Indo-American News: June 12, 2020

Friday, June 12, 2020 | Vol. 39, No. 24

Indo American News

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June12, 2020

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Published weekly from Houston, TX

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Solidarity with “Black Lives Matter”

Sewa Raises $1 MM

Special Coverage

P2-4, P10 A look inside the virtual art gallery #ArtForJustice founded by Sugar Land resident Karim Farishta.

(Courtesy of INVI)).

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COMMUNITY

June 12, 2020

Interfaith Coalition Signs Statement Vowing to Fight for Racial Justice

Washington DC: More than 75 organizations and individuals representing Hindu, Jain, and Sikh communities came together to publish a statement of solidarity with the calls from across the nation to end systemic racism and police brutality in the United States once and for all.

“This coalition statement amplifies our community’s collective call for ending systemic racism and police brutality at this critical juncture in our nation’s history and shares a message that we care deeply about the well-being of African Americans and stand in solidarity with them,” said Suhag Shukla, Esq., HAF Executive Director.

Spearheaded by the Hindu American Foundation, the statement, titled “Our Dharma Demands Us to Fight For Racial Justice & A Better Way Forward”, says: “The American system is being bent. It is being tested. Indian Americans can straighten the arc of justice by coming together as engaged and thoughtful Americans, lending our voices to those suffering from hate and injustice, offering our helping hands to those communities hardest hit, and pushing elected officials to enact lasting solutions.

Now more than ever, we need to bring our respective Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh dharma to the forefront of our advocacy and our daily interaction with friends, neighbors, coworkers and communities at large. We believe that Indian Americans can be powerful agents of change and ambassadors of peace and pluralism to help en-

sure that the promise of America – equality, freedom, and dignity – is fulfilled for all Americans.

Our teachings remind us that we are united by a shared divinity.

That compassion and truth must be the foundation of our moral compasses, and that the exercise of discernment and selflessness in our interactions with the world is the only path that can bring about universal well-being. These are powerful principles for us to practice through service aimed towards justice and the betterment of all people.”

As for what members of dharmic faiths can do, the statement recommends: Acknowledging that racism is real; working on eradicating institutionalized racism; volunteering with organizations working to empower the African American community; building relationships with local law enforcement; and, demand elected officials at every level of government work towards institutional change.

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Houston: The Harris County District Attorney dismissed nearly 800 cases against protesters who were arrested during marches against police brutality in the past three weeks.

DA Kim Ogg announced that prosecutors dismissed 796 cases after conducting a review that divided the cases into two groups — those who sought to do harm to others and property and those arrested for simple civil disobedience. Ogg’s office said they began filing motions to dismiss before sunrise Tuesday.

The cases dismissed were for non-violent misdemeanor offenses, mostly obstructing a highway and trespassing.

“The job of the prosecutor is to seek individualized justice in every case,” Ogg said in a press release. “While probable cause existed for the arrests of those people who refused to disperse after being ordered to do so by police, our young prosecutors worked hard to identify the few offenders who came to inflict harm on others and intentional damage to property.”

“The result of their case-by-case review is astounding,” Ogg said.

Only 51 adults and one juvenile now remain charged with active cases, which include 35 misdemeanor charges and 19 felony charges. Those charges range from weapons offenses to aggravated assault of a peace officer.

“With so many professionals wanting to contribute, I am confident that the criminal defense bar will volunteer their services to clean up the criminal records of all involved,” Ogg said.

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COMMUNITY

June12, 2020

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A Perspective on Current Racial Tensions from an African-American Hindu Leader

By Benny Tillman I grew up in the South during the 1950s and 60s. Those were troublesome times for the African American community. We were identified as Negroes and as an ethnic minority, it was very difficult to understand what our place in the world was. Honestly, there was an element of shame associated with being black.

During the late sixties, I became involved in the “Hippy culture” which exposed me to the concept of “Universal love.” I was not familiar with this Vedic concept of universal love, which is foundational to the true Hindu/Vedic culture.

My first exposure to this culture was through my association in 1971, with Transcendental Meditation introduced by the late Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. I was a performing artist in Atlanta and the surrounding areas and heavily involved with the culture of “Sex, Drugs and Rock n Roll.”

Eventually around 1972, I came in contact with disciples of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder Acharya of the International So-

Benny Tillman, now known as Balbhadra Dasa.

ciety of Krishna Consciousness.

They introduced me to the Bhagavad Gita, which is the most wellknown of all Vedic texts. This holy book is very dear and sacred to all Hindus and Westerners who have adopted these teachings and practices. I became an initiated disciple of Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in July 1974 during his visit to Chicago for a major Hindu/Vedic festival, the Ratha Yatra.

Interestingly, around 1974, I was fortunate to meet one of Swami Prabhupada’s very first disciples, Rupanuga dasa. He encouraged to join the local Atlanta Hare Krishna

Temple. He said they would train me as a leader and then I should go back and help the Black community. This instruction has constantly inspired me to expose this great Hindu/Vedic culture and philosophy to the urban communities.

Central to the Hindu/Vedic philosophy is the concept that we are not these material bodies but that we are eternal spiritual beings, temporarily inhabiting these material bodies. So whether we identify as an African American, Hindu American, Asian American, White American, or an American of color, we are all spiritual beings equal in the eyes of the Supreme Lord.

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One thing that I have learned during my several efforts to share Hindu/Vedic principles in the primarily African American community, is that these communities are not looking for a handout. They are desperately in need of help in building up their communities, especially in the areas of affordable housing not just gentrification. Jobs and other meaningful social activities for their youth and young adults are also a major concern along with educational help.

Some years ago, I partnered with a young African American community activist who was working in my hometown of East Point Georgia and during that time some local people who knew about my association with the Hindu community, said to me “Mr. Tillman, could you ask your Hindu friends to teach us how to do business like

they are doing.” One reason for this question is that many of the small businesses in their communities are owned by Hindu community members.

I serve as the president of the Vedic Friends Association, an organization focused on preserving and presenting the various aspects of the Hindu/Vedic culture, in a manner suitable for the present environment which is plagued by such issues as racism. This is the first time to my knowledge that they have elected an African American as the president of a major Hindu based organization. I am honored to serve in this capacity and the support and encouragement has been tremendous.

I am confident that with the vast resources of our Hindu/Vedic community, we can have a positive and powerful impact on developing our communities of color.

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June 12, 2020

Virtual Art Gallery #ArtForJustice Unveiled

by Sugar Land Resident Karim Farishta

Sugar Land: A virtual art gallery named ‘#ArtForJustice’ was unveiled Monday to show solidarity in memory of Houston-native George Floyd, who was killed when a white police officer knelt on his neck in Minneapolis.

Founded by Sugar Land resident Karim Farishta, more than 150 artists from 14 states submitted their artwork in just three days.

“What started as a local effort to show support turned into an expression of love, celebration, and solidarity starting in Texas and gaining submissions nationwide and globally,” Farishta stated in a press release, “This virtual art gallery is a unique interpretation that seeks to immerse everyone in a transformative moment and energize us in our fight to bring justice.”

The art gallery was designed

by INVI, a minority-owned architecture visualization company based in Houston, to create a space that would allow people to express solidarity in the form of art, according to a press release.

The virtual gallery is designed in 3D and is embraced in a rough, rocky formation representing the chaotic time in which Americans found themselves in, INVI explained in a press release.

Art submissions in the gallery walls reflect the voices to honor Floyd and to make a stand with the Black Lives Matter movement.

“George Floyd was a part of our community, “Fort Bend County Judge KP George said in a statement, “#ArtForJustice started as a way for our local residents to remember him, but it is clear this memorial symbolizes broader solidar-

ity and a communal celebration.”

The #ArtForJustice virtual gallery was designed and curated by Afreen Ali and Giangtien Nguyen, co-founders of INVI, the minority-owned architecture visualization company in Houston, TX. The founders describe, “Due to the current global pandemic of COVID-19 and its cause for physical distancing, we have created a space that will allow us to be virtually connected, express our solidarity in the form of art, and let our creative imaginations be seen.” #ArtForJustice Architectural Perspective from Afreen Ali and Giangtien Nguyen, Founders of INVI, Houston, TX “‘Enter to Change the Cycle of History’ are the words written on the concrete before you enter the virtual art gallery. From the entrance of the exhibit, you see a clenched fist sculpture located at the center, symbolizing our fight for justice and commemorating George Floyd, a man raised right here in Houston. In curating this work, we pay tribute to the countless Black brothers and sisters we’ve lost to police bru-

tality and invite you to share this space in thoughtful reflection.”

“Darkness evokes feelings of distress, danger, and defenselessness. Yet, the brightest light is found in the darkest places. The natural light that glows into the space from the skylight above will guide you through the gallery. We want the light to be your direction and allow you to experience it in a counterclockwise path, changing the cycle of history. Let yourself experience the emotions of artists around the world and hear their voices from their artistic renderings.”

“The entry of the gallery is embraced in a rough, rocky formation, representing the chaotic time in which we currently find ourselves. The trees at the end of the hallway symbolize life and hope that still exists during these tumultuous times. The art on the walls is our voices to honor George Floyd and stand in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter Movement.

At the end of your journey, you will exit the museum through a more orderly smooth exit, symbolizing our hope for the future.”

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COMMUNITY

June12, 2020

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Sewa International Raises More than $1 Million to Battle Coronavirus

By Vidya Tontalapur

Houston: Sewa International’s Chief Operating Officer and Vice President, Arun Kankani announced that the organization had crossed the one million dollar mark in fund-raising over the past ten weeks since Sewa International took on the challenge to battle the pandemic raging across the world.

“We are the small engine that can.

Our steady, coordinated, hard work in supplying Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to those fighting on the frontlines of this pandemic, as well as providing a variety of support to those who are caught in the web of this pandemic – from stranded international students to people who have lost jobs, and from individuals who are seeking plasma transfusion to providing food and groceries for people in need – has enabled generous donors to understand and acknowledge our work. They have given of their trust and generosity to us, and we thank them for both,” Arun Kankani said.

In their ongoing effort to help support communities across the country during this unprecedented pandemic, Sewa International has distributed more than 625,000 masks, 63,000 hot meals and food kits, donated more than $100,000 to food pantries, and engaged and coordinated the work of more than 200 professionals including doctors, attorneys, financial and employment specialists to offer more than 90 webinars to provide expert guidance. This work carried out through its 43 chapters in 198 cities across the country, with more than 3,000 volunteers involved in

various relief activities unremittingly, has made an impact across communities. Nearly 1,000 Sewa volunteers are engaged in making homemade masks. Sewa International is also running 10 helplines in different metropolitan areas to provide non-medical advice and assistance. Sewa has also helped hundreds of stranded international

students and travelers so far, coordinating the work with foreign consulates.

GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency “While we are in the midst of this pandemic relief work, Sewa received the 2020 Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

This highest recognition from

GuideStar shows Sewa’s commitment to transparency,” said Arun Kankani. As per information from GuideStar, by providing complete information required for this rating, non-profits give donors better insight into their work to help them make educated decisions.

“We live in really challenging times, and the whole world has been impacted. As we continue to work to mitigate the problems people are facing, we want to thank our generous donors without whose help we would have found it more challenging to carry out this work. Look out for our volunteers in their yellow t-shirts in your community, and know that they are there to help you,” said Arun Kankani.

Donors Form the Bedrock Sewa is following a multipronged approach in its relief efforts and a few philanthropists have pledged $50,000 each to ensure continued success of different tracks. These donors have become the bedrocks on which Sewa is building its robust COVID-19 response.

For its general relief stream, Sewa has received support from Avadhesh Agarwal, hotelier, businessman and philanthropist from Los Angeles, CA. This track includes COVID-19 relief efforts ranging from running 11 Sewa helplines across the country to help the needy with non-medical advice to providing food and medicines to the stranded students, travelers.

Sewa received financial backing from Jugal Malani, an industrialist & philanthropist from Houston, TX, for its Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) track. Sewa is

supplying masks, sanitizers, face shields and other protective gear to first responders who are on the frontline to protect our communities from COVID-19 pandemic.

Food & Essentials Sewa’s Food and Essential Support initiative received funding from Rani Kumra, a philanthropist from Bay Area, CA. Sewa is supplying hot meals, groceries, medicines, homemade masks, hygiene kits and other essentials to vulnerable families and individuals across the country through this track.

Volunteers belonging to Sewa International or its partner organizations in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Colombia, Pakistan, Trinidad & Tobago, and Guyana are supporting migrant workers and underserved communities affected by COVID-19 by providing them with food, masks, and other essentials. Ramesh Jain, entrepreneur and philanthropist from Germany, is backing the international COVID-19 relief efforts with his generous donation.

To reach this fundraising milestone, Sewa has also received unstinting financial support from many organizations. Chinmaya Mission, Houston has given $25,001, All India Movement (AIM) for Seva, Arya Samaj, Greater Houston, Vallabh Priti Seva Samaj of Houston and Datta Yoga Center have donated $10,000 or more to Sewa for COVID-19 relief work. More than 400 organizations across the country have supported Sewa through their monetary donations and by providing volunteer force, food, material and space.

Fort Bend County Creates $22 Million Small Business Emergency Grant Richmond: County Judge KP George and the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court today created a Small Business Emergency Grant Program to address the financial hardships our small businesses have experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The $22 million dollars allocated to the program comes from the federal CARES ACT. As Fort Bend County gets back to work, County Judge KP George emphasized this initiative targets the small business sector specifically as they often have unique challenges. “Our business community will bounce back, but assistance is needed to get the commercial engine roaring once again.

The grant program is one way in which we can reach out to our small businesses, the most vulnerable in our commercial sector and offer a path forward. We are proud to support our small businesses the backbone of our economy.”

The available grants, which may be up to $10,000 per business, are available to small businesses who incurred eligible expenses under the CARES Act, including the

purchase of Personal Protective Equipment, re-opening supplies, renovations, equipment, inventory, and remote working expenses, as well as and lease/mortgage assistance and utilities. The business must have incurred these expenses as of April 3, 2020 when the county issued the Stay At Home order.

A Zoom webinar was scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, 2020, will explain the application process, and the webinar was recorded and available for viewing here. The online application process will open Monday, June 15th. A link of program specifics and how to apply will be posted on the county’s website.

Last Tuesday, May 26, Fort Bend County Commissioners Court voted to authorize the County Attorney to file amicus briefs in support of litigation that argues for allowing Republican, Democratic, & Independent voters whose health may be at risk when voting in person to vote by mail.

“The citizens of Fort Bend County must be able to exercise their right to vote without putting their lives and the lives of their loved ones at

FB County Judge K/P. George

risk. During these extraordinary circumstances, we must protect our voters and election workers while we battle the highly contagious novel coronavirus,” said County Judge KP George. “We are fighting to expand the freedom of choice for our voters to ensure they can both protect themselves and participate in the increasingly important Democratic process. We use the mail for our tax refunds, registering for the draft, and for more than 10% of Texas voters who are already eligible to vote by mail. More than 20 states have

successful track records with major vote-by-mail programs, which gives us a replicable and responsible path for this necessary expansion of voter choice.”

Fort Bend County will now be joining various pieces of litigation filed by the Texas League of Women Voters and other non-profit agencies. Plaintiffs seek enforcement of the definition of “disability” under the Elections Code as allowing anyone for whom voting in person presents a likelihood of injury to the voter’s health in order to provide a consistent statewide standard for voting by mail.

The Elections Code broadly defines a “disabled” voter as any citizen who has a: “. . . sickness

or physical condition that prevents the voter from appearing at the polling place on Election Day without a likelihood of needing personal assistance or of injuring the voter’s health.” Plaintiffs argue that the novel coronavirus places all voters in the position of contracting a disease that may be fatal or cause severe suffering with long-term health consequences that is, “injuring the voter’s health” should they be forced to vote in person. The plain language of that statutory definition does not require a current medical condition but rather includes those whose health may be injured by appearing in person to vote.

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COMMUNITY

June 12, 2020

Hindus of Greater Houston Hold Successful Blood Drive at Arya Samaj

By Manu Shah

Houston: On May 31st, Hindus of Greater Houston’s COVID-19 relief efforts extended beyond multiple food drives, PPE donations and raising funds. The organization, in partnership with Arya Samaj Houston and the Gulf Coast Blood Center, organized its first blood drive for the blood bank whose supplies were being stretched thin.

One of Houston’s top cardiologists, Dr. Randeep Suneja was the first to donate blood. Ayushi Sapru, a high schooler who had come to volunteer, was so inspired by the donors that she ended up donating blood too. Three members of a Jain family took their turns as well. In all, 33 members of the community showed up out of which 13 were eligible, three gave RBC’s and three donated plasma.

Others such as those who had travelled to India in the last one year, could not donate. Considering the present circumstances, community leader Vijay Pallod described the turnout as “pretty good.”

The idea of a blood drive was first pitched by Dev Mahajan, HGH Chairman and a Trustee of Arya Samaj Houston. Community members like Heena Naik, Sanjay Jain, Vijay Pallod and Gayatri Kapoor quickly warmed to the idea and began to spread the word. The initial response was not very encouraging and even until ten days before the blood drive, only 11 people had signed up. Undeterred,

High school student Ayushi Sapre also gave blood.

Varsha Vakil, an epidemiologist with the Houston Health Department,

Gayatri Kapoor {lrft) and Neena Naik volunteered amd gave blood.

the team accelerated their efforts to reach out to multiple organizations in the city urging people to

register. These efforts paid off as 38 people volunteered. The blood drive was scheduled from 9:00 am

to 1:30 pm with 15 minute slots to minimize waiting periods. All precautionary measures were taken to reduce the risk of COVID -19 infection.

Gayatri Kapoor, the heart and soul behind “Be the Match” – the bone marrow donation program in Houston is vocal about the need for Indo Americans to turn out in greater numbers to donate blood.

Thalassemia and other blood cancers, she pointed out, are conditions that require blood transfusions every 2-3 weeks and an Indo American needing a blood transfer has a greater chance of finding a match within his own ethnic community.

Heena Naik is a Training Special-

ist at “The Blood Center.”

Inspired by the thought that “Giving blood is giving life to someone in need,” she was one of the first to register and donate. Sharing a similar message, she also encouraged Indo Americans to step up “during these critical times because there are many patients’ whose lives are dependent on blood donations.”

Ayushi, who needed her parent’s permission to donate blood as she is under 18, had originally signed up to be a volunteer at the “Be The Match” booth representing the U&I non-profit organization. But seeing the incredible turnout of donors of all different ages, she said she “was inspired to donate blood as well. Knowing that my donation could potentially be used to alleviate someone’s medical condition or even save a life, I feel that my decision was definitely a memorable one.”

Building on this success, HGH’s Chairman Dev Mahajan announced that the organization would organize a blood drive twice a year and the next one will be in collaboration with Vallabh Priti Seva Samaj of Houston (VPSS). He further added that this blood drive not only “sends a positive and powerful message about Vedic Hindu values but also offers an opportunity to work together for a noble cause and do seva.”

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COMMUNITY

June12, 2020

7

Assassination of a Kashmiri Pandit Minority Leader in Kashmir by Islamic Terrorists Demands a Stern Action by the J&K Government Boston: Indo-American Kashmir Forum (IAKF) strongly condemns the ruthless killing of young Kashmiri Hindu peace advocate, Ajay Pandita (Bharti), by terrorists in Kashmir belonging to the Islamic terrorist group, The Resistance Front (TRF).

IAKF prays for Mr. Pandita’s grieving family, including his parents, wife, and two daughters.

Mr. Pandita was a popular grassroot community organizer, and an elected leader of a local village administrative committee from the Anantnag region in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, India.

His belief in democracy, and his attempts to represent all Kashmiris at the local village level, was sadly cut short by the barbaric act of Islamic terrorists, whose only belief continues to be the establishment of an Islamic Caliphate.

The targeted killing of Mr. Pandita proves that the ethnic cleansing of the minority Kashmiri Hindu community in the valley continues unabated. His gruesome, public murder is a reminder of the havoc brought upon the entire aboriginal Kashmiri Hindu community, who have been driven from their homeland in the Kashmir valley through repeated pogroms over the past few centuries, most recently beginning in 1990.

IAKF denounces the local gov-

Mr. Pandita was a popular grassroot community organizer, and an elected leader of a local village administrative committee from the Anantnag region in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

ernment’s lackadaisical approach to the security needs of Mr. Pandita, as well as other lower-tier public officials. IAKF demands that Kashmiri Hindus still residing in the valley – who are obvious targets of Islamic terrorists – be given extra police protection until peace in the valley is restored.

IAKF also condemns the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and its supporters within the Kashmir valley,

for promoting, funding, aiding and harboring global Islamic terror organizations such as Lashkar-eTaiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), and The Resistance Front (TRF).

The Resistance Front (TRF), which has taken responsibility for Mr. Pandita’s brutal murder, is merely a new, consolidated name for Islamic terrorists from the three groups already active in Kashmir – HM, LeT and JeM.

The United Nations and its Security Council must now declare Pakistan as a State Sponsor of Ter-

rorism, and world leaders must support an organized anti-terrorist campaign against the government and military establishment of Pakistan Mr. Pandita made the ultimate sacrifice for establishing peace and democracy in Kashmir, and his family deserves swift justice.

IAKF demands Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir to immediately institute an official inquiry into this vicious killing, identify the responsible parties, and punish the guilty parties. IAKF also demands that all killings of Kashmiri Hindus be investigated, and actions taken to ensure the long term safety of the Kashmiri Hindu religious minority.

IAKF Board Dr. Vijay Sazawal Dr. Rajiv Pandit Mr. Lalit Koul Mr. Raj Koul Dr. Rahul Pandit

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ENTERTAINMENT

June 12, 2020

“Choked”: How Middle Class Struggles with Money and Matters of Heart

By Sreeparna Sengupta

STORY: When Sarita Pillai discovers that the clogged drain under her kitchen sink is spitting out bundles of neatly packed cash, she thinks that finally her family’s financial woes will see an end. But will it?

REVIEW:Right from the first frame, ‘Choked’ hooks you with its mood and milieu. Set in a middleclass housing society in Mumbai, replete with its narrow staircases, yellowed walls and peeling paint, we get an inside into the Pillai family and their close knit neighbors.

The Pillais - Sarita (Saiyami Kher) and her husband, Sushant (Roshan Mathew) begin almost every morning with a squabble over a clogged sink. And it soon gives way to an exhaustive list of all the chores that Sushant has shirked around the house - a copious count of which is maintained by their little son Sameer. Who often turns into a mediator for their petty fights. It’s obvious Sushant and Sarita are poles apart in their temperament. While Sarita juggles managing the household, her job as a cashier at a bank and routine follows up on Sameer’s school homework, Sushant is unable to hold on to any job over a period of time. From being a driver for a

shared cab service to trying to sell insurance policies, he seems to have tried it all. Now life for him flits between playing a game of carrom with his building buddies and missing out on simple chores.

There’s also money that he owes to people who have now starting hounding Sarita for their payback.

With financial strains looming large over them, Sarita and Sushant drift apart in their marriage. Once helmed together by their common dream to make it as musicians in Mumbai. While all that’s left of it

today –- is Sushant strumming a few strings with all the time he has at hand and Sarita making a noise about all that’s come undone.

So, one night when Sarita stumbles upon bundles of notes spurting out of their choked drain pipe, it feels as though some of their problems could be put to rest.

Keeping Sushant in the dark about this mysterious development in their household, she starts stuffing the notes in careful corners of the house. But perhaps, she has she bitten off more than she can

Anushka Sharma Unveils First Look of “Bulbbul”

By Arushi Jain After the success of her Amazon Prime Video web series Paatal Lok, Anushka Sharma on Wednesday released the first look of her next production, Bulbbul.

In the teaser of the Netflix original film, we get to see a girl prancing over trees. Sharing the clip, Anushka wrote on Twitter, “Here’s your first look at #Bulbbul, a fantastic tale about self-discovery, and justice, wrapped in lore, mystery and intrigue, coming soon on @NetflixIndia. Can’t wait to share more!” Bulbbul tells the story of Satya and his brother’s child bride Bulbul. Satya is sent to school in

England, and upon his return, he finds out about Bulbul serving the people of his village after being abandoned by his brother. But the village is haunted by a mysterious woman and Satya must find out the truth.

Produced by Anushka Sharma’s Clean Slate Films, Bulbbul stars Avinash Tiwary, Tripti Dimri and Rahul Bose in the lead roles. It is set to release on June 24. Anushka, too, shared a meme about it on her Instagram Stories. It showed Joey from FRIENDS looking happy on seeing the poster but gets shocked when he realises that the woman has inverted feet. Anushka simply added a laughing emoji to her

post.

Netflix’s Twitter account also shared a post. “How can I sleep knowing the legs on this person are backwards,” they wrote in a tweet. Fans sarcastically thanked them for ruining their peace.

“Omgomgomg, this takes me back to my childhood. ALL THOSE HORROR STORIES ABOUT JINNS. WHY WOULD SOMEONE MAKE THIS,” read a tweet.

“Okay. I did not notice that first and now I’m going to have nightmares. Thanks @NetflixIndia,” read another. “Its 2:45 at night and after watching this tweet I literally can’t sleep,” wrote another.

chew. Suddenly, with the government announcing demonization, Sarita’s plans take an unexpected turn. There’s always a chance of the truth leaking out, right?

Even as the story centers on Sarita frustrations and aspirations, Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Choked’ plays out the relationship dynamics between the couple with a nuanced touch. Also, as the setting builds up, we get a peek into the lives of their neighbors and it breathes life into the everyday momentum of the middle-class life. The first hour

of Choked is tightly-paced with a compelling background score, detailed ambience and well-defined characters that keeps you invested.

Although it does lose its grip in places, along with oddly placed songs that interrupt the flow. However the screenplay (Nihit Bhave) brings us a unique premise with every day characters caught in an unusual situation. The writing is finely layered which helps bring to life the characters and the high moments in the film. And the dialogues add to the spark.

The performances are top-notch.

Saiyami Kher shoulders the film confidently and pulls off a stellar performance. Roshan Mathew nails it as the unreliable but softhearted Sushant. Watch out for the scene where he brings Sarita her lunch to office and has a moving conversation with her before leaving. Amruta Shubhash and Rajshree Deshpande as well-meaning neighbors, liven up the scene. The background score (Karsh Kale), sound design (Gautam Nair) and cinematography (Sylvester Fonseca) set the mood brilliantly.

As ‘Choked’ opens its doors to a middle-class Maharashtrian set up, it also draws us close to their dreams and aspirations which have perhaps gotten choked by the drudgery of everyday life. -- Times News Network

Sewa & TV Asia’s: “Sur Sangam”

Houston: Sewa International and TV ASIA are presenting “Sur Sangam”, an exclusive musical performance featuring six prominent singers -- Ankit Tiwari, Shaan, Anup Jalota, Daler Mehndi, Jaspinder Narula and Madhushree Bhattacharya -- on Sunday, June 14 at 1 PM EST. The event is going to be telecast live by TV Asia and World BBTV and streamed online on Sewa’s Social Media channels. The concert, which will help raise funds for Sewa’s COVID-19 relief efforts,

Indo-American News • Friday, JUNE 12, 2020 • www.indoamerican-news.com

can be watched online at http:// ow.ly/17OS50A1b3K. Viewers can also download World BBTV App on their mobile phones, computers or smart tv to watch this event live.

“It is great to partner with TV ASIA to present these six artistes in an exclusive music concert to raise funds for our COVID-19 relief work. This is a talented and popular ensemble and I am confident that music lovers will enjoy the show,” said Prof. Sree Sreenath, President of Sewa Inter-

SOUTH ASIA

June12, 2020

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Signs of De-escalation: China, India Pull Back Troops from Key LAC Points Ladakh: In what may be the first signs of de-escalation of tensions along the Line of Actual Control, Indian and Chinese troops have gradually started moving back from standoff positions at different points in the Galwan and Hot Spring areas of Ladakh.

While there has been no official statement yet on whether a disengagement is underway, government sources Tuesday said: “We note the developments along the LAC, and will be monitoring them closely in the next few days.”

Officials cautioned that this should be seen as a “first step” towards a long, phased and gradual process of disengagement, and there should be no expectation of immediate or quick withdrawal of troops and weaponry. Divisionlevel commanders of the two armies were scheduled to meet Wednesday.

The disengagement process may take weeks. “Physical verification as well as satellite imagery will help us in complete disengagement,”

sources said.

Deployments by both sides took place over the last one month, and it will take them time to step back.

A r m y sources confirmed that troops have moved back on either side after the June 6 meeting between XIV Corps Commander Lt General Harinder Singh and South Xinjiang Military District Commander Major General Liu Lin at the Chushul-Moldo border point.

Apart from the build-up along the LAC, Army sources pointed to Chinese inductions in the depth areas – these included fighter bombers, rocket forces, air defence

radars. India, sources said, also deployed “major assets” a few kilometres behind the frontline to mirror the Chinese deployment.

Sources said these will remain there till the Chinese reduce their presence to peacetime strength and go back to locations as in April.

At the border meeting, the two commanders, sources said, had a one-on-one conversation for nearly three hours before delegations

were brought in.

The two sides agreed that troops were involved in faceoffs at five locations: Patrol Points 14, 15 and 17, Finger area of Pangong Tso and Chushul.

W h i l e troops are stepping back in other areas, the standoff continues in the contested Fingers area on the north bank of Pangong Tso where Chinese troops are not allowing Indian patrols beyond Finger 4 – it is 8 km west of Finger 8 which India says denotes the LAC. Within the next ten days, officers at division, brigade and battalion levels will hold discussions to settle local issues for further

Indo-American News • Friday, JUNE 12, 2020 • www.indoamerican-news.com

de-escalation. Resolution of the Pangong Tso standoff may require another meeting at the level of Corps or Division Commanders, sources said.

During the meeting, the Indians told the Chinese that construction on the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DSDBO) road will continue “as it is well within the Indian boundary”.

Government sources said the military-to-military conversation has “worked well”.

“The diplomatic conversation is supposed to aid the military channels in disengaging. The conversation between the Joint Secretaries last Friday was also about the guidance of the two leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping,” sources said, and the ambassadors carried the same message to their capitals.

Sources also said that the Army is “fully prepared for a long and permanent deployment if the PLA does not retreat”.

10

EDITORIAL/COMMENTARY

June 12, 2020

It is Our Fight Too It’s about time I admit that people of color have always had to deal with some form of racism in their lives. The struggle to be accepted for who we are has always felt like an uphill battle for too many. I’ve been using these challenging times to reflect upon the Indian American community and how we tend to forget the privilege we are brought up in and that our struggles are nowhere near as dire or deadly as those of our fellow minorities.

With our nation demanding justice for African Americans with the “Black Lives Matter Movement,” it’s important that we as the South Asian community stand with them and join their fight, because it is our fight, too. We must educate ourselves and help break down barriers with them and within our communities. And for those Indian Americans who are not speaking out, the day you yourself encounter racism will be the day your perspective and compassion will change. I, too, was awakened by one such instance.

I’ve focused my career around marketing. As a Field Marketing Manager, I spend most of my time engaging with future clients and cultivating relationships to build new business for the company. I’ve always enjoyed this aspect of my role since it allows me to meet people from different walks of life that have different points of views and ideals than my own. However, I was quick to find out the respect I have for differences is not always reciprocated.

For instance, I was managing a booth at a work event in Las Vegas with my previous manager and sales team. In this professional setting, I was conscious of a particular sales rep of Caucasian descent, who slung around racial slurs every time a person of color came to our booth. Not knowing what to do, I tried to steer clear of this sales rep until I was approached by her. For the next 10 minutes she berated me with questions that rendered me speechless.

“Why don’t you eat beef?” “Why do you dance at weddings?”

“Do you dance to that ‘ding-a-ling’ music?” “Is that like Slumdog Millionaire s**t? “Why don’t you do your Indian dance here so people will come talk to us?”

It still troubles me that I needed to experience targeted racism to open my eyes to the blatant oppression that our African American communities have faced and still face, particularly in life or death circumstances.

She continued to ask questions with a smirk on her face as she saw my discomfort trying to find the words to defend myself and my culture. I had never experienced such targeted racism and ignorance in my life. I left the conversation with her shaking, tears of anger rolling down my face. Fuming with rage and embarrassment, I called my mom to tell her what had just happened. With a sense of empathy in her voice my mom simply responded, “Your dad went through something like this last year, it happens”. My anger continued to rise. How could I be treated like this in a country I consider home? What had I done to deserve it?

That’s when it finally hit me. This was just a glimpse of what the African American community has been facing for centuries in this country. I had the privilege of spending 23 years of my life oblivious to targeted racism. My parents had provided me with a life of financial and emotional support. They came from India in pursuit of a better life and were able to create that for me and my sister.

As our country continues to be divided, there is only hope if we all stand together. Many Indian Americans are finally realizing Asian American privilege — the opportunity to come to America with the hopes of doing better than the countries they originated from — a privilege they are able to flex only because of the struggle and sacrifices of African Americans.

-- Priyam Kulkarni in American Kahani.

One Knee Down Creates Another Crisis

By Bhupinder Singh So, here we go again.

As if over 101,000 deaths from Covid-19 are not astounding and mind numbing. We have to add one more “knee down” death to reignite the national divide of Black and White. Instead of the nation sobering from the devastation of Covid with “knee down” we have reopened the wounds of Black pain.

It is really painful that we are still treating lives differently based on the color of skin. Even the cries of “I can’t breathe” cannot be heard by uniformed personnel trained “to protect and to serve” over the chest of the victim. It is truly the viral capability of video clip that has laid bare the anger and frustration of segment of society being treated this way. The tragedy of this death has become a “trigger moment” for pent up anger and frustration aimed at the law enforcement department.

Those who consider themselves as being the elite, privileged, because of the color of the skin and perpetuate discrimination will do well to answer the question posed

by Kabir to the so called elites of his times in Banaras in these words: “Jau too(n) braahaman brahamanee jaiaa. Tau aan baaT kaahe nahee aaiaa. 2. Tum kat braahaman ham kat soodh. Hum kat lohoo tum kat dhoodh. 3.”

(SGGS, Pg. No. 324)

Translation: If you are indeed a Brahmin (elite), born of a Brahmin mother, then why didn’t you come by some other way? How is it that you are a Brahmin, and I am of a low social status? Does milk flow through your veins and blood in mine?

This is a reality check to dispel the perception of superiority. After all, we all human beings, and have blood flowing through their veins along with similar function-

ing organs and body. The intrinsic design of everybody is same, and color of skin or differences in facial features should not create a tiered totem pole. When organ transplants are performed the race, color or status is not the criteria for the donors or the recipients. Guru Ji has put his stamp on oneness of mankind in these words: “Sabhai ghaT raam bolai raamaa bolai. Raam binaa ko bolai re. 1. Rahaau.”

(SGGS, Pg. No. 988) Translation: Within all hearts, the God speaks, the God speaks.

Who else speaks, other than the God? 1. Pause.

Well Guru Ji is saying it is God only speaking in everyone. It is time for us to ask Dr. Martin Luther King to come back make us realize that. Why is that after the civil rights movement of sixties we find ourselves in this predicament today? We need you again, as there is an unfinished business.

We need you to give voice to your famous words: “I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality.”

It is tragic that after over 50 years of that historical movement, the

Indo American News Founder: Dr. K.L. Sindwani Publisher: Jawahar Malhotra Editor: Pramod Kulkarni Correspondent: Sanchali Basu ®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. 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:713-789-6397, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: www. indoamerican-news.com

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situation today is still of despair, frustration, pain and anger. The frenzy that has gripped the nation is saying it loud and clear that it is time for soul searching again. The laws of the nation were changed by your movement but now we need to change the hearts. It is time to remember that we are all children of one God so that we see more of what is common than what is different. Guru Ji has reinforced this subject in these words: “Sabh meh jot jot hai soi.”

(SGGS, Pg. No. 13) Translation: Amongst all is the Light-You are that Light.

Because we are all from Your Light, You are our father: “Ek pitaa ekas ke ham baarik too meraa gur haiee.”

(SGGS, Pg. No. 611) Translation: The One God is our father; we are the children of the One God. You are our Master (Guru).

Today in Houston where you grew up George, we are mourning for you, Minneapolis is mourning for you and so is the whole country and the world. We are all mourning so that we can make the world a better place to live – free from hate and discrimination. It is only to provide that healing touch we are asking Dr. King to comeback and lead us again to his “dream”.

SUDOKU/RECIPE Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

Send us the correct answer before June 17, 2020.

Email us at indoamericannews@yahoo.com. Please send us your solved Sudoku for your name to be published.

Solution Next Week

Last Week’s SUDOKU Solution

Last Week’s SUDOKU Winners Sharmila Moharir Farokh Billimoria

June12, 2020

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Mama’s Punjabi Recipes

Some Indian comfort foods are universal as they are simple, taste good and are easy to make, like kadhi. Kadhi is also a great dish to eat with plain rice on a rainy, cold winter day like we have during this time of the year.

This is a repeat of a recipe but so appropriate for the Holidays ahead while watching football or movies at home.

PUNJABI BESAN DI KADHI (CHICKPEA FLOUR CURRY)

Kadhi is a dish that is made all over India with many variations.

In some parts of India, they throw minced vegetables in the curry and eat it with boiled rice. Rajasthani and Gujurati kadhi is usually thinner and has a sweet taste. Sindhi kadhi uses imbli (tamarind pulp) to give it the sour taste.

The traditional Punjabi style kadhi is made with thick besan curry and has fried vegetable pakoras (fried fritters) in it with some yogurt to give it a sour taste. It is usually eaten with tandoori roti, paranthas and sometimes with rice.

Besan (roasted gram flour or garbanzo flour or chickpea flour) is a flour that is commonly used all over India to make pakoras, one of the most favorite and easy to make snacks which can be found at almost every street corner halwai or cooking vendor. The flour, when mixed with a few spices, adds zest as batter for vegetables and it is just a delight to eat hot pakoras – never mind that they are fried! Pakoras are, after all, Indian comfort food.

Besan is high in carbohydrates and somewhat high in protein but has no gluten, which makes it unsuitable for those trying to lose weight (especially when it is fried). Besan has many uses in cooking. You can make boondi (besan fried droplets) to put in dahi (yogurt) or to make laddus (sweet balls) – either fried dripped in syrup or those made of roasted, sweetened flour - or simply besan ki barfi (sweetened flat cake) or pooda (a flat bread) Punjabi kadhi tastes best when made with plain pakoras instead of those stuffed with vegetables in them Ingredients: • 2.5 cups besan (chickpea flour) • 1.5 cups of plain dahi (yogurt) • 3.5 cups of water • 1 tsp methi danna (funugreek seed) • A dash of amchoor (mango powder) if desired • Spices: namak (salt), mirch (red pepper), haldi (turmeric) and sukha dhania powder (dried coriander seed powder) Directions: 1. Mix 1.5 cups of besan, 1 cup yogurt and 3 cups of water well and keep to the side for 10 minutes.

2. Mix the rest of the ingredients separately to make the pakoras in step 3. Adjust quantities if you

want more pakoras.

3. Heat the oil in a karahi (wok) and pour small portions of the mixture in lumps in order to make the pakoras. The lumps will fluff up and when the pakoras are brown, take them out and place on a paper towel to soak the oil out.

4. In a saucepan, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and add the haldi, mirch and methi dana and stir till they are roasted. Add the mixture from step 1. Stir continuously taking care that the mixture does not bubble and spit out. If it does, then add a little cold water. Make sure the kadhi is not thin, but remember that after it cools down, the curry will thicken.

5. Add the salt to taste and bring to boil the mixture for 10 minutes and then reduce the heat to simmer. Be careful not to add too much salt because if the yogurt is a bit sour then you will not need much salt. If you like, add a little amchoor and you could almost do without the salt.

6. Add the pakoras to the curry and

let them soak for at least 20 minutes. The pakoras will be softer the longer they are in the mixture.

Let the mixture simmer over low heat and stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick to the pan. If it starts to stick then remove from heat.

7. Serve with hot roti or paranthas or steaming rice and pickle.

Shakuntla Malhotra is a skilled cook of Punjabi dishes made in the old-fashioned 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 early-nineties, she continues to cook daily and agreed to share her delectable Punjabi recipes for future generations.

MAMA’S TIP O F THE

WEEK FOR A SORE BAC K , U SE A HOT WATER BOT TLE WRAPPED IN In the winter mon A BAG ths, it is

not unco colds or the flu. Bu t what is even mormmon to come down with back muscles thro e common ones. The cold w ugh some exertion, sometimesis pulling the become tense – eseather makes the back muscles coeven minor pecially if you aren nt – and then a slig ’t dressed warmlyract and ht m ov enough em en t can lead to excr pain that doesn’t go uciating back aw ay so on .

Apart from using balms and analge applied to the back sic cream You can use a sim helps a lot, especially if it is dos,nea little heat in India for 60 ple rubber hot water bottle like overnight. ping bag and tierupees (or 65 cents). Wrap it in a the ones sold your list to buy th the straps so it won’t slip out. cotton shopd put it on $15 each in local em on your next trip to India, asAn they are over stores here!

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12

June 12, 2020

हमारी कम्युनिटी के लिए 2020 की जिगणिा पूरी करें। जनगणना 2020 के तहत अमेरिका में िहने वाले हि व्यक्ति की गगनती की जाएगी। आज ही जनगणना पूिी किें औि सिकाि को अगले दस वर्षों तक यह सुगनश्चित किने में मदद किें, गक अिबो डॉलि की सिकािी फ़ंडडंग सवास्य केंद्र, आपातकालीन सेवाओं औि क्िक्ा जैसे क्ेत्रों में गवतरित की जाए। जिगणिा का फ़ॉम्म ऑि​िाइि अथवा डाक द्ारा पूरा करें। फ़ॉम्म पूरा करिे की जािकारी इस वेबसाइट पर प्ाप्त करें: 2020CENSUS.GOV/hi

2020CENSUS.GOV/hi इस सेवा का भुगतान यू.एस. जनगणना बयूिो (U.S. Census Bureau) द्ािा गकया गया है।

Indo-American News • Friday, JUNE 12, 2020 • www.indoamerican-news.com