11_vol4_epaper

Diaspora 8

India Newswire 25

Humor 28

Spiritual Awareness 30

The South Asian Times Excellence In Journalism

NEW YORK EDITION Vol. 4 | No.11 | July 2 - 8, 2011 | 60 Cents

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Dr Chad Gehani to lead NY State Dental Association

Acharya Lokesh Muni on ‘Peace Tour’ of USA

IIFA Awards: When Toronto was bowled over

Sania-Elena reach Wimbledon Ladies’ doubles semis

Tristate Community, Page 5

National Community, Page 7

IIFA Special, Pages 10-24

Sports, Page 27

IIFA Weekend: Bolly-wooed in Toronto

Toronto will remember for a long time IIFA 2011’s glitz and glamor and passion for Bollywood. The scintillating awards ceremony last Saturday saw the biggest Bollystars including Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma and Zayed Khan.

The South Asian Times was invited by OntarioTourism Dept, Govt. of Canada to cover IIFA 2011 at Toronto.

We are proud to present a 16-page pullout on the mega event in this issue.

US seeks to destroy Al Qaeda’s core in Pakistan Washington: The US has chalked out a counter - terror strategy to destroy Al Qaeda, for which it needs to dismantle its core in the tribal regions of Pakistan and prevent its ability to reestablish a safe haven in the Pakistan-Afghanistan border region, a senior US official has said.

“We aim to render the heart of Al Qaeda incapable of launching attacks against our homeland, our citizens, or our allies, as well as preventing the group from inspiring its affiliates and adherents to do so,” John Brennan, assistant to the President for Homeland Security, said Wednesday.

“And we seek nothing less than the utter destruction of this evil that calls itself Al Qaeda,” he said expanding on the White

House counter terrorism strategy at the John Hopkins University Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies.

Acknowledging that US’ “relationship with Pakistan is not without tension or frustration”, he said, “We are now working with our Pakistani partners to overcome differences and continue our efforts against our common enemies.”

“It is essential that we do so.

As frustrating as this relationship can sometimes be, Pakistan has been critical to many of our most significant successes against Al Qaeda,” he said explaining why US must continue its cooperation with Pakistan.

Counter - terror continued on page 4

Indian community backs CG sued by maid

Popular Bollywood singer Shaan gave spellbinding concerts in New Jersey and New York last weekend.

See photos and report on page 9.

New York: Members of the Indian-American community in New York have expressed their support for Indian Consul General Prabhu Dayal, who is accused of treating a former domestic help as a slave and making sexual advances.

Santosh Bhardwaj, 45, has accused Dayal of paying her $300 a month, making her sleep in a storage closet and asking her for massage. Dayal has dismissed the charges as “complete nonsense”.

Indian-American community members who gathered at the City Hall Sunday expressed their disbelief at the charges against Dayal. ”We know Prabhu Dayal from inside and outside,” said Ramesh Patel, Chairman, Federation of Indian Asso-

ciations (FIA)-NY-NJ-CT. “Lady (Bhardwaj) you better pack and go back to India”.

In fact, Dayal has sought Bhardwaj’s removal from the country because she has overstayed her visa. “I formally request that removal proceedings be commenced against Santosh Bharadwaj,” Ravi Batra, Amb. Dayal’s lawyer, wrote in a letter to Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security, and Eric M Holder, Attorney General of the US. “As Ms Bhardwaj voluntarily abandoned the employ of the Consul General and the Consulate on January 28, 2010 she is within our borders in violation of her non-immigrant status and conditions of entry into the US”, the letter said.

P. Dayal continued on page 4

Tristate Community TheSouthAsianTimes.info

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July 2-8, 2011

Nikki Haley is India Abroad Person of the Year 2010 New York: Nimrata 'Nikki' Randhawa Haley, who last year conquered the odds to be elected South Carolina's first woman and first Indian-American governor, was on Friday conferred the India Abroad Person of the Year Award 2010, at a glittering presentation ceremony here.

Governor Haley was chosen for making history, for becoming the face of the New South and secondgeneration Indian Americans.

The event saw about 400 of the biggest names in the Indian-American community come together at a special venue -- The Pierre, a Taj Hotel.

Since its inception in 2002, the awards presented by India Abroad -- owned by Rediff.com-- – have become the most coveted community honor in the country. Celebrating achievements across a wide spectrum, this year, 14 awards were presented in seven categories.

The event kicked off with India Abroad Publisher and Rediff.com Chairman and CEO Ajit Balakrishnan addressing how things had changed for the Indian-American community in the four decades of India Abroad's existence, and how the IAPOY Awards had grown from one awardee in 2002 to 14 this year to reflect the community's evolution and success.

The first award, the India Abroad Special Award for Achievement 2010, was presented to Vijay Balse, who won the American television quiz show Jeopardy's Tournament of Champions and $250,000; Aadith Moorthy, winner of the National Geography Bee 2010; and Anamika Veeramani, winner of the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee 2010.

Foursquare Co-founder Naveen Selvadurai won the India Abroad Face of the Future Award 2010, an award that recognizes young achievers with immense promise.

The India Abroad Publisher's Special Award for Excellence 2010 went to Columbia Business School professor and author Dr Sheena Iyengar, Grammy-nominated jazz musician Dr Vijay Iyer and Pulitzer winning author Dr Siddhartha Mukherjee The Emperor of All Maladies, A Biography of Cancer.

Dr Iyengar, who is blind, redefined the concept of choice with her book The Art of Choosing. The book was among the most well reviewed non-fiction books last year.

The inaugural India Abroad Friend of India Award went to Dr Strobe Talbott, the president of the Brookings Institution, who set the tone for the present-day relationship between the US and India.

Actress and cook book writer Madhur Jaffrey (center), winner of the India Abroad Award for Lifetime Achievement 2010, with legendary director James Ivory, left, and top chef Floyd Cardoz who presented her the Award.

Nobel Laureate Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, himself the India Abroad Person of the Year 2009, flew in from the University of Cambridge especially for the event. Other luminaries present included Ambassador Meera Shankar, Minister for Heavy Industries Praful Patel, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Hardeep Singh Puri, US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Preet Bharara, and author Suketu Mehta.

In another first, the India Abroad Award for Lifetime Service to the Community 2010 were given not to a person but to four organizations for their outstanding work in support of South Asian women who are victims of domestic violence: Manavi, Sakhi, Apna Ghar and Maitri.

The penultimate award of the evening was the India Abroad Award for Lifetime Achievement 2010, presented to the legendary actress and food writer Madhur Jaffrey.

Since Nikki Haley was away at the Paris Air Show to build South Carolina's brand as an aerospace hub, she made her acceptance speech via video. Her parents Professor Ajit Randhawa and Raj Randhawa accepted the award on her behalf.

India Abroad Publisher Ajit Balakrishnan (left) after presenting the India Abroad Publisher's Award for Special Achievement to Dr Siddhartha Mukherjee (centre), author of the cancer book, The Emperor of All Maladies

Nobel Laureate Venkatraman Ramakrishnan (right) after presenting the India Abroad Person of the Year 2010 Award for Governor Nikki Haley (inset) to her parents Prof. Ajit and Raj Randhawa (second and third from left). (Photos: Paresh Gandhi/India Abroad)

Strobe Talbott, deputy secretary of state in the Clinton administration, was presented the inaugural Friend of India Award, by Meera Shankar, India's Ambassador to the US, and Vijay Dandapani, COO, AppleCore Hotels.

Kathleen Shea, VP Sales & Marketing, The Pierre, one of the event's sponsors, astrophysicist Dr Priyamvada Natarajan, FourSquare cofounder Naveen Selvadurai and mathematician Dr Manjul Bhargava, after the presentation of the India Abroad Face of the Future Award to Selvadurai.

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Community 4 Community TheSouthAsianTimes.info June 18-24, 2011

June 18-24, 2011 July 2-8, 2011 IIFA story Continued from page 1

Mangano joins Governor Cuomo as he signs historic property tax legislation

who is also a Canadian citizen and runs a dance school here, will be the official choreographer of the IIFA Awards.

According to organizers, more than 22,000 people are expected to attend the IIFA Awards which will be beamed internationally to over 700 million people.

Twenty Bollywood films are being screened in Toronto and its sister cities of Brampton, Mississauga and Markham as part of the IIFA Awards.

These include Chak De India, Hera Pheri, Dabangg and Dil To Pagal Hai. Interestingly, the Indian-dominated city of Brampton on the outskirts of Toronto will name a street Raj Kapoor Crescent after the legendary Raj Kapoor during the IIFA Awards.

The South Asian Times team will be there to cover Toronto IIFA.

Salman Khan’s ‘Chillar Party’ will open IIFA ’11.

Gurmeet Sodhi invited to White House reception

To protect homeowners and businesses from skyrocketing property tax hikes, Nassau County New York: Gurmeet K. Sodhi hassigned been invitExecutive Edward P. Mangano Thursday joined Governor Andrew M. Cuomo as he the historic property tax cap legislation at the home of residents, andand Janet edNassau by theCounty President BarackJames Obama First Gannon in Lynbrook. Under the new law, property tax increases capped at 2 percent or Lady to attendwill thebe Asian American Pacific the rate of inflation, whichever is less. Local communities and local voters could override the cap Islanders Commission reception at the White with a 60 percent vote on the budget for school boards or relevant legislative bodies.

House on June 22—a first for an Indian Talk Show Host. With almost a decade of experience as a talk show host, Gurmeet Sodhi is known as one of the most influential women the for South Asian media community.

India prosecution in Kolkata would be subNew Delhi: In a major setback, a five-judge in Her talk show – GS with GS (Gup Shup special bench of Denmark high court at Copen- jected to torture in jail.

Sodhi) onis Jus Punjabi TheGurmeet Danish government likely to movehas the hagen on Thursday refused to order extradi- with kicked-off its third successful season on April the tion of Kim Davy alias Niels Holck, the main country’s Supreme Court. On April 9, 2010, 2011.

Her ministry invitation the White House Danish justice hadtoordered extradition accused in 1995 Purulia armsdrop case. This 1st, initiated

by Mr. Amardeep Singh who of Davy for his trial in Kolkata.

Challenging this, brings the end to the case of international arms was serves as a Commissioner on the White which trafficking in which the identity of the intended Davy moved a local court in Hillsboro, House Commission Americans andofPacific on Novemberon5, Asian 2010 ruled in favor Davy. recipient of the arms still remains a mystery.

828 K Islanders, appointed by President Obama.

Mr. Danish government then appealed to DenThe judges upheld the magistrate’s order Singh is the first Sikh ever to serve on this that had held that there was a real and present mark high court, which constituted a special bench consisting of five judges. danger that Davy, if he was handed over to commission.

Denmark court disallows extradition of accused in Purulia arms drop case to India

Parbhu Dayal continued from page 1 IIFAof story Many the Dayal’’s supporters have suggestContinued 1 a quick buck. ed that Bhardwajfrom is outpage to make “The laws of this land are being misused,” who is also Goenka, a Canadian citizen runs said Animesh President of and the Assoa dance school here, will be the official ciation of Indians in America (AIA)-National. choreographer of the IIFA Awards.

Dayal has told the media that Bhardwaj left to organizers, more than New Delhi: India gave conditional clear- his According services in January 2010 after he did not al22,000 people are expected to attend ance Thursday to the multi-billion dollar sale low her to work outside to make extra money, the IIFA Awards which will be beamed of British oil explorer Cairn Energy’s Indian which was against her visa regulations. internationally to over 700 million oilfields to London-listed mining group VeDayal has said that the Government of Inpeople. danta Resources. diaTwenty now needed to take a call on are whether to films being The approval came with the key rider that go through aBollywood trial route or settle the matter screened in Toronto and its sister cities Cairn India’s new owner share the oilfields’ with o f the B rState a m pDepartment. ton, Mississauga and royalty burden, currently borne in whole Meanwhile, USofState has Markham asthe part the Department IIFA Awards.

by India’s state-owned Oil and Natural Gas said the charges against Dayal constitute a law These include Chak De India, Hera Corp (ONGC). enforcement matter.and Dil To Pagal Hai. Pheri, Dabangg The sale, one of the biggest in Indian corLegal Aid Society, which is representInterestingly, the Indian-dominated porate history, was originally valued at 9.6 ing Bhardwaj, asserts that does not city of Brampton on theDayal outskirts of billion dollars, but Cairn and Vedanta agreed have diplomatic immunity sinceRaj theKapoor subject Toronto will name a street earlier this week to cut the price by more than mCartet secr e n t a f t e r t h e l e g e n d a r y R a j Matrimonial 600 million dollars. ofKapoor the during IIFA Awards. role in Asamai Hindu Temple in Hicksville, NY, honored Rajan Zed the for his leadership Lady Doctor, Hindu, 35 case on is June 12. Temple priest Madan Hinduism and promotion of interfaith dialogue Seeking Suitable, Professional Counter - terror continued from page 1 The Asian Timesofteam will be allof priKumar Jha presented Zed, who is President theSouth Universal Hinduism, AllianceSociety in USA. Please Claiming that over the past two and half vthere to cover Toronto IIFA. a t e . withmore a religious June top 12 even as temple leaders Radhu Bathija and Gobind contact JRandhi@Sky.com years than halfscarf of Alon Qaeda’s leaderBathija looked on.

The same day he was honored by the Hicksville gurdwara with a ship has been eliminated, Brennan said with the siropa.

Based in Reno, Nevada, Zed was visiting the Tristate area to participate in the death of Osama bin Laden, the US had struck "Religious Leadership in an Interfaith World" seminar of prestigious Hartford its biggest blow against the terrorist group. from June 6 to 10.

But “this fight is notSeminary over,” he(Connecticut) said and cited President Barack Obama to reiterate his administration’s tives put did Al not represent the ment was neither serious Lok pal story resolve: “We have Qaeda on a path to page defeat, we billion will notpeople of India. about the Lokpal bill nor Continued from 1 and 1.2 relent until the job is done.”

Home Minister about fighting corruption.

Sevencontrols key goals of the new White House “The government has Chidambaram said the which every activstrategy are: to the govern- government was deter- frittered away a huge ity relating –ment,” ReducingHRD US vulnerabilities updatingtode-“draft a strong opportunity to provide a Ministerandmined fenses Kapil Sibal, one of the five and sound Lokpal bill” good legislation to the –ministers Disrupting,indegrading and dismantling the Lokpal before theAlmutually agreed country… The governQaeda it takesconferroot deadline of June 30 and ment’s Lokpal bill is a panel,wherever told a news –ence.

Preventing terrorists from acquiring or develpresent it to parliament. jokepal bill.” oping weapons of mass destruction The government does not Meeting journalists a lit“You cannot threaten a –negotiation Eliminating Alprocess,” Qaeda safe he havenstle while earlier, Hazare agree with the civil soci–said, Degrading betweencolAl Qaeda, withlinks cabinet and its hisaffiliconfidant Arvind ety’s demands that the ates and adherents leagues P. Chidambaram Kejriwal lashed out at the prime minister and the –and Countering Al Qaeda ideology government.

Salman Khursheed higher judiciary should be –flanking Deprivinghim.

Al Qaeda of illicit logisti“Now that the govern- brought within the ambit of “You can-financing, cal and online communications. notsupport, threaten us and then ment is turning its back on the Lokpal. There are also Brennan also ad- I will fast fundamental differences negotiate withannounced us. Thisthat is the itsObama promise, 828 K ministration unveil a programagain this summer from Aug 16,” about the structure of the not the waywill forward.” to Sibal partneralso withunderlined communities to prevent violent Lokpal institution — and that Hazare said. extremism in the Kejriwal said the govern- how it should function.

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Tristate Community TheSouthAsianTimes.info

July 2-8, 2011

Dr Chad Gehani to lead New York State Dental Association Albany, New York: In an historic first, Professor Chad Gehani of New York University assumed the office of President of the New York State Dental Association which represents over 13,000 dentists in the State and whose long line of presidents began in 1868 becoming the Association’s first president of Indian descent.

Born in Kurla, Mumbai, he declares emphatically, ``I am a very proud American who is made in India. I am honored and humbled to be the first individual of ethnic origin to head the New York State Dental Association.” He went on to state his top priorities shall be to break the barriers to oral care of all citizens, specially of underprivileged New Yorkers by improving the Medicaid system, advocating for equal treatment of all dentists practicing in the United States and mentoring young dentists to take on the leadership roles to create strong future leadership.

Dr Chad Gehani Dr. Gehani has been an active member of organized dentistry at all levels.

On the national level, he has served the American Dental Association as an ADA delegate beginning in 2000 and also served as a Team Leader of the ADA Tripartite Grassroots Membership Initiative.

7-day Bhagwad Gita course from July 10 New York: Having taught many family Gita classes in the New York area, this July Swami Nikhilanand is returning to deliver a series of discourses explaining what is beyond the Bhagwad Gita. This program, to be held at the Vaishnav Community Center in New Hyde Park, NY from July 10th to July 16th, will introduce listeners to the philosophy of the Bhagwatam.

The program will combine a discourse and kirtan in the main hall for adults with a youth Bhagwatam class in a separate room.

It will also differ from most other Bhagwat saptah programs in that listeners will not only hear the stories of the Bhagwatam, but will learn the actual philosophy of the Bhagwatam, how it relates to other Hindu scriptures, and how to apply it in

their own practice of devotion.

In his Bhagwatam discourse this July, Swami Nikhilanand will be going beyond what he has taught in his past Gita classes.

Swamiji tells, “It is commonly said that where the teachings of the Bhagwad Gita end, the philosophy of the Bhagwatam begins.

The Gita gives general knowledge about who God is, who Krishna is, and how a person should lead their life.

The Bhagwatam reveals things about God that are only hinted at in the Gita, and tells secrets about the ultimate goal of life which you could not know by reading the Gita. That is why the Bhagwatam is considered to the crown jewel of all the Hindu scriptures.”

The satsang will conclude each evening with singing

bhajans of Krishna leelas which are based on the stories of the Bhagwatam.

This helps participants to engage their mind in remembering God for a longer time, whereas normally the mind is too fickle to allow a person to meditate for more than a few minutes.

The location of the program is the Vaishnav Community Center at 100 Lakeville Rd in New Hyde Park, NY 11040. The dates are July 10-16, 2011.

The time is 4:00-6:00 pm on Sunday, July 10, and 7:00-8:30 pm on the remaining days (Monday, July 11 to Saturday, July 16). For more information you can call Rohit Sharma at (516) 5821113, or visit www.SwamiNikhilanand.com or www.Facebook.com/Swami Nikhilanand.

Doctor indicted in $700,000 Medicaid fraud New York: A New York City physician has been indicted for allegedly prescribing HIV medication for patients who did not have the virus and billing Medicaid for it.

The indictment was announced June 3 by Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr. Dr. Suresh Hemrajani, 57, is accused of Medicaid fraud worth $700,000, a press release from the D.A.'s office said.

Hemrajani has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, faces up to 15 years in jail. A specialist in internal medicine, Hemrajani allegedly prescribed HIV medication to his patients though they did not have the virus, and arranged for the patients to bill

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Medicaid, according to the indictment.

He has been charged with grand larceny in the second degree, grand larceny in the fourth degree, health care fraud in the fifth degree and 11 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree.

The Associated Press reported that the Manhattan judge hearing the case revealed that middlemen recruited patients on the street and brought them to Hemrajani's office where he allegedly prescribed the medications without examining them.

More than 150 patients were involved in the alleged scam according to the AP; 30 of them have been charged and another 17 sentenced to prison.

Annual convention of RAJMAAI held in NY New York: The 22nd annual convention of the Rajasthan Medical Alumni Association Inc (RAJMAAI) was held on June 24th at the Hilton hotel in New York. More than 100 delegates attended the convention.

At the beginning of the convention, Dr. Ajay Lodha, President of the RAJMAAI extended warm welcome and thanked the delegates who were attending the convention. He commented that this convention was a landmark in RAJMAAI history– AAPI President, Convention President, as well as the host President were active members of RAJMAAI. This coincidence prompted him to hold RAJMAAI convention during the AAPI convention. He emphasized that his main aim is to bring RAJMAAI at the national level.

As an active RAJMAAI member he believes that we need to advance the agenda for the participation of young alumni. He intends

Dr Ratna Jain (2nd from left), a RNT Medical College graduate, Mayor of Kota as well as the director of Maitri Hospital and Research Center, Kota was among the honorees at the event. Dr. Ajay Lodha (3rd from left), President of RAJMAAI also seen in the picture) to appoint a steering committee to develop the required strategies to achieve that goal.

Dr. Shashi Shekhar Shah, the master of ceremonies, invited the distinguished members at the podium, to whom, the RAJMAAI nominating committee, decided to honor. RAJMAAI also recognized the services of the recent past President,

Convention Chair and the guest of honor of the 22nd convention.

Dr Ratna Jain is a graduate of RNT Medical College, Udaipur, India.

Currently, she is the Mayor of Kota as well as the director of Maitri Hospital and Research Center, Kota. She is also the Director, Rajasthan State Pollution Department.

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Tristate Community

July 2-8, 2011

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Presentation on ‘Life Beyond Death’ Dr. Appareddy elected next for Gujarati Samaj of NY chairperson of AMA’s IMG Section Chattanooga, Tenn: Dr. Psychiatry at Brown University VijayaLakshmi Appareddy, medical school in Providence, member of the Board of RI. She then moved to Governors of Parkridge Valley Chattanooga to set up private Hospital Systems in practice in Psychiatry.

Chattanooga, TN, was recently Dr. Appareddy has served in elected as the Chairperson-Elect other medical organizations of the International Medical throughout her professional Graduates Section (IMG) of the career through various leaderAmerican Medical Association ship roles. She has contributed (AMA). The primary mission of to her local medical community Dr Vijayalakshmi the AMA is to “help doctors by serving as the President of the Appareddy help patients by uniting physiChattanooga chapter of the cians nationwide to work on the most impor- American Medical Women’s Association. She tant professional and public health issues.” has also been honored on the national level.

She has served as a Delegate / Alternate In 2002, Dr. Appareddy became the first Delegate to the AMA House of Delegates for Indian-American woman to receive a nonthe last 4 years and is a member of the career Presidential Appointment in the history Tennessee delegation to the AMA. of the United States of America. She was Dr. Appareddy completed her graduate med- sworn in as a member of the President Bush’s ical training and gained Board Certification in Committee for People with Intellectual both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Disabilities at a ceremony in the Indian Treaty Adolescent Psychiatry at Mount Sinai Room at the White House by Secretary of Medical School in New York. Following her Health and Human Services, Tommy training, she worked as Assistant Professor of Thompson in the summer of that year.

‘Just Dance’ US auditions broadcast on all Star channels July 3 New York: The U.S. auditions of reality dance show “Just Dance”, hosted by Hritik Roshan, will broadcast simultaneously across all four Star Network Channels – Star Plus, Star Gold, Star One and Star News on July 3 at 9 pm. This special episode will air in India and other territories worldwide in an exclusive one and a half hour TV event. The hunt for the ultimate Dance champion from the U.S. was spread over San Francisco, Los Angeles and New Jersey. The U.S. finals were held at the famed Florence Gould Hall in New York in April 2011. The short-listed candidates from pre-auditions were hand-picked by celebrity judges Vaibhavi Merchant and Farah Khan.

Queens, NY: Life is eternal. Considering “Death” –the cessation of functions of physical body, as the end of life is a great delusion.

The soul (Atma), which is the beholder of bioenergy in the physical body, is ageless, timeless and indestructible. The fear of “Death” ensues from the misconception that with the end of physical existence, the individual loses its identity in totality. A firm conviction in the continuity of life in future absolves man from the fear of “Death”. This was stated in a power point presentation on “The Life Beyond Physical Death” (based on the book by Pt. Shriram Sharma Acharya –Founder of All World Gayatri Pariwar) by Pravin Kapadia of Gayatri Pariwar at a program arranged by senior citizen wing of the Gujarati Samaj of New York, Queens.

In his presentation, Mr. Kapadia explained the various related interesting subjects like the moments of Death, Revival of memories, what becomes of us after Death, Experience of Hell and Heaven, Preparation for Re-birth and Preparation for Death.

Mr. Kapadia mentioned that Death too

Pravin Kapadia of Gayatri Pariwar giving the presentation. requires preparation. One should ask following questions to one self: What Am I? Why I was born as human being? What are my duties during human life? What I want to achieve in life?

Mr. Manikant Patel, president of Gujarat Samaj of NY, welcomed Pravin Kapadia with a bouquet.

Student, mom get deportation reprieve Houston: An Indian American pre-medical student and her mother facing deportation to India for staying in the US illegally have received a lastminute reprieve and were allowed to stay back temporarily to appeal the order.

Mandeep Chahal, who just finished her second year at the University of CaliforniaDavis, and her mother Jagdish Kaur, a homemaker, received Last minute Facebook campaign helped a temporary stay on deportaMandeep Chahal receive tion by the Department of temporary stay on Homeland Security on June deportation 21.

Chahal, 20, entered the US with her mother in 1997, but did not find out she was undocumented until she was 15.

Jagdish Kaur filed for political asylum in 1998, but following a six-year backlog, failed to show up at a hearing in 2003 and was denied asylum.

A judge then ordered Kaur to be deported. She was picked up by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in 2010, while on her way to a doctor's appointment and held in detention.

Kaur was released shortly afterwards for medical reasons but both she and Chahal wore ankle monitors for a while so that ICE could track their movements.

Over the weekend, friends and advocates launched a last-minute social media campaign to halt Mountain View resident Mandeep Chahal's deportation, which was scheduled for Wednesday.

Chahal, studying neurology, physiology and behavior at UC Davis, has lived in the Bay area since she was 6 years old.

The campaign resulted in more than 3,000 faxes being sent to members of Congress and the Obama administration.

"I want to thank everyone who has embraced our story and spoken out on behalf of my mother and me. My family will be at home tonight, together, because of you," said Chahal in a statement on her Facebook page.

"This morning, my mother and I were taken into custody at the ICE office in San Francisco. We were there less than two hours before ICE decided to grant us a temporary stay and release us."

The 31st annual Indian Independence Day Parade will be held on August 21 in Manhattan by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA). This year’s theme is My Earth-My Home, celebrating My India-My pride.

Bollywood actor Rani Mukherjee will be the Grand Marshall.

National Community TheSouthAsianTimes.info

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July 2-8, 2011

Arun Jaitley on first official Acharya Lokesh Muni on visit to the US ‘Peace- Harmony Tour’ of USA

Acharya Lokesh Muni (2nd from left) at magazine release of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti in New Delhi New York: Founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti Achrya Dr. Lokesh Muni, who is continuously making efforts for building national character, development of human value and promotion of peace and communal harmony, will be in the US on ‘Peace- Harmony Tour.’

Before leaving, a seminar on ‘Universal Challenges and Our Responsibility’ was organized in Parliament House premises.

Besides many religious leaders’ senior leaders of Congress Oscar Fernandes, Jai Prakash Agarwal, journalist Dr. Ved Pratap Vedik

and several prominent leaders participated in the seminar. Acharya Lokesh Muni Ji has been conferred ‘National Communal Harmony Award’ for year 2011 by the Indian Government. His tour will promote Indian values in USA.

Indian-American creates world's largest tricolor Chicago: Exuding unflinching patriotism, an Indian-American here has created the world's largest Indian flag, weighing 250 kg, as a symbol of peace and harmony in the country. The tricolor, which stretches 153 by 102 feet, was created by entertainment businessman Monty Saiyed and has found place in Limca Book of Records in April this year.

His creation will feature at the two-day Vibrant India event to be held here on July 16 and 17 with performances from

Bollywood actors and singers.

"The flag is a message of peace and unity. This is an occasion of unity where everybody should stand together and support the cause of the flag and take the honor of it," Saiyed, 35, said.

It took 15 days for seven Porbandar tailors, recruited

by Saiyed, to sew this cotton flag.

After the Vibrant India event, the flag will be flown back to Navsari in Gujarat and could be used in other events in different

Indian states. "Next year, the flag will be used for the same purpose of peace and unity in different states in India," Saiyed said.

Saiyed, who is living in the US since the age of seven, said his great grandfather first came to India 1100 years ago from Medina in Saudi Arabia, when King Siddhraj Jaysingh was the ruler settled in Navsari.

His family members also run a foundation called "Gandhi Peace Mission" in Gujarat for the last 7-8 years.

Indian American indicted for not reporting India HSBC account Washington,DC: Indian American neurosurgeon Arvind Ahuja of Greendale, Wisconsin has been indicted for failing to report to US tax authorities millions of dollars in bank accounts at the HSBC Bank in India and the Bailiwick of Jersey.

Ahuja was Tuesday indicted by a federal grand jury in Milwaukee on four counts of wilfully filing materially false tax returns and four counts of failing to file Reports of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBARs).

According to the indictment, as announced by the Department of Justice and Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Ahuja' HSBC bank account in India had a balance of $8,733,785 in 2009, but he failed to report these bank accounts to the IRS on his 2006-09 tax returns.

The indictment further alleges that Ahuja failed to report more than $1.2 million in interest income that he earned from his HSBC India account and failed to pay the taxes due on that income.

For the 2006-09 tax years, Ahuja also failed to file FBARs to report his foreign bank accounts to the Department of the Treasury.

As alleged in the indictment, US citizens have an obligation to report to the IRS on their tax returns.

Each false tax return charge carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The failure to file FBAR charges each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.

A trial date has not yet been set.

Washington DC: Arun Rayburn Congressional Jaitley, leader of the Building. Representative Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Crowley welcomed Jaitley, is on his first official to the US. highlighting the importance of Jaitley was accompanied by Indo-US relations in the fast Lok Sabha Member of changing global marketplace: Parliament Janardhan Swamy “Mr. Jaitley’s visit represents a and former Rajya Sabha memgreat opportunity for the US to ber Chandan Mitra during this continue building a strong relaArun Jaitley is leader of tionship with India. In an visit to Washington, D.C. Jaitley met with leading mem- Opposition in Rajya Sabha increasingly globalized econobers of Congress, think tanks my, it is important for the US to and key members of the administration during continue to foster friendship with India, which his official trip to the U.S. from June 22 – is emerging as a leading growth economy June 24. He started his visit in DC with an despite the difficult economic landscape.” address at the Heritage Foundation on: Congressman Ed Royce too praised the eco“Indian Foreign Policy - Priorities in a nomic growth of India and hoped that the relaShifting Global Landscape”. Subsequently he tions between the two countries would contininteracted with prominent lawmakers at the ue to strengthen. He pointed out how imporHill including Congressman Steve Chabot, tant it is for both the countries to work togethFaleomavaega, Howard Berman, er as both of them have several common valCongresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Senator ues. The Congressional India Caucus event Joe Lieberman, Senator Richard Lugar and was attended by Congressmen Joe Crowley, Senator Heller. Jaitley stressed on the growing Joe Wilson, Ed Royce, Hansen Clarke and strength of the US India relationship and its Congresswoman Corrine Brown and Judy strategic nature. He also talked about the con- Chu, Co-chair of the Asia-Pacific Caucus. vergence on various issues between the two Sanjay Puri, Chairman, USINPAC introcountries especially relating to terrorism and duced him at the Congressional Caucus recepgrowth of trade. tion. He said, “Mr. Jaitley is a senior and The Co-chairs of the India Caucus in the US respected Indian politician who had been Congress: Congressmen Joe Crowley and Minister of Law & Justice, Minister of Congressman Ed Royce held a reception on Shipping, and Minister of Commerce and behalf of the Caucus for Jaitley in the Industries.”

8

Diaspora

July 2-8, 2011

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Welfare scheme for jobless Non-Resident Keralites Thiruvananthapuram: Now, Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) who return home jobless will be provided assistance for education, marriage, maternity besides money for performing funeral rites, Kerala Governor R.S. Gavai announced Friday.

Kerala has over two million people who work abroad and another one million who have returned.

'The NORKA (Non-Resident Keralites Affairs Department)

Centre will bring all agencies of the department under one roof and would begin functioning this year itself. It is also proposed to start an NRI Business Centre in the building along with a call centre and a helpline for assisting NRKs,' said Gavai. Addressing the first session of the newly-constituted state assembly following April 13 elections, the governor also said that Norka-Roots will strengthen the recently established job portal for

promotion of safe migration practises and ensure good jobs overseas.

'The awareness campaign against illegal-migration being done by Norka-Roots would also be expanded. Similarly, the skill upgradation and training programme would also be expanded with new courses which are relevant to overseas employment as well as addition of up to date training facilities,' added Gavai.

Indian-origin man admits post office fraud in Britain London: A 51-year-old man of Indian origin has pleaded guilty before a court of committing fraud at a post office in Britain, media reports said.

Hasmukh Shingadia - owner of the Peaches Spar shop in Upper Bucklebury, Berkshire - claimed that the amount of cash-in-hand at a post office branch inside his shop was greater than the true figure, BBC reported.

Shingadia pleaded guilty at the Oxford Crown Court to a charge of false accounting between December 2008 and March 2010.

His lawyer Nigel Daly told the court his client was suffering a cash flow problem at the time with

the non-post office side of his business.

Shingadia, however, pleaded not guilty to one count of theft of 16,180 pounds.

Though the judge granted him bail until a sentencing hearing July 21, he said all sentencing options remained possible.

'I am giving you no indication of what the likely sentence will be in relation to this,' the judge was quoted as saying.

Shingadia recently attended the royal wedding as a guest of the Middleton family.

William and Kate used to be clients at his shop near the Middleton's family home.

Canada unveils another memorial to Air India victims Toronto: Canada unveiled another memorial to the 1985 Air Indian Kanishka bombing victims Thursday - the 26th anniversary of the tragedy. The new memorial was unveiled at Lachine in Quebec province. It is the fourth memorial to the Air India victims in Canada.

Kanishka flight 182 from Montreal to Delhi was blown off near Ireland June 23, 1985, killing all 329 people on board. Within an hour, another bomb meant for another Air India flight went off at Tokyo's Narita airport, killing two baggage handlers. Both the bombs were planted by Khalistani extremists to avenge the India army action at the Golden Temple in 1984.

In a statement, the Indian high commission said the government of Canada is organizing a memorial service at Lachine to pay homage to the victims of the Air India flight 182. 'Endorsed by the families of the victims, this project is supported by the Government of Canada and built on a land provided by Parks Canada.' Indian deputy high commissioner Narinder Chauhan will represent India at the

tribute ceremonies. Canadian leaders, diplomats and families of the victims will also pay tributes to the victims at the Air India Memorial in Commissioner's Park in the capital Ottawa.

Tributes to the victims will also be paid Air India memorials in Toronto and Vancouver. Anil Singh Hanse, whose father Narendra Singh Hanse was the pilot of the Kanishka flight, said, 'On the twenty-sixth anniversary of the cowardly bombing of our loved ones whom we miss so much, I have a message for the Canadian PM: this year makes it twenty-sixth painful years (for us) and we the families would like to see a resolution to this matter with grace that was shown by the current government in 2006 by ordering an inquiry.''

Only one person Inderjit Singh Reyat was jailed for the bombing.

While plotter Talwinder Singh Parmar, who fled to India, was killed by Punjab Police in an encounter in 1992, two suspects Ripudaman Singh Malik and Ajaib Singh Bagri - were acquitted in 2005.

Music TheSouthAsianTimes.info

9 July 2-8, 2010

Shaan belts out his greatest hits for fans The standing room only audiences in New York and New Jersey last weekend for his concerts were a testimony to the draw of the silken smooth voice of Shaan, the leading singer for the last 10 years in Bollywood. He is on a much anticipated, sold out US tour after a gap of five years.

By Parveen Chopra Photos: Gunjesh Desai/ Masalajunction.com

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he superstar singer with looks of a matinee idol didn’t show any nakhras. His sole focus was to give his utmost to entertain the audience who had paid and taken out time on a weekend to listen to him sing in person. The best part is, his singing is effortless. His velvety voice is flawless.

He adds to his stage presence by doing a jig now and then, particularly when dancers come onstage to accentuate the song’s atmosphere.

The Tristate audiences were appreciative of whatever Shaan had to offer, and it showed in their clapping, foot-tapping, even dancing by some energized teenage girls. The one time he ventured to make his entry along the aisle, he needed bouncers to prevent being mobbed.

In New York, after the junior artists Aishwarya Majumdar and Shadab had warmed up the proceedings, Shaan made a grand entry with “Main Hoon Don” from Don - The Chase Begins Again, even as dancers surrounded him with chunris, and presented him a flower as the number ended. Though he kept soliciting crowd favorites, he went ahead with a carefully calibrated

The packed halls at both the New Jersey and New York concerts spoke volumes for Shaan’s popularity. sequence of songs, in the fashion of an adept DJ. Slow, romantic numbers like the crowd favorites ‘ Chand Sifarish’ from Fanaa, and “Jab Se Tere Naina” from Saawariya, giving way to pacy medley with songs including the ones from Welcome and Partner.

“Dus Bahane” from Dus, “Main Aisa Kyun Hoon” from Lakshya, “Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh” from 3 Idiots also were well timed.

After the intermission, at one point, he was joined by Shadaab—he of the booming voice—to render some memorable Sufi numbers, not originally sung by Shaan, like ‘Sajda’ from My Name is Khan. With Aishwarya Majumdar he sang a few duets like “Hey Shona” from Ta Ra Rum Pum and after the rustic “Beedi” number left her to croon solo mandatory item numbers like ‘Munni badnaam hui’.

Aishwarya Majumdar, the child prodigy who won the title “Chota Ustad” in 2008 on the show “Star Voice of India”, has a versatile voice suited to all kinds of songs, and is set for a great career in Bollywood. Shadab Faridi, who like Aishwarya has the golden chance to accompany Shaan on the US tour, is also destined for greater things.

Shaan’s own two sons are likely to follow in his footsteps.

His comely wife Radhika was

present at the Colden Auditorium concert in Flushing. In one interlude, he invited his elder one, Soham, 8, to come and play the piano tuned to “Maa Tujhe Sab Hai Pata, Hain Na Maa”--a tribute to mother’s love.

The concert was a time well spent—Shaan songs kept ringing in one’s ears for a long time afterwards too.

Honor for Shaan, anti-tobacoo campaigner Shaan made a grand entry with “Main Hoon Don” amid dancers surrounding him with chunris.

At his NY concert, Shaan was presented a Proclamation from Mayor Bloomberg appreciating his campaigning against tobacoo use. The Indian Ministry of Health and Welfare has appointed Shaan as the tobacco control ambassador of India.

New York has placed itself at the forefront of global tobacco control by implementing comprehensive tobacco control measures in the city.

India has 275 million tobacco users and a mortality rate of one million a year due to tobacco-related diseases.

Shaan’s new song “Life Se Panga Mat Le Yaar”, that was released recently, speaks of living life to the fullest and not destroying it with tobacco. While accepting the honor he mentioned with regret that his musician father died an untimely death because of smoking.

Aishwarya Majumdar and Shadab Faridi have the good opportunity to accompany Shaan on the US tour.

The ardor of his fans is to be seen to be believed.

Shaan thanked his co-singers Aishwarya Majumdar and Shadab as well as his band members.

10

Despite the fact that a few biggies gave IIFA a miss, it was a lifetime experience for audiences to witness stars from Bollywood/ Hollywood walking the Green Carpet at the Roger Center in Toronto. While actors like Hilary Swank and Cuba Gooding Jr. showered their love for the Indian cinema, Canadian actor Tom Green and Australian cricketer Brett Lee also graced the event. A few glimpses.

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ith its heady cocktail of dance, music and glitterati, the three-day International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) will be etched in the memories of people in Canada’s largest city for a long time to come.

The June 23-25 event had all the elements of a mini-Punjabi wedding with fun, frolic and color poured in generous quantities. Many NRIs played their part by showing up in the best of Indian finery; and for those of other nationalities, it was a perfect window to the wonders of Indian film culture.

“The last time I saw such a turnout for Indians was for the Temptations tour in 2006. But this IIFA event was massive. So many Indians stood united to cheer for Bollywood. It was indeed a memorable experience,” Alfreeda Islam, a student here, was quoted as saying.

Day after day, the Fairmont Royal Park hotel here in downtown Toronto saw itself overwhelmed with fans. And it wasn’t just Indians who queued up, eager foreigners were equally upbeat about getting a taste of Indian cinema.

The IIFA Weekend kickstarted with a host of Bollywood celebrities like Boman Irani, Dia Mirza, Riteish Deshmukh, Mallika Sherawat, Bipasha Basu and international artist Jermaine Jackson at the inaugural press conference.

The evening saw a star-studded green carpet event for the world premiere of “Double Dhamaal” at the SilverCity Theater in Brampton city.

The second day saw the FICCI-IIFA global business forum where dignitaries from both the countries discussed possibilities of boosting tourism, business and co-productions. Around the same time, Ontario had a taste of the phenomena called Shah Rukh Khan.

Hundreds gathered in the lobby of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel to welcome King Khan, one of the most popular stars in Bollywood.

Making his return to the IIFA after a gap of six years, Shah Rukh came despite a knee injury and broke into an impromptu jig the moment he entered the hotel premises.

For a lot of fanatics, the glimpse was a “lifetime chance”.

People flew in from Los Angeles, Montreal, Chicago and even Afghanistan, among other places, just so that they could get “as close as it gets” to SRK.

Actor Mallika Sherawat performing during IIFA Rocks.

When Toronto was bowled over

Best Debut actor Ranbir Singh performs during the IIFA awards ceremony.

While Shah Rukh’s magic continued to charm everyone in the hotel, his friend-turned-foe Salman Khan’s debut co-production “Chillar Party” kicked off the IIFA Film Festival, but sans Salman. The actor was supposed to attend the event, but couldn’t make it due to his shooting schedule for “Bodyguard”.

The Raj Kapoor street naming ceremony also took place on day two of IIFA. Brampton Mayor Susan Fennell gave a warm welcome to the popular Kapoor family - Raj’s widow Krishna Raj Kapoor, his sons Randhir, Rishi and Rajiv, daughters Ritu and Reema as well as daughter-inlaw Neetu - as she unveiled a placard which read Raj Kapoor Crescent. The placard will be placed on a new street to be built in the city.

There was a lot of waiting for Bollywood fans in the evening with the IIFA Rocks -- a music and fashion event, which left many in awe of what Bollywood is capable of.

The Ricoh Coliseum again saw a flurry of fans, vying to see, touch, and talk to their favorite celebrities. Hosted by Karan Johar and Anushka Sharma, the IIFA Rocks saw a performance by American musician Jermaine, who also teamed up with Indian singer Sonu Niigaam to pay a tribute to his younger brother, late King of Pop Michael Jackson.

The event also saw a fusion of fashion and music as models in creations by Indian designers Rajesh Pratap Singh, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Vikram Phadnis, and Canadian clothing store The Bay, sashayed down the larger than life ramp, with music director trio Shankar-EhsaanLoy playing a medley of their songs in the background.

Showstoppers like Brett Lee, Rahul Khanna, Zayed Khan, Sonakshi Sinha and Neha Dhupia, a retro performance by Dia Mirza, a saucy dance by Mallika Sherawat, an energetic show by Canadian rockers RDB and a rockqawalli MIX BY Sonu Niigaam enthralled the audience.

The last day saw the coming together of two worlds as Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, lyricist Javed Akhtar and composers Vishal Bharadwaj and Salim Merchant conducted a music workshop to share and promote the music of both countries. After an interactive session with the audience, Javed and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy got together to compose live, and Salim Merchant gave an impromptu piano performance.

The evening saw the Roger’s Center filling up with people. There were an estimated 30,000 people outside the grand venue, and they incessantly cheered for each of those who walked the green carpet.

The loudest cheers were heard for Shah Rukh and “Slumdog Millionaire” actor Anil Kapoor. Oscar winner Hilary Swank and actor Cuba Gooding Jr. also made for a surprise element at the event where star power and fan turnout was unlike any edition that IIFA has seen before.

The main show sparkled with scintillating performances, awards distribution and Bollywood magic. But one hopes the buzz caused

by IIFA translates into increased tourism and business opportunities in both the countries.

Cricketer Brett Lee and actor Zahid Khan acknowledge designer Rajesh Pratap Singh as singer Shankar Mahadevan performs during a fashion segment of the IIFA Rocks event.

11

'Dabangg' sweeps IIFA awards alman Khan starrer "Dabangg", last year's biggest Bollywood hit, was adjudged the best film at the glittering 12th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards here. The action-comedy bagged seven awards.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan was named the best male actor for his performance as an asperger patient in Karan Johar's "My Name Is Khan", while Anushka Sharma received the best female actor for her lively role of a wedding planner in "Band Baaja Baraat".

The city's Roger's Center erupted in cheers when Shah Rukh received the award from Anil Kapoor and Hollywood actress Hillary Swank who greeted the audience with a "Namaste".

Paying tributes to Yash Johar, whose seventh death anniversary falls Sunday, King Khan said: "I am glad that I could receive this award on this day. I have received so much love that tonight I am a Torontonian."

Karan Johar, who got the best director award for "My Name Is Khan," said: "This is my first IIFA award. It couldn't have been possible without the brilliance of the protagonist of the film - Shah Rukh Khan. I dedicate it to my dad...I love and miss him."

In all, "Dabangg" bagged seven awards, including best female debut for Sonakshi Sinha.

Presenting the award to Sonakshi, yesteryears' diva Hema Malini said: "I saw this girl and never thought she will become an actress."

A beaming Sonakshi said: "Toronto, itna pyar (so much love). Thanks for giving me the gift of IIFA. I will cherish it forever."

Ranvir Singh won the award for best debut male award for his role in "Band Baaja Baaraat" Accepting the award from veteran actor couple Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh, the young actor said: "It is special to me as the award is presented by my idol. (But) it is just the beginning."

The award for male supporting role went to Arjun Rampal for playing a politician in the political thriller "Raajneeti". "'Raajneeti' is very close to my heart...I hope that I can be like Dharamji fifty years in the industry," said Arjun. Prachi Desai won the trophy for female sup-

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Best Debut actress Sonakshi Sinha and actor Ranbir Singh perform at IIFA. porting role for her performance in underworld drama "Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai".

Mamta Sharma won the award for best female playback singer for her song "Munni Badnaam" in "Dabanng".

"I love you so much... Shah Rukh I love you much... Toronto I love you so much," said Mamta as Arshad Warsi handed her the award in the company of show co-hosts Boman Irani and Ritesh Deshmukh as well as Shah Rukh Khan.

The award for best male playback singer went to Rahat Fateh Ali Khan for "Tere mast mast do nain" from "Dabanng".

For best lyrics, the award went to Niranjan Iyengar for penning "Sajda" and "Noor-e-Khuda" in "My Name is Khan". The award was accepted by Karan Johar on his behalf. For best music direction, the award went to SajidWajid and Lalit Pandit for "Dabangg".

The award for best story went to Shibani Bathija for "My Name is Khan". The award for best screenplay went to Abhinav Kahsyap and Dileep Shukla for "Dabangg". Zeenat Aman, Prakash Mehra and Sant Singh Chatwal presented the award.

The award for best dialogue went to Vishal Bharadwaj for "Ishqiya". Mallika Sherawat and Brian White - her co-star in a Hollywood movie - presented the award.

Sonu Sood received the award for best performance in a negative role for "Dabangg".

Dharmendra won an award for his half-century in Indian cinema, while the Outstanding Achievement Award went to Sharmila Tagore.

Handing Sharmila the award, Shabana Azmi said: "I am hon-

Shah Rukh Khan receiving the award for 'Best Leading Role Male' for 'My Name is Khan.' of Bhosle's songs before the award was presented.

For the first time at the IIFA, Star Plus channel presented the Hottest Pair award to Anushka Sharma and Ranvir Singh for which 15 million votes were cast online.

"Anushka, you make me feel hot," said Ranvir accepting the award in her company.

The first Green IIFA Award by

Panasonic went to actress Priyanka Chopra. "This was totally unexpected," the actress said.

Ritiesh Deshmukh bagged the award for best performance in a comic role for the film "Housefull". Irrfan Khan, whom Anil Kapoor lauded for his performances on the global stage, received the IIFA award for his international performances.

Actor Sharmila Tagore with the 'Life Time Achievement Award.' ored to present this award to an actress for whom I have the highest regard - a path-breaker, achiever, a person who has been successful in every avatar she has chosen."

Sharmila said the award was "such a satisfying thing. It's fantastic. After Dharamji, it is a tough act to follow". She recalled Dharmendra's large heartedness when he agreed to a change in schedule for the shooting of a film when she had to "rush to Calcutta for personal reasons as Tiger (her husband) was in the West Indies".

Asha Bhosle received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

"She has been my favorite singer. She creates magic in ordinary songs," said Subash Ghai, presenting her the award.

Priyanka Chopra wowed the crowd by performing a medley

Actor Sridevi gives the Best Story award to Shibani Bhatija for the movie 'My Name is Khan.'

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Bollywood is magic: 'Pacino can't do what Indian actors do' Ontario premier A

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty with actors Anil Kapoor and Preity Zinta at the press conference in Toronto. he song, the dance, the drama, the action withstanding - Bollywood is "magic", said Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty at the inaugural press conference of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend and Awards.

"More than the glamour, action, drama, Bollywood is all about magic!" McGuinty, who heads the government of Canada's largest province of which Toronto is capital, told reporters.

"We have the second largest community of Indians living outside Canada. But of course the Canadians should be prepared to be awed and amazed by

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the magic of Bollywood.

Canadians will soon know look at Shah Rukh Khan as Johnny Depp and Priyanka Chopra as the Angelina Jolie of Bollywood," he added.

McGuinty recalled a strange but humorous brush that he had with the frenzy attached with the Hindi film industry n his last visit to Mumbai.

"I came for an event, and the paparazzi went click, click...till one man said...'Sir, you're blocking my view of Celina Jaitley'! I was zapped.

I have never been able to recover from that...but that gave me a good sense of how crazy people are for Bollywood," he said.

nupam Kher has drawn comparisons between Indian actors and international veterans Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, saying Bollywood stars are far more talented than these big names of Hollywood.

"An Indian actor can do whatever Al Pacino or Robert De Niro does, but they cannot do what Indian actors do. They can't sing like us, they can't dance like us," Anupam said in Toronto.

"Ask them to sing 'Chandni chandni' on top of a hill, and they will ask 'What's the motivation?'

We don't do that..." he added.

The veteran actor, who was here for the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend and Awards, says Indian actors go out of their way to do things sometimes they aren't convinced of.

Actor Anupam Kher in Toronto.

"So many times we aren't convinced about certain scenes...but the beautiful thing is that when we

do them, there are a million people who believe in it. And that's he magic of Indian cinema," he said.

Bollywood bowled me over: Cuba Gooding Jr he power of Indian films bowled over American actor Cuba Gooding Jr, who vibrantly displayed Bollywood dancing on the green carpet at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards night, which was also attended by Oscar winner Hilary Swank, Canadian actor Tom Green and Australian cricketer Brett Lee. Gooding Jr, famous for his role in 1996 film "Jerry Maguire", not only did a little jig Saturday on the green carpet outside the Roger's Centre here, but he was also over excited when he was called upon stage to present the best director

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Cuba Gooding Jr. award to Karan Johar.

He came dancing and attempting little steps here and there. And no,

he didn't miss a chance to flirt with Bipasha Basu, who accompanied him dressed in a formal black dress and poker straight locks.

"So...how good does Bipasha look?" he asked, and answered it himself: "Fine man!"

"I am bowled over today with the power of Indian films across the globe. I would love to do a role in a Bollywood film myself, and maybe dance a little..." he added while breaking into another jig, till Bipasha held his hand, and got him to stand straight!

Gooding Jr finally presented the best director award to Karan Johar for "My Name Is Khan".

India a special country for me: Swank scar winner Hilary Swank got a thunderous applause when she greeted spectators at the IIFA awards ceremony here with a "Namaste" and said India held a special place in her heart.

The Hollywood actress was the most unexpected celebrity at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards ceremony here.

The American, who accompanied "Slumdog Millionaire" actor Anil Kapoor to present the best actor award to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, said: "Namaste Toronto! Namaste India! Namaste world!"

"India has a very special place in my heart. Bollywood has been bringing two worlds together. It really makes us believe in the IIFA philosophy of 'One People. One World.' IIFA truly rocks," she added.

Swank, who looked simple yet stun-

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Hilary Swank with actor Anil Kapoor at the IIFA awards ceremony.

Swank wearing a red embellished sleeveless gown from Elie Saab Spring 2011 Couture collection.

ning in a deep pink and long gown, presented the award to Shah Rukh for his performance in Karan Johar's "My Name Is Khan".

The Badshah of Bollywood, as Shah Rukh is known, appreciated the actress for her heartwarming "Namaste".

"It feels great to be presented an award by two of the molst respected actors in the world - 'Slumdog Millionaire' Anil Kapoor, and of course, Hilary Swank," Shah Rukh told the audience at the Roger's Centre here. To Swank, SRK said: "I love the way you say 'Namaste'... it will be a fond memory."

Before the awards function kick started, Swank also had a brief brush with the media at the green carpet.

"I love all kinds of cinema and from all the countries. I think Bollywood films are a lot of fun and passionate. I'm excited to be at IIFA," she said.

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Big B is stunning: SRK

Toronto: For King Khan, Big B is still the super star of Bollywood. Asked about his super status at a press conference here, Shah Rukh Khan said the credit for his success should be given to "people who work behind scenes".

It would be wrong for him to claim the whole credit for his current status, said King Khan. The super star said Big B remains "the most stunning actor and a gentleman".

About his long absences from the IIFA Awards, he said: "I know a lot of people make a thing of the seven years that I have not been at IIFA ...it has no personal angst to it. It is just that it falls during the summer holidays for my young kids.''

Shah Rukh Khan said the media has created a myth that film stars are petty-minded people who get together under one roof at awards ceremonies.

When a Star TV reporter asked why Bollywood stars don't show up together at major awards ceremonies, King Khan said:

Shah Rukh Khan being presented the ‘Best Leading Male’ award by Hilary Swank.

Aish more than a dream girl: Malini

Hema Malini with husband Dharmendra.

Toronto: Hema Malini, the original 'dream girl' of Indian cinema, says Aishwarya Rai is "much more than a dream girl".

"As I have said many times, Aishwarya Rai is a dream girl and a great actress. In fact, she is much more than a dream girl," Hema Malini said here while interacting with the media about her upcoming film "Tell Me O Khuda" which has her daughter Esha Deol in the lead role.

The actress said the dream girl tag to her was given by people and the media. "They just started calling me a dream girl. That's how it happened. But every girl today is a dream girl...acting itself is about dreams," she said.

Husband Dharmendra, who was at the press conference, also appeared pleased when asked about his continuing He-Man image in

the Indian entertainment industry.

"Every boy today in a He-Man. They are conscious of their health.

So they all are He-Men. You people gave me this (tag) and I am very thankful for this. It continues because of your support and well wishes," the "Sholay" actor said.

'Garam Dharam', as he is known, showed flashes of his hot temper as well as spontaneity during the press conference and on the IIFA awards night.

At the finale of the three-day IIFA show when Dharmendra was given the award for his 50 years in Bollywood, he touched the 25,000strong audience with raw spontaneity and went on and on. As the show was running behind schedule, host Anil Kapoor had to whisper something into Dharmendra's ear.

But there was no stopping 'Garam Dharam' that night.

"That's no big deal. Any star who has the time, comes. Yeh apke damage main hai ke actors/actresses ek chhat ke niche naahi aana pasand karte. Achhi baat yeh hai ke sab masroof hain aur masroofiat se aa nahi sakte. Otherwise none of us has any issues."

Turning to the reporter, the Bollywood super star said: "I actually don't understand your question. We all have been under one roof many times and we are very proud of all the award functions, IIFA specially, around the world. Whenever we are called, we attend."

Further, King Khan angrily said: "Your channel said (some time ago) that I am not going to a function because Mr Bachchan is there. That's not true. That's rubbish. But we cannot question your rubbish...(like that) we are so small-minded...All of us come together whenever we have the time to perform, especially when we go to present our best face internationally, like here in Toronto."

Jermaine fails to match MJ

Toronto: With his red bejeweled jacket and incessant pelvic thrusts, American musician Jermaine Jackson rocked the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Rocks here.

Jermaine was the first performer at the IIFA Rocks at the Ricoh Coliseum. It is a fashion and music event held as part of the ongoing IIFA celebrations here.

The occasion was the eve of the second death anniversary of his younger brother Michael Jackson. But despite Jermaine's effort, MJ's magic was missed by the audience.

After a short welcome by filmmaker Karan Johar, Jermaine took the stage, and belted out three of his numbers. He did little jigs and pelvic thrusts as male dancers swayed behind him wearing black hats a la those popularly worn by MJ. But none could compare the poise, the flexibility, the style and the enthusiasm of Michael, who died June 25, 2009.

"Michael was of a different league...His moves were so amazing, his stage presence was unmatched...But it is really nice of Jermaine to have agreed to perform for a Bollywood show," Sunita Arya, an Indian living in Toronto, said after Jermaine's performance.

Jitendra Singh, another Bollywood enthusiast who came for the show, said: "The performance was good.

When an international singer comes and performs at an Indian event, it just goes to show how far our Hindi film industry has reached. We are far from our country, but these small moments make us feel very proud."

Singers Sonu Niigaam and Jermaine Jackson pay tribute to late Michael Jackson during IIFA Rocks.

Jermaine, who sang three of his numbers including "Can you feel it", also teamed up with Indian singer Sonu Niigaam to present a tribute song for Michael and said it was a "special moment" for him to perform at the IIFA. The duo performed a track "This is it" against a backdrop full of glimpses from Michael's life. The song was written and composed by Niigaam following Michael's death.

"I thank Jermaine Jackson for singing this song that I wrote teary-eyed when Michael Jackson died. And see the magic...Michael sent his most respected elder brother to sing this song with me," said Niigaam, dressed in a black jacket, with metal embellishments.

IIFA is Indian kitsch: Deepa Mehta

Toronto: Indo-Canadian filmmaker Deepa Mehta has described the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards as "Indian kitsch".

The Bollywood show does not represent Indian culture, the Oscar-nominated filmmaker said.

"Bollywood is not Indian culture, it's pop culture. There's a big difference," Mehta told the Canadian Press.

To describe the IIFA Awards as

Filmmaker Deepa Mehta.

representation of Indian culture is just like calling teen pop sensation Justin Bieber a representative of Canadian culture, the "Water" director said.

She said North America can hardly add much to Bollywood's bottom line. "It's hardly relevant.

Of course there's a (North American) audience but it's a very limited audience. It's an audience that really is comprised of Southeast Asians," Mehta said.

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Will IIFA influence Ontario elections?

he International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards in Toronto may play a huge role in the re-election of Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty in the October elections.

The premier, described as "a great friend of India", went to Mumbai in 2008 to woo IIFA organizers to come to Toronto.

With his political fortunes in the doldrums and the politically influential Indian Canadians dumping his Liberal Party for the first time (as proved in the May general elections), the premier pumped $12

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million into the show to reap political benefits.

And, not surprisingly, most green-carpet ceremonies and world premieres have been allotted to the Indian-dominated city of Brampton, which sends quite a few Indian Canadians to the Ontario assembly.

The premier of Canada's most important province was his charming best at the opening of the IIFA show. Recalling his Mumbai visit, the premier said: "I found myself surrounded by dozens of photographers in the cool night air. The camera flashes in my face were mes-

Mallika gets up close with Premier his one never misses a golden chance. After getting clicked with US President Barack Obama, Indian actress Mallika Sherawat was seen in conversation with Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty at the Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty with International actor Mallika Sherawat.

Indian Film Anil Kapoor, Dia Mirza, Bipasha Academy (IIFA) extravaganza.

The actress, who has made a name Basu, Boman Irani, Riteish for herself in the international press Deshmukh, Anupam Kher, Subhash thanks to her appearance with Jackie Ghai, Satish Kaushik and Sonu Chan at the Cannes International Niigaam, who were invited on stage Film Festival for Chinese film "The for the inaugural press conference Myth", is here for the premiere of for the three-day IIFA Weekend and her forthcoming movie "Double Awards.

While all the actors moved down Dhamaal" and to promote her interthe stage, Mallika chose to stay on national project "Politics of Love".

"This is my first time at the IIFA and engaged the Premier in some awards. I just want to enjoy and animated conversation, inviting sevhave a great time," said Mallika, eral clicks from the paparazzi in the who will also groove to Bollywood bargain. Surprisingly, this was the same Mallika, who was hiding away tracks at the awards night Saturday.

Unusually dressed in a sari, with a from the media, and refused to talk simple blouse, Mallika was among a to mediapersons at a midnight marhost of Bollywood celebrities like ket here Wednesday night.

merizing, overwhelming, intoxicating, lovely - until one of the photographers distinctly said to me 'Sir, you are ruining my shot of Celina Jaitley'. I have never recovered from that."

He added: "But in truth, that night, I truly began to understand what Indian cinema is all about. It's about more than glamour, action and drama. It is about magic ... the kind that happens when the lights go down and the stars come out. It is about stories that are universal and that bring us together, that help us celebrate out shared humanity."

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty addresses the audience.

'Double Dhamaal' cast creates dhamaal!

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Bipasha Basu, Ritesh Deshmukh and Boman Irani on stage during an introductory press conference in Toronto. he "chandaal chaukdi" Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Ashish Chaudhary, Jaaved Jaffery - along with the girls Mallika Sherawat and Kangana Ranaut, sent Bollywood fans here in a tizzy as they walked the green carpet for the world premiere of their comedy movie "Double Dhamaal", on the first day of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend and Awards.

The four male actors are referred to as "chandaal chaukdi" in the movie, directed by Indra

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Kumar.

The actors didn't walk the carpet together, but attracted immense attention from the thousand plus Indian as well as Canadian fans, who waited for hours to catch a glimpse of their favorite Hindi filmstars, outside the SilverCity theater in Brampton.

The "Double Dhamaal" stars felt enthused to see the energy of the fans, and seemed extremely excited about shaking hands with them, and even waving at them 'Hollywood style'. "It's fantas-

tic...the reception here is so heart warming," said Mallika, who was dressed in a black and gold Indian ensemble by fashion designer Anita Dongre.

Fans kept shouting out the names of the actors - indicating the popularity of Bollywood stars in Ontario, the host of the threeday IIFA extravaganza this year.

Fans were so enthused that they gave a huge shout to even Aarti Chhabbria, who has been off the Bollywood radar for sometime, but participated in the actionadventure show "Khatron Ke Khiladi Torchaar" recently.

The first green carpet also saw celebrities like Anil Kapoor, Boman Irani, Lisa Ray, Zayed Khan, Genelia D'Souza - all attracting equal attention.

There was a lot of demand for Anil Kapoor, who has made a name for himself in the international market after projects like "Slumdog Millionaire" and TV series "24". He also recently shot in Toronto for "Mission Impossible 4", and is gearing up to shoot for "Cities" around November this year.

The green carpet was followed by the screening of "Double Dhamaal", which turned out to be quite a dampener.

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A cacophony of sounds from the audience greeted the stars on the IIFA awards night in Toronto, proving that Bollywood love really knows no bounds. We give you a glimpse of the excitement of the crowd and the glamor of the stars as they showered their love for India cinema

They came and stole hearts...

Anushka Sharma accepts the trophy for Best Leading Role Female during the 2011 International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards.

Stars dazzle on stage

Actor Irrfan Khan greets the media upon arrival for IIFA awards.

Actor couple Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora Khan arrive on stage to give an award during IIFA Rocks

Singer Sonu Nigam performs during IIFA Rocks, part of IIFA 2011 awards.

Australian cricketer Brett Lee during a fashion show at IIFA Rocks.

Actor Dia Mirza performing during the IIFA Rocks event.

Actor Sonakshi Sinha and other models present jewelry from Gitanjali during IIFA Rocks.

Actor Mallika Sherawat performs during IIFA Rocks.

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Everyone is a star here! ust as Bollywood fans in Toronto went "Shah Rukh! Shah Rukh!", it was rather surprising to see them cheer and applaud, even if half as loudly, for names like Vivaan Bhatena, and Aarti Chhabbria, who are usually given a miss by the media back home in India.

Vivaan, who walked the green carpet during the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) extravaganza which concluded here Saturday, was himself taken aback at the kind of response he got.

"Nobody cares about us in India...but this is amazing. What a lovely reception," said Vivaan, a former model, who has done few TV shows and essayed the role of Abhimanyu Singh, the vice captain of the Indian cricket team, in the 2007 film "Chak De! India".

Aarti, who recently participated in actionadventure reality TV series "Khatron Ke Khiladi Torchaar", also received a warm welcome from the fans, who lined up at all

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Filmmaker Karan Johar and actor Anushka Sharma host IIFA Rocks in Toronto.

Desi girls opt for western outfits rom long, trailed, ruffled to off-shoulder gowns - B-town beauties like Sonakshi Sinha and Sridevi flaunted gowns on the IIFA green carpet and teamed it up with Victorian hairdos.

From young actresses like Genelia D'Souza, Amrita Puri, Prachi Desai and Sonakshi Sinha to the senior lot including Sridevi, Shilpa Shetty, Bipasha Basu, Amisha Patel, Malaika Arora Khan - all of them sported different variety of gowns. Even Mallika Sherawat, Neha Dhupia and Dia Mirza came in gowns at the at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards ceremony.

Short, long, trailed, ruffled, offshoulder, single shoulder - the variety was there for all to see.

However, what was noteworthy was that most of the actresses chose to go with nude shades, and subdued embroidery or embellishments.

Sridevi, who announced her comeback to the film industry at the IIFA, looked stunning in a bright red, full length, off-shoulder gown. She had teamed it up with a sparkling diamond neckpiece.

Mallika, who wore a sari on the first day of IIFA, came dressed in an animal print long dress for the main night, while Shilpa Shetty and Sonakshi chose to go blingy black with long dresses.

Prachi Desai, who won an award for her supporting performance in "Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai",

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cade starting in the morning itself, but even kept roaming around the Fairmont Royal York Hotel throughout the day in the hope of getting a picture taken or grabbing a chance for an autograph. They sang, danced and cheered even when actors walked out of the hotel for shopping and sight-seeing.

When yesteryears sex symbol Zeenat Aman walked out of the hotel, she had a trail of people behind her, and a middleaged lady broke into a dance on hit number "Dum maaro dum". It brought a smile to Zeenat's face.

At the popular downtown mall, the Eaton Center, people gathered around Kabir Bedi to get themselves photographed.

The frenzy was there for all see at the IIFA Rocks - a music and fashion event where the audience just kept clapping and cheering whenever the camera zoomed in on an actor - so much so that the voice of the hosts - Karan Johar, and actress Anushka Sharma - couldn't be heard.

SRK teaches dance to audience hah Rukh Khan never fails to charm! Even if his knee injury restrained him from putting on his usual high-voltage performance, the Bollywood badshah chose to make his audience dance to his steps, and Salman Khan's too!

"If I can't dance, I'll make sure everyone dances here in Toronto tonight," he said as he spoke to the over 20,000-strong audience at the Roger's Center for the 12th IIFA awards ceremony.

He took the help of choreographer Shiamak Davar's troupe members in getting thousands of people dancing in the stadium, a key landmark in Toronto.

Teaching his fans how to sway to "Say shava shava", Shah Rukh suggested the fans to presume they had to "pull the flush and knock the

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Shah Rukh Khan leaving for green carpet welcome. door". Shah Rukh threw another surprise when he chose the title track of his friend-turned-foe Salman Khan's "Dabangg" for the

activity. He even imitated the typical Salman step wherein he keeps his hands inside the pants' pockets, and moves them side to side.

IIFA music workshop a smash hit

Actor Bipasha Basu at IIFA. wore a green dress "in support of IIFA's green movement".

Bipasha and Amisha landed themselves in a fashion faux pas as they sported similar looking dresses on the green carpet, except that Bipasha's dress was beige, and Amisha's an into-the-eye sunshine yellow. However, there were some guests from fildom who splashed desi style - Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman, Sharmila Tagore, Hema Malini, and younger actresses like Esha Deol and Aarti Chhabbria sported saris. Later Anushka Sharma, winner of this year's best actress award, was seen in a sari too.

green carpet events of the three-day Bollywood extravaganza.

Even Amisha Patel, who was last seen in a cameo in "Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic", managed to draw shout outs from the locals when she took to the carpet. In fact, a huge crowd gathered outside an outlet of coffee store Tim Horton's when Amisha stepped in to sip on some coffee for a relaxing time.

Actress Mahie Gill also entered amid much cheer, but was baffled when an international mediaperson asked her: "Who are you? What have you done?"

She said: "I was in a film called 'Dev D'."

This year, the IIFA saw the biggest turnout of Indian and international fans. In fact, veteran star Anupam Kher said: "If there was ever an IIFA award for the best edition of IIFA, it should undoubtedly go to Toronto because this was the best reception we could have ever got."

The fans are crazy about Bollywood. They not just started lining up behind the barri-

Singer Shankar Mahadevan performs during IIFA Rocks. he IIFA Music Workshop was a huge success.

Established to bridge the gap between India and the host country by means of sharing and promoting the music of both countries, the workshop was an ideal platform for Indian and International musi-

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cians and other professionals to interact and share ideas with emerging talent, professionals and other interested parties. The workshop was conducted by lyricist Javed Akthar, Vishal Bhardwaj, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, and music composer Salim Merchant. In an interactive session with the audience the panel will compose a song in conjunction with them. The workshop incorporated a lot of interaction between the musicians and the audience.The audience comprised of aspiring students, industry professionals and anyone all those who shared an interest in the music of Indian Cinema.

Also present in the audience was Lekha Bhardwaj, Subhash Ghai, Manmohan Shetty, Shyam Shroff and Shabana Azmi. Live compositions took place as Javed wrote a few line for a song while Shanker Ehsaan Loy composed the music for it on stage, Lekha Bhardwaj sung the iconic song 'Darrrling' for her husband. Salim Merchant gave impromptu performances in the piano as a special treat for all.

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Kishore’s tunes inspire 'Jhumru' emember "Main hun jhum jhum jhum jhum jhumru..."? This popular number and many other such hummable tunes by legendary actor-singer Kishore Kumar, have inspired a new Bollywood musical titled "Jhumru", to be showcased at the Kingdom of Dreams in India, starting October.

"We have started work on a new musical. It's called 'Jhumru', and it is inspired by Kishore Kumar," Viraf Sarkari, director, Wizcraft International Entertainment, co-owners of Kingdom of Dreams, said during IIFA. The musical will be the second to be showcased at Kingdom of Dreams in Gurgaon, after the success of "Zangoora: The Gypsy Prince".

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A new Bollywood musical titled 'Jhumru' will be showcased at the Kingdom of Dreams in India.

While "Zangoors" is a riveting tale of a gypsy boy who finds out that he is actually a king, the new musical will be comical in genre.

"It's going to be about a

young executive, who is a great fan of Kishore Kumar, but he can't sing for nuts.

Just to impress a girl, he enters a music contest, and the spirit of Kishore Kumar enters into him.

What happens next will form the comical show," added Sarkari.

Kishoreda, as the singer-actor was popularly known, sang some unforgettable numbers like "Paanch rupaiya baara aana", "Zindagi ka safar", "Pal, pal dil ke paas" and "Eena meena deeka" in his career, and proved his versatility every time.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who was present at the time of the announcement, said: "'Jhumru' is one of my favorite retro tracks," and

before the audience knew it, the charming actor sang four lines of the song for the international media, inviting a round of cheer and applause.

The news of the new musical comes after officials at

Wizcraft, organizers of the ongoing International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend here, announced that "Zangoora: The Gypsy Prince" will be taken on a world tour in 2012.

Spotted: Shashi Tharoor! riter-politician Shashi Tharoor made for an unusual, but charming presence at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA), and with his dapper looks, he could well have been mistaken for an actor too!

Tharoor unexpectedly barged into the media center while looking for someone, and received a string of hellos from

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Indian journalists.

"What are you doing here Mr. Tharoor?" he was asked.

He flashed a smile, and said: "I was here to speak at a business forum, and yes, I'll be around for IIFA as well."

Tharoor is being accompanied by his wife Sunanda Krishnan.

Guess both of them need to catch up on some Bollywood masala to spice.

A street called Raj Kapoor t was a picture-perfect moment. Bollywood's ultimate showman Raj Kapoor's wife, three sons, daughters and daughter-inlaw were all in town for the official naming ceremony of the Raj Kapoor Crescent - a new street in a city on Toronto's outskirts known for its large South Asian population.

It was a rare moment to see Krishna Raj Kapoor, Randhir, Rishi, Rajiv, Reema, Ritu and Neetu together on the same stage as Susan Fennell, mayor of Brampton unveiled the placard of the street name at the Rose Theater.

"We shall always cherish this moment. We are greatly honored and proud that my father has been honored miles away from India. We thank you Brampton for this love," said Randhir.

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Toronto's Brampton Street has been renamed AS Raj Kapoor Crescent.

Fennell, who was dressed for the occasion in a green and gold Indian suit, urged the big fat family to pose for a classic portrait, which she wishes to present to them on a visit to India in February next year.

Raj Kapoor's grandchildren Ranbir and Kareena too were expected to be at the event, but they couldn't

make it due to their busy shooting schedules, said Randhir.

Toronto, organized a Raj Kapoor retrospective where a total of 15 of his iconic films were screened including "Aag", "Awara", "Shree 420" and "Sangam", as part of Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

'R.K. Films will be back' t's been over a decade since the R.K.Films produced any film, but if Randhir Kapoor is to be believed, the banner will be back into business soon.

"The last film we produced was 'Aa Ab Laut Chalein'.

It wa released in 1999. I know it's been a long time...but we will make a film soon,"

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said Randhir here.

Randhir also said that they will be open to work with the new wave of directors in the film industry, and might even give a chance to a beginner. R.K.BFilms was formed in 1948. There were talks that Raj Kapoor's grandson, actor Ranbir Kapoor has plans to revive the banner.

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A Green Carpet Welcome Actor Sonu Sood reacts receiving Best Performance in Negative Role award during IIFA.

Actor Shabana Azmi speaks to the media ahead of IIFA event.

Actor Zayed Khan greets the crowds.

Best actress nominee Sonakshi Sinha with actor Gulshan Grover during a green carpet event.

Actor/singer Jermaine Jackson poses with a guest.

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Big names backing IIFA Ontario Govt: Hosts of IIFA Celebrations Toronto was the first North American city to host the IIFA Awards.

Canada has an Asian population of over 960,000, with 550,000 Indians living in the Greater Toronto Area. This gives Indian cinema a huge audience in Canada and makes it a popular form of entertainment. Known for its cultural, entertainment and metropolitan scene, Toronto was an ideal choice for IIFA 2011. Toronto is considered a global city and is one of the top financial centers in the world.

Infiniti Canada Official Automotive Partner Infiniti vehicles were used to transport all the celebrities to and from events, ensuring that they arrive in style.

Stars arrived on the Green Carpet at IIFA Awards Presentation Ceremony on June 25th at Rogers Center in luxurious fleet of Infiniti vehicles.

I n f i n i t i ’s We e k e n d o f I n s p i r e d Performances contest winners got a chance to win an All- Access package for the IIFA Weekend and Awards.

Ian L. Forsyth, Director of Corporate P l a n n i n g a n d B u s i n e s s St r a t e g y a t Infiniti Canada Inc., provided insights on the company’s clean technology at t h e F I C C I – I I FA G l o b a l B u s i n e s s Forum.

The company also featured its latest addition to its line up, the Infiniti M® Hybrid at the Brampton Silver City theatre.

Star Plus Broadcast Partner Star Plus has been the exclusive global broadcast partner of the IIFA Awards for the last seven years. Through Star Plus, the 2011 IIFA Awards will reach out to more than 345 million viewers spread over 65 countries across the globe.

The Bay & Grey Goose Presenting Partner, IIFA ROCKS The prestigious IIFA Rocks was presented by Grey Goose and The Bay, a fashion and music event that featured designers Rajesh Pratap Singh, designe r s f r o m T h e B a y, S a b y a s a c h i a n d Vikram Phadnis, who showcased their collections to the music of ShankarEhsaan-Loy. The Bay is a chain of 90 department stores across Canada.

Air India Airline Partner Air India, which has 96 aircraft, has been the official carrier of the 12th IIFA. The national carrier has been operating full flight from Delhi and Mumbai to Toronto since June 21. During the IIFA Awards inaugural press conference, mascot of Air India -- Maharaja -- was unveiled by India''s Counsel General P r e e t i S h a r a n a n d C h i t r a S a r k a r, Executive Director America and Europe, along with actors Bomman Irani, Rietish Deshmukh and Bipasha Basu.

Panasonic – Ideas for life Greening the IIFAs

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)

Panasonic is attempting to persuade audiences towards an eco-friendly environment by associating itself with IIFA. Manish Sharma, Director - Marketing, Panasonic India said, "Our association as the ‘Greening' partner of IIFA provides us with a platform to communicate our philosophy of ‘Eco Ideas' that champions the cause of a greener environment."

Floriana

Canada Presenting Sponsor

Videocon D2H Title Sponsor IIFA Weekend Videocon Group has been associated with IIFA for the last three years. IIFA has been a pioneer in taking Indian cinema global. This is in keeping with the pioneering status of Videocon D2H in the Indian DTH market through continuous product innovations and the use of latest technology to make television viewing a better experience.

CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with nearly 11 million personal banking and business clients. CIBC offers a full range of products and services through its comprehensive electronic banking network, branches and offices across Canada, and has offices in the United States and around the world.

CIBC was the presenting sponsor of the IIFA Weekend and Awards as well as Bollywood Under The Stars from May 31st to June 26th.

Cineplex Official Cinema Partner The IIFA Film Festival showcased some of the biggest blockbuster films that have created a mark in the history of Indian Cinema. Screenings were held in various Cineplex locations in the Greater Toronto Area.

Gitanjali Presenting Sponsor IIFA World Premiere - Double Dhamaal On June 24th, the night came to a starry end with Infiniti IIFA World Premiere of the film, Double Dhamaal preceded by the IIFA Green Carpete.

Infiniti and Gitanjali Lifestyle were the Presenting Sponsors for the event.

Title Sponsor IIFA Awards Floriana group got associated with IIFA for the first time this year. An enterprise, started in 1993, has blossomed into a multi-dimensional business conglomerate in a span of less than two decades. The diversification of business interests ranges from essential oils, herbal oils, speciality perfumery compounds, wellness, education, agri-business & marble mining. processing and marketing, reaping rich dividends for the group. The group has set its eyes on becoming a US$ 5 billion company by 2015. The company is based in New Delhi, India.

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anada’s largest metropolis hosted IIFA’s 2011 celebration with much ado.

Multiculturalism gives Toronto its colorful character, with more than 100 languages spoken here.

There’s a lot to explore in its diverse neighborhoods, ethnic cuisine and rich cultural legacy. One can experience cultural events that are unparalleled, including the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the largest public film festival in the world.

Whether with family or friends, there are always new memories to be made and places to discover in Ontario. Iconic attractions inspire every family member, whether you’re seeing Niagara Falls or the CN Tower for the first time. Cities are filled with historic spots and attractions for young and old alike and small towns have lots of hidden gems.

It’s a province steeped in heritage, from historic Parliament buildings to Aboriginal experiences. And it’s a province that celebrates its diversity, with thousands of cultural festivals.

Visitors to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) will enjoy exploring waterfront parks in Mississauga’s ‘village on the lake’ or taking in a rousing performance at the nearby Living Arts Center. Discover Brampton and its colorful character, both on the stage and on garden tours. And be sure to see the legendary Niagara Falls and Niagara Wine Region – only a short drive away.

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Shopping Toronto’s eclectic markets, boutiques, malls and galleries are a shopper’s paradise. Discover the Toronto Eaton Centre right in the heart of the city, featuring more than 250 shops, services and restaurants. Be sure to visit Little India, home to the Gerrard India Bazaar, North America’s largest South Asian market.

Attractions Toronto’s attractions offer a daily adventure – from fun theme parks and gorgeous gardens to fantastic festivals and fairs! Zoom 342 m (1,122 ft.) up to the CN Tower’s Observation Deck – the panoramic view will take your breath away. Take the family to the world-famous Toronto Zoo and visit ‘Gorilla Rainforest’. Get ‘hands-on’ at the Ontario Science Centre, where learning stuff is so much fun! Check out Ontario Place and cool off at Froster Soak City, Toronto’s only downtown waterpark. There’s something for everyone at the Hockey Hall of

IIFA spotlight on magical Ontario

Toronto skyline at night Fame, which celebrates Canada’s national sport.

Waterfront One of the city’s best-kept secrets is its beautiful waterfront, located on the edge of an inland sea – Lake Ontario. Browse the elegant shops of Harborfront and explore Toronto’s Harborfront Centre, a creative hub for arts and culture. Just a 10-minute ferry ride away you’ll find the Toronto Islands, a quiet world of tree–canopied picnic spots, quaint cottages and Centreville – an amusement park for young children.

Neighborhood The neighborhoods of Toronto are bursting with character. The 200-year-old St. Lawrence Market is home to more than 120 specialty merchants displaying locally grown produce, delicatessen specialties and wines. Toronto’s Historic Distillery District celebrates the city’s rich past with North America’s best-preserved collection of Victorian Industrial architecture, and has become a centre of arts, culture and entertainment. Head to the east end of Queen Street to visit the Beach (also known as ‘The Beaches’),

where quaint and quirky stores wait to be discovered. After a bit of browsing, stroll along the 3-km (2 mi.) boardwalk that follows the scenic shoreline of Lake Ontario.

Art & Culture If you love art, culture and history, you’ll fall in love with Toronto’s museums and galleries, some of which are works of art themselves. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one such example, having undergone a stunning redesign by renowned architect, Frank Gehry in 2008.

You must see the gorgeous Galeria Italia, a gleaming showcase made of wood and glass. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum, combining both world culture and natural history.

History and Architecture Cross the threshold of Toronto’s many architectural gems, past and present. ExploreCasa Loma, an enchanting Edwardian castle complete with beautiful gardens, decorated suites and a ‘secret’ 240 m (800-ft.) passageway.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir complex has become a source of wonder for local citizens and visitors alike. Its breathtaking

design fuses traditional Indian architecture with modern technology and is constructed with 24,000 pieces of marble and stone.

Fort York National Historic Site is the birthplace of modern Toronto. Take a guided tour and watch fascinating musket, drill and music demonstrations.

Theatre and shows The curtain rises on a diverse range of performing arts in Toronto. If you’re partial to musicals, this is the place to be! Your whole family will love the awardwinning musical The Lion King/ Then, Dancap Productions bring South Pacific to Toronto. Ballet’s on the bill at the Sony Center for the Performing Arts, where you can also catch popular music, classical music, films and modern dance performances.

Sports Toronto’s professional sports teams provide year-round excitement. Catch a Major League baseball game with the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre. Watch the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts play their exciting brand of football – also under the night sky of the Rogers

Centre (the roof is retractable!).

Visit BMO field for intense Major League Soccer action and cheer for the home side at a Toronto FCgame. If playing sports is more your thing, there are numerous soccer (football) and cricket pitches located throughout the city.

Greater Toronto Area Visit Mississauga, a diverse suburb of the Greater Toronto Area, complete with leisure spaces and entertainment. Relax with family in green parks and trails along the waterfront in Port Credit. Explore the award-winning City Centre, the heart of the community, and home of the Sports Hall of Fame and Art Gallery of Mississauga.

Or applaud at the Living Arts Centre, a cultural hub for the performing arts.

Known for a rich multicultural community and a bounty of blooms, Brampton is another GTA hot spot. Nicknamed the ‘Flowertown of Canada’, and internationally recognized by Communities in Bloom, Brampton offers self-guided floral tours through lush parks and beautiful gardens.

For more info visit www.seetorontonow.com.

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Around the world with India’s own Oscars IFA -- the International Indian Film Academy—aims to promote Indian cinema across the globe. Instituted in 2000, IIFA awards honor achievements in the Indian film world and of Asians in international movie world. It binds Indians across the globe.

Internationally, it plays the vital role of opening up minds and building bridges between social and economic islands to create a one-world mindset leading to a harmony more powerful than politics and war.

The three founder-directors of IIFA came from different walks of life. Andre Timmins started off as a disc jockey and landed up in Xanadu, the famous nightclub of Mumbai. Viraf Sarkari, a professional in hotel management joined him at Xanadu. Sabbas Joseph coming from the world of political science and journalism, completed the triad.

IIFA is the first attempt of its type in India. Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt. India, event management as well as entertainment agency, has given the lead in this field. For this purpose every year awards are given out. The mega event takes place in a different country every year to honor the creative and technical merit of those connected with Indian film world, mainly Hindi cinema. The voting process is transparent as chalked out by the IIFA management in conjunction with Price Waterhouse Cooper. Fans vote via MSN. There are two groups –

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Since 2000, IIFA (International Indian Film Academy) has been instrumental in making Indian cinema more and more popular across the globe. that are usually neglected but yet play a vital role in the industry – the comedian, negative actors and playback singers.

The IIFA advisory board boasts eminent personalities from various facets of film making, marketing and acting-- Amitabh Bachchan, David Dhawan, Jaya Bachchan, Karan Johar, Manmohan Shetty, Ramesh Sippy and Shyam Shroff.

The distinguished board lends IIFA respect and credibility throughout the world.

Amitabh Bachchan was IIFA Brand Ambassador till 2010.

Popular Awards and Technical Awards. It is a four-day bonanza in an exotic locale, which enchants the host country with press meetings, parties, movie premiers, business pow-wow and special events. The first IIFA Awards were kicked off in 2000 in London at the Millennium Dome. In the following years till 2007 the venue was Sun City (South Africa), Genting Highlands (Malaysia), Johannesburg (South Africa), Singapore, Amsterdam (Netherlands), Dubai (UAE) and Yorkshire (UK).

Indian cinema gravitates around Bollywood, the name being an informal reference to the Hindi films based in Mumbai. The

Bollywood heart throb Hrithik Roshan performing at IIFA 2010 in Sri Lanka. world at large is not yet familiar with other regional films, for example Tamil films is also a big industry based in Chennai.

Bollywood is a concoction of Bombay and Hollywood. Many are not happy about making the giant Indian film industry playing second fiddle to its American counterpart. But the name has stuck and found its niche in the Oxford Dictionary.

The predominant language in Bollywood films is Hindu or rather Hindustani, with a smattering of Urdu, though use of Urdu is n the decline. English too has

crept in lately. In recent years a growing tendency is to dub films in a language aside from the one in which it was made. This has made films more pan Indian and international.

IIFA events are hosted in new countries each year because Indian diaspora is spread far and wide. Indian culture is very much interwoven in the fabric of South East Asia and being incorporated warmly in other parts of the world including the Arab world, Israel and lately Africa and Afghanistan. IIFA has the distinction of recognizing zones

Shilpa Shetty performing at IIFA 2007.

Growing bigger and bigger IIFA 2000: The Millennium Dome, London The IIFA 2000 won the hearts of the world in its debut performance. A host of world artists including Jackie Chan, Angelina Jolie, Kylie Minogue and others bedazzled the Millennium Dome with their presence. It was the first time that the entire Indian Film Industry went into polls and voted for its peers.

IIFA 2001: Sun City, South Africa As Indian Film stars and performers descended on Sun City, film enthusiasts from around the globe swarmed the city. The first ever IIFA World Premier was held for the film Lagaan, which went on to win an Oscar nomination.

IIFA 2002: Malaysia IIFA Weekend and Awards’ jour-

ney went eastward. The venue to be bedazzled was the exotic Genting Highlands Resort, Malaysia. The first ever IIFA Forum was part of the event.

IIFA 2003: Johannesburg, South Africa In 2003, IIFA returned to South Africa, to the sun-kissed shores of Johannesburg. While the IIFA Forum discussed piracy and explored new revenue streams, the first ever IIFA Foundation Charity Celebrity Cricket match was organized at the Centurion ground.

IIFA 2004: Singapore Over 450 stars, cricketers, celebs, industrialists and government leaders descended upon Singapore for IIFA 2004 – a destination as colorful as Indian Cinema itself. The event also witnessed the World Premier of Mani

Ratnam’s Yuva in Hindi and Aayitha Ezhuthu in Tamil.

IIFA 2005: Amsterdam, Netherlands For the sixth IIFA Weekend and Awards, the picturesque Amsterdam – the city of water – was chosen. With its unique blend of stars, glamour and entertainment, Indian Cinema left the city dazzled. The first ever IIFA Film Festival was inaugurated by Yash Chopra.

IIFA 2006: Dubai In 2006, IIFA went to Indian Film Industry’s home away from home – Dubai. Multicultural audience of over 10,000 people from around the globe gathered to witness the most spectacular event of the year. IIFA Weekend in Dubai won the Best International Global Event in South Asia that year.

IIFA 2007: Yorkshire An estimated 30,000 overseas visitors arrived in Yorkshire for IIFA Weekend 2007, which was jointly hosted by 4 other cities.

IIFA Film Festival, IIFA-BAFTA Film Workshop, FICCI-IIFA Global Business Forum and finally the IIFA Awards – the world watched in awe while IIFA celebrated Indian Cinema’s achievements.

IIFA 2008: Bangkok, Thailand Year 2008 saw IIFA Weekend and Award reach the amazing Thailand. The event was held at Bangkok’s Siam Niramit – renowned for world class performance of Thailand’s art and cultural heritage. The Idea IIFA Awards was India’s biggest media event with a viewership of almost 600 million.

IIFA 2009: Macao, China IIFA Weekend and Awards celebrated a decade of its genesis in all the grandeur of the Indian Film Industry itself.

Videocon IIFA Weekend in Macao was a culmination of mega events that included high profile FICCI-IIFA Global Business Forum, IIFA Fashion Extravaganza, IIFA World Premiers and the spectacular Idea IIFA Awards.

IIFA 2010: Colombo, Sri Lanka The IIFA awards honor films from the previous calendar year.

Amitabh Bachchan has been the Brand Ambassador of IIFA until 2010, when he quit over controversy about holding that year's event in Sri Lanka. Salman Khan replaced him.

India Newswire TheSouthAsianTimes.info

25

July 2-8, 2011

'I'm not a lame-duck PM' New Delhi: At his interaction with some editors here on June 29, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh characterized the perception that he is a “lame- duck” Prime Minister running a “comatose” government as a “clever propaganda” of the Opposition to which some sections of the media had lent an ear. “I am not helpless. All the bad things that this government has done, I accept full responsibility.”

As for voices from senior Congress functionaries that the time had come for Rahul Gandhi to take over as Prime Minister, Dr. Singh maintained that the Congress president and the party had entrusted him with the job, and he had not heard any “contrarian view.”

However, he went on to add, “Personally, if you ask me, the gen-

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh interacting with the senior print media editors in New Delhi on June 29. eral proposition that younger peo- happy to step down, but so long as ple should take over … is the right I am here I have a job to do.” sentiment.” Whenever the party “Congress high command sup“makes up its mind I will be very portive”

India, US to deepen economic ties

Dr. Singh told the editors that he got the “maximum possible cooperation” from Congress president Sonia Gandhi, whom he meets oneon-one every week. He had never felt that she was an obstacle to things his government wanted to do. “In fact, the Congress high command has always been most supportive, particularly Mrs. Gandhi.”

“Lokpal not a panacea” Dr. Singh insisted that while the Lokpal was essential and desirable, it was not a “panacea.” Asked about the debate on whether or not the Prime Minister should be under the purview of the Lokpal, he said: “I, for one, have no hesitation in bringing myself under the purview of the Lokpal,” but added that many of his Cabinet colleagues felt

Rahul, Mayawati face-off on July 9 Greater Noida: The political temperature of Greater Noida and its surrounding areas is all set to rise on July 9. On that day, while Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi will address the Kisan Mahapanchayat, Chief Minister Mayawati will also visit the area to inaugurate the Anand ViharVaishali Metro line.

On June 28, the Congress decided to hold Kisan Mahapanchayat on July 9 to highlight the issues of farmers, especially regarding land acquisition. The date was finalized at a high-level meeting of senior party leaders.

“Our first choice for organizing the Mahapanchayat was at Bhatta Parsaul followed by Jevar, Dankaur and Bilaspur. We will send our request to hold the

July 9 will be the D-day for Rahul Gandhi to take on the Mayawati govt.

Mahapanchayat in any of these places and wait for the administra-

Gujarat riots: Vital evidence destroyed Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, along with US Secretary of the Treasury Timothy Geithner and CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee during the Conference on US-India Economic & Financial Partnership, in Washington DC on June 27.

Washington DC: India and the United States have agreed to work together to expand trade and investment links between their two economies, and to develop and strengthen their financial systems.

They would also "work together in the G-20 on an effective mutual assessment process to bring about strong, sustained, and balanced global growth," said a joint statement issued on June 28 on the conclusion of the second meeting of US-India Economic And Financial Partnership here.

"As two of the world's largest economies, the US-India relationship offers enormous eco-

nomic opportunities for Americans and Indians alike," Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and US Secretary of the Treasury Timothy Geithner who led the comprehensive talks between the two sides told a joint press conference.

The United States, the joint statement said, is "committed to making the investments in technology, skills, and infrastructure necessary to maintain and enhance US competitiveness in the global economy." On its part, "India intends to take steps to marshal private and public saving to meet the infrastructure needs of a rapidly growing Indian economy," it said.

that such a move would create “an element of instability which can go out of hand.”

Dr. Singh told the editors: “We can deal with corruption, we can deal with black money, but quite frankly it is wrong for anyone to assume there is a magic wand which will lead to an instant solution to of these difficult societal problems.” “We need system reforms. If the project Nandan Nilankani has promised to design, if the UIDAI can give unique ID numbers to all our residents, we would have discovered a new pathway to eliminate the scope for corruption and leakages in the management and distribution of various subsidies to which our people are entitled. But it will take time. It cannot be done instantly.”

New Delhi: Nine years and on, the victims of 2002 Godhra riots are still fighting for justice and to make the matter worse, crucial riot records including phone transactions, vehicle logbooks and official movements have been destroyed by the Modi government. The victims believe that the records have been deliberately destroyed.

The Gujarat government has destroyed crucial records pertaining to the 2002 riots. This comes from none other than the Narendra Modi government itself.

S.B. Vakil, state government counsel in the Nanavati Commission, said important records like incoming and outgoing call data, log books of government vehicles and officials' movement have been destroyed.

And that IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt is lying about being present in the meeting that Narendra Modi convened then, because he knows the

Victims of the 2002 Godhra riots believe that the crucial records have been deliberately destroyed by the Modi government. official records no longer exist.

“Records of incoming and outgoing phone calls, vehicle logbooks cannot be found,” said Vakil.

tion’s approval,” said Congress state chief Rita Bahuguna Joshi.

Maoists abduct US varsity researcher Patna: An American university researcher was abducted along with a local in Bihar's Jamui district by suspected Maoists, police said on June 30. Juhi Tyagi, in her mid 20s, a sociology research fellow at Stony Brook University in New York, was on a visit to the rural areas of Jamui in connection with her research on Maoist problems in India, they said.

Jamui Superintendent of Police Ram Narain Singh said that Tyagi, a resident of Bangalore, had been missing for the last two days along with a local, Pradeep Das. "Maoists abducted them from Nawada area under Kowakol police station and informed the family members of Das about it," he said.

The two were meeting some villagers, suspected to be Maoist sympathizers, he said.

26

Subcontinent & International

July 2-8, 2011

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Wildfire edges closer to US nuke lab Los Alamos: A wildfire near the desert birthplace of the atomic bomb advanced on the Los Alamos laboratory and thousands of outdoor drums of plutoniumcontaminated waste as authorities stepped up efforts to protect the site and monitor the air for radiation.

Officials at the premier US nuclear-weapons lab gave assurances that dangerous materials were safely stored and capable of withstanding flames from the 95square-mile fire, which at one

point was as close as 50 feet from the grounds.

Residents downwind are worried about the potential of a radioactive smoke plume if the flames reach thousands of barrels of waste stored in above-ground tents.

"If it gets to this contamination, it's over — not just for Los Alamos, but for Santa Fe and all of us in between," said Mai Ting, a resident who lives in the valley below the desert mesas that are home to the Los Alamos National

Doubts over accuser may see Strauss-Kahn case dropped New York: The sexual be released on his assault case against own recognizance, Dominique Straussand freed from Kahn is on the verge house arrest. of collapse as investiThe revelations gators have uncovered mark a stunning major holes in the change of fortune credibility of the for Mr. StraussDominique Strauss-Kahn , housekeeper who Kahn, who was a former IMF chief. charged that he leading candidate attacked her in his Manhattan hotel for the French presidency before suite in May, according to two well- being accused of sexually assaulting placed law enforcement officials. the woman who went to clean his Although forensic tests found luxury suite at the Sofitel New York. unambiguous evidence of a sexual Prosecutors from the office of encounter between Mr. Strauss- District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr., Kahn, a French politician, and the who initially were emphatic about woman, prosecutors do not believe the strength of the case and the much of what the accuser has told account of the victim, plan to tell the them about the circumstances or court on Friday that they “have about herself. problems with the case” based on Since her initial allegation on May what their investigators have dis14, the accuser has repeatedly lied, covered, and will disclose more one of the law enforcement officials details of their findings to the said. Senior prosecutors met with defense. lawyers for Mr. Strauss-Kahn on Law enforcement officials say the Thursday and provided details about woman had a phone conversation their findings, and the parties are with an incarcerated man within a discussing whether to dismiss the day of her encounter with Mr. felony charges. Among the discov- Strauss Kahn in which she discussed eries, one of the officials said, are the possible benefits of pursuing the issues involving the asylum applica- charges against him. The conversation of the 32-year-old housekeeper, tion was recorded. who is Guinean, and possible links That man, the investigators to criminal activities, including drug learned, had been arrested on dealing and money laundering. charges of possessing 400 pounds of Prosecutors and defense lawyers marijuana. He was among a number will return to State Supreme Court of individuals who made multiple in Manhattan on Friday morning, cash deposits, totaling around when Justice Michael J. Obus is $100,000, into the woman’s bank expected to consider easing the account over the last two years. The extraordinary bail conditions that he deposits were made in Arizona, imposed on Mr. Strauss-Kahn in the Pennsylvania, Georgia and New days after he was charged. He could York.

Laboratory.

Chris Valvarde, a resident of the Santa Clara Pueblo about 10 miles north of Los Alamos, questioned officials at a briefing Tuesday evening, asking whether they had evacuation plans for his community. Los Alamos, a town of 11,000, already sits empty after its residents were evacuated ahead of the blaze, which started Sunday.

"I know it's the worse scenario to think of," Valverde said. "But when the radiation leaks, are we prepared to get 2,000 people out?"

Officials at the premier US nuclear-weapons lab gave assurances that dangerous materials were safely stored.

US war on terror to cost $4.4 tn Washington: The US could end up spending nearly $4.4 trillion on the war on terror in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan, new research says.

Nearly 10 years after the declaration of a war on terror, the situation in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan have cost the US between $2.3 trillion to $2.7 trillion, according to the report by Brown University's Watson Institute for International Studies.

The report not only covered direct costs of post-

9/11 wars, but also included costs of caring for current and future war veterans and projected war spending from 2012 to 2020, Xinhua reported.

The final price tag for the wars will range from $3.7 trillion to $4.4 trillion, the report estimated.

The wars in the three countries have killed over 225,000 people.

Among the victims were 137,000 civilians. In addition, the wars have created over 7.8 million refugees.

Vacate airbase in Balochistan, Pak tells US Islamabad: Pakistan has told the US to withdraw its troops from the Shamsi airbase in Balochistan that has been used to launch drone attacks, a media report said.

Dawn reported that the Shamsi airbase will be vacated soon, while the Ghazi airbase in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has already been handed over to the Pakistan Air Force.

Defense Minister Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar said here Wednesday that the Americans had started moving equipment and materials from the Shamsi airbase.

An official said the government had decided to get the base vacated due to a significant reduction in the flow of US funds and the growing trust deficit between the two countries.

Mukhtar said that trust deficit had grown significantly after the May 2 raid by US commandos to

The Shamsi airbase in Balochistan. kill Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden who was hiding in Abbottabad city.

"One year ago they (Americans) thought differently; now they are not recognising the sacrifices and cooperation of the Pakistanis," the minister was

quoted as saying.

He said the trust deficit can be brought down if both Islamabad and Washington take the matter seriously. "It cannot be done unilaterally," he added.

He suggested a revision of the policy on the war against terror.

Sport & Business TheSouthAsianTimes.info

27

July 2-8, 2011

India vs WI: 2nd Test hangs in balance

Saina loses in Indonesia Open Jakarta: Terming the performance of Saina Nehwal in the Indonesia Open Super Series tourney as satisfactory, national coach Pullela Gopichand has said the badminton ace lost a keenly contested match against China's Yihan Wang after doing well in the tournament.

"Saina played excellently in the

final match and lost to Wang in a keenly contested match to miss her hat-trick. She is suffering from minor injuries but she is fit," the former All England Badminton Champion told reporters here.

Nehwal went down to Wang 1221, 23-21, 14-21 in a grueling tussle in the final of the Indonesia

Open Super Series badminton on June 26.

Gopichand said Saina, P. Kashyap and Anurag Thakkar had the potential to emerge as worldclass players. If they get proper training and coaches, then they can also perform better at international events, he said.

Sania-Elena enter Wimbledon semis

Ishant Sharma picked up his 100th Test wicket and finished with career-best figures of 6 for 55 as India got a 11-run first-innings lead in Barbados.

Bridgetown (Barbados): West Indies were struggling at 98 for five in their first innings in reply to India's 201 all out on the weatherhit second day of the second test match at Kensington Oval here on June 29.

Experienced duo of Shivnarine Chanderpaul (20) and Marlon Samuels (21) were at the crease for the hosts in the post-lunch session, first delayed and then interrupted by rain on resumption.

The hosts had resumed the day at an uncomfortable 30 for three but the health of their innings deteriorated further after the twin blow in the morning session.

Chanderpaul and Samuels kept the Indians at bay for about 20 overs as they defied the ferocious Indian fast bowling trio, led by Ishant Sharma.

Earlier, Ishant struck twice as India reduced West Indies to 82 for five at lunch.

London: Sania Mirza reached the Wimbledon doubles semifinal for the first time in her career after she and Elena Vesnina came from behind to beat Nuria Llagostera Vives and Arantxa Parra Santonja on June 28.

The fourth seed Indo-Russian pair recorded a 3-6, 6-4, 7-5 win over the unseeded Spanish pair in the quarterfinal.

Reaching the quarterfinals with American partner Bathanie Mattek in 2008 was her best performance till Wednesday's match.

The Roland Garros finalists faced stiff resistance from the giant killing Spanish combo but they quickly got back into the rhythm to prevail in a hard-fought battle.

They will next face the winner of the other quarterfinal match between the Chinese pair of Shuai Peng and Jie Zheng and Kveta

Sania Mirza and Elena Vesnina.

Peschke and Katarina Srebotnik.

Mixed doubles win Sania with partner Rohan Bopanna reached the third round

of the mixed doubles event with a 7-6 (5), 6-2 win over Great Britain's Jamie Murray and Jarmila Gajdosova of Australia.

Business

India welcomes Lagarde as IMF chief Washington: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has expressed the hope that under the leadership of Christine Lagarde, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will deal effectively and fairly with the serious challenges which confront the global economy.

"A robust and sustained global economic recovery is a priority for all of us, as is the task of carrying forward the process of reform to ensure that emerging economies have a greater voice in the decision making processes of the IMF," he said in a letter of felicitation and good wishes to her.

Her selection by consensus "reflects the high regard in which she is being held by the different countries of the world at large," he told Lagarde, currently the French Finance Minister, who has been chosen the head of IMF with the support of US, India and some other emerging economies.

"There is expectation that, under her

The new IMF head Chritine Lagarde. leadership, the IMF will deal effectively and fairly with the serious challenges which confront the global economy," Mukherjee wrote.

Asked why India and other emerging nations had not chosen to put up a common candidate, he said India, Brazil, Russia and China had taken a decision to go by consensus.

Microsoft Office 365 in India New Delhi: Software giant Microsoft launched its Microsoft Office 365 in India, which will enable enterprises in the country to access solutions like email and other collaboration tools on a pay-per-use model.

"The launch is a part of Microsoft's comprehensive cloud services strategy.

Microsoft 365 provides all the enterprise solutions on a flexible usage and payment model, along with security and simplified IT management," Microsoft India Managing Director Sanket Akerkar said.

Over the last 45 days, more than 12,000 organiza-

Sanket Akerkar, Managing Director, Microsoft Corporation India, and Sanjay Manchanda, Director, Microsoft Business Division, announced the launch of Windows 365 at a press conference in New Delhi on June 29. tions in the country have signed up for Office 365 trails, he added. With the suite of solutions, companies can use email, collaboration, conferencing and

productivity capabilities for about USD 2-27 (about Rs 100-1,350) per user, depending on what solutions the organization opts for.

28

Humor

July 2-8, 2011

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

Humor with Melvin Durai

The strange people across the border he other day, while visiting a furniture store, I met a worker who looked Indian. But when I told him I was from India, he revealed he was from Pakistan. At that point, I had no choice: I grabbed a chair and chased him around the store, shouting, "Death to the Pakistani!"

Actually, it didn't go quite like that.

Security was tight, so I waited until his shift ended and followed him home, where I deflated his tires, raided his refrigerator, and tattooed the words "I love India!" all over his body. Who said tattoos serve no purpose?

OK, I admit it: I didn't go that far.

All I did was shake his hand and smile. We had a rather friendly chat. I didn't ask if any of his relatives were terrorists. He didn't ask if any of mine were infidels. We didn't even insult each other's mother-in-law.

He stated that the Kashmir dispute shouldn't create any ill will between us. "Yes," I said. "After all, India and Pakistan were once the same country.

We are like family, you and I. That reminds me: Does this store offer any family discounts?"

If it were up to us, the border between India and Pakistan would be eliminated. Of course, if that happened, the country would have to look for a new enemy, so people in the mil-

In major American cities, you will find Indians and Pakistanis doing business side by side, some operating stores with names like South Asia Boutique, Indo-Pak Groceries and Indo-Pak Sweets & No Disputes. You

T

Laughter is the Best Medicine

itary could keep their jobs. Gotta keep the economy going.

It's a funny thing about borders -how they divide people, how they create enmity and envy, how they give travelers the occasional thrill of being strip-searched.

Borders often seem so arbitrary, so illogical, like a British monarch delegated the task of drawing borders to his pet monkey. And yet we take them so seriously. We act like the people across the border are so different from us. Fifty-year-old man: "They're crazy, those people across the border. They speak a strange language and play strange games. Crazy, I tell you."

Wife: "Oh, be quiet. You really shouldn't speak ill of the Canadians.

They're just like us. Nice people."

I've often wondered what America would be like if every state were an

independent country. It would be virtually impossible to travel from Nevada to Utah.

Border officer: "You're from Las Vegas? What, may I ask, do you want in Utah? There's no gambling here, you know. No prostitution either. We don't even allow bingo."

Traveler: "I'm visiting my parents.

They live just across the border."

Officer: "Visiting your parents? I don't believe it. It's not Christmas yet.

Sorry, I can't let you through. If you want to enter Utah, you'll have to hide in a barrel like everyone else."

I like the Internet because it crosses borders so easily, brings people of different countries together. People in almost any country can read my column, people in almost any country can send me hate mail. I love hearing from Pakistanis as much as anyone else.

Tech Life Smartphone app to help locate friend in crowd WASHINGTON: Can a smartphone app enable meaningful, face-to-face conversation? Engineers are trying to figure it out with a software that helps people locate their friends in a crowd -- and make new friends sharing similar interests.

For instance, at a business meeting, the software could remind a user of a forgotten acquaintance's name, or help him make new professional contacts in the same area of research.

Dong Xuan, associate professor of computer science and engineering at Ohio State University, said: "Today, online social networking has advanced dramatically, but our ability to meet people face-to-face hasn't gotten any easier."

Called eShadow, the software uses nearby wireless networks and smartphones' wireless communication

may even spot them at the local park, playing a few innings of cricket -- laughing and shouting and ignoring the strange looks from passers-by.

There's no border between these people. I hope there never is.

technologies to alert users that a friend who also uses the software is in the area and gives directions to that friend's location, according to a Ohio statement.

"We want eShadow to close social gaps and connect people in meaningful ways while keeping the technology non-intrusive and protecting privacy," said Xuan, who led the project.

As to users' safety, Xuan feels that, at least for some situations, meeting someone in person is safer than meeting them online.

"Online, people can steal others' identity, or lie easily without detection. It's much harder to pull off a masquerade in person," he said.

The name eShadow comes from the idea that users input their interests into the software, and their smartphone broadcasts those inter-

ests to certain other users of the software - but only within 50 yards of the phone. So as users move, the broadcast follows them around like a shadow. In outdoor tests, they measured how fast the software could detect users who were 20, 30, and 50 yards apart.

They tested different numbers of users, from two to seven.

In all cases, the software was able to connect people within about half a minute - an average of 25 seconds for two users, and 35 seconds for seven. Xuan noted that eShadow's algorithms could be useful beyond socialising. Soldiers could use something akin to eShadow to locate each other on the battlefield.

These findings were presented at the IEEE International Conference on Distributed Computing Systems (ICDCS) in Minneapolis.

by Mahendra Shah Mahendra Shah is an architect by education, entrepreneur by profession, artist and humorist, cartoonist and writer by hobby. He has been recording the plight of the immigrant Indians for the past many years in his cartoons.

Hailing from Gujarat, he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Peer pressure responsible for juvenile cybercrimes WASHINGTON: Peer pressure and low self-control seem to be driving juvenile cybercrimes that include computer hacking and online bullying.

Thomas Holt, criminologist and assistant professor at the Michigan State University, said: "It's important to know what your kids are doing when they're online and who they are associating with both online and offline."

The study is one of the first to examine the cybercrime motivations of students in middle and high school. Holt and colleagues conducted a scientific survey of 435 students in a suburban Kentucky school district, the American Journal of Criminal Justice reports.

They found that the biggest factor in cybercrime was peer pressure -- basical-

ly kids whose friends engaged in cybercrime were more likely to engage in those behaviours, Holt said, according to a Michigan statement.

Cybercrime includes digital piracy (stealing music files), viewing online porn, online bullying and harassment and cyber-trespassing (which most often involves computer hacking).

Lack of self-control was also a major predictor. "These are the more risk-taking, impulsive kids; they're more likely to act on opportunity," Holt said. "So understanding your children's potential for behaviour is important as well."

Parental-control software is encouraged, Holt said, although it's important to note that many kids today can work around these programs.

Astrology TheSouthAsianTimes.info

July 2-8, 2011

By Dr Prem Kumar Sharma

Chandigarh, India: +91-172- 256 2832, 257 2874; Delhi, India: +91-11- 2644 9898, 2648 9899; psharma@premastrologer.com; www.premastrologer.com

Stars Foretell: July 2-8, 2011 Aries: Information provided by subordinates is likely to be unreliable and should be verified. Clouds of the past few days disappear as family members bring you pleasure and comfort. Business deals should be done very carefully. Relations with your partners might get strained due to work pressure. Listen to the advice of experts before making any investments. Matrimonial alliance for some, while others will have flourishing romance to keep them in high spirits.

Taurus: This week you need to move out and rub elbows with people at high places. Your carrier will take a positive turn if you take advantage of the opportunity that comes your way. You will also be able to impress others with your knowledge and enthusiasm. New partnerships done during this period will be favourable. Your financial position will improve, but for the next couple of days, you should depend more on your own intelligence and skills and less on fate to earn any major benefits.

Gemini: Another brilliant week for creative activities, but if you behave stubborn you could be nullifying whatever positive has to happen. You will make new friends and experience new things during this period.

Recognition and rewards are certainly yours if you present your ideas well. Do put some efforts into collecting information about your trade. Do not get emotionally involved with a person who is already committed to someone else.

Cancer: A week when you do things that you enjoy the most. You will be highly appreciated for making changes around your house. Important letters/telephones/emails should be attended to immediately. Call someone you haven’t heard from for a long time.

Travel plans if any might be postponed, due to unexpected work or might not bring desired results. You will receive gifts and favours from loved ones to brighten up your days. Financial gains are almost certain.

Leo: This week new ventures will start on an optimistic note. Auspicious days for make important purchases, but try not to overspend on luxury items. Your health needs care so do not skip meals and be regular towards your exercise. Although you will get substantial time with your beloved but your relationship will suffer because of minor disagreements. Say no to new alliances and partnerships.

Virgo: This week you will have to work extra to achieve your goals, even if it might mean working overtime and seeking favours. Rewards and other benefits for those who stay committed to their job. Unexpected expenses will put tension on your mind, but do not worry, as financial gains will soon be in your pocket. Spouse will be caring and provide you with love and affection. Good week to participate in outdoor activities and social events.

Libra: A better understanding with your spouse brings in happiness, peace and prosperity at home. Pressure from seniors at workplace will lead to some stress on your mind. Perfect week to work on creative hobbies and jobs. Household problems will be easier to tackle, but little more tact is required when deal-

29

ing with relatives. Social activities will be high on your agenda, and you will be in the mood to spend extra money on shopping and purchasing other items of comfort.

Scorpio: Your sharp observation will help you stay ahead of others, but quarrels seem certain if you get into philosophical debates with friends. Efforts of the past bring favourable results and rewards this week. Some of you will undertake a journey, which will be hectic, but highly rewarding. Tact, tolerance and patience will help maintain harmony at home.

Investment in antiques and jewelry will bring in long term financial gains and prosperity.

Sagittarius: Get involved in activities, which are exciting and will keep you relaxed. Rewards for deserving sportsmen, media personalities and stage artists are certain.

Keep your secrets to yourself as relatives/friends could meddle in your private affairs if you confide in them. Try not to be too extravagant if you go out shopping. Social activities will be satisfying. Your imagination will help you come up with new and brilliant ideas.

Capricorn: This week do things that will help you maintain a good physique.

Concentrate on creative hobbies in order to relax. Also, spend time to adapt too changes, which could benefit your career. Spend your spare time enjoying the company of children, even if you have to go out of your way to make that happen. Your optimistic views will impress people around you. Good week for developing new contacts. Relatives and visitors will occupy your evenings.

Aquarius: This week you might have to deal with unreliable individuals who will promise a lot but deliver less. Adapt to new techniques to increase your work efficiency.

Your style and unique ways of doing things will interest people who are watching you. Talk and listen to people about their project and you will gather valuable information. Put in more efforts in improving your style of working to get immediate rewards.

Pisces: All financial affairs should be kept free from risk as much as possible.

Spouse will remain cooperative despite your erratic behavior. Travelling for pleasure will be enjoyable, however it could cost you more than what you had anticipated. This is the right time to sign important documents. You will be in the spotlight, and success is well within your reach.

Don’t lend or borrow money to avoid the complications unnecessarily.

Before you consult... i) Accurate Data: Please make sure Date, Time and Place of birth is accurate. ii) Careful: Did you check background of the astrologer before disclosing your secrets. iii) Fee: Discuss the charges before, don’t feel shy. It’s his business. iv) Expectation: Expect the best, if the outcome is not as desired, never give up. v) Consult: Take second opinion before spending thousands on cure/remedies.

Annual Predictions: For those born in this week July 02: Ruled by number 2 and the Moon. You are highly trustworthy, emotional, simple, friendly and warmhearted person. You have a desire for learning and gathering knowledge and people look up to you for consultation and inspiration, but you need to check your tendency to behave introvert, hasty and whimsical at times. This year you need to do some serious thinking on your career options. Few brilliant opportunities would come your way but you need to act smart and quick to grab these once in a lifetime offer before others. Financial gains would accrue from investments and even speculation. A vacation to an exotic location cannot be ruled out later this year. Your health will remain good but health of your spouse or children will become a matter of concern. Servants, colleagues, subordinates will cause some worry and unnecessary tensions. The months of January, April, May and July will be eventful.

July 03: Influenced by number 3 and the planet Jupiter. You are ambitious, philosophical, dignified, independent and intelligent person. Your outgoing personality and willingness to adapt to changes keeps you ahead of others, but you need to check your tendency to behave reckless, spendthrift and selfish at times. Important alliances would welcome you this year. Your self-confidence and determination would be at its peak. Selective speculation would be rewarding, therefore do not squander away your hard-earned money. Finances would improve middle of the year bringing prosperity and happiness at domestic level. Your friends would be supportive to your concerns and always be by your side at the need of the hour. New romance for those unattached will certainly add a spice to your bland life. Health of a sibling might cause some concern and anxiety. The months of January, March, April and October seem to be significant.

July 04: Dominated by number 4 and the planet Uranus, you are active, jovial, reliable, methodical and systematic.

You are capable of handling many activities at one time, and you seldom complain, but you need to check your tendency to behave vindictive, jealous and stubborn at times. Great period to implement your new plans and ideas. Support from people around you would prove highly beneficial in completing pending jobs. Financial position stabilizes as investments start raking profits. Good time to travel and build up new contacts. Seeking blessing from a spiritual person would bring mental peace and comfort. Chances for overseas education for post graduates students would be bright. Matrimonial alliance for those seeking a life partner. Chronic patients need to take extra care for their health. The months of February, March, September and November will prove to be highly eventful.

July 05: Ruled by number 5 and the planet Mercury, you are strong, practical, active, business minded and a diplomatic person. You are a born leader and you easily inspire others to do an excellent job. You are hardworking and sincere, but your tendency to be moody, timid and jealous attracts enormous criticism at times. The coming year promises to be good for your physical and financial status. Recognition and rewards for your efforts would be plenty. There would be a good rise in your confidence and determination enabling you to handle difficult tasks with ease. Speculation in real estate would yield handsome returns. Distant travel would be undertaken for business purpose as well as pleasure. Children need to concentrate more on their career. Health would be fine in spite of overtime that

you might have to put for initial few months. The months of January, June, July and September will be highly significant and result oriented.

July 06: Influenced by number 6 and the planet Venus. You are independent, ambitious, charming and love peace and harmony. You possess a remarkable personality and you can easily make friends with your helpful nature, but you need to check your tendency to behave moody, spendthrift and careless at times. The year ahead promises to be a blend of both the good and the bad. Some exciting changes would take place in the organization that you work for. Your colleagues would be a support and a source of enjoyment, but seniors would be demanding and their erratic behaviour would add pressure to your mind. Financial gains are likely from more than one source. You would also gain if you invest in property and bonds. New friendships might seem promising but would ultimately live short of expectations. You are likely to be more inclined towards religious as well as spiritual activities.

The months of January, February, April and October will be highly eventful.

July 07: Governed by number 7 and the planet Neptune. You are brilliant, quick, confident, vigilant and shrewd.

You are blessed with remarkable imagination and can easily win over your rivals, but you need to check your tendency to behave stubborn, jealous and unreliable at times. An excellent period which would improve your name and bring you enormous fame. Investments will reach new heights and improved finances would make you spend more on luxuries and other comforts. Romantic entanglement would be pleasant and chances to enter into a matrimonial alliance would be strong. Religious feeling would arise making you seek blessing of a spiritual person or embark on a pilgrimage later in the year. Expect gifts and goodies both in cash and kind. The months of February, May, August and November will especially improve prosperity.

July 08: Influenced by number 8 and the planet Saturn, you are practical, disciplined, systematic, original, and authoritative person. You are of very charitable nature and you like to spend your money and time for noble cause, but you need to control your tendency to behave pessimist, adamant and nervous at times. This year new sources of income would generate for you.

You are likely to be unsatisfied with your present employer and would prefer to go for a change of job.

Chances for a new job would brighten around the month of May. Your new job, although very different from your present one, would give you job satisfaction and a better growth prospective. Family members would be supportive but at the same time your opinions and actions might be faced with strong resistance and criticism, leading to arguments and confrontations. Your spouse would be your major support and the two of you would enjoy many exciting social events together. Fresh investment needs to be made with extreme care. The months of March, May, August and September would be result oriented.

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30

Spiritual Awareness

July 2-8, 2010

TheSouthAsianTimes.info

No end to desires This article has been selected and reprinted from Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj’s book, Spiritual Pearls for Enlightened Living (Radiance Publishers), an inspirational collection of stories from the world’s great wisdom traditions.

By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj nce upon a time there was a carpenter who worked out of his home. Every day he took joy in building some furniture or tools to sell to others. He merrily sang and hummed as he worked, content with life.

One day, his rich neighbor grew fed up with the noise the carpenter made as he hammered the wood.

The neighbor had reached a point in which he could not take the noise anymore. The neighbor finally had a plan to quiet the carpenter. He took several hundred dollars from his money and left it in an envelope

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in the carpenter’s workshop. The neighbor thought that if he gave the carpenter money he would not have to work and he would stop his incessant hammering.

The carpenter entered his workshop and found the envelope lying there. Instead of using it to take a vacation or a break, the carpenter thought, “Someone left me several hundred dollars. What good fortune!

I will take some of the money and invest in new tools so I can build bigger and better furniture and make more money.” Thus, the money flamed the carpenter ’s desire to earn more money. He began working even harder, hoping to increase the newly found hundreds into thousands.

As he began to make more money, he was still not content. He decided he wanted to turn the thousands into tens of thousands and thus he worked still harder. The rich neighbor was annoyed that his plan had failed and instead of silencing the carpenter, it merely increased the noise because now the man worked longer hours.

When the carpenter had earned tens of thousands he wanted to make a hundred thousand. He put pressure upon himself to work day

and night and even on weekends.

Soon, he stopped his humming and singing. He no longer took joy in his work but felt strangled by the pressure he had put upon himself.

On many nights, he was so stressed out he could not even sleep. The inner contentment and peace he had when he was just a poor carpenter were gone in the pursuit of trying to make more and more money.

Consider our own lives. Do we find ourselves spending all of our time working to make money so we can retire? Do we work overtime to make more money? Do we work all weekend long to increase our profits?

Do we find that we cannot even take a day or even several hours off work without thinking about work?

If this is what is happening to us are we becoming like the carpenter? If we make all the money in the world but cannot enjoy personal peace and joy in our work, is it worth it?

If we find that we are devoting too much of our time to making money and not enough to our family, our hobbies, our spiritual pursuits and those things we love then we need to analyze whether we are making the right choices. It is good

to save for the future, but is it worth using up our entire life in trying to have more than what we need?

Who knows what the future will bring? When we become old, will we have the health to do what we waited our whole life to do? If we leave our spiritual pursuits until we have reached our senior years, who knows how much time we will have left or whether we will be able to devote time to spirituality at that stage. If we ignore our family until they are already grown and have children of their own, we miss an important part of their lives that can never be recovered.

Let us consider how we spend our time. If we have decided that certain goals are important then we should try to find time for them throughout our life and not put them all on the back burner in the pursuit of amassing more money than we need. We should weigh our time and make sure that we do not lose our peace and contentment over the stress of being engaged in a mad pursuit for money and possessions.

Being conscious of how we spend our time and our life is important. If we listen to our soul, we will find that inner peace and contentment are more valuable than all the rich-

If we find that we are devoting too much of our time to making money and not enough to our family, our hobbies, our spiritual pursuits and those things we love then we need to analyze whether we are making the right choices. It is good to save for the future, but is it worth using up our entire life in trying to have more than what we need? es in the world.

Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj, an international spiritual leader and Master of meditation, affirms the transcendent oneness at the heart of all religions, emphasizing prayer and meditation as building blocks for achieving peace.www.jyotimeditation.org

Whatever you give me tastes sweet

By Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj n our daily life we face many difficulties, hardships and disappointments. Things do not always go our way. If we listen to the discussions of others and review our own words and thoughts, we find that many of them deal with complaints about how life is treating us. Life seems to be bitter at times and in turn makes us bitter. Have we ever thought about life from a different perspective? Think about how fortunate we really are.

After all, we are human beings. How many species of life are there that walk the earth?

There are mammals, reptiles, and insects.

There are creatures of the air and creatures of the sea. Fortunately for us, we have been born as human beings.

How many of us have ever thanked God for the life we have been given? We complain to God when things go wrong but what about the hundreds of things that God has given us?

God has provided us enough food to keep us alive this long. We have had protection from the elements in the form of clothes and some sort of shelter. Most of us have families who love us. We have received some kind of education and have some kind of work.

If we take all that comes to us as a gift from

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God then we can accept the good and the tribulations equally under God’s will. In this respect, there is a story about King Mahmud of Ghazni. One day, while he was sitting with his most devoted servant, Ayaz, he shared half of his cucumber with him. When he had finished, the king then took a bite of his own half.

“Yuk!” he cried, as he made a disgusted face and spit out the cucumber.

“This is so bitter! How could you have eaten your piece if it tasted like bitter poison?”

Ayaz replied, “My dear king, I have enjoyed so many favors and blessings from you all these years.

Whatever you give me tastes sweet!”

Ayaz’s attitude demonstrates the frame of

Life is precious. Do we want to live our lives to their fullest? The pain and disappointments will not go away by complaining about them. We must pass through those times. Let us try to do so in a state of calm acceptance and conserve the energy that we normally use for complaining. Instead we can think of God in love and gratitude. We will find that we pass through the times of tribulations more easily. mind of a true lover of God. Such a lover is so much enamored of God and so grateful to God, that he or she takes everything, good or bitter, as a gift of the Beloved. Ayaz had received so many blessings from the king that he felt it was not his place to complain if one of these gifts were bitter.

After all, if the king gave him so much good, he must love him. If therefore, once in a blue moon, he had handed him something bit-

ter, Ayaz knew he had no evil intention. He accepted all the king gave him with love and gratitude.

If we could accept the rainy days with the same gratitude as we do the sunny days, we would find our lives would be more full of love, peace, and happiness. If we could appreciate the weeds as well as the roses, we would enrich our daily lives. If we could appreciate our enemies as well as our friends, we would not have to waste precious breaths in complaints and bitterness. If we could accept days when we are ill and under the weather as well as those in which we are well and healthy, we would reduce our stress and worry and maybe even heal faster.

Life is precious. Do we want to live our lives to their fullest? The pain and disappointments will not go away by complaining about them. We must pass through those times. Let us try to do so in a state of calm acceptance and conserve the energy that we normally use for complaining. Instead we can think of God in love and gratitude. We will find that we pass through the times of tribulations more easily.

Like Ayaz, let us take everything coming from God as tasting sweet. Then, we will sweeten our whole lives and the lives of those around us.

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