Friday, January 26, 2024 | Vol. 43, No. 4
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January 26, 2024
Indo American News
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Published weekly from Houston, TX
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Houston Hindus Join the World in Celebrating the Consecration of Sri Ram Idol in Ayodhya P6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi consecrates the Ram Lalla idol at the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya (left). Children create a tableau of Ramayan at the celebration hosted by the Hindus of Greater Houston on Sunday, January 21 at the Gujarati Samaj of Houston (GSH) auditorium.
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WEDDINGS, SPECIAL EVENTS, TENTED EVENTS, OUTDOOR COURTYARD
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Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024• www.indoamerican-news.com
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HOUSTON
January 26, 2024
Houston Hindus Join the World in Celebrating the Consecration of Sri Ram Idol in Ayodhya
Priests from various Temples of Houston. Back row left to right b1 - Acharya Bramdeo - Arya Samaj Greater Houston , b2 - Pandit Bhawani S Shastri - Hindu Worship Society Temple, b3 - Tarun Krishna Das - Shri Govindaji Gaudiya math (SGGM) , b4 - Bhakti Vedant Van Maharaj - Shri Govindaji Gaudiya math (SGGM), b5 - Veda Raman - Meenakshi Temple Society (MTS), b6 - Sridhar Raghavan - Meenakshi Temple Society (MTS), b7 - Laxman Rajgor - Vallabh Priti Seva Samaj (VPSS), b8 - Janardhana Chalamacharla - Shirdi Sai Jalaram Mandir, b9 - Samani Jigyasa Pragya - Jain Vishwa Bharati (JVB) Preksha Meditation Center , b10 - Samani Madhur Pragya - Jain Vishwa Bharati (JVB) Preksha Meditation Center b11 - Hashmukhbhai Pandya - Vadtal Dham Houston b12 - Muralidharbhat Kodli - Sri Sharadamba Temple, b13 - Dilip Shastri - Shree Pashupati Nath Temple, b14 - Vijaya Dasa - International, Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) , b15 - Sri Mayurbhai Rao - Center for Gayatri Consciousness. Front row left to right f1 - Jaya Hari Dasa - International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), f2 - Sooraj Mangathaya - Sri Guruvayurappan Temple, f3 - Madhusudan Dasa - Shri Govindaji Gaudiya math (SGGM), f4 - Patita Pavana Dasa - International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), f5 - Krsnapriya Dasi - Shri Govindaji Gaudiya math (SGGM), f6 - Partha Sarathi Chatterjee - Houston Durga Bari Society, f7 - Sriram Ramanujam - Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Temple Manvel, f8 - Ajit Purohit - Independent, f9 - Madammohan Patel - Vadtal , Dham Houston f10 Abhay Dasa - International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON)
Houston: In a jubilant celebration by Hindus of Greater Houston bringing faith, culture, and the triumphant return of Shri Ram to his home after 500 years. Over 1500 devotees gathered in Houston for the Sri Ram Prana Pratishtha Mahotsav on a cold windy day. The event, organized in view of the Prana Pratishtha of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya brought together the community in joyous festivities. The evening commenced with the divine Shankh Nadh (sounding of the conch shell), by a priest, setting the sacred tone for the event. A vibrant energy with a highpowered Dhol Tasha and Band performances commenced the procession by the Houston Maharashtra Mandal. This lead the way for the “Beautifully adorned Murti of Shri Ram on the chariot, that was brought from Sri. Meenakshi Temple Society in Pearland. With the Chanting of “Jai Sri Ram” the procession of over 500 people began moving to the front entrance of the hall, as the deities were brought inside the hall and young children dressed as Ram Parivar were leading the deities to the altar, with “Jai Shri Ram” chanting by all inside the Hall. Somansh Agarwal as the Emcee introduced the chanting of Vedic Mantras and Agastya Gurukulam. The youth were particularly engaged, fostering a connection with heritage, on three key topics: “Lord Ram, Epitome of righteousness”, “Homecoming of Lord Ram after 500 years”, and “Relevance of Ram & Ramayana in our life”. HGH welcomed all the Houston area Hindu Temple priests and 30 of them were honored. Representatives from 16 countries where the Ramayana is a part of their tradition, emphasizing that Lord Ram’s influence transcends borders. Houston is very fortunate to have very special prominent leaders in the community, who are ardent devotees, “Ram Bhaktas”, who are dedicated to serve the community and to contribute to furthering the message of Lord Ram and the Rama Janmabhumi movement. Beth Kulkarni, Suresh Patel, Vijay Pallod, Surya Sahoo, Somansh Agarwal and Dr.Narasimham Dasika and Dr. Kusum Vyas. Hindus of greater Houston set up a Billboard on the major Freeway intersection. The Historic Houston Car Rally organizers were recognized. The cultural program highlights were “Angadh Prasangh”, skit by Houston BAPS Mandir members. The skit was a chosen from an episode in Ramayan. The grand cultural program of the evening was presented by Abhinaya School of Arts, students who performed “Sita Swayamvar”. Choreography by Indrani Parthasarathy, Artistic Director. The dance culminated with the traditional wedding song with auspicious ending, which was grand finale program of the Hindus of Greater Houston event, “Sita Kalyana Vaibhogame” that was followed by Maha Aarthi. Also noteworthy to mention was the breathtaking Rangoli by Sangita Bhutada, drawing admiration and attracting a crowd eager to capture the intricate art in their pictures. The Shree Ram Photo Booth witnessed a constant stream of attendees capturing moments with their favorite deity was added attraction. There were very interesting artistic exhibits provided by VHPA that displayed the story of Ram. The MahaAarti, with everyone holding lighted candles in a dimmed hall, and chanting Sanskrit verses, invoking Lord Ram, provided a spiritual and enchanting culmination to an incredible event.
Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
COMMUNITY
January 26, 2024 “The Dawn of a New Era”
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PM Narendra Modi Consecrates Ramjanmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya Ayodhya: Following the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from Ayodhya on Monday, marking what he called “the dawn of a new era”. Modi’s address, which hinged on the idea of faith, turned into a launch pad for his Lok Sabha campaign for a united effort in nation-building. As he appealed to the masses calling it a historic day for everyone in this country, the prime minister said, “Ram sirf hamare nahi hai. Ram to sabke hai (Ram does not belong to only us, but everyone).” He projected Ram Temple as a symbol of national consciousness, and mentioned how “even the first draft of the Constitution had a mention of Ram”. Modi said this occasion is not of mere triumph but of humility. The Ram Temple will be witness to the dawn of a prosperous and developed India, he said. Over the past few years, there has been a rise in BJP’s attempts to woo Dalit and Adivasi voters in their election campaigns. Interestingly, the speech comes just a couple of months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and several critics have said that with Ram Mandir, BJP is once again trying to address Dalit and Adivasi communities. Modi made references to characters from Ramayana to stress how every Indian has much to learn from them. Mentioning the character of Shabri, the Adivasi
mother, Modi cited how she used to say, ‘Ram will come’ and said that the same faith is inherent in Indians. Meanwhile, mentioning Nishad Raj–considered to be lower caste–Modi highlighted his friendship with Ram and how he helped Ram and Sita to cross Ganga in his boat. He further said that even smaller characters in Ramayana, like the squirrel, played a significant role in the construction of Ram Setu, reaffirming the idea of unity in nation-building. These citations also come in the backdrop of an ongoing debate
around the selection of a black idol for Ram Lalla at the temple, which, coupled with other efforts like Modi’s recent visit to the OBC household of Meera Manjhi, has been seen as the BJP’s repeated attempts to appeal to the marginalised communities. This also brings to focus the historical debate between Mahatma Gandhi and Dr BR Ambedkar at the Round Table Conference in 1931, when Gandhi had opposed the idea of Dalits, or any other section within the Hindu community getting a separate electoral
representation. “That would be politically suicidal,” he had told Ambedkar. Gandhi, who became the symbol of uniting the Hindus under one umbrella, became the reason, later, that Jaipal Singh Munda failed to get a separate constitutional recognition of Adivasi people. The Dalit and Adivasi communities have for long fought for their right to a separate electorate, but the 1990s saw the birth of a new politics on the lines of social justice versus communalism – Mandal versus Kamandal politics – reinstating the idea of the united
Hindu fold, to bring the Dalits and Adivasis under the same fold. This very idea became the basis on which the Ram Temple was created. In his speech, Modi held that the country is united by a devotion to Lord Ram. He also referred to the many temples he visited in South India. “I got the opportunity to travel from “Sagar” (in this context, the Indian Ocean) to Saryu (the river in Ayodhya). From Sagar to Saryu, the same festive spirit of Ram’s name is visible everywhere,” he said, in an apparent outreach to the areas in South India where the BJP has not been able to gain ground so far. At noon, PM Modi broke his 11-day fast after taking part in the consecration ceremony inside the sanctum sanctorum of the grand Ram Temple made possible by a historic Supreme Court judgment in 2019 on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit. The temple, built in the traditional Nagara style of architecture, spans 380 feet in length (east-west), 250 feet in width and 161 feet in height. It is supported by 392 pillars and has 44 doors. Even as critics accused Modi of a hurried opening to woo the voters, the grandeur and widespread celebration of the inauguration of Ram Temple, have raised hopes for the BJP that it will catapult into a record third successive term for the prime minister -- Outlook India
Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH) Board of Directors and Board of Advisors
Standing in the back row Board of Advisors: Girish Naik Event Chair, Thara Narsimhan (HGH President), Narsimha Dasika, Ashvin Dave, Jugal Malani, Ramesh Bhutada, Rasesh Dalal (Chairman BOA), Dr. Randeep Suneja, Suresh Patel, G N Prasad (Vice Chair BOA), Rachana Shah (BOD). Sitting in the front row: Board of directors: Hemant Jadhav, Bijay Dixit, Shital Rathi, Parathasarathy Krishnaswamy, Somansh Agarwal, Vinod Mantri, Bhagwan Bhutada, Ipshit Chopra (Youth co-ordinator), Vijay Pallod. Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024• www.indoamerican-news.com
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HOUSTON
January 26, 2024
HGH Honors Temple Priests, Interfaith Leaders; HMM Dhol-Tasha Inpires
Interfaith Leaders: 1. Dr Desika Narasimha, President from SVBF South, 2. Dr Ghasem Bayat, Baha’i Faith, 3. Shri Vijay Das from ISKCON, 4. Jan Pappert from Jewish community of Beth Yeshurun, 5. Dr Frank Parigi, Representative of Eminence Gala Tulku Rinpoche, Buddhist community, 6. Tasnim Vadva, President of Indian Muslims Association of Greater Houston, 7. Bhupender Singh, Sikh community from Gudwara Sahib of Southwest, 8. Nazneen Khumbatta from Zoroastrian Association of Houston, The procession started with Houston Maharashtra Mandal’s dhol-tasha troupe. The 20-dhol group also performed on the stage (above) with high energy that raptured the devotees. {not pictures) Joyesh Porwal.
Sangita Bhutada created the Rangoli depicting Sri Ram.
Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
DIASPORA
January 26, 2024
BAPS Mandirs Celebrate Inauguration of Sri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya
The murtris of Bhagwan Shri Ram are welcomed to the assembly on a decorated Swamis and guests performing the aarti of Bhagwan Shri Ram palanquin
Houston: On the occasion of the historic Sri Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya, devotees and well-wishers of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in North America, alongside the global Hindu community, came together in joyous celebration. This auspicious event marked the culmination of an extraordinary journey spanning over five centuries, a testament to the sacrifices and unwavering faith of numerous swamis, mahants, acharyas, and devoted individuals. Guided by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS organized devotional programs in its 1,500 mandirs and 21,000 Satsang communities worldwide. The celebration united BAPS devotees worldwide, who adorned their homes and places of worship with diyas
and lamps, similar to Diwali. The inauguration ceremony was broadcast live from Ayodhya, graced by the esteemed presence of Shri Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. The construction of the Shri Ram Mandir has been a journey defined by hardships, tribulations, penance, and faith. Over the years, efforts of visionary leaders as well as revered swamis and mahants, have played a pivotal role in advancing the cause of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir. Together with the aspirations of spiritual leaders, BAPS has supported the construction of the Mandir. His Holiness Yogiji Maharaj, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj participated in
the continuous chanting, known as akhand dhun, in Ayodhya as part of the prayers for the construction of the Shri Ram Mandir in 1953, 1956, and 1969. In a historic moment in 1989, Pramukh Swami Maharaj performed the first-ever puja of the Shri Ram Shila (brick) to be laid in the mandir’s foundation, an act that resonates through the annals of history. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Houston, in addition to other BAPS Mandirs across North America, held a special assembly to celebrate the historic inauguration and to share the universal messages of Bhagwan Shri Ram. Indian American Businessman and Philanthropists Ramesh Bhutada was one of many invited guests to address the assembly. “Bhag-
wan Ram was an ideal man, ideal brother and member of an ideal family,” said Mr. Bhutada. “I pray we take at least something from Ram’s life to imbibe into our own.” In the spirit of joy and festivity, BAPS devotees, worldwide, adorned their homes with flowers and shared sweets, displaying their love and reverence for Bhagwan Shri Ram. Devotees from across the globe connected to the event through a webcast, experiencing the divine inauguration in the comfort of their homes. The event transcended geographical boundaries, showcasing the unifying power of devotion. Furthermore, HH Mahant Swami Maharaj also joined in the celebrations virtually from Gujarat,
Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024• www.indoamerican-news.com
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India. Senior Swamis from BAPS accepted the invitation on Mahant Swami Maharaj’s behalf and participated in the puja and celebrations in Ayodhya. About BAPS The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a spiritual, volunteerdriven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service. Its worldwide network of 3,800 centers supports these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is free of addictions as well as morally, ethically, and spiritually pure. For more details, please visit www.baps.org.
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HOUSTON
January 26, 2024
500K Visitors and Counting: At Sri Ram Temple, A Rush for ‘First Darshan’ first darshan should be ours),” she said.
By Maulshree Seth Ayodhya woke up on Tuesday morning to a sea of people at the gates of the Ram temple, with queues beginning to form as early as 3 am. The larger than anticipated crowd prompted the administration to hold urgent meetings and the Chief Minister to personally pay a visit. By evening, around 5 lakh people had paid obeisance to the Ram idol, consecrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi a day earlier. Officials said the final figure would be higher. Around 8,000 security personnel have been deployed to manage the rush. On Day 1, Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad and Director General (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar were also at the temple to oversee the crowd management. Both could be seen trying to ensure a smooth flow of pilgrims. At 4.40 pm, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reached the temple town. He first took an aerial review of the crowd from a helicopter and then reached the temple to take stock. Those present at the temple gates said the CM had made a personal appeal to the crowd: “Darshan ke liye na harbarayen. Bheed normal hone ke baad Ayodhya aayein (do not be in a rush to pay obeisance. Let the crowd become normal and then come to Ayodhya).” The CM also called senior police and administrative officers and held a review of crowd management efforts on the premises. Later, Director General of Police Vijay Kumar said, “A sys-
Want to Visit Ayodhya?
tem is being put in place to have a holding area for the crowd. So, if 50,000 people come at a time, they can be stopped at different entry points and at different holding areas and can move ahead for darshan slowly.” People had started gathering at the Ram Janmabhoomi Path, which leads to the temple, as early as 3 am. These included both locals, who called themselves “Ayodhya vasi”, and pilgrims from far and wide. With little knowledge of what is and isn’t allowed inside, pilgrims from other states and districts carried with them huge bags, walking on foot towards the temple
gates since vehicles were stopped six kilometres away. With heavy luggage on their heads, many said they wanted to be the first ones to offer prayers. By 6 am, the 566-metre-long Ram Janmabhoomi Path was packed, as pilgrims tried to push their way inside. Security forces tried telling them they cannot enter with luggage or mobile phones, but not everyone paid heed. Officials said the temple gates are scheduled to close at 7 pm. “Darshan ho gaya,” said Bansi Dhar Mahanti, who had come from Odisha with his family of 10 and had been staying in Ayodhya for the last eight days. “Bohot bheed
thi (it was very crowded). I kept my phone with my wife and entered. Many people just abandoned their bags outside,” he said. The family reached the temple gates around 2.45 am and could have a glimpse of the new idol around 7 am. Poonam (42), part of a group of 25 from Bihar, arrived in Ayodhya six days ago and stayed in an ashram. They queued up around 6 am and managed to enter around 9 am. Also in the crowd outside was 21-year-old Kirti, who stood out because she was not lugging any belongings. “Ayodhya vasi hain. Pehla darshan humara hona chahiye (we are from Ayodhya; the
Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
The Ram Temple will remain open for the public between 7 am and 11 am, and between 2 pm and 7 pm, according to the official website of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra. People can book slots to attend the morning aarti (Jagaran/Shringar), which will take place at 6:30 am, a day in advance, depending upon availability. People can book their slots to attend the evening aarti (Sandhya) which will take place at 7:30 pm, a day in advance, depending upon availability. According to the website, people are required to reach the camp office at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi at least 30 minutes before the aarti starts with a valid government ID proof to avail aarti passes. There is no mandated dress code for the public. Entry to all is permitted without any restrictions Belongings such as mobile phones and bags are not allowed inside the temple. By Air The nearest airport to Ayodhya is Maharishi Valmiki International Airport By Train Faizabad and Ayodhya are the two major railway stations in the district. By Road Services of Uttar Pradesh Transport Corporation buses are available regularly. Buses are available from Lucknow, Delhi and Gorakhpur. -- Indian Express
HOUSTON
January 26, 2024
Blending Tradition and Spirituality
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Houston Maharashtra Mandal’s Makar Sankrant 2024: A Resounding Success Houston: In a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition, the Houston Maharashtra Mandal successfully organized its Makar Sankrant event on January 20, 2024. With a theme centered around “Nath,” the event attracted over 1000 enthusiastic members, creating a lively atmosphere filled with traditional rituals like haldi-kunku, vaan and Bor-Nahan, along with kite flying, kids games and fashion show. Authentic Maharashtrian adornments including Maharashtrian-style mangalsutra, bracelets, and special earrings sourced directly from Maharashtra created a truly immersive experience for attendees. The highlight of the event was a diverse array of stalls offering authentic Marathi delicacies. Attendees indulged in a gastronomic journey through various food stalls savoring delights like Gul Poli, Vada Pav, Kolhapuri Misal, Pani-Puri, etc. The event also featured commercial stalls for clothing, jewelry, and kitchen household items, providing a delightful shopping experience for everyone. As part of HMM’s commitment to cultural preservation, the event also included a captivating performance based on ‘Ramayana’ for the inauguration ceremony of Lord Rama’s idol in Ayodhya. The dance depicted key moments from Ramayana, weaving a visual tapestry that resonated with the spiritual significance of the occasion. The presence of Lord Ram, accompanied by Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman, graced the stage, infusing the entire auditorium with divine energy and leaving everyone mesmerized. This event further solidifies the Houston Maharashtra Mandal’s dedication to bringing Indian tra-
ditions to the forefront, creating memorable and spiritually enriching experiences for communities both locally and beyond. This event also stands as a testament to HMM’s ability to weave cultural narratives into contemporary celebrations, fostering a deep connection with timeless traditions. For the most current information, you can follow Houston Maharashtra Mandal on their social media platforms: Website: www. houstonmaharashtramandal.org, Facebook: HMaharashtraManda, Instagram: houstonmaharashtramandal, WhatsApp: Join the WhatsApp group for the most current updates.
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OBITUARY
January 26, 2024
Sarojini R. Badachhape: 1936-2024
Houston: Sarojini R. Badachhape was born as Sindhu Ramdas Navgale on June 3, 1936 in Bhusaval, Maharashtra, India. She married Ramchandra B. Badachhape, Ph.D. at an early age. She had to discontinue her college education as the couple started their family with daughter Maya and son Abhay. Soon they migrated to the United States. They were the pioneer Marathi Indian family in Houston and hosted all the new Marathi immigrants to make them comfortable in this country. Saroj and Ram welcomed many new Indian families by inviting them into their home for a meal and always made the people feel welcome. Saroj was a great cook and loved to cook for family and friends. Along with Ram and a few friends, they initiated the formation of the Houston Maharashtra Mandal in 1976. Saroj was one of the first presidents of HMM. At another time, when no one wanted to take the responsibility, Saroj came forward to become president and saved the organization. In 1993, Saroj supported Ram to propose the 1995 Bruhan Maharashtra Mandal convention in Houston. Saroj was the successful owner of A to Z Travels with Ram. Both of them enjoyed traveling. She had many hobbies, includ-
ing gardening, playing bridge, visiting casinos, and making pottery. Saroj shared her pottery skills with local children during their summer vacations. For the last year and half, Saroj and Ram have been staying at a Hospice Care Center due to health issues. Saroj passed away on January 17, 2024. She was preceded in death by her son Abhaya (Ajay) R. Badachhape in 2021, along with three sisters. A private cremation ceremony was held on Saturday, January 20. On June 8, a larger celebration of life will be held in Houston. Memorials can be made to Meenakshi Temple in Pearland or the general scholarship fund at Rice University. Saroj is survived by her husband of over 66 years Ram, her brother Dhananjay Navgale of Jalgaon, Maharashtra; sister Asha of Mumbai, daughter Dr. Maya B. Bledsoe and spouse Murff F. Bledsoe, of Austin, daughter-in-law Sutapa Sur of Sugar Land, grandchildren Dr. Andrew A. S. Badachhape, and spouse Rebecca C. Searle of Houston, Nathan Lonsdale Bledsoe and spouse Sarah of Houston, Grace B. Barr and spouse John of Logan, Utah and great grandson Holden Murff Barr.
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Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news
SPORTS
January 26, 2024
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Sumit Nagal Out of Australian Open after Gallant Effort vs. China’s Shang Melbourne: Sumit Nagal’s historic run at this year’s Australian Open has come to an end after a second-round defeat to Shang Juncheng on Thursday. After defeating Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik on Tuesday, Nagal became the first Indian man to win a match at the Australian Open in 11 years, pocketing $118,000 ($180,000 Australian dollars) in the process. The victory also made him the first Indian man to defeat a seeded player in the singles draw of a grand slam for 35 years. However, Nagal couldn’t continue his memorable journey at Melbourne Park, falling in four sets – 6-2 3-6 5-7 4-6 – to Shang. At one point last year, tennis player Nagal had less than $1,000 in his bank account. Struggling to gain entry to tournaments, he
was facing a battle to keep afloat his career as India’s top-ranked player.
But at the start of 2024, the outlook is far more positive and his bank balance is all the better for it.
Only four Indian tennis players have ever won a grand slam title and all of them have been in doubles. The nation of more than 1.4 billion people has less pedigree when it comes to singles, but Nagal, who has a careerhigh ranking of 122 in the world, wants to see more Indians competing at the top of the sport. “There was a time where we had a lot of singles players playing in the slams,” he said. “I feel like we are missing quite a bit in the
last few years, and my goal is to change that in the next years. When I stop tennis, whenever I stop tennis, I hope I can have an impact on the country where we can change the system and have people playing in the singles draw as well.” With many singles players choosing to live abroad – Nagal is based in Germany – he wants to see more tournaments, more coaches, and better facilities in India, a country in which cricket dominates the sporting landscape. For Nagal, it was a disappointing end to what had been a historic campaign. The right-hander from Jhajjar, Haryana, seemed to be giving it his all but his opponent simply had too much firepower. Shang made 52 unforced errors but kept going for his shots and also hit 55 winners.
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ENTERTAINMENT
January 26, 2024
‘Main Atal Hoon’: A Remarkable Life Journey
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Local help with your Medicare questions.
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replica, especially in long shots, Raja Rameshkumar Sevak, as LK Advani, looks extraordinarily similar to the senior leader. Other political figures, such as Sushma Swaraj (Gauri Sukhtanker) and Arun Jaitley (Yogendra Patwal), have also been portrayed perfectly. Vajpayee’s relationship with his father, Krishna Bihari Vajpayee (Piyush Mishra), is heartwarming and even elicits a few chuckles. The depiction of his equation with his classmate and long-time friend Rajkumari Kaul, nee Haksar (Ekta Kaul), is pleasant. Although the movie touches upon how Vajpayee met his adopted daughter, Namita Bhattacharya (Kaul), their relationship could have been elaborated. The film’s narrative, treatment, and stellar portrayal by Pankaj Tripathi will leave you enamoured. Watch this movie that will fill you with admiration for one of the most significant political figures in India.-- Times of India
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Story: The biopic follows the life and times of the former Prime Minister of India, Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It also chronicles the various facets of his personality and the country’s achievements under his leadership. Review: Making a biopic on a stalwart like the 10th Prime Minister of India, Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is no mean feat. While the creators must weave a cohesive narrative from an exhaustive chronicle, the actor must portray the role befittingly. Main Atal Hoon stands out in both regards. Pankaj Tripathi delivers a pitch-perfect performance as Vajpayee, a poet, politician, statesman, and gentleman. Besides the mannerisms and speech, the actor perfectly nails the nuances of his personality. On the other hand, award-winning director-writer Ravi Jadhav (Natrang, Taali, etc.) and co-writer Rishi Virmani come up with aces in chronicling the life and times of one of the most admired figures in India. Inspired by Sarang Darshane’s book, Atalji: Kavihridayache Rashtranetyachi Charitkahani, the movie succinctly covers Vajpayee’s journey from being a freedom fighter to a revered leader. The narrative summarises all the prominent influences, pivotal events, and important achievements under his leadership. From the Kargil War, the bus yatra from InKaushika Shah dia to Pakistan, and the Pokhran Nuclear Test, Licensed Sales Agent many crucial episodes have been depicted 832-282-3515, TTY 711 through archival footage, making the narrative more engaging and authentic. However, the audience may need Y0066_23SPRJ55188_C knowledge of Indian
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politics to understand a few parts of the movie. Although a narrator sets the context regularly, it would have helped to have some background in these portions. The film initially moves at a steady pace but slows intermittently until the interval. It picks up its speed again in the second half when the narrative shifts towards the peak of his days as a politico. Besides its writing and direction, the biopic boasts stellar cinematography by Lawrence Alex Dcunha. The movie is a visual treat, from silhouettes to camerawork enhancing important scenes. Salim-Sulaiman, Payal Dev, Kailash Kher, and Amritraj provide a soundtrack that evokes inspiration, and Monty Sharma’s background score makes the narrative more powerful. The use of Vajpayee’s poetry recitation and lyrics in songs also add to the appeal. While Pankaj Tripathi shines as Vajpayee and looks like his
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By Dhaval Roy
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Solution Next Week
12 January 26, 2024
Indo-American News • Friday, january 26, 2024 • www.indoamerican-news