Indian Weekender 23 June 2017

23 JUNE2017 | Vol 9 Issue 14

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Friday, June 23, 2017

The Indian Weekender

NZ CELEBRATES YOGA DAY

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF

YOGA

The Indian Weekender

NEW ZEALAND

Friday, June 23, 2017

India’s soft power on display with

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International Yoga Day celebrations all around ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

O

n Sunday, June 18, New Zealand woke up to a generous display of India’s soft power and civilisational values when hundreds of Yoga enthusiasts gathered at different locations around the country under different banners of equally motivated Yoga gurus and Yoga-preaching organisations to demonstrate their fondness and commitment to this ancient practice of Yoga.

The event was to commemorate and celebrate the third International Yoga Day, which was observed later in the week on June 21.

The Indian Weekender keenly supported all the celebrations around the country bringing live from major locations such as Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and reporting about others on the print and web edition.

The occasion brought many individuals, children and families from different walks of life, representing different socioethnic background, together on one common platform feeling proud about this ancient practice and the value it brings towards healthy living.

Yoga is a 5,000-year-old practice to foster good mental and physical health widely acknowledged to have originated in the ancient Hindu civilisation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea of an International Yoga Day to the U.N.

General Assembly (UNGA) in 2014, which was eventually adopted by the United Nations with the support of 177 countries to celebrate June 21 as International Yoga Day. The first International Yoga Day was celebrated in 2015, with Indian Prime Minister taking the lead in performing Yoga with a large public gathering of about 35,000 yogaenthusiasts in New Delhi, which coincided with several simultaneous global events around the world.

Since then, the Indian government has made it a point to demonstrate leadership and ownership of global celebrations of International Yoga Day. In New Zealand, celebrations were led by Indian High Commissioner Sanjeev Kohli, who was present with his entire team at an event organised at Bharat Bhawan, Wellington, to demonstrate Indian government’s full commitment to support the celebration of Yoga around the world.

However, Indian Association of New Zealand (erstwhile Manukau Indian Association) took the laurels of

being the first to organise an event celebrating the International Yoga Day anywhere in the world this year by starting early at 9 a.m. All other events possibly started a bit later in the day at 10.30 a.m.

It is important to note that ‘Yoga’

and ‘diaspora’ are two integral components of Indian Prime Minister Modi’s drive toward developing India’s soft power in international politics. ‘Soft power’ in international politics is described

by Harvard academic Joseph Nye as “the ability to get what you want through attraction rather than coercion or payments.”

Many experts believe that this initiative is a welcome departure from India’s previously noted cultural lethargy, where there was an acute absence of a sense of pride and a concerted push for India’s cultural gifts for the rest of the world.

Today, perhaps a hundred million people in the world practice some form of Yoga. Though asanas remain the main focus, pranayama, mantra and meditation are also included. Yoga training programmes around the world routinely examine traditional Yoga texts like the Yoga Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita. This obviously provides an added opportunity to share India’s

cultural gifts with rest of the world.

The popularity of yoga all around the world has also contributed in some way to the popularity of many spiritual gurus from India, thus spreading the value of Indian culture globally. Great gurus like Paramahansa Yogananda, Ramana Maharshi, Sri Aurobindo, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, Satya Sai Baba, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Mata Amritanandamayi, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, and many others have become recognisable names in numerous countries. And for many of their disciples, yoga is more a spiritual journey than a mere physical exercise.

In this regard, if Indian government’s motive behind the push for celebrations of International Yoga Day is to spread the values of India’s cultural gifts to the world along with inculcating a sense of pride among people of Indian descent and diaspora around the world so as to create a favourable international image, then this was generously achieved in New Zealand.

The enthusiasm and excitement among participants from different walks of life were abundantly evident and infectious.

The Indian Weekender partnered with many Yoga initiatives nationally and took the lead in covering generously many other events were partnership opportunity was not available for the benefit of the entire Indian diaspora in New Zealand who could not be present at these events.

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Enthusiastic International Yoga Day Celebrations in Wellington ¡¡ SOWMYA HIREMATH

The Indian Weekender

IANZ celebrates International Yoga Day with community ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

T

O

n a bright and sunny winter morning, about 70 yogis gathered to celebrate “International Yoga Day” on Sunday, June 18, 2017 at Bharat Bhavan, Wellington, which was organised by the Indian High Commission in New Zealand. This event was in collaboration with Art of Living, Bramha Kumaris Raja Yoga Centre and Wellington Indian Association.

Celebrations started with Ravi Mistry from Art of Living welcoming the yogis after which Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Sanjeev Kohli and Minister of Parliament Brett Hudson addressed the gathering. Mr Hudson quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s lines at United Nations, “Yoga embodies the unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfilment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. It is not about exercise but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.”

All the participants were guided through different Yoga asanas like Suryanamaskara

Friday, June 23, 2017

or Sun Salutations, fun Yoga for kids where everyone got to imitate different animals and then a meditation session that left everyone in a peaceful state of mind. The event concluded with some healthy refreshments like fruits and tea.

International Yoga Day celebrations were a great success with young and the old coming together to celebrate the health and wellbeing benefits of yoga, which is India’s gift to the world.

he Indian Association of New Zealand (IANZ) hosted a community Yoga session at Allen Brewster Recreation Centre in Papatoetoe, Auckland onInternational Yoga Day, Sunday, June 18.

The event organised in five sessions delivered by five different groups commenced at 9 am. The first session was delivered by Nonika Joura from the Art of Living Foundation. The session started with a warm up and a little aerobic to get the participants to stretch and flex their bodies.

An enthusiastic number of one hundred people from different age groups, professions and walks of life turned up to celebrate the event. This is the third annual Yoga Day celebrations by IANZ in the past three years.

“The aim of this big event is to raise the consciousness of Yoga amongst the community,” Ram Lingam, vice-president of IANZ said.

Art of Living, the globally recognised foundation for peace and Yoga lifted the spirits of the participants by making them laugh, exercise and perform the asanas.

The second session delivered more of an intensive body exercise where the moderator asked the participants to perform different asanas, benefits of which reflect on different parts of the body and the organs. This session of hot yoga was hosted by Ellen Adoko, founder of Achel Bikram Yoga.

Yoga is an exercise of not just the body but also for the mind and the soul. International Yoga Day celebrates the ancient science and encourages individuals throughout the world irrespective of their age, background or ability to restore mind and body to its healthy working.

Swami Atulananda from the Chinmaya

Mission hosted the next session of the yoga that concentrated on the spiritual aspects and benefits of Yoga. He commenced his session with the chant ‘Om’ that he calls purifies the mind, the soul and makes a person aware of his existence.

Devi from Brahma Kumaris and Gurpreet Sidhu hosted the last two session of Yoga concluding the event at 11 am.

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NEW ZEALAND

Friday, June 23, 2017

Yoga is key for a healthy body and mind ¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

T

he ancient Indian discipline can solve many of New Zealand’s mental health issues, was the message at Christchurch’s third International Day of Yoga celebrations; part two of the celebrations will take place next weekend hosted by the Canterbury Indian Women Group On the occasion of the International Day of Yoga in Christchurch, teachers and trainers made a case for using the ancient Indian discipline – based on an extremely subtle science which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body – to solve New Zealand’s grave mental health scenario. The event was organised by the city-based social organisation Indian Culture Group (ICG).

Mr Tilak Raj, a doctoral student at the Lincoln University, engaged in developing a yoga programme for improving sports performance in New Zealand said, “My experience with yoga for the last two decades certainly makes me believe that with yoga a synergy between one’s body, mind, emotions and spiritual energy can be attained. I urge both the government and various city councils to work with agencies and yoga practitioners to develop community programmes on similar lines. It can be an important aid in New Zealand’s fight against rising mental health cases.”

He along with Clare Davenport from Iyengar Yoga carried out interactive asanas session with over 50 participants at the celebrations.

The afternoon also witnessed a pranayama session with Aurora Smith from the Art of Living Foundation of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar,

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A booklet titled ‘Common Yoga Protocol’ issued by the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), Government of India, was also distributed to the participants.

“We tied-up with the Indian High Commission and various yoga teachers in and around Christchurch to make this event possible. Our coordinator Dr Aniket Puri, Intervention Cardiologist at the Christchurch Hospital, and his daughter, as part of her school project, also investigated the benefits yoga has on our blood pressure by recording the levels pre- and post-yoga sessions. We are also working on organising more yoga sessions throughout the year as part of our health series, which we initiated in 2014,” said Sandeep Sachdeva, President of ICG.

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The Indian Weekender

‘Betrayed’ migrant workers protest outside parliament ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

A

group of forty workers and families who have been in the country on and off since the past eight years are protesting outside parliament feeling “betrayed” by the Immigration New Zealand (INZ), demanding an immediate intervention by the government.

The group comprising several kids gathered in front of the parliament on Tuesday, June 20, raising slogans and demanding Ministerial intervention to be allowed to live permanently in the country.

The group largely comprises workers involved in the country’s infamous first-ever human trafficking trial which convicted two residents in 2015 with lesser charges of giving false statements to Immigration New Zealand officials.

Speaking to The Indian Weekender, Jasjeet Singh, one of the protestors said, “the group felt betrayed by the Immigration New Zealand after offering them full support in investigations related to immigration fraud.”

The saga began in 2009 when a group of 23 workers arrived from the Indian state of Punjab on a Limited Purpose Visa (Seasonal Work Visa) to work in a vineyard in Blenheim, only to be told in the first week by their employer that their services were not required anymore.

What started from there was a long saga of deceit, treachery and betrayal resulting in frustration and miseries for most of the workers in the country.

Apparently, these workers had spent huge sums of money in the range of $50,000 with

intermediaries who have sold them the promise of gaining residency in this country.

Based on these false promises, these workers were allegedly lured into the trap of filing “refugee visa” with INZ sighting falsified reasons of the threat of life back home in India.

The fraud investigation team of INZ had investigated the case, and offenders were prosecuted in the Nelson High Court, which had eventually convicted Kulwant Singh and Jaswinder Singh Sangha on the lesser charges of giving false statements to INZ officials.

While this information has been in the public domain, what has largely escaped public attention is the plight of those 23 workers who initially arrived on the seasonal work visa.

This group of 23 workers has now swelled into 40-something workers and families with many workers immediately returning to India, while family members of many others were flown in with the support of INZ to assist in court proceedings and safeguarding them from alleged perpetrators of human trafficking.

Apparently, many of these workers have willingly assisted the fraud investigating team of INZ, with in some cases their families being legitimately flown in from India on a promise of permanent immigration to New Zealand in return for giving evidence in courts.

“During the period of the trial we worked closely with the fraud investigating team on INZ, who facilitated our family’s visa,” Mr Singh said.

“Many family members in our group have repeatedly faced life threats by the same intermediaries who were responsible for our situation.

“Immigration officials have travelled to India at least on three separate occasions meeting our family members at Amritsar, Jalandhar and New Delhi,” Mr Singh claimed.

“Our family members have arrived in New Zealand on a valid work visa with the help of fraud investigating team of INZ solely on the assurance of permanent immigration and safeguarding from the perpetrators of human trafficking,” Mr Singh further claimed while speaking on behalf of group members.

Based on their understanding and assurances from INZ officials, members of this group have filed the application for permanent residency in Hamilton branch of INZ, which was eventually declined.

These workers and their respective families are in a precarious situation with their valid work visa having been expired on February 23.

On May 25, their application for permanent residency was further declined to add to their predicament.

These migrant workers and their families have risked a fortune and security of lives of their family members to assist INZ in successfully prosecuting the perpetrator of human trafficking.

There is a need to bring more compassion, empathy and sensitivity in overall response of INZ towards the plight of these workers.

The apparent absence of coordination and influence of fraud investigating team of INZ over the team responsible for finally approving residency in this country as many of the workers are alleging is neither acceptable nor good for the reputation of New Zealand.

The Indian Weekender’s queries with INZ were responded with a statement saying, “Immigration New Zealand can confirm that appeal rights are open to these individuals. It is not appropriate to comment given appeals are pending.”

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NEW ZEALAND

Friday, June 23, 2017

Auckland Eid Day to host a massive Eid event ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

R

amadan 2017 has been quite eventful for the Muslim community in New Zealand. Since its start on Sunday, May 28 the country has witnessed scores of Iftar parties organised by community organisations.

The Parliament in Wellington hosted an Iftar party in association with FIANZ, and even Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell, Auckland, hosted an Iftar party in association with the Human Rights Commission of New Zealand.

To conclude the holiest month of the Muslim community, Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated at the end of 30 days of fasting. Auckland Eid Day, a charitable organisation has been instrumental in bringing the community together irrespective of their faith and ethnicity under one roof to celebrate the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

The Indian Weekender spoke to Javed Dadabhai, the lead organiser of the Auckland Eid Day about the upcoming Eid event that will be held on Monday, June 26 or Tuesday, June 27 at Mt Smart Stadium premises in Penrose, Auckland.

donate clothes that they haven’t worn for a year or more so that it can be distributed amongst the homeless and someone in need.

IWK: Where is the event happening this year?

Javed: The event will take place at Mt Smart Stadium, and we request people to come through Maurice Road entrance. Depending on the sighting of the moon, the Eid prayers will be held either on Monday, June 26 or Tuesday, June 27. The Takbeer will start from 8:15 a.m. and the Eid prayer will start at 9 a.m.

The Indian Weekender will bring the live streaming of the Eid prayers from Mt Smart Stadium on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr.

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IWK: Tell us a little about Auckland Eid Day (AED)?

Javed: Auckland Eid Day is in its seventh year now and operates under Al-Manar Trust, Auckland. Eid is the biggest occasion for the Muslim community, and we help make this a big celebration for the community. We host two events every year, it is a bi-annual event, Eidul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha and we work to bring a big show for the people.

IWK: What happens at the Eid day carnival?

Javed: The event has a fixed Eid prayer in the morning, and everything revolves around it.

The event is very fluid, and the whole venue houses food stalls, clothing, entertainment and some small businesses, etc. The entertainment section has Muslim entertainments such as Nasheed and Quran recitation, poetry, clowns and illusionists, etc.

For the kids, we have bouncing castles, toy car rides, face painting, scarf and imitation jewellery counters and henna for women and delicacies from different countries like India, Malaysia, Turkey, Singapore, Pakistan, Syria, Iraq, etc.

IWK: What is the footfall and how many Muslim Indians come to the event?

Javed: We take in stating that at AED, we have around 5,000 people attending the Eid Namaz at a time, and it is the biggest congressional prayer in New Zealand.

In total, we get 12,000 visitors throughout the day. In the morning men, women and children come for the Eid namaz and leave by Dhuhr Namaz or after lunch and people who pray somewhere else come with their families to spend some time at the venue. There will be stage shows, and people can move around at the venue having a good family time. As an incentive, we also give goodie bags to children after every prayer.

IWK: Who will be the Imam for the prayer this year?

Javed: Every year we plan to get a new person to lead the Eid prayers, and this year the honour will go to President of FIANZ Hazim Arafeh.

IWK: Is anything special planned for Eid 2017?

Javed: It is going to be a chilly winter and to contribute our part in the community, we have organised a charity drive and have asked people to get their old clothes and non-perishable goods to donate to the needy. This is linking back to Zakat which is mandatory in Islam, and it should be given in Ramadan. People should

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Friday, June 23, 2017

Experiencing Iftar E

New Director of Office of Ethnic Communities

meets community leaders ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

T

he newly appointed director of the Office of Ethnic communities, Wen-Chin Powles, has met prominent community leaders and representatives in a meet and greet event hosted by the Office on Monday, June 19.

Mrs Powles brings a wealth of experience of over 30 years in public service with an emphasis on international diplomacy and expertise on culture and heritage to the current role in Office of Ethnic Communities.

Mrs Powles has held senior positions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) working on range of important relations for New Zealand including India and the United States (US) and holding diplomatic roles overseas such as in Beijing, the New Zealand Mission to the United Nations in New York, and Shanghai where Wen was the New Zealand Consul General (20062008).

In 2012-2014 Mrs Powles also worked as International Strategy Adviser at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, where she had the opportunity to lead delegations to China including of the iconic exhibition Kura Pounamu.

In that role, Mrs Powles also had a chance to engage with institutions in other parts of Asia, the Pacific and

The Indian Weekender

¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

xperiencing Iftar inside a mosque can be a revelation for many people especially for the non-Muslims. Every religion has some unique elements, which are revered by their respective followers whereas mystifies those from other religions. An opportunity to gain an insider perspective through an outsider’s eyes often helps in developing the much needed bridges between of trust and mutual respect between followers of different religions.

Towards this goal, and to witness how Ramadan and Iftar appears from the eyes of an outsider, The Indian Weekender dropped in at a Masjid in Mangere, Auckland, during a small Iftar party organised by a community member.

It is 4:30 in the afternoon and the streets of Sandringham and Stoddard Road get busy. Grocery stores and supermarkets are thronged by busy shoppers to buying fresh fruits, dates, snacks and missing items needed to prepare the Iftar.

It’s the last week of Ramadan 2017 and the holy month has passed by with a number of Iftar parties organised by different charity organisations, community organisations, mosques, parliament and even a church in Auckland. The Muslim community has adjusted their working hours to make sure they can devote more time to their families and spend quality time praying and remembering Allah.

At 4:30, members of the Masjid and the Iftar organising team at the Maunatul Islam Centre on Thomas Road in Mangere gets busy making

the Middle East.

Before joining the Office of Ethnic Communities in May, Mrs Powles was Director of the Confucius Institute at the Victoria University of Wellington. She and her team established collaborative language and cultural projects with Chinese universities, schools around New Zealand, teachers, musicians, composers, writers and scholars.

An ethnic migrant herself, Mrs Powles is quite well connected with Indian and other ethnic communities.

The Indian community in particular acknowledges and cherishes her deeply entrenched connections with the community. In an earlier role, she has also served as ex-officio Board member of India New Zealand Business Council - the premium body for promoting business between India and New Zealand.

Mrs Powles came to New Zealand from Malaysia in 1975 to study at the Victoria University, only to settle down permanently making Aotearoa her new home. Mrs Powles is married to Michael Powles, an accomplished former diplomat himself. Mrs Powles’ husband and daughter Nina, both are acclaimed writers.

Mrs Powles is passionate about arts (and still wishes she could be a jazz pianist) and is a Research Associate at Victoria University of Wellington’s Museum and Heritage Studies Department.

food boxes for the visitors. A separate arrangement in a different room is also done for the women to open their fast.

The Adhaan is due for 5:16 p.m. (precisely) and the Imam (cleric of the Masjid) starts chanting verses from the Holy Quran and the visitors at the mosque follow. In a short while, he raises his hands in du’a asking for forgiveness and blessings for the mass Iftar from Allah (swt).

While the du’a is recited in the Arabic language, the volunteers distribute the food packets to the visitors inside the Masjid.

It is the time for Adhaan and a very young boy, approximately of the age of 14 wearing a skull cap, places his two fingers in both his ears in front of the standing microphone facing the Qibla (direction in which Namaz is made) and calls ‘Allah-uAkbar-Allah-u-Akbar’ twice. This translates into ‘God is the Greatest’, and it is followed by another six calls with different meanings each praising Allah and asking the believers to come to the mosque and towards success.

With the first call of Adhaan, the visitors recite the du’a to open their fast and take a bite of a date and a sip of water.

The visitors open their fast with a box of fruit, some fried Indian snacks and a glass of juice. In the next 10 minutes, the Masjid floor is cleared of the food boxes, and everyone present inside assembles for the Maghrib Namaz. The Mu’ajjim (second to cleric) makes the Takbir and the people fall in the line beside each other behind the Imam facing the Qibla.

The Imam delivers the three-part obligatory Namaz followed by a du’a and then a supplementary 2-part Namaz is prayed individually.

Once the Namaz is over, the floor gets ready for dinner, and the rich traditional dishes of the community are served to the visitors, concluding the Iftar party.

The significance of Iftar is huge, and it is advised in the Hadith people to open their fast with their families and friends and invite both Muslims and non-Muslims to the Iftar table as it has great rewards.

This year the month of Ramadan started on Sunday, May 28 and depending on the sighting of the moon, it will be concluded with the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, which falls either on Monday, 26 or Tuesday, 27 June.

Almost all the Masjids will host the special Eid prayers at the Masjid premises or at a bigger community hall to accommodate the attendees.

This feast will continue for three days including the day of Eid where families, friends and community members invite and gift one another to celebrate the biggest festival of the Muslim community.

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The Indian Weekender

NEW ZEALAND

Friday, June 23, 2017

SOUTH LINE Jalsa Fiji Radio among

9

News-in-brief from South Island

finalists at NZ Radio Awards Its popular show Dip Chick Moments which plays 70s, 80s and latest Bollywood hits narrowly misses out to the eventual winner in the ‘best music programme in any language’ category ¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

S

tarted on October 19, 2014, and nominated for NZ Radio Awards in 2015 as well, Jalsa Fiji Radio – a community radio station owned and operated by the Fiji-Indian husband-wife duo of Vinesh and Rajneeta Prakash – which entertains Hindi-speaking audiences in Christchurch every weekend, has once again brought laurels to the community by being one of the three finalists at the just concluded NZ Radio Awards 2017.

Nominated under the ‘best music programme in any language’ category, Jalsa’s segment called Dip Chick Moments which plays ‘70s, ‘80s and latest Bollywood hits and is hosted by Ms Smrita Tiwari and Ms Rita Verma, is presented live via the Community Access Radio Plains FM 96.9, on Saturdays from 5.30pm. Other members of the Jalsa team include Avi, Krish, Monil and Sahil, who host Jalsa’s other segment (Saturdays from 7pm) called Desi Boys and Bad Boys Party.

New strategy for wellbeing of international students ¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

A

s a percusor to the International Education Strategy due later this month, a new wellbeing strategy for international students launched in Christchurch Salient points about NZ’s international students market:

¡¡ Fourth largest export industry ¡¡ Employs over 30,000 New Zealanders

¡¡ $750,000 available for initiatives

working for international students’ wellbeing

Online information hub will go live soon

The winning team!

“At Jalsa Fiji Radio, we do Bollywood gossip, party music, announce upcoming events, pass on important community news as well as present entertaining issues. Overall, our goal is to engage Hindi speaking audience in the Greater Christchurch area and spread community news,” Mr Prakash said.

And their efforts were well-

recognised during the award giving ceremony held in Auckland last week, when Jana Tangooni, Chairman of the Radio Industry Awards Committee, noted, “It was wonderful to celebrate the achievements of the finalists and winners but also the wider New Zealand radio industry which is thriving despite so much change in media consumption globally.”

Recognising the precarious situation international students – a majority from India – are increasingly finding themselves in New Zealand, the government last week launched a new wellbeing strategy in Christchurch targeted at that very segment.

“This initiative will help protect and enhance New Zealand’s reputation as a safe and welcoming study destination.

International education is our fourth largest export industry and provides jobs for more than 30,000 New Zealanders.

Thus it is vital that students have a high quality experience while

studying in New Zealand,” Paul Goldsmith, minister for tertiary education, skills and employment, said while launching the strategy at Christchurch’s Ara Institute of Canterbury.

This comes on the back of a new pastoral code that was introduced last year that was aimed at strengthening pastoral responsibilities of education providers.

And the wellbeing strategy will be followed by a draft International Education Strategy for New Zealand, which will be released for consultation later this month.

“Education New Zealand now has a dedicated staff member whose focus is on delivery of a high quality experience for international students. We are also building an online information hub that will bring together information about life and study in New Zealand.

In addition $750,000 per year is being made available for new initiatives that align with the strategy and strengthen international student wellbeing.

“The new wellbeing strategy builds on this progress, setting out focus areas that international students have told us make the biggest difference to their study experience,” Mr Goldsmith concluded.

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NEW ZEALAND

As community iftaars end,

Christchurch gears up for Eid celebrations

Pakistani Association of Canterbury and the Canterbury Muslim Community Trust hosted the gatherings over the past two weekends ¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

this Ramadan, which is intended as sadaqa (charity). Separately, the Pakistani Association of Canterbury NZ (PACNZ) with membership of over 200 Pakistanis living in the country also organised a community iftaar on June 10.

Mr Kaleem Khan, President of PACNZ, who has been in New Zealand for over 14 years informed, “We had a gathering of over 200 people; not only from Pakistan but some of our friends from India and Bangladesh also attended.

“We had traditional food and there were some fun games for children as well. We also had a cupcake icing competition for children and distributed prizes to the winners. Now, the community is looking forward to the Eid celebrations scheduled for the week starting June 26, depending on the moon-sighting.”

C

arrying forward the success of its first community iftaar in early June, the Canterbury Muslim Community Trust (CMCT), organised two more iftaars on June 10 and 17 in Christchurch, which were again very well attended.

Organisers noted that over 300 people attended each event, with the Indonesian community sharing how Ramadan is celebrated in their home country, on June 10. CMCT trustee Mr Ibrahim Abdelhalim and his children’s Quran group also provided some entertainment to the gathering on the day.

Meanwhile, CMCT has also launched an appeal in the community to help support the Christchurch Muslim Community Food Bank

Friday, June 23, 2017

Indian government revamps E-visa for international visitors

T

he Indian government has recently revamped the E-Visa scheme for international travellers to India including those from New Zealand seeking to travel India solely for the purpose of recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives, short duration medical treatment or casual business visit.

This visa facility is in addition to the existing visa services available at the Indian High Commission, Wellington.

Since the entire E-Visa application process is online and does not require any facilitation from any intermediary or agent, the High Commission is advising everyone to be mindful of any unscrupulous elements claiming speedy or express grant of E-Visa and charging any fees for that ‘non-existent’ service.

Key instruction for E-Visa

• The E-visa has three subcategories – e-Tourist Visa, e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa with an available option of clubbing all these three categories.

• Double entry is permitted on E-Tourist Visa and E-Business Visa.

• Triple Entry will be permitted on E-Medical visa and can only be issued twice a year.

• The applicants of the eligible countries many apply online minimum four days in advance of the date of arrival. The holders of E-visa are entitled to stay up to a maximum of 60 days in the country, and the validity of visa will be for 120 days.

• There is a mandatory requirement of applicant’s passport having at least a sixmonth validity from the date of arrival in India and should have at least two blank

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• E Visa fee once submitted will be nonrefundable as the fees for processing for the application and independent of a grant or rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

• Applicants are required to carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) at all times along with them at the time of travel.

• The applicant will have to ensure that their Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) status is shown as ‘GRANTED’ on the website prior to the commencement of journey.

• Biometric details of applicants will be mandatorily captured at immigration on arrival in India.

• E-Visas are not non-extendable and nonconvertible.

The E-visa fee payment status updating may take up to 4 hours due to technical reasons/ network delays. In cases, where E-visa fee has been deducted but status is not updated, the applicants are advised to verify their payment status by clicking on ‘Verify Payment/ Pay Visa Fee’ tab or by clicking in the link Verify Payment in the website link https:// indianvisaonline.gov.in

The Indian Weekender

NEW ZEALAND

Friday, June 23, 2017

Easy, fast and friendly vehicle finance A trusted name in vehicle finance since 1970, MTF is a New Zealand company with a nationwide network of over 40 offices.

A little closer to home, Dolly and Kaushik Gorasia have just recently established MTF Botany, and are already financing locals into personal and business loans.

Located at 12F Amera Place, Huntington Park (in the same complex as Animates), MTF Botany not only helps with purchase of cars, motorbikes, boats, trailers, and jet skis but also enables businesses to refinance existing assets.

They offer options for new immigrants trying to settle into New Zealand, help those with learner licences, and assist people who are job hunting whilst they are on Work and Income support in addition to helping small to medium business owners with their vehicle and fleet requirements.

They also assist SMEs with their working capital requirement as they can finance plant and machinery, equipment as well. Recently, MTF Botany has worked with a lot of our fellow migrants, providing finance for cars/ vans for use as Uber and Courier drivers.

Owner of the franchise Dolly Gorasia and her husband Kaushik say that they offer finance 24/7.

“If you go online even after-hours and apply for a loan, we can process an application in half an hour after doing anaffordability assessment and ensuring Responsible Lending. We are

11

fast, have no hidden costs and our interest rates are competitive with banks,” she says.

Rajesh Chandan, sales consultant for MTF Botany says that with his experience of 30 years in the car sales industry, he understands the requirements of vehicle finance customers.

He also points out that if you have the finance in hand, you have a better bargaining power when you go shopping for a vehicle.

“Just recently we had a client who wanted funds for transfer to family overseas for medical reasons and we were able to help him using their existing car as collateral, the client was extremely pleased with the speed with which we assisted him in solving his issue” he says.

“Also, being New Zealand owned, the money goes to the community in New Zealand.” To that end, they are supporting Hospice New Zealand by donating $5 from each loan written with MTF Botany.

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A decade of hard work evolves a success formula in Tutoring

E

very parent wants the best for their child and we all know that academic success helps pave the way to a bright future.

But what do you do if your child isn’t achieving their full potential at school? Maybe they’re struggling to grasp basic concepts, or doing well, but you know they have the ability to do even better!

That’s where Brilliance Educare Centre in Mt Roskill plays a lead role.

Brilliance was established a decade ago by husband-wife duo, well qualifiedand experienced teachers Raji Chacko (M.Sc., B Ed, PGDME) and Lotus Raji (M.Sc., M.Ed.) with an aim to provide quality tutoring and to provide the missing link between hard work and outstanding grades.

True to the motto of Brilliance- ‘Aiming for excellence?’-hundreds of students have achieved excellent school grades and are studying in leading universities or have entered into professional careers after completing prestigious courses in university.

Raji and Lotus, together with a team of skilled teachers from leading schools in Auckland provide quality tutoring for primary, intermediate and secondary school children in a comprehensive range of subjects including Mathematics, Science, English and Accounting, for the NCEA, Cambridge and IB Syllabus.

Small class sizes ensure each child receives plenty of one on one attention and the fees are also very reasonable, with flexible payment

options available.

“Most of our students do extension maths and science in school. We have many year 9 students doing year 11 maths, year 12s doing year 13 subjects and so on. This will help them to study additional subjects in year 13, to ensure more points to enter University,”Mr. Chacko said.

Mr. Chacko is very popular because of his innovative teaching methods and short cut tricks to make mathematics easier and more enjoyable. He is known as ‘The Mathemagician’ among the students for his amazing speed and accuracy in solving mathematical problems. Many students feel that an hour session with him is worth more than a week’s work in school.

Brilliance is conducting tuitions for university maths and scholarship subjects as well. Many students have gained scholarship over a wide range of subjects in last 10 years.

Whether your child requires remedial help or a stimulating extension programme, Brilliance Educare Centre’s quality tutoring will give them the confidence, skills and knowledge to go further in life.

Brilliance is located at 20 Frost Rd, opposite Mt Roskill Primary School.

For further information, phone 624 0829 / 6204690/ 02102405015 or visit www.brillianceducare.co.nz.

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KIWIZEALAND NEW INDIAN HALL OF FAME 2017

Thursday, June 23, 2017

The Indian Weekender

New wellbeing strategy for international students Dr Parmjeet Parmar

I

C re a te Y O U R D R E A M D AY I N T H E WA I R A R A PA WITH OUR WEDDING & ACCOMMODATION PACKAGES

National List MP

nternational education is hugely important to New Zealand. It contributes around $4.5 billion to our economy and employs more than 30,000 New Zealanders.

This sector relies heavily on New Zealand’s international reputation. Prospective students want to know they’ll be safe and treated well, and that they’ll receive a quality education.

The National-led Government has recently launched the International Student Wellbeing Strategy, which will help to protect and enhance our reputation as a safe and welcoming study destination.

It’s important that we back the international education export industry and the thousands of Kiwis employed in it. Our approach is to work with the industry to steadily improve outcomes, rather than threatening large parts of it.

In addition to the strengthened pastoral responsibilities of education providers introduced in 2016, Education New Zealand now has a dedicated staff member whose focus is on delivery of a high quality experience for international students.

The new wellbeing strategy builds on this progress, setting out focus areas that international students have told us make the biggest difference to their study experience.

Access to accurate information is particularly important for international students, so Education New Zealand is building an online information hub that will bring together information about life and study in New Zealand.

In addition $750,000 per year is being made available for new initiatives that align with the strategy and strengthen international student wellbeing.

This strategy reinforces our commitment to the wellbeing of our international students, to ensure they feel welcomed and acknowledge their contribution to New Zealand.

In addition to this recent launch of the International Student Wellbeing Strategy, a draft International Education Strategy for New Zealand, which sets out the Government’s vision for international education, will be released for consultation later this month.

The National-led Government is delivering better results for our education sector and making sure those who come here to learn are not being treated as second-class citizens.

First NZ Telugu feature film announced

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ew Zealand is set to witness the first Telugu language film to be shot and produced in the country. ‘7-Steps’ or ‘Edu Adugulu’ will be made under the banner of Red Films and Tanya Arts Entertainment.

Tanya Mehra, based in Auckland is an International Marketing Personnel in Real Estate, an entrepreneur, an actor and a model will be playing a major role in the film and is also its executive producer of the film. The film will be directed by Santosh Tukkapuram.

The poster release ceremony of the film was held at India Gate Restaurant in Auckland on Tuesday, June 20 at 10 a.m. The poster was unveiled by renowned businessman and New Zealand People Party’s leader Roshan Nauhria.

At the small gathering for the ceremony, actress and producer Tanya Mehra expressed her passion for acting as she narrated her journey penetrating into the entertainment industry.

“I do not know Telugu but when Santosh, the director of the film read the script to me, I couldn’t help but say yes to the project,” Ms Mehra told The Indian Weekender.

Tanya debuted at a very young age in a TV series on Doordarshan as a child artist.

She has ever since associated herself with the

entertainment industry doing short films and other small roles in feature films.

Tanya, also a classical dancer, has also played a small role in the upcoming Indian science fiction film Robot 2.0 that stars Rajinikanth in the lead and Akshay Kumar as the protagonist.

The cast of 7-Steps will include some popular names from the entertainment industry in Hyderabad. The production team will shoot some scenes of the film in Hyderabad and the majority of the film will be shot in New Zealand. The locations include Auckland, parts of North Island, Queenstown and Invercargill.

The film comes with an approximate budget of $500,000 and will be dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam and will have English subtitles in the Telugu version.

“This is the first Telugu film being shot in New Zealand. We have more 10,000 Telguites living in Auckland alone and with this film, we will create a new benchmark and hope to see more of such vernacular language films are made in New Zealand,” Santosh, director of the film said.

The film will release in India, New Zealand, Australia, The United States and the UK is yet to be confirmed.

The crew of 20 members will travel from Hyderabad to New Zealand later this year and shoot the film in the 45-days schedule.

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The Indian Weekender

Friday, June 23, 2017

India chips in US$1m for Fiji’s COP23 presidency ¡¡IWK BUREAU

F

ijian Prime Minister and Incoming COP23 President Frank Bainimarama on Monday, June 19, received a cheque donation of FJD$2.02 million (US$1 million) from the Indian Government in support of Fiji’s Presidency of the United Nations ongoing climate negotiations, COP23.

COP23 is the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Climate Change, the governing body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, of

which Fiji holds the post of President.

Prime Minister Bainimarama received the cheque from the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Vishvas Sapkal, at a ceremony in Suva.

Prime Minister Bainimarama thanked the Indian Government for the assistance, which he said would go directly toward Fiji’s extensive preparations for COP23, to be held in Bonn, Germany in November.

“We are deeply grateful for this support from the Indian Government as Fiji looks to defend the multilateral consensus achieved under the Paris

Agreement on Climate Change to reduce carbon emissions. COP23 is shaping up to be one of the most important COPs yet, given the US decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. And we are very glad to see the global community be galvanised into action in support of the Fijian Presidency,” he said.

High Commissioner Sapkal said India stood in solidarity with Fiji and other Pacific Island Countries to highlight the effects of climate change on vulnerable island countries.

High Commission records big crowd on yoga day

F

iji celebarted International Day of Yoga ind Suva last week.

Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Vishvas Sapkal said yoga is a gift to mankind by ancient Indian tradition and it is a union of mind, body, and intellect.

“Yoga is not just a physical exercise but it reduces stress and tension in our everyday life, Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Mahendra Reddy, said yoga can contribute in a holistic way to achieving a balance and stability in the mind and body.

He said the Ministry of Education, Heritage, and Arts in its continued pursuit to deliver excellence in schools had implemented a yoga programme in all schools around the

L-R (Sitting):Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts Dr Mahendra Reddy (fourth from left) and Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Vishvas Sapkal (fifth from left) during the Press Conference

country last year on the International Day of Yoga.

“This step was primarily taken in consideration of the benefits of yoga to our physical, and mental health; our personal and national peace and harmony.”

The event was organised by the Indian High Commission in partnership with the Ministry of

Education and the Ministry of Local Government.

The celebration of International Yoga Day will be held at Albert Park, Suva on June 21st (Wednesday) from 9am-12pm; similar events will be held in Lautoka and Labasa.

The Theme for the day is: Yoga for Health.

FIJI

India state ministry officials in Fiji to boost agriculture

Harayan delegation leader Dr Om Prakash (thrid from right) and local government delegations take their seat at the Indian High Commission

A

delegation from the State of Haryana, India, is in the country to help the country in the agriculture sector.

The Haryana State officials are interested in helping the Fijian Government in areas of potato, sugar cane, dairy and vegetable farming on a larger scale.

The delegation consists of Agriculture State Minister of Haryana Om Prakash Dhankar, officials of the Ministry, and public representatives from Haryana.

The delegation met their Fijian counterparts from the Ministry of Agriculture.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture Viam Pillay, and Permanent Secretary for Agriculture Jitendra Singh, met the delegation yesterday at the Indian High Commission in Suva.

Agriculture State Minister of Haryana Mr Dhankar during the meeting said that the Haryana state was looking forward to working with the Fijian Government in the agriculture field.

“Fiji and India have a long history and it mainly has to do with agriculture.

“The first Indians were brought to

Fiji to work on sugar cane farms,” Mr Dhankar said.

“Through this visit, the Haryana state plans to refresh this relationship we forged years ago.

“We are looking forward to working with the Fijian Government to restart farming.”

Permanent secretary Mr Singh welcomed and thanked the Haryana state delegation for the visit.

“Haryana produces cereals, rice and dairy and many other products but we are we are looking at these areas of co-operation in future with the state,” Mr Singh said.

“I convey my appreciation on behalf of the Fijian Government to the government of India for the support and aid provided to the people of Fiji especially for supplying the 5.5 tonnes of seeds after cyclone Winston,” he said.

“This helped in the rehabilitation of the agriculture sector. We have discussed various areas of cooperation that can exist between the state of Haryana and Fiji and we will be exploring some of these areas through the Indian High Commission of Fiji.”

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P

INDIA

laying the Dalit card, the BJP on Monday, June 19, threw a surprise by nominating Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA choice for the President’s post, stunning the opposition which accused the ruling party of unilateralism.

Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah announced the name of Kovind, 71, after a nearly two-hour meeting of the BJP parliamentary board attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others, ending all suspense about the NDA’s candidature for the top constitutional post.

Though the main opposition parties did not criticise Kovind, who emerged as a dark horse, they kept their cards close to the chest on whether they would back him.

Barring the TRS and the BJD which expressed support to Kovind, all other non-BJP parties accused the ruling party of unilateralism and will meet here on Thursday to finalise their strategy for the July 17 battle. Union Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu insisted that all parties were consulted.

On his part, the soft-spoken Kovind said he would appeal to all political parties and members of the electoral college to back him.

“We have decided that Ram Nath Kovind will be the NDA Presidential candidate,” Shah told the media, adding he was likely to file his nomination.

Modi said Kovind would make an “exceptional” President and called him a strong voice for the poor and the marginalised communities.

“With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Kovind’s knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation.” If elected, Kovind will be the second Dalit President after K.R. Narayanan.

A former head of the BJP Dalit wing and a twotime Rajya Sabha member, the low-key Kovind, who hails from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, became the Bihar Governor after Modi stormed to power in May 2014. A sulking Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray disapproved of caste being the basis for Presidency. But another BJP ally, Ramvilas Paswan of the Lok Janshakti Party, said those who oppose Kovind will be considered anti-Dalit.

Opposition leaders reacted cautiously.

BSP chief Mayawati, a Dalit leader herself, said Kovind cannot be opposed unless the opposition fielded a popular Dalit nominee.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar called on Kovind immediately after Shah’s announcement.

Friday, June 23, 2017

The Indian Weekender

Dark horse Ram Nath Kovind A is NDA Presidential candidate

India-US trade win-win situation: India

Court and the Supreme Court.

An unassuming man, Kovind worked through the ranks to become a national spokesperson of the BJP. He headed the BJP’s Dalit wing for three years from 1999.

But he was non-committal on whether his Janata Dal-United will support Kovind.

He said he congratulated Kovind on his nomination. “I am personally glad he is the presidential candidate.”

As to whether the JD-U will back his candidature, Nitish Kumar said: “It is difficult to say at this point of time. I had talks with (RJD chief) Lalu Prasad and (Congress President) Sonia Gandhi. We will discuss later and decide.”

“All the opposition parties had collectively decided on evolving a consensus on the Presidential candidate when leaders of 18 parties met recently,” he said. Sitaram Yechury of the CPI-M struck a different note. “Kovindji was the chief of the RSS Dalit branch.

So somewhere it is a political fight or a contest. We are not commenting or giving any character certificate to anyone.” He said the BJP leaders had promised to seek the opposition’ consent on the Presidential candidate which did not happen.

An advocate by profession, Kovind was a Rajya Sabha member for 12 years and a member of several parliamentary panels. He had practised law in both the High

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head of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US, the Commerce Ministry on Tuesday, June 20, said bilateral trade was a “win-win” situation for both the countries even though the balance of trade was not in America’s favour.

The US had started a review of its trade policy with countries with which it has adverse trade balance, Commerce Secretary Rita Teaotia told the media here.

“India is 9th on that list... but we are confident that Indian exports to the US are a win-win for both the countries,” she said.

“Our products are cheaper, while the Indian information technology supports the American industry to be much more competitive,” she added. The officer said that where the US government procurement rules required so, Indian companies, like in the pharmaceuticals sector, had set up plants in the US. “On the other hand, many US companies find it profitable to serve from India and they have thus set up base here,” Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, citing the latest agreement by a US major to manufacture fighter aircraft in India.

Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems Limited on Monday signed an agreement to produce the F-16 Block 70 fighter jet aircraft in India.

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KUMBLE QUITS Friday, June 23, 2017

The Indian Weekender

SPORTS

21

It is being speculated that a rift between skipper Virat Kohli and Kumble has led to this situation

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egendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble has decided against continuing as the head coach of the Indian cricket team, it was announced on Tuesday, June 20.

“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirms that Anil Kumble has withdrawn his services as the head coach for the senior India men’s team,” BCCI said.

“While the Cricket Advisory Committee had endorsed an extension to his tenure as head coach, Anil Kumble has decided not to continue in the post,” it added.

According to reports, Kumble, whose one-year tenure was scheduled to end at the conclusion of the ICC Champions Trophy in England and Wales,

stayed back in England instead of travelling with the team for their next assignment in the West Indies.

The Indian team on Tuesday left for the West Indies, where they are to play five One-day Internationals (ODI) and a solitary T20 International. BCCI Acting Secretary Amitabh Choudhary appreciated Kumble for his successful stint with the Indian team, especially in the Test format. With Kumble as coach, India regained the top-ranked status in the five-day version of the game with consecutive victories over the West Indies, New Zealand, Bangladesh, England and Australia.

He also coached the One-Day International (ODI) side to the final of the Champions Trophy in England. In the final, India suffered a huge 180-run

loss to Pakistan.

“We wish to place on record our sincere appreciation for the immense contribution by Anil Kumble to the team which enabled India to attain the No.1 Test position,” Choudhary said.

“Indian cricket needs his continued contribution in various capacities and wishes him all the best in his future endeavour.”

Earlier, reports of a rift between skipper Virat Kohli and Kumble had emerged, prompting the BCCI to advertise for the post of head coach just before the team landed in England for the Champions Trophy.

Pakistan team gets hero’s welcome back home

P

akistan players were accorded a hero’s welcome upon returning home as hundreds of supporters stayed up late to welcome the just-crowned ICC Champions Trophy winners.

Pakistan defied all odds to thrash favourites India by 180 runs and lift the Champions Trophy for the first time. In the early hours of Tuesday morning, large crowds gathered at airports in Karachi and Lahore eagerly awaiting the return of the champions, the Dawn reported.

In a video shared on skipper Sarfraz Ahmed’s Twitter page, the captain was seen shouting

Pakistan celebrate after winning the Champions Trophy at the Oval on Sunday

“Pakistan...Pakistan...” holding the trophy aloft as thousands of locals egged him on and brought

the roof down.

Sarfraz, who led from the front including a crucial knock of 61 in a do-or-die Group A match against Sri Lanka, saw the entire street leading to his house decorated as he arrived with pacer Ruman Raees at 4:45 a.m. in Karachi.

According to an article in the Dawn, fans also unfurled a 70-foot long national flag and carried it in the street as Sarfaraz drove home in a special convoy provided by the Sindh provincial government.

There were selfies flashing everywhere as the supporters did not miss the opportunity to bathe in the euphoria and keep the piece of memory with them. Sarfraz and Rumman, according to the report, were presented with traditional Sindhi shawls and caps.

“We have created a legacy. I believe this victory will not be forgotten, it will always be remembered,” Sarfaraz was quoted as saying.

Nine of the Pakistan squad members were playing in the Champions Trophy for the first time. Sarfraz lauded his young guns and added

seniors too did their jobs admirably.

“Our seniors have performed excellently in important matches,” he said.

“It is a good sign for Pakistan that the young players performed well. Winning the trophy was difficult. It was a team effort,” the 30-year-old added. Player-of-the-tournament Hasan Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Babar Azam, and Ahmed Shehzad were presented with bouquets by the Punjab provincial ministers when they arrived at Lahore, the Dawn reported. Pakistan punched above wight after losing their first game to India by 124 runs.

They got lucky as Duckworth-Lewis helped them beat South Africa and then a stunning performance saw the lowly side edge past Sri Lanka into the semi-finals.

Pitted against England, who had not lost a game till then and looked in red hot form, the 1992 World Cup champions shocked one and all by pulverizing the hosts to reach the final.

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Thought of the week “It requires strength to stand up for yourself.

It requires even greater strength to stand up for others”

– Robert Moore

Editorial

The Funny bone

A week is long time in politics: Has Labour regained some ground?

T

his week in New Zealand politics was an apt reminder of Harold Wilson’s famous quote that “a week is a long time in politics,” when Prime Minister Bill English found himself momentarily entangled in the Todd Barclay’s investigation.

Since it is not the intention of this piece to make a statement with confidence that the Labour Party has regained some ground in the last week of New Zealand politics, therefore it delves into, rather than answer the question, which is currently animating the minds of many Kiwis.

Has Labour regained some ground in the last week of NZ politics?

According to the Newshub Reid-Research poll that came a week before, the Labour Party had recorded a significant drop of 4.4 per cent down to 26.4 per cent – its lowest result on the same poll since the last election.

Despite Labour Leader Andrew Little’s shrugging off that poll results as something trivial which does not necessarily tells what real New Zealanders are telling Mr Little, the question persists in the minds of many Kiwis, if the Party has regained some ground this week.

Although Mike Hosking of NewstalkZB has summarily discounted the whole Todd Barclay fiasco as something trivial and insignificant for the real people out there who face real issues like jobs and taxes, thus relegating the issue for some “political obsessive” without making any impact on Mr English.

The conventional wisdom in media commentary is suggesting otherwise.

NZ Herald Political Editor Audrey Young is critical of the blatant absence of any regret from Mr English. “The disturbing part about the events of this week at Parliament is the lack of contrition from English,” Ms Young commented. Similarly, Claire Trevett, Herald’s Deputy Political Editor comments that Bill English’s integrity was previously seen as a strong point, which has been now questioned.

The list is long and illustrious in the mainstream media, who are taking away some points from the National Party and Prime Minister Bill English.

Indeed, some points are to be taken away from the National Party, but it is not yet clear which party will gain those points as Winston Peters and Andrew Little continue to claim those points on high moral grounds.

RNZ Political Editor Jane Patterson has already taken some points away from the National Party and Bill English and given it away to the Labour Party.

However, it is not yet crystal clear who will be gaining those points.

From a Kiwi-Indian voter’s perspective, which appears least connected with Bill English’s current moment of discomfort in national politics, at some other times, any fall in National Party’s numbers would have automatically translated into Labour’s ascendency.

But not in current times of elections with a heightened pitch around immigration numbers, where the community is extra sensitive toward whom it perceives can provide strong leadership to the country.

In that regard, the community has been comparatively warm toward Prime Minister Bill English, who seems to have the momentum with him after inheriting power from the previous Prime Minister John Key. Therefore, a question mark on Mr English’s ability to handle a crisis situation, if not on integrity, can potentially make some opening for the Labour Party within the Kiwi-Indian community.

However, nothing stated above proves beyond doubt that Labour would have automatically gained points within the Kiwi-Indian community. There is no substitute for getting their political messaging right within the community.

Indian Weekender : Volume 9 Issue 14 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.

Auckland Weather forecast for the week June 24 - June 30

Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu Fri Partly sunny

Sunny

Sunshine and partly cloudy

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Rain Mostly with not cloudy, a much little rain rain 16° 10°

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This week in New Zealand’s history 30 June 1939 First issue of New Zealand Listener published

C

over of the first issue of the NZ Listener (Alexander Turnbull Library, S-L-1249COVER) Free to all radio licence holders, the New Zealand Listener soon expanded beyond its original brief to publicise radio programmes.

Today it is the country’s only national weekly current affairs and entertainment magazine.

29 June 1990 World’s first female Anglican bishop appointed

D

r Penny Jamieson’s rise through church ranks was rapid. The first women were ordained to the Anglican priesthood in New Zealand in 1977. Jamieson was ordained and appointed to a Wellington parish in 1985.

28 June 1973 HMNZS Otago sails for Mururoa test zone

P

rime Minister Norman Kirk told the 242 crew of the Otago that their Mururoa mission was an ‘honourable’ one − they were to be ‘silent witness[es] with the power to bring alive the conscience of the world’.

24

INDIAN ABROAD

Friday, June 23, 2017

The Indian Weekender

Indians, Chinese perform yoga at Great Wall

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bout 150 yoga enthusiasts practiced various poses of India's ancient physical discipline at China's iconic Great Wall on the eve of International Yoga Day. It made for a spectacular sight when young yoga lovers, mostly Chinese and wearing red T-shirts which bore the words "Incredible India", performed advanced 'asanas' (postures) at the neverending Great Wall.

This was a first such yoga event on the Great Wall. It was organised by the Indian Embassy in Beijing which with other consulates has been promoting the discipline.

In 2014, the UN declared June 21 as International Yoga Day. India's Minister of State for External Affairs V.K. Singh, who attended the BRICS Foreign Ministers' meet which concluded on Monday, also participated in the event.

"Yoga makes me happy," a smiling 30-yearold Wang Ken said. She said she quit her job to be a yoga teacher. Her dream is to visit India, the land of yoga. The Indian embassy in Beijing was assisted by the Chinese People's

Beijing- Celebration of the third International Day of Yoga underway at the Great Wall of China on June 20

Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and Yogi Yoga, a popular yoga school. Chinese are increasingly becoming prosperous but mental stress is also on the rise. And that's the reason they are taking up yoga," Mohan Singh Bhandari, founder of Yogi Yoga, said. Bhandari has been teaching yoga in China since 2003.

The event is a cultural milestone, marking the first time yoga has been performed atop the Great Wall by a joint Indian and Chinese group of yogis, the Embassy said.

The Indian government had sent 20 advanced yoga practitioners as Yoga Ambassadors for the event. Over the years, yoga is gaining popularity in China where the ancient Indian discipline was introduced in 1989.

Yoga institutes are on the rise. Beijing has over 1,000 such institutes.

India for more dialogue with China

I

ndia looks forward to more mutual dialogue with China, Minister of State for External Affairs Gen. V.K. Singh said as he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the eve of BRICS Foreign Minsters' meet.

India also wanted to deepen strategic ties with China, the visiting minister said.

Ties between the two countries have taken a hit over a host of issues which range from India's objection to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to China's continuous opposition to New Delhi's membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

"India looks forward to strengthening and deepening its strategic partnership and mutual dialogue," Singh said at the Diaoyutai State

Guesthouse. He called the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit at Astana as "fruitful and constructive". "They laid down directions for us and for both the countries for mutual respect and mutual cooperation," he said. China said the Foreign Ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa would have a candid discussion on terrorism. India might raise the issue of China blocking the ban on Pakistani militant Masood Azhar at the UN. Azhar, head of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group, is wanted in India for the January 2016 terror attack at the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot in Punjab.

Sikh community helps London blaze survivors

T

he Sikh community in London has opened its doors to survivors of the deadly Grenfell Tower fire that has left hundreds homeless.

Harjinder Kukreja, a community member from a gurdwara at Ealing, said: “Sikh gurdwaras in London have started collecting and distributing spare clothes, toys, toiletries for Grenfell Tower evacuees.

“The evacuees only have what they’re wearing. We need to support them with spare necessities,” the Metro daily quoted him as saying.

The blaze in the tower block in the West London district of North Kensington on Wednesday has left 12 dead. Police say the toll is expected to rise.

Khalsa Aid, the Sikh disaster relief operation that brought comfort to Somerset Levels during the dreadful floods of 2014, was also helping

people of the tower.

“We’ve only brought water for now, but the plan is to get our 24/7 breakfast operation up and running as soon as we can,” said graphics designer Gobind Singh, 33, the Daily Mail reported.

The Sikh community was also praised for helping people in the wake of the Manchester terror attack of May 22 that killed 22 people.

St. Clements Church on Treadgold Street has turned into an evacuation centre following the Grenfell Tower tragedy. The Muslim community also rushed to help the affected residents.

Muslims in the tower, awake at 1 a.m. due to Ramadan, acted as life-savers, alerting other residents and helping people to get out of the burning building, media reports said.

Twenty people badly burnt in the fire tragedy are fighting for their lives in hospitals.

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ENTERTAINMENT

26

Friday, June 23, 2017

The Indian Weekender

AUCKLAND’S HOTTEST BOLLYWOOD STATION

Sridevi is world’s best actress for me: Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Manisha excited to clean river Bagmati

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ctress Manisha Koirala, who has been appointed as the goodwill ambassador of Bagmati clean-up mega campaign, says she is “excited and committed” to be a part of this intiative.

Manisha took to Twitter to share a photograph of a group of people cleaning up with river.

“Excited and committed to be with all the genuine people’s efforts to clean Bagmati,” Manisha captioned the image.

The 46-yearold actress also shared that she is looking forward for a “fruitful collaboration to do something constructive”.

“Ready to start now! may efforts are already made and many more to come but the thing is to do our bit with full sincerity! Bagmati. Bagmati safaai maha Abhiyaan. Nepal,” Manisha captioned an image of herself and an official letter from the government of Nepal. On the silver screen, Manisha’s latest silver screen appearance was in Dear Maya released in early June this year. The film tells the story about a woman named Maya Devi, who left everything to find love.

incidentally, was the directorial debut of ollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, another ad maker, Gauri Shinde. who is gearing up for his forthcoming film Now, we hear the upcoming thriller MOM, says Sridevi is world’s best actress is also Sridevi’s 300th film. And to mark for him. the milestone, a Chennai-based sari The Bajrangi Bhaijaan actor, who donned the seller and super fan of the actress has avatar of ‘Shiksha Superhero’ for P&G Shiksha introduced an eponymous series of event said, “My admiration for her was since saris inspired by some of her greatest beginning, even before I thought of working with celluloid hits and available in the actress.While talking to the media, Nawazuddin, four colours. There’s the blue who is playing a pivotal role in the film, is in all chiffon from Mr India’s sensuous praises for Sridevi and said, “ If one gets a chance to rain sequence, Kaate Nahi Katate, work with such a brilliant actor then who will think the yellow sari from the title track of leaving the opportunity? Same was my case and I personally believe that Srideviji is world’s in Chandni, the understated maroon best actress. in nine yards from English Vinglish Recently, during the trailer launch of the film and the pristine white “If MOM, Sridevi was also all praise of the actor from the 19 91 one gets a and also went on saying that she is a huge romance-drama, chance to work admirer of his work and have so much Lamhe. respect for him as an actor. Sridevi, who with such a brilliant actor then who will marked her acting comeback in 2012 with English Vinglish, is all set to impress her think of leaving the opportunity? mettle yet again in intense drama Mom. Mom is produced by Zee Studios, Boney Kapoor and Sunil Manchanda’s Mad Films in association with Thirdeye Pictures and is slated to release on July 7 in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi. Nawazuddin Siddiqui was in the national capital to promote P&G Shiksha initiative, which works for the underprivileged children.

He added that it feels great to witness the difference that this movement has made by building and supporting more than 1,000 schools that will impact the lives of more than one million children across India.

Sridevi saris to mark her 300th film

Ravi Udyawar’s Hindi film debut, Mom, marks his leading lady Sridevi’s comeback to films after the 2012 hit dramedy English Vinglish which,

Anil Kapoor proud that Ireland chose Indian origin leader

Regrets are worse than

mistakes: Randeep Hooda

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ctor Randeep Hooda says one should not be scared to go after one’s dreams as “regrets are worse than mistakes”.

Asked what advice he would like to give to youngsters, Randeep said: “Do what your heart desires, because there is nothing called talent in the world ... there is only enthusiasm.”

“Anything that you are enthusiastic about, you are going to excel at. But don’t be disrespectful (towards your parents). Do not wake up later in your life when your parents are gone and say, ‘Why I didn’t do this’. Regrets are worse than mistakes,” he added.

Hailing from Rohtak, in Haryana, Randeep s p e n t almost six years in Australia as a student and worked as a taxi driver at night. He got his first break in 2001 with Mira Nair ’s

“Anything that you are enthusiastic about, you are going to excel at. But don’t be disrespectful (towards your parents).

Monsoon Wedding due to his Australian accent.

Randeep followed up his act with D in 2005, but faced a setback due to a string of flops. Back then, he was in the news more for his relationship with actress and former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen than for his work. The actor bounced back with Milan Luthria’s Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai in 2010. His filmography is studded with projects like Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, Jism 2, Highway, Kick, Sarbjit, Sultan, Laal Rang, Main Aur Charles and Rang Rasiya. He also debuted on the small screen as the host of MTV Big F Season 2 this year. What was his most challenging role?

“I will tell you the biggest challenge when I am done with it. I enjoy my work. It is as challenging as it is satisfying.” Talking about his preference in terms of roles, Randeep said he likes to explore the grey area with his projects.

“I find them (anti-heroes) more real. I don’t think there are goody two shoes in cinema anymore. None of the heroes are so goody two shoes. There are always shades... Cinema has moved from goody two shoes a long time back.

I was never interested in one and I don’t think I have played any.”

The 40-year-old is prepping up for the historical drama The Battle of Saragarhi in which he will be seen essaying the role of a Sikh character.

V

eteran actor Anil Kapoor says he is proud of Leo Varadkar, who is the first Irish Prime Minister having an Indian heritage.

Anil took to Twitter to the progressive outlook in Ireland in appointing Varadkar as the youngest and first openly gay Prime Minister in the majority-Catholic country.

“The first Irish PM of Indian heritage! So proud of Leo Varadkar and of Ireland’s progressiveness! The world is slowly but surely changing,” Anil tweeted.

On the acting front, Anil is gearing up for the release of the comedy film Mubarakan directed by Anees Bazmi. The film also stars his nephew Arjun Kapoor, Ileana D’Cruz and Athiya Shetty. Mubarakan is slated to release in July.

Always wanted to do a great war film: Arjun

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ctor Arjun Rampal, who is set to feature in JP Dutta’s Paltan, says he always wanted to work in a “great war film”.

“Always wanted to do a great war film. Play a true soldier. As that is a backdrop I grew up in. JP sir’s Paltan promises to be all of the above.

I am so charged up to be a part of it as I believe I

couldn’t be in better hands,” Arjun said in a statement.

According to sources Paltan will boast of an exciting ensemble star cast.

Produced by JP Films and directed by Dutta, the film will go on the floors later this year, and is scheduled for a summer 2018 release.

Dutta has films like Border, Refugee and LOC Kargil to his credit.

28

FEATURES

Friday, June 23, 2017

The Indian Weekender

FISH

RECIPES

5

Goan Fish Curry

Fish cooked in sweet-and-sour coconut sauce

I

nfused with the subtle sweetness of coconut and sour tang of tamarind, this preparation is a glorious celebration of the sweet-andsour flavours so beloved in coastal parts of India. This preparation brings Goa in a pot to your kitchen.

Preparation time:10 min Marination Times: 30 minutes Cooking time: 20 min Serves: 4 Taste: Hot

INGREDIENTS

For the marinade • 600g boneless firm white fish • fillets • A pinch of salt • Juice of ½ lime For the gravy • 2 Tbsp tamarind pulp (nearly 50 gm of tamarind block) • 6-8 whole red chillies • ½ tsp cumin seeds • 1 Tbsp coriander seeds

• • • • • • • •

1 Tbsp oil, for cooking 1 onion, chopped 1 tsp garlic paste 2 green chillies, julienned ½ tsp turmeric powder ½ cup coconut milk (low fat can be used) ½ Cup water

METHOD

• Add whole red chillies in bowl with enough water to cover and soak for 30 minutes.

• Wash and cut the fish into pieces, sprinkle the fish with lime juice and salt, mix well.

Cover and set aside for 30 minutes to marinate.

• Soak the tamarind block in a cup of warm water and leave aside for 20-30 minutes.

• Remove any unwanted particles like seeds from the tamarind and mash well with your fingers. Squeeze the pulp from the tamarind and push through a fine strainer.

• Add tamarin pulp in a food processor

Advantages of drinking lemon in water

I

n India, tea and coffee is regularly consumed at breakfast, lunch and during mid-afternoon but we forget drinking water. Drinking water is important and to spruce it up, what you can do is add a slice of lemon or squeeze a lime in water.

Stomach health

Digestive problems are the most common ailments but warm water and lime juice is the solution to most digestive problems. Lemon juice helps to purify the blood, reduces your chances of indigestion, constipation, eliminates toxins from the body, adds digestion and reduces phlegm.

Oral health

Reduces bad breath and stops bleeding gums. It also reduces toothache.

High blood pressure

Lime contains potassium which controls high blood pressure and reduces the effect of nausea and dizziness.

142 | India’s Most Wanted Recipies

Lemon water can also prep up your mood and relieve you from depression and stress.

Enjoy yoghurt

Respiratory problem

Lemon water can fight throat infections thanks to its antibacterial property. If salt water does not work for you, try lime and water for gargling.

• Any firm white fish can be used: Tarakihi, Haddock, Talapia, River Cobbler or Kingfish fillets are all ideal.

• For a milder version, reduce the amount of red chillies.

Down with salt

Salt draws in fluid, raising the volume and pressure of blood in your arteries. But it’s not just the salt cellar you have to worry about — processed foods such as biscuits, breakfast cereals, takeaways and ready meals contain 80 per cent of the salt we consume, says the Blood Pressure Association.

Lose weight

Research has shown that dropping just a few kilos can have a substantial impact on your blood pressure. Excess weight makes your heart work harder and this strain can lead to high blood pressure.

The nicotine in cigarettes stimulates your body to produce adrenaline, making your heart beat faster and raises your blood pressure, making your heart work harder.

Anti - ageing

Infections

RUBY’S TIP:

Don’t smoke

Lemon water can reduce phlegm; and can also help you breathe properly and aids a person suffering with asthma.

Lemon water or nimbu paani reduces he production of free radicals which are responsible for aging skin and skin damage.

Lemon water is calorie free and an antioxidant.

Ruby Dhillon

Hypertension on the high? Here are top 10 tips to get it down and keep it down.

Researchers believe jogging delivers multiple health benefits, improving oxygen uptake and lowering blood pressure, as well as many more benefits.

However, any physical activity can help lower blood pressure by strengthening the heart so it can pump more blood with less effort, thereby decreasing the force on the arteries.

Mental health

• Add marinated fish along with coconut milk to the masala, mix well and add water. Cover and cook until the mixture comes to a boil on high heat.

Adjust the seasoning.

• Serve with plain rice

How to manage high BP without pills Go for a weekly jog

Skin care

Several cosmetic products promise glowing and healthy skin, but it comes at a cost. Try lime water for healthy and glowing skin.

Besides, benefiting the skin, water and lime juice reduces aging, blackheads and wrinkles.

Lime water is also a cooling agent, best way to beat the Indian heat.

along with the whole red chillies, cumin seeds and coriander seeds. Blend them together into a coarse pulp. Keep aside.

• Heat oil in a pan on a medium heat, add chopped onion and sauté until goldenbrown in colour.

• Add garlic paste, sauté for a minute, then add the whole red chillies and tamarind paste to the onion masala, stir and sauté for 2-3 minutes until any extra water evaporates.

• Add green chillies and turmeric, mix well.

Just one small pot a day can reduce your chances of developing high blood pressure by a third, according to a study presented at the University of Minnesota in the US. Scientists think naturally occurring calcium can make blood vessels more supple, enabling them to expand slightly and keep pressure low.

Bananas

E a t i n g potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, and reducing salt intake could save thousands of lives every year, according to a new study published in the British Medical Journal online.

Potassium is an important mineral that controls the balance of fluids in the body and helps to lower blood

Think beetroot

A study published in the journal Hypertension found drinking a 250ml cup of the juice can cut blood pressure readings in those with high blood pressure by around seven per cent. It’s thought the effect is produced by beetroot’s naturally high levels of nitrate. Eating otherrich foods — cab bage and spinach — might also help.

30

FEATURES

Friday, June 23, 2017

June 23 to June 29 | By Manisha Koushik ¡¡ Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) Don’t take no for an answer, even if you have to spend time in convincing. Spending quality time with lover is indicated and will prove most fulfilling. An official trip promises to be most entertaining. Finding time to discharge a social commitment will be possible. You are likely to remain on your toes at work and see an important job to completion. Curbing your habit of splurging will seem a personal triumph and help you save much!

¡¡ Cancer (Jun 22-Jul 20)

Lucky Number- 22 / Lucky Colour- Dark Blue

A business trip is likely to prove most fruitful for some. Those in medical and engineering fields will find recognition in whatever they are currently pursuing. Preferential treatment is likely at work as you manage to remain on the right side of the boss. You may take the initiative of hosting a family gathering at your house. Someone you are in love with is likely to reciprocate in equal measure, so enjoy!

Travelling with someone interesting promises to make the journey entertaining.

¡¡ Taurus (Apr 21-May 20)

Lucky Number- 2 / Lucky Colour- Violet ¡¡ Leo (Jul 21-Aug 22)

The Indian Weekender

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)

¡¡ Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 21)

You are likely to derive immense satisfaction from what you are currently involved in.

Someone not agreeing with your professional views may need a wee bit more convincing. A senior is likely to take the delay in your project in his or her stride. A new household item is likely to be purchased by some. A visit to a place of entertainment is on the cards. You are likely to take up an exercise regimen soon.

Things brighten up for you on the academic front. A good equation is likely to be formed with someone on the social front. A family youngster is likely to do you proud by his or her academic performance. Things are likely to turn favourable at work and boost your career prospects. A favourable decision regarding property can be expected by those facing litigation. Some of you will resurrect your love life by stoking the embers of passion!

Lucky Number- 9 / Lucky Colour- Red

Lucky Number- 1 / Lucky Colour- Baby Pink

¡¡ Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)

¡¡ Aquarius (Jan 22-Feb 19) You may have more on your plate than you can tackle, but that won’t deter you from giving it your best. Someone influential is likely to take care of your financial well being. Keeping fit may become your mantra to begin indulging in healthy activities. Someone can irritate you on the professional front and invite your scorpion’s sting! However, playing cool will be sensible.

Holding hands and exchanging sweet nothings with lover may not be possible this week.

Time is ticking and you still have a lot of do, so get after whatever is pending. A prestigious assignment may come to you and help you make your mark on the professional front. You are likely to hold your own on the academic front in the face of stiff competition. Friends are likely to help you out in discharging a social commitment. Those with a religious bent of mind may plan on a pilgrimage. Taking the family out for a spin will be fun. Those who have saved to splurge on this week, will find it worth it.

You may find those around you more secretive than usual. Hasty actions threaten to spoil your image on the social front. Changes on the professional front may not be to your liking, but little you can do about it. Dipping profits may become a cause for alarm for retailers and small businessmen. Your relationship appears to be on the rocks, as differences grow. Those looking for a quick path to success on the fitness front may be disappointed.

A chance to visit someplace you had wanted to for long may materialise. You will be able to mould a senior to accept your ideas on the professional front. Exceptional performance on the academic front is foreseen and will help you join the lead pack. Some celebration is foreseen on the home front. Getting engaged or married is on the cards for the eligible. Judicious spending will help you tide over the lean period on the financial front.

Lucky Number- 6 / Lucky Colour- Navy Blue

Lucky Number- 11 / Lucky Colour- Baby Pink

Lucky Number- 7 / Lucky Colour- White

¡¡ Gemini (May 21-Jun 21)

¡¡ Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 23)

¡¡ Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)

You may feel a bit cut up with someone, but may feel reluctant to face him or her. Help required for something will be forthcoming from the family. Striking a friendship with someone you had passing acquaintance with is possible.

Love life remains enjoyable, as you accord priority to it over other things. Overseas travel is indicated, maybe to meet a dear one living abroad. Investing in real estate will prove lucky for you, so go ahead.

You are likely to meet someone this week, who may become your lifelong friend. Problems on the work front will be easily overcome. Excelling in academics will add to your motivation to do even better. You will need to be at hand to help out a near and dear one.A family youngster is likely to do you proud. Good earning can be expected, as a venture turns profitable. Health remains good, as you become conscious about fitness.

You will need to be conscious of what is going around you at work. Adding some rich clientele to the list of clients is possible for some professionals. A profit making scheme is likely to be put into effect and give excellent results.

Some of you are likely to spend a happy and healthy time with a fitness conscious friend.

There is no point in being too assertive on the romantic front, you will only upset lover.

Taking on additional job with a smile is the This is the right time to approach someone influential on the academic front for you-know-what! Love life of those feeling stagnated in a relationship is set to improve. Emotional contentment is what you seek and emotional contentment is what you will get, but through some efforts.

Burning the midnight oil is important, if you want to do well on the academic front. Don’t take too many liberties on the health front as you can get afflicted with some ailment.

Lucky Number- 4 / Lucky Colour- Peach

Lucky Number- 18 / Lucky Colour- Purple

Lucky Number- 8 / Lucky Colour- Forest Green

Lucky Number- 17 / Lucky Colour- Electric Grey

Indian Idol 2017 Finalist PVNS Rohit Live in Auckland Auckland Eid Day

Date: Monday, 26 June or Tuesday 27 June (Depending on Moon Sighting) Time: Prayer starts at 9 a.m.

Venue: Mt Smart Stadium, 2 Beasley Ave, Penrose

Like every year, Eid-ul-Fitr, the biggest festival of the Muslim community will be held with a gathering expected to be more than 5000. Depending on the sighting of the moon, the Eid prayers will be held on Monday or Tuesday, June 26 or 27 at Mt Smart Stadium, Penrose in Auckland. There is small carnival organised for the families and children with food stalls, bouncing castles, women clothing and house decorations etc. A clothes donation drive is also organised at the event to help support the impoverished this winter. Come one and all with your family and friends and have a great time with the Muslim community at the event. Volunteers needed: aucklandeidday/volunteer. Text HILAL to 5775* for Eid updates. (20c txt opt in)

CAB Hamilton

Date: Wednesday, 28 June 2017 Time: 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Venue: Settlement Centre Waikato, 46G Boundary Road, Claudelands, Hamilton CAB Hamilton will hold a free information session for newcomers on Health and Wellbeing This session will cover Patient Rights, GP,Pharmacy, Specialist Referrals, Midwives, Immunisations, Mental health, Services available for pre-school children and older persons, Waikato Hospital Services and Ambulance Service. The session will be facilitated by Karen Jensen of Waikato District Health Board, Public Health Nurse and Population Health Service. Light refreshments provided. Please confirm your place by Friday, June 32, by phoning the CAB Office on 07 839 0808 or email at Hamilton@cab.org.nz or just come along

Date: Saturday, July 8 Time: 5:30 p.m.

Venue: Dorothy Winstone Centre, Howe St., Auckland PVNS Rohit hails from the city of Hyderabad in India. During Indian Idol, he gave some mind-blowing performances and impressed the judges with his singing abilities, notably Sonu Nigam. SB Music magic group is proud to present his upcoming concert in July, where the audience will get a chance to catch him with the local live orchestra, performing some of their favourite tunes in Hindi, Telugu and Tamil. Some renowned professional singers from Auckland including Vishnu Priya Mallela, Ravi Muthumanicyam, Sreesutha Nampally, Praveen Ravela, Archana Ravi, NP Srinivas Rao and Prathyusha Vikrant will also be performing along with him on the day. Ticket pricing: Adults- $15 and Child/Senior citizen- $10. For information about the concert and purchase of tickets, please contact Govardhan Mallela on 09-6245922/ 021-1455708.

Lucky Number- 5 / Lucky Colour- Bottle Green ¡¡ Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

Free International Day of Yoga celebrations Date: Saturday 24 June Time: 1-4 pm Venue: Mt Albert War Memorial Hall, 773 New North Road Mt Albert.

Includes Yoga Asanas, Yoga Nidra, Yoga Meditation, Yoga Kirtan, Yoga Wisdom.

All welcome. Hosted by Meditation New Zealand.

Donations welcome.

World Wanderlust Connecting to over 13 destinations in India

• Specialty meals available for religious, dietary or allergy reasons

From

• Transit through Singapore and receive a free SGD20 Changi Dollar Voucher per person to be redeemed at Changi Airport ^

$

Jaipur | Amritsar

1,155

*

Return

From

Mumbai | New Delhi Hyderabad

Ahmedabad | Chennai Bengaluru | Kochi

1,320 1,384

$

*

From

Return

$

*

Return

More great fares at Follow us on

^Changi Dollar Vouchers are redeemable for travel before 30 September 2017. *Terms and conditions apply: Prices are subject to availability, per person in NZD, flying Singapore Airlines and are valid for sale until 14 July 2017. Flights from Auckland and Christchurch are valid for selected travel dates on/between 01 October and 09 December 2017 and on/between 16 January and 31 March 2018. Flights departing Wellington (via Canberra) are available on/between 14 July and 09 December 2017 and on/between 16 January and 31 March 2018. Singapore to Amritsar and Jaipur flights are operated by Scoot with ‘Fly Bag Eat’ product. Singapore to Hyderabad and Kochi are operated by SilkAir. Flights to Bengaluru and Chennai are operated by both Singapore Airlines and SilkAir. Child fares are available at 75% of the adult fare. Advertised fares are ‘Economy Super Saver’ and are eligible to accrue 10% KrisFlyer frequent flyer miles, KrisFlyer terms and conditions apply. Passengers can earn Air New Zealand Airpoints on Singapore Airlines flights between New Zealand (Auckland, Wellington (via Canberra), Christchurch) and Singapore. Airpoints conditions apply. No miles are accruable on other airline frequent flyer programmes. Date changes are subject to a USD250 fee. Cancellations are not permitted. Maximum 6 months stay applies. Fares quoted include airport taxes and government costs, as calculated on 01 June 2017 and subject to change due to currency fluctuations. A stopover in Singapore will increase the cost of airport and government taxes. To book these great offers contact Reservations on 0800 808 909 or visit www.singaporeair.com.