Indian Weekender 4 August 2017 by Indian Weekender

04 AUGUST2017 | Vol 9 Issue 20

ALL THE ISSUES. ALL THE DEBATES. THAT WILL SHAPE YOUR VERDICT. PRESENTING

RELIANZ FOREX

celebrate ninth anniversary

LAVLEEN KAUR The face of courage

Pg 5

Pg 6

www.iwk.nz

WARIS

BROTHERS return to NZ with Punjabi Virsa

Pg 8

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Jacinda Ardern will set out to change Labour Party's election narrative in the next few days after being almost reluctantly elevated to the position of the leader of the party. Ms Ardern always had the good fortune, apart from the talent, to have the entire Labour Party collectively looking forward to her elevation to leadership positions made available within the caucus on more than one occasion. v

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The Indian Weekender

Will Jacinda’s elevation change the narrative for Labour? ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

he newly sworn-in Labour leader has asked, and rightly so, for 72 hours to take stock of the situation about where her party is currently at, just eight weeks before the elections. While Jacinda Ardern takes stock of the situation and the nation waits to see how she can turn around the narrative that Andrew Little believed had gone wrong, understandably after recent polls started showing the Labour hovering badly around the lower twenties. “The recent polls had built a narrative that was damaging to Labour,” Mr Little said. “I had ‘amazing comments’ from all my colleagues, but was aware the party needed to break the narrative,” Mr Little said while speaking to the media immediately after making caucus aware of his decision to step-down. It is this narrative that Ms Ardern will set out to change once she comes out of her forced ‘time-out’ of the public glare after being almost reluctantly elevated to the position. Ms Ardern always had the good fortune, apart from the talent, to have the entire Labour Party collectively looking forward to her elevation to leadership positions made available within the caucus on more than one occasion. Earlier in March this year, the party had overwhelmingly favoured Ms Ardern’s elevation as the party’s deputy leader, to an extent forcing the long serving but embattled Annette King to eventually tender her resignation.

In a somewhat similar turn of events on Tuesday, August 1, the party had once again given a collective go-ahead to Ms Ardern for the top position and thus forcing Andrew Little to make up his mind and step down from the top position. On both occasions, the outgoing individuals were forced into a position of acceptance of resignation, while Ms Ardern maintained a disarming reluctance to accept the new ‘responsibility’.

I had ‘amazing comments’ from all my colleagues, but was aware the party needed to break the narrative The similarity on both these occasions could not be a stark coincidence.

It demonstrates to some extent Labour’s jadedness in sitting in opposition for three consecutive terms, and possibly the fourth and therefore a propensity to offer Ms Ardern a leadership role when she publically chose to remain reluctant about those opportunities. Clearly, it is Ms Ardern’s vote-winning potential that the party is so desperately relying upon that is driving such changes within the Labour leadership. How will the party justify their charge of ‘jadedness’ against the current National government after three consecutive terms, when they appear jaded of sitting in opposition remains to be seen? However, the focus of this piece is on how Ms Ardern will change the narrative that has gone southward in relatively last few weeks and not long ago. The One News-Colmar Brunton poll, which reported Labour polling alarmingly low at 24 per cent which precipitated Andrew Little’s eventual departure had earlier shown Labour polling at a respectable 30 per cent in the month of June. Something has changed drastically over the course of last few weeks, which have altered the narrative for the Party. In last few weeks, more than ever before, Andrew Little had tried too many things in vain to attract the attention of ‘un-interested’ voters at the centre. One notable thing (and important for our audience), was the over the top bombastic approach toward cutting down immigration numbers.

The Indian Weekender

Friday, August 4, 2017

In the Andrew Little led Labour Party’s narrative cutting down record level of immigration numbers was the panacea of all major problems New Zealand was facing. Apparently, the intention was to shake up the uninterested voters from their slumber by highlighting that New Zealand was in some kind of crisis, which majority of economic and social indicators suggest is not the case. Jacinda Ardern with Andrew Little However, this does not mean that Labour does not deserve a chance to Otherwise what will explain the Little led call for the change of the government on the Labour Party’s repeated failure on numerous occasions to give the actual figure of revenue basis of a better vision for everyone. that the country will stand to lose from an Only if, the Andrew Little led Labour abrupt cutting of the number of immigrants Party would have sought the chance from the coming to the country. voters, more subtly, on the basis of merit of its A policy so important for the Labour Party in alternative vision for New Zealand. this election should have been backed up with Instead, they chose to rattle everyone by accurate calculations and numbers. making noises loud enough to suggest that New This has obviously exposed the apparent lack Zealand was in some kind of crisis. of preparedness of their narrative, and it is to Fortunately, New Zealand is not in the midst the credit of the New Zealand public who were of any crisis. able to see through this lacuna quite clearly. The fact is that New Zealand is neither in a The fact that the numbers lost by Labour in crisis as Labour suggests, nor is it as good as the the One News-Colmar Brunton poll have gone to further left to the Greens, and not to the right National Party would like everyone to believe. to New Zealand First, is a vindication of the fact It is for there to be taken by a political party, that voters who have left the Labour camp are which can weave the most believable narrative not swayed by over the top bombastic narrative. about the future of New Zealand. It may be a time for change. To top it all, the problem in Labour’s Although Ms Ardern is untested, to her credit narrative was an apparent lack of confidence is the fact that she has not spoken outlandishly and the degree of unpreparedness among those on many issues of importance. who wove and disseminated this narrative So she can clearly bring some subtlety to so earnestly. Labour’s narrative in this election.

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Rakshabandhan to be celebrated in Auckland and Wellington

he cities of Auckland and Wellington will celebrate the vibrant festival of Raksha Bandhan that celebrates the veneration of womanhood and universal fellowship, on Sunday, August 13, in Auckland and on Sunday, August 20, in Wellington. The festival will brighten this winter with classical, traditional and folk forms of dances, instrumentals and vocals indigenous to Sanatan dharma cultures of the world for example: various states of India, Thailand, China, Nepal, Japan, Pacific island countries and Maori Kapahaka from New Zealand. Celebrating brings together Sanatan dharmic communities such as Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, Taoist, Shinto and indigenous cultures. Meditation New Zealand, ( a l s o

k n o w n as NZ School of Meditation), a non-sectarian, non-profit organisation and established in NZ for over thirty years is the the host of Auckland event. It warmly invites all Aucklanders to celebrate the Auckland Raksha Bandhan festival from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., on 258 Balmoral Road (Bhartiya Mandir hall). There is no charge to the general public, however, due to limited seating, RSVP is compulsory. The Wellington Raksha Bandhan festival will be hosted by Hindu Council of New Zealand, supported by various Hindu organisations, temples and associations. The festival will

take place at Moera Community centre, 107 Randwick Crescent, Moera, Lower Hutt, and Wellington. Again, there is no charge to the general public but RSVP is compulsory due to limited seating arrangements. Widely observed as a brothers’ and sisters’ day, the Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi) is an annual Hindu Festival to reaffirm and celebrate the loving universal fellowship and veneration of womanhood. “Raksha Bandhan was celebrated on this large scale for the first time in the year 2010, in Auckland. About 700 people attended the function and since then, the festival has been held almost every year in Auckland grew to be part of Wellington’s celebrations as well,” Vijeshni Rattan, Coordinator for the Wellington event said. Entry to the event is free of charge, however, due to limited space members of public are requested to book their tickets by e-mailing forum@hota.org.nz .

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Khan: ‘Absolutely Even smoke cannon Jeff Positively Wellingtonian’ fails to deter robbery I 4

Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

¡¡ IWK BUREAU

Mobil Petrol Station on Puhinui Road

¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

etermined to loot cash and cigarettes, three offenders on Sunday, July 30, broke into a petrol station in south Auckland and robbed the store of an undetermined amount of cash. It was still dark at 5:25 a.m. on Sunday and the temperature had plummeted to nearly two degrees, but that did not stop the brazen robbers to commit their crime. Three men wearing hoodie jackets with their faces covered stopped their hatchback car just outside Mobil Petrol Station on Puhinui Road in Papatoetoe and started throwing bricks at the glass gate, breaking it open. The staff and the security guard present inside the store followed their drill as trained; they activated the smoke cannon and rushed to safety in the back room. Even when the smoke canister created a cloud of smoke inside the store, making visibility

nearly impossible, the robbers climbed the cash counter, broke open the cash register using tools and escaped with cash, cigarettes and tobacco from the store. “Three offenders broke into the store and stole cigarettes, tobacco and the cash register, before fleeing in a car,” a police spokesperson confirmed. What adds to the misery of the store is that it was targeted for the third time in the last two weeks. Earlier last week, on Monday, July 24 the store was robbed of cash and tobacco. “We have been robbed thrice in two weeks, and with loss of property and money, we are living in fear. “The government has to take stern steps and give harsher punishments for these offenders else this will not stop. These offenders cannot be just let go under the pretence of being underage,” Khushi, from the petrol station told The Indian Weekender.

n June this year, a small but significant news item related to the Kiwi-Indian community had escaped the usual media glare that typically accompanies any news of public recognition of a member of the community in New Zealand. The news was about Jeff Khan, a popular radio journalist of Wellington103.5 FM – a Wellington Hindi radio programme, being conferred Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian Award for 2017 along with 11 other recipients. The Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian Awards are about recognising people who selflessly give so much to our communities – people who volunteer their time and effort to make our city a better place. The 12 recipients of this year’s awards were presented with certificates by Mayor Justin Lester at an event at City Gallery Wellington on Thursday, June 8. Mr Khan has dedicated almost three decades of his life to broadcasting, spending much of his time in a studio passing on important national and community news to the Hindi communities in Wellington, Auckland and his native Fiji. The Award Citation for Jeff Khan read, “It would be hard to imagine Wellington’s Hindi Radio Programme without the voice of Jeff Khan.” Mr Khan moved to New Zealand in 2008 and worked for Radio Tarana in Auckland before arriving in the capital in 2010. For the past seven years, Jeff has kept his community up-to-date on current affairs, births, deaths and marriages and local events.

Jeff Khan with Mayor Justin Lester

The community has also benefited from Jeff’s media experience in times of natural disasters, including the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake and the damage in Fiji after Cyclone Winston. Mr Khan was a key source of information for the community, giving live updates on air about closures, damage and civil defence information, and organising for donations of food and clothing to be collected and sent to Fiji.

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Constable Lavleen Kaur: The face of courage in the community ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

or many in the community who are un-initiated with the seemingly harmless face sitting on a slightly petite body, Constable Lavleen Kaur may appear like Lavleen Kaur getting felicitated at Takanini Gurudwara any next door girl visiting Gurudwara. Constable Kaur and her partner signalled the However, that is only if you are not planning offender to stop, but he continued which led to to test her resolute courage and commitment to a short pursuit. fight for the cause of the good against the bad, As expected by the officers, the man stopped which she is called upon to do in her everyday at the victim’s house and ran towards the work in New Zealand Police. house. Constable Kaur armed with a taser gun This is something that an offender came to and Glock firearm challenged the offender to know the hard way sometime last year when he was challenged sternly by Constable Kaur ‘stop’ and ‘get down to the ground’. who was chasing her down with a taser gun The offender then surrendered and as in her hand in a possible crime scene in South suspected the police found a large pig knife in Auckland. the offender’s pocket. Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand has Constable Kaur through her quick acknowledged and awarded Constable Kaur mindedness and courage prevented a crime and on Sunday, July 30, at Gurdwara Sri Kalgidhar averted causing serious injury to the intended Sahib in Takanini for displaying courage and victim. inspiring many young members of the KiwiConstable Kaur’s effort was recognised Indian community. with the area commander’s commendation The episode is related to the incident in at Counties Manukau Police district awards July 2016 when Constable Lavleen Kaur earlier this year. through her instincts and courage foiled a Since then, many other community probable crime. organisations have felicitated her for Constable Kaur was alerted of a man’s her bravery. intention to attack a person in Papatoetoe, Constable Gurpreet Arora from Counties south Auckland. Manukau and Constable Mandeep Kaur along Constable Kaur along with her partner was with executives from Supreme Sikh Society of able to locate the car being used by the offender NZ were present at the ceremony at Takanini while patrolling the victim’s area. Gurudwara on Sunday, July 30.

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Relianz celebrates ninth year by Government to launching financial services scrap decile system for schools ¡¡ IWK NEWSDESK

elianz Group celebrated its ninth anniversary at a glittering function at The Wharf on Auckland’s North Shore on Sunday. Relianz Group, which comprises Relianz Forex and Relianz Travel, also launched a new company, Relianz Loan Bazaar, at the event. The group has been celebrating its annual event for the past eight years with its growing numbers of staff as well as business and industry associates. The event essentially is built around honouring and rewarding Relianz staff members for their performance during the year just gone by. The ninth anniversary event kicked off with a unique classical music performance by three of Auckland’s well-known Indian instrumental exponents: Lester Silver on sitar, Manjit Singh on Tabla and Anand Thakore on acoustic mandolin playing the raag Tilak Kamod. The sterling performance set the tone for the night as the sun set on the stunning Waitemata outside and the city’s beautiful skyline began to light up across the harbour bridge, which loomed high above the roof of the venue. The guest of honour for the night was well-known medical professional and multifaceted personality Dr Sharad Paul, internationally recognized author and polymath. Dr Paul delivered a stirring speech and gave away several of the awards. He along with four other guests alsolit the

Relianz team

¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

E ceremonial lamp to symbolically launch the new venture, Relianz Loan Bazaar. Relianz Group CEO Giri Giridharan delivered his annual address remarking on the successes of the past twelve months and acknowledging the individual efforts of his team of dedicated staff. Earlier, the entire staff assembled at the stage to formally welcome the guests. As in previous years, the annual day Relianz Quiz proved to be popular, with vigorous and whole-hearted participation of each and every guest present. This year as well, the quiz was devised and conducted by former Indian Weekender Editor Dev Nadkarni, who was also the master of ceremonies. The evening concluded with some impromptu speeches by staff members sharing their experiences working

Musical performance during the event

with the group before partaking of the sumptuous dinner in the celebratory atmosphere much enhanced by the fine venue. Mr Giridharan said the Relianz Group was looking forward to the continuing support of its loyal clientele that had followed the Group from the company’s money transfer services through to travel services. “We are now offering financial services through Relianz Loan Bazaar with the same business ethics and high service standards that set Brand Relianz apart. We are really grateful to our clients who have been with us for so long.”

ducation Minister Nikki Kaye has confirmed that the government will replace the decile system for schools with ‘targeted funding’ to better support those students most at risk of not achieving. “For too long schools have been stigmatised and wrongly judged by their decile number,” Ms Kaye said. “Today I’m announcing that the Cabinet has agreed to replace the decile system with a Risk Index that allows us to better target funding to schools with children and young people most at risk of not achieving due to disadvantage. “We will also be replacing the equity index used to allocate disadvantage funding in early childhood education with the Risk Index,” Ms Kaye said. Decile funding currently accounts for less than three per cent of a school’s resources. “However, I’m pleased to be able to confirm that no school, early learning service or ngā kōhanga reo will see a reduction in their funding as a direct result of this change. “In fact, we expect some will gain significantly,” Ms Kaye said. Many new parents in the KiwiIndian community, especially the new migrants who have recently

Education Minister Nikki Kaye

arrived in the country and struggle to comprehend the actual meaning of the decile system that seems to divide schools, and in some cases seemingly unfairly, would take some comfort from this latest announcement. “I was never able to completely understand this decile system except that it placed some expectation on us to look for a school with better decile rating,” said Richa Singh, a working mum of a five-year-old kid who struggled to fully comprehend the meaning of decile ranking made available to the general public. “My husband has tried explaining to me many times that decile system is just a metric informing how much funding a particular school can get from the government, but it is hard to think it that way always. “Instead you are tempted to think in a way that decile system was a reflection of the quality of education imparted to students in the school, which obviously adds to your anxiety if your zone does only have low decile schools,” Mrs Singh added.

The Indian Weekender

Friday, August 4, 2017

Indian student dies in Papatoetoe train incident

¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

he Indian community’s worst fears have come true when it was confirmed that the body found on the tracks of Papatoetoe railway station on Wednesday, July 26, was of a young Indian national – Harmandeep Singh Joshan – who was in the country on a student visa. This was confirmed on Friday, July 28, by Daljit Singh, spokesperson of the Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand, who has been providing all support to the immediate family of the deceased student in this hour of crisis. The Indian High Commission had actively assisted the family of the deceased man, both here and in India, and had offered to provide all assistance in sending the deceased student back to India. However, the family of Mr Joshan man finally decided to organise the funeral here in Auckland. The funeral was conducted at Manukau Memorials in South Auckland, on Saturday, July 29 at 10.45 a.m. An emotional social media post from the office of the Indian High Commission in New Zealand on Tuesday, August 01 confirmed that Harmandeep’s ashes have been sent back to India.

Harmandeep Singh Joshan

“Tonight a young man will perform his last journey back to India. This is a sad occasion not only for his family, but for all of us. This young man perhaps needed a friend. “We urge you to look out for your friends, especially the younger ones who need help the most. If anyone is feeling low, please reach out. We can help ourselves by helping each other,” The Indian High Commission’s post on Facebook read. Harmandeep Singh Joshan was a native of Chakk Kanian Kalan village of district Moga from the state of Punjab. On Wednesday, July 26, Harmandeep’s car was found parked in the Shirley Road Gurudwara in Papatoetoe and his body was found on train tracks across the road from the Gurudwara. Police have ruled out any foul play in the circumstances around the death.

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The Indian Weekender

Empowering young Sikh Waris brothers return leaders for a better future with Punjabi Virsa ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

new Sikh youth organisation has been formed at the Gurdwara Sri Kalgidhar Sahib in Takanini at the three-day event that saw the participation of more than 150 young Sikh individuals. The three-day event was held from Friday, July 21 to Sunday, July 23 that saw young individuals participate in the Akhand Paath and sewa of the Gurudwara. The Youth Wing Supreme Sikh Society New Zealand is established with the aims to get more young minds to come towards Sikhism, learn more about the religion and actively participate in its cultural activities. “The aim of creating this organisation is ‘empowering tomorrow’s Sikh leaders for a better future’ and getting the kids who have gone away from Sikhism back into Sikhism by Waheguru’s grace,” says Sukhjap Singh, spokesman of the group. The group currently has 90 members enrolled between the age of five and 19. Young individuals can enrol their names by paying a one-time membership fee of $50 which will be used to fund and organise events and activities of the organisation.

One of the many activities planned by the group is to host an exhibition to display the rich history of the Sikh community, its birth and growth over the centuries, the life of Sikh martyrs and important events such as Battle of Chamkaur and so on. Another important project is getting the young Sikh children and the youth to visit Gurudwara regularly and participate in its activities. “We want the young people to come to the Gurudwara, and hopefully this will create more affinity for the religion in them which seems to be getting lost in today’s fast paced living, even amongst the school goers and the youth,” Mr Singh added. One of the most recent activities of this organisation is getting in touch with the schools about the issues faced by Sikh students for wearing dastar (cloth to cover the forehead) at school. Youth Wing SSSNZ comes under the parent body Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand. Supreme Sikh Society in the past has conducted many community and sporting events such as National Kabaddi tournaments, Langar for the community, events for children and the women and other events.

Members of the Youth Wing SSSNZ

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he Punjabi Indian community eagerly awaits an extravaganza of Punjabi culture and soulful singing as the renowned Waris Brothers are set to head to down-under in two weeks. Manmohan Waris, Kamal Heer and Sangtar are the names that probably every Punjabi would know, all credit to their unique and quality singing. Now the Waris brothers are returning to New Zealand with their immensely popular Punjabi Virsa’s latest edition. Punjabi Virsa 2017 will be held in Auckland on August 19 at Vodafone Events Centre. Organiser and Promoter of the Auckland show, Karam Hundal, says that he is excited to host a classy show once again for the Auckland audience. “It is not just an event, it is a tradition that we all are proud of. I would invite everyone to come and be a part of this event with your families and kids and enrich them with our colourful Punjabi culture and folk singing,” Mr Hundal says. With two more shows in New Zealand, the trio will also be performing in Tauranga on Friday, August 18, and in Christchurch on Sunday, August 20. Though it becomes a challenge for organisers to sell cultural shows, the Punjabi Virsa’s popularity and quality has always managed to attract music lovers. “Our main target is to promote Punjabi language and folk singing. Waris brothers are promoting our language and culture through

their singing and so we feel proud to be organising Punjabi Virsa again after two years. “It is challenging to organise and promote cultural events as the young generation is more attracted toward hip-hop and contemporary style of music. But the response that we have got from the audience surely proves that there is a huge market for good singing. I feel that it is our responsibility to promote such events as singing is the easiest and one the most effective ways to convey your message,” adds Mr Hundal. The Auckland show is being organised and promoted by JK Star Productions. Christchurch show is already sold out and Auckland too is on the verge of selling out with limited seats remaining. The organisers are urging everyone to grab their tickets sooner rather than later. “On October 3, 2015, for the first time Punjabi Virsa 2015 was recorded live in Auckland, New Zealand for the official record release. It was a full house event and we are positive that Punjabi Virsa 2017 is also going to be a fullhouse event,” says Mr Hundal. The tickets can be bought from www. eventfinda.co.nz

The Indian Weekender

Friday, August 4, 2017

National releases 2017 Party list: Parmar promoted, Bakshi retains same spot ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

he National Party has released its muchawaited party list for the 2017 elections with current Kiwi-Indian MPs either retaining the same spot or getting a promotion. Dr Parmjeet Parmar has surprised many by getting an eleven place promotion from the last election position of 45th position to the new high of a 34th position. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, the first India born Kiwi-Indian MP in New Zealand has maintained his spot at 32 from the last general elections. There are two more entrants from the KiwiIndian community in the National Party list with Bala Beeram at 57th position and Rahul Sirigiri at 73rd ranking in the list. In 2014, National Party had 60 seats in the parliament with 41 electorate and 19 List candidates. Bala Beeram is also an electorate candidate from Kelston, which appears to be a safe Labour seat thus making it highly unlikely for Mr Beeram to enter the parliament purely on the list. In 2014, National Party had 60 seats in the parliament with 41 electorate and 19 list candidates. Following the projections from the 2014 elections and before, Mr Bakshi and Dr Parmar are all set to enter parliament once again despite their respective electorate seats Manukau East and Mt Roskill being safe Labour seats. Dr Parmjeet Parmar’s mammoth elevation in the party list raises hopes about the prospects of the country seeing the first Kiwi-Indian

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Translator of Maori Quran Shakil Monir passes away ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

W Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

Dr Parmjeet Parmar

minister if another National-led government is formed in Wellington. Party lists determine (in the light of countrywide proportional voting) the appointment of list MPs under the mixed-member proportional (MMP) representation electoral system. The number of list MPs parties get depends on how many electorates they win compared with their entitlement from the party vote.

ell respected and a renowned scholar Shakil Ahmad Monir who pioneered translating the Holy Quran from Arabic to Te Reo Maori passed away after a brief illness on Tuesday, August 1 at his residence in Karachi, Pakistan. Mr Monir was of Indian descent born in Monghyr in Bihar, India in 1932, a professor of Science and Religion and a an ardent member of the global Ahmadiyya Muslim community. In the late 1980s under the instruction of the then fourth Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad took the responsibility of translating the Holy Quran into the Maori language. Mr Monir explored several options of translation of the Quran into this unique language but came to realise that to do full justice to the translation and the translator will have to be in a unique position to have a grasp of all three languages – namely Arabic, English, and Maori. When he couldn’t find such a person, Mr Monir took upon the responsibility himself to learn Maori language for several years, finally taking over 20 years to fully translate and publish the Maori translation of the Holy Quran. The Maori translation of the Quran is referred as Kuranu Tapu and was released in April in 2010. He spent a considerable amount of time in New Zealand to complete this task. His grasp of the Maori language saw him earn respect and friendship of many Maori elders.

Shakil Ahmad Monir

“Mr Monir’s desire was to serve mankind through the propagation of the peaceful message of Islam that saw him work in a number of capacities in many different parts of the world, including the Indian sub continent, several African countries, as well as Australia and New Zealand,” a spokesperson for the Ahmadiyya community said. Despite his achievements throughout his life, Mr Monir remained a humble person willing to spend his time and money for the benefit of the mankind. He fully funded the translation project from his own pocket. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, fast-growing international revivalist movement within Islam. Its motto of ‘Love for all and hatred for none’ is evidenced through the peaceful actions of its millions of followers. Its New Zealand branch is a registered charitable organisation, and endeavours to be an active and integrated community within the wider society.

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Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

News-in-brief from South Island

Canterbury IndiaNZ Labour launched

ew Zealand Labour Party, if it comes to power in September, will implement a “immigration policy calibrated as per regional demands”. Something similar to what the Canterbury Mayoral Forum (CMF), comprising mayors of the 10 territorial authorities in Canterbury and the chair of the regional council (Environment Canterbury), had demanded in a collective letter sent to Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse and Prime Minister Bill English in June. The CMF had outlined their concerns on the proposed changes announced by Mr Woodhouse in April, which the Forum said focussed more on Auckland issues and less on regional needs. On his part, the minister has already indicated last week that phase two of the review of the proposed changes might include “targeting of immigration settings by sectors and regions”. “A Labour Government will invest in housing, infrastructure, public services, and in training New Zealanders to fill skills shortages. At the same time, we will take a breather on immigration by reducing net migration by 20,000-30,000. "We will do this by making sure that work visas are not being abused to fill low-skill, lowpaid jobs, while ensuring that businesses are able to get genuinely skilled migrants when they need them. That’s exactly what CMF is also saying. "An immigration policy calibrated as per regional demands is what New Zealand needs right now,” said Megan Woods, who along with her fellow Labour MPs from Christchurch Ruth

Local Labour MPs Ms Megan Woods, Ms Ruth Dyson, and Ms Poto Williams at the launch of the Canterbury IndiaNZ Labour Committee

Dyson and Poto Williams launched the local chapter of the IndiaNz Labour Group – known as the Canterbury IndiaNz Labour Committee – last Sunday. The committee is headed by Narinder Singh Warraich, with Baljit Bains as the Vice-president and Lucky Badwal as the General Secretary. The MPs while acknowledging that the party may have lagged behind the ruling National in getting a foothold in the local Indian community, insisted that Labour has historically been at the foremost on bringing ethnic communities into the mainstream. “We may have launched the local chapter

of IndiaNz Labour Group now, but all of us have always been at hand for any of Indian community needs in and around Christchurch,” added Ms Williams, who also touched upon the controversial entry of Uber in Christchurch in her speech. The local taxi drivers, most of whom are from India, has protested multiple times in the past one year against the ridesharing company. Meanwhile, Ms Woods, in her speech clarified the stand taken by her Party “to reduce net migration by around 6,000 to 10,000 a year in returning the number of international students in low level courses at Private Training

Establishments closer to their previous level”. “As indicated in our immigration policy, Labour will stop issuing student visas for courses below a bachelor’s degree which are not independently assessed by the TEC and NZQA to be of high quality. In recent years, we have seen a surge in sham courses being used as a route to work and eventual residency, leading to exploitation of many students in their home countries as well as in New Zealand. " This must stop. Again, as is Labour policy, quality education must stand on its own merits,” she noted.

Indian entrepreneur among Prime Minister’s Business Scholarships this year

r Ojas Mahapatra, CEO of Dunedinbased Photonic Innovations Limited (PIL), who is originally from Odisha, is the only Indian among the 14 recipients of this year’s Prime Minister’s Business Scholarships announced by Economic Development Minister Simon Bridges last week. Mr Mahapatra, along with Mr Peter Floris, the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the New Zealand Merino Company, will attend the one-month-long Senior Executive Programme (SEP) at the London Business School (LBS) throughout this October. The scholarships, established in 2010, are designed to improve the international competitiveness of New Zealand businesses by providing access to managers and executives of internationalising companies to top international business programmes unavailable in New Zealand. Since 2010, 73 executives have received these scholarships from a wide range of sectors, including IT, engineering, and manufacturing, which has helped in improving the international competitiveness of their companies. The successful applicants also get a unique opportunity to expand their international connections and expertise. “This [international networking opportunity] was one of the main reasons I applied for the scholarship at LBS,” Mr Mahapatra said, while expressing his gratitude to the PM for the scholarship. Notably, the Programme – apart from covering topics such as how to manage complex stakeholder relationships, develop

business strategies while improving operational and strategic agility – will also enable Mr Mahapatra to tap into the 16,000-strong Executive Education Network of LBS alumni in over 150 countries. “This news add to an already fantastic week for our company as just on this Monday, we have signed a distribution deal to sell their patented laser-based ammonia detection equipment in Australia with Gordon Brothers, which is the biggest refrigeration engineering services company in Australasia,” he said. PIL already has a similar distribution arrangement with Active Refrigeration in New Zealand that was announced in June. Meanwhile, the Minister, while stressing on the “extremely positive” flow-on effects of these scholarships for New Zealand businesses and the economy as a whole, concluded by adding, “This is a unique way of supporting New Zealand’s businesses to develop valuable international networks, which are incredibly important to our economy. "Ultimately, these greater connections made by our top executives will grow the economy and make our businesses more internationally competitive.”

The Indian Weekender

VERDICT 2017 - SPECIAL FEATURE

Friday, August 4, 2017

New Zealanders can trust the voting system

he top official at the Electoral Commission, Alicia Wright, says New Zealand voters can be confident that when they head to the polls in September, their vote will be secret, and their vote will count. Voting starts in New Zealand’s General Election on 11 September and goes through to election day on 23 September. “New Zealanders who are new to our voting system might have questions about how the system works,” says Chief Electoral Officer, Alicia Wright. “I can assure them that it is a robust and secure system, and that they should feel comfortable casting their vote.” One of the jobs of the Electoral Commission is to keep the electoral roll up to date. It is a legal requirement for eligible voters to be on the electoral roll. When enrolling, people are asked a number of questions including their name, date of birth, residential and postal addresses, and occupation. The information helps avoid mix-ups with other voters who have the same name. The only details published on the electoral roll are a person’s name, the address where they live, and their occupation. The other details are not made public. “When it comes to the security of the vote, we have an excellent record,” says Ms Wright. “Transparency International rates New Zealand as one of the least corrupt countries in the world, and our robust and trustworthy voting system is a big part of that.”

“In the last election, 2,446,279 votes were cast,” says Ms Wright. “Voter fraud is rare, and we have systems in place to identify it when it happens.” Electoral rolls are checked to identify people who appear to have

Ballot papers are counted twice, the first time on election night, and then again in a detailed official count that takes two weeks. The count is done in the presence of Justices of the Peace and party or candidate scrutineers who can observe everything is done as it should be

voted more than once and those cases are referred to the Police. In the 2014 General Election, 126 cases were referred to the Police. New Zealand has had a secret ballot for nearly 150 years since 1870, and many steps are taken to ensure no one knows how another person has voted. Voters mark their ballot paper behind a private screen and then place the ballot paper in a box that remains sealed until votes are counted. There is no information on the ballot paper that can readily identify who the voter is. Ballot papers are counted twice, the first time on election night, and then again in a detailed official count that takes two weeks. The count is done in the presence of Justices of the Peace and party or candidate scrutineers

who can observe everything is done as it should be. After the official count, all used ballot papers are held in sealed packages in a secure location. They are kept locked away for six months in case they are needed for a recount. After six months, the packages are destroyed, unopened. “Over the next few weeks, the public will see parties and candidates campaigning for votes,” says Ms Wright. “There are also checks and balances in our system to promote a fair campaign.” Clear campaign rules are set out in law for political parties, candidates and third parties around election advertising, spending limits, and declarations of donations and expenses. These declarations provide the public with information about their election activities. “Voters can trust the New Zealand electoral system. We want all eligible voters to take part in the coming election and have their say on who will represent them in Parliament for the next three years.” To be eligible to enrol and vote a person must be 18 years old or older, be a New Zealand Citizen or permanent resident, and have lived in New Zealand for one year or more continuously at some point. More information about enrolling and voting is available in 27 different languages at www.elections.org.nz. Brought to you by the Electoral Commission

Contact Labour’s Ethnic Communities Team Email Michael.Wood@parliament.govt.nz Email Ethnic.Communities@labour.org.nz Phone 09 373 3332 Address 85 Grafton Rd, Auckland NZ 1010

Michael Wood MP Spokesperson for Ethnic Communities

Jacinda Ardern MP Labour Leader

Authorised by Jacinda Ardern MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

Michael_Wood JA_255wx175h_advert.indd 1

3/08/17 2:35 PM

VERDICT 2017 - SPECIAL FEATURE

National amends Immigration Policy Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

National Party List MP

his National led Government is committed to striking the right balance between ensuring New Zealanders are at the front of the queue for jobs and ensuring our regions have access to temporary migrant labour necessary for sustained economic growth. Our recent announcement is another example of our Government’s responsible, pragmatic approach to immigration and is in stark contrast to Opposition parties who want to decimate the regions by cutting immigration by tens of thousands. The feedback we are getting from the regions is that they can’t get enough workers to fill the labour shortages and they rely on migrant labour to help fill those labour shortages. These changes are not designed to reduce the number of migrants coming in on temporary work visas. Employers will continue to be able to employ migrant workers where there are genuine labour or skill shortages. The changes to temporary work visas are about ensuring that lower-skilled migrants are clear about their future prospects in New Zealand. The changes to temporary work visas announced today follow an extensive consultation period during which around 170 submissions were received. We’ve considered those submissions and made a couple of changes to address some of the issues raised during the consultation process.

Consultation is an important part of developing government policy and we would be doing a disservice to those who take the time to make submissions if we didn’t take that process seriously. The changes and amendments now being proposed will make the following changes. We are amending the remuneration band for midskilled migrants which will now be set at 85 per cent of the New Zealand median income, currently $41,538, instead of $48,859 as proposed during consultation. The new mid-skilled remuneration band recognises the fact that migrant workers in this remuneration band are filling genuine shortages and are likely to progress with further skills acquisition or work experience. It also provides more certainty for employers in planning and training their workforce. Minimum stand down periods and visa requirement for partners and children will still apply for lower-skilled migrants. Any migrant earning above 1.5 times the New Zealand median income (currently $73,299 per year), will automatically be considered higherskilled, regardless of their occupation. Any migrant earning above 85 per cent of the New Zealand median income (currently $41,538), but less than the higher-skilled remuneration threshold, in an occupation classified as ANZSCO Level 1 – 3 will be considered mid-skilled. Any migrant earning below 85 per cent of the New Zealand median income (currently $41,538) will be considered lower-skilled and will be subject to the stand down period and partner/children restrictions.

Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

New Labour leadership brings unprecedented support in just 24 hours Priyanca Radhakrishnan Labour Party candidate from Maungakiekie

t has been an interesting week for Labour. It started out as a bit of a downer and I was sorry to see Andrew Little step down. As I listened to his speech I recalled the times Phil Goff used to say that being the Leader of the Opposition is the single most difficult job in politics. Andrew Little was a principled, dignified and fair leader. He worked incredibly hard and I’m grateful for all he has achieved. One of my lasting memories of his leadership will be the way he stood up for the Indian international students who were deported by a Government that couldn’t prove they were guilty of any wrongdoing. On one occasion, Andrew spent an hour with them, talking to them and looking through their documentation. He spoke up for them because it was the right thing to do; we are all innocent until proven guilty. That’s the kind of leader he was. Within an hour after Andrew resigned, we had a new Leader and Deputy Leader. Jacinda Ardern and Kelvin Davis wereboth elected unopposed. While a change of guard is risky this close to an election, the decision was a swift, clean one. No time wasted, and no blood shed. In my view, that bears testament to the success of Andrew’s first promise as leader – to

unify caucus and the party. Jacinda is someone I consider a friend. I’ve known her for about six years now and know she will be an outstanding leader. She stands strong in her values, is honest, incredibly intelligent and is kind. She is also amazingly articulate and does a great job of delivering Labour’s vision in a way that resonates with so many. Kelvin Davis joins Jacinda at the helm. Kelvin is a political battler, the first Māori to take on the role and represents New Zealand’s rural heartland. He is articulate, fiery and extremely competent. Together, they present a formidable leadership team. We have seen an unprecedented groundswell of support in the 24 hours since Jacinda and Kelvin took on the mantle. We received donations to the tune of $250 000 and a thousand new volunteers in just 24 hours. The values of the Labour Party –that underpin our policies – will not change. Labour is a party that grew out of a labour movement born in social injustice, to create a fairer world. Our values of fairness of opportunity and focus on fighting social injustice so that our communities flourish will not change. We now have a new leadership team that brings new energy and will articulate our vision for a better, fairer New Zealand well. I’m excited, and you should be too. To join us please check out our website: www.labour.org.nz or drop me an email at priyanca@labour.org.nz

The Indian Weekender

VERDICT 2017 - SPECIAL FEATURE

Friday, August 4, 2017

The Greens will keep ‘Law and Order is a New Zealand beautiful top priority for NZPP,’ says Roshan Nauhria James Shaw Green Party Co-Leader

ew Zealand is famed all around the world for the beauty of our natural environment. From the verdant forests of the Waitakere Ranges to the stunning scenery around the Southern Alps – our landscapes feature in movies bringing millions of tourists here every year to see it for themselves. If you’ve ever been out for a family walk out in the bush, gone tramping over a weekend, or had a relaxing day out on the beach, I’m sure you’ll agree that there’s no country quite like New Zealand. But all this is under threat. Our native birds and wildlife are in serious trouble. One third of our birds are facing extinction — many could disappear within our lifetimes. Waves of introduced predators and habitat loss have combined to create a perfect storm of destruction. The independent Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, Jan Wright, has said that “The situation is desperate.” The National Government hasn’t helped either. Since being in office, National has put DOC through the wringer. National has cut hundreds of millions of dollars from DOC’s baseline budget in real terms, forcing layoffs and closing field bases. DOC has lost nearly 200 front line rangers since 2009. The Greens will take action to protect our beautiful heritage. Earlier this week, I had an

opportunity to launch our Thriving Nature package – one that will ensure that New Zealand’s wild spaces are not only protected but thrive. We will double the number of frontline rangers in five years and increase the amount of funding to DOC. This will create 720 new jobs to protect our natural environment and wildlife for an additional $192 million investment. We have an ambitious plan to save all our threatened species, double the funding for community conservation and last – but not least – bring in a tourism levy to help build up our infrastructure and protect the places we love. Protecting our environment is good for it’s own right. As humans, we have a responsibility to look after our environment and protect plant and animal life that we have endangered through our activities. However, there are positive benefits for us too. By protecting nature – we will ensure that our children get to inherit the beautiful country that we know and love. And it’s good for the economy too. Our conservation estate and beautiful natural landscapes help attract tourism, which brings nearly $13 billion worth of tourism to our country and attracts filmmakers to New Zealand – bringing nearly $2 billion from our creative industries. Under a Government with a Green heart, New Zealand’s natural treasures — our wildlife, forests, rivers and oceans — will finally be in safe hands.”

Roshan Nauhria

Leader, New Zealand People’s Party

e had a tragic situation unfold in Northland last week with the slaying of two wonderful local women by a gunman. While circumstances around the shooting are still unfolding, it has become clear he was suffering from mental illness. It has also become clear that he had an arsenal of weapons and no gun licence. And if that wasn’t outrageous enough, it turns out he bought the weapons through TradeMe. While we await the investigation, there is no indication at this stage that TradeMe hasn’t acted above board. This incident has instead brought to light the massive holes in New Zealand’s firearms regulations. For instance, when someone dies their license is not automatically terminated leading to a situation where it could potentially be used by anyone for up to 10 years. So while these firearms were bought and sold “legally”, the police had no idea about the arsenal this man possessed. There is no register of guns bought and sold in this country. Customs can tell us in 2016 alone 40,000 firearms were brought into the country. However, there are only 242,000 licensed firearms holders. So assuming 17% of license holders bought a new gun last year, what did

they do with their old ones? This is one of the many questions about firearms in New Zealand there is no offical answer too. The police for their part have been asking governments for years for the tools to answer these questions. A recent Select Committee inquiry into New Zealand’s fire arms laws too raised these questions and the National Government ignored it. A comprehensive register of all firearms in New Zealand is an important step to understanding the full picture of who owns what guns and how many other guns they have. Every week there is a report of police turning up to scenes completely unprepared for the weapons stock piles they are finding. A gun register will have no negative impact of legal firearms owners in New Zealand. It is just a list of the guns each person owns. Combining this with a permit to sell, it will ensure that the register is constantly up dated. In the future when police come across theses illegal caches of firearms they will be able to look back at each weapon’s history and work out how it entered the black market. We need to ensure New Zealand stays a safe country and a gun register is the first step that needs to be taken if we are going to stem the tide of once legal guns ending up in the hands of criminals. New Zealander’s like that their police are unarmed for general duties, but if this is going to continue we owe it to them to take every step to ensure they aren’t being sent into life-threatening situations unprepared.

FIJI

Friday, August 4, 2017

Indian scholarship gives

The Indian Weekender

Rise in NZ uni numbers

T Ra student hope for future Y ear 13 student Ratu Mara Kadavu Vakawaletabua has seen the struggles and sacrifices his parents go through to keep him at school. The Nakauvadra High School boarder in Rakiraki has prayed and dreamed of an education opportunity to help him help them. Last week, it came from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations Scholarship programme. Mr Vakawaletabua received his tickets in Suva to fly to Hyderabad in India to study for a four-year Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree. The 19-year-old from Navuniivi Village on the Ra coast, Viti Levu Bay, says he is grateful for the scholarship. He said when he returned he would want to be a positive influence for change in his village. He would use his newfound knowledge to put his parents’10-acre land into commercial production. The challenges farmers in his village face include crossing the bay in a 30-minute boat ride on a fine day to take their produce to the market. As he grew up, Mr Vakawaletabua realised that education is the key to success and development. He said we needed modern scientific methods to increase farm yields and production. Mr Vakawaletabua will be studying in an agriculture dominated

Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Vishvas Sapkal hand over the tickets and Scholarship documents to Nakauvandra High year 13 student, Ratu Kadavu Mara 19 on July 19, 2017.

region in the Acharya N.G Ranga Agricultural University. “Every bit of knowledge that I learn during these four years will be put to the expansion of my father’s farm,” Mr Vakawaletabua said. He said he would also look into fisheries, forestry and livestock farming. The villagers also plant native trees including dakua, yasi and vesi. “Therefore, intensive skills are needed in regards to agriculture

for us to ensure sustainability in the village,” he said. While Mr Vakawaletabua is away, his five siblings will help their parents look after their agriculture business. “The cost of things is very high, so I am doing this so that one day I can help my family overcome these difficulties,” he said. He said he came to know about the scholarship through his uncle, Tomasi Bolai who joined him to receive the documents from the Indian High

Every bit of knowledge that I learn during these four years will be put to the expansion of my father’s farm

Commissioner to Fiji, Vishvas Sapkal. Mr Bolai said this was a proud moment for his family. Mr Sapkal said at least 35 students were expected to study in India under the Indian Government Scholarship this year. Mr Vakawaletabua flies out to India on Monday.

he number of Pacific students choosing Otago as a place to study has increased by more than 50 per cent over the past decade. This was mentioned by the deputy vice-chancellor (VC) academic at the University of Otago, Vernon Squire, during the Otago Alumni Vakavinaka at the New Zealand High Commissioner’s residence in Suva. Mr Squire said this year was likely to have another successful increase. “2017 looks like being another record year with a further seven per cent growth. We expect to end 2017 with 950 Pacific students at Otago,” he said. He said 1300 Otago alumni were either from the Pacific or had an interest in the Pacific. “Now Otago alumni are located all around the world. 150,000 in number with around 1300 who are either from the Pacific or have an interest in the Pacific,” he said. “Crucially, while the University of Otago takes pride in its relationship with all its alumni and friends wherever they are in the world, Fiji holds a special place in our hearts.” “Moreover, the Development and Alumni Relation Office and the Pacific Islands Centre have joined forces to develop an Otago alumni program in the Pacific, with a key focus on the 150th anniversary celebrations.” Mr Squire said the university was working with the careers service to develop a mentoring scheme for international students. “An initial pilot is occurring with Chinese students, where we are seeking Chinese alumni to mentor students in terms of helping them prepare for job applications and interviews when they return to China. – Fiji Times

More young Fiji Sun journalists off to India for further education

T Miss India Fiji 2012, Sheryl Kumar. Picture: SUPPLIED

Miss India Fiji pageant to return

fter a lapse of five years, an international pageant for Fijian women of Indian descent will return to Fiji. The Miss Indian Fiji, last won in 2012 by Sheryl Kumar who was a student then and is an accountant now, will begin auditions this weekend. Pageant director, Ranjit Raju who initially brought the pageant to Fiji in 2009 when it was won by local media company director Naziah Ali is once

again behind the venture. Ms Ali and her friend Aliya Jan took over the venture when it was last operated in 2012. Meanwhile he said the first round of auditions will take place on Sunday July 30. The Miss India Worldwide pageant began in 1990 and invites representatives from all over the world who have to have a certain percentage Indian parentage to qualify to participate. - The Fiji Times

wo more Fiji Sun journalists have won scholarships to study in India in a continuing partnership between the news company and the Indian High Commission. Digital journalist Roneel Karthik, our online coordinator, has won a two-year scholarship to do his Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at the prestigious University of Delhi. Mr Karthik is a University of Fiji graduate in commerce and information technology with a post graduate diploma in business and administration from Massey University in New Zealand. Shahani Mala, a news journalist with a diploma in journalism from Fiji National Uniiversity, has won a three-year scholarship to do her Bachelor of Arts (BA). She will study at one of India’s biggest universities, Savitribai Phule Pune University. Both Mr Karthik and Ms Mala willl return to the Fiji Sun after graduation. Fiji Sun Publisher/CEO Peter Lomas said: “Roneel and Shahani are two of our very best and brightest younger journalists. They will both play major roles in our future. “Studying at such top Indian universities will be a transformative experience, both academically and in life experience. “We’re most grateful to the Indian High Commission for

High Commissioner of India to Fiji Vishvas Sapkal (left), with Fiji Sun news journalist Shahani Mala, and Fiji Sun digital journalist Roneel Karthik.

Roneel Karthik and Shahani Mala part of our future, says Fiji Sun Publisher

being so continually supportive of our efforts to lift the standard of journalism through better education. We already have six Indian university graduates in our newsrooms. And two more are due back next month.” Mr Karthik and Ms Mala were both farewelled by their Fiji Sun colleagues last Friday. Mr Karthik said: “I will do justice to this scholarship I have received, and I would like to thank my parents for their love and support and all my friends and families. “I will always be thankful to the Fiji Sun family for giving me the opportunity to prove myself as I had struggled a lot after return to Fiji after my graduation.” Ms Mala, acknowledged the guidance she received from Mr

Lomas, Managing Editor Training Nemani Delaibatiki, Managing Editor News Jyoti Pratibha, and Managing Editor Digital Rosi Doviverata. Ms Mala highly acknowledged the Indian High Commission for giving her this learning opportunity “I am looking forward to this new journey as I have heard so much about India and this scholarship from my workmates who went before me and by my lecturers, Maneesha Karan and Elia Vesikula. “I am thankful to my family for their continuous support and especially my parents and my grandfather who has never let me down and has upheld my decisions. “I would also like to thank my Fiji Sun Team who are like my family.”

The Indian Weekender

Friday, August 4, 2017

Mum: Please help my son get kidney transplant in India

mother of a 13-yearold boy is seeking public help for a donor kidney and $60,000 for her son’s kidney transplant operation in India. Without the operation, the chances of Ravouvou Naviri’s future survival are slim, she says. Ana Naviri said her son was diagnosed with kidney failure in April this year and required a transplant in six months’ time. She is still waiting for an approval letter from the doctors to do fundraising for her child. Ms Naviri said: “I am seeking for any assistance I can get to help my son.” Ravouvou’s doctor, Dr Amrish Krishnan, is supporting Ms Raviri’s plea for help. Dr Krishnan is asking the public to assist by donating funds or a kidney. Ravouvou has an A+ Blood type and according to Dr Krishnan it is very important for the donor to be of the same blood group, right body size and not have any medical condition. It was stated by Dr Krishnan that Ravouvou came to the hospital in early April this year and his scan showed that both his kidneys were swollen which meant that he had a partial blockage of urine for some time but the family did not notice it. He started his dialysis in early April this year

and the request for a kidney started as soon as he was diagnosed. Dr Krishnan said: “The reality is that most patients struggle to find a kidney donor due to the blood group being different apart from o+ or o- donors who can donate to any blood group. “Another difficulty we have always had was the perception of the public on what risks there are in being a donor. "Donating a kidney doesn’t mean that it will significantly shorten their lives, the way we are designed is such that we can survive with one kidney and in fact about one in 600 babies are born with one kidney. A human being can live with one kidney their entire lives and can live up to the normal age.” Three kidney donors came forward, however, they were not suitable due to some medical requirements. Dr Krishnan acknowledged those who have helped in fundraising. So far $20,000 has been raised.

FIJI

Editorial

Jacinda’s rise will keep boredom away from this general election J

acinda’s rise has saved the nation from the misery of another boring election. Boredom often engenders indifference, which in turn can breed contempt (in this case for the electoral process) and therefore a longing for anti-establishment populist politics. In that respect, our nation is well served by Jacinda’s rise to Labour’s helm of affairs, the one that should deserve an unequivocal approval from everyone having a stake in New Zealand politics. Until last week, the countdown to the election was quite stale and boring. Andrew Little, the man who tried to win the nation’s trust on many occasions purely on the basis of his probity and honesty alone only succeeded in copping consistent battering from the media, and intermittent criticism from the leaders of other political parties such as the likes of Winston Peters. Indeed, politics can be unfair and harsh sometimes. However, despite all of this, overall tone of the run up to the elections remained boring. The National Party was enjoying a near-insurmountable lead in polls, and the parties in opposition were keeping votes between them fragmented and in the process further eroding the cohesiveness from the possible alternative government. In a healthy democracy, a government’s insurmountable lead over the opposition can be boring, if not undesirable. It was only our MMP system that ensured some drama and had kept the National Party on tenterhooks to find the right coalition partner to form the government. Other than that, elections had become largely boring. This will change now onwards. The fact that the Labour Party is buoyant, with donations raining in and volunteers lining up to be part of post-Jacinda Labour script, was widely expected. The media has already described Jacinda’s elevation as “electrifying,” “monumental,” “blockbuster,” and someone who can unleash a “youthquake” in New Zealand politics to suggest that it will treat Jacinda with the seriousness and respect that it could never give to Mr Little. Mr Little’s jibe on Winston Peters as “blowhard” was taken in poor taste whereas Jacinda’s light-hearted comment that she shared a taste for single malt whiskey with Mr Peters was taken as a display of wit, and more importantly a vibe Some commentators have described Jacinda’s rise as a scene from the HBO drama series Game of Thrones, signalling our collective appetite for drama in our daily lives. A less-than-impressive question from the media about Jacinda’s plans for motherhood in the midst of her tenure as future prime minister has quickly galvanised many seemingly disinterested voters around the highly vexatious issue of sexism in public life. The social media is also abuzz with Jacinda’s rise. What evidence do we need further to illustrate the point that boredom has suddenly evaporated? At least for now – that’s the key word. Whether we like it or not our social attention span is at best questionable. Once our collective exuberance fizzles out the question that will emerge in front of voters is who to choose between – Bill English’s experience over Jacinda’s potential. Or the National-led coalition’s stability which has certainly been tested, versus the Labour-led Coalition’s possibilities which though are untested – and this is only if National would choose to project this way and Labour will be able to change the narrative as outgoing Leader Mr Little had hoped. There are endless possibilities in this election now, which is good for everyone. If National is threatened as many commentators suggest, or want them to be threatened, it is good for New Zealand’s democracy. Winston Peters is quiet though, and surprisingly so. It will be interesting to hear him when he speaks about Jacinda Ardern for the first time. From a Kiwi-Indian perspective, The Indian Weekender has already tweeted to Helen Clark about any tips that she has for Ms Ardern on how to bring back Kiwi-Indian voters into Labour’s fold. “You surely had the magic secret recipe (about keeping Indian voters in Labour’s fold),” said our tweet to Helen Clark. The tweet was liked instantly, though not replied yet, signalling that a new recipe is in the order to bring back Indian voters into Labour’s fold. It would certainly be interesting to know if any recipe or tip eventually is shared. However, many in the community can take some satisfaction from the fact that Ms Ardern is a product of the Helen Clark-Phil Goff leadership days. The duo, clearly have had tremendous success in connecting with the community. Though Ms Ardern will have to find ways on how to repeat and deliver Labour’s hard-nosed ideas on reducing immigration, and seemingly soft-pedalling on law and order – two issues of significant sentiments for the community. Till that happens, and beyond that, The Indian Weekender extends best wishes to Ms Ardern and sincerely hopes that the best party wins in this election and takes Aotearoa to new levels of progress.

Thought of the week “Happiness is when what you think, what you say and what you do are in harmony.” – M . Gandhi Auckland Weather forecast for the week August 4 – August 11, 2017

Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu Cloudy with a few showers

13° 7°

Mainly Cloud Occasional fine, increasing rain chance Light winds developing shower.

13° 6°

15° 9°

Rain, easing to showers

Rain with Showers little with northwind westerlies

15° 9°

16° 9°

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This week in New Zealand’s history 5 August 1914 New Zealand enters the First World War

ollowing the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the AustroHungarian throne, and his wife Sophie in Sarajevo, the capital of BosniaHerzegovina, on 28 June 1914, Germany gave its ally Austria-Hungary a ‘blank cheque’ to take whatever action it deemed appropriate. Although Serbia, which Austria-Hungary blamed for the assassinations, accepted almost all the terms of a harsh ultimatum, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia on 28 July.

10 August 1840 British assert sovereignty as French head for Akaroa

MS Britomart arrived at Akaroa, on Banks Peninsula, a week before a shipload of French colonists landed there. The ship’s captain raised the Union Jack to confirm British sovereignty over the area.

7 August 1997 Beatrice wins athletics world championship gold

eatrice Faumuina became the first New Zealander to win an event at a World Athletics Championships when she threw the discus 66.82 m, 92 cm further than her closest rival, Ellina Zvereva of Belarus, at Athens in 1997.

Indian Weekender : Volume 9 Issue 20 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.

The Indian Weekender

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Friday, August 4, 2017

Labour’s problem isn’t their leadership SUNNY KAUSHAL

ith Andrew Little’s resignation as leader of the Labour Party and Jacinda Ardern taking over the position was effectively a bloodless coup this week. The extraordinary event has left many people wondering whether it has changed New Zealand political landscape. Labour’s issues appear much deeper than who the current leader is. As Phil Quin (a former Labour staffer) writes: “The people in charge of Labour have guided the party through a period of strategic ineptitude, policy torpor, financial ruin and organisational decay.” Changing the leader 50-odd days prior to the election may not make much difference for voters and the party’s polling. People vote for parties and the party’s policies, not for the looks of a leader.

The people in charge of Labour have guided the party through a period of strategic ineptitude, policy torpor, financial ruin and organisational decay. Too many people, not only from the KiwiIndian community but also from the Chinese community and other immigrants say that Labour’s lack of firm policies on vital matters like law andorder and its obvious antiamong key issues for Labour in this election. immigration policy are detrimental enough Despite the destruction, pain, and suffering for the communities and for the future of in the communities out of spiraling violent the nation. crime against vulnerable workers and small ‘Law and order’ doesn’t even figure The Indian Weekender Friday, August 4, 2017

ANITA BRITTO

Now rests in peace forever in perfect harmony

Though we are heartbroken and saddened by this loss We thank God we were blessed to know a man like Wenceslaus

Born in Burma long ago in 1957

You passed Gods tests on Planet Earth and now you are in Heaven A businessman who had a heart and cared for all he met

Humane and so humble – you’re not someone we’ll forget A recipient of titles which speak the world of you

An instrument in God’s hands – tested, tried and true A skilled negotiator with wide-ranging expertise

Fun-loving and friendly – you always were at ease Faith, Friends and Family – meant the world to you How you had the energy we do not have a clue

Your service to the Catholic Church and all humanity Speaks volumes of an altruistic personality

You earned the admiration of everyone you met

businesses, the Labour leadership including its new elected leader Jacinda Ardern has time and again failed to stand up for the communities when they needed it. It hasn’t shown courage to

speak up for a justice for the victims and getting tough on those breaking the law. Slashing immigration overnight will kneecap NZ businesses and send prices and interest rates skyrocketing. “When we’re running at over 70,000 people coming into the country in net terms over the last year, yet even in that situation employers are crying out for skills, crying out for workers, if you’re going to cut off that supply of labour, that’s potentially going to have repercussions for the economy,” as Gareth Kiernan said. Without a Population Policy in place, antiimmigration rhetoric may not impress the thinking voters. • Labour: Cut immigration by between 20,000 - 30,000. • NZ First: Cut by 60,000-plus to just 10,000. • Greens: Cut to 1% of population (equivalent to 30,000). National, on the other hand, has lowered its immigration bar in its latest revised policy, giving a clearer message that it wants17 the country to be open to migration and being a successful confident nation with a strong economy. New Zealand is a country of immigrants. Immigrants bring necessary skills and contribute to economic growth. Immigration is important for New Zealand, it will be one of the key issues this election. New Zealandvoters willhopefully make a wise decision in September. Sunny Kaushal is President of the Crime Prevention Group. The views expressed above are solely of the author and does not necessarily reflects the views of The Indian Weekender)

NEW ZEALAND

Compassionate, untiring – You served with all your heart

Despite success in every field from God you did not part A charismatic person who sought glory in our Lord

At Heavens gates you were received, we’re sure by none but God Despite the challenges you faced in your early years

You didn’t forget those struggles and you always helped your peers

Your faith-filled life and readiness to help the poor and meek Are attributes and qualities that make you so unique

“Dum Maro Dum” your favourite song would make you dance and clown Was hard to keep up with your moves as you did not slow down

Your favourite song to Akash from “Aa Gale lag ja”

Was “Aye Mere bete sun mera kehna”

Your presence will be missed by all especially your three Susan, Akash and Sneha whom you loved tenderly

Their faith that’s firm will help them and they will hear your voice

Knowing you’re in His Kingdom will help them to rejoice It really is so fitting that you spent your final days

Commitment and Integrity – always an asset

Walking in His footsteps while you worshipped him in praise

A Mother Theresa fan – we’ll praise you and extol

Our Saviour lived and died for us – To him our Lives we owe

Your philanthropic ventures spoke of a mighty soul

To know you was to love you – you were gracious and so kind God lost the mould that made you – you were one of a kind Despite your papal honour bestowed by Pope Francis

Your caring thoughtful selfless ways is what we all will miss

You walked on sacred landscape – where 2000 years ago

Goodbye to you, our trusted friend, we know we’ll meet some day Until then “Age Quod Agis” and we’ll continue to pray For those you leave behind you –Akash, Susan,Sneha

They know with Saints and Angels you’ll sing Alleluia

INDIA

Parliament amends

Friday, August 4, 2017

Modi hails Mahatma, says 2017-22 decisive for ‘New India’

Right to Education Bill

he Rajya Sabha passed the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Bill, 2017 extending the deadline for teachers to acquire the prescribed minimum qualifications for appointment by four years. The Bill amends the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. Under the new Act, the teachers who do not possess the minimum qualifications as on March 31, 2015 will acquire the minimum qualifications within a period of four years – that is, by March 31, 2019. The Lok Sabha has already passed the Bill. Replying to a three-hour long discussion on the Bill in Rajya Sabha, Human Resources Development Minister Prakash Javadekar said that learning outcomes are important and have been defined. He said the teachers have been provided with handbooks and parents would be provided with pamphlets detailing what a student in a particular standard is supposed to know. Noting that teachers can get the prescribed qualification using the Swayam portal, Javadekar said there were about six lakh teachers with inadequate qualifications in the

private sector alone. “Concerns have been raised how 11 lakh teachers will be trained in two years? They will be trained through online and offline courses,” he said. According to the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, which came into force on April 1, 2010, a teacher, who did not possess minimum qualifications, was required to acquire them in five years. The Act was enacted to provide free and compulsory education to all children between the age of six and 14 years. The central government subsequently received requests from states for extension of the period to enable them complete the training process for in-service untrained teachers.

Teachers should register on the Swayam portal and they will also be provided hands-on experience by the respective state governments, he said. Swayam is a government-initiated programme designed to achieve access, equity and quality in education. Javadekar admitted that it is a fact that enrolment in government schools is declining by four per cent annually while that in private schools it is increasing by eight per cent annually. “We accept it as a challenge to uplift the government schools to a level where in a healthy competition our government schools will beat private schools and we will achieve it with your help,” he said.

India, Somalia discuss piracy, maritime security

ith many ships, including Indian ones, becoming victim of piracy in the Gulf of Aden, India and Somalia discussed piracy and maritime security among a range of issues during a meeting between External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and visiting Somali Foreign Minister Yusuf Garaad Omar. “The entire gamut of India-Somalia bilateral relations, including the issue of piracy and maritime security were discussed between the two sides during the meetings,” the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement. The Somali Foreign Minister also held talks with Minister of State for External Affairs M.J. Akbar. “Further, discussions on regional issues pertaining to developments in Gulf region and India’s neighborhood were held,” it stated. Omar, who is accompanied by a senior-level official delegation, arrived here on Monday on a five-day visit at the invitation of Sushma Swaraj. This is his first visit to India since he assumed office earlier this year. On Tuesday, the two sides also signed an agreement for transfer of sentenced persons in each other’s country.

The Indian Weekender

The Union Cabinet had in June given its approval for the ratification of the agreement on transfer of sentenced persons between India and Somalia, located on the Horn of Africa. Earlier this year, India had thanked Somalia for rescuing 10 of its nationals held by pirates. The Indians were crew members on a Earlier, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met Yusuf Garaad Omar, commercial vessel – Minister of Foreign Affairs & Intl Coopn of Somalia. e-Network project. Al Kausar – that was hijacked by pirates off The India-Somalia bilateral talks come as the Indian Ocean coast near Yemen. Somali China opened its first overseas military base in security forces liberated the vessel in April. Djibouti, in the Horn of Africa. Somalia shares India also offers Indian Technical and border with Djibouti on the west. Economic Cooperation (ITEC) training India-Somalia bilateral trade stood at scholarships and Indian Council for Cultural $391.05 million in 2014-15, a more than 51 per Relations (ICCR) scholarships to Somalia. cent increase over the figure of $257.27 million Somalia, situated near the Horn of Africa in 2013-14. with the Gulf of Aden to its north, is among the partner countries of India’s Pan African

ailing Mahatma Gandhi on the 75th year of the “Quit India” movement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the next five years can be decisive for people to build a “New India” devoid of dirt, poverty and corruption. “The month of August has seen historic movements in India,” Modi said in his Mann Ki Baat radio address, recalling the NonCooperation and Quit India movements against British rule. Mahatma Gandhi gave the slogan ‘Do or Die’ when he saw the intensity of freedom movement had reached the peak in 1942,” he said.

India will celebrate 75 years of the “Quit India” movement on August 9 and 70 years of Independence on August 15. Modi said the five years from 1942 to 1947 played a major role in India’s independence struggle. He said on August 9 people should take a pledge to contribute something for the nation. He asked every social organisation, educational institute, the public sector and others to help in making this movement successful. “We must also take a p l e d g e to ensure that dirt, "We poverty, corruption, must also terrorism, caste take a pledge to ensure that dirt, system and poverty, corruption, communalism ‘Quit India’,” he terrorism, caste system and communalism said. Modi said that ‘Quit India’ starting from 1857,

the country saw so many movements for India’s freedom. “In 1920 and 1942 we saw two different Gandhian movements. "What was common was the widespread support for Mahatma Gandhi. “We remember Mahatma Gandhi for his leadership during ‘Quit India’ and we remember leaders like Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan and Ram Manohar Lohia who took part in it.” The Prime Minister said people should take a pledge to build a “New India” and to “live for our nation and take it to new heights of progress”.

PM visits Assam, announces Rs 2,000cr to combat floods in northeast

rime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced Rs 2,000 crore for northeastern states to deal with the damage caused by floods that have killed 76 persons in Assam and affected millions. The Prime Minister, who arrived in Assam on Tuesday morning on a day-long visit to review the flood situation and relief works in the state, held meetings with Assam ministers as also alliance partners of the BJP-led government in the state. He also met Chief Ministers of Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. A memorandum was received from the Chief Minister of Mizoram, who could not make it to the meeting. Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the Prime Minister also announced an additional Rs 100 crore to institute a high-powered group, including scientists, technocrats and bureaucrats from central and state governments, to study the course of the

Brahmaputra river for a permanent solution to the floods in the region. Sarma said the Prime Minister also announced Rs 250 crore for immediate flood relief in Assam. He said the amount would likely be released on Tuesday itself. Modi has already released Rs 300 crore for flood relief operations in Assam. After arriving at the Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International airport around 10 a.m., Modi took an Indian Air Force chopper to go to Khanapara area where he met the chief ministers. An official release later said that over Rs 1,200 crore will be for repair, maintenance, and strengthening of roads, highways, bridges, and other damaged infrastructure in the region. The statement said that Rs 400 crore will be provided for improving the water holding capacity of the Brahmaputra river, which will assist in flood control. The release said an ex-gratia assistance of Rs

Prime Ministe Narendra Modi chairs a high level meeting to review the flood situation and relief operations in the North Eastern States, in Guwahati on August 1, 2017.

2 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to each of those seriously injured due to the floods has been sanctioned under the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). The government has also decided to constitute a high level committee, with representation from central ministries and states for proper management of the region’s vast water resources which are about one third

of the country’s total resources. The release said that the central government has approved Rs 600 crore as central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) in the current year. “Of this, Rs 345 crore has already been released and the remaining will be released immediately to assist the states in relief and rehabilitation work,” the release added.

Reopen Parent Resident Visa The New Zealand People's Party will reopen this in a more sustainable way that has better outcomes for families & the wider community. Oﬀering parents an initial 5 year work permit before getting permanent residence will give them independence to contribute to New Zealand.

Bring Last Family Member to NZ

Bringing families together in Aotearoa will create stronger community bonds, keep wealth from leaving the country. We will give family members a chance to become a New Zealander. An automatic 2 year work permit will let them ﬁnd a job without being hamstrung by government red tape and show the country they want to be here.

Honour Commitments Made to Students

Easy Visitor Sponsorship for Family

Students will get a 2 year work permit & assistance to transfer to a course that will provide them with skills & qualiﬁcations to become permanent residents. We will require education consultants to be Licensed Immigration Advisors.

Citizens or permanent residents will get the right to automatically sponsor visitor visas for family members. This will mean better decisions are made and families aren't left paying the price for government ineﬃciencies.

2,400 More Police On The Streets An extra 2,400 police will change the population to police ratio from 1:538 to 1:450. We will peg future police recruitment to keep this level and keep communities safe.

Legalise Self Defence We will adjust the law so that honest, hard working kiwis, whom ﬁnd themselves victims of crime do not end up in court. It will be up to police to prove the force used in self defence was excessive.

Get Tough on Youth Oﬀending We will deal with violent youth through tougher sentencing & intensive rehabilitation programs. Tougher sentencing mandates for the worst youth oﬀenders will make our communities safe.

Long Term Rehabilitative Outcomes NZ’s Prison population is at it’s highest ever level with 10,000 inmates. We envisage a system where sentences prioritise rehabilitative outcomes. Their sentence will end only once they have achieved this positive outcome.

INDIAN ABROAD

Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

Sushma Swaraj helps Indian diaspora has influenced worldwide parents of ailing Indian fashion: Anita Dongre abroad get visas D SANDEEP SINGH

eaching out to yet another distressed national abroad, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has come to the aid of an Indian hospitalised in France with a blood infection and helped his parents get visas to visit him. “Sardarji - Aapka France ka visa ho gaya hai. Bhagwan kare apka Beta jaldi theek ho jaye (Sardarji, your visas for France have been arranged. I pray to God that your son gets well soon,” Sushma Swaraj tweeted addressing the parents of Amrinder Singh. On Monday, Akali Dal leader and Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee General Secretary Manjinder S. Sirsa had brought the condition of Singh to her notice. Sushma Swaraj then directed the Indian Embassy in France to help Singh. “Amrinder’s family wishes to travel to France to save their son’s life as he is battling with the blood infection,” Sirsa had tweeted. He had also shared a video by family members of Singh who he said was “having a tough time in France owing to health problems”. On Friday, Sirsa expressed his gratitude on seeing the minister’s message that they have been given visas. “Deep gratitude to @

SushmaSwaraj Ji for such swift action for granting the visa to parents of Amarinder Singh who is in a France hospital,” he tweeted. In this regard, it is important to note that the current Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand, Sanjiv Kohli, has been proactively picking up the cue from the External Affairs Minister (EAM) of India Sushma Swaraj’s penchant to reach out to Indian nationals in distress when overseas. Recently, when an Indian national Gurvinder Singh was suffering from acute Pneumonia in the Auckland hospital, the Indian High Commission has fronted up in coordinating with New Zealand High Commission to India in New Delhi to arrange for travel documents for his father. The father had managed to arrive just on time to say final good bye to his sick son who eventually could not survive. However, Indian High Commission’s prompt action in reaching out to Indian nationals in distress while in New Zealand was amply on the display. It is also pertinent to mention the Mr.Kohli has a very stellar track record in helping others in distress and the Bollywood movie Airlift also showcases him going beyond his call of duty and helping evacuate Indians in distress from Kuwait.

esigner Anita Dongre has helped put India on the global map. And the woman whose creation Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton picked for an outing and who has unveiled two stores in New York, says the Indian diaspora has influenced fashion across the world. “The Indian diaspora has influenced worldwide fashion, making borders just a little bit thinner in the world of fashion,” said Dongre. About her foray into New York, she said: “We wanted to reach out to our overseas consumers. The US has a lot of young women who buy from us online or when they visit India. When we thought of having a presence overseas, SoHo in New York was an obvious choice,” Dongre said. How different are those pieces from the ones available in India? “The Grassroot collection that is available in every store and online will be the same,” said the designer, whose Bollywood clients include actresses like Kareena Kapoor Khan and Dia Mirza. And what about Hollywood films? “I have always maintained that I am a designer and love designing clothes. I enjoy seeing how stylists work magic with my design, but that is an entirely different skill-set. I would love to see Hollywood wear my designs,” she said. Dongre, who takes the fashion week’s audience to Rajasthan through her collections, is all geared

her village’s sacrifices to save the ‘khejri’ trees in the region. It’s this dedication and identification with nature that inspired me to both design this collection and plant a forest of 25,000 trees in the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary in Rajasthan,” she said. “The motifs and ‘gota pati’ embroidery beautifully translate the essence of the ‘khejri’ "Every onto silks. Deep hues of season the state maroon, ink blue and inspires my designs olive green accented with its rich heritage, with our signature culture and crafts. The last red fuchsia and collection, ‘Alchemy’, was royal blue highlight inspired by the wildlife of the collection,” she Ranthambore against the added. glistening sands of the What is particularly desert state." special about this collection, she said, is that it is ethereal and light at the same time – up to showcase her latest work at the much like the strong women of the India Couture Week. Bishnoi community. “Rajasthan is the backdrop to some “It is this sense of strength and of my most cherished memories. beauty that attendees will get a taste It’s the place I go back to season of on July 29th,” she promised. after season to draw joy, colour and Any showstopper for the grandeur from -- everything that is upcoming show? “Our clothes and so intrinsic to a bride’s special day,” the craftsmenship have always she said. been the showstopper at any of our “Every season the state inspires shows,” she said. In fact, craft has my designs with its rich heritage, always been the “hero” of what she culture and crafts. The last collection, does. ‘Alchemy’, was inspired by the “I have an entire brand that wildlife of Ranthambore against the celebrates learning from craftspeople glistening sands of the desert state,” – the simplicity of their lives, the she added. beauty in their crafts and their This time, her collection is a tribute dedication to technique,” said the to the Bishnoi tribe of Rajasthan. designer, who launched the House of “The Bishnoi tribe is most Anita Dongre in 1995. recognised for Amrita Devi and

WORLD

Shahid Abbasi takes over as Pakistan’s 18th PM P ML-N leader Shahid Khaqan Abbasi took oath as the 18th Prime Minister of Pakistan, after he swept the National Assembly election with a majority vote, five days after the disqualification of Nawaz Sharif by the Supreme Court. President Mamnoon Hussain administered oath to Abbasi, who secured 221 of 339 votes in the National Assembly. After winning the election, Abbasi said though he was the interim Prime Minister, he was not there just to “keep the seat warm”. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Abbasi took oath of his office News reported. In the National at a solemn ceremony, which had Assembly election, PPP’s Syed the armed forces chiefs, governors, Naveed Qamar secured 47 votes, members of the parliament, and Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh prominent political and social figures Rashid received 33 votes, and four in presence. MNAs voted for Jamaat-i-Islami’s The ruling PML-N head Nawaz Sahibzada Tariqullah. Sharif, his brother and Chief Minister An NA session to elect a new Punjab Shehbaz Sharif and Chaudhry Prime Minister had been called Nisar did not attend the ceremony. by President Hussain following a Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Qamar landmark Supreme Court ruling on Javed Bajwa attended the oath-taking the Panama Papers case on Friday, in ceremony, where he also interacted which Nawaz Sharif was disqualified with guests. as PM after being deemed Asked by a journalist as "I unfit to hold office. to how does he see the am also Following the SC democratic process, grateful to the the army chief opposition and Imran verdict, the PML-N agreed upon replied: “Democracy Khan for remembering had Abbasi, former is progressing; it is us in their daily Petroleum Minister, as a good thing,” Geo slandering."

its candidate for Prime Minister for the interim period till a ‘permanent’ replacement is elected. Abbasi has to eventually give way to Shahbaz Sharif, who is likely to compete for the National Assembly seat lying vacant following the ouster of his elder brother and then stand for the chief executive’s office. Following the announcement of Abbasi’s victory by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, the PML-N benches in the Lower House erupted with loud sloganeering in favour of Nawaz Sharif. Addressing the lower house after his victory was announced, Abbasi expressed his gratitude to everyone for the victory. “I am also grateful to the opposition and Imran Khan for remembering us in their daily slandering,” he jibed. Moving on, Abbasi termed the Supreme Court’s verdict on the Panamagate case “unprecedented”, saying that although the party was blind-sided by the judgement, “we accepted it as it was”. “We did not challenge the courts, there was no division in our ranks. The party stands as it was. No one wanted to joust for power - whoever the Prime Minister (Nawaz Sharif) named was supported unanimously,” he said, rebuffing rumours of cracks in the party’s ranks following the verdict, Dawn reported.

Migrants to Australia 'free to choose' where to live

he Australian government has said that while it aims to settle refugees in regional locations, migrants are "free to move" once settled. The remarks followed claims from local councils that refugees were causing overpopulation and putting a strain on vital services, Xinhua news agency reported. The Fairfield City Council in Sydney's west expressed concern that more than 6,000 Syrian migrants had settled within its limits over the last few months, meaning it now lacks the funds and resources to successfully integrate the refugees into Australian society. Local Mayor Frank Carbone urged the government to alleviate the burden placed on his council. But Federal Assistant Minister for Social Services and Multicultural Affairs Zed Seselja on Tuesday said that while the government tries to settle refugees in regional areas, they are "free to move". "When the government sponsors these individuals, we do favour regional locations. Many of these people are sponsored by particular communities and will, therefore,

share the costs of getting them here. Most often, they will settle where their sponsors are," Seselja said. "But when we accept humanitarian entrants into Australia, they have freedom of movement. We can settle them in Toowoomba, Hobart or Geelong or other regional locations, but in the end, people are free to move. "We do all we can to provide the services in regional locations, but we can't tell people that they can't move to Sydney or to Melbourne." Seselja said that while he understands that Fairfield's Mayor is concerned by the sudden influx of migrants, the figures being thrown around in the media "simply aren't correct". "Some of the claims made by the Fairfield Mayor simply aren't correct, though we do understand they've experienced a large influx. But funding follows the clients, so if more people move to Fairfield, it gets more funding," Seselja said. "As I said, we do our best to settle these entrants into regional areas, but the government can't dictate terms to people who are settled in Australia," the minister concluded.

The Indian Weekender

FEATURES

Friday, August 4, 2017

'BALANCE' IS THE KEY TO GOOD HEALTH A yurvedic medicine—also known as Ayurveda—is one of the world's oldest holistic healing systems. It is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and soul. It was developed thousands of years ago in India and over a period of time has gained much popularity in the global west. In this health special edition, The Indian Weekender spoke with Linda Sinden, an Aucklandbased Ayurveda practitioner, about how Ayurveda can make a difference in our lives, with special emphasis on summer-related health issues.

IWK: How did you start practising Ayurveda and how did you develop an interest in it? Linda: In 1993, I attended a meditation course in Holland over Christmas holidays. There, I had my first experience of pulse diagnosis from a lady Ayurvedic doctor. As I was calling back home later that evening to wish my family, I knew I was to become an Ayurveda specialist. At that moment, I realised I had found my dharma. It then took six years for the course to become available under the guidance of Maharishi Ayurveda and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. IWK: How aware are people about Ayurveda in New Zealand? Linda: Awareness of Ayurveda has increased greatly since 1989. Now, people often know about Ayurveda and use its principles and herbals to help stay well and to aid in restoring

health when sick. IWK: How has Ayurveda developed in New Zealand? Do you find it receptive as an alternative medicinal therapy in New Zealand? Linda: Word of mouth has been a key way in which Ayurveda has become known. Also, the classes that Wellpark ran in the past helped knowledge of Ayurveda to spread more quickly. I have even had a medical doctor suggest to their patient that coming to see me would be the next best step for them and have had some medical practitioners come to me for consultation. IWK: Do you think a person has to be sick to introduce Ayurveda into their lifestyle? Linda: When the body hurts, we often feel compelled to stop the pain and therefore are ready to take action and get help. When the body is okay, then we can be complacent. Today, I was speaking with a man who used to have head pressure, cloudy thinking, low energy with headaches and couldn’t find any help. With a few little changes in his diet and lifestyle and with some herbals, now he has been well for quite a long

time. He came back today because he started to feel something is not 100% and he wanted to restore balance before it became a problem. Increasingly, now people come because they want to understand the right food and lifestyle choices for their nature. People want to stay well and live a long happy life. Ayurveda knows how to help a person do that. IWK: Ayurveda says that a poor digestion is the root cause of many diseases. However, modern doctors rarely ask about diet and digestion. Why is digestion so important in Ayurveda? Linda: The quality of the fire and the quality of the cooking pot are important in the kitchen for making a nutritious meal. The same goes for in our body. The digestive power is the fire and the stomach and small intestine is the cooking pot. There is a saying in Ayurveda that you can give poison to someone with good digestive power

and they will make nectar and give nectar to someone with poor digestive power and they will make poison with it. When ama—impurities from partial or incomplete digestion of food—accumulates in the stomach and intestines, it can move about the body disrupting health functioning and bring discomfort and disease. When an illness takes a while to heal, it is often because the body needs to have the ama impurities addressed through simple dietary and herbal choices. IWK: What are three different doshas in the Ayurveda? Can you explain to our readers why this is so important in Ayurveda? Linda: All of creation is composed of five basic building blocks or Mahabhutas—earth, water, fire, air, and space. These combine to make three operating principles of nature called doshas. The

three doshas govern key functions in your mind and body and are called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Vata is dominant in the elements of fire and a little water. It controls the activities of the nervous system and the process of elimination. Its main seat in the body is in your colon. Imbalance in Vata causes roughness of skin, weight loss, dark complexion, anxiety, restlessness, worry, constipation, difficulty going to sleep, decreased strength, arthritis, and hypertension. Pitta is dominant in the elements of air and space. It controls the activities of digestion, metabolism, and your body temperature. Its main seat is in the small intestine. Imbalance in Pitta causes yellowish complexion, anger and resentment, excessive body heat, insufficient sleep due to waking in the night, weak digestion, inflammation, skin diseases, heartburn, and Peptic ulcer. Kapha is dominant in the elements of water and earth. It controls the activities of building and maintaining your physical body. It governs strength, immunity, and proper body structure. Imbalance in Kaphacauses a pale complexion, coldness, laziness, excessive sleep (nine hours or more), dullness, asthma, excessive weight gain, looseness of joints, and depression. Knowing which of the doshas are dominant in you by birth or nature can help you to stay well and to get well easily and faster when illness strikes. Knowing your dominant dosha allows you to choose the foods and lifestyle choices that will best suit you.

For more information about how we can provide health insurance for you and your family please contact advisers@nib.co.nz or speak with your financial adviser.

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SPORTS

Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

Kohli's team capable of extraordinary feats: Shastri

The Indian team led by Mithali Raj lost to England in the World Cup final at Lord's by nine runs.

Women cricket team won nation’s heart

rime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, July 30, praised the Indian women’s cricket team, saying it had captivated the country despite losing the World Cup final. “Banish the thought from your mind that you were unsuccessful. Whether you won the match or not, you definitely won over the nation,” Modi said in his Mann ki Baat radio address, recalling what he told the players when he met them after the World Cup. The Indian team led by

PM Modi praised the Indian women's cricket team, saying it had captivated the country despite losing the World Cup final

Mithali Raj lost to England in the World Cup final at Lord’s by nine runs. Modi said he found the players upset over their defeat in the final match. “I could see the tension on their faces. I said, ‘Look, this is the age

of the media. So expectations get hyped up to such an extent that if corresponding success is not achieved, these turn into despair and even resentment’,” Modi said. “Some people cross all limits of decency and say and write things that inflict pain and hurt.

"But it happened for the first time that when our daughters did not succeed in winning the World Cup, the 125 crore people took this defeat on their own shoulders, never letting the burden weigh down these daughters,” he added.

fter breaking the nine-yearold jinx by winning the opening cricket Test against a depleted Sri Lanka at Galle, India head coach Ravi Shastri exuded confidence on the Virat Kohliled India side to clinch the threematch series. The massive 304-run win in the Galle Test was India's first win at the venue, since Anil Kumble's side last won a game way back in 2008. During their last tour to the island nation, India lost their opening Test at the Galle International Stadium before bouncing back strongly to win the next two matches and clinch the series 2-1. Shastri, who returned to the helm of the side after a year, is confident that the current set-up is capable of reaching greater heights than some of the teams of the past. "This team has been together for the last two years. They are much more experienced now. They have already done things that a lot of Indian teams and a lot of big names couldn't do in their careers. Like, for example, winning a series here for over 20 years," Shastri told reporters here ahead of the second Test, starting on Thursday. "This team is used to doing things which other Indian teams haven't done, overseas. Forget Australia, I am not even touching Australia. A lot of tough cricket is coming ahead. I am very positive that this team can do things that probably no other Indian team has done," he added.

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How to stay safe online? The Indian Weekender

Friday, August 4, 2017

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Keep yourself Up-to-date

Keep your operating system (Windows 8, Windows 10) updated using auto-update feature of Microsoft. Also all the third party software that you are using (Photoshop, VLC media player, Picasa etc..) should be updated regularly with the latest version. Do not use pirated software and always use either free or purchased software in your system. Pirated software can be a home of viruses which can steal information from your desktop/laptop.

CHINTAN GURJAR

he internet has become the nerve of every people’s digital life. It’s a wonderful place to share and grab useful information and entertainment. However, it has a dark side too. With the increase in hacking, scamming and virus/malware attacks, it has become a potentially dangerous place these days. Recent devices such as smartwatch, smartphone, tablets and all the internet connected appliances has even greater risks from security point of view. This article will give small handy tips and tricks to stay safe on the internet to prevent majority of scam and hacks. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Use complex password

henever you sign up/register in new website do not use common password. Common password can be easily guessable by hackers and they can login into your account without your knowledge. Few examples of bad passwords are ‘123456’, ‘qwerty’, ‘password’, ‘abc123’, ‘password1’, ‘yourname@123’. Always use complex password by keeping below rules in mind:

¡ Minimum password length 8 characters ¡ Use uppercase and lowercase in

Phishing:

hishing emails are look-alike legitimate emails from the company/shop/website that you used/register or purchased things. When I say look-alike that means there is only minor difference which cannot be identified in the first place by anyone. Always look at the email address as fraudsters will send you an email asking for your personal information. For example you may receive an email from support@go0gle.com. Looking at first view you will feel that it’s a legitimate email from Google. However, there is one o and one 0 (zero) which tricks users and then user provides their personal or google related information in a reply of this email. This is how user’s account can be compromised or misused. When you are away from your home - you are away from your home. Do not share things in general. Never reveal your holiday plans. That will give burglars an idea, when you will be away and your home will be unoccupied. Avoid checking-in places on Facebook as that can give an idea to thieves and burglars when you are not at home.

Use 2-Factor Login Feature:

I the password

¡ Use at least 2 numbers in your password ¡ Use at least 1 special character in your password!@#$%*(). of strong passwords ‘i7oveMydog!!’, ‘dOG.lOv3r’

¡ Example

are

Smart Click:

A ke sure you click smart. Today due

to advertising and marketing industry, you may encounter a lot of ads while surfing any website. Whenever you see any ad with free stuff, amazing offers, bumper dhamaka and stuff like that, avoid clicking it. Those ads can trick you to reveal your personal information.

Hyperloop One passenger pod hits 310 km per hour igh-speed transportation system Hyperloop One has successfully tested its prototype passenger pod, reaching a speed of up to 310 km per hour. "This is the beginning and the dawn of a new era of transportation," said Shervin Pishevar, Executive Chairman and Co-founder of Hyperloop One, in a statement on Wednesday. The startup tested its first-generation 'XP-1' passenger pod and travelled for 300 metres as it levitated off the track. "We've reached historic speeds of 310 km an hour and we're excited to finally show the world the 'XP-1' going into the Hyperloop One tube. When you hear the sound of the Hyperloop One, you hear the sound of the future," Pishevar added. With Hyperloop One, passengers and cargo are loaded into a pod, and accelerate gradually via electric propulsion through a lowpressure tube. The pod then lifts above the track

n any popular website today, they allow 2FA which is also known as 2 factor authentication. It works as follows: For example, if you login into your Gmail account with ID and Password, Gmail will send you OTP (one time password) which is a 6 digit number to your phone, once you provide that number to gmail, it will allow you to login into your email. Assume your ID and Password are stolen even though Hackers will not able to login into your Gmail as OTP will only arrive at your mobile phone via SMS to which Hackers would not have access.

Practice Surfing through HTTPs:

hile surfing online or using e-commerce website for your shopping and travel booking, make sure the website uses HTTPS. You view that by seeing the address bar of your web browser. HTTPS is secure and it protects the data that you are exchanging from your end to the server which can be Gmail, Facebook, Amazon.

using magnetic levitation and glides at airline speeds for long distances due to ultra-low aerodynamic drag. "We've proven that our technology works, and we're now ready to enter into discussions with partners, customers and governments around the world about the full commercialisation of our Hyperloop technology," said Rob Lloyd, Hyperloop One CEO. Last month, Hyperloop One had announced the successful completion of the world's first full systems Hyperloop test in a vacuum environment. It was the first phase of a multi-phase programme which was privately conducted on May 12 at the company's test track, "DevLoop," in the Nevada Desert.

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Friday, August 4, 2017

August 4 to August 11 | By Manisha Koushik 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 ¡¡ Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) Going is likely to get better on the professional front. Something that you were unable to achieve previously will come within your grasp on the academic front. You are likely to take steps to make your love life more exciting and enjoyable. Good networking opportunity may present itself on the social front. Those trying to get the best price for their property may get lucky this week. Lucky Number- 17 / Lucky Colour- Light Blue ¡¡ Taurus (Apr 21-May 20) You may not be in a position to prevent someone from going ahead with his idea, so let it be. A property you have been eyeing for long is likely to come within your grasp. It will be difficult to bulldoze your way at work, as a senior may get into the details of your performance. Remain well prepared on the academic front to avoid getting surprised. Don’t be rash while driving to avoid unnecessary risks. Lucky Number- 1 / Lucky Colour- Peach ¡¡ Gemini (May 21-Jun 21) A great outing is in store for you this week, so get set to enjoy your heart out! A family event will bring you into the limelight. This week turns out well, as you are able to achieve your aims both on personal and professional fronts. Excelling in academics is a foregone conclusion and will add to your prestige. Meeting targets and going

beyond may make you a strong contender for winning extra incentives at work. Lucky Number- 15 / Lucky Colour- Chocolate ¡¡ Cancer (Jun 22-Jul 20) Someone’s caring attitude will keep you in a happy mood. You will be able to compel someone to change the date of a social event to be able to attend the same. Lover may need space, so respect it by giving a backseat to romance. Health tips given by someone are likely to come to your aid now. Your stubborn nature can get you into trouble on the professional front, if you are not careful. Lucky Number- 11 / Lucky Colour- Pink ¡¡ Leo (Jul 21-Aug 22) A small beginning may be made that will ultimately lead to profits. Someone who has caught your fancy on the romantic front may send positive signals. A chance for an overseas journey is likely to materialise and make you see new places. Someone in the family may make you feel proud by his or her achievement. You will manage to keep your professional front in order by being proactive. You may opt for an exercise regimen. Lucky Number- 22 / Lucky Colour- Electric Grey ¡¡ Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 23) You will need time to sort a personal problem, so don’t be hasty. Home remedy may come

in handy in getting rid of a nagging health problem. Keep your wits about in a competitive situation on the academic front. Don’t volunteer for anything at work, if you are not confident of completing it in time. A stagnating romantic life may need urgent resurrection, so be up to it! Weather may play spoilsport in a leisure trip. Lucky Number- 9 / Lucky Colour- White ¡¡ Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23) You will need to be in the forefront of things to ensure success. Attempts at coming back in shape will be richly rewarded. Money spent for a good cause will give excellent returns in kind. Some of you may get tempted to steal a short vacation in the midst of work. Facelift of house is on the cards and will provide a much needed change. Differences with spouse may crop up, so it is best to give space. Lucky Number- 8 / Lucky Colour- Lavender ¡¡ Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22) Your nature is likely to impress those around you. Chances of getting into thick soup over an issue on the professional front cannot be ruled out. Your performance on the academic front may leave much to be desired. Enjoying the company of loved ones is on the cards. Someone will be there to help you out financially. It is in your interest to improve your eating habits, if you want to remain healthy. Love life remains satisfactory. Lucky Number- 2 / Lucky Colour- Light Yellow ¡¡ Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21) Something said in jest by you may not go down well with your near and dear ones, so be careful. You are likely to remain in a confused state of mind this week due to indecisiveness of a senior. Increasing workload threatens to take up a major portion of your time this week. Setting the pace on the academic front will be a step in the right direction. Blowing hot and cold in a relationship cannot be ruled out for some.

The Indian Weekender

Lucky Number- 5 / Lucky Colour- Bluish Green ¡¡ Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 21) You may need to speak up for someone, so don’t run away from it! Something that you had been hoping for on the professional front is likely to happen this week. Academic front looks bright, as you are able to give a good account of yourself. Be judicious in putting money in betting or speculation, as luck may not support you indefinitely. You will need to prevent someone you dislike from latching on to you in an outing. Health remains satisfactory. Lucky Number- 8 / Lucky Colour- Cream ¡¡ Aquarius (Jan 22-Feb 19) This is a great week for you, when you finally get your way. You will feel proud of something achieved at work. Great opportunities await you on the academic front. Your resolve to become fit is likely to bring positive results on the health front. Money will no longer be a problem, as you spend wisely and focus on saving. You are likely to find your partner loving and caring. Romance is on the cards for some. Lucky Number- 3 / Lucky Colour- Coffee ¡¡ Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20) If you are waiting for a favourable outcome of something important, it is time to rejoice! Your financial situation is set to improve. Efforts put on the professional front are likely to get you noticed by those who matter. An alternative medicine may give relief from an ailment. Academic pursuits will prove fruitful and get you nearer your goal. A short vacation cannot be ruled out for some. Chance of setting up a new house may soon come. Lucky Number- 4 / Lucky Colour- Royal Blue

Crossword

Answers to last week's puzzles

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

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Tracing the story of Rakhi in India’s Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

history and traditions R RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

aksha Bandhan or Rakhi is one of the most auspicious occasions in the Indian calendar to show the bond between a brother and a sister. Like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and so on, this day signifies the purity of the relationship that a brother and a sister share, the love, care, and a silent vow that a brother makes to protect his sister. Celebrated on a full moon day in the month of August, this festival not only brings the brother and the sister together but also binds the family as one and ties stronger bonds with one another. This festival also creates an affinity amongst the Non Resident Indians toward their motherland, India. Raksha Bandhan has varied links to the scriptures, the mythology and a history of the colonial past of India. We bring some of the pieces from the celebrations that happened in different eras in India.

Rakhi and the Colonial Past of India

n 1905, during the partition of Bengal, then under the British Raj, Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore used Rakhi as a powerful thread to bind the people against this divide. With his gesture of brotherhood, he universalised the meaning of Rakhi that

limited only to the brother-sister relationship. The significance of Rakhi then crossed the boundaries of caste, race and religion and sent a strong message of togetherness, nationalism amongst one another. It became a symbol of nationalism uniting Hindus and Muslims in undivided Bengal under the British rule.

The legend of the Kingdom of Chittor

he marvel of Rakhi can be seen in the biography of the Mughal Emperor Humayun which had a chapter on the history of Chittor in Rajasthan. Queen of Chittoor Rani Karnavati sent a Rakhi to Humayun along with a request to protect her and her kingdom from the invasion from the Sultan of Gujarat, Bahadur Shah. Touched by this gesture of love, Humayun set out to Chittor to protect the kingdom, but it was invaded before Humayun could make it. Rani Karnavati and other women of Chittor sacrificed their lives by setting themselves on fire to avoid sufferings at the hands of Bahadur Shah. However, Humayun restored the kingdom of Chittor and gave it to Rani Karnavati’s son, and it was out of sheer respect for the Rakhi he received from her.

Alexander the Great and Porus:

lexander’s wife Roxana sent a Rakhi to Porus in 325 BC before the Battle of Hydadpes. The Rakhi was a plea by Roxana to Porus to have mercy on Alexander when he came to invade India. The Rakhi tied on Porus’s wrist reminded him of his promise to Roxana, and he let go of Alexander the Great right before he was to overthrow him in battle.

Origins of Rakhi in Mahabharata:

he origins of this great festival of brother and sisterhood can be traced back to the time of the Mahabharata, the world’s longest epic. To stop the bleeding on Lord Krishna’s wrist, Draupadi tore a piece of cloth from her garment and tied it on his wrist. Touched by this gesture of love, Lord

Krishna made Draupadi his sister and vowed to protect her always. This lead to the birth of Raksha Bandhan, celebration, now so deeply embedded in the Indian psyche.

In the mythology of India

n the battle between Indra, the god and the demons, Indra was almost defeated. Touched by the condition of Indra, his wife Shachi tied a thread on his right wrist, amidst chanting of Vedic Mantras. This holy thread signified love and power that drove Indra to fight again and win the war against the demons. Rakhi can also be found in the scriptures of ancient India, in the mythology of Yama, the god of death and his sister Yamuna. Yamuna’s rakhi to Yama endowed him with the blessing of immortality.

Pair the right eyewear with right attire

he right kind of eyewear can make or break your entire look. While black rimmed glasses are for the fall season, oversized glasses look great with high waist trousers and polo T-shirt, suggest experts. Ishaan Kataria, Gem Opticians and Salesh Grover, Business Head, OSL luxury, have rolled out tips on how you can amp up your outfits with the perfect glasses: Formal: The trending black rimmed glasses are meant for the fall season and the formal look. Another easy fit for any formal look is the gradient almost transparent lenses that can add the right amount of suave to your persona. Formal wear in classic hues of blue, grey, black should be accessorised with basic frames which do not subdue the simple and suave look. Casual: Face shape and size is an important determinant to choose the eyewear. The double framed look (frame in frame look) with tinted lenses could make an interesting eyewear option. The gold wired metal glasses are a classic and look radically cool. A much less aggressive version of an aviator adds an unusual sense of depth. Also the oversized wired metal glasses harkens back to the 1970's, minus the weight.

Oversize and Aviator Tryout. Even a trendy pair of an oversized square sunglasses can make for a stylish work look outfit. If you are still not all right with it, pair your work clothes with your stylish Aviator sunglasses and see the magic.

Half rimmed Aviator sunglasses: A trendy pair of half rimmed Aviator sunglasses with an interesting nose-bridge and fad mirrored lenses not just make a simple casual look classy, but unforgettable also.

Pastel/ Checked colour shirts, T-shirts go well with big framed or double framed glasses. Checkered shirts and a pair of shorts or jeans along with simple gold rimmed aviator also does the trick.

For that classic 1970's look: Keep your outfit subtle and stylish. Like a pair of high waist trousers, polo T-shirt and oversized sunglasses.

ENTERTAINMENT

Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

AUCKLAND’S HOTTEST BOLLYWOOD STATION

Sridevi:

Shahid Kapoor:

audience is demanding for a change in films

I am happy that S

ridevi is happy that filmmakers are keeping up with the changing times in the film industry and giving new content that the audience demand and love

to see. Sridevi has been one of the most enduring careers in Indian cinema, spanning Bollywood and regional film industries. That makes her – acclaimed actor, glamorous star, box office queen of her heydays, and Padma Shri award winner – the perfect person to say what it means to be a woman in this high-pressure industry. Since being a star is still a lot about one’s appearance, Sridevi says that it’s not an easy task for female actors to consistently maintain standards of perfection. They’re always under pressure to look good, even when they’re not on camera, she says. That pressure has only been increased by the age of social media. As for herself, Sridevi says that she managed to steer her career while keeping the pressures at bay. She enjoyed being a leading lady — “I got to wear different clothes, I got to do the best roles. And she didn’t let box office numbers kill her sleep. “If the picture does well, I’m surprised and happy; and if it doesn’t do well, then it’s part of your profession. You see what went wrong and try not to do the same mistake,” says Sridevi. Having spent almost five decades in the film industry and with almost 300 films to her credit — in Bollywood and regional cinema — she is happy with the state of affairs of the film industry. She is glad that the audience is now demanding a change, which the filmmakers are happily catering to. “I am very happy that the audience is willing to see something different [from what has been shown to them in the past]. It’s not only for those who enjoy watching films, but also the fact that it’s giving a push to industry people to deliver good content,” says Sridevi. The actor, who has been a part of hits such as Sadma (1983), Chaalbaaz (1989), Chandani (1989) and Mr India (1987), says that working with different content on screen also gives a sense of challenge to artists. “It’s a great thing for an actor as well because you progress in your work only when you get to do different [kinds of] films. I personally feel that this, indeed, is the best time to be in the industry,” adds Sridevi. With constant speculations about her daughters Jhanvi and Khushi making a Bollywood debut soon, Sridevi says, “As a mother, I am definitely concerned and worried about them. But the time has changed and you have to accept and be positive about it, and give your best.”

I had gone mad after watching Bajirao Mastan

Shahid Kapoor revealed during an interview why he chose the Sanjay Leela Bhansali starrer Padmavati

hahid Kapoor is busy with his Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie Padmavati. Shahid, who plays Deepika Padukone aka Rani Padmavati’s husband Raja Rawal Ratan Singh in the movie, opened up as to why he chose the SLB movie. The movie, which features Ranveer Singh as Alauddin Khilji, is all set to release in November. Shahid said, “It’s an intense, romantic and a very looked-forwardto film for various reasons. I think it’s a labour of love of Bhansali. I had gone mad on Twitter after watching his last film Bajirao Mastani, appreciating everyone, and didn’t know I’d be part of his next film. It’s awesome to be working with someone whose work I have admired and loved, especially in the recent past. It is a great cast and going to be a huge film. I am really excited, but I want to underplay it, so I am trying to do that right now.” He added, “I hope when people see the film, they realise that the heart of the film and intent of the film is very good. This country and the people who live in it, and specially the area we are talking about in the film, will be glorified and shown beautifully. I play a "This Rajput king and my character, I feel, will country and be admired by people.” the people who live Well, isn’t that something? Are you in it, and specially looking forward to this one? In an earlier interview Shahid had the area we are talking hinted that the movie carries a very about in the film, will be glorified and shown strong love story between himself and beautifully" Deepika Padukone. Can’t wait for this one already!

Wish my mother could see my success: Sonu Sood

n his 42nd birthday, actor Sonu Sood says he only wished he had achieved more success in his life earlier when his mother could see it happen. Asked if he had to change something in his life, what would it be, Sonu said: “I wish if I could have achieved more success in my life earlier when my mom could see that happen, she could have seen those movies, could see the success rate that happened after I lost her.” The Dabangg actor says the only regret that he always has in his life is “whatever I achieve, how much ever I achieve, my parents are not there with me”. Is it going to be a working birthday for Sonu? “Yes, I will be travelling at the time of my birthday. I am planning a huge event in Abu Dhabi for a cause, so I believe it’s a good day to start with doing something for others. That’s how I will be celebrating my birthday this year.” Sonu is not only appreciated for his acting skills, but also for his well-chiselled body.

Is it a pressure to look a certain way at his age. I don’t think there is any pressure.” “I feel motivated everyday by seeing people and listening to them when it comes to fitness. One needs to follow strict discipline in the life to streamline it, so it’s not whether you are in this industry/ profession of an actor or an engineer or whatever you are doing it, but I think when you respect your body, when you take care of your body, I think everything falls in place,” he said.

Big B advised Anil Kapoor to ‘never’ take a break

films).’ I went back and immediately signed two new films. I ctor-producer Anil Kapoor says he never took a break in have never taken a break in my 38-year-long career,” he added. his 38-year-long journey in Bollywood as he was advised Anil said that one of the greatest moments of his life was to by megastar Amitabh Bachchan to never “commit such a “receive the coveted Oscar (for Slumdog Millionaire) on stage”. mistake”. “I always look up to Dilip Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan, “All actors or directors across the world nurse a dream to Naseeruddin Shah and Kamal Hassan, who are great actors,” receive an Oscar. I had a small role in the film. This feeling of Anil said. joy shall remain in my heart till the end,” he said. “Amit ji took a five-year break after doing Khuda "All “Receiving the National Award for Pukaar was also a Gawaah. He had gone to New York to live a actors or great moment for me. normal life. I had gone there while shooting for directors across the "The film was quite underrated and it did not fare Meherbaan. I met and told him, I was tired world nurse a dream to well because at that time Hrithik Roshan’s film Kaho after working for 25 years in films, and wanted receive an Oscar. I had a Naa... Pyaar Hai had become a big hit. When I got a break. small role in the film. This “Amit ji told me, ‘Never commit such feeling of joy shall remain in the National Award, I felt redeemed and I realised that the fruits of labour are indeed sweet,” he added. a mistake in life. Never take a break (from my heart till the end."

Anil’s daughter Sonam Kapoor was honoured with a National Award earlier this year for her role in Neerja. Asked how he felt when Sonam won the award, Anil said: “For me, that moment gave me greater joy than the Oscar moment. When I saw my daughter walking up the stage and receiving the award from (then) President Pranab Mukherjee, it was a blissful moment for me.”

Celebrating the spirit of

HIGH COMMISSION OF INDIA

70-year-old

NEW ZEALAND

young India’s

independence

WHERE TRADITION MEETS MODERN

Friday 18th Aug 6pm onwards at Bharat Bhavan Kilbirnie,Wellington Sunday 20th Aug • 3pm onwards at Mahatma Gandhi Center Kingsland, Auckland

Supported by

Ajay Devgn blasts me

ENTERTAINMENT

Friday, August 4, 2017

The Indian Weekender

every other day, says Kajol

ajol is brutally honest. While her’s fans and friends adore her honesty, the situation is not the same with her husband – Ajay Devgn. In a recent interview, the VIP 2 actor confessed how Ajay has to face the repercussions of her unabashed honesty at social gatherings. She is one such actor who lay things out as is but this has given her some tough time with her husband and actor Ajay Devgn. While Kajol’s fans and friends adore her honesty, the situation is not the same with her husband – Ajay. In a recent interview, Kajol confessed how he has to face the repercussions of her unabashed honesty at social gatherings. In a report by a leading tabloid, the actor revealed how Ajay blasts Kajol everyday because of her not-so-diplomatic attitude, which often gets him into trouble. Kajol shared about the cost she has to pay, everyday for her being blunt. She said, “Huge cost. Ajay (Devgn) blasts me every other day. I can’t take diplomacy seriously even though it lands my husband in trouble with people in the industry. At parties, he chides me for saying things as is. But believe me, I say things in the nicest of ways with the best of intentions. Fortunately for me, people forgive me a lot. It’s difficult to be diplomatic. I’ll forget what you lied about.” Well, what an honest revelation this is by the VIP 2 actor! Kajol is known for not mincing her words. She feels blessed as she thinks that despite

being ‘straight on ones face’ people forgive her. Samuthirakani and Saranya Ponvannan When asked about that one thing she hates about playing pivotal roles and will release in Bollywood, she quickly answered, “I hate airport Hindi as well, titled VIP 2 – Lalkar. looks. It’s idiotic. It’s ridiculous to look perfect all The film’s music has been composed the time. I am not walking in heels with perfect by Sean Roldan and is set for a lipstick. After long flights, everyone looks like grand release. they survived a calamity. It’s fine.” On working with Kajol, Dhanush She also mentioned that she ‘can’t allow critics said, “Kajol ma’am is full of energy. to pressure’. Her energy is so infectious that it Kajol told to a leading tabloid, “Actors have motivated people to work with the same dehumanised themselves. enthusiasm. She is a very friendly and warm We hold ourselves to these impossible person. We had a great time working with standards because we’ve created them. Looking her.” Even Kajol has expressed all a certain way is an issue we’ve created. I wear praises for the actor. "I regular stuff, clothes which are comfortable. hate airport It’s not airport fashion. It’s what normal looks. It’s idiotic. people wear. I can’t wear stilettos while It’s ridiculous to look travelling. Flats were created for a reason. perfect all the time. I What is size zero? I don’t understand it. I am not walking in can’t allow critics to pressure me.” heels with perfect She also added, “I don’t take the fashion lipstick." police seriously. People have accepted me for who I am. On screen, there are requirements, which I understand. But beyond that, we need to draw the line.” Kajol will be seen in Velaiilla Pattadhari 2 next, directed by Soundarya Rajinikanth, and also starring Dhanush. The film also has Amala Paul,

Why is talking about toilet still taboo in India, wonders Akshay

ollywood actor Akshay Kumar, whose forthcoming movie Toilet: Ek Prem Katha stresses on the importance of building toilets and ending open defecation, hopes the film changes people's mindset about this "taboo topic in Indian society". Akshay told the media: "Talks on toilet are still taboo in India. I remember when I had to say a dialogue in the film which is, Ab biwi ghar aaye na aye, sundaas to laakar hi chhodunga is gaon mein, people were rethinking if I should say it or not. But as an individual, I think it is necessary... I mean who does not go to the toilet?" However, he is hopeful that things will change. "Our youth is very strong minded. They understand the necessity of using the toilet. Some people are starting to talk about it, which is great... It means awareness has been created. See, it is also about the mindset. In places where I have gone, I heard people saying, 'We don't do it (defecate) in the same house where we cook food'. "But how can they openly defecate on the field, from where the food is coming? Government is doing its part (by sanctioning public toilets)... People should also take a step." Directed by Shree Narayan Singh, the film also features Bhumi Pednekar, and is releasing on August 11. Considering the fact that the film industry is going

through a rough patch and that footfalls in theatres are decreasing, Akshay was asked if ticket price is one of the reasons for that. He said: "But then regional films and Hollywood films are doing well. If the ticket price is not affecting their business, then why ours? Maybe content is responsible then." Whether it is Airlift, Rustom, Jolly LLB 2 and even Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Akshay is acting in stories that project realism. Asked if that is a strategy, the National Award-winning actor said:

"If you are talking about issue-based stories like 'Toilet...', I think being a successful actor by the grace of God, if my association gives the film a better mileage and if the story intrigued me, I do it. "I got to know from research statistics that one child dies every five minutes in our country because of open defecation. Do you understand the intensity of the issue? That apart, if there's any story that is interesting, I do it." Taking one more step forward, the makers of Toilet: Ek Prem Katha have created a cobranded social initiative ‘2 For Toilet' with CleanMate, a brand of toilet cleaner liquid and home cleaning products by Future Consumer Limited. The initiative aims at raising funds that will be used to improve sanitation facilities across the country. "I am extremely happy that ‘2 For Toilet' initiative propagates the same message as my upcoming movie. Everyone, especially women, should have basic facilities of a safe and clean toilet," Akshay said. Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, directed by Shree Narayan Singh, deals with the need for sanitisation in India and is based on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Swachh Bharat campaign. It features Bhumi Pednekar and Anupam Kher.

Can't wait to work with Priyanka: Marlee Matlin

cademy Award winning actress Marlee Matlin has joined the third season of popular American thriller TV series Quantico and says she cannot wait to work with actress Priyanka Chopra. "Can't wait to work with Priyanka Chopra, Johanna E Braddy, Jake Mclaughlin, my old friend Blair Underwood and of course Michael Seitzman," Matlin tweeted. Priyanka welcomed the Oscarwinner and said that she cannot wait to have her on board. "Welcome to 'Quantico' Marlee Matlin. We can't wait to have you on board," Priyanka tweeted. According to variety.com, Matlin will play Jocelyn Turner, an ex-FBI agent who was known at one time as the best undercover agent in the field until a bomb blew up near her and rendered her deaf. The FBI put her out to pasture, but now she's being brought back to join a special unit with several other returning characters. Matlin, in real life, is deaf. She is a prominent member of the National Association of the Deaf, and is the only deaf performer to have won the Academy Award for best actress, which she won in 1987 for her first film Children of a Lesser Go. She has also won a Golden

Globe and has been nominated for four Emmys. Quantico, which introduced Priyanka in the West, is an espionage drama about FBI recruits training at the Quantico base. Along with Matlin, the third season have some casting changes with Yasmine Al Massri and Pearl Thusi leaving the show. The third season will span 13 episodes.

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Weber Bros Circus: Adrenaline

Date: Friday, July 21 onwards until Saturday, August 5 Time: 2-3 sessions everyday starting 1 p.m. Venue: English Ellerslie Racecourse, 80 Ascot Ave, Remuera, Auckland Adrenaline opens at Ellerslie Racecourse on 6th July where the show will run for five weeks before coming to an end with a final matinee performance on Sunday, August 6 with at 12 p.m. Dates include matinees during school holidays, twice at weekends. Adrenaline is a fistful of fun for the whole family, with extreme stunts, hilarious acts and daring moments that will have you on the edge of your seats. Acts such as The Globe of Death, FMX and the show-stopping Human Cannon, along with fantastic dancers, stunning outfits and entertainers for kids of every age.

CAB Pakuranga/Eastern Manukau

Date: Saturday, August 5 Time: 9.30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Venue: Howick Local Board Meeting Room, Pakuranga Library Building, 7 Aylesbury Street, Pakuranga CAB Pakuranga/Eastern Manukau will hold a free information sessions for newcomers on Career Counselling. This session will cover CV

writing, Cover letters, Interview preparation skills, Job search tools, The session facilitated by Janine Comer and will be followed by a talk on ‘what employers are looking for’ by Amelie Lecomte from Kelly Services and one of the representatives of Work and Income will explain how they can help in Job Search. Lunch will be provided. Please confirm your by phoning or texting Vani Kapoor at 021 459250 or email at settlement. pakuranga@cab.org.nz (registration starts on Monday 17 July)

Raksha Bandhan at Bhartiya Mandir

Date: Sunday, August 13 Time: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Venue: Bhartiya Mandir hall, 258 Balmoral Road Aucklanders can celebrate Raksha Bandhan with friends and family at Bhartiya Mandir Hall. There is no chargr for general admission; however, due to limited seating, RSVP is compulsory. The event is organised by Meditation NZ (also known as NZ School) of Meditation, a non-secretarian, non-profit organisation and established in NZ for over 30 years.

Date

The Indian Weekender

Indian Calendar August 2017 Day Festivals & Observances

1 Aug Tue Mangala Gauri Vrat 3 Aug Thur Sravana Putrada Ekadashi, Aadi Perukku 4 Aug Fri Varalakshmi Vrat, Damodhara Dwadashi 5 Aug Sat Pradosh Vrat, Shani Trayodashi 7 Aug Mon Shravan Purnima, Raksha Bandhan, Narali Purnima, Chandra Grahan, Yajurveda Upakarma, Hayagriva Jayanthi, Shravan Somwar Vrat, Sanskrit Diwas 8 Aug Tue Gaythri Jayanthi 10 Aug Thur Kajari Teej 11 Aug Fri Maha Sankasthi Chathurthi 12 Aug Sat Raksha Panchami 13 Aug Sun Hal Shasti, Balarama Jayanthi 15 Aug Tues Independence Day, Kalashtami, Sri Krishna Janmashtami. Masik Karthigai, Gokul Ashtami 16 Aug Wed Goga Navami, Dahi Handi 17 Aug Thur Rohini Vrat, Simha Sankranti 18 Aug Fri Aja Ekadashi, 19 Aug Sat Pradosh Vrat, Shani Trayodashi 20 Aug Sun Masik Sivarathri 21 Aug Mon Bhadrapad Amavasya, Pithori Amavasya, Somwar Vrat, Surya Grahan 23 Aug Wed Chandra Darshan 24 Aug Thur Varaha Jayanthi, Hartalika Teej, Gowri Habba 25 Aug Fri Ganesh Chathurti, Samaveda Upakarma 26 Aug Sat Rishi Panchami 27 Aug Sun Sashti 28 Aug Mon Lalitha Saptami 29 Aug Tue Durva Ashtami, Mahalakshmi Vrat 30 Aug Wed Masik Durgashtami, Radha Ashtami

With compliments from www.e-puja.co.nz- Hindu online Puja booking portal