Friday, May 31, 2019 | Vol. 38, No. 17
Indo American News Published weekly from Houston, TX
www.indoamerican-news.com
$1
Special Reports Community Briefs Local Politics South Asians in the News
7457 Harwin Dr, Suite 212, Houston, TX 77036 • 713.789.NEWS (6397) • indoamericannews@yahoo.com
Modi Victory Celebrations Election victory in India touches off celebrations in Houston.
P2, P4 Honor for NY Life’s Amir Dodhiya Million Dollar Round Table Qualification for third time for NY Life Agent Amir Dodhiya.
SHANTI NIKETAN RISES ON THE BAYOU P3
MITRA / CAMDEN TRAVEL Consolidators for Turkish Airlines and Asiana Airlines
We have completed 25 successful years 12808 W Airport Blvd Suite 252 Sugar Land, TX 77478
We have special low fares on Emirates
P5
WHOLESALER FOR S MAJOR AIR CARRIER • Emirates • Gulf Airways • Kingfisher • Singapore Airlines • Jet Airways • Sahara Airlines • Indian Airlines • Eva Airlines • Asiana Airlines • Qatar Airways • PIA • Air India • Royal Jordanian • China Airlines
281-530-3000, 1-888-811-LESS Emergency Contact 281-236-9475 Please call us to get these special fares
WHOLESALE CONSOLIDATOR OF QATAR & EMIRATES AIRLINES Call us for competitive and confirmed seats on all major cities in Texas to any city in India.Call us for Summer and December seats now
Last minute fares to Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Bangalore,
Calcutta and many more...
For Summer and December fares please call us now. www.faregurus.com/ camdentravel@aol.com
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 24, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
2
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
Modi Victory in India Touches Off Celebrations Across Houston
Friends of BJP and other enthusiastic supporters of Prime Minister Modi held victory elebrations at VPSS (above), India House (left) and in the Hillcroft Shopping Plaza, which was organized by Music Masala (page 4).
By Sarita Mehta Houston: The elections in India were a highly anticipated event for the local supporters of the incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party who had canvassed for him through calls to Indian voters through specially arranged phonebanks. When the final results came in on Thursday, May 23 showing the landslide victory of the BJP and another term for Modi, many supporters saw the results live on television channels beamed into several gatherings across town, like at India House and VPSS, among others. The results touched off huge victory celebrations the following days at hastily arranged venues across town, at India House, the Gandhi District in Little India
on Hillcroft and at the VPSS and some local temples even distributed ladoos. Victory Speeches at India House By 6pm on May 23, India House Houston became a hub-bub of commotion as many local leaders and the organizers of groups aligned with the elections gathered together including from the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) and NRIsb4 Modi, I care for India, GIM2019, Mission ModiForPm, and others. India House Executive Director Vipin Kumar compered the event, noting that the celebration was on behalf of various IndoAmerican organizations adding the center’s motto “My house, Your House, Our house, India House.” Jugal Malani, the President of India House said very enthusiastically,”India is saved with the phenomenal victory of
Modi ji” and highlighted the significance of Modi’s historic return to power. Ramesh Bhutada, a noted community leader gave a speech, as did other leaders Dr. Virender Mathur, Dr. Durga Aggarwal, Sarojini Gupta and her husband Subash, Hitesh Desai and Vijay Pallod. Kokila Shah and her husband Ramesh, both of whom had been campaigning for the BJP in Gujarat were back to celebrate the victory. Congratulating Prime Minister Modi on his stunning election victory, Indo American Chamber of Greater Houston President Swapan Dhairyawan said,” We firmly believe that the country will prosper under the strong and proven leadership of Modi and indicated that this historic win will further enhance trade and economic growth between our two democra-
Fast
cies”. IACCGH, the voice of IndoAmerican business community, has been instrumental in facilitating commerce between the US and India for the last two decades. “Modiji’s victory is not merely a political victory, but it’s a direction of India towards development, growth and better governance, for everyone, not just a selective few.” Said Dr K D Upadhyaya, President of the International Hindi Association Houston Chapter and a Director of the India Culture Center. This was echoed by Parul Fernandes, also a Director of the ICC. “The victory of Modiji is the sign of the conscious and collective opinion of the Indian people for the choice of change for the progress and uplifting of India” Kiran Shah , also of the ICC Board added “This victory has change the politics of caste, religion and vote
bank to development and progress.” “The BJP’s landslide reelection in India is another win for religious nationalism. Narendra Modi is headed towards the World’s Top leadership. Women, we are in safe hands now,” said Sangeeta Dua the Women Coordinator for the OFBJP (Houston chapter). Col. Raj Bhalla, also with the ICC and formerly with India House said “It is great to have a second term of the Government led by Narendra Modi, a selfless man who feels the pain of the poor and the need of the nation. Watch a stronger India economically, militarily and at the world stage. Gitesh Desai, President of Sewa International Houston and the 2019 Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Award exclaimed “I am very exContinued on Page 3
Meet Your Business Dreams with Banking Innovations from Hanmi Bank Hanmi Business Checking Gold Package*
Efficient
Fast and convenient anytime, anywhere. Essential services that increase your efficiency. Save with package fees waived for 2 years.
Hanmi Business Checking Gold Package ● ●
Accessible
● ● ●
Business Online Banking Service Pay Bills Online Online ACH (Automated Clearing House) Origination Service Online Wire Service Package Fee Waived for 2 Years ($480)**
Visit your nearest Hanmi Bank branch now.
Convenient *
The offer expires on June 30, 2019; however, it is subject to change and may be discontinued at any time without notice. $20 of monthly maintenance fee will be charged after the first twenty four (24) months of account opening of Hanmi Business Checking Gold Package. Transaction charges are imposed separately.
**
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
3
Tagore’s Shanti Niketan is Reimagined in a Bayou City Setting By Jawahar Malhotra Houston: It is a testament to the persuasive power of his philosophy of life and harmonious coexistence that Rabindranath Tagore is immortalized the world over in one manner or the other. In the Bayou City, his presence has been felt since 1974 when the Tagore Society of Houston was formed around the nucleus of a growing Bengali community that has since made its mark through other events and structures, chief among them the Durga Bari Temple in far west Houston. Every year there is an Annual Tagore Talk gathering with prominent speakers (this year it is on June 1 at India House). In 2013, the TSH along with the PfP Industries and Techno India Group created a Tagore Grove in Ray Miller Park (on Eldridge near Briar Forest) where a 76-inch tall bronze statue of Tagore on a pedestal graces down benevolently upon you. The two people behind PfP – Ruma and Asoke Acharya DeySarkar – had formed the Tagore Center Foundation when they pursued the statue project. But their love for Tagore and his vision of international peace and harmony went much further as five years later, in May 2018 - almost coinciding with Tagore’s birthdate – Asoke bought a 14.6-acre plot of land west of Diary Ashford at Brantrock with the intention of building an ashram-like environment, modeled after Tagore’s residence Shanti Niketan near Kolkata. Both Ruma and Asoke are chemical engineers who have built very successful businesses for themselves after they settled in Houston. In 1998. Ruma founded a geotechnical services consulting firm – Ground Technology - and ran it for 20 years, eventually selling it last year, liberating herself to follow up on the personal project of
The plaque marking the ground breaking ceremony (see front page) for the Tagore Center was made by chief guests Houston District F Councilman Steve Le and Indian Consul General Dr. Anupam Ray. Below: From left, Jayanta Bandyopadhyay, Dr. Steve Le, Dr. Ruma Acharya, Dr. Asoke Deysarkar, Dr. Anupam Ray, Philamena Baird and Sanchali Basu the ceremony emcee.
the Deysarkar Family Trust Fund to build Shanti Niketan on the Bayou through the Tagore Center Foundation. Asoke founded PfP in 2003 and continues to run what is
now listed in the Top 100 companies in Houston. The vision that the power couple had is now complete, and on Saturday, May 4, they unveiled it at
a ground-breaking ceremony on a sunny morning after a heavy rainfall the night before. Nestled under a white tent under an azure sky, and in view of the golden geodesic
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
domed meditation center a block away, the Deysarkars shared their vision with close friends and a few dignitaries like District F Councilman Steve Le and Dr. Anupam Ray, the Indian Consul General. Sanchali Basu, a close friend of the Deysarkars was the emcee for the event that concluded with a box lunch from Hungry’s. The Tagore Center Foundation, will include an Early Education Development Center and an Adult Education Center. It will also include a Visual Arts Center, a Performing Arts center, an Open Air Auditorium, an Art Gallery and Fairgrounds. The site work for the roads and pad locations has been completed and the structure design is now being completed. “This Center will organize, promote and popularize educational, cultural, social and intellectual events celebrating diversity, intercultural harmony, raise awareness of the blend of Eastern and western culture,” said Ruma, adding, “the Center’s philosophy framed on Tagore’s concept of universal humanism, transcendental spirituality and a borderless world.” Asoke spoke briefly on the history of the project, Tagore’s relevance and his influence on Mahatma Gandhi. “What you see is a dream come true,” said chief guest Dr. Anupam Ray who did the ground breaking ceremony. He noted that he was due to leave this year for another posting and probably would not be able to visit the site again, and added that “This cultural monument is valuable to bind the world’s largest and oldest democracies.” Philamena Baird, past chairwoman of Houston Arts Alliance and advisory board member of TCF, said she was not familiar with Tagore before but had read up on him and was awestruck how accomplished he was. “He represented humanity and dreamed of universal humanity,” she said
4
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
Enthusiastic Modi Victory Celebrations through the Week in Houston Continued from Page 2
excited about people who have voted for Modiji to continue at the helm of affairs for its progress at home and success in the fast changing world. There is no leader better than Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji with vision and mission to lead India in the 21st century.” Shobendu Prabhakar a Jones Scholar from Rice University stated “The reason why Indian people elected Shri Modi Again in 2019 Indian Lok Sabha election include- his nation first approach, his humility, his good understanding of common people and genuine efforts to solve their problems, his long term vision for India, and the hope that he raised among Indian people”. Dancing in the Streets of Little India The Overseas Friends of BJP hosted the Modi Victory Party last Thursday evening, May 23 from 8 to10pm, just hours after the results were announced in Indian. On the day of, Masala Radio blasted an invitation for the entire town to come to the Mahatma Gandhi District to celebrate the victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Those present from The OFBJP headed by Achalesh Amar included Raghuveer, Madhu Adi, Umang Mehta, Sangeeta Dua and many other volunteers coming together
Modi supporters gathered in the Hillcroft Shopping Plaza for the Music Masala victory celebration.
with last minute permission from Harry Sahni to use his Hilcroft Plaza for the parking lot party. This Celebration was attended by over 1500 in the heart of Mahatma Gandhi District. Sudha Singh said, “This is such a positive election result for the progress of India, I had to come out and celebrate! The food was so delicious!” The Plaza’s Biryani Factory generously served complimentary Biryanis, while Chowpatty Chaat served mouth-watering bhel puri and pani puri right outside his shop! Tru India served over 2000 dosas to a never-ending line
of revelers, and Bollywood Chaat served Modi chai and pakoras. Masala Radio brought energy and excitement with their Radio Jockeys leading shouts of “NAMO AGAIN!” “JAI HIND!” “Har MODI, Ghar MODI!” with electronic lights and sounds by DJ Nish. People ate, sang danced, and even did a little Garba (a Gujarati folk dance relating to Modi’s humble Gujarati background).” Umang Mehta who helped give away 1000 NAMO AGAIN tshirts, said “I am so happy that so many people came out on one day’s notice! Only Masala Radio could draw such a large partiotic
IMMIGRATION ATT ORNEYS
Willy, Nanayakkara & Associates
INTEGRITY
ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW ATTORNEYS
CHIRANJAYA “ CHIRO” NANAYAKKARA
JAMES W. PARKER
Managing Attorney
Associate Attorney
turnout in such a short time!” Blessings for the Victory at the VPSS Haveli on Sunday Over 350 people came to the VPSS Haveli for the Modi Victory celebration coordinated by Achalesh Amar, Madhukar Adi, Raghuveer Reddy and Umang Mehta on Sunday evening, May 26. Adi and Megha Raja emceed the celebrations which started with Vandemataram and lamp lighting by distinguished guests, The core team of volunteers included Gitesh Desai, Diyvendu Singh, Nilesh Sahi, Sonal Singh, Shalini Kapoor, Kinjal Raja, Gopal Agarwal, Neeta Chada, Um-
ang Mehta, Sangeeta Dua, Anant Samdani, Sharad Amin, Veena Ambardar and Rajesh Danyak. Chief guests at the event were Linda Howell, Fort Bend Republican party chairman; Andy Meyers, Fort Bend County Commissioner; Avnish Kumar Singh, VP BJP Avadh Region, Uttar Pradesh; Dr. Bapu Reddy BJP MP contestant, Nizamabad; Craig Tuttle of Congressman Pete Olson’s office; and other distinguished leaders from various supporting organizations in Houston Amar gave the full global campaign report including callathons from 5 continents, 20 countries and 60 cities. He also shared how they were able to influence voters on ground in key constituencies. Adi shared how the campaign efforts that include callathons, social media work, short movies were executed, and sincerely appreciated the volunteers for sacrificing their personal time for a greater cause to ensure being part of India’s transformation journey under the leadership of Modi. “Unexplored Ayodhya”, a short movie made by a few Houstonians was released and Avnish shared few campaign reports from UP Avadh region A Vote of Thanks was given by Sahi on behalf of Houston OFBJP to all sponsors, supporters, VPSS management, and other distinguished leaders.
DIGNITY
COMPETENCE
SPECIAL ADVISORS
STEPHANIE STUBBE Associate Attorney
THOMAS P. FISCHER
Former District Director of Immigration
GEORGE R. WILLY
THOMAS R. HUTSON Former Consul General
OF COUNSEL
ROGER PIPER
Former District Director of Immigration
JIMMIE BENTON
Former Immigration Judge
Principal Attorney
Deportation
Employment Based
Naturalization
Family Based
Investment Visas
EB1 / EB2 / EB5
Professional Visas
Skilled Worker Visas
We’ve Moved To
14141 Southwest Fwy, Suite 110 Sugar Land, TX 77478
GRWPC.COM
Canadian Immigration
Masala Radio @ AM 1110 Every Thursday: 4:00 to 4:30 pm
......
30 MIN FREE CONSULTATION
Geetanjali Radio @ AM 1320 2nd and 3rd Saturday: 3:00 to 3:30 pm
Andhra Mirchi @ AM 1050 Every 2nd Saturday: 1:00 to 1:30 pm
•Over 30 years of practice in Immigration Law. •Member of the American Immigration Lawyer’s Association since 1989. •Providing representation for Canadian Immigration through our associates in Canada. •Over 16 Languages spoken by the Firm’s staff.
HOUSTON • ATLANTA • CANADA • MUMBAI - INDIA
HOUSTON: EVERY THURSDAY | (281) 265-2522 | (888) 529-5990 | IMMIGRATION@GRWPC.COM ATLANTA: EVERY 1ST & 3RD MONDAY | (404) 937-6868 | (888) 529-5990 | ATLANTAIMMIGRATION@GRWPC.COM Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
PAULINE APPELBAUM
Former Immigration Regional Counsel USCIS
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
Amir Dodhiya Qualifies for $1 Million New York Life Round Table for 3rd Time is recognized for demonstrating exceptional professional knowledge, client service, ethical conduct and production. Founded in 1927, the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), The Premier Association of Financial Professionals, is an international, independent association of the world’s leading life insurance and financial services professionals. MDRT members demonstrate exceptional professional knowledge, strict ethical conduct and outstanding client service. MDRT membership is recognized internationally as the standard of sales excellence in the life insurance and financial services business
Houston: Outstanding client service, ethics and professionalism have elevated Amiralli (Amir) Dodhiya of the Houston General Office of New York Life to qualify for the exclusive “Court of the Table” of the Million Dollar Round Table — The Premier Association of Financial Professionals® In addition to his role as a New York Life agent since 2008. Agent Dodhiya is a 10-year MDRT member and a 3rd-time Court of the Table qualifier. Achieving Court of the Table status places Mr Dodhiya among the top professionals in the global life insurance and financial services industry. He
Pradeep Sulhan, P.C.
Certified Public Accountant 14340 Torrey Chase Blvd. | Suite 110 | Houston, Texas 77014 (281) 583-2993 | (281) 580-8700 | Fax(281) 580-7550 www.sulhancpa.com | pradeep@sulhancpa.com
Over 25 years experience
Gujarati Sahitya Sarita’s ‘Juimela’ Festival Sugar Land: On 27th May, the 197th meeting of GSS (Gujarati Sahitya Sarita) was held and celebrated in the name of ‘Juimela’ at Austin Parkway, Sugarland’s conference center. The GSS, Houston team had invited a main guest speaker Dr. Usha Upadhyay, who is a scholar of Gujarati language having Ph.D. degree, earned many awards for her work and also is a great poet and professor at Gujarat Vidyapith in Ahmedabad. Houston’s poet Devika Dhruva was an Emcee of the function. In the beginning, Bhavna Desai sang prayer of Saraswati. The president of GSS, Fateh ali Chatur, welcomed the guest, Vice President Shaila Munshaw gave a detailed introduction of Dr.Usha Upadhyay and an Emcee Devika Dhruva invited the main speaker to the forum for her speech. Dr. Ushaben presented interesting information about the background of the name ‘Juimela”, encouragement and inspirations of women’s creations, her deep research work of various books about female writers, and provided the complete information of her recently published ‘America Resident Gujarati Literature and Mother Tongue’. Book. At the same time, she gave a good explanation to the excellent verses of process of poetry, its cli-
President Fateh Ali, with Executive Members of GSS & Guest of Honor Dr. Usha Upadhyaya, Devika Dhruv, Shaila Munshaw and Avani Mehta.
max and various forms of poems etc... While referring to Rabindranath Tagore, Khalil Gibran, Ramesh Parekh, Rajendra Shah, the audience of literature was enjoying her expressions and a style of presentation. The second part of this event was for local poets’ presentation. Devika Dhruva, Pravina Kadakia, Chiman Patel, Shaila Munshaw, Dr.Kamalesha Lulla and Fateh ali had presented their poetries in Gujarati in front of everyone. Their theme was various like current events, Technology, peace on earth, philosophical and light mode of thoughts etc.. GSS is rich for these activities since last 19 years. They were warmly welcomed by audience. The third part was again by Dr.Ushabahen’s poetry. She recited her many poems of Geet, Gazal
R. SRINIVASAN AND COMPANY
15 Years of Solid and Trusted Experience Book Keeping & Tax Services Income Statements & Balance Sheets Filing of all individual Business Returns 1040, 1120, 1120S, 1065 Free Consultation
and also of prose version of feelings. Some of the lines of her gujarati poems got non-stop clapping and standing ovation also. The meaning of the lines (translated) were like this: “the wounds and pain remain with all but it may have special attachment with me as never gone away!! And other one is this: “It may be a rule of world, if you are gold, they let you burn more!! “ At the end, the secretory of the institution, Avani Mehta had given vote of thanks and Sahitya Sarita committee awarded a letter of honor to Dr.Usha Upadhyay, a book of an overview of the organization’s history and also Houston’s Fort bend County Judge Proclamation letter was also awarded. Salute to the GSS committee, all volunteers, sponsor Kirit Bhkta and of course audience.
5
For Advertising in Indo-American News call:
713-789-6397
BOOK KEEPING | PAYROLL | INCOME TAX Incorporations: C and S Corporations, LLC’s Sales Tax and Franchise Tax Returns Income Tax and Sales Tax Representation Payroll and Payroll Tax Returns
Cell: 832-877-9625 | Fax: 713-977-2221 | Email: acct77036@yahoo.com | web: www.asu2020.com 6666 Harwin Dr, Suite 365, Houston, TX 77036 Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
6
SOUTH ASIA
May 31, 2019 M/WBE Subcontrator Opportunity
Eduthings, LLC is bidding on RFP# 19-04-23, Career and Technical Education for the Houston Independent School District.
8,000 Guests @ Modi’s Swearing-in: Biggest Ever at Rashtrapati Bhavan
We are looking for possible M/WBE subcontractors to provide the following products or services: 1. Software Training/Implementation 2. Software Development If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact angela@eduthings.com by May 31, 2019
President Ram Nath Kovind will host a private dinner for the leaders from Bimstec countries.
New Delhi: Nearly 8,000 guests will attend the swearing-in of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday, making it the biggestever event held in the historic premises. While the guests attending the event will be treated to high tea, President Ram Nath Kovind will host a private dinner for the leaders from Bimstec countries as well as Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov and Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth - who have all confirmed their presence. “It will be the biggest-ever event at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. 8,000 people are coming,” Ashok Malik, Press Secretary to the President, told IANS. The size of the gathering is seen as a reflection of the massive mandate received by Modi government in the Lok Sabha elections. Both the BJP and NDA have improved their tally compared to 2014. The swearing-in will be held in the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the
same venue as in 2014. The event then was attended by about 5,000 guests. The high tea will have snacks, including samosas, and paneer items apart from sweets, while at the President’s dinner, the visiting foreign dignitaries will be treated to “Dal Raisina” - a special delicacy of the Rashtrapati Bhavan that takes 48 hours to cook among other delicacies. The Prime Minister will also attend the dinner, along with some officials. With the swearing-in scheduled for 7 p.m., dinner will be light as it will be served a little late in the evening. The dinner will have both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options and include soup, fish, chicken, vegetables and the “Dal Raisina” - a variant of popular ‘maa ki dal’. “It is a speciality of our kitchen. Its special recipe was developed here in Rashtrapati Bhavan. It takes 48 hours to prepare. The process of preparing it started on May 28 and it will be ready by tomorrow (Thursday),” Malik said.
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
SOU
COMMUNITY
7
May 31, 2019
Multi-talented Bud Patel Brings “Sai-Leela” Have you planned for your future?
Houston: Bud Patel, renowned film Producer and lead actor of “A Curry on an American Plate” is coming with live Broadway-Style Stage Show an epic Hindi Drama based on the life of Shirdi Ke Sai Baba “SAI-LEELA“ the stage play. Bud, also known as Bhadresh Patel, a person of versatile personality, he is an Actor, Writer, & Director and have acted in over 150 Dramas & Short Film in Hindi, English, Gujarati, Marathi, and Bengali. He has done various stage shows in Mumbai, Houston, and Toronto Canada. Come and watch the lavish production with magical special effects. All our actors are very hard working, talented and professional. More than 40 actors playing various role, some of them are playing double & triple roles. With Baba’s blessing we also have team of best sound engineer, best musicians, best choreographer, and best light director. We have hired Set Designer to create sets, the costumes and properties has been imported from India. The show is 2:45 hours with interval. We will have food booth on the day of event. Buy
UTH ASIA
People don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan
Jesal Patel ARPC, CLTC, LUTCF Financial Adviser*: Eagle Strategies LLC Life Member MDRT Ph: 281-221-5061/713-499-7670 Fax: 832-201-5394 Website: www.jesalzpatel.com
Multi-talented actor Bud Patel
your tickets now and enjoy the most spectacular show ever on the life of Shirdi Ke Sai-Baba. Tickets are available at humtumdesi.com or call Bud Patel @713-5843826 for group discount. Sai-Baba message is very simple Shraddha-Saburi (Faith-Patience) and complete devotion to God and Guru. I sincerely bow to Sai-Baba who has blessed me with this glorious opportunity of translating his work into stage play. I am ever indebted to his mercy towards us and our cast & crew.
*Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, A Registered Investment Adviser. Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC-Member FINRA/ SIPC, A Licensed insurance Agency. Agent with New York Life Insurance Company. 3200 Southwest Freeway, Suite 1900, Houston, TX 77027 (713) 961-4545 California Insurance License # 0F53803 smru#1711530
ॐ साई राम - साई लीला - ह दिं ी नाटक SHIRDI SAI JALARAM MANDIR (Sugar Land) SANATAN SHIV SHAKTI MANDIR (Hillcroft/Harwin) In association with Bud Patel (Actor/Director) Proudly Present Hindi Stage Play on the life of Sai Baba
FRIDAY. JUNE 7TH 2019 at 8:00 PM Old Stafford Center – 1415 Constitution Ave, Stafford. TX 77477
SAI-LEELA TICKETS AVAILABLE AT
Stage Play Tickets $10 - $20 - $30 - $40 - $50 www.humtumdesi.com/events/tickets/houston/sai-leela
SUDHIR MATHURIA Health Life 360 (832) 806-1000
Manoranjan, Inc UMANG MEHTA Geetanjali Radio Houston Masala Radio Houston Indo American News
Ajit Patel & Nisha Mirani
Wallis Bank Rajiv Bhavsar (281) 217-7330
Sponsorship & Group Tickets Call
(713) 977-9803 Vinod Shah (832) 563-0919
Air Conditioning & Heating Ajit Patel (713) 557-2536
Bachcha Tiwari (281) 617-8887
B.K. Dry Cleaning Supply Barry Kalyanji (713) 870-4994
BUD PATEL @ 713-584-3826
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
8
ENTERTAINMENT
May 31, 2019
‘India’s Most Wanted’: A Placid Spy Thriller Modi: Deeply Reverential Biopic By Shubhra Gupta Cast: Arjun Kapoor, Rajesh Sharma, Aasif Khan, Prashanth Alexander Director: Raj Kumar Gupta Rating: Two stars Based on the true story of the painstaking search-andcapture of a dreaded terrorist, India’s Most Wanted has what it takes for a solid spy thriller : a ‘fidayeen’ bomber bent upon destroying India, the coming together of a team under a strong leader, the bureaucratic reluctance to go out on a limb for brave soldiers even if it means getting rid of a dreaded enemy, and the senior official in between these two forces who plays go-between. The film also has the relatively novel backdrop of Nepal, where the terrorist is meant to be hiding out. New scenery usually means instant freshness. But the overall result is more a placid seen-it-before run-around than the edge-of-the-seat nail biter that it promises to be. Scenes and dialogues being repeated in a film like this should be a strict no-no. Prabhat (Kapoor) is a do-or-die member of the anti-terrorist squad: when it comes to national secu-
rity, a muscular narrative hugely popular these days, he will stop at nothing, whether it is urging his rag-tag team to offer personal and financial sacrifices as true ‘deshbhakts’, or going against orders. An initial attempt made at humanising these operatives, usually not even acknowledged by the very same people who send them out to dangerous situations, is nice: they have homes and families, moth-
ers and wives, though you do wish that these ‘bhabhijis’ wouldn’t be presented as such stereotypes, even if they come on for just a scene or two in this almost exclusively masculine preserve. Men who bravely go after ‘India’s most wanted’ are petrified of their women, or the prospect of one, see? The pace is lifted by the incessant background music: often, there’s more excitement in the music than in the action, which keeps stuttering. The director’s love for slomos and close-ups shows up again, and slows things down. Why not keep it all chop-chop? And though Kapoor comes up with another earnest performance, you wish he had more than one note to play with. If he were just one of the guys, you wouldn’t mind so much, but because he is the hero, the spotlight is on him. Good thing there’s no romantic thread created just for him, though. Bollywood needs to figure this one out: how do you create a true level-playing ensemble when the movie is being fronted by a hero? -- Indian Express
ACHIEVE YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS Rajiv B. Bhavsar Aziz A. Rahim SVP Commercial Lending Officer SVP Commercial Lending Officer (281) 217-7330 (281) 224-2523
Zafar Khan AVP Business Development (713) 715-9983
713.580.9900 · 844.972.4636 · www.wallisbank.com
In keeping with its tone and tenor, the film is completely reverential towards its subject, projecting him as noble and sacrificial and wise beyond his years even when very young.
By Shubhra Gupta Cast: Vivek Oberoi, Manoj Joshi, Prashant Narayanan, Anjan Srivastav, Darshan Kumar, Zarina Wahab, Rajendra Gupta, Boman Irani Director: Omung Kumar Rating: Two stars Sometimes the arrival of a film in theaters becomes a marker. The PM Narendra Modi biopic, called, what else, ‘PM Narendra Modi’, comes out the day the BJP celebrates its historic mandate to rule India for a second consecutive term. The Vivek Oberoi starrer wasn’t allowed to be released during the elections, but no matter, it’s here now, and doubtless, the faithful will flock to it, bathed in joy and delirium, chanting, along with film, Modi, Modiiiiii, Modi, Modiiiiii. The film makes sure that it is, in every moment, properly in awe of its subject, man and boy, as it tracks Narendra Damadordas Modi’s astonishing trajectory from a ‘chai-wala’s (Gupta) son, to a ‘pracharak’ of the RSS, to his rise and rise, in Gujarat, and then on the national stage, ending with his taking the oath in 2014. Those who have accepted the rise of Narendra Modi will watch the film as a reaffirmation of their faith. And who cares for the disbelievers, as they collect their jaws from the floor as the film goes from one incident to another: that as a young man, Modi walked out of a potential marital alliance and went to the Himalayas to do
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
‘tapasya’; that the post-Godhra riots couldn’t be controlled because the ‘neighbouring states’ didn’t ‘help’; that messiah Modi was a ‘secular’ helper during the earthquake relief operations; and so on and on. After a point you stop counting. The film is not a mere bio-pic, it is a full-fledged, unabashed, unapologetic hagiography. What else could it be? It takes its cautionary note (which unspools in the opening credits) about taking creative liberties very seriously indeed. Those who’ve lived through the times that ‘Jai’ Modi was growing up, and creating a space for himself in the political firmament, with the help of his ‘Veeru’, Amit Shah (Joshi; this ‘Jai-Veeru’ coupling comes up as a special mention in the film) may wonder if there is an alternative universe that he inhabits. In keeping with its tone and tenor, the film is completely reverential towards its subject, projecting him as noble and sacrificial and wise beyond his years even when very young, whose love for his own ‘ba’ (Wahab) is never more than the love he has for Bharat Mata. The Opposition is shown as weak and venal (Manmohan Singh doesn’t have a single speaking moment, only keeping ‘maun’); a corrupt businessman (Narayanan) is shown to be in cahoots with a complicit journalist (Kumar) as they plot Modi’s downfall; Sonia and Rahul Gandhi and their cohorts come off as ineffective handwringers.-- Indian Express
COMMENTARY The Weight of Words
In his speech in Central Hall in Parliament on Saturday, the first after being elected leader of the BJPled NDA, Prime Minister Narendra Modi struck a heartening note of magnanimity. Among other things, he said the new government would make efforts to earn the trust of minorities, and of those who disagree (with the BJP-NDA). He urged the newly elected MPs to puncture the “myth” or illusion of fear among the country’s minorities: “The way the poor have been cheated, the minorities have been deceived the same way…”. He spoke of owning even those who express strong opposition to the BJP, “jo hamara ghor virodh karte hain, woh bhi hamare hain”. These are statements of inclusive intent. But it will take more for them to reassure. PM Modi’s words will need to be heeded by his own partymen and Sangh Parivar footsoldiers, who will need to acknowledge both what the PM said and didn’t say: Minority fears and insecurities are real, they are no illusion or myth. Admittedly, they are a grave, throbbing left-over from the deceptions and abdications of earlier governments that called themselves secular. But, in the last five years, they have been made up of, and stoked by, a majoritarianism unleashed and emboldened by the NDAvictory of 2014. This “us versus them” strain, deepened by the top BJP leadership’s silences and complicities, was also mirrored in its 2019 campaign: Be it party president Amit Shah calling (the mostly Muslim) Bangladeshi immigrants “termites”, or PM Modi himself referring to Rahul Gandhi’s decision to contest from Wayanad in Kerala as an escape to a
minority (as opposed to a majority dominated) constituency, or the BJP’s choice, endorsed by its top two leaders, of Sadhvi Pragya Thakur as the candidate from Bhopal. It may well be that campaigning is different from governing in the second term. It could be that the overwhelming mandate of 2019 — ironically, facilitated by this kind of rhetoric— makes room for generosity and inclusiveness of the kind that could be heard in the PM’s first speech to his MPs. But it will need constant mindfulness from the top BJP leadership. It will have to own the responsibility to curb the party’s worst instincts vis a vis minorities and those who disagree with it. The next time a BJP MP or MLA resorts to hate speech, or justifies mob violence, the next time the party uses its mandate as a weapon to disrespect the political opponent or subdue the autonomous institution, they will need to be told that there are penalties to pay. Going ahead, at the very least, there must be no impunity for flouting the PM’s words on the Saturday after he won a famous mandate. -- Indian Express
Indo American News Founder: Dr. K.L. Sindwani Publisher: Jawahar Malhotra Editor: Pramod Kulkarni Advertising Administrator: Sarita Mehta Correspondent: Sanchali Basu ®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertising and articles is 4 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 7457 Harwin Drive, Suite 212, Houston, Texas 77036. Tel & fax: 713-789-6397 email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: www. indoamerican-news.com
May 31, 2019
9
ICC World Cup: Is It Only a Game? Five years ago, the Meerut Police booked some students for sedition for cheering Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi in an Asia Cup match. The UP government later dropped the charges. Yet that initial knee-jerk reaction said something about the times we live in. Things haven’t changed, as we await yet another India-Pakistan encounter, this time at the World Cup. George Orwell wrote about the “lunatic habit of identifying with larger power units, and seeing everything in terms of competitive prestige”. Thus victory is seen as vindication of a political system, economic status, literary heritage and anything else politicians and fans can think up along the lines of “mine is bigger (and better) than yours”. This manner of arriving at a country’s self-worth through the success of its sportsmen is not unique, but is at its perverse best here. We need to be prepared for the lunacy — win or lose — on June 16, when the two teams meet in the World Cup. Chants of patriotism and nationalism are one thing, but to act as if the result of a cricket match reflected these is both silly and dangerous. “After all, it’s only a game,” is how the captains like to characterise their encounter. Virat Kohli said so in England recently; his counterpart Sarfaraz Ahmed endorsed that view. But it’s not the players who are responsible for the baggage, for the belief that somehow a loss diminishes a whole nation and everything it stands for. There are historical, psychological, even geographical reasons for this. Supporters sometimes go the other extreme, stitching the national flags together to show unity and singleness of purpose, but this usually happens on Test tours, not so much in white ball cricket. To be at a venue — even a neutral one — during a match is to be enveloped by a fervour that is al-
most religious in its intensity. Loss to the other has led to players having their effigies burnt, homes stoned, families threatened, cars vandalised, and given rise to talk about match-fixing. The pressure on the players can only be imagined. “The nation would brook no failure,” wrote Sachin Tendulkar of the 2003 match, “It did not matter to them (fans) what happened in the rest of the tournament as long as we beat Pakistan.” He went on to add, in his autobiography, “This is why I played cricket, to be out in the middle for my team, on the world’s biggest stage, against India’s arch rivals.” So much for it being “only a game.” This is a player buying into the prevailing narrative, just as fans and politicians and the media all do. It is the commercially sensible reaction, after all; it sells books, gives politicians air time and attracts advertising. The chest-thumping and flag-waving fans unwittingly become pawns in a larger game, contributing to the narrative by bringing their own insecurities into play, and looking for validation. Two sub-plots have attached themselves to the World Cup since 1992: South Africa’s apparent tendency to choke (unfair but convenient), and India’s unbeaten record (6-0) against Pakistan. Neither seems logical or inevitable, and it is reasonable to assume that the anomaly will be resolved sooner or later, perhaps at this year’s World
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
Cup even. Those looking for patterns in the two cases have been foiled by the absence of any; the best that pundits can do is declare that since it has happened before, it is likely to happen again. But that’s not how sport works. Thirty-three years ago in Sharjah, Javed Miandad hit the most famous six in an India-Pakistan OneDay International. It came off the last ball of the match, Pakistan won, and India were so traumatised they managed to win only four matches against them in the next ten years, while losing 20. In fact, over the next 17 years till the 2003 World Cup, India had only 29 wins to Pakistan’s 52. And then came another six — this time by Tendulkar off a Shoaib Akhtar 150kmph express. That seemed to swing the advantage India’s way. The record is 24-21 in their favour since. With bilateral series ruled out, and multi-nation tournaments the only platforms for an India-Pakistan match, the intensity has only increased in recent years. Drumbeating by politicians on either side has contributed to the noise too. No one has been able to explain, though, the lopsided results over 27 years. India have batted first always, except in 2003 when they won by six wickets. Otherwise the margins of victory by runs have been 43, 39, 47, 29 and 76. Perhaps there is no single reason for this, not even, as one writer has suggested, Pakistan’s inferiority complex (sometimes writers too see patriotism in criticising the other). There might have been a brief period when the teams played each other regularly when it was only a game. Now the anticipation is greater, and the baggage heavier; a loss might be more upsetting than before. The players are aware of this but in sport you cannot win to order. That is its charm.-- The Hindu
10
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
Akshaya Tritiya: Countdown for Jagannatha Ratha Jatra Begins Houston: Akshaya Tritiya which literally means the “never diminishing and eternal third day” falls on the third day of the bright phase of the “Baisakha” month. This day is considered very auspicious and any new venture started on this day is believed to be blessed with ‘akshaya’ – imperishable good fortune. Across India and Indian diaspora, people celebrate this day by starting new ventures, investing in movable and immovable property. In many parts of India, gold sales see a certain spike, as traditionally gold has been the safest investment, and investing in gold on Akshaya Tritiya implies like any other venture, this investment will also multiply. Akshaya Tritiya is also known as Akha Teej, Akshaya Trutiya, Akhitrutiya. Different communities mark this auspicious day in myriad different ways. For Jains this day marks Risabhadeva’s culmination of a yearlong penance and ascetic life. Hindus have many legends to corroborate the sanctity of this special day, one of them being River Ganga appeared on earth on this very day. For Odias, the people of the eastern state of Odisha, Akshaya Tritiya has a very distinct significance. On the day of Akshaya Tritiya, Odias begin the countdown for the world-famous, centuries old annual Ratha-Jatra – the chariot festival of the beloved
India House Houston
Chandana Jatra, Puri, Odisha, India.
deities, Balabhadra, Subhadra and Jagannatha. Odias mark this auspicious day with the commencement of construction of the three majestic wooden Ratha – chariots, the Taladhwaja, Dwarapadalana and Nandighosa, one each for the three deities. Ratha-Jatra typically occurs in the month of July, but the preparation and the elaborate arrangement starts on the day of Akshaya Tritiya, almost three months prior. The first event in the series is the Chandana Jatra which is also celebrated on Akshaya Tritiya. Apart from Ratha-Jatra, Akshaya Tritiya also ushers the cropping season in most of Odisha, farmers choose this blessed day to start the
agricultural venture just before the onset of the monsoon season. This year Puri, which is Shri Jagannatha’s hometown was battered by a category-4 cyclonic storm “Fani” on May 2nd. The storm caused extensive damage to the holy town as well as a large swathe of coastal Odisha including Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. With basic amenities like food, shelter, water and electricity still not normalized, Odisha and Odias are looking at tough times ahead. Even in the face of such dire conditions, people marked the pious day of Akshaya Tritiya in Puri as well as across the world, albeit in a subdued manner. The resilience of people of Puri is remarkable,
as just few days after the ravaging cyclonic storm made landfall, keeping up with the centuries old tradition, the construction of the majestic chariots – Ratha was duly commenced undeterred. We in the Houston Odia community, like our brethren world-wide have geared up for the forthcoming Ratha-Jatra drawing inspiration from the resilience shown by people back home in Odisha. Akshaya Tritiya was celebrated by the resident Houston Odia community in a unique Odia way. Keeping in mind the inclement weather condition the community celebrated this pious day with prayers and offerings to Shri Jagannatha, in the heart of Houston. The Hous-
Summer CampS HINDI
kl j
CAMP 1: June 10 to June 28 CAMP 2: July 8 to July 26 Mon to Fri 10:00 am to 1:00 pm $150 Per Camp or $60 Per Week
CRAFT & CROCHET CAMP 1: June 10 to June 28 CAMP 2: July 8 to July 26
A group photo of the Organizing Committee of Houston Iftar with
Mon to Fri 10:00 am to 12:30 pm $150 Per Camp or $60 Per Week
For Information and Registration: www.indiahouseinc.org/programs-services/summercamps 713-929-1900 | vipin@indiahouseinc.org | 8888 West Bellfort Ave., Houston, TX 77031 Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
ton Odia community led by Orissa Culture Center (OCC) in collaboration with Shri Sitaram Foundation will celebrate Houston’s twelfth Jagannatha Ratha-Jatra on 6th July, 2019 at the India House, 8888 W Bellfort Blvd.. Jagannatha Ratha-Jatra being a celebration of universal brotherhood and human spirit, will showcase various diverse cultural programs. For the current year in the cultural segment named as “Samskriti-O-Sangam” there will be an inter-cultural program to include dance and musical presentations by different art schools. The notable ones are Mexican Mariachi Musical Band, Odissi dance by students of Kalangan School Of Odissi, Odissi dance by the students of Odissi Academy, Bharat Natyam/Kuchipudi by the students of Anjali School of Dance, Punjabi Bhangra Style Folk dance, Cajun Style North American Dance, Sufi-Qawwali by the Riyaaz Qawwali of Houston, Chinese Dance by the Asian American Dance Academy and Shri Jagannatha Bhajans by the members of the Odia Community. As has been the case for more than a decade, we eagerly look forward to the synergy of people from all walks of life as we recreate the high-octane devotional spirit in our own humble way in Houston, Texas.
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
Flautist Godkhindi Performs in DC Washington DC: Renowned Indian flautist Pravin Godkhindi performed a Hindustani music concert at IndiaHouse yesterday to a select audience consisting of representatives of the US Government, Congress, media, art & culture and Indian community. In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Harsh
V Shringla referred to outreach initiatives of the Embassy, including the commemoration of MahatmaGandhi’s150th Birth Anniversary; 550th Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev; International Day of Yoga 2019; and VegFest.
Pravin Godkhindi is a renowned Indian Classical Hindustani flute (Bansuri) player, who has mastered both the styles of Tantrakari and Gayaki style of playing on the Flute. He is a Top Ranking Artiste in Hindustani Bansuri for Akashvani (AIR).
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
11
12
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
Property Management Employment Hiring individuals, with or without experience, who are interested in upper management positions in the industry of Apartment Complexes. Our company trains all of employees, and needs people seeking full-time positions (40 hours a week). Individuals must have computer skills in: Microsoft Excel & Word and typing skills. Please contact our office at 832-280-9742 Monday- Friday, 9 am - 5 pm to set up an interview. Come and join our family
“IT HAPPENS ONLY IN INDIA”
Stay tuned every Sunday,
HIREN JOSHI
to from 2.30pm to 3.30pm
832-646-2116
hjoshi7@hotmail.com
www.shobajoshi.com
SHOBA JOSHI OWNER, PROMOTER AND HOST OF
Geetanjali Radio AM 1320 Sat & Sun 2-5 PM For your business ads
Cell: 832-878-4338 Tel: 713-545-4749 shobajoshi999@gmail.com
ER Nurse and Executive Naushad Kermally Seeks SL City Council Position in a Runoff By Pooja Salhotra Sugar Land: Since settling in Sugar Land 23 years ago, Naushad Kermally has done everything he could to learn about the community, from graduating from the Sugar Land 101 program, to serving on the city’s Ethics Review Board. All the while, he’s been working a full-time as the Executive Vice President of a mobile technology company and raising three kids. Now, he hopes to serve the city as councilman for District 2. “I’ve done a lot of things to help set myself up for today,” Kermally said. “I love to serve. This is a non-paid position, there’s no glory in it. But I want to be able to be the ear for the citizen and then be the mouth for them in City Hall.” Kermally began his career as a Trauma and Critical Care nurse at Ben Taub Hospital, and he transitioned to Sugar Land’s Methodist Hospital in 1997. Kermally maintains his nurse license today even though he now works in the technology sector. Kermally first announced his candidacy for City Council in February, and he faced off against candidates Nabila Mansoor and David Gomet for the position earlier this month. Kermally led the polls, taking 39.16% of the
I can help with your 401(k) options
4,173 ballots cast. Mansoor came in close behind with 34.22% of the votes. Because no candidate received a majority of votes, Kermally and Mansoor face-off again in a runoff, with early voting starting next week and election day happening on Saturday, June 8. Typically, runoff elections draw fewer voters than the first round of elections. With this in mind, Kermally and Mansoor will need to focus on getting voters out the second time around. Kermally said he was pleased with turnout in the first round — about 22 percent of the district came out to vote — and he and his campaign team are spending the days leading up to the runoff by continuing to knock on doors and form new relationships. “I have a great team of friends and volunteers who are out and about all day,” he said. “My wife and kids help too. It’s non-stop.”
During his campaign, Kermally has emphasized public safety as a primary focus, committing to help ensure that crime rates continue to decrease in the city. “We have a beautiful city,” he said. “When I go door to door and I listen to people, they just want to make sure we have a safe community. Year over year we have less crime happening, so we are doing well. I want to make sure the citizens continue to feel safe.” Kermally’s campaign itself dealt with some criminal activity, when, for several days in a row, more than 50 yard signs installed in the Telfair neighborhood were mysteriously stolen. Kermally said the stealing finally ended after he posted about the issue on social media, and media outlets reached out to him in order to run a story. “We’ve had lots of little challenges, but we’ve moved on from there,” he said.
Jaykay Wealth Advisors, Inc Anasuya Kabad, CFP® 6200 Savoy Drive Suite 300 Houston, TX 77036 (713) 780-4575 P hone Anasuya@advisorusa.c om www.advisorusa.c om
Changing jobs? What should you do with the 401(k) money you’ve accumulated? You may have up to four options: leave the money where it is, roll it over to your employer’s new plan, roll it into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or cash it out. I can help you explore these choices, and guide you through the necessary steps.
Call me today for information, or to schedule a consultation.
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Jaykay Wealth Advisors, Inc, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.
MKT-06054-0717 Tracking #1-654264 (Exp. 05/19) Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
13
Annual Musical Performance with Kalabharati School of Arts and Music
By Deepshikha Karna Houstonians witnessed a musicfilled day with Kalabharati School of Arts and Music aka Kalabharati on the auspicious day of May 5th, 2019. Recital of many extra ordinary and mesmerizing musical notes by young and old alike amazed parents and families gathered to celebrate the annual day along with Kalabharati students, stakeholders, and benefactors. The Head Priest of Durga Bari, Honored Buddhadev Bhattacharya graced the event as Chief Guest in Sur Auditorium at Houston Durga Bari Society. Cheerful parents and audience members were excited to be present for the spiritual renderings. This occasion will long last in the memories of all. In a memorable gala event, the program started with Vedic chanting, invocated by Yashvi Ganapathi, followed by Mihir Prabhu with Panchamrita Snanam and
Siya Tamboli Mantra Pushpam. Mridula Karna, Karuna Surapaneni, Shivangana Pakalapati, Sita Goel, Dhivya Nagarajan, Geetha Ganesan chanted Ganapathi Atharwashirsha and Durga Suktam. The musical program began with a wonderful group performance of fifteen students rendering Raga Revati “Bho Shambho”. Shivangana Pakalapati, Dhivya Nagarajan, Bhinaya Muruganandham, Usha Narasimhan, Lakshmi Sushma Ponnada, Subha Vishwanathan, Eesha Surapaneni on Veena were accompanied by Jayesh Naik on Harmonium and Raju Pakalapati on the drums. Phani Durbhakula, Santosh Sivakumar, Sahiti Kommuri, Sharvi Dama, Jyotsna Kamath, Swetha Mandanapu performed on the keyboards followed by solo music performances. All students were blessed and given awards by the Head Priest. Winners of Kalabharati 2019 Art competition received trophies.
Kalabharati was founded with a mission to teach the essential building blocks for happy, healthy and stress free life to build confidence in themselves. Kalabharati has been imparting children and adults of Asian American origin, growing up in this country with Vedic values. It provides an opportunity for them to learn Indian classical music vocal and instruments and Vedic Chanting and bhajans in a loving and nourishing environment. Art classes are carefully tailored to teach children to master various techniques so they can apply and visualize art in all walks of life. In general, they teach Vocal, Veena, Keyboard, Harmonium, Guitar, Mandolin, Mohan Veena/ Slide Guitar and Vedic Chanting Kalabharati expresses sincere thanks to Prabhu Abhay Joshi for the sound system, program coordination by Dr. Rakesh Goel, and photography by Ganesan.
Admin Assistant (Full-Time) Job Duties include assisting legal staff in handling client documents,
daily mail processing, creating and maintaining logs in database, managing and maintaining office supply, visit agency offices and bank for office matters, handling physical file records, managing electronic file record and any other miscellaneous activities to support office work flow. Requirement: High school or higher education plus oneyear experience working in a business environment. Must have good computer skills to manage records, perform online activities, and communicate over emails. Must have authorization to work in the U.S. Must have valid driver’s license and own use vehicle. Email resume to: careers@grwpc.com
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
14
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
Indic Forum Offers Unmesa: A Summer Program in India for Teenagers
Indic Forum gathering in about the Unmesa summer program, which will take place at Auroville near Pondicherry in India. Shown above is the Matrimandir meditation center.
Sugar Land: Indic ForumHouston organized a presentation, “An Introduction to Unmesa”, on a summer program for kids at Auroville, Pondicherry, India on Tuesday evening, May 28 at the Shirdi Sai Jalaram Mandir in Sugar Land. The Indo American parents of teenage kids watched an interesting introductory presentation of Camp UnmeSa, about a unique immersive learning opportunity in Indic Knowledge Systems conducted by Agastya Gurukulam in India. Pramod Kumar, welcomed the audience and introduced the pre-
senter, Sree Balaji, Chair, Board of Directors, Agastya Foundation. Sree is a successful technology entrepreneur, and a passionate student of Sanskrit, Tamil and History. Based in Seattle WA, Sree is the CEO of iLink Group and is an organization builder and an accomplished business and social leader. He has a bachelor’s degree from BITS Pilani, India and a master’s from Auburn University. Sree’s activities include teaching Sanskrit and Tamil and organic farming. Sree explained that the 25-day workshop aims to provide the participants with a well-balanced
integral learning experience. This summer program is designed for Indian-American kids, between the age of 13-18, who will spend three weeks at Auroville, Pondicherry, India, this summer between July 28 and Aug 22. The program is designed in the Indic cultural framework. The curriculum includes Sanskrit language and literature, Indian mathematics and science, Indian history and architecture, fine arts of India; Field trips will include Cultural sites, artist studios, organic farms, wildlife preserves. Students will participate in yoga, meditation,
classical music, dance and martial arts, traditional arts and crafts, audiovisual projects and many outdoor activities. Students will be able to build new pathways in their intellect through this alternate education system which can help them build a broader outlook overall. The stellar line-up of teachers for this camp includes individuals like Dr. K Ramasubramanian, Professor at IIT Bombay; Dr. Sampadananda Mishra, Director of SAFIC and Visiting Faculty at IIT Chennai and Dr. Chitra Madhavan, India’s leading expert in Temple Architecture, among others.
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
Archana, daughter of Mahadevan and Archana, a prospective student who enrolled for the coming camp, in her short speech described her enthusiasm to join the camp, and how excited she is to see Pondicherry. Rajiv Verma, the organizer for Indic Forum highlighted the significance of this camp, “Kids of Indian origin are most definitely bond to gain a positive image about India and Indian culture which will aid in building their self-confidence. Interested parents can email info@agastyagurukulam.org or call Sree Balaji at 206-992-9395.
COMMUNITY
May 31, 2019
15
3rd Intl Konarak Festival: Dance, Music & Cuisine from Eastern India
Sugar Land: The 3rd Annual 2019 Konark Festival in Houston is a Flagship event, filled to the brim with the best of Eastern and Northeastern Indian Classical Dance, Music, and Food. On Saturday, June 8, 2019, at 2 p.m. at
Wisdom High School, 6529 Beverly Hill St., Houston, TX 77057. East and Northeast part of India is widely considered to be quaint, peaceful and in harmony with nature. Some of the performing arts of this region date back to a thou-
sand years or more. It’s unlikely that Houston has ever seen such a diverse collection of Indian performing arts all unified on a single platform. A multitude of Eastern and Northeastern Indian Classical dances like Odissi, from the state of Odisha; Manipuri, from the state of Manipur; and NEWS PRODUCER Job Posting Sattriya, from the state of Assam perAre you a Rockstar Producer ready to take on a next level challenge? We are lookformed by talented ing for an aggressive, proven, passionate, cool-under-pressure News Producer who dancers from India knows what it takes to put together a fast-paced, creative, highly-showcased newscast. Houston is a major market that is a magnet for stories that often make national and regional artists headlines. will enthrall the audience. Along KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned Television station in Houston, TX wants a vocal and confident producer who knows how to handle the big stories, dig for informative, with the classiinteresting content, knows how to meet the needs of the ‘new’ news audience, and cal dances, tradiknows when it’s time to abandon everything for breaking news, weather, or traffic. tional folk dances You must have excellent news judgement and the ability to come up with and pitch unique story ideas every day. You will be required to command the control room and manage an ever-evolving rundown during live newscasts.
from the same region, a fashion show showcasing local costumes, and live instrumentals on Bamboo Flutes and traditional drums, strings are bound to captivate and entice Houstonians in general and serious art lovers alike. The guests will be able to distinct mouthwatering regional cuisine that you won’t be able to find in any restaurant. Local and regional Chefs will be working hard to deliver traditional fare that both appeases your senses and your heart. You won’t want to miss this for anything! The event is organized by Odissi Academy. The city of Houston supports this effort with a generous grant through the Houston Art Al-
liance, so do many other organizations and individual donors. Odissi Academy is a not-forprofit and 501(c)3 organization dedicated to promoting teaching, coaching, promoting, and performing Indian Classical Dance and Music in the USA.
For Advertising, Call 713-789 6397
Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation
Candidates must also have complete understanding of how to promote and utilize digital content, including live streaming. Knowledge of ENPS and desktop editing a plus. Will need to show examples of newscasts, and submit tease and headline writing samples. This is a high profile position that requires a high level of skill. Candidates must have at least three years line-producing experience in a medium or major market. To be considered interested applicants must apply online at disneycareers.com, Ref Job # 669905BR. Please upload a cover letter, resume and list of references. Please email writing samples or link to your latest newscast to: KTRK.HR@abc.com. No Telephone Calls Please KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity
Job Posting
Digital Producer – Part Time Temporary
Are you a digital content guru? Are you obsessed with major news and top trending stories of the day? Do you have a knack for producing creative digital content that generates high engagement? KTRK TV, the ABC owned station located in Houston, Texas is looking for a parttime temporary digital producer to be part of the team leading the charge to take our digital efforts to the next level. The ideal candidate will have the following: o Three years experience working in major market television or print news internet operation o Ability to edit video o Photoshop experience o Proven social media expertise o Flexibility with work schedule depending on station needs and projects
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 # 669908BR. No Telephone Calls Please KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity
Surili Shaam Ekal Ke Naam Nayana Sarma
Jayakumar Natu
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 fast-paced environment. We are a 24/7 news operation, so digital producers must be willing to work any day or shift, as needed. This is a part-time, temporary position.
Houston Chapter Presents
Vishwanath Batunge
Saturday, June 1, 2019
Daxesh Patel Divyansh Bhatt
Fundraising Dinner
Complimentary Entertainment Show by Vishwanath Batunge Group Dinner: 6:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. (U of H Student Center) Program: 8:00 P.M. - 11:00 P.M (Cullen Performance Hall)
Tickets - VIP - $50 / General Admission - $30 Online Tickets : https://www.ekal.org $5 Paid Parking
University of Houston, Cullen Performance Hall / Student Center 4800 Calhoun Rd, Houston, TX 77204 (832) 842-3100
Contact Information Kokilaben Shah - 832-443-0997 · Praveena Danda - 713-376-0534 · Urmi Desai - 832-498-7759 Shivani Shah - 908-392-3293 · Harish Gandhi - 713-858-2256 · Yogi Patel - 713-885-6241 Dharmendra Shah - 713-705-3892
Donation : WWW.EKAL.ORG
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com
16
May 31, 2019
Indo-American News • Friday, MAY 31, 2019 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com