E-Newspaper03092018 by Indo American News

Friday, March 09, 2018 • Vol. 37, No. 10

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Wrap-2 March 09, 2018

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Friday, March 09, 2018 • Vol. 37, No. 10

VIBHA Holi 2018

TIGER BALL P3 2018

Valentine’s Day By Jaz Creationz

Promoting

Houston’s Economy

IACCGH

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March 09, 2018

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March 09, 2018

Guests Toast the Diversity of Asia at 2018 Tiger Ball, Exceeding Fundraising Goal & Honoring Sylvia & Gordon Quan

Bonna Kol (Asia Society president) and Brad Bucher (honorary board director)

HOUSTON:

Tiger Ball 2018: Celebrating the Diversity of Asia, paid homage on March 3 to Honorees Sylvia and Gordon Quan, longtime Asia Society advocates. The event also recognized Co-Chairs Kathy and Glen Gondo, Helene and Stephen Le, and Sultana and Moez Mangalji, as well as Honorary Chairs The Honorable Theresa Chang and Dr. Peter Chang. The proceeds topped $1.2 million, well past the fundraising goal. Upon their arrival, the 600+ guests in black tie and national dress were greeted by several wishing trees along Southmore, strung with hot pink and red ribbons. (Wishing trees are a tradition throughout Asia.) The lavishly decorated 40’x240’ Chevron Gala Pavilion covered Southmore Blvd between Caroline and Austin. The tent was decorated in a Taj Mahal theme, complete with Moorish gates, lanterns, rugs, ottomans and lounging poofs. Guests enjoyed cocktails and Chinese performances by Dance of Asian America, who led a procession into the Grand Hall for dinner. A sumptuous Pan-Asian dinner was served throughout the Asia Society Texas Center building, which was thematically decorated and is itself an award-winning work of art (designed by famed architect Yoshio Taniguchi). Tables were arrayed throughout the Fayez Sarofim Grand Hall, the North Gallery, the cafe, Brown Foundation

Leela & Nat Krishnamurthy

Nancy Allen (board director) and Princess Shivranjani Rajye of Marwar-Jodhpur

Board director Dr. Durga & Sushila Agrawal (2017 honorees)

Ka Pā Hula Nā Pua O Kamali’i dancer (local Polynesian group) teaching guests how to hula Photos: Daniel Ortiz & Jenny Antill Honorees Gordon (board vice chair) & Sylvia Quan, co-chairs Sultana & board director Moez Mangalji.

Performing Arts Theater, Water Garden Terrace, and the Edward Rudge Allen III Education Center. After dinner, guests returned to the Chevron Gala Pavilion for panoply of decadent Pan-Asian desserts and an impromptu hula lesson from dancers from the Ka Pā Hula Nā Pua O Kamali’i Polynesian dance ensemble. Special guests included: His Highness Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur and his daughter, Princess Shivranjani Rajye, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Phoebe and Bobby Tudor, Nancy Allen, Joni Baird, Rice University president Dr. David W. Leebron and first lady Y. Ping Sun, Chinhui Juhn and Eddie Allen, Isla and Tommy Reckling, Andrea and Bill White, Alex

and Astley Blair, Lily and Charles Foster, plus many members of the consular corps. The one-of-a-kind big board auction items included the opportunity to throw the first pitch at an Astros game; a cultural tour of NYC with luxury accommodations, breakfast at Tiffany & Co NY, and an exclusive tour of the Rockefeller collection at Asia Society NY; 4 seats in the New York Yankees Legends suite; dinner for 10 with Rice University president Dr. David W. Leebron and first lady Y. Ping Sun in their 1920’s mansion; exquisite jewelry by Tiffany & Co. and Mikimoto; a curated tour of Toronto with first-class airfare; a progressive dinner for six at Tony’s, Vallone’s, and Ciao Bello; a sushi

and sashimi party for 30 guests hosted by the Consulate-General of Japan; and first-class international United airfare for two. Floral choices played a key role in this year’s decor. The greenery represented a wide variety of Asian and non-Asian origins and included peonies, hydrangea, cherry blossoms, manzanita trees, roses, tulips, azaleas, orchids, forsythia, pierus japonica, iris, prunus, dogwood, and phlox. A full complement of top-shelf talent created this year’s Tiger Ball, including décor by Rebekah Johnson of Bergner & Johnson, tent by Derek Widis of SPF Event Resources, catering by Gary Mercer and Jim Ewing of City Kitchen, DJing by DJ Senega of Karma DJs, and lighting by Bright Star Productions. Proceeds from the Tiger Ball support Asia Society Texas Cen-

ter’s 150+ public programs each year. Next year’s Tiger Ball is scheduled for Friday, March 1, 2019, honoring Phoebe and Bobby Tudor. About Asia Society Texas Center With 12 locations throughout the world, Asia Society is the leading educational organization promoting mutual understanding and strengthening partnerships among the peoples, leaders, and institutions of Asia and the West. Asia Society Texas Center executes the global mission with a local focus, enriching and engaging the vast diversity of Houston through innovative, relevant programs in arts and culture, business and policy, education, and community outreach.

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March 09, 2018

HOUSTON: Holi signifies the Spectacular Vibha Holi 2018 Brings Color and Cause Together victory of good over evil. It also signifies the advent of spring, the joy of friendship, and equality for all. On Sunday, March 4, on the grounds of India House, we saw a perfect blend of it all at Vibha Holi 2018. The grounds were awash with color as a crowd of almost 4000 people from all different ages, nationalities and ethnicities lost their inhibitions to come together and celebrate friendship while merrily throwing colors and water at their friends and strangers. In this way, Vibha Holi 2018 also represented the celebration of oneness across communities. Organized by Vibha, in association with Tara Energy, Namaskaar Entertainment and GlobalDesis and hosted by Houston’s best - DJ AJ (Ajay Kumar), this five-hour long event included live performances by an enthralling group of musicians - The GlobalDesis, the young and peppy Serene Kaggal, and rapper Somantic Nabil; Bollywood style dance performances by local dance groups in Houston; dholi Puneet Dave who made everyone groove to his beats; food booths by Bhojan, Chennai Express, Gayatri Bhavan, and Mirch Masala; and lots of prizes and giveaways including a 55” TV & $500 gift vouchers by Sterling McCall Toyota, Ipad by Ameriprise, Cricket bats by New York Life Insurance, food vouchers and more. Besides color play and entertainment, Vibha Holi 2018 also

included the Holika Dahan (lighting of the bonfire during which all evils are symbolically burnt), which was conducted by Shashtri Hardikbhai Raval of Sanatan Shiv Shakti Mandir. Another highlight of the event was the presentation of ceremonial checks for Hurricane Harvey relief. Thanks to the generous donations of Vibha patrons and fundraising by volunteer’s post-Harvey, Vibha raised $60,000 to support Hurricane Harvey relief. These funds were equally disbursed among two organizations: 1) Today’s Harbor for Children that provides healthy, comprehensive residential care to abused and neglected children, took a direct hit from Hurricane Harvey. The disbursed funds will enable them to recover from the damage; and 2) Houston Public Library Foundation will deploy the funds in a Mobile Express (library on wheels) project that will serve communities which do not have a functioning library after Harvey. Once the damaged libraries are open, the new Mobile Express will continue to serve the Houston community for the duration of its expected lifespan of ten years. Vibha Holi 2018 was organized by the dedicated efforts of Vibha Houston volunteers. Numerous volunteers jumped into the event head on– eager to involve themselves with the event and action

center. Vibha is a non-profit, nonreligious, non-political, and a volunteer-driven organization with the mission to educate, empower and enable every individual who wishes to make a positive difference in the life of the underprivileged children. All proceeds from Vibha Holi 2018 will go directly towards funding projects supported by Vibha in India and US that align with Vibha’s vision of helping every underprivileged child attain his/ her right to education, health and opportunity for a brighter future. This amazingly executed event was greatly supported by Rajesh Desai of Namaskaar Entertainment, GlobalDesis artists, Darshak Thacker of Krishna Sound, and Col. Vipin Kumar of India House; and sponsored by Tara Energy (Title sponsors), Sterling McCall Toyota (Diamond sponCONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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5 Love is in the Air: Beneﬁtting American Heart Association

COMMUNITY BY VANSHIKA VIPIN VARMA

HOUSTON:Valentine’s Day, the

day of heartfelt romantic verse, is celebrated all over with some form of indulgence, there are some socially conscious organizations that create a difference. One such organization, Jaz Creationz, organized ‘Love is in the Air’, in recognition of American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day for Women. The event was held at the The Wynden on Saturday, February 24, Celebrating Go Red for Women and raising funds toward the American Heart Association. The school of fashion and dance, Jaz Creationz, is backed by the multi-talented founder & CEO, Jasmeeta Singh. The organization raises funds for non-profit institutions by building bridges within the communities through fashion and culture. This event showcased some amazing talents across various genres and entertained the audiences thoroughly. The theme of this red dress- black tie event was to empower women and men on heart health education, coupled with some networking and rock-solid fun and entertainment. Jasmeeta Singh wears multiple hats and she is exceptionally well in whichever hat she dons. Her partners for this mega-event included Ekta Kapoor Taneja, owner

March 09, 2018

of Swan Construction and Amardeep Kaur Rana, while Gauri Seth and Jasleen Kaur were of tremendous help behind the scenes. The evening kicked off on schedule and the guests walked into the hall, dressed stunningly as per the theme. The enchanting DJ & Emcee, AJ, also known as Ajay Kumar welcomed everyone in his witty and humorous style of shayris and jokes, and sung a melodious track, Suno na sange mar mar. This was such a perfect way to start an evening that would be full of fun-tainment. This accomplished master kept the audiences’ spirits up by playing foottapping numbers and engaging them to groove along. His output was so charismatic that later in the evening it kept the audiences glued on to the dance floor even during dinner. He invited upon stage the organizers of the show Jasmeeta Singh & Ekta Kapoor Taneja. These gorgeous ladies dressed in red, thanked each of their supporters and sponsors. They then let the entertainment bit continue and enthrall the audiences. A solo performance by American Idol finalist Vincent Powell took everyone’s breath away. There is definitely no dearth of talent in Houston and this event was a testimony to this statement. While a duet by Vincent Powell and Melrose swept the audiences off the floor, it was time to shake

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a leg as Eddie and Megan grooved on to some spins and whirls on Ballroom, Salsa, Cha Cha, and Latin dances. Next on the list was an incredible belly dance performance by Bella Donna Dance Company, who even performed on some famous Indian songs. There is this amusing connect we notice when Bollywood songs are

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

March 09, 2018

HOUSTON: The 2018 IACCGH

Inaugural event was held on February 22, at the Legacy Room in Houston’s City Hall and was attended by a large gathering of members, elected officials, community leaders, resource partners and guests. The event marks the passing of the mantle from outgoing President Allen Richards to incoming President Swapan Dhairyawan as well as the introduction of his team. Executive Director Jagdip Ahluwalia welcomed the gathering and emphasized the fact that the Chamber has been fulfilling its role of promoting Houston’s economy during its 19 years of operation and has over the years evolved to become a collective voice of the business community. He also thanked the Guests of Honor – Mayor Turner and Consul General Dr. Anupam Ray for their continued support and encouragement. In a brief address, Mayor Turner described the Chamber as “an essential driver that fosters the economic link between American and Indian businesses” and stated that he would call on the Chamber for help in the event of a planned delegation to India in the near future. Offering an interesting statistic, he stated that in 2015, India was Houston’s 16th trading partner and today it is in the 14th place – a position that, he expects, will only move up. Reiterating the importance of this growing relationship, Consul General Dr. Anupam Ray quoted

COMMUNITY IACCGH 2018 Inaugural Reception

From left: Ashok Garg, Joya Shukla, Jagdip Ahluwalia, Consul General Dr. Anupam Ray, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Swapan Dhairyawan, Rajiv Bhavsar, Sanjay Ramabhadran, Alyssa Holmes Henderson. Photos: Bijay Dixit

Past President Barack Obama that the, “US-India relationship was one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century” and added that Texas and India’s close relationship has opened the doors for greater trade and commerce. Stepping into his new role, President Dhairyawan observed that small businesses are the backbone of the country but added that less than 50% of these businesses have a five year life span while only 33% of businesses reach a life span of more than 10 years. IACCGH, he emphasized, strived to change this statistic by developing opportunities for businesses through involvement and growth and he would continue to priori-

tize efforts to help small businesses survive and thrive. He further promised to carry the Chamber’s several initiatives with the same commitment and stated that he will introduce more seminars in the areas of legal, financial literacy and engineering for the benefit of members who come from all walks of life. He thanked the “Open Forum” radio show which has extended an in-

vitation to showcase an IACCGH member’s success story and said this special feature will be aired monthly He also encouraged the gathering to become involved with the Chamber, avail its resources, attend events, be visible, volunteer and most importantly, network as much as possible. He concluded by introducing his Board members and expressed his

appreciation at the strengths and expertise they were each bringing to the table. The Chamber’s next event to be held on March 15th is the Women Mean Business event and will feature Dr. Rathna Kumar, Artistic Director, Samskriti and Sunanda Nair, Founding Director of Sunanda Performing Arts Center. To register, please visit www. iaccgh.com

Love is in the Air: Beneﬁtting American Heart Association CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 played that the aura and enthusiasm catapults to another level. A surprise element took away everyone by storm, and the multi-talented trio Amardeep Kaur Rana, Jasmeeta Singh and Melrose sang a combination of English, Hindi and Punjabi songs. It seemed the evening had more surprises in store for all the guests. And a awe-inspiring act of an Ariel dance just proved that as the amazing duo- David & Laymen performed to it. The highoctane finale was the most colorful and fiery amongst all, where a Sikh dancer adorned by bright turban dancing to the super-sparkling and spirited dance numbers lured everyone to the dance floor. While the audiences were still in their jig, bop and hop fever, Jessica Rodriguez, Director of American Heart Association came up on stage and spoke at length about the organization, encouraging everyone to donate. She thanked Jasmeeta and everyone else for making this event possible and successful. The audiences, partially ex-

hausted from their dance moves, stepped into the dinner area where scrumptious cuisine was awaiting them. The mouthwatering spread was presented by Chef Sunil Srivastava by Great W’kana Café. A special Candy Buffet was presented by Always Sweet. Each member of the audience was handed with a special goodie bag sponsored by Umang Mehta of Deep Foods. Jasmeeta came up once again to thank everyone, and mentioning that she was overwhelmed by the turnout of the event. She stated, “Thank you God for all your blessings to me and my family. For the strength you give me each day and for all the people around me who make life more meaningful. I am very thankful to my sponsors for making this event a success”. Deco Art beautifully decorated the venue, RH Photography handled the photography and Videography was by SMB Films & Images LLC. The striking hair and makeup was done by KJ Salon’s Kiranjit Bhusri. The backbone of the show- the sponsors included Mr.

& Mrs. Arun Verma, Mr. And Mrs. Aman Sidhu, Vishala Grocers 5 (Dipan Patel), Nothing Bundt Cake, Starbucks Coffee, Mr. & Mrs Sanjay & Anjali Khanna, Print N Sign by Farhan, Business Advertising Store By Fransico Kiran, Umang Mehta from Deep Foods, Radio Dabang 105.3FM, 2 A Days & Grille, Sulekha.com, Indo-American News, TV Asia, Focus Merchants. The auction items included- Kendra Scott- Bangles, Treasure trunk by Simran Kapoor, and Gold Earring from Karat 22. The raffle items included Ashiana Restaurant gift certificate, Hot Breads gift Certificate, Ayesha Salon, and Anthony Vince Nail Spa. Jasmeeta’s events are memorable and captivate moments of life that are cherished for long. The next big event, Elite Halloween Fashion & Dance Extravaganza, is scheduled on October 27 at 7:30 pm. For further details & for information visit www. jazcreationz.com or call Jasmeeta Singh @ 713-858-8229.

Spectacular Vibha Holi 2018 Brings Color and Cause Together CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 sors), New York Life Insurance, Ameriprise (Jessica Paulin), Homeowner Mortgage, Prompt Realty, Deep Foods, Quik Tea, Britannia, Rameshbhai (Sari Sapne), Rajender Singh (Star

Promotion), Radio Dabang (Official media partner), Meena Datt Radio, Indo-American News and Radio Hungama. Vibha Houston thanks their patrons for their support and look forward to seeing them at their fu-

ture fundraising events. For more information about Vibha and for volunteering opportunities, visit www.vibha. org or https://www.facebook. com/vibhahou/

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March 09, 2018

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March 09, 2018

Nitin Sonawane Stops in Houston During his World Bicycle Tour

HOUSTON: Over the past few

weeks Houston has benefitted immeasurably by Nitin Sonawane’s stop on his epic journey to circle the globe on a bicycle, which he is doing it solo. Nitin hails from Rashin, a small village near Pune, Maharashtra, India. He started on his epic journey on November 1, 2016 from Sevagram, Vardha, home to Mahatma Gandhi’s last Ashram. Over the past 15 months he has logged more than 10,000 miles riding from Bharat to Thai- From left: Atul Kothari, Dinesh Agarwal and Anil land, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Gupta of Mahatma Gandhi Library and Arya Samaj Japan and now in USA. From pose with Globe Trekker on Bicycle, Nitin Sonawane, here he is headed to South Amer- second from right at Arya Samaj Greater Houston. ica, Africa, Europe, Middle East and end his epic journey in Lahore, Pakistan on October 2, 2019, Mahatma Gandhi’s Sesquicentennial, 150th birthday. Nitin hails from a family of 3 brothers of an extremely modest family from Rashin, a small village, near Pune. Upon graduation from college in Information Technology he Nitin at Mahatma Gandhi Library ofﬁce started working in that field. However, in search for real happiness he first turned to Gautam Buddha and then to Mahatma Gandhi when he came in touch with Maharashtra Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, the organization that is sponsoring his odyssey. It was here that the idea of circling Children of DAV Montessori School of Arya Samaj Greater Houston the globe to com- peppered Nitin with more questions than any other place in the memorate Gan- World according to Nitin dhi Sesquicentennial and increase awareness of his message Samaj and met with Sunday School children sprouted. who really embraced him just as children Mahatma Gandhi Library, MGL, learned have been doing all over the world. Meena of his stop in Houston when Nitin called Datt and Open Forum also interviewed him Atul Kothari on Monday, February 19. during their radio show. Ramesh Patel of BAPS referred him to Some of the most memorable moments of MGL when Nitin visited BAPS on Sun- Nitin’s epic journey have been day, February 18. Atul Kothari and Ajit • Visit to Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan, Paralakar from MGL met with Nitin and venues of the explosions of first atom bombs were impressed to learn that he had already • Walking with Buddhist monks in Japan visited several schools including St Agnes for 2 months Academy in Houston area to share his • In Thailand he was accompanied on bike amazing experience and story. He was in- by a Peace activist in Thailand. The peace acvited to stay at Arya Samaj Greater Hous- tivist rode with him and acted as his translator ton for the remainder of his stop. as well as made arrangements for vegetarian Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston meals. learned about Nitin’s layover in Houston • More upon publishing of his book upon and were really impressed with the pur- completion of his epic, adventurous journey pose, determination and sheer courage of To contact Nitin email at nitin. Nitin. They arranged for an interview with sonawane05@gmail.com or visit his FaHouston Chronicle. Later, Nitin visited cebook page https://www.facebook.com/ DAV Montessori School operated by Arya public/Nitin-Sonawane -World Peace and Samaj Great Houston. He also gave pre- Friendship movement sentation during morning satsang at Arya

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March 09, 2018 9 COMMUNITY S Kendra Gives Back to Children In India UGAR LAND: On March 5, 2018 at the Kendra Scott in Sugar Land, customers had an extra incentive to go home with a new piece from Kendra’s iconic collections. As customers made their purchases, they were doing much more than buying the latest trending jewelry—they were providing an opportunity for the children of India. Twenty percent of the proceeds from this “Kendra Gives Back” event (co-hosted by Pratham Houston Executive Board members Dr. Sapna Singh and Seema Sanghi) were donated to Pratham USA. Pratham USA aims to raise awareness and funds to support Pratham, one of India’s largest education nonprofits focused on eradicating child illiteracy. What could a non-profit helping children in India have in common with a jewelry store? Empowerment. While Pratham focuses on educational empowerment through its mission of “Every Child In School and Learning Well,” Kendra Scott empowers others through focusing on its three core pillars: “Family, Fashion, and Philanthropy.” According to a Forbes article by Barry Samaha titled “Jewelry Designer Kendra Scott On Why it’s Important for Fashion Brands to be Philanthropic,” Kendra states that “Every day our customers do so much more than add another beautiful piece to their collec-

tion—they are helping us make a positive difference in their communities.” This was especially true on this day, as supporters of Pratham and fans of Kendra Scott made a difference in the many communities Pratham supports. According to Asha Dhume, President of Pratham USA’s Houston chapter, Pratham has improved learning outcomes for over 50 million children in communities throughout India since its inception in 1995. Pratham is able to do this by developing low cost solutions that address gaps in the education system. Pratham also implements vocational training

education. This event offered more than a good excuse to buy jewelry; It increased awareness of a worthy cause. When event co-host Seema Sanghi was asked why she chose to partner with Kendra Scott, she said she felt this was an effective way to share Pratham’s mission with younger generations. She was also inspired by Kendra Scott’s story and history of giving. According to Hilary Wetmore, Community Relations and Events Manager at the Kendra Scott in Sugar Land, this location contributed over $60,000 through its “Kendra Gives Back” events and donations in 2017 since its opening in July of that year. Thanks to Pratham and Kendra Scott for reminding us of the importance of empowerment; Whether you are a jewelry conosoir or a philanthropist at heart, there is always a way to give back. Pratham USA will be hosting its 2018 Houston Gala on Saturday, May 12, at the Hilton Americas in Downtown Houston. For sponsorship opportunities and more information on Pratham USA please contact Vikas Bahl @vbahl@prathamusa.org or visit prathamusa.org. programs for young adults, placing over 75% of its participants into new jobs. Pratham’s Second

Chance program helps young girls that have dropped out of school receive a second chance at getting an

Written by Peace Cowen, Development Associate at Pratham USA.

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10 March 09, 2018

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March 09, 2018

Golden Moon Festival at ISKCON of Houston 2018 wore a festive look with flowers and special garlands made with popcorn donning its pristine marble walls and exquisitely carved teakwood altar. The festivities started off with abhisek of Gaura Nitai deities combined with chanting of the Hare Krishna mahamantra. Abhishek is bathing ceremony where both Lord Gaurachandra and His dear associate Lord Nityananda were bathed in colorful sweet fruit juices, milk, ghee, honey, yogurt, and other auspicious substances. HH Hanumat Presaka Swami gave an inspiring talk on the appearance of Lord Chaitanya where he spoke about the reasons for the appearance of the Lord, His form and His teachings for a devotee of the Lord to cultivate the qualities of humility, tolerance and mutual respect. A vegetarian feast was served to everyone following yet another aarti and ecstatic chanting of the holy names. To continue with the festivities on Sunday evening, the cultural program kicked off with a recital of the sole composition of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu -Siksastakam by the Sloka class students. The Sunday school children regaled the audience with several melodious Vaisnava bhajans including a mrdanga-violin recital. The final piece was a drama on the pastimes of Lord Gauranga and His Associates emphasizing the importance of the Holy Name in this age of Kali and concluded aptly with the resounding chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra. The festivities ended with a sumptuous vegetarian dinner prasadam. Over 1000 enthusiastic devotees attended the event on Thursday and Sunday.

HOUSTON: The International

Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) of Houston celebrated Gaura Purnima, translated as “golden full moon” signifying the appearance of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu during the full moon, 532 years ago. Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu also known as Gauranga, due to his golden complexion, appeared in Mayapur, India and propagated “Sankirtana” - congregational chanting of the holy names, specifically the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare, as the most effective means

to attain the highest spiritual perfection - Love of Godhead. Typically, devotees fast on this day until moonrise which signifies the appearance of the Lord. Gaura Purnima is one of the major festivals of Vaisnava tradition and planning and preparation for this festival started weeks in advance. The festival also marks the ushering of the Gaudiya New Year, and devotees from far and wide attended the early morning services at 4:30 AM to offer their respectful prayers to the Lordships and make an auspicious start to the New Year. The public celebrations started in the evening with bhajans. The temple

This year, a special holi festival – Color HTX is planned at the new Govardhan Urban Farm in Houston and is scheduled for Saturday, April 21. Please visit http://colorhtx.com/ for more details. ISKCON of Houston temple (located at 1320 West 34th Street) invites you to attend our weekly Sunday program, starting at 5 PM.

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12 March 09, 2018 COMMUNITY Therapeutic Music Concert Organized By IACAN

HOUSTON: IACAN strives to

meet the emotional and Physical needs of cancer survivors so they can regain back their productive lives. IACAN organizes several therapeutic activities such as yoga, gardening, painting and music for the survivors. The underlying reason for conducting these therapeutic activities is to educate, entertain, help ease the pain and provide opportunity to exchange relevant information among survivors and care givers. This “Buddy System” gives an emotional boost and a sense of wellbeing to the participants. One such activity was the music concert on Satur-

day, February 17. Professional singers, Mani Sastry and Krishna Prasad of Nada Vinoda Music Academy of Houston graciously volunteered to entertain everyone with their melodious music. The program was held at Madras pavilion, Sugar Land. President, Kumari Susarla welcomed the audience and introduced the singers. The evening started with Mani Sastry’s prayer song. The audience was mesmerized by their wonderful voices and the beautiful love songs they sang from various movies. These singers are talented and in order to please everyone in

the audience, they sang in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Kannada languages. The audience enjoyed each and every song thus showing that music transcends language and all other barriers. Since February is a month of love, they chose some of the best love songs for the evening. These kind of old songs bring back memories of India and good old days, which are at the back of the mind of many Indians living in USA. The high point of the program was when Mani sang a song in two different languages and the transition from one to the other was so well orchestrated that many did not even notice the change. The singers fulfilled the audience’s special requests and

the hall was filled with wonderful heartwarming, nostalgic music. The program was well attended and the audience did not want the evening to end. Thanks and Kudos to these wonderful, talented singers! The participants enjoyed a sumptuous dinner including tasty appetizers. Mahesh Shah of Madras Pavilion was very kind to provide with a delicious meal and the ambiance of the hall was just right for such a beautiful evening. While the belly enjoyed the dinner, the music enchanted the mind. IACAN thanks Madras Pavilion for their continued support. Sarvesh Bhavaraju, the secretary of IACAN gave the vote of thanks. The talented musicians enthused

the audience so much so, a young lady from the audience wanted to sing a song as well. Everyone enjoyed her song. She is a budding musician! The program ended on time at 9:00 PM. IACAN aims to help the survivors and their caregivers. Many such wonderful programs are in the pipeline. This program became a success because of wonderful audience and talented singers. IACAN appreciate everyone’s continued support and participation. IACAN feels it is the community, the survivors and their caregivers who encourage the organization to bring such wonderful programs and looks forward to bring more of such programs.

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

COMMUNITY

March 09, 2018

An Ode to Harmony Through Divine Music and Dance for Namadwaar’s 8th Anniversary

BY THARA NARASIMHAN

ANVEL: Global Organization for Divinity and Love to Share Foundation America provided synchronization of divine musical renditions and captivating dance performances in a unique presentation on February 25 at Stafford Civic Center on the occasion of Namadwaar’s 8th anniversary celebrations. Namadwaar Prayer House stands for harmony and peace both on outside and within. On outside, Namadwaar welcomes and engages with people of all cultural backgrounds and beliefs. And on the inside, the ultimate purpose of Namadwaar is to help everybody find that inner peace, harmony and clarity. Meticulous planning showcased the binding of variety and unity through harmonious ensembles of music, dance and theater from eastern and western genres and was aptly titled “An Ode to Harmony.” From the very start to end, music and melody was predominant. At the outset nearly 50 students of Gopa Kuteeram beautifully presented two delightful songs “Humko Man Ki Shakti” and “What a Wonderful World” that warmed up one’s heart. Gopa Kuteeram is a worldwide children’s enrichment program hosted by Global Organization for Divinity, active in four centers across Houston – Pearland, Cypress, Sugarland and Clearlake. Music connects people naturally; even newborns connect with music. When we hear a good beat, it makes us want to move. You might find yourself tapping your finger or foot in time to a song or nodding your head at a concert. The second presentation saw soulful renditions extolling the divine names carefully picked from Madhura Geetham, a collection of divine compositions of His Holiness Maharanyam Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji. Melodically divine voice of Maha Krishnan and Sandeep Kumrouth’s orchestra “ShreeKrithi” team captivated the audience with renditions of popular Meera Bhajans.

Krishna Gana Sudha Music Academy directed by Vidushi Smt. Rajarajeshwary Bhat included an ensemble of 30 children singing in joy and thrilling the audience with their mellifluous diction. The unison of singing the notes was led remarkably by Kruthi Bhat. Dhruva Musical, a theatrical presentation and a brainchild of Sri Ramanujamji with poems written by Sri Poornimaji aesthetically portrayed a life changing incident from the life of prince Dhruva. Picked from Srimad Bhagavatam, the presentation showed how Dhruva’s stern determination to see God, won the heart of his Guru and finally led way to seeing the Lord Himself. This musical will soon be a full-fledged production of G.O.D. The last segment comprised of an incredible musical medley beginning with Fort Bend Brass Quintet followed by the Pasadena Memorial High School First Edition Choir. This was followed by a charming Chinese folk dance presented by 3 young girls from J&H Dance School tiptoeing on their feet. The penultimate number was an unusual combination of Kathak and Bharatanatyam dance by Sreepadam School of Arts and Shivangani Academy defined as ‘Mile Sur’ Bharatanatyam and Kathak performance. The program also including the annual giving program commemorating Namadwaar’s anniversary. This year the beneficiary was “The Well on Masters Road”, a food pantry and nonprofit service organization located in Manvel, Texas. Special guests were Honorable Mayor Debrah Davison of Manvel, Ms. Ruth Dietz from The Well, Sri Ramanujam ji and Sri Poornimaji, disciples of HH Maharanyam Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji. The giving program segment was led by Smt. Thara Narasimhan, secretary of Hindus of Greater Houston, active community volunteer, and friend and supporter of Global Organization for Divinity who introduced the guests and conducted the program. They noted the enormous effort that was put in to have close to 200 participants of different

age groups, present multi-ethnic, thematic presentations of music, dance and theatre. Sri M.K. Ramanujam, a world renowned inspirational speaker and keynote speaker of the event, reinforced the universality of music that unifies humanity with a message of peace and harmony. He said that music helps us connect with the divine spirit within all of us, bringing about inner peace, also emphasizing that a harmonious world can be achieved by transforming individuals and how community charity organizations like GOD and LTSFA work with one person at a time hoping to make a difference in the world. Singing together for Universal Peace with Mahamantra chanting as the only path to easy salvation shown by His Holiness Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji, was performed by the whole ensemble led by Sri Poornima ji. Almost 60 children from tiny tots to adults sang in unison the grand finale of chanting of Mahamantra in many languages. It was a marvelous conclusion that made it a su-

premely divine Ode to a harmonious evening. Artists from the Pearland Arts League and individual artists from around Houston had displayed their themed artwork at the event. Special thanks to these artists as well as the sponsors Deep Foods, Gastroenterology Consultants, Kumon, Benefit Concepts Inc., RVS Insurance Group LLC and Royal Pharmacy. Global Organization for Divinity (G.O.D) and Love to Share Foundation America (LTSFA) are now gearing up for their next big event, Puranava – Children’s India Cultural Fest with Quiz and Art competitions, to be held on April 7th at Rogers Middle School in Pearland. Namadwaar Prayer House is located on 3642 Bailey Avenue, Manvel, TX, 77578. Open Daily. Phone number 281-402-6585. For more information about our organizations and upcoming events please visit www.godivinity.org, www.namadwaar.org and www.lovetosharefoundation.org.

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

14 March 09, 2018

COMMUNITY

Houston Youth Pays a Tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

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hadev, roared the Maratha soldiers under the leadership of a brave, and fearless warrior king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, winning many battles against the Moghuls. Shivaji Maharaj carved out an enclave from the declining Moghul rule that formed the genesis of the Maratha Empire. In 1674, he was formally crowned as the Chhatrapati (Monarch) of his realm at Raigad. He established a competent and progressive civil rule with the help of a disciplined military and well-structured administrative organization. He innovated military tactics and pioneered unconventional methods, which leveraged strategic factors, like geography, speed, and surprise and focused pinpoint attacks to defeat his larger and more powerful enemies. He revived ancient Hindu political traditions and court conventions and promoted the usage of Marathi and Sanskrit, rather than Persian, in court and administration. Till date, Shivaji’s birthday is celebrated as Shiv Jayanti with great rigor and traditional style by Maharashtrians. Maharastrians grow up listen-

ing to inspiring stories and history of Chhatrapati. To impart that experience with next generation Houston Marathi Mandal (HMM) organized the event as Shivjayanti celebration in Houston at Cornerstone Elementary School, Sugar Land. Inspired by the memorable stories of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the youth of Houston depicted Maharaj’s important life events through elocution, musical, dance, and art at the event. This event received an overwhelming response from Houston Marathi community. Over 300 people attended the event and enjoyed various cultural programs. Hats off to all the young participants who eloquently showcased a ferocious and yet magnanimous personality through short speeches. It was amazing to watch US born kids as young as 5 years old reminiscing Shivaji Maharaj’s tales in Marathi language. Thanks to the Marathi school teachers for training these kids so well. While one group presented information about the forts captured by Shivaji Maharaj, the other group presented the song “Vedat Marathe” and “Powada”. There were in all 90 Marathi students who participated in the various cultural events. The

entire Marathi generation respectfully salutes Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for upholding Swarajya values and Marathi heritage. The Marathi school initiative is exactly serving the purpose of expanding the Marathi heritage to generations. The event was further embellished by the beautiful art exhibition that ranged from paintings, stories and forts developed by kids and adults. This pillars of making the program successful were Marathi Shala coordinators, Vivek Chitale, Manjusha Jadhav, Abhishek Bhat, Prasad Kavathekar, Shreyas Bedekar, Manasi Bedekar, all participants and their parents, not to forget the community volunteers who contributed their time and creativity, efforts. Uma Rajguru, Neeta Patwardhan and Sonal Tuljapurkar were the judge panel for elocution and art competitions at the event. The entire HMM community congratulates the committee members for a yet another fantastic successful event. Huge thanks to HMM committee for organizing Shivjayanti at Houston for very first time in last twenty years. For more details visit http://hmmhouston.org/

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

March 09, 2018

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16 March 09, 2018

COMMUNITY

Stop Diabetes Movement (SDM) Camps Create Measurable Impact on Participants BY NIKHIL JAIN

HOUSTON:

Sewa International and VYASA organized ten-day yoga camps from Feb 16 to 25. The camps were held simultaneously at three locations in the Houston area (Sugar Land, West Houston & Katy). The camp is specially designed for diabetic and pre-diabetic people to help them manage and control high blood sugar levels with yoga routine and holistic approach. SDM camps are being conducted all across the country; so far 17 Camps have been conducted in Houston. More than 250 people have participated in these camps, from all walks of life since then. The 10-day camp included daily yoga routine, educative sessions from medical doctors and specialist on diabetes, stress management, food habits, diet sleep. At the closing ceremony held at Keshav Smruti, participants shared about the transformation the camp brought in their lifestyle and in managing diabetes. One of the participants, Neetin from Sugarland, says “I started doing Yoga regularly and my blood sugar levels have come down significantly, I enjoy the routine”. Venkat from Katy mentions “Last 10 days I have started sleeping better and I am much more relaxed, this was all because of the Yoga”. Another participant, Anu says “My family has history of Diabe-

tes and though I do not have now, I joined along with my friends to make Yoga a routine in our life and ensure that I don’t get Diabetes.“ Satya from VYASA presented data on the results of this camp. The drop in participant’s fasting blood glucose level and post prandial sugar levels was noticeable with just 10 days of practice (based on the readings provided by participants before start & at the end of these camp). The program concluded with Nikhil Jain offering vote of thanks to all the participants, doctors (Dr. Sudha Rajan, Dr. Ulupi Choksi, Dr. Sejal Desai, Dr. Kavita Patel, Dr Meghana Sa-

mant, Dr Sudha Tallavajhula); camp yoga therapists (Meena Kankani, Satya Pappu, Vijay Jilledimudi, Manju Banthia, Srinivas Suraparaju & Suveena Guglani); Vibhuti Shah; VYASA Houston Directors Vishwarup Nanjundappa & Smitha Mallaiah and their team; Irfan Karim of Unique Industrial Product Company, Arya Samaj of Greater Houston, Keshav Smruti & Swath Yoga Studio for providing their facility and partnering to conduct these camps. A delicious and nutritious potluck meal was served to end the program on a high note. These yoga camps were extremely successful and the participants are now looking

forward to keeping up with the practices. Sewa will conduct the next set of camps in various parts of Houston, from Sep 14 to 23. These camps are free of charge and have refundable deposit after participants complete all the sessions. For more information or to volunteer, please email info-sdm@sewausa.org or text (713)834-4909. Sewa USA is 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based non-profit, charitable organization. All donations (cash, cars, clothes, securities, etc.) are tax-deductible. (Tax Id# 20-0638718). Sewa serves humanity regardless of race, religion, color, gender or nationality.

Auspicious Laksharchana and Kalashabhishekam at Sri Guruvayurappan Temple

Houston:

Sri Guruvayurappan Temple of Houston (A Krishna Temple) organizes Laksharchana with Vishnu Sahasranamam . Laksharchana (Laksh - Archana) is an auspicious offering to Lord Sri Guruvayurappan. This ritual will be performed on Sunday, March 11 from 9 am to 12 noon by two main Priests and other accompanying priests. Sri Erinjadappilli Padmanabhan Namboothiri (Dallas temple priest) will perform this auspicious Pooja and Veda japam (chanting of Veda-mantra) along with Guruvayurappan temple priest, Sri Kakkad Mana Sasidharan Namboothiri. Typically, more than 100 devotees will be participating as a group in this auspicious Pooja(Laksharchana). This group with 100 devotees multiplied by chanting 1000 names of Krishna is equal to 1 lakh/100000 times chanting of Vishnu Sahasranamam. This special event will start with Kalasham pooja at 8:30 AM followed by Laksharchana, Kalashabhishekom ( 11:30 AM) with procession, chenda melam, Utcha pooja (Deeparadhana) and lunch prasadam. According to Thanthri(chief priest) Brahmasri Divakaran Namboothiri, performing and participating Laksharchana is very auspicious. Kalasha Pooja and Laksharchana will be

performed in a specially prepared Mandapam (on the right side of Sanctum Sanctorum/Sreekovil). The water in the Kalasham (metal pot) will be used for abhishekam of the deity. This ritual is performed in reverence for the purification of the deity and for the restoration of divinity of the idol. This important ritual, Laksharchana will be done with a coordination of several priests while temple is reverberated with Vishnu Sahasranamam Laksharchana is a unique ritual to experience the divine vibrations and concentration throughout the pooja and it is believed to achieve health and prosperity. The temple board chairman (Dr.Biju Pillai) informed that volunteers, temple employees and committee members are working together to make necessary arrangements for the grand success of event. To register for the Laksharchana and Kalashabhishekam please contact temple at 713-729-8994 and give your details (name and birth star). Event Location: Sri Guruvayurappan Temple; 11620 Ormandy St, Houston, TX 77035. For more information contact Biju Pillai 832-247-3411, Soniya Gopan 409-5157223.

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

COMMUNITY ABU DHABI, UAE: Prime Min-

ister of India Shri Narendra Modi on Sunday, February 11, 2018 inaugurated the BAPS Hindu Mandir model, and thus officially launched the construction of the first BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Sadguru Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami performed the foundation stone laying ceremony of the first Hindu temple inAbu Dhabi to be built on 55,000 square meters of land. The temple will be hand-carved by Indian temple artisans and assembled in the UAE. It is expected to be completed by 2020, and open to people of all religious backgrounds. The temple, inspired by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and blessed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, will be a significant symbol of global peace and harmony. The foundation stone-laying ceremony for the first Hindu temple in the capital of the UAE, home to over three million people of Indian origin was live-streamed to the Dubai Opera House where the prime minister was interacting with Indian and Emirati dignitaries from all walks of life. Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minster, thanked the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his generous gift. “I believe this temple will not be only unique in terms of architecture and splendor, but will also give a message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ to people across the CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

March 09, 2018

First Hindu Mandir In Abu Dhabi, UAE, To Be Built By BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

BAPS Swamis meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and present an introductory book of plans for the upcoming Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Indian community at the foundation stone laying ceremony for ﬁrst Hindu mandir in UAE

Sadguru Pujya Ishwarcharandas swami doing Foundation Stone laying ceremony of BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dabhi, UAE

Model of BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dabhi, UAE

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

18 March 09, 2018 Lessons from Mallya & Modi for Vidharbha Farmers L

iquor baron Vijay Mallya and diamond jeweler Nirav Modi could jointly run a crash course for the debt-ridden and beleaguered farmers of Vidarbha, nay the entire country: How to stay cool with unpaid debts. Mallya could tell the peasantry, for instance, how to convince a public sector banker to keep giving you loans, even when you continue defaulting on staggering advances. While Modi could educate debt-ridden peasants how to exit quietly and within time, alive. The venture could be called M&M. Peasants like Ravindra Pongale, from the distressed cotton belt of Vidarbha, should have learnt from the M&M tutorial how to deal with loan burdens and its consequent depressions. Alas, Pongale cut short his life when he found he could neither educate his children nor make profits from his arid and dryland four-acre cotton farm. He became a statistic on December 7, 2017, when he drank a bottle of herbicide ‘Round-Up Ready’ at age 37 – one more farmer to end his life in the country. He left unpaid debts of Rs 1 lakh, which included a crop loan from a bank and hand loans taken from his friends and relatives. Now M&M could hire Vikram Kothari, a top businessman, to educate beleaguered farmers, particularly those who grow wheat, on how to convince a bank to give you loans to import the commodity, for example Singapore, which doesn’t grow it at all — especially when your main business is producing pens. The government could nominate M&M under its Skill Development Programme. They need not make their MoU public under a “secrecy clause”. Nirav Modi plus Vikram Kothari together owe banks money more than the 2017-18 formal farm credit outlay for 11 districts in Vidarbha – where 3.5 million farmers live — of Rs 14,500 crore. With that kind of money and an equivalent amount borrowed from private sources, farmers grow 4.5 million cotton bales, millions of tons of soybean, paddy, jowar, tur d al, chillies and other commodities. Two loan defaults lead to two different outcomes, year upon year, a nightmare version of déjà vu. The former exits the country; the latter exits the mortal world. The irony is that millions of small and marginal farmers owe bank loans that are a pittance of the advances they have taken. This is because they need to continuously repay or restructure their formal crop loans to keep their current accounts active. Meanwhile, staggering under the weight of willful defaults, banks continue to ask for reinfusion of public money into their tattered systems. “Something is indeed seriously wrong,” former CBI Director Anil Sinha said on March 3, 2016, speaking at the 7th conference of CBI and Indian Banks’ Association in Mumbai. Between 2009 and 2015, gross NPAs in public sector banks (PSBs) went up from Rs 44,957 crore to Rs 3 lakh crore, he told the gathering. “We are not even considering huge amounts tied up in accounts under restructuring.” As of now, NPAs hover around Rs 6 lakh crore, going by RBI and government data. There is a growing trend in case of bank frauds and financial crimes, Sinha said. The CBI investigated 171 such cases involving funds of Rs 20,646 crore in 2015 alone. Add to that, ponzi scheme cases involving funds of over Rs 120,000 crore, he said, adding that the banking and financial system rot ran deeper and that banks delay red-flagging cases and thus allow defaulters to escape. –Indian Express Jaideep Hardikar is a Nagpur-based freelance journalist and a core team member of the People’s Archive of Rural India (PARI)..

EDITORIAL/COMMENTARY T

he alarming frequency of ceasefire violations, inflicting a mounting loss of life and property on both sides of the LoC, begs the question: What is the political purpose of force application? The question is valid as without political purpose the exchange of fire and cross-border raids would be guided by an independent military logic that could be described as senseless violence trapped in a cycle of revenge. Images in the media of reciprocal devastation portray the retribution that has been inflicted, stirring nationalistic instincts with mourning the dead, accusing the other of unprovoked ceasefire violations and swearing greater revenge. Therefore, it is assumed that the leadership of both India and Pakistan has calculated that the politico-military benefits outweigh the costs of devastation and death. The political costs are felt mainly by the civilian population straddling the LoC, as they are the victims whose lives are disrupted and large numbers have been relocated to temporary camps. If they are not relocated, they live under the perennial fear of being visited by the now-familiar sound of an artillery shell or mortar bomb. Apparently, these people have no political clout to effectively protest their plight and the state’s failure to protect their life and property. Only a re-imposition of the ceasefire agreement can restore normalcy to their lives. However, that prospect seems faint as the leaders on both sides are calling for a greater use of muscle, expressed in India as “mooh tor jawab” (strong reply). Armed forces on both sides get a lot of shooting practice to vent their anger and despite suffering casualties periodically, celebrate the pain inflicted. They bear the physical and psychological brunt of this cycle as a challenge to their professional competence, which is laced with pride and a sense of duty derived from partaking in a national effort. The primary victims are the civilians — the sacrificial goats at the altar of an imagined national cause. The Indian national cause is: Imposing such costs that it will thwart Pakistan’s abetment to terrorism in India. Abetment to terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir involves the provision of support for infiltration and carrying out terrorist acts. It also involves acts

The Toll of Revenge

In India, cross-border ﬁring symbolises the hard stance of the government in power. (Illustration: C R Sasikumar).

to subvert the minds of locals and orchestrating protests. The germane question for India is the feasibility of force application in imposing costs that will affect Pakistan’s will and, therefore, restrain it from supporting terrorism. The answer needs an understanding of the structure of geopolitical emotions that pervade relations between the two countries. A sense of visceral hatred characterises relations between both societies. Domestic politics will not brook any loss of prestige and honour that is affected by the other. A deep-rooted desire for payback also nurtures a strong will that can bear pain, as long as both sides have a “free will” that can impose agony on the other. In the framework of cross-border violations, militaries seek to maintain a tactical equilibrium through an “eye for an eye” and also hold civilians and assets hostage, which explains the horizontal escalation of LoC violations even to the international boundary. Even capturing territory to achieve domination that facilitates the inﬂicting of costs without much loss may not affect this “free will” for abetting terrorism and can, on the other hand, intensify its efforts of support. Also, the imposition of costs strengthens will as there is an escalation ceiling that is elastic and unstated, but observed, as neither side covets war.

Even if force application is devastating, the effect would be temporary, for the sheltered primeval hatred absorbs costs and demands vengeance, prompting a constant cycle of retaliation that has no impact on either infiltration or terrorism. Tactically, stemming infiltration while cross-border firing continues is more difficult as it engenders an additional factor that curtails free movement, which is necessary for counter-infiltration. The main beneficiary of LoC violations for Pakistan is its army, as they reinforce the Indian threat that sustains it in power. They also help to draw the attention of the international community to the border as the most dangerous hotspot — a narrative that helps Pakistan seek support by playing the victim card. Violations also provide an excuse to Pakistan to not take action against terrorist elements on its borders. The number of military casualties does not find much space in the Pakistan media, though civilian casualties are highlighted and deliberately exaggerated. In India, cross-border firing symbolizes the hard stance of the government in power. –Indian Express The writer is director, Strategic Studies Programme, Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru and former military advisor in the National Security Council Secretariat.

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COMMUNITY

March 09, 2018

First Hindu Mandir In Abu Dhabi, UAE, To Be Built By BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 world,” he said. Several thousand devotees from all over the world, well-wishers and guests participated in the Shila Pujan ceremony marking the ﬁrst step in the construction of the traditional stone temple. Representatives of all Indian religious denominations and communities, as well as, representatives of the Jain, Sikh, Muslim, Christian and other faith communities also attended the auspicious ceremony. In particular, Pujya Shri Rakeshbhai, founder of the Shrimad Rajchandra Mission in Dharampur, India, participated in the Vedic rituals. Speaking on the occasion, Pujya Brahmaviharidas swami, the spokesperson of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha said, “The generous gift of land for a Hindu Temple by the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is a strong and sound message to the world that cultural and spiritual inclusiveness is the way forward for global harmony. Especially in the 21st century, when the world is fragmenting for frivolous reasons, this timely noble gesture creates hope for unity in diversity. It reinforces the guiding vision of tolerance and harmony of the founding fathers of the UAE. We are sincerely grateful and indebted to the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, as well as the people of both nations for their commitment towards peace and harmony.” The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is both honored and humbled to have been invited and entrusted to design, construct and manage the Temple by the rulers of the UAE and the Government of India. Of all the 1,200 BAPS temples around the world, in India, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia and Africa, many

have been acclaimed with national and international awards for their art, architecture, beauty and excellence, environmental features and other social work. This ﬁrst traditional stone temple in the Middle East, inspired by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and blessed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj will also be, in its own way, unique and outstanding. The mandir will incorporate all aspects and features of a traditional Hindu temple as part of a fully functional, social, cultural and spiritual complex. The stones will be carved by temple artisans in India and assembled in the UAE. Expected to be completed by 2020, it shall also include a visitors’center, prayer halls, exhibitions, learning areas, sports area for children and youths, thematic gardens, water features, a food court, books and gift shop and other

facilities. Open to people of all beliefs and backgrounds, races and religions, this traditional temple will be a part of the UAE’s mission of happiness and harmony by helping to foster love, tolerance, understanding and peaceful coexistence. It will facilitate the traditional practice of the Hindu faith and serve the over 3.3 million Indians residing in and the millions of international tourists annually visiting the UAE through interfaith dialogue, pluralism and universal human values. It will also nurture the children of today and future generations towards a brighter future. Moreover, as a landmark addition to the UAE skyline, the temple will become a beacon of beauty, an oasis of peace, an ocean of spirituality and a home of harmony – a global symbol of faith and friendship.

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y popular demand from many readers, below is a reprint of Mama’s Badam di Burfi recipe. Go to any Indian city and you will be sure to find a confectionary- or a halwai as they used to be called before they built fancy shops – where you will find many of the most popular and common sweets that Indians love. Among them, there will be a variety of burfi (milk squares), in one flavor or the other, all of which are particular favorites of young kids. These days, you can even get burfi with a dark brown chocolate layer on top; and certainly those made with pista (pistachio), badam (almond) or kajju (cashew). They can be presented plain or with a traditional coating of warak (a very fine film of real silver or gold, though this is now only for special occasions) which astounds people – even second generation young Indians overseas – since they can’t believe one can eat a metal film! The other item that is a universal favorite in India are badam (almonds) and these are eaten in many forms and especially as ingredients in making sweets. Almonds are native to the Middle East, North Africa and the Indian Subcontinent, but the majority of them are grown in California, which is the world’s top producer, while India is not even in the top 10 list. In addition, badam are used in ceremonial havans (religious rites) since time immemorial and their oil is used for medicinal purposes as well as in cosmetics. Almonds are high in energy as they are high in carbohydrates, fat and protein as well as in many minerals, especially magnesium and phosphorus. In the old-fashioned, traditional way, burfi is made by using whole milk, heavy with cream, and letting it boil

on a stove till it has evaporated down to a thickened layer called khoya. It’s a time consuming process that requires patience, the ability to stand over a hot stove for long hours and continually stir the milk so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom and burn. This recipe uses coarsely ground badam and is a fast way to make a tasty burﬁ that can match the store made ones. It is quick and easy to make - in about 30 minutes – and those who eat it will never know the difference!

thoroughly. 2. Coat your hands with some vegetable oil so that the mixture will not stick. Then, knead the mixture with your hands and form into a ball. 3. Coat a large, clean dinner plate with a thin ﬁlm of vegetable oil so that the mixture will not stick. 4. Take the ball out the bowl and place on the dinner plate. 5. Coat a velna (rolling pin) with some oil so that it won’t stick. Then use it to spread the ball on the plate into a ½ thick ﬂat pancake. 6. Cover with some wax paper and place the plate in the fridge for 30 minutes. 7. Remove from fridge and then cut the pancake into 1.5 inch square or diamond shapes and serve at room temperature.

Ingredients: • 1 cup non-fat milk powder • 1 cup badam powder (almond powder) • 1/2 can condensed milk Directions: 1. Pour the badam powder and milk powder in a bowl, then slowly add the sweet condensed milk and mix

Shakuntla Malhotra is a skilled cook of Punjabi dishes made in the oldfashioned style that she learnt as a young woman in her ancestral home in Lyallpur, India (since renamed Faisalabad) before it became part of Pakistan after the Partition in 1947. People have often admired her cooking for its simplicity and taste that comes with each mouthful. Even in her late-eighties, she continues to cook daily and agreed to share her delectable Punjabi vegetarian recipes for future generations.

MAMA’S TIP O F THE

WEEK

WHEN COOKIN G WITH A TAVA, DON’T WASTE THE LEFTOVER HEAT!

Many people still co ok their rotis (flatbre heat them up on a ads) fresh at home tava (flatplate) or a frying pan. This is or at least to get the real flav the best way or out of the wheat an will just cover the roti in paper and he d roti, although many people at th noticed that there is a big difference be em in a microwave. I have tween the two way roti: when done in s of the tava makes them cr microwave, they come out slightly so heating ggy but the ispier. But after the rotis ar e heated and the sto ve turned off, use th ing from the tava to e heat comw anything else. In th arm up other items, like water or a bo wl of dal or is way, you are recy cling the heat for ot her use!

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INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

March 09, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT:REVIEWS/NEWS ENTERTAINMENT:REVIEWS/NEWS

Pari movie: The Anushka Sharma Starrer Fails to Rise Above its Silliness That this is an anti-fairy tale we By the end of it, a good couple of

why Arnab (Chatterjee) feels like he owes her something, and why the two of them seem to constantly be swimming through murk, why a man with a damaged eye (Kapoor) shows up with a bunch of his weapon-bearing men. But the whole enterprise never rises above

its silliness. The plot, trying desperately for gravitas by referencing certain yesteryear events in Bangladesh, without really giving us a credible reason, never hangs together, never feels true. Mumbo jumbo about ‘ifrits’ (evil spirits) is bunged in, and a lot of blood is let.

quarts of the red stuff have been spilled, but instead of scary, it’s all too dreary. Is anyone fully wicked? Conversely, is anyone really all good? And cannot love conquer all? If the ﬁlm had been able to incorporate the ideas that it throws up, Pari may have had something to say. But it doesn’t. Anushka Sharma plays Rukhsana with a great deal of bloody enthusiasm. You cannot accuse her of not trying hard, but the ﬁlm is so poorly-written, and so scatter-brained that nothing can rescue it, not even a leading lady who is determined to do something different with her producing heft. Poor Parambrata Chatterjee is left trying to hold up the story, such as it is, and is the only one left standing. In Sharma’s previous effort, we met cheery ghosts (Phillauri). And now, it is evil spirits. She clearly wants to break out and do something unconventional, but this is not it. How about plain ol’ humans the next time around? -indianexpres..com

Shashi Kapoor, Sridevi Remembered at Oscars

Indian cinema icon Shashi Kapoor

and India’s first female superstar Sridevi were honoured at the 90th Academy Awards ceremony here during the “In Memoriam” montage. The Indian stars got a musical tribute by Eddie Vedder who took the stage to sing Tom Petty’s “Room at the top”. Actress Jennifer Garner introduced the segment by paying tribute to late starAudrey Hepburn. “There is no joy without sorrow,” Garner said, and then acknowledged the loss of film world with the departed souls. SonofPrithvirajKapoorandyounger brother of Raj Kapoor and Shammi Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor made his debut in Bollywood with the 1961 film “Dharmputra” after working as a child artist. He passed away in December 2017. Bollywood’s ultimate “charm house” Shashi Kapoor then went on to make a name for himself globally by associating with inter-

national cinema. He was honoured with the Padma Bhushan -- the third highest civilian honour -- by the Indian government in 2011. In 2015, he was bestowed with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Sridevi, known for her ability to slip into myriad roles, expressive eyes, sheer comic timing and her ﬂuid dancing skills, died on February 24. Her death left everyone shocked, and saddened. They were included in the annual montage along with stars such as John Heard, Tony Anne Walker, Jane Foray, Robert Osborne, Martin Landau, Glenne Headly, Roger Moore, George A. Romero and Jerry Lewis. With Jimmy Kimmel as a host, the ceremony was held at the Dolby Theatre here on Sunday night. -timesoﬁndia.com

Shreya Ghoshal March 12, 1984

Happy Birthday

know because the tagline tells us so. But Pari, which styles itself as a supernatural horror ﬂick, takes the burden of its song very seriously indeed: right from the beginning, and in almost every frame subsequently, there is darkness, evil, blood, Satanists, satanic verses, bruised women in chains and men with hacksaws. It’s all drummed in. That’s your supernatural part. The horror part of it unspools right alongside. Thunder, lightning, rain, women in black robes with rotten skulls for faces, noises off, creaking doors. What you don’t get, in all this blood-andgore and groan-and-moan and slash-and-burn, is a ﬁlm. By the time we begin piecing the pieces, it’s well past the half-way mark. And then, very rapidly, Pari becomes all exposition and explanation. We start getting answers to why the mysterious Rukhsana ( Sharma) who emerges from a hut by a swamp in a forest (yes, all those things in a row) behaves the way she does,

You’ll be remembered forever

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

Atif Aslam

March 12, 1983

Aamir Khan

March 14, 1965

Abhay Deol

March 15, 1976

Alia Bhatt

March 15, 1993

Honey Singh

March 15, 1983

22 March 09, 2018 India vs SL: Kusal Perera’s Assault Helps Sri Lanka Hunt Down 175 BY ANDREW FIDEL FERNANDO

OLOMBO (ESPN Cricinfo): Sri Lanka 175 for 5 (Kusal Perera 66, Sundar 2-28) beat India 174 for 5 (Dhawan 90, Chameera 2-32) by five wickets. Sri Lanka rode a 22-ball fifty from Kusal Perera, and a proficient finish from Thisara Perera, to victory in the Nidahas Trophy opener against India, though the chase of 175 was not without its tense moments. With four overs remaining in the chase, Sri Lanka needed 35 and had two relatively new batsmen at the crease. Although India’s quicks were briefly ascendant, a six and a four down the ground from Thisara lurched Sri Lanka to the brink of victory. He would complete the win himself, with a swipe to the fine-leg boundary, with nine balls still left in the innings. Asked to bat first, India had lost two early wickets, but mustered a competitive total thanks largely to Shikhar Dhawan, who made 90 off 49 balls - his best score in the format. Dhawan’s 95-run stand with Manish Pandey was the centrepiece of India’s innings, though perhaps they will be disappointed to not have made at least 10 runs more, given the position Dhawan had left them in. Two spinners - Jeevan Mendis and Danushka Gunathilaka - had taken a wicket apiece and kept the scoring in check through the latter half of the innings. It was Kusal who had got Sri Lanka well ahead of the asking rate, and he had done it inside the Powerplay. He slog swept the second ball of his innings for six, and then really took flight in the next over - the third of the innings - bowled by Shardul Thakur. Kusal walloped the first ball nonchalantly over midwicket for four, the second he carved behind point, the third he drilled to the cover boundary, and the fourth - a slower delivery -

SPORTS

Azlan Shah Cup: Australia Outplay India 4-2

IPOH (Malaysia): A listless India

Kusal Perera rolls out the switch hit, Sri Lanka v India, Nidahas Trophy, Colombo, March 6, 2018

was lifted over the long-on boundary. The bowler’s mind muddled now, he sent a chest-high full toss at Kusal, who had no issues thumping the noball to the cover fence. Another four, this one smoked down the ground, brought the total for the over to 27. Only with the last ball did Thakur gain some respite - a short delivery was merely bunted to fine leg. India, however, were now scrambling to contain Kusal. His partner Danushka Gunathilaka would soon hole out to mid-off, but even he had hit three boundaries. Though Sri Lanka had lost both their openers by the end of the fifth over, they had hit 70 runs. After the field restrictions were relaxed, Kusal hit only the occasional boundary, but the cushion of a fast start meant Sri Lanka’s middle order could afford a few stutters. Dinesh Chandimal made an awkward 14 off 11 balls before being bowled by a quicker Yuzvendra Chahal delivery.

Upul Tharanga batted at less than a run-a-ball for his 17. And though Kusal himself was dismissed with Sri Lanka still requiring 48 runs, the hosts batted deep enough to haul themselves across the target. Thisara’s winning runs came in the company of Dasun Shanaka, who had more or less mis-hit his way to 15 off 18 balls. Earlier, Dhawan’s own innings had not been without good fortune. He mistimed three pull shots and saw each of those sail over ﬁne leg for six - two coming in the same Nuwan Pradeep over. On 82, he edged a full delivery from Dushmantha Chameera behind, but wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal went at the ball with one glove instead of two, and grassed the chance. After the ﬁeld restrictions were relaxed, Kusal hit only the occasional boundary, but the cushion of a fast start meant Sri Lanka’s middle order could afford a few stutters. Dinesh

Chandimal made an awkward 14 off 11 balls before being bowled by a quicker Yuzvendra Chahal delivery. Upul Tharanga batted at less than a run-a-ball for his 17. And though Kusal himself was dismissed with Sri Lanka still requiring 48 runs, the hosts batted deep enough to haul themselves across the target. Thisara’s winning runs came in the company of Dasun Shanaka, who had more or less mis-hit his way to 15 off 18 balls. Earlier, Dhawan’s own innings had not been without good fortune. He mistimed three pull shots and saw each of those sail over ﬁne leg for six - two coming in the same Nuwan Pradeep over. On 82, he edged a full delivery from Dushmantha Chameera behind, but wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal went at the ball with one glove instead of two, and grassed the chance.

went down to Australia 2-4 for their second loss in three matches, pushing them out of the race to reach the final at the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey on Tuesday. Late goals by Ramandeep Singh (52’, 53’) were only enough to avoid a whitewash against table toppers Australia. Mark Knowles (28’), Aran Zalewski (35’), Daniel Beale (38’) and Blake Govers (40’) scored for Australia. India, who have rested many senior players for the tournament, had lost their opener to Argentina 2-3 before drawing 1-1 with England. Today was a must-win match for India but getting the better of the Australians proved to be tough as always. With better ball possession in the first quarter, India created three potential chances to score but could not convert. Agolden opportunity was lost when a swift assist from Ramandeep Singh to Shilanand Lakra could not get past Australian goalkeeper Andrew Charter in the 8th minute. Though the rebound was taken by Sumit, his shot on goal went wide and India missed out on taking an early lead. Though the team’s defense remained resolute in the first quarter as it kept World Champions Australia from making forays into the circle, an infringement in the 28th minute saw the Indian team concede a penalty stroke.

India Women to Host Australia, England for T20 Tri-series MUMBAI: Australia women are

touring India in March next for a three-match ODI series as part of the ICC Women’s Championship, followed by a T20 tri-series involving the hosts and England.

Australia begin the tour with two 50-over warm-up matches against India A in Mumbai before moving to Baroda for three ODIs against India. They will then return to Mumbai for the tri-series, starting on March 22. Each side will play four matches

before the ﬁnal on April 3. Australia are currently placed third on the Women’s Championship table with four points from three games, followed by England, who have two points from three games. Australia had recently won the multi-format

Ashes, including a 2-1 series victory in the ODI series. India, meanwhile, have followed up their stellar World Cup run in England by beating South Africa at home in both the ODI and T20 series.

India was all set to play the hosts in their fourth game of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia.

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

March 09, 2018

Eight Indian Women Billionaires in Forbes List NEW DELHI: Eight Indian wom-

en have featured in this year’s Forbes list of the world’s richest people. Forbes’s 2018 World’s Billionaires List includes a total of 256 women billionaires—an all-time high. The collective net worth of the women billionaires in the list topped $1 trillion, up 20% since last year. Though most of the women at the top of the list inherited their fortunes, the number of self-made women reached 72 for the ﬁrst time, up from 56 a year ago, Forbes said. Among the Indian women billionaires on the Forbes list, Savitri Jindal and family is the richest with a fortune of $8.8 billion. She is ranked 176th globally. Biocon chief Kiran MazumdarShaw is the second richest Indian woman. She is India’s richest selfmade woman and was ranked 629th on the list with a fortune of $3.6 billion. “Biocon makes a range of

Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is the second richest Indian woman. Photo: Mint

generics to treat, among much else, autoimmune diseases, diabetes and cancer. The company is Asia’s largest insulin producer with a factory in Malaysia’s Johor region,” Forbes said. Other Indian women on the list include Smita Crishna-Godrej at 822nd place with a net worth of

$2.9 billion and Leena Tewari, who chairs the privately held USV India, at 1,020th rank with a fortune of $2.4 billion. USV specializes in diabetic and cardiovascular drugs, with a portfolio that spans biosimilar drugs, injectables and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

Meanwhile, Vinod and Anil Rai Gupta were placed at the 1,103rd place with a fortune of $2.2 billion. “Mother and son Vinod and Anil Rai Gupta draw their fortune from a 43% holding in ﬂagship Havells India,” it said. Anu Aga is the sixth richest Indian woman on the list, ranked 1,650th with a net worth of $1.4 billion. Forbes said “after a two year hiatus, Anu Aga regained her billionaire status on a jump in shares of engineering ﬁrm Thermax, in which she owns 62%”. Sheela Gautam, who set up Sheela Foam in 1971, best known for its Sleepwell brand of mattresses, was ranked at the 1,999th place with a fortune of $1.1 billion, while newcomer Madhu Kapur, who got her fortune from a 9.3% stake in BSE-listed Yes Bank Ltd too was ranked 1,999th with a net worth of $1.1 billion. – Live Mint

Wipro’s Azim Premji Quietly Gives Away More to Charity MUMBAI: Azim Premji, found-

er of India’s third largest software services company Wipro Ltd, has quietly increased his commitment to philanthropic initiatives by a third. The move marks another step in his efforts towards giving away most of his wealth to charity by merging his investment arm PremjiInvest with Azim Premji Trust, the holding entity for the endowment trusts that he set up as far back as 2001. With this, the corpus of funds under the family’s endowment trusts has gone up to some $12 billion (about Rs78,000 crore)—more than 63% of the 72-year-old Premji’s wealth as estimated by Forbes magazine. The magazine’s World’s Billionaires List ranks Premji as India’s second richest individual with a wealth of $19 billion. The move to fold his successful

Azim Premji, founder of India’s third largest software services company Wipro. Photo: AFP

investment arm with the charitable trusts his family controls underscores Premji’s intent to give away almost all his wealth towards philanthropy, according to three people directly

familiar with his plans. Established in 2001, the Azim Premji Foundation, which is now over 1,000 people strong, works in the area of primary education across

over a dozen Indian states. In 2014, Premji set up the Azim Premji Philanthropic Initiatives, which will go beyond the foundation and donate Rs500 crore annually to not-for-proﬁt organizations working to improve lives of street children and the disabled, as also governance issues.

India’s GAIL importing LNG from United States

GAIL’s ﬁrst LNG consignment on ship ‘Meridian Spirit’ was ﬂagged off at Cheniere Sabine Pass LNG terminal.

NEW DELHI: India’s 20-year deal

on import of natural gas from the US would be a “milestone” in bilateral ties and go a long way in strengthening and reinforcing trade relations between the two countries, Consul General of India Anupam Ray has said here. State-owned gas utility GAIL India has contracted 3.5 million tonnes per annum of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass liquefaction facility in Louisiana. GAIL had signed a sale and purchase agreement (SPA) with the US LNG exporter Cheniere Energy in December 2011. The SPA went into effect March 1. Under terms of the agreement, Cheniere will sell and make available for delivery to GAIL about 3.5 million tonnes a year of LNG. Amidst celebratory spirits, GAIL (India)’s first LNG consignment on ship ‘Meridian Spirit’ was flagged off by Ray yesteat Cheniere Sabine Pass LNG terminal. “It is a milestone in India-US relations as American LNG for GAIL India is flagged off from US Gulf coast. The US has recently started exporting LNG and India is a major buyer. Win-win for both nations – a market for a major US industry and a reliable energy source for India,” Ray said.

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

24 March 09, 2018 Job Posting:

Assignment Desk Intern

KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for an ASSIGNMENT DESK INTERN for the upcoming spring semester. Internships are available to currently enrolled college students in their junior or senior year pursuing careers in the television/media field and students must receive college credit for the internship. The successful applicant will be responsible for assisting the assignment desk, which includes but is not limited to making beat-checks, answering phones, monitoring police and fire radios, getting information and developing stories. The candidate should be detail-oriented and able to handle many different responsibilities at the same time. The ideal intern knows how to multi-task and set priorities. Good news judgment and strong communication skills are essential, along with strong writing skills. The candidate should have a good working knowledge with the use of social media for news gathering. Must be willing to work evenings and weekends. To be considered you must apply online at HYPERLINK “http://www.disneycareers. com” www.disneycareers.com, Job Req. #529007BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining expected graduation date, current major course of study, other internships, work experience, related clubs and organizations and extracurricular activities. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and will be required to supply written verification of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship. KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Job Posting:

News/Digital Producer Intern

KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for a paid NEWS/DIGITAL PRODUCER INTERN for the summer semester. Internships are available to undergrads currently enrolled college students in their junior or senior year pursuing careers in the television/media ﬁeld and must receive college credit for the internship. The internship program is designed to provide students with an on-site educational experience that complements their academic studies. Interns will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the daily work and operations of a major market, television station. As an intern you will gain valuable experience in all areas related to producing a television newscast – including the important relationship between our broadcast and digital platforms. Interested candidates should have a strong desire to pursue a career as a multiplatform producer and willing to receive continual feedback. Will have an opportunity to attend production meetings, research news topics, and learn how to prioritize assignments. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and supply written veriﬁcation of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship. Additionally, applicants must be able to work at least more than one day per week and the hours may vary depending on scheduling and will include some weekend and early morning and evening hours.

Job Posting:

Community Affairs Intern

KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for a paid COMMUNITY AFFAIRS INTERNSHIP for the upcoming semester. Internships are available to currently enrolled undergraduate college students in their junior or senior year pursuing careers in the television/media field and must receive college credit for the internship. The internship program is designed to provide students with an on-site educational experience that complements their academic studies. Interns will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the daily work and operations of a major market, television station. As an intern you will help in the production of community affairs shows, including scheduling of guests, help gathering and editing video, assist with community drives, forums and outreach. Each area requires significant planning, scheduling and execution. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and supply written verification of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship. Additionally, applicants must be able to work on a daily basis and the hours may vary depending on scheduling and may include some weekend and early morning and evening hours. To be considered you must apply online at HYPERLINK “http://www.disneycareers.com” www.disneycareers.com, Job Req. #529005BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining expected graduation date, current major course of study, other internships, work experience, related clubs and organizations and extracurricular activities. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and will be required to supply written verification of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship. KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Job Posting:

Programming and Production Intern

KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for a MULTIMEDIAPROGRAMMING AND PRODUCTION INTERN for the upcoming semester. Internships are available to currently enrolled college students in their junior or senior year pursuing careers in the television/ media ﬁeld and must receive college credit for the internship. The intern will assist Producers, Directors and Photojournalists with executing all aspects of the broadcast and digital story-telling process and will be expected to assist producers and directors with original content weekly for broadcast and digital platforms. Applicants must be comfortable juggling multiple projects at once and needs to be a strong researcher, writer, and communicator. Responsibilities will include working on a variety of programming, and digital projects. Opportunity to assist on producing/shooting live and taped ﬁeld stories, studio newscast production, and live special event programs.

All interested applicants must apply online at HYPERLINK “http://www.disneycareers. com” www.disneycareers.com, Job Req 529006BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining other internships, degrees earned, work experience, related clubs and organizations, current major course of study, expected graduation date and extracurricular activities.

To be considered you must apply online at HYPERLINK “http://www. disneycareers.com” www.disneycareers.com, Job Req. #529004BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining expected graduation date, current major course of study, other internships, work experience, related clubs and organizations and extracurricular activities. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and will be required to supply written veriﬁcation of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship.

KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Job Posting:

Web Producer – Part Time

KTRK-TV is looking for a part time digital producer who can do it all to be part of the team leading the charge to take our digital efforts to the next level. The ideal candidate will have three years’ experience working in major market television or print news internet operation, the ability to shoot and edit video and working experience of Photoshop. Additionally have proven social media expertise and must be ﬂexible with work schedule which may vary depending on station needs and projects. Candidate must be able to handle many projects simultaneously. Candidate must be a self-starter and have a ‘Do It Now’ mentality to excel in our fastpaced environment. We are a 24/7 news operation, so digital producers must be willing to work any day or shift, as needed. To be considered interested applicants must apply on-line at HYPERLINK “http://www.disneycareers.com” www.disneycareers.com by uploading a resume ﬁle, cover letter and list of references. Please reference Job Requisition # 529002BR. No Telephone Calls Please KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Job Posting: VICE PRESIDENT AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT/CREATIVE SERVICES KTRK-TV the ABC owned station located in Houston, TX is seeking a strategic Vice President of Audience Development/Creative Services who has experience with and understands how a media brand interacts with audiences on multiple platforms. This role is responsible for managing the station’s branding, promotions and graphics on all platforms and for producing appropriate original content relevant to each platform. This position requires knowledge of data-focused, audience-based brand development and design, content creation and social media marketing, and experience with sales promotions, community outreach programs and inﬂuencer marketing. Must be a team player, motivator and well versed in digital promotions/marketing in a fast paced, ever-changing environment. Responsibilities of the position include: � Managing the ABC13 brand on all platforms through the development and execution of innovative creative and marketing campaigns. � Leveraging research and real time data analytics to launch timely social media campaigns that grow audience engagement and emotional connection to the ABC13 brand, content and talent. � Manage department staff, budget and media buying on and for all platforms. � Growing the brand identity by developing and creating original and emotionally-impactful content. The idea candidate should have a track record of managing not only staff but also the creative expression of a media brand on and off-air including experience with brand management across digital platforms, including social media. Additionally, a strong understanding of how to use research and data analytics tools to drive audience engagement on all platforms is necessary. Demonstrated experience overseeing the production of original compelling content that integrates sponsors and advertisers is important for success. To be considered interested applicants must apply on-line at www.disneycareers.com by uploading a resume ﬁle, cover letter and list of references. Please reference Job Requisition # 531408BR

No Telephone Calls Please

KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

March 09, 2018

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

Wrap-3

March 09, 2018

INDO-AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, MARCH 09, 2018 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM