is San Salvador? El Salvador 18. In the Bible, which angel foretold the birth of Jesus? Gabriel 19. In which galaxy is the Earth? Milky Way 20. What type of sausage is usually served in a coil? Cumberland

Send us stories, drawings, poems and other contributions by your little ones along with their photographs for this page. E-mail us at reporter@indianweekender.co.nz

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Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) is a New Zealand government Institute of Technology (ITP) providing quality tertiary education to more than 13,000 students across more than 200 programmes. With campuses in Invercargill, Queenstown, Christchurch, Gore and Auckland, SIT combines the best of tradition with cutting-edge technology and has gained a reputation for innovation, developing New Zealand-leading qualifications, facilities and opportunities for students. The courses on offer range from certificates to master’s degrees, all accredited and approved by New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA). SIT is renowned for its super diverse cultures and in 2016 had over 1,500 international students hailing from 35 countries across the world. SIT is large enough to offer variety and a student culture, yet small enough to retain a friendly atmosphere and personalised learning with small class sizes.

Sovereign is the country’s largest life insurer and one of New Zealand’s leading private health insurers, protecting more than 646,000 New Zealanders and their families. In the past financial year, Sovereign paid out more than $350 million to support New Zealanders through illness, allowing them to get access to the best treatment and ensuring their families can continue to pay the bills if the main income earner can’t work or unexpectedly dies. Visit www.sovereign.co.nz to find out more or connect with SovereignNZ on Facebook

Situated in the bustling Auckland CBD, John Andrew Mazda has been committed to meeting the vehicle requirements of their customers based on the core principle of providing personalised and exemplary customer service which has set them apart from their competitors for decades. Renowned for their professionalism and extensive knowledge of Mazda vehicles, quality servicing, maintenance and genuine Mazda parts and accessories. John Andrew Mazda has long been the number one Mazda dealer in the country. Through its extensive network, John Andrew Mazda continues to accommodate the increasing demands of its customers.

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With over 90 years of experience, Barfoot & Thompson understands what makes Auckland and Northland so unique. It is New Zealand’s largest privately owned real estate company with a team of more than 1,700 residential and commercial salespeople. And it believed in supporting the local community. From buying and selling, to property management and body corporate management, the services it provides are unrivalled in the New Zealand real estate market. As New Zealand’s largest privately owned real estate company, Barfoot & Thompson provides a range of residential and commercial services for all your real estate needs.

Spark New Zealand is New Zealand’s largest digital services company delivering mobile, fixed and IT products and services to millions of New Zealand consumers and businesses. Its ambition is to be a winning business, inspired by customers to unleash the potential in all New Zealanders. Spark New Zealand is a multi-brand business, with principal brands Spark supporting home, consumer mobile and business customers and Spark Digital supporting government and business customers with strong Cloud services, mobility and ICT capabilities.

A huge thank you I I NDI A

The Fund Master is your one stop shop for all your mortgage, loan and insurance needs. They have a simple goal i.e. to make your money work for you, irrespective of whether you are an individual or a corporate.

Relianz Travel is air ticketing and travel services company of the Relianz Group. The group’s flagship company, Relianz Forex, is recognised and well regarded for its professional work ethic and customer centric service culture in Auckland’s communities.

The Fund Master helps you by understanding your situation, choosing the right option for you, and managing your application. This process can be time consuming and stressful, and things might go wrong if you don’t have the relevant knowledge. Lest this should happen, The Fund Master’s managing director Dev Dhingra’s expertise will be there for you, to work in your favour to get the best deal possible. And, it’s all free of cost.

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Aims Global Immigration and Education Services is a one-stop solution for all your international immigration and education needs, ranging from decision making to arriving in New Zealand. Their principle lies in their tagline—‘for us, your results come first’. Aims Global has been helping people move to New Zealand for more than ten years.

Reliance Ventilation System (RVS) was founded in 2006 and has proudly served and satisfied over 17000 customers over the last decade. Along with ventilation systems, RVS provides a number of other services such as heat pumps, range hood installations as well as regular maintenance. Turning your house into a healthy and happy home is their mission.

Headed by Arunima Dhingra, the team at Aims Global have vast experience in helping their clients and providing specialised immigration services. Clients come primarily through word-of-mouth referrals from other satisfied clients resulting in countless success stories from people who have moved to New Zealand to work, study or invest.

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FEATURES

Temples of India ¡ DEVIKA RANI WWW.E-PUJA.CO.NZ

ndia is considered a blessed land not only for its spirituality and rich heritage but also for the magnificent temples. The ancient religious monuments are the testimony to the brilliant architectural design and engineering skills as well as the forethought, glory, and wisdom of the rulers of those places. The Paramacharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Pitham, Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Swamigal had said in an interview: “Our temples are not organised as places for meditation, nor for congregational worship. The purpose of a temple is different. “We are bound to tender our gratitude to God who has primarily given us the good things of life. We offer a part of these good things as a token of our gratitude to Him in the temple. “We first offer to Him all that he has given to us...and we receive them back from Him as His prasada. Even if people do not go to the temple, it is enough that these offerings are made to God on behalf of the community.” It is remarkable to find that these sacred structures have sustained as a symbol of devotion and endured the test of time and the onslaught of invaders.

Somnath Temple is one of the 12 jyotirlingas located on the shore of the Arabian Sea. This temple was destroyed and

rebuilt several times. It is a highly revered and historical temple that has gained a mention in the Rig Veda. A fascinating fact is that it if a straight line is charted from the temple to the South Pole there is only water no land. Dwarkadish Temple in Dwaraka is one of the char dhams (four pilgrimage sites) and also one of Lord Vishnu’s 108 divya desams (temples or holy places). The elaborate structure is over 2500 years old.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous temples of Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 jyotirlingas. Kailashnath Temple at the Ellora Caves carved out of a monolithic rock in the eighth century is known for its perfect proportions. Tirupathi Balaji Temple has one of the highest number of visitors with over 50,000 people visiting per day. This temple was deemed to be the richest until a huge treasure was discovered at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple worth a trillion dollars.

Brihadeshwara Temple in Tanjore was built of granite in 1002 AD on the principles

May 19 to May 25 | By Manisha Koushik ¡ Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20)

¡ Cancer (Jun 22-Jul 20)

There is much happening on the family front and you are likely to fully participate in it. Financial planning done beforehand is likely to help you keep your expenses in check. Progress on the work front may be slow, but it will be devoid of mistakes. You will need to be wary of a glib talker with a poison tongue. Cupid is likely to smile on those looking for love. Efforts on the health front will be fruitful.

It is best to go by the advice of someone at work, who is much more experienced. Romance rocks this week as the one you like takes special pains to be with you. A financial upswing is foreseen that will make you comfortable on the monetary front. Minor ailments afflicting you will disappear through a specific line of treatment that you have opted for. Your disinterest will be apparent at work and someone will not hesitate to say so.

Lucky number: 17 / Lucky colour: Dark grey

Lucky number: 3 / Lucky colour: Off white

¡ Taurus (Apr 21-May 20) You will need to anticipate a rival’s move to remain unscathed. A workplace rivalry may rear its ugly head this week, so remain cautious. Those into yoga or other traditional forms of exercise will not only remain ailment free, but also achieve mental peace. Your tendency to overspend on yourself needs to be checked. A family elder may compel you to do something that you are not in favour of. Lover may surprise you by showing up unannounced. Lucky number: 15 / Lucky colour: Light green

¡ Gemini (May 21-Jun 21)

¡ Leo (Jul 21-Aug 22) It may be in your interest to cultivate people who may support you in future. Your fertile mind is likely to throw up some excellent ideas that promise to put you in a special category on the professional front. You may be exempted from spending money on something you were dreading. Much hustle and bustle can be expected on the social front to your delight. A relationship that you are terming as romance may only be infatuation. Lucky number: 7 / Lucky colour: Rosy brown

¡ Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 23)

19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

of vaastu shastra. It is an architectural marvel that does not have a shadow at mid-day. Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is the largest temple with 14 magnificently carved gopurams (monumental ornate towers), beautiful paintings and thousands of statues. Tungnath Temple at Rudraprayag is the highest temple at 3,680 metres above sea level. It is so small that there is space for only ten people inside.

Vaishno Devi Temple is situated at an altitude of 5200 ft., and is in a holy cave which has no idols. Dakshineswar Kali temple in Kolkata is also an architectural gem. The Puri Jagannath Temple built in the 11th century is one of the char dhams.

Rameshwaram Temple is known as the Banaras of South and is also a part of the char dham pilgrimage. It was built on the shore of the southern-most part of the land.

The Sun Temple in Konark is a UNESCO world heritage site and was built in 1250. Rabindranath Tagore said about this temple: “Here the language of stone surpasses the language of man.” Varadharaja Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in the holy city of Kanchipuram. It is one of the divya desams of Vishnu built in the 11th Century. Sriranganatha Swamy Temple is also one of the 108 divya desams built on 156 acres.

The Hampi Temple complex built 2000 years ago on the banks of the Tungabhadra river is known for the hollow musical pillars that have remarkable acoustics. The shore temples at Mahabalipuram are one of the oldest ones built around 700 A.D. There are thousands of temples for millions of Gods throughout India. Probably, this was what prompted Mark Twain to say, “India has two million gods, and worships them all. In religion, all other countries are paupers; India is the only millionaire.”

Manisha Koushik is a practicing astrologer, tarot card reader, numerologist, vastu and fengshui consultant based in India with a global presence through the online channels. She is available for consultations online as well. E-mail her at support@askmanisha. com or contact at +91-11-26449898 Mobile/Whatsapp: +919015607139 • www.askmanisha.com

¡ Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23) Differing opinions on an issue may confuse you, but you know what to do. Efforts to keep a step ahead of rivals on the professional front will be successful. Impressing those who matter at work will not be difficult. Judicious spending will help you save much on the financial front. You may be much sought after in a marriage or social function. Keeping all ailments at bay may become your mantra and ensure total fitness. Lucky number: 4 / Lucky colour: Chocolate

¡ Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22) This is not the right time to broach a controversial subject, as it can spoil moods. Your performance on the professional front is likely to be appreciated. You are likely to make your mark on the academic front. Developing better understanding with someone who is now associated with you will be most beneficial. Someone from the opposite camp is likely to get enamoured by your personality and charisma. Inculcate more activity in your life to remain fit. Lucky number: 9 / Lucky colour: Coffee

¡ Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)

¡ Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 21) Include your near and dear ones in your plans. People are likely to dominate you on the social front, so be ready to take pre-emptive action. Lagging behind in something that is important may make you burn the midnight oil. You may get your chance to enjoy the revelry in a social event. Lover may have reservations regarding spending time in seclusion, but your will is likely to prevail. An interesting individual is likely to keep you entertained. Lucky number: 1 / Lucky colour: Golden brown

¡ Aquarius (Jan 22-Feb 19) Going the extra mile for someone will be greatly appreciated by all. You will manage to remain financially sound by being judicious in your spending. Adopting a diet that suits your lifestyle promises to keep you fit as a fiddle. Backlog may need to be cleared at work quickly in order to catch up with the current issues on the professional front. Patience will be required on the academic front to choose the best options. Lucky number: 22 / Lucky colour: Dark turquoise

¡ Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

You are likely to feel comfortable in a set routine. It is best not to raise any contentious issue at home as it can create disharmony. Be thorough in whatever you do on the academic front, as any laxity on your part may prove disastrous. Not being regular in workouts may start telling your health soon. Your investments are likely to give good returns. Excitement is in store for those in a romantic relationship. Health remains satisfactory.

It is not right to blow your own horn, especially if your achievement is nothing to write home about. Practical knowledge gained by hands on experience at work will come in handy. Good grades can be expected by those awaiting result on the academic front. Home remedy or alternate medicine will help you in getting rid of an ailment. Getting to spend less time with family may frustrate you, but you will manage to cope with it.

There is someone who is out to harass you, but don’t give in to him or her. You will get a chance to tap your potential on the professional front and impress those who matter. A social event may find you in your element and promises to make you ever so popular. Money can be expected as gift. A better pay package is assured for those switching jobs. You are certain to attract someone on the romantic front.

There is a good chance of getting an opportunity that you had been waiting for long. The only way to remain financially sound is by being judicious in your spending. Adopting a diet that suits your lifestyle promises to keep you fit. Backlog may need to be cleared at work quickly in order to catch up with the current issues on the professional front. Patience will be required on the academic front to choose the best options.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 19 May 2017

Vegetable Korma

A medley of vegetables in mild creamy sauce

Introduction: The goodness of the vegetables is the star of this preparation. Seasonal veggies are chopped into bite-size chunks and tossed together to make a colourful creation. Traditionally, korma dishes were slowcooked on a charcoal fire. They can be fiery or mild – the spices used in this recipe form a background that doesn’t overpower the individual flavours. The coconut cream gives the sauce a luscious texture and the Kashmiri red chillies give it an unmistakable red colour.

Features • • • • •

Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 35 Minutes Serves/Makes: 6 Tastes:( on icon of spice meter): Mild (Mild/Medium/Spicy/Hot)

Ingredients: • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes • 1 cup peas • ½ cup beans, chopped • 1 cup carrots, peeled and cut into bitesize pieces • 1 cup broccoli, cut into florets

• ½ cup capsicum, cut into bite-size chunks • ½ tsp cumin seeds • 2 medium onions, chopped • 1 tsp garlic paste • 1 tsp ginger paste • 1 large tomato, chopped • 1 tsp red chilli powder • ½ tsp Kashmiri chilli powder • 1 tsp coriander powder • ½ tsp turmeric powder • ½ tsp garam masala powder • ½ tsp cardamom powder • ½ cup whole cashew nuts • 1½ cups water • 2 tsp cashew nuts, chopped (for garnishing) • ¼ cup raisins • ½ cup coconut cream • 2 Tbsp plain yoghurt (whisked) • ½ tsp fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) • 4 Tbsp oil

Method: • Boil potatoes until almost cooked and keep aside. Boil all the other vegetables for 5 minutes, drain in a colander and set aside. • Heat 2 Tbsp of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cumin

seeds; once they start to crackle, add the onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add the garlic and ginger paste, sauté for a minute, add tomato and spices (red chilli powder, Kashmiri chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder and cardamom powder). Stir and sauté for 1–2 minutes, then add ½ cup whole cashews. Sauté for 4–5 minutes. • Take the onion masala out of the pan, let it cool, then place in a blender along with 1½ cups of water and puree until smooth. Keep aside. • In the same pan, heat 2 Tbsp of oil on medium heat. Pour the marsala purée into the pan, add whisked yoghurt, mix well and cook for 2–3 minutes or until oil surfaces. • Add the cooked vegetables mix well. Add coconut cream and kasuri methi and stir well again.. Cover and cook for a few minutes to heat through.

• Garnish with raisins and a few chopped cashew nuts. • Serve hot with Naan (page XX) or Puri (page XX).

Ruby’s Tip: Other vegetables can be substituted as you like, such as baby corn, carrots or cauliflower, as long as care is taken to use them in the same proportions. Another simple variation is to use peas and potato only. Vegetable Kkorma is similar to (but not same) toas Navratna Korma. Navratna means nine (nav) vegetables, likened to gems (ratna). Paneer can be used in Vvegetable Kkorma to make an interesting variation; however but Nnavratna Kkorma is always prepared without sans paneer. Garnishing can be tweaked too – just pan fry the chopped cashew nuts and raisins in a few drops of oil until the edges of the nuts turns golden.

7 ways turmeric can work wonders for your body

urmeric, also known as the queen of spices, is often regarded as one of the best nutritional supplements. The herb's properties range from antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, to anti-carcinogenic and anti-inflammatory. It has in abundance nutrients such as dietary fibre, protein, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium and zinc, with vitamins C, E and K. No wonder turmeric is gaining popularity in the West as an effective health latte. Turmeric has a sharp flavour, which can get a little to pungent to taste. There are various ways in which you can consume this herb. Following is a list of 7 easy and efficient recipes which combine turmeric with various other things, to add to its effect.

Turmeric Milk

stomach in the morning.

Face Mask Turmeric can be used to prepare a face mask that leaves

This is the most common grandmothers' recipe when anyone in the family falls sick with cold and cough or pain. Simply mix half tablespoon of turmeric in boiled milk (ideally full-fat). You can also add turmeric while boiling the milk.

Acne Gel Turmeric is also very healthy for skin and can be used to treat acne. Take 1/3 tablespoon of turmeric and mix it with an equal amount of honey (you can increase the amount by keeping the proportion same). Put the paste on your acne and leave it until dry. Rinse it with water and pat dry.

Daily Detox Drink

your skin smoothened and brighter. Add in 1 tablespoon of yoghurt 1/3 tablespoon of turmeric and ½ tablespoon of honey. Leave it until dry. Rinse it with water and pat dry.

Itching Gel You can also use turmeric on itchy skin patches, bites and poison ivy. Add 1/3 tablespoon of turmeric in an equal amount of aloevera gel (you can increase the amount by keeping the proportion same). Leave it until dry. Rinse it with water and pat dry.

Mouth Ulcer Gel A paste made with turmeric can provide relief from mouth ulcers. Add a pinch of turmeric in a few 1 tablespoon of water and ½ tablespoon of coconut oil. Apply the paste on the ulcers and gargle it with water. Turmeric is known for its detoxification properties and can leave you soothed if you drink it every day. One simple daily detox turmeric recipe can be prepared by adding 1/3 tablespoon of turmeric, honey (to taste), and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in lukewarm water. Have it everyday empty

Weight Loss Drink Turmeric can be really effective in losing weight. Boil a glass of water. Add ½ tablespoon of turmeric and ½ tablespoon of ginger juice in it. Have it every morning on an empty stomach.

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19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

AUCKL AND’S HOT TEST BOLLY WOOD STATION

Baahubali 2: The Conclusion Would Sridevi have fared better as Sivagami? I

t is often said that what a film director really directs is the audience’s attention. The greatest aid to succeed in this aspect usually comes in the form of the actors chosen to portray specific roles and S.S. Rajamouli might have had this in mind when he approached Sridevi to portray Sivagami in his opus Baahubali. From the looks of the scale of the Baahubali franchise, the production quality and, quite simply, the milestone it was destined to become, there could be little doubt that Sridevi was tailor-made for the character. The actor’s aura by itself could have been reason enough for Rajamouli to imagine her as the ironwilled matriarch who goes through a gamut of emotions in the course of the two films. It is said that Sridevi demanded Rs 6 crore as remuneration, which was a tad too high for the producers and they ultimately opted for Ramya Krishnan. Ironically enough, Sridevi’s aura made her a natural choice for Sivagami, Ramya Krishnan’s near ‘lack of baggage’ as an actor in the end only helped enhance Sivagami better. Despite a flourishing career that saw her feature in over 150 films across Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi cinema, Ramya Krishnan’s name is not the first that that pops into one’s mind when thinking of actors from the 1990s. In addition to Meena, Soundarya or Naghma, Ramya was one of the most popular actresses of the decade and forayed into Hindi films with Yash Chopra’s Parampara (1993) and later became popular as Ballu Balram’s (Sanjay Dutt) moll in Subhash Ghai’s Khalnayak (1993). Although Ramya was first seen in Feroz Khan’s Dayavaan (1989), where she played the girl in the song Chahe Meri Jaan Tu Le Le, it was only with films like Khalnayak and later Criminal (1995) and Chaahat (1994), her paramount Hindi roles, that she stood out. For Hindi audiences, Ramya, at best, could be slotted between a Sridevi and a Madhavi, who starred in Andha Kanoon (1983), Geraftaar (1985) and Agneepath (1990). Ramya’s popularity in the context of Hindi films dipped post Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (1998) but elsewhere things were only looking up. She featured opposite Rajinikanth in Padaiyappa (1999) and hit a peak of sorts by winning the Filmfare Award (Tamil) for Best Actress as well. This was before Baahubali, of course, which, in a way, has not only elevated Ramya to a different league altogether but also made her peerless. There is no denying that Sridevi’s histrionics would have presented an entirely different interpretation of Sivagami but would she really have been better? There are two scenes in the Baahubali 2: The Conclusion that compel this writer to believe that Sridevi would have been superior to Ms Krishnan. At the onset, this is not to say that Ramya Krishnan did not ‘nail it’ when it came to Sivagami but the two set pieces – one where Amarendra Baahubali (Prabhas)

revolts against Sivagami in the court in front of everyone and the second where Sivagami realises her folly - of believing her son, Bhallaladeva (Rana Daggubati), and her husband, Bijjala Deva (Nassar), and ordering the assassination of Baahubali – show how she probably fell short than what Sridevi could have managed. These two scenes and especially the former where Sivagami has to live an entire lifetime in a matter of seconds where she witnesses her ‘son’ Amarendra freeing himself from her shadow and become bigger than her own self could have been the ones that prompted Rajamouli to envision Sridevi as Sivagami. The sheer range that Sridevi portrays in such scenes as seen in Moondram Pirai (1982), which was later remade as Sadma (1983) in Hindi, or Lamhe (1991) where she filters the entirety of her character in one singular moment is what possibly made her a no-brainer for Sivagami. The reactions to Sridevi making a big career mistake by refusing Sivagami have swamped the Internet for the past few days. These have ranged from fans to members of the trade such as Ram Gopal Varma, who is not only a self-obsessed Sridevi fan but also someone who directed her in Kshana Kshanam (1991) and Govinda Govinda (1994). Varma tweeted that had Sridevi done the film she would have gotten more credit than Prabhas and it would have been an outstanding film for her illustrious career. Perhaps certain things are simply not meant to be and Sridevi’s loss resulted in the great rediscovery of Ramya Krishnan. Actors across the world have made similar mistakes and learnt from it too. Sean Connery famously rejected the roles of Morpheus and Gandalf in The Matrix (1999) and The Lord of the Rings (2001) respectively because he “didn’t understand it.” Some years later he got offered another role that he didn’t understand as well but accepted it nonetheless and said, “I’ll be damned if I’m going to turn it down.” The film was The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003)…. here’s hoping that Sridevi is in no tearing hurry to rectify things.

When Big B was in awe of Dhoni

egastar Amitabh Bachchan says when Mahendra Singh Dhoni visited him on the set of 2003 film Baghban, the whole cast and crew, including him, was in awe of the former India skipper. Amitabh, who promoted his new film Sarkar 3 on “IPL Extra Innings”, got nostalgic about the sport on his blog and recalled some of the memorable times when he met cricketers like Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar. In the lengthy post, the Piku star shared an incident when Dhoni visited him on the Baghban set. “The memory goes on for years and years. Right down to present times and Sachin and M.S. Dhoni and all the younger players that exhibit such tremendous energy and skills on the pitch. Dhoni walking on to the set of Baghban while I was shooting and all of us in absolute awe of the man,” he wrote.

Never faced discrimination over accent: Irrfan Khan

ctor Irrfan Khan, who balances his work in the international and Indian film world, says he has never faced discrimination over his accent. Often, Indian actors who work in films abroad flaunt an unnatural accent in English for their international projects. Has Irrfan had any issues as such? “No. Fo r t u n a t e l y, when I did my first inter national film, I had to play a Bengali in it and had to have an accent. And there were some films for which I had to acquire a foreign accent. Bengali was as important to me as an American accent. I had to do it,” he said. “Every time you have to adapt to the where the character is from and you have to adapt to his accent. It’s a part of the job. Whether you’re doing a Paan Singh Tomar or whatever... As an actor, accent is something you have to acquire. It’s not about Indian or American accent,” Irrfan said. The actor, who has earlier featured in foreign films like A Mighty Heart, The Namesake, Slumdog Millionaire, The Amazing Spider-Man, Life of Pi and Jurassic World, is busy promoting his forthcoming Hindi film Hindi Medium these days. Soon, he will fly out to New York to shoot his next Hollywood movie Puzzle.

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Deepika at Cannes 2017:

19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Will Deepika leave her mark at Cannes? Here’s how her past choices have fared

very dress has a story. And when you choose to wear a particular ‘dress’ at world’s most glamourous film festival Cannes, it is bound to make some statements. All eyes will be on Deepika Padukone as she will walk the red carpet on May 17 at Cannes 2017. When Deepika first walked the red carpet in 2010, the actor was still a budding Bollywood star, new, young and less susceptible to criticism. Over the last few years, Deepika’s stardom has gained significant stature. Her recent appearance in Hollywood action flick xXx: Return of Xander Cage starring Vin Diesel made her a popular face across the world. So, Deepika’s choice of a particular outfit matters and it will surely accompany some noise. Will Deepika be able to make a statement with her dress at Cannes? While there is still some time left for Deepika to walk the red carpet, here’s a look at Deepika’s most talked about red carpet appearances: Deepika Padukone wore a Tommy Hilfiger satin gown to attend Met Gala event. The actor’s dusky beauty was highlighted by this elegant gown. Deepika might have received a lukewarm response for choosing elegance over novelty (unlike Priyanka Chopra who stole the limelight from Deepika for her nowvery-famous trenchcoat-gown), but her dress was the fifth most googled outfits from Met Gala night. A tweet by Google trends confirmed the same. MTV European Music Awards was Deepika’s first major international red carpet debut. The actor wore a green thigh-high slit dress but received flak from foreign media. Daily Mail cited Deepika’s choice of green dress as ‘Bollywood blunder’. Deepika was also listed on newspaper’s worst dressed stars list. The newspaper described Deepika’s look as “Bollywood blunder: Indian actress Deepika Padukone may be stunning but her swamp green bralet and skirt combo did nothing for her sensational figure.” However, Deepika Padukone received a wave of support from Indian fans on social media. Deepika’s choice of outfit at xXx: Return of Xander Cage Mumbai premiere was accompanied by a lot of noise. The event was attended Priyanka by Vin Chopra who Diesel stole the limelight and also from Deepika for saw a long list of Bollywood biggies. her now-very-famous trenchcoat-gown), but her Did Deepika handle the pressure well? Deepika chose to wear a retro Naeem Khan golden sequin gown with a dress was the fifth most plunging neckline. googled outfits from Met Gala The actor didn’t look much comfortable with this particular dress, something which happens rarely with Deepika. Some media outlets also suggested that she suffered from night. wardrobe malfunction during the event.

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19 May 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

I don’t have any backing but

I never crib about it: Aditi

rom her supporting role in Delhi 6 to playing filmmaker Mani Ratnam’s muse in Kaatru Veliyidai, Aditi Rao Hydari has come a long way. The actress, who is working with some of the biggest directors in the film industry, says she is proud that she has come this far without any backing. “I came from nowhere and it has been baby steps. I don’t have that kind of backing but I never crib about it. I always feel blessed because so many people have taken me under their wings, nurtured me and made me a part of their vision,” Aditi said. “The wishes that I made, the dreams that I dreamt, I did realise them. It is definitely a struggle. Getting work is not tough but to work with people I always wanted to is difficult,” she says. Her next Bollywood release is Bhoomi, directed by Omung Kumar. The movie is a father-daughter story and the actress plays the titular role. “It is my first title role. The film is about a father standing with his daughter. It is about men being together with women and empowering them. The experience has been soul- wrenching. The character has made me push my limits. I actually get attracted to such stuff,” she says. Post Bhoomi, Aditi will be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus Padmavati. “I want somebody to push me and grill me and extract a performance out me which nobody expects. After Mani sir, it was Omung sir and now it is Sanjay sir. I am living my dream,” she saiid. Both Bhansali and Ratnam are known as tough task masters, but Aditi believes getting out of one’s comfort zone is important. “I always wanted to work with Mani sir and Bhansali sir. I may be in an uncomfortable situation someway, but I don’t consider it as I like being challenged. There is a great joy in it. These filmmakers nurture you and they are like a drug, you keep wanting to go back to them,” she said. “I don’t want to become a jaded person and I don’t want to be complacent. I always want to feel this excitement and I hope I can. And when I see people like Mr Amitabh Bachchan, it drives me more,” she adds.

We wanted to have Kejriwal’s look for my character in Sarkar 3: Manoj Bajpayee

“

It’s just the look. We wanted to have the look of Kejriwal and that’s about it. The character is completely different, he is a fiery young politician whose stance is completely opposite to that of Sarkar,” Manoj Bajpayee says. Bollywood actor Manoj Bajpayee was being touted as one of the contenders for the National Award this year for his acclaimed performance in Aligarh, but the actor has said losing out to Akshay Kumar did not disappoint him. “For me, it has always been easy to move on from disappointments in life. I am used to it. I don’t base my life and career on any award in this country. Awards shouldn’t be defining you as a person or as an actor,” he said. Bajpayee received lot of acclaim for his portrayal of a gay professor in the Hansal Mehta-directed film Aligarh. This year’s National Award for best actor went to Akshay for Rustom. Bajpayee has won two National Awards- best actor in supporting role for Satya and special jury award for Pinjar. “The support that I got from the people was quite overwhelming. At the same time, I would like to congratulate all the winners. Let them celebrate. I will get my chances definitely in the future,” he adds. Bajpayee’s latest film Sarkar 3 marks his reunion with director Ram Gopal Varma after almost 14 years. The actor shot to fame with Varma’s 1998 cult hit Satya and later worked with him in Road, but soon parted ways with the filmmaker over creative differences. In Sarkar 3, Bajpayee plays a local politician who is against the involvement of goons in politics. The actor has said contrary to rumours, his character in the film is not based on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal but his look is definitely inspired by him. “It’s just the look. We wanted to have the look of Kejriwal and that’s about it. The character is completely different, he is a fiery young politician whose stance is completely opposite to that of Sarkar,” says Bajpayee.

CLASSIFIEDS Situation Vacancy ¡ Orchard Manager We are looking for an innovative and progressive Orchard Manager to join our well-established Horticulture team.You will be responsible for managing a portfolio of different orchard. This is a role where you will get to plenty of opportunity to bring your ideas and mark your mark. Key Responsibilities : • Full responsibility for all on orchard activities and outcome. • Coordination of all seasonal orchard activities.

• Training and development of staff . • Ensure Grower Industry Compliance is met Essential attributes and experience includes: • Qualifications – Must have a Diploma in Horticulture to Level 5 • Proven hands on experience in orchard management with sound technical knowledge – ideally 4 + years experience • Commitment to improving orchard production All applicants must have NZ Residency or a valid NZ Work Visa and a clean drivers licence. Please forward confidential applications to Brett Malcolm, via email or applying online, including a Cover Letter and CV to apply

International Day of Yoga

Date: Sunday, June 18 Time: 10:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Venue: 48 Kemp Street, Kilbirnie, Wellington The High Commission of India is going to host the International Day of Yoga on Sunday, 18 June 2017 in Wellington. International Day of Yoga will also be celebrated in other important cities in New Zealand like Auckland, Christchurch etc. in collaboration with the Indian diaspora associations. Attendees will have to bring their own mats.

The Colors of India by Simar Sahni

Date: Saturday, May 27 Time: 11 a.m.to 6 p.m. Venue: Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall, May Road, Mt Roskill, Auckland “Every artist dips their brush into their soul to create a part of themselves onto a canvas.” are thrilled to invite you all to Simar’s second solo art exhibition which will feature the mix of abstract, contemporary and modern art inspired by one of the most beautiful and magnificent countries in the world, our own homeland. We humbly present to you “ The Colours Of India”. Simar’s first art exhibition still feels like dream. It was a great success where she showcased 30 art pieces and paintings were sold like hot cakes. We again look forward to your support to motivate her once again. Please feel free to extend the invitation to your known art lovers.

Sexual Violence Workshop with NZ Police

Date: Sunday, May 14, Time: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Venue: Univeristy of Auckland Hosted by University of Auckland Indian Society, The purpose of this workshop is to explore how sexual harassment affects people in society and what boundries need to be maintained. Despite living in the 21st century, many girls and boys especially face this issue and it is often neglected as a crime that only occurs in third world countries.

Shri Ram Mandir 2nd Anniversary

Date: Wednesday, June 7 until Sunday, June 10 Time: 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. onwards Venue: Ram Mandir, 11 Brick Street, Henderson Shri Ram Mandir is organising its annual Paath Uthsav, the four-day programme includes Pooja and cultural performances. Several passion-packed cultural activities all organised to engage the audience as well as helping promote the understanding and appreciation of the Indian culture. We are requesting our people in our community to come together to contribute our unique cultural heritage to highlight as a tremendous year for Shri Ram Mandir Paath Uthsav.

Kiss the Sky

Date: Thursday, June 29 until Saturday, July 1 Time: 7:30 p.m. onwards Venue: Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Beach The New Zealand Dance Company forges its stellar reputation for choreographic mastery and extraordinary contemporary dance with the premiere of its 2017 triple bill Kiss the Sky, opening 29 June at the Bruce Mason Centre for four performances only. The season includes special opportunities to connect with The New Zealand Dance Company through an engaging “whole whanau” workshop and creative pre- and post-show talks.

gsbhullar1990@gmail.com. Contact Manish Kataria 02102747372

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Smokers OK outside. pets negotiable. Contact: 021 1046191

¡ Ponsonby 3 bedroom unit with 1 bathroom. Rent $720 per week. A spacious upper level conversion offering an affordable and easy way to get into one of Auckland’s most popular suburbs. A short walk up the road to vibrant Ponsonby Road and all it has to offer the home also is conveniently located for access to all the amenities of Grey Lynn. There is plenty of on street car parking and gas/water is included in the rent. Ph: (09) 3764819 / (027) 4319689

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