Austin South Asian. June. 2016 by Austin South Asian

Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 9 No. 06

Non Profit Of The Month 2 Years Of MODI Sarkar

Pratham Austin -How You Can Make A Difference!

By Vijay Ganju Established in 2010, Pratham Austin is on the move. In its first year, the organization raised $25,000 to help educate disadvantaged children in India.

In 2015, the organization raised almost $300,000. And now the goal is to reach $500,000, and Pratham

Austin needs you to help! (Continued On Page 14)

On May 26, two years back, President Pranab Mukherjee administered the oath of office to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Cabinet. The lavish ceremony was attended by Premiers of SAARC nations, several Chief Ministers, Opposition leaders, besides a host of celebrities, corporate honchos and religious heads.

Kaavya Veliveti.............02 Malik’s Page........04,08,16 Month Of Heritage Of Immigrants And Stories....05 Free Acupressure.........06 I Love Entertaining.......07 Film Review.................09 Mosquito Control..........09 Selfies And Self Produced

For the first time in 30 years, the BJP came to power with an absolute majority and the swearing-in ceremony gave a hint that Team Modi was ready with a gamechanging plan for the country. Two years into governance, we look back at the Centre’s performance. (Continued on page 16)

Restaurant Review: Graduates Father’s Day Gift Ideas BIRYANI-N-GRILL Page - 04 Historically wisecracked as one of Looking Ahead HIB VISA TO COST $4000 MORE WASHINGTON: Flagship Indian IT companies would have to pay at least an additional $4,000 for every H-1B visa application under the new regulations that came into effect last December, according to details published today by a federal US agency. (Continued on page 21)

June - Month Of Heritage Of Immigrants And Their Stories

the most difficult people to buy for,

By Sumaiya Malik

By Ashwin Ghatalia On April 22nd IACT (Indian American Coalition of Texas)

hosted Dr. Mohamed Keshavjee an immigrant to Canada from South Africa whose family migrated (Continued On Page 05)

Dad still generates $12.7 billion in Father’s Day sales, according to the National Retail Federation’s “Father’s Day Spending Survey” conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics. (Continued On Page 07)

inside

June 2016

Last year, the Austin South Asian talked about the elaborate Graduation Parties and the excitement of graduating parents in the month of May. This year the paper has shifted its focus on graduating high schoolers. (Continued On Page 07)

July 2016

Art & Culture Special

512-828-6709 Videos Are Changing....11 Simple Tips To Reduce..11 What You Need To.......12 Pratham Austin............14 Austin Industrial Market17 Save Water And Lawn..18 Two Summer Picnic Ideas For Foodies..................18 N For Neyyappam........19 Predictions...................19 Delicious Wine And......20 College Bound Students20 Community Calendar....21 Children’s Page........22,23 US Lawmakers Push.....24 Entertainment.........25,26

Indian American Student Kaavya Valiveti Named Top Graduating Senior Of U.C. Berkeley Spending much of her collegiate career at a chalkboard solving linear algebra problems has led to U.C. Berkeley student Kaavya Valiveti being named the top graduating senior at the prestigious Bay Area-based university. The university made the announcement of Valiveti’s accomplishment May 3 in a press release. Additionally, the 21-year-old Indian American won the campus’ highly coveted University Medal, an honor that recognizes outstanding scholarship, public service and strength of character. The University Medal comes with a $2,500 award as well as the opportunity to address thousands of her fellow students during a May 14 commencement ceremony at the campus’ Memorial Stadium. Despite all that, she remains humble. “I’m still that nerdy, geeky kid that I was in school living inside my own imagination, but I’m coming out my shell,” she said in a university news release. At U.C. Berkeley, she excelled in math — honored for a near-perfect GPA of 3.99 — as well as music, playing the harmonium and cello, and tutoring disadvantaged Latino students, the release said. Valiveti will head to the East Coast and attend MIT for her doctorate degree in math on National Science Foundation graduate research and Norman Levinson fellowships. Though admittedly shy and somewhat fearful of the commencement speech, Valiveti, who won’t even allow her friends to post videos of her musical performances on social media, hopes to convey how her passion helped her overcome struggles and assert herself as a woman in the STEM industry. (Continued On Page 27)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Biryani-N-Grill – A World Of Flavor In South Austin

By Sumaiya Malik

Housed two stores to the left of Man Pasand in a strip mall on Ben White near Brodie Lane, is a new Hyderabadi restaurant called Biryani-- Grill. The restaurant opened its doors

The restaurant serves not just typical Hyderabadi cuisine such as Mirchi ka Salan (Green Chilies in thick red curry) and Mutton Biryani, but also offers dosas, sambar and meat patties in puff pastry. Chinese dishes are other options on the menu. The owners have tried to satisfy every South Asian palate. Two young men in yellow restaurant polos greeted us from behind the counter on the far end of the square restaurant room where guests had to order. Mahesh, the manager was polite and efficiently guided us through the long menu.

on March 14 and in two months, the news of the delicious cuisine in its menu has travelled through the grapevine to the whole of Austin and Round Rock.

He requested us to take the number to our table where the food would be brought. We ordered at the cashier, paid and sat at one of the numerous wooden tables with four wooden chairs. I could not help but notice the clean air and

spotless furniture on freshly waxed floor and high ceiling. Bright light from the windows and lit up chandelier created a warm and lively atmosphere as well. The restaurant’s owners Venkat, Swadeep, and Chandu are three experienced young men who owned Dawat Restaurant previously. Their experience shows in the cleanliness and efficiency of Biryani N Grill. As I walked to my table, I looked around at other patrons. An Oriental couple sat at the left end by the bakery counter. Guests can order desserts, cookies and cakes at this counter separately or through the menu where they are listed.

Another table had women in Shalwar and Kameez with their elderly mother, chatting away in Urdu while eating. Although it was 2 p.m. the restaurant was busy. Before long our food was before us. The Mirchi ka salan came in a sparkling white porcelain bowl shaped like a handi. It had the right zest and spice and was enough for two as main dish, and for three as sides. This is a spicy dish. For-

tunately, they ask your spice level when you order. We also ordered the goat biryani. That came with ‘raita’ and ‘red curry’, which had to be poured over the rice. The helping was large with a generous meat helping. We also ordered Mango Lassi, which was a good combination with the biryani. The Nans and Onion Kulcha were hot, crisp and fluffy. The highlight of menu is an array of desserts and cakes. While there are cream cakes of all fruity flavors cut in slices and displayed for selection, there are also varieties of teacakes with fruit at a reasonable price and a selection of cookies. The most popular is the salty and sweet Osmania cookie, which is baked to a golden orange on top. That is surely the most recommended item on the list. I do plan to go back for that. Serving South Indian, Hyderabadi and Chinese with a ‘Desi’ touch, the restaurant is already a much talked about hangout in South Austin. There is good news for all those who drive all the way from Round Rock to South Austin to eat at the restaurant. Soon another location of Biryani-N-Grill will open up next to the Man Pasand in North Austin.

Home Safety Month: New Ways To Protect Your Family

While you may think of smart home technology as a convenience -- something to save you a few steps of walking between the

self and everyone in it. June, which is Home Safety Month, is a great opportunity to learn how

most people think about home security is almost certainly burglary. But intruders aren’t the only thing you have to worry about entering your home. Water damage is the second most common cause of property loss and accounts for a quarter or more of homeowner’s insurance claims. A good early detection device, such as a Z-Wave flood sensor, could be the difference between a damp inconvenience and a soaking wet catastrophe in your home, especially when combined with a smart shutoff valve.

couch and the nearest light switch, smart home offerings also include important preventative measures that can help you protect not only your valuables, but your home it-

to use new technology in order to help protect your family: • Beyond the Burglar: The first thing that comes to mind when

• Avoid dangers: Some sensors, like GoControl’s Z-Wave Door/ Window Sensors, for example, are a great way to keep you alerted to potential dangers -- especially on days when the kids get home earlier than you do. A few placed judiciously around

the house -- on liquor or medicine cabinets, for example, or even the knife drawer, are a great way of keeping your mind at ease. And those same sensors placed on entry points could alert you in the event of an invasion. • Deter intruders: When it comes down to it, though, the best way to deal with home invasion is to deter intruders altogether. When you’re out of town for a vacation or business trip, it’s important to make sure your home still looks lived in, and rigid preprogrammed lighting timers aren’t fooling anyone. Newer smart light bulb systems, like BeON Home, go one step further by recording and playing back your daily lighting routines, and even include a sophisticated listening system that can respond to a doorbell, by turning inside lights on organically, one at a time, exact-

ly the way you would if you were home. Smart home technology is becoming more versatile than ever. To learn more about how it can be used for keeping people, pets and property safe, visit Z-Wave.com and BeONHome.com for DIY videos, how-tos and live customer assistance. While there’s no replacement for a caring neighbor’s watchful eye, these days there are a great number of ways of taking home security into your own hands -- no matter where you are. Smart hubs, combined with sensors in and around the home, can take the worry out of being away from home by alerting you when something goes wrong. With a connected home, you can better keep tabs on your house and keep the things and people in it safe, even when you’re not home.

Austin South Asian | June 2016

June - Month Of Heritage Of Immigrants And Their Stories

(Continued From Page 01)

ing, aim to help people become better.

The occasion was his book launch titled “Into That heaven of Freedom”.

He could not stay in Kenya, he could not go back to Apartheid laden country which had been thrown out of british commonwealth, as a south so he could not go to Britain, India upheld Britain’s responsibility to live up to to its commitment to “British Protected People”.

He talks about living under Apartheid, Indian community’s struggle and its ultimate unity with native sons of South Africa.

He virtually had no home. With the help of Agha Khan Foundation he migrated to Canada. Was his plight unique?

Nobel winning book of poetry Geetanjali:

He has an interesting story. A south African of Indian descent he went to London to study law.

Not at all! Based on this pervading situation of early 50s that he felt we need to tell “our stories”, the struggles, the circumstances that lead to them and how we assimilated in our new homes and among new people and of course that of our acceptance and opportunities in the new land.

from India’s Kathiawar (Saurashtra) to South Africa in 19th century.

He practiced in Kenya. African nations were becoming independent the changes brought challenges to Indian community. Uganda uprooted Indians, In Kenya Jomo Kenyatta asked Indians either to become Kenyan citizens or leave the country. For Dr Keshavjee the issue was complex, Kenya had no diplomatic relations with South Africa.

So he had two messages “tell your stories to you coming generations, if you don’t, these great endeavors will be lost. His second message: reach out to others and connect, help in their struggles, be empathetic, be welcoming and be forgiv-

For there in lies the future of our world. Hence the appropriate title of his book “Into That Heaven of Freedom” comes from Gurudeo Tagore’s

Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high Where knowledge is free Where the world has not broken into fragments By narrow domestic walls Where the words come out from depth of truth Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection Where clear stream of reason has not lost its way Into dreary desert sand of dead habit Where the mind is led forward by thee Into ever-widening thought and action Into that heaven of freedom, my father, let my country awake

As we celebrate “Immigrant Heritage Month please visit www.saada.org While Dr. Keshavjee tells the stories of Indian community’s struggle in Africa, Mr. Samip Mallick tells the stories of South Asian Immigrants in the USA going as far back as 19th century. SAADA stands for South Asian American Digital Archives IACT celebrates the Month of June in partnership with FWD.us a national organization dedicated to immigration reform. It also behooves us that current rhetoric in some segment of nation must be viewed with trepidation. Needless to say to generations of South Asians that we are beneficiaries of immigration reform bill made into law some 50 years ago. Ashwin Ghatalia IACT advisory Board Member

Home Design Tips For Baby Boomers There are about 76.4 million Baby Boomers in the US, according to the Population Reference Bureau. As this population ages, it

will become important that features on their houses promote safety, are easy-to-maintain, and last a long time. Whether building from the ground up or remodeling a current home, take “aging-in-place” into consideration every step of the way. Here are some great projects to consider with strong payback. A Better Basement When building a new home, choose your

foundation carefully. Not only is an uninsulated basement a major source of heat loss, but it’s throwing away potential space that can enhance your life. A “liveable basement” can be designated as a “grandkid zone,” an at-home office or crafting workshop. You can use a pre-cast insulated concrete foundation system, such those from Superior Walls, to create an energy-efficient damp-proof basement. This foundation will help reduce utility bills for long-term savings. Reinforced concrete walls create a permanent barrier against water, and pre-engineered access for wiring or plumbing features are a key element to whatever vision you have for this subterranean space. First Floor Privacy Many seniors opt to spend more of their time at home on the easy-to-navigate ground floor.

But don’t compromise privacy in pursuit of accessibility. Privacy windows can alleviate concerns you have about neighbors seeing you go about your business. For example, those from Hy-Lite are offered in numerous styles and designs, including opaque decorative glass, acrylic block and true glass block windows. Silkscreen glass designs can complement the overall style of the home. From your master suite to your bathroom to the main rooms of your home, avoid prying eyes with this crucial component of stylish first floor living. Safe, Comfortable Bathrooms As mobility and coordination decline, slips and falls can make bathrooms a hazardous place. Think of the years ahead by seeking out bathroom features that are ADA compliant. “Taller toilets that are easier to rise from, pedestal sinks that allow wheelchairs and walkers access, and walk-in tubs that promote easy entries and exits, are all bathroom features people may need as they age,” says Jean Dimeo, a Certified Aging in Place Specialist.

Brands like Mansfield Plumbing are accommodating the boomer population by offering selections of SmartHeight toilets, pedestal, under counter and wall mounted sinks. A popular product, Restore walk-in tubs, come with whirlpool and inline heater options to sooth aching muscles and joints. With many high-design fixtures and fittings available, a safe bathroom does not need to be just a utilitarian one. Durable Roof When choosing a roof for over your home, seek out long-term durability without compromising beauty. Slate and shake polymer roof products from brands like DaVinci Roofscapes are low-maintenance, offer lifetime limited warranties, and come in a variety of color options that have the authentic look of natural materials. Impact- and fire- resistant, these hardworking roofs offer boomers both peace-of-mind and long-term value. By upgrading key home features during construction and remodeling efforts, aging-in-place is not only possible, it can be preferable. (Statepoint)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

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Free Acupressure Workshops By Prema Mysore Acupressure found its roots in India as early as 5000 years ago. Acupressure is a great boon given to mankind by the creator/nature. The chart of the soles and hands given in the book ‘HEALTH IN YOUR HANDS’ by Dr. Devendra Vora, is based on the writings of “SUSHRUT”. Acupressure is only an offspring of nature’s own science installed in our body and given as a great boon to mankind. This therapy was taken by the Buddhist Monks to China and South East Asian Countries. Dr. William Fitzgerald and others, in U.S.A, have carried out research on the same and have brought this science to light in the 20th century. Acupressure is a marvelous system, simple to understand and easy to practice. It is highly effective and safe. Acupressure is a form of touch therapy that utilizes the life energy which flows through “meridians” in the body. In Acupressure treatment, physical pressure is applied to pressure points with the aim of clearing blockages of energy flow in these meridians. Acupressure, unlike acupuncture, is a non-invasive form of therapy that can be practiced after basic training, by anyone on himself or herself, and has practically no side-effects. Human body is capable of healing any disease and acupressure aids this process of healing by regulating, balancing and harmonizing the energy flow. It also helps in prevention and maintenance of the organs and endocrine glands in proper working order to prevent the possibility of disease. Human body consists of several energy channels or Meridians or Nadis, where the energy is flowing all over the body. When there is an energy block or disruption in the flow of energy, body

gives an alarm in the form of pain. By releasing these energy blocks, and getting to the root cause of this block, pain is relieved. Energy blocks results in accumulation of toxins in the body.

These workshops are based on the teachings of Dr. Devendra Vora as detailed in his book – Health in Your Hands, Volumes 1 and 2, which covers prevention, assessment and maintenance of overall health.

At the Acupressure workshop, attendees Benefits of Acupressure and Natural Therapy will discover the treasure of good health in their hands and feet. • Uses one’s thumb to assess the overall wellness • Means of prevention, identifying any discomParticipants will be introduced to thirty- fort in the body and heal eight acupressure points of the body, • Safe with NO side effects what they mean, what they are associ- • No cost; no test and hence called it as “Zero ated with, what to look for in determin- Cost Therapy/Low Cost Therapy” ing a deficient condition and how to heal • Can be used even on infants it…etc. Also, the workshop conductor • It is a ‘Do it yourself’ therapy will discuss how acupressure works, pressure points, certain common diseas- Free Workshops are available at: es – cold, cough, diabetes, cholesterol, pain and how to manage pain – sciatica, Thursday June 16th: 7pm-9pm; Friday June 17th: knee pain etc. 7pm-9pm; Saturday June 18th: 9am-12pm & 2pm-5pm.

Location is: Shree Swaminarayan Mandir 804 Ramble Creek Pflugerville, TX 78660. To reserve the seat, Please call Harish Kotecha 512.994.4638 or email: kotecha@yahoo.com. One-On-One discussion will be available after the talk.

Austin South Asian

Editor: Bala Kumar Marketing: Jayachitra Vijay -512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com Production: Jyothi Mariswaran Admin: Sharada Dayanidhi Publisher: Vidya Kumar Circulation: Vasooda Kumar ©All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof be published without the wirtten consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertisement and article is 20th of every month.

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Austin South Asian | June 2016

“I LOVE ENTERTAINING, ENGAGING AND MAKING PEOPLE LAUGH”

By Seema Govil Farhan Akhtar, at the Press Confer-

ence in Dallas, ALOFT Hotel From the very first minute Farhan eased into the setting - cracking jokes, making witty observations and bringing fun and laughter into the room, otherwise full of nervous

excitement on meeting with such a versatile, talented Bollywood superstar, and a musician par expectations.

When asked what the tour has in store for audiences, the duo surprised us, literally, by wanting to let things unroll on their own.

and introducing FOLKTRONICA as a genre, he has been a refreshing musical influence in Bollywood in recent times.

“Everything I do, every role I take up, be it acting, directing, singing etc., is just another way to engage with the auddience,” said Farhan Akhtar as he met the media to kick off his ZINDA tour with Papon, at a press conference in Dallas, Texas, on Thursday, May 19, 2016.

“We would love for people to discover what it is about, rather than giving away the awesomeness in words. You have to be there to see it and to know it and live it,” said Farhan.

Meanwhile, Farhan has been loved and appreciated since his directorial debut Dil Chahta Hai. His style of movie making changed the way Bollywood portrays relationships, friendships and family.

The chemistry between the performing duo was visibly comfortable, respectful and enjoyable. Papon has performed with Karsh Kale and Midivial Punditz, amongst others, and also had his own episode on Coke Studio recently.

He has been a trend setter since the beginning, and continues to open our eyes to old traditions in new ways.

With numbers such as Kyu (Barfi), Jiyein Kyun (Dum Maaro Dum),

Great Father’s Day Gift Ideas (Continued From Page 01) “Every year, we showcase a variety of gifts for Dad because we know every Dad is different and difficult to buy for,” says Nelson Tejeda, senior VP and chief merchandising officer at Things Remembered, a leading retailer of personalized gifts. “After 50 years in the personalization and gifting business, there are a few things we know score well with most Dads.” Dad clichés that hit home Most Dads love a good burger, whether going out for a smoky BBQ bacon burger at the local joint or grilling the perfect piece of grass-fed beef at home. Dads who are convinced they make the world’s best burger would appreciate a personalized grill set or apron that declares him the master. Have a Dad who takes grilling even more seriously? A monogrammed chef’s coat is ideal. Beer pairs incredibly well with burgers and a monthly subscrip-

tion to a club that specializes in microbrews is certainly in good taste with any beer lover. A personalized beer cap collector can help Dad visually document his greatest sipping memories and add some flair to his home bar while engraved pint glasses or tankards can help him better taste the subtle nuances of his craft brew while watching the game. Speaking of games, season tickets to cheer his favorite team on to victory makes for a fantastic gift. If you have a limited budget, select one or two games against the biggest rivals. Dad’s favorite team showcased on a pair of cuff links is a fun way to show team spirit while still looking professional at the office. Or, get him ready for tailgating on a cold morning with an NFL throw. If golf’s his game, make sure his buddies never again snag his marker and declare it their own by personalizing a multi-function golf accessory (which also features a divot tool he surely won’t need). Or consider monogramming a per-

sonal item Dad uses every day. A sentimental saying tucked in a wallet or on the back of a watch will be appreciated. Or customize a shaving set to give Dad a boost of confidence every morning when he gets ready for the day. One interest of Dad’s you can’t go wrong on is you. Consider getting sentimental with a personalized frame that features pictures of you and Dad together, customized with a special message. Still considering a tie for Father’s Day? “If you insist on getting Dad a tie,” says Tejeda, “get him a monogrammed tie bar to go with it. You can engrave a special message on the back.” More ideas for personalized Father’s Day gifts can be found at thingsremembered.com. With a bit of effort, you can give your dad a Father’s Day gift that will be both useful and meaningful. (Statepoint)

He closed the conference with a thought provoking poem, as an elaboration on his non-profit MARD (Men Against Rape and Discrimination), and shared his

daily inspiration and favorite life lessons. The ‘Zinda Tour’ will premiere on May 20 from Dallas, Texas, hosted in collaboration by American Bollywood TV, MeraBoxOffice, Molabs Media and Hiba Entertainment and national promoter Karl Kalra of LIVE2U. The tour will also visit Houston, San Jose, New Jersey, Chicago, and will conclude on May 29 in Washington, D.C. This will mark Farhan’s first ever USA Tour with his band. BUY TICKETS through the Facebook page Farhan Akhtar LIVE, and on Sulekha.

Two High School Graduates And Two UT Graduates Looking Ahead (Continued From Page 01)

time in high school away.”

We asked two students what their thoughts are as they graduate and move to college. We also asked two students from UT Austin who graduated this May what their thougths are about the future. Following are their replies:

So true, Faaris. It’s impressive to see a young student moving off to another city to study be so mature about his own experience. Another student, Tasneem Ahsanullah, graduated this year from Westlake High. We asked her if there was a special memory we want to share while she had at school. She said, “Performing at the band competition for Band of America’s at the Alamo Dome in San Antonio [was special].”

Faaris Sattar graduated this May from Westwood High and moving to UT Dallas to study Computer Science. Born in Austin, Faaris is lived here all his life. He said, “I feel great about graduating. Of course I’m nervous about leaving the comfort of my own home and moving to a new city, but overall the thought of graduating makes me feel accomplished and proud of how hard I’ve worked to get here. “ We asked him if there was a lesson he would like to share with the students who are still in school. He said, “A lesson that I would share to those still in school would be to just appreciate your time in school and with your friends while it lasts, because it goes by faster than you think and it’s easy to just wish your

She added that while at school “she become more interested in the connections between the arts and sciences.” Tasneem is all set to be at UT Austin this fall and is right now trying to work out which dorm is better. She added, “In general I’ve begun to appreciate the arts and creative subjects more. Also, I’ve become more informed/passionate about women’s education/rights. This new passion has also made me more appreciative of my own education too.” (Continued On Page 08)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

ICMCA Kicks Off Its Silver Jubilee With Hariharan & Zakir Hussain

By Sumaiya Malik

Asian crowd.

tin.

On May 18, Indian Classical Music Circle of Austin (ICMCA) hosted their season kickoff with a ghazal evening with Grammy Award winner Zakir Hussain on tabla and much acclaimed Ghazal singer Hariharan at the Riverbend Center on 360.

“Lala-lala-la,” Hariharan made the audience sing.

The duo performed together for the first time in Austin with their ensemble.

IMCGA has conducted 200 concerts in Austin over 25 years and affected the cultural landscape of Austin.

Prashant Manikal, the president of ICMCA and Niraja Srinivasan, the treasurer and the Vice President talked about how the group started in 1991 as a group of friends wanting to promote music they loved.

The maestros mesmerized the audience with melodies and poetry of past and present reflecting the modern with the classical. They also occasionally translated the heavy Urdu for the non-South

People could spot their friends close and far in the audience in colorful attire. The men and women laughed at the songs of live and tapped their feet.

Over the years it became a non-profit with membership.

They encourage music lovers to attend their concerts and interact with artists where possible.

All ages were seen at the event with Biryani Pots catering.

They have made partnerships with sister music organizations in Aus-

system and no echo, the tap of every finger of the table was heard. In the opening remarks, Steve Adler, the mayor of Austin spoke about the importance of having diversity in the city of music. He spoke about his association with India and the contributions of ICMCA in promoting the Arts. Important to note is that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the group. Their membership has increased to four hundred ad includes people from San Antonio and Houston as well.

With excellent sound

Pakistani Senator Javed Jabbar’s Talk On The Unique Destiny Of Pakistan At UT By Sumaiya Malik On Friday, June 3 at 6 p.m., retired Senator Javed Jabbar from Pakistan will be the guest speaker at UT. He will talk about the unique

ternational and national affairs, voluntary development work, mass media, filmmaking, the environment, social and cultural issues. The most recent anthology of his

In 2015 he was one of eight former Senators invited by the Senate of Pakistan to become a Member of the newly established think-tank called the Senate Forum for Policy Research for a three-year term (2015-17).

leum and Natural Resources and National Affairs.

He is a Member of the longestrunning (24 years) non-mediareported Pakistan-India Track-II Dialogue known as the “Neemrana Initiative”.

He is Visiting Professor in the Social Sciences Faculty at IBA Karachi and Honorary Chairman of the Ardeshir Cowasjee Centre for

He has conducted extensive work for over 3 decades to promote both civil society and official initiatives between Pakistan and India for conflict resolution and peace building.

origin and destiny of Pakistan and then answer questions. The talk is hosted by the South Asia Institute and is free and open to the Austin community. Senator (r) Javed Jabbar has diverse interests in writing, in in-

writings is a book titled Pathways (2016), described by Pakistan’s leading English newspaper as a “must-read”. Further details of his 15 books and other work are on his website: www.javedjabbar.com.

He lectures at civil and military universities and think tanks in India, Pakistan and overseas countries on Pakistan-India relations and on a range of other subjects. He has served as Minister in three Federal Cabinets of Pakistan and as a Senator for 6 years. Ministerial portfolios have included Information and Broadcasting, Science and Technology, Petro-

He drafted the first-ever laws in Pakistan for independent TV and radio channels and for Freedom of Information.

Writing at IBA, Karachi. He is a graduate in International Relations from the University of Karachi. For more information, please visit the South Asia Institute page at UT. h t t p s : / / w w w. u t e x a s . e d u / cola/southasia/events/event. php?id=40893

Two High School Graduates And Two UT Graduates Looking Ahead (Continued From Page 07) While these two are preparing for college, Sabeen Latif and Amil Malik graduated from UT Austin this year from the McCombs School of Business. One will be working in Seattle, Oregon and the other in NYC. Sabeen was off to attend a graduation party in Houston. Amil Malik recapped her four years at UT. She said she enjoyed the learning process and every step of the way which lead to her graduation. It became a goal in itself. She maximized on the number of courses she could take per semester to learn about subjects she thought she would not have the opportunity to touch in her later life. She, like her friends and high school graduates, is confident that its important to move on. Both students have been available for the high school graduates about advice for college. The Austin South Asian congratulates all the students who graduated in May 2016 and their families for this great achievement!

Austin South Asian | June 2016

FILM REVIEW: The Man Who Knew Infinity

The Life of the Indian Mathematical Genius Srinavasa Ramanujan By Vijay Ganju

The film The Man Who Knew Infinity about the Indian mathematical prodigy Srinivasa Ramanujan Iyengar has been showing in Austin theaters (starring Dev Patel of Slumdog Millionaire fame as Ramanujan and Jeremy Irons as Professor G.H.Hardy, a Cambridge University professor who sponsored and helped guide Ramanujan).

he kept notebooks in which he developed his own conjectures and research.

for mathematical research in the world, where they collaborated for the next five years.

When apprised of this work, Indian mathematicians recognized the ex-

Their collaboration was a clash of cultures, personalities, and intellectual styles. A major bone of contention was that Hardy pushed the need for proof and rigor while Ramanujan operat ed on the basis of his intuition.

As a film, it is a charming, unpretentious biopic in the British tradition that may resonate variably with the general population: despite attempts to dramatize different events, the film moves slowly, and the breakthroughs in number theory are too abstract for most viewers. But, for a person of South Asian origin, the film is a vehicle to be introduced to Ramanujan and his story of making colossal contributions to mathematics and the journey and sacrifices he had to make to do so. The name Ramanujan and his story is one that every South Asian should know. Ramanujan was born in 1887 in a Tamil Brahmin family of humble origins, and even though he did like school and often avoided attending, by age 11 he was already showing precocious mathematical abilities.

traordinary abilities reflected in the notebooks. They relayed this work to mathematicians at the University of London whose response was that while Ramanujan had some natural mathematical aptitude, he did not have the educational background and foundation needed to be considered seriously.

When he was lent a book by S.L. Loney on advanced trigonometry, he not only mastered it but also had developed sophisticated theorems of his own.

When Ramanujan finally wrote to G.H. Hardy, a professor of mathematics at Cambridge, Hardy’s first response, recognizing some formulae, was that Ramanujan was a fraud .

When he was 16, he obtained a library copy of Carr’s Elementary Results in Pure and Applied Mathematics, and this is recognized as the turning point that triggered his genius.

Others he found “scarcely possible to believe.” As a result, however, Hardy arranged for Ramanujan to join him at Cambridge University, and it is this relationship that is the focus of the film.

Even though his mathematical prowess was recognized, he performed poorly in other subjects, and ultimately had to leave college without a degree. At the same time,

Ramanujan has to leave his young bride and mother, and break the Brahmanical taboo about traveling across oceans, to join Hardy at Cambridge, the premier center

W h i l e Ramanujan would insist on the correctness of his results, Hardy wanted the results to be proved. The challenge for Hardy was to move Ramanujan in the direction of mathematical orthodoxy without undermining his intuitive approach.

At one point, he tried to kill himself, throwing himself in front of a train, but, fortunately, the engine driver was able to stop in time. He eventually returned to India and died shortly thereafter, in 1920, at the age of 32.

Directed by Matthew Brown, who also wrote the screenplay, the film is based on a 1991 book with the same name -- The Man Who Knew Infinity – by Rob Kanigel. (The book is very readable and incredibly well researched, including explanations of the mathematical breakthroughs for the layman.) This film is truly a labor of love: the film was eight years in development, and there was serious involvement by well known mathematicians to ensure that the mathematics was represented fairly. (The film could have been made more easily if certain liberties were taken with the script such as hav-

ing Ramanujan have an affair with a white nurse.) As an epilogue, most of Ramanujan’s theorems have been proved, although some were proved relatively recently, more than 50 years after they were proposed. (Some results were proved using theorems proved in 2006, confirming Ramanujan’s incredible intuition.) Applications of some of his work have been made in statistical research, string theory, and even cancer research. During his life, Ramanujan’s work smashed an existing paradigm: there was a sense that mathematical knowledge could only emerge through a Western mindset and tradition. Ramanujan, who was untutored and not part of this orthodoxy, was revolutionary in this regard, proving that there are many pathways to insight and knowledge.

The Key to Better Mosquito Control? Take Control of Your Own Backyard Warmer weather is a cue from Mother Nature to start thinking about mosquitoes. Their bites can potentially leave more than an annoying itch; and this year many Americans are taking notice.

When asked by Hardy how he arrives at his results, Ramanujan replies, “The goddess told me. An equation has no meaning unless it represents the thought of God.” The film deals with this dynamic within the context of the larger, more intractable, mathematical establishment that was prejudiced against the notion that an Indian could be making such notable and fundamental contributions. Ultimately, Ramanujan’s story ends sadly. While in England, he was diagnosed with tuberculosis and severe vitamin deficiency. (He was in England during the years of World War 1, and there were shortages that affected his vegetarian diet, and he was unused to the British cold.)

In fact, nearly seven out of ten (68 percent) want to go a step beyond “just spraying their body,” including treating their deck areas or back yards, in order to combat mosquitoes, according to a recent survey by Westham Co., a global mosquito control product manufacturer. (Continued On Page 10)

The Key To Better Mosquito Control? Take Control Of Your Own Backyard (Continued From Page 09)

Try Something New

To fully protect your family from mosquito bites this season, combine backyard smarts with scientifically-based mosquito control options. This one-two punch can eliminate breeding grounds and halt mosquitoes’ ability to bite, breed and annoy.

More than half of Americans (55 percent) say current solutions, such as tiki torches, yard sprays and foggers don’t work.

Start Early Before mosquitoes settle in, make your backyard inhospitable to them. Clear standing water. Some mosquitoes need as little as an inch of water to breed and survive. Look for hidden water traps such as tires, candles and dog bowls left in the yard. “Get ahead of pesky mosquitoes this summer,” says Tom Kraeutler, home improvement expert and host of syndicated radio show “The Money Pit.”

Most DIY options either repel mosquitoes or kill on contact. Mosquitoes can adapt to commonly used chemicals and some of these can destroy “good” yard bugs. After a decade of research, science has broken the mold with a baitand-kill approach. Mosquitoes need sugar from plants to fly, mate and bite. Attractive Targeted Sugar Bait (ATSB) is the first edible control to lure mosquitoes with a sugary bait and then kill them with a gut toxin they cannot detect – garlic. Multiple studies support that once

exposed to ATSB, backyard mosquito populations reduce by 90 percent within a few weeks.

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Ways Students Can Use Summer Vacation To Prepare For the Future Is your family thinking about the skills and experience your child needs for college and future suc-

onstrating high standards of honesty, integrity and showing respect toward others. Building strong

cess? The majority of college admission officers recommend that students start preparing before or by ninth grade. Yet, more than half of middle level students haven’t started prepping for college, according to statistics from the National Honor Society (NHS) and National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). Experts say that summer is the perfect time for children to get ahead in building skills and experience for the journey to and through college and lifelong success. “It’s never too early to start building your future,” says Jonathan Mathis, director of the National Honor Societies. “The down time during the long vacation can be an ideal opportunity to make progress working toward this goal.” As part of “Honor Your Future Now,” an NHS and NJHS campaign to encourage students to prepare now for college and success beyond, the National Honor Societies are offering the following advice to families with collegebound students: • Don’t Wait: No matter what grade your student is entering in the fall, encourage extracurricular and cocurricular opportunities that foster well-roundedness. • Be a Leader: Encourage participation in leadership programs to learn important skills like resourcefulness, problem-solving and cooperation. Becoming a strong leader early can help your student throughout college and his or her career. • Build Character: Teach your student about the importance of dem-

character can serve as the foundation for future success. • Give Back: Suggest joining volunteer projects that your student is passionate about, and emphasize the importance of being active in and giving back to your community. • Find a Voice: It’s important for your student to understand his or her role and rights as a citizen. Take advantage of this election year to talk with your child about the political process and why it’s critical to get involved. • Be There For Your Child: Getting to and through college can be daunting for students, but teaching the values of scholarship, service, leadership, character and citizenship can help children prepare for college and beyond. Involved parents can make a lasting positive impact. • Understand Finances: College costs can be overwhelming. It’s never too early to start planning. Spend time with your child this summer researching what needbased and merit-based financial aid options are available. Talk to your child about putting some of the money earned through jobs or received as gifts into a savings account, such as the 529 plan. More tips and resources for parents and students can be found at HonorYourFutureNow.org. Between the sun and fun of summer, help your child spend time now preparing for college, career and a lifetime of success. It’s never too early to begin thinking about a successful future. (StatePoint)

Consider getting ahead of mosquitoes with a non-toxic control that feeds them something they’ll die for, such as Terminix AllClear Mosquito BAIT & KILL, which is the only ready-to-use, DIY spray to employ ATSB technology. And while deadly for mosquitoes, its natural active ingredient is nontoxic, safe around people and pets, and is environmentally friendly. “I like the idea of a long lasting bait-and-kill approach that finally gives homeowners the power to kill mosquitoes before they can kill outdoor fun,” says Kraeutler. To learn more about the ATSB method of mosquito control, visit baitandkill.com. Community Watch Each year municipalities nationwide undertake efforts to control mosquitoes, but citizens can contribute by doing their part protecting their backyard and family. Clean up trash quickly and promptly. Patch screens or close doors to keep mosquitoes from flying indoors, and report areas of infestations. With a few extra steps you can take back your backyard and make it a fun haven all summer long. (StatePoint)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

How Selfies And Self-Produced Videos Are Changing The Way We Communicate

The way we communicate and relate to one another is rapidly evolv-

video, photo and written content that allows them to express opin-

videos to express themselves more fully. Users are taking to multiple platforms -- including Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook Live -- to share richer details of their everyday lives through streaming video content as a way of cultivating their own personal brand to their followers.

ing, and new platforms and applications are constantly feeding that change. At the center of it all is the ability for individuals to create their own

ions and thoughts in real-time.

“Millennials are attracted to selfies and mobile videos as a way of sharing their opinions and voices,” says Jarret Streiner, CEO and President of Selfeo, an immersive, interactive video distribution platform that encourages users to engage with one another.

It is estimated that while average millennials will take 25,000 selfies in a lifetime, they are replacing the static selfie with self-produced

“Self-produced video and picture content brings about a whole new form of expression to users.”

nered with TerraCycle to inspire less waste going to landfills.

to reduce trash by just one pound per week.

With the average American pro-

Reducing waste is actually easier than you may think!

Users are offering real-time reactions on a variety of topics from the must-watch series finale to the big game. In this election year, new trends -- and controversies -- have also emerged. For example, the socalled “selfie-ballot” has become a popular way to celebrate civic engagement -- whereby voters post Election Day pictures and videos to their social media accounts; however some states are banning the practice due to general restrictions on photography in the voting booth. “Video-distribution platforms are taking on a growing relevance in the lives of individuals, because they provide an alternative platform to mainstream media. Society is dealing with the result-

ing changes,” says Streiner. Brands too are getting in on the trend, using social media platforms to connect with consumers via mobile video. While only 24 percent of national brands are now using online video to market to consumers, according to Kantar Media, that percentage will likely grow. “Brands’ mobile video is taking a central role in influencing our purchasing decisions,” says Streiner. With these types of social media capabilities so readily available to consumers, and a growing number of people looking for active engagement with one another on the hot topics of the day, experts say that mobile video and selfies are here to stay. (Statepoint)

Six Simple Tips To Reduce Waste In Your Home

The amount of trash people produce has increased a whopping 10,000 percent over the past 100 years, according to Terracycle, a

Some simple tips from TerraCycle to reach that one pound goal include: • Use reusable containers when possible when packing lunch for you and your family.

company that handles hard-to recycle materials. To make a difference, personal care company Tom’s of Maine part-

ducing over 30 pounds of trash per week, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, the #LessWasteChallenge is a simple pledge that encourages households

Modernize and green your banking by requesting to receive your bills online. Likewise, environmental group 41pounds.org says you can reduce paper waste by 41 pounds annually by unsubscribing from junk mail lists, and sending greetings online versus using paper holiday and birthday cards.

They travel better and reduce waste.

• Kitchens can also be a wasteful place. Skip the paper plates and take the extra moment to use real dishes.

• Thirsty? Start carrying a reusable water bottle with you to refill throughout the day.

Likewise, swap out paper towels and stick to reusable dishtowels instead.

By doing so, you can prevent over three pounds of plastic from ending up in a landfill each year, according to Ban the Bottle.

• Choose toiletries wisely. For example, opt for a razor with changeable cartridges instead of throwing out the disposable variety each week.

• The average person’s yearly bill payments require the use of 23 pounds of wood to produce, according to Pay it Green Alliance.

Likewise, seek out brands that package products with recycled materials that can be recycled

again after use. • Be sure to learn what is recyclable in your jurisdiction and also put these materials in the proper bins. Also consider reaching out to TerraCycle to sign up your community or home for some of their recycling programs. It’s an easy way to keep items out of landfills, while also raising money for your favorite cause! Are you up to the challenge of reducing waste this year? You can learn more by going to TomsofMaine.com/LessWaste to easily take the #LessWasteChallenge pledge with just one click. A few simple steps today can help secure a happy and healthy future for our children and the generations yet to come. (Statepoint)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Blue Light And Your Eyes: What You Need To Know By the time average American children reach age 17, their eyes will have spent the equivalent of nearly six years looking at digital devices, according to findings from a new survey by VSP Vision Care. While the survey shows that parents are concerned with increasing screen time, it found that nearly 60

light emitted from digital devices -- and its impact on vision. As blue light enters the eye, it causes visual strain because it is defocused in front of the retina and scatters, creating an effect visually perceived as glare. The eyes are then forced to work

From smartphones, to tablets, laptops, televisions, and even CFL and LED lighting, today’s family is surrounded by devices that produce blue light. As we spend increasing amounts of time staring at screens, blue light exposure is reaching unprecedented levels. This has led to an alarming increase in reports of digital eye strain, especially amongst children who are experiencing tired, sore eyes, headaches and trouble focusing.

percent have little to no awareness of blue light -- the high-energy

overtime to focus and process the wavelengths of light.

“At home, in classrooms and at work, our eyes are exposed to blue light,” says VSP optometrist, Dr. Gary Morgan. “Technology continues to change the way we live and allows us to be more efficient and connected, but despite its benefits, we must be mindful of the impact of increased blue light exposure on our eyes.”

Dr. Morgan offers the following tips to reduce blue light exposure and maintain good eye health. • Get an Eye Exam: An annual trip to the eye doctor is critical for the entire family. Ask your eye doctor about the best options to help reduce eye strain, including eyeglass lenses with coatings that reflect and absorb blue light, like Sharper Image TechShield. • Observe the 20/20/20 Rule: Give eyes a break every 20 minutes and spend 20 seconds looking at something at least 20 feet away. • Maintain Digital Distance: Find a comfortable working distance from your screen. This is especially important for children, since the intensity of light increases exponentially the closer our eyes are to light sources. Children have shorter arms and therefore receive a more intense dose of blue light from devices. They should hold

devices as far away from their eyes as is comfortable. • Lower Screen Brightness: Turn down the brightness level of device screens to reduce blue light exposure, especially during evening hours. • Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Blue light can slow melatonin production, which helps us sleep. Reducing exposure to blue light a couple of hours before bed may make it easier to go to sleep. More information about the effects of blue light and protection options can be found at SharperImageVision.com. “While medical research continues to study possible long-term health impacts of blue light, we can take practical steps to reduce exposure, ease digital eye strain and maintain good vision,” says Dr. Morgan. (StatePoint)

Simple And Easy Ways To Update Your Beauty Routine Although beauty secrets are often kept confidential, some are willing to pass on their tips to help others update their beauty routine.

Hydrate

Here are some beauty tips from the discount experts at Dollar General

Whether it’s a sports drink enhanced with electrolytes or a sim-

Never underestimate the effects of staying hydrated.

Keep water readily available to ensure you always meet the recommended amount of consumption for your level of activity and the weather. Protect Your Skin To avoid exposing your skin to damaging sunlight, use sunscreen every time you head outdoors. Purchase both spray and creambased sunscreens for the entire family at major discount retailers like Dollar General, which offer affordable prices on this essential. Sunscreen can also help keep your skin radiant, while avoiding harmful sunrays. Cleanse and Refresh

to help you look healthy, revitalized and ready for any special occasion without spending a fortune.

ple bottle of distilled water, staying hydrated helps keep your skin wrinkle-free and gives your body energy throughout the day.

Cleansing your face every evening is just as important as getting ready for your day each morning. By removing any make-up or products off of your face before bed,

you allow your skin a chance to recharge overnight in preparation for the next day. Always have makeup removal wipes on hand and invest in an exfoliating face wash to remove excess dirt and dead skin from your face. Celebrate a Day of Beauty Beauty events are a great way to learn strategies for looking your best. For example, you can gain more beauty tips and advice by taking a trip to Tennessee this summer. Dollar General is hosting a Day of

Beauty in downtown Nashville on Saturday, July 16, 2016, so beauty enthusiasts can learn more about multi-cultural hair products, as well as attend free demonstrations and seminars. Free samples will also be provided. For more information, visit www. DollarGeneral.com. Don’t let updating your beauty routine break the bank. By following these simple and affordable tips, you’ll be looking your best in no time! (StatePoint)

MEN CAN COOK! Info@Austin SouthAsian.com

Austin South Asian | June 2016

How To Select Perfect Personalized Gifts For The Women In Your Life

Birthdays and special occasions are all about making someone feel special.

ones the recipient will use most. But practical doesn’t have to mean plain.

loves. A cutting board personalized with a favorite family recipe makes a beautiful addition to any kitchen.

What better way to do that than with a thoughtful gift picked with her unique style and personality in mind?

Whether she loves to cook or it’s

And if she can’t get going without her morning coffee, a Contigo travel mug personalized with a fun message written for her will put a smile on her face, even on Mondays.

“Whether you opt for something extravagant or something she’ll use all the time, when you personalize a gift, you know you’re getting the special woman in your life something no one else selected,” says Christopher Warnack, director of marketing at Things Remembered, a leading retailer of personalized gifts.

Fashionable For fashion-forward women, complement her sophisticated or quirky fashion sense with a oneof-a-kind handbag.

With 50 years of experience helping people create gifts and accessories, the experts at Things Remembered are sharing some ideas for creating unforgettable personalized gifts for women. Practical Sometimes the best gifts are the

A leather tote bag personalized with a monogram in shiny gold foil will upgrade her daytime style. another family member’s duty, there’s probably a great recipe she

And to help her stand out from the crowd at night, accessorize her eveningwear with a

leather and gold medallion purse with her engraved monogram. Want to add a detail that makes it just from you? Engrave a secret message card with a special note and add it to her purse. Sentimental From keepsake and shadowboxes to memorable pieces of jewelry, special occasions are the perfect time to get sentimental. Daughters can consider gifting Mom a matching bracelet, inscribed with nicknames or lines from a shared favorite song. Or, give that special woman a home for her second most valuable possessions. A jewelry box, whether mirrored, lacquered, leather or wood, can be personalized with a special note to add more meaning.

Fun For those women who know how to have fun, consider something unique and cool. A colorful, personalized tote bag, complete with a fun, quirky message will assist her on her trips to the farmer’s market, the spa or the gym. Listed as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2015, the Corkcicle Vinnebago is another fun gift to consider. The vacuum-sealed, insulated bottle travels well and carries a full bottle of wine. You can add a name or fun quip to personalize the gift. When choosing gifts, think beyond the usual items to show you truly understand your gift recipient’s personality and interests. (StatePoint)

What Every Small Business Owner Needs To Know About Hiring

Looking to staff up your small business? Don’t underestimate the importance of getting your hiring decisions right. The smaller your business is, the more important your choices become.

one new, with 18 percent spending between $301 and $1,200 and another 12 percent spending over $1,200, according to Monster’s “Small Business, Big Hire Survey” conducted by Braun Research.

• You’re only as strong as your weakest link, and the wrong person on your team could be detrimental to your entire operation. Among small business owners in

“While searching for employees does take you away from your primary duties of running a business, it’s crucial to pay close attention to the task,” says Meredith Hanrahan, SVP of Small Business Solutions at Monster, a global leader in connecting people to jobs.

• Small business owners tend to have a packed schedule and a strict budget. The process of finding great job candidates can put a strain on both of these scarce resources, if not managed wisely. To find and hire someone with the grit necessary to succeed in a small business, consider using services

“The right or wrong hire can actually make or break your business.”

that help streamline this important task quickly and on-budget. Several tools from sites like Monster, such as social recruiting and targeted emails to top candidates, as well as campaigns and alerts from potential candidates, can increase search results and ultimately save time and money. You built your business from scratch by the power of your determination and unique vision. Don’t underestimate the importance of building a great team to go with it. (StatePoint)

To Advertise In ASA

When adding employees to your business, here are a few important things to consider: • Hiring can be expensive. Thirtyone percent of small business owners spend over $300 to hire some-

it will negatively impact the company’s reputation (68 percent) and lead to decreased productivity (62 percent). Maintain your brand’s integrity by building the ideal team.

Don’t duplicate this expense with a wrong decision!

the same study, the top reasons why hiring the wrong person puts their business at risk include the fact that

512-828-6709

Austin South Asian | June 2016

PRATHAM AUSTIN: How YOU Can Help Make A Difference In People’s Lives

(Continued From Page 01) Pratham was originally established in 1994 to provide pre-school education in slums in Mumbai. Now it has programs in 21 states in India and supporting chapters in the US,

Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam, and other cities. The Austin chapter also supports rural learning camps in 400 villages, and three second-chance programs targeted to girls and young

lighted the economic success of Indians in the US and their power to improve conditions for the less fortunate in India. In prior years, a Dancing with the Stars event was very popular. The 2016 Pratham Gala is scheduled for September 17 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Barton Springs Road. SAVE THE DATE! The Readathon is a program in which children in the US get pledges from family member and friends to read books to support Pratham’s goals of improving literacy and education. Each child gets a page on the Readathon website through which donations can be made.

UK, Germany and the UAE. There are 14 chapters in the US, Houston being the first and largest, and Austin being the newest (and fastest growing) chapter. Pratham USA now reaches over 40 million children through literacy and vocational programs and has expanded its scope to include upper primary school children, female dropouts and young adults. Pratham USA has been consistently identified by Charity Navigator as the top 5% of all nonprofit charities. Inspired by Pratham’s model of improving child learning on a large scale at low cost, eight countries have adopted Pratham’s methods. Pratham Austin was the brainchild of Vandana Kumar and Ashish Gupta who both came up with the idea independently but then joined forces. The current co-presidents are Sheetal Nasta and Isha Paul. They are supported by an Executive Board and an Advisory Board, and work closely with a Pratham chapter that is based at the University of Texas at Austin. Last year the Pratham Austin chapter was able to support 12 urban learning centers -- preschools, strengthening reading and numeracy skills, libraries -- in Ahmedabad, Baroda,

women dropouts. Pratham UT, currently led by president Srinidhi Shyamkumar, hosts many fundraising events and contributes to the overall fundraising efforts of the Pratham Austin chapter. Popular annual events are the annual Basketball Tournament and the Ultimate Frisbee Tournament. The students also serve as volunteers and are a mainstay at the Pratham Austin annual fundraising gala. The major function of Pratham Austin is to raise funds for Pratham programs in India. The primary ways for doing so are a a big Annual Pratham Austin Gala that takes place in September each year, a Readathon where children get pledges to read books, and corporate and individual donations. As Mamata Misra, a Pratham Board member put it, “Anybody can participate, and a small donation goes a long way. $25 supports one child for the entire year.” Last year the Pratham Austin Gala was attended by more than 400 people and raised over $160,000. In his keynote address Wall Street Journal columnist Sadanand Dhume high-

Some parents have taken the Readathon program to their children’s schools, and, on occasion, the entire school has worked to support the Readathon goals. In other instances, the program has been supported by colleagues and neighbors. The kickoff date for the Austin Readathon is June 12 and will continue through the summer. The effort of each child will be recognized, and prizes will be awarded in different categories. If you have or know a child that wants to participate, please go to the following website and follow instructions to set up a Member Page for the child: http:// pratham.seeyourimpact.org/ readathon2016/ . Registration for the program is now open so that there is no need to wait till June 12.

Pratham USA has also started a pilot project which offers a 3 week internship for student interns at the PACE center in Aurangabad this summer. Pratham will take a group of 10 candidates between the age group 17 - 21 to visit and participate in Pratham programs in India. For more information on this internship program please contact: info@prathamusa.org So how can you participate and help? First, you can simply donate on the Prathan Austin website. A chapter can often specify the state (or states) in India in which it wants donations to be used. Second, you can buy tickets for the gala. You can even try and get your company and organization to be a sponsor. Second, get a child involved with the Readathon. Get

your colleagues and neighbors to be sponsors to support your child. Also, you can try and get your child’s school and teachers involved. Last year, two young readers raised over $2000! But any amount helps … participation is the important thing. Pratham Austin is also looking for volunteers who can help with event planning and using social media. If you have skills in these areas, please contact Austin@prathamusa.org. Become part of the Pratham community in Austin. One in five people in India, including 100 million children, cannot read or write. More than 50% of India’s fifth graders cannot read a second-grade text. You can make a difference and change that!

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Put Your Phone Away: Distracted Driving Includes Hands-Free Talking In an age of constant communication and connectivity, it can be difficult to take a break. But drive time is when your phone should take a backseat to safety, say experts. “You don’t need to be texting to be distracted by your phone,” says Kelly Nantel, vice president of communications and advocacy at the National Safety Council. “Even handsfree talking is a major distraction.” Research indicates drivers using handheld and hands-free phones only see about 50 percent of all the information in their driving environment. This phenomenon is known as “inattention blindness,” similar to tunnel vision. While multitasking is valued in today’s culture, researchers find that the human brain doesn’t actually perform two tasks at the same time but rather switches attention between tasks. At your desk, this can be an effective and efficient way to work, but behind

“It is a sad irony that the people we love are actually jeopardizing our safety the most,” says Nantel. “If you really care, don’t call to say, ‘I love you,’ instead encourage your family to set everything else aside, disconnect and focus only on the road.” To prioritize safety and reduce your risk of being involved in a crash, turn your commute into “me time,” and your car into a safe sanctuary. The National Safety Council is offering some tips to take back your drive. • Turn off your phone when you get in the car. • Tell your family (and anyone else expecting to hear from you) that you will be driving and will call or text them when you are parked at your destination. • Send emails and texts before you start driving. • Return the favor. When friends, family or colleagues are driving, refrain from placing distracting calls or sending texts.

the wheel, “multitasking” can be deadly. From checking GPS, to firing up a drive time playlist, there are countless smartphone-related reasons why people take their mind off the road. And newer in-vehicle systems allow drivers to call, text, email, update social media and browse the Internet, despite research showing these systems cause distraction that can linger after the driver finishes the task. One of the major reasons drivers today are so distracted is one of the most surprising -pressure from your family. Indeed 82 percent of Americans feels their family pressures them the most -- above friends or employers -- to drive distracted, according to a recent NSC survey.

D r i v e r distractions have joined alcohol and speeding as leading factors in fatal and serious injury crashes. In recent years, thousands of people have died in crashes when drivers used cell phones. The issue has started capturing the attention of political leaders nationwide and some are taking action to improve laws that promote safe driving, though no law goes far enough, say safety experts, because no law prohibits hands-free use. To learn more about the dangers of distracted driving and efforts to end this public health crisis, visit distracteddriving.nsc.org. Driving contains enough risk. So put the phone away and encourage those you love to do the same. (StatePoint)

‘Economic Engine Award’ By Sumaiya Malik On Friday, May 20, the Asian Chamber of Commerce held their annual Ovation ceremony at the JW Marriott to recognize outstanding individuals in the American Asian business community. Ovation is the annual celebration during Asian Pacific American (APA) Heritage Month,

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Sufi Rock And Bollywood Soul At Flamingo Cantina

360Training, a leading online classroom deBy Sumaiya Malik livering elearning marketplace. The company provides best-in-class training content for workforce compliance, continuing education, professional development, and career certification, as well as learning and content management software.

On April 29, for the first time ever, three South Asian music groups performed at the Flamingo Cantina on 5th street. At times packed and at times sparse, the crowd continued to cheer for the bands till 1 a.m.

Since 1999, the company’s course libraries have grown to include more than 15 industries and 6,000 individual titles. Joining the list of over 3 million learners who have chosen 360training.com to meet their training needs are businesses, training providers, associations, colleges, universities, and subject matter experts.

This year the Economic Engine Award went to

She currently lives in Austin and is a popular musician. People who listen to her are mesmerized by her flawless and smooth transition between eastern and western music. Her Lal Meri Pat Rakhio Balal julay laal was a heart stealer. The Raag of Ages had great response as most of thee crowd had come to support them. Dr. Fida Khan, their lead vocalist, came ready to, ‘rock the house.’ And rock the house he did! The crowd cheered and danced when he sang Allan Faqir’s ‘Ho Allah’. The last act was of Ali Pervaiz Mehdi who stole the show with a hit song after song.

Pakistani American Adnan Sattar, the CEO of 360Training received the award for his company. He is also the company’s founder and has steadily grown his business into a global entity.

when businesses and organizations, which have made contributions to the economic success of the region, are recognized.

on the side. The show started with Nagavalli, a professional singer who receive her musical training in India.

The Austin South Asian asked Imran Baqai, one of the founders of Raag of Ages about what the band learned from its performance on 5th Street. Imran was candid. He said performances like these teach a number of lessons in one go.

This was a formal dinner and black tie event with more than 500 attendees. The ceremony started with an amazing performance by I-illuminate. The lifetime achievement award went to Secretary Maneta appointed by George W Bush who was also present. Also present was Mr. Afzal Mahmud, the Ali Pervaiz Mehdi, Nagavalli and Raag Houston Consulate General of Pakistan, the of Ages took turns to have their moments current mayor of Austin Steve Adler and the on the stage. The venue is a large panformer mayor Lee Leffingwell. eled room with standing room and a bar

He hopes that the group will have more opportunities like these to introduce their kind of music to Austin and beyond. For over 23 years, the Flamingo Cantina has been known as the people’s favorite venue in Austin, Texas to see what we call “good vibes music” – live reggae, ska, latin and worldbeat music, as well as rock, hip hop, alternative and more.

2 YEARS OF MODI (

Continued

from

page

Jan Dhan Yojana Anyone can now open an account in a bank, thanks to this financial inclusion scheme. Barely a fortnight after the launch, the yojana entered the Guiness Book of World Records for the maximum number of accounts opened in a week. The scheme is a big boost in moving towards direct subsidy transfer. LPG subsidy reforms Initially started as a ‘Give It Up’ campaign, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry headed byDharmendra Pradhan barred LPG subsidy to customers who earn more than Rs. 10 lakh per annum. The amount saved was used to give over five lakh new LPG

connections to those who still use firewoods or kerosene stoves for cooking. Swachh Bharat Mission A pet project of Mr. Modi, sanitation ministry’s Swachh Bharat mission got wide public support, especially on social media after celebrities joined the Clean India challenge. Not just stopping with cleaning the locality, the government has taken initiatives such as building more toilets, waste management and waste segregation. Real success, will however happen, when manual scavenging is completely eradicated. India-Bangladesh land boundary agreement When India is facing boundary

disputes with every neighbour, this agreement gives optimism that issues can be amicably solved over diplomacy. The people living in the enclaves that were recently annexed to India even exercised their franchise in the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections. Bankruptcy code At a time when bankers were grappling with huge rise in nonperforming assets and government eyeing to create more entrepreneurs, the amendment of existing bankruptcy laws was necessary. With the support from Congress, the law was passed in Rajya Sabha during the Budget Session where the ruling party was short of numbers.

Real Estate regulation Apart from making the process transparent and keeping checks and balances in the form of a Real Estate Regulatory Authority, the law drafted by Housing Ministry headed by M. Venkaiah Naidu gave confidence to home-buyers. When housing sector contributes to nine per cent of GDP, this law, if effectively implemented by the States, is a game-changer in the housing sector. Yoga Day India’s lobbying got success when the United Nations declared June 21 as International Yoga Day. The mass yoga performance at Rajpath, which was led by Mr. Modi himself, set the record of most number of people participating in such an

event. Mann Ki Baat A first such initiative in India where a top leader addresses millions, that too periodically. The programme even featured U.S. President Barack Obama during his visit to India. Digital India This flagship programme of Ravi Shankar Prasad’s Communications Ministry aiming to create a knowledge economy and good governance is travelling in the right path. Every minister and every ministry is now on Twitter. A slew of e-governance measures like digital locker and feedbacks through mygov.in are some notable initiatives. (Courtesy - The Hindu)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

AUSTIN INDUSTRIAL MARKET VACANCY HITS 16-YEAR LOW Following a strong performance in 2015, the Austin industrial market delivered solid first quarter start in 2016.

the citywide vacancy rate to 9.1% compared to 9.4% last quarter and 14.3% recorded last year at this time.

According to the survey of more

Notable Flex/R&D leases included

pressure on rental rates. In response to the principles of supply and demand, asking rents bumped up in the first quarter,” says Kimberly Gatley, Senior Vice President and Director of Research for

line next quarter. Buildings 12 & 13 at Expo Business Park will deliver a combined 193,600 square feet later this year. Several more speculative projects are on the horizon including Tech Ridge 2.1 (76,400 sf) and Tech Ridge 3.1 (115,200 sf) but buildto-suit projects still account for the largest projects currently underway. Cortec Precision Sheetmetal, Inc., for example, recently broke ground on its new 120,000-square-foot facility at 130 Commerce Center.

Capitol Wright Distributing is building a new 500,000-squarefoot distribution center on 40 acres located at Hwy. 290 and SH 130. Meanwhile, the former Sysco Food facility (200,411 sf) in Round Rock is being converted into a food processing plant for Pro-Portion Food and construction continues on the Amazon Fulfillment Center (855,000 sf) in San Marcos. “New construction, rising rental rates and a vacancy rate not seen since 2000 demonstrate the strength of Austin’s industrial market,” Heare concludes.

Two Summer Picnic Basket Ideas For Foodies than 38 million square feet of industrial lease space, new leases and expansions translated into positive absorption with tenants taking down a net of 290,721 square feet in the first three months of the year. With no new buildings added to the inventory so far this year, the citywide vacancy rate tightened to 6.4% marking a 16-year low. The current vacancy rate is down compared to 6.9% last quarter and substantially improved compared to 9.8% recorded twelve months ago. “The improvement is even more significant considering that over the course of last year more than 552,000 square feet of new industrial lease space was added to the market,” says Mark Milstead, Senior Vice President, Industrial Services, REOC Austin, a locallybased commercial real estate company. Demand for Flex/R&D space generated 100,690 square feet of positive net absorption in the first three months of the year which improved

CPS (27,866 sf) at Promontory Point F2 and Volusion (17,256 sf) at Kramer 6. Outperforming the Flex/R&D market by nearly two to one, the Warehouse market experienced 190,031 square feet of positive net absorption in the first quarter led by the Northeast sector which recorded 132,830 square feet.

REOC Austin. The cost of renting office warehouse space currently ranges between $0.60 - $0.85 per square foot per month on a triple net basis while the price for bulk warehouse ranges between $0.45 - $0.65.

Harris Ridge Business Center 5 (154,370 sf), which was delivered to the market late last year, landed Sherri Hill, Inc. (54,460 sf).

Asking rental rates for area Flex properties range between $0.80 $1.25 per square foot per month. “Given the market’s strong fundamentals, tenants should expect rental rates to continue to climb,” adds Gatley.

At the close of the first quarter, the citywide warehouse vacancy rate dropped to an incredibly tight 5.1% which is down from 5.6% last quarter and 7.4% recorded a year ago.

“Despite the strong fundamentals, developers are exercising discipline regarding speculative development,” says Jerry Heare, SIOR, Senior Vice President, REOC Austin.

In addition, two newly inked leases are expected to add to the positive trend next quarter with LKQ Corporation (126,782 sf) and Goodwill Industries (95,672 sf) at Heritage Crossing.

Only three industrial lease buildings totalling less than 266,000 square feet were under construction in the first quarter; all located in the Southeast sector.

“Constrained supply and sustained demand continue to put upward

MetCenter II, Building 12, a 72,000-square-foot Flex/R&D building, is expected to come on-

It’s finally picnic season, and there’s no reason to stick to basic flavors when dining al fresco. “My mantra is ‘eat cheese, drink

wine, and live life happy,’” says R. Kent Torrey, president and CEO (aka, “Cheese Eating Oenophile”) of The Cheese Shop, Inc., in Carmel, CA, which features wine, gastronomic gourmet foods, and on any given day up to 200 different cheeses. To help make your basket-andblanket feast delicious, he has shared two picnic basket ideas for lovers of both white and red wine.

White Wine Bright, clean and balanced wines are ideal to enjoy in the sun. Consider Sequoia Grove Napa Valley

Chardonnay, which has a crisp finish that is ideal for pairing with cheese. Pair it with Pilota, a creamy cow and sheep milk blend cheese from the French Pyrénées. The rich cow’s milk offers a nice contrast to the wine’s crisp finish, (Continued On Page 18)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

A Guide To Saving Water And Your Lawn

No longer must you choose be-

When to Water

fits almost any controller and installs in minutes.

prived of oxygen and may become more susceptible to disease.

This helps eliminate guesswork by continuously monitoring soil moisture levels to prevent the system from overwatering.

When in Drought Avoid lawn mowing during heat and drought.

Limit Water Intake Friell says a general rule to keep in mind is that turfgrass does better when managed on the dry side rather than wet. When soil is constantly wet, grass roots are de-

tween your lawn and saving water. Experts say there are ways to save both water and money that won’t hurt your turf. “We often see sprinklers watering sidewalks and drives, running during rain, or sending water down the drain from leaky heads,” says Josh Friell, Ph. D, senior agronomist of The Toro Company’s Center for Advanced Turf Technology. “The good news is there are simple, cost-effective actions homeowners can take to save up to 30 percent in outdoor water usage alone.” Friell recommends these lawn-care watering tips: First Things First Most timed sprinklers water in the early morning, without homeowner attention. At the beginning of the season, run each zone briefly during daylight hours to see how the system is operating. Look for broken lines or damaged sprinkler heads, and inspect spray patterns to ensure water isn’t wasted.

Experts suggest watering deeply and infrequently. This helps wet the entire root zone and encourages deeper root growth, which helps the lawn better tolerate mild to moderate drought. It is best to water in the early morning around 4 to 5 a.m., as this gives lawns time to absorb the moisture and prevents evaporation due to daytime heat. How Much to Water During summer, your grass should receive between 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water weekly, including natural precipitation. Water requirements vary by turf variety, local weather conditions, and site conditions such as shade. Your local university extension office can be a good source of information to assist in understanding local conditions. The total water applied can be determined by placing a rain gauge or empty tuna cans around your yard prior to an irrigation cycle. Another option is to install a wireless soil moisture sensor, like the Toro Precision Soil Sensor, which

Lawns under such stress have limited ability to recover from mowing and can be damaged even more. Instead, mow after a rainfall or irrigation day. Finally, maintaining higher mowing heights will help turf tolerate the heat and drought of summer. Doing so also requires less frequent mowing, which means more time to enjoy your lawn!

Water Rebates Many cities and water agencies across the U.S. offer water conservation and rebate programs to homeowners to encourage adoption of more efficient irrigation solutions. Find a list of the latest rebates at watersmart.toro.com/rebates/. You can learn more about proper watering at watersmart.toro.com. With the right watering techniques, you can save water, money and time while maintaining a healthy lawn. (Statepoint)

Two Summer Picnic Basket Ideas For Foodies

(Continued From Page 17)

while the sheep milk’s slightly salty tang emphasizes the Chardonnay’s fruity flavors. Another cheese pairing to consider is Grafton Village’s Truffle Cheddar from Vermont; the subtle, earthy truffles pair well with the vibrant fruit and crisp acidity in the Chardonnay. For some added nibbles to complete your picnic, throw in some wildflower honey straws to complement the cheese, along with Greek mix olives, salami, Marcona almonds, and cranberry hazelnut bread. Red Wine For those who prefer red wine, Sequoia Grove Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a deliciously versatile food-friendly selection that features blackberry and red cherry flavors, sweet spice notes, and smooth tannins. Pair this wine with full-flavored nutty cheeses such as Fourmage,

a Dutch Gouda made of cow, goat, sheep and water buffalo milk, that has a subtle earthiness to match this concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon.

Another pairing to consider is Comté Cyclaman, a special late winter release from the Jura Mountains in France, which has nutty, fruit forward flavors from cow’s milk, along with “crunchy crystals,” (natural minerals found in milk that crystalize from extended cheese aging), that accentuate the dynamic red berry fruits in the wine.

Cabernet Sauvignon picnic basket “must haves” include dry tart cherries to pique the red fruit notes of the wine, as well as walnuts that marry well with the balanced tannins of the Cabernet. For more food and wine picnic ideas, visit TheCheeseShopInc. com and SequoiaGrove.com. This summer, pair delicious, foodfriendly wines with great bites to elevate picnics to another level. (statepoint)

CHILDREN ARTICLES Children Email Us Your Articles To See It In Print

info@austinsouthasian.com

Austin South Asian | June 2016

June - 2016 Predictions

ARIES (March 21 to April 20): You may lack confidence and may not get full credit for hard work. Tension about career will kind of disappear and you will receive full support from new boss. You may need new pair of glasses or need to have eye sight tested for first time. Think twice and read completely before you sign that important document. Money will go on an upcoming trip. TAURUS (April 21 to May 20): Pressure at work will increase and the new associates will be less cooperative. You will still have a big chance to prove your intelligence in front of new people who soon may make an interesting offer. Some of you may start a business loan process too. Just have confidence and do not be shaky. You may have to take a trip on a very short notice. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): If you become double minded and ignore the past experience, others will again use you. Business will keep growing from now and on and you may be offered another deal by totally new group. Try to cut down on nicotine and caffeine for some

time. Someone from different race will create lots Of distraction in mind. You will have a visitor in the house. CANCER (June 21 to July 22): You may finally make up your mind to get out of tricky relationship and start focusing on real issues. Strong planets will help you achieve your goals easily. You may receive some valuable gifts from in laws too. Financial pressure will suddenly disappear and you will be on the right track. Value of your stocks and other assets will appreciate. LEO (July 23 to August 22): Stress level will come down quickly and you will be relaxed after finishing the project. Planets assure success in career from now and on. Meetings will go very well and you will be given the hint. Spouse may not feel too good and need over the counter medication and a small break. Some one from past will try to come back in your life, be careful. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22): You need to spend more time and energy to turn your brilliant idea into a lucrative

business. Legal matters may come to a favorable end. You may be getting ready for an upcoming overseas trip also. Spouse will need strong medication to tackle the problem. Money will come but will be difficult to preserve for some more time. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22): Face issues head on, if you want them to get resolved quickly. You will be working in a tough atmosphere and against heavy odds. Patience and favorable planets will take you closer to ultimate goals. Money on hold will finally show up in the account. People in business will spend more on advertising. You will miss someone badly. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 22): Move could take final shape as the application will get approved. There will be improvement on financial front but at a slow speed. This month will take you closer to few very ambitious people who could be helpful in future. Enemies will leave you alone from now. You will spend little time on phone to straighten some wrong or excess billing.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 to December 22): You may have to work lot harder to stay well ahead of the competition. Just ignore the critics and stick to your plans. You will have the chance to make quick money through stocks and bonds. Try your hand at lottery also this month. You will be unhappy with the comments made by a close relative. You will be working on a short trip. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19): You will be amazed to see how things can change if you are honest and offer them something different. People involved in research and development work will see the breakthrough. A loan application pending for quite some time will also go through. You will need to maintain a tough stand if you want to teach others a lesson. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18): You will become more heath conscious and may even join a health club. Presence of Jupiter in first will make you far sighted and you will be looking for long term benefits in everything. You will get several

now contracts this month. Some of you may develop taste for red meat also. You will spend time with successful people and learn something. PISCES (February 19 to March 20): Hold your emotions when someone changes plans in midstream. Once you realize what is truly important, you will adjust quickly. Some of you will be working hard for an upcoming interview and fill up a thick application. People in business will be happy to see reduced competition. You will take time out for entertainment with the family.

parashar@parashar.com www.parashar.com 510-886-4370

KHOLI FOR CAPTAIN Former Team Director of the Indian cricket team Ravi Shastri on Monday made it clear that had he been the chairman of selectors, he would have thought about making “Virat Kohli the captain in all three formats” and let Mahendra Singh Dhoni “enjoy his game”. Asked if he feels that Kohli is ready for leading across all formats, Shastri told India Today channel: “If I am the chairman of selectors, I would be thinking in that fashion, absolutely. It is it time to start thinking. You have to see India has no major event in three years till 2019 World Cup. This is your best

chance to think and build.” Shastri also made it clear that Dhoni can still contribute as a player. “By no stretch of imagination, you are taking anything away from MS. He can still contribute massively as a player. Time has come to allow him to enjoy himself, enjoy the game. It also depends on how much hungry MS is, how passionate he is, whether the juices are still flowing. It’s a Catch-22 situation but you have to take hard decisions.” Shastri reminded that one needs to think that they have groomed Kohli as a leader over a period of time.

“A time has come where you have a guy you have groomed over a period of time, who is ready. In the next 18 months, India hardly play any ODIs, the gaps between Tests and ODIs are massive. So its time to look ahead.” Shastri said that one can take a cue from Australian template. “Mark Taylor was a great captain but they started to groom Steve Waugh. Just when you thought that Waugh was firmly there, in came Ricky Ponting and then Michael Clarke, the best captain after Mark Taylor. And now you have Steve Smith.”

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Delicious Wine And Cheese Pairing Suggestions If you’re looking for an easy entertaining idea for an impromptu gathering, a wine and cheese pairing menu is a winning option.

later. This avoids palate fatigue and allows you to best experience all of the nuances of each wine and cheese pairing to its fullest.”

bright flavors and crisp acidity of this style of wine pairs well with light style cheeses, such as Bohemian Creamery BoDacious chèvre,

Either as a light meal for oneself or an impressive entertaining centerpiece for friends, wine and cheese are the ultimate culinary companions. But how exactly do you best pair the two?

Moving on to fuller flavors, Gottreich pairs a smooth and nicely balanced red wine with soft tannins and hints of cherry, plum and chocolate, such as St. Francis Sonoma County Merlot, (at around $21 a bottle), with more complex cheeses. For example, Bohemian Creamery’s The Bomb is a sheepgoat blend washed rind cheese, washed in beer and aged in old Cabernet wine barrels.

To help home chefs and entertainers, cheesemaker Lisa Gottreich of Bohemian Creamery, who creates high-end, quality cheese for some of California’s top four-star restaurants, has paired up with St. Francis Winery to offer some delicious suggestions. “Think of a wine and cheese tasting experience as having a beginning, middle and end,” says Gottreich. “In other words, pair your lightest flavors together in the beginning of the meal and work your way towards more robust flavors

flavors of spring and summer. Serve the spreadable cheese with a plain, crusty baguette or an herb cracker that matches nicely with the slight green notes of the wine.

Gottreich advises that a good way to begin is with a light and refreshing white wine, such as St. Francis Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc. Priced around $17 a bottle, the

a fresh and tangy goat’s cheese that doesn’t override the delicate fruitiness of the Sauvignon Blanc.

The result is a cheese with slight tannin in the rind, along with a very rich, creamy center that offers a good match to the elegant Merlot. Gottreich suggests serving this pairing with Marcona almonds to add in nice, crunchy texture.

Together, they evoke simple, fresh

She recommends saving your

heartiest wine for last. A great option, which costs only about $22 a bottle is St. Francis Sonoma County Old Vine Zinfandel, made from grapes grown on 50 to 100 year-old vines that produce small quantities of concentrated fruit. The result is a full-bodied wine with deep aromas and flavors of ripe black cherries, spice, and toasted oak that pair best with a pungent cheese. Gottreich’s Boho Belle, a semi-soft cheese with hints of vanilla and made from cow’s milk, offers pungency that isn’t overwhelming for the wine. Pairing the combination with onion focaccia adds to the rich, earthy flavors. More pairing ideas can be found at stfranciswinery.com. Overall, remember to have fun with your wine and cheese pairings. With delicious, high-quality food and drink, you simply can’t go wrong. (Statepoint)

College-Bound Students: How To Get Ready For The Next 4 Years Many college-bound students and their families underestimate the cost of college. Indeed, 31 percent of students who left school without completing a degree reported they did so due to financial reasons, according to recent National Center for Education statistics.

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Then, use free resources to investigate other funding. Some of the

that can help you arrive at a realistic estimate. If necessary, look into Federal Direct PLUS loans, which can cover up to 100 percent of remaining education-related costs.

Paying for College

best scholarships can be found on sites like tuitionfundingsources. com, the largest database of scholarships in the US.

“College-bound students and their families should review grants, scholarships, and loans from a wide variety of sources,” says John Rasmussen, head of Wells Fargo’s Personal Lending Group, which is also the nation’s second largest private student lender among US banks. “After making careful comparisons, they should borrow only what they need.”

The first step all students should take toward funding college is to complete the Free Application for

It’s also helpful to know how much money you’ll need. Most school websites offer a net price calculator

A handful of private student lenders defer loan repayments until after students leave school. In the

Beyond rising tuition rates, there are many expenses to consider -books, class materials, room and board, cell phone plans, and incidentals -- to name a few. With nationwide student debt at $1.3 trillion and growing, according to the National Student Loan Debt Clock, the importance of financial planning and establishing good money habits can’t be overstated. Students can more confidently take on college and beyond with these helpful tips from the “Get College Ready” experts at Wells Fargo:

case of Wells Fargo, this date begins a full six months later -- and if new graduates need time to find a job -- the bank can extend the repayment start date up to a year. Cost-saving opportunities exist whereby students can consolidate loans or refinance into loans with a lower interest rate. These actions can help students significantly reduce costs associated with their debt. With all funding sources, it’s critical to be aware of application deadlines and the terms associated with assistance, whether it’s GPA maintenance for scholarship eligibility or an interest rate. Managing Money For many students, college is an opportunity to manage money for the first time. Fortunately, students today have financial planning tools that previous generations did not enjoy. Young people can leverage their

technology confidence to manage money by signing up for mobile banking and then setting up account alerts to avoid over-drafting. Online budgeting and expendituretracking tools can help students form sound financial habits and monitor savings. Building Credit Good credit gives you more financial freedom and choices down the road. Start building good credit while you’re still in school. Pay bills on time, don’t open too many lines of credit and keep balances low. Whenever possible, pay more than the minimum each month. Check your credit history often. Free resources that can help you plan for college can be found at wellsfargo.com/getcollegeready. Are you ready for college? Preparation is about more than test-taking and achieving solid grades -- it also means preparing financially for the next four years and beyond. (Statepoint)

Austin South Asian | June 2016

June 2016 Community Calendar We have compiled this event listing based on the information available on the web site (where ever possible) of the community/organization as of third Friday. Please check with the organizers to confirm its accuracy. We request all South Asian organizations to email us (info@austinsouthasian.com) their community calendar on or before 20th of every month, for the events happening next month. We will carry listing of all South Asian non-profit organizations in Austin. If the Name, Contact info is not correct or has changed email us (info@ austinsouthasian.com) the changes you want to see. E&OE.

SCHEDULE: June 02, Thursday, 07:00 PM, Pradosham - Abhishekam to Lord Shiva is at Austin Hindu Temple. June 04, Saturday, 10:00 AM, Shani Jayanthi A b h i s h e k a m - Every Hour and Homam - Every other Hour is at Austin Hindu Temple. June 05, Sunday, 01:30 PM, AMM organises Avishkar 2016 featuring Selfie And Naadbrahma at Austin Waldorf School Auditorium, 8700 South View Road, Austin, TX 78737. Tickets: $25, $30 & $35 June 05, Sunday, 04:00 PM - 07:30 PM, Bollywood Meets Borchet Belt is at Dell Jewish Community Campus, 7300 Hart Lane Austin, TX 78731. For more information, contact 512-994-4638. June 06, Monday - June 17, Friday, 09:00 AM - 12:00 Noon, 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM, UT Dallas Coding Camps @ HSPS Austin. The event is at Harmony School of Political Science, 13415 Ranch Rd 620 N, Austin, TX 78717. This event is organised by UT Dallas Computer Science Department. For more information, please contact 9723576893, June 17, Friday, 07:00 PM, Pradosham - Abhishekam to Lord Shiva is at Austin Hindu Temple. June 19, Sunday, 04:00 PM,

Pournami Samuhika Satyanarayana Puja Samuhika Sri Satyanarayana Puja - Devotees are requested to bring 8 Betel Leaves, 2 Coconuts, 20 Coins, 1 Red Blouse Piece for Kalasam, Flowers, Fruits and Prasadam. The pooja is at Austin Hindu Temple. June 19, Sunday, 05:00 PM, Sri Navavarana Puja is at Austin Hindu Temple. June 19, Sunday, 10:00 AM, Sri Jagannatha Deva Snana Purnima Deva Snana Purnima, an elaborate public bathing ceremony of Sri Jagannatha is at Austin Hindu Temple. June 23, Thursday, 06:30 PM,

Sankatahara Chathurthi B a l a Ganesha Abhishekam and Homam is at Austin Hindu Temple. June 24, Friday, 08:45 PM,

June 27, Monday, 09:30 AM, Shravana Nakshatram Abhishekam to Lord Venkateswar is at Austin Hindu Temple.

Johny Lever Comedy King is at AISD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 1500 Barbara Jordan Boulevard, Austin, TX 78723. For more information, contact Mr. Vishal Dave at 5127519567. For sponsorship, contact Ms. Divya at 7327715271.

Indian IT Companies To Pay $4,000 More For Every H-1B Visa (Continued from page 1) And those applying for L-1 visa petitions would have to pay $4,500 more than other US companies under the new law, which would be in effect till September 30, 2025. The H-1B visa is designed to allow US employers to recruit and employ foreign professionals in

speciality occupations within the US while L-1 visas are available to employees of an international company with offices in both the US and abroad. Indian IT firms -- which have to incur an additional burden of about $400 million annually -- have called it “discriminatory”, with

Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself raising this at the highest level. US federal Citizenship and Immigration Services ( USCIS ) posted the details of the increased fee on its website today. For H-1B petitioners, one “must pay the additional $4,000 fee” if the company employs 50 or more employees in the US and more than half of those are in H-1B, L-1A, or L-1B non-immigrant status. The figure increases to $4,500 for those applying for L-1 visas. The USCIS said the additional fees needs to be a paid in a separate cheque payable to the Department of Homeland Security. The federal agency also laid the parameters for counting the number of employees of the company.

“We will count all of your full-time and part-time employees when determining whether you must pay this fee. Employees of related entities will not count,” USCIS said. “When calculating the percentage of your employees in H-1B or L-1 status, we will calculate based on the number of employees you have in the United States, regardless of whether they are paid through a US or foreign payroll,” USCIS said.

Austin South Asian | June 2016

THEME: FATHER’S DAY ACROSS 1. Bigwig in the Orient 6. I in T.G.I.F. 9. Brazilian indigenous people 13. In the past 14. Not bright 15. Like a clichéd remark 16. Sandbar 17. Oahu greeting gift 18. Acoustic output 19. *Christopher Robin’s father 21. *Little Mermaid’s royal father 23. Poor man’s caviar 24. Bell sound 25. Buffoon 28. Miami Heat’s Dwyane 30. *Prolific TLC father 35. Radar flash 37. Michelin product 39. Third rock from the sun 40. Republic of Ireland 41. Sizeable 43. Facts and figures 44. Sour in taste 46. Chicken of the sea? 47. Like fair share 48. Concerning this 50. Debilitating spray 52. Energy unit 53. Beast’s most precious possession 55. *John John’s dad didn’t wear it at his inauguration 57. *Overprotective father in “Meet the Parents” 60. *Scout and Jem’s jurisprudent father 64. Enter user name and password 65. A note to follow soh 67. Animal catcher 68. Flip-flop 69. Draft pick 70. Iron + nickel 71. Command: “At ____!” 72. Outer limit 73. African antelope

DOWN 1. Discovery group 2. Turkish honorific 3. Sonic sound 4. “Believe it or not, I’m walking ____ ____” 5. Loud cow noise 6. Not in action 7. *Wearable gift for dad 8. Inflict a blow 9. Tight like a bow string 10. Backward arrow command 11. Stepping stone to gain? 12. United Nations labor agency 15. Municipal officer in Scotland 20. Poetic “beneath” 22. ____ Koothrappali of “The Big Bang Theory” 24. Fragrant toiletry 25. African sorcery 26. *”You Are Old, Father William” from “____ in Wonderland” 27. One who fires firecrackers, e.g. 29. Soda choice 31. Like a full-fledged Mafia man 32. *King Fergus is Merida’s dad in this Pixar flick 33. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 34. Edible cannabis substance 36. *Alexandre Dumas to Alexandre Duma, fils 38. Largest volcano in Europe 42. Jet-setter’s aqua ride 45. Mind-numbing or wearisome 49. Hemingway’s “____ Whom the Bell Tolls” 51. As opposed to “eats out” 54. Type of renewable energy 56. Metallic sounding 57. Capital of Qatar 58. Between the id and super-ego, pl. 59. Not any 60. Attention grabber 61. Vena ____ 62. Eurasian mountain range 63. “Will be” in Doris Day song 64. Long Term Evolution 66. *Laila’s dad, Muhammad ____

SUDOKU

Sudoku

Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com. Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in June 2016 issue.

To Advertise In ASA Call 512-828-6709

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Math Scores Are Slipping: How Your Child Can Buck the Trend As STEM skills are gaining importance in the job market -- that is science, technology, engineering and math -- American students’ math test scores are slipping. A recent study shows a growing percentage of 12th grade students

performing below the basic level in math, and only a quarter of 12th graders tested at or above proficient achievement level, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress. As a parent, what can you do to

help your child improve grades and test scores in math? Select Course Work Wisely Talk to your children about what their future plans are for college, being sure to discuss career oppor-

tunities in STEM. Even if he or she is uncertain now, talking about the future can be motivational. Steering their career path early will help them remain focused and on

target for their larger goals.

as AP, SAT and SAT II well in advance of taking these tests, so that children understand the tools they need to support their test-taking abilities.

If math is one of your child’s more difficult subjects, suggest he or she start with math homework first and save favorite subjects for later in the evening.

You can motivate students and bolster academic performance by providing them with the technology they need to succeed.

New models, such as those from Casio, can help students explore math-related activities and exercises easily due to their broader range of functions and faster processing speeds.

Make sure students get plenty of sleep. Classroom material is best absorbed when students are alert.

“As students get older and enter advanced classes, they will need higher-functioning tools to solve difficult equations quickly, and explore more complex connections and applications,” says Dr. Karen Greenhaus, education technology expert at Casio America, Inc.

The PRIZM’s icon-based menu makes usability more intuitive than previous calculator models and USB connectivity helps students take their lessons from calculator to computer. More information can be found at www.CasioEducation. com.

“Be sure to provide your child with calculators that have menus and processes right on the screen, which will help reduce the amount of time it takes for them to work out the equation and get to more in-depth learning and conceptual understanding.”

Healthy Study Habits

If any questions arise, your child’s teachers can be a great resource for information and advice. Better Math Gear

Greenhaus notes that it’s also important to find calculators that are permitted on important tests, such

As a parent, you can help ensure your student maintains habits that foster better learning.When it comes to homework and studying, discourage procrastination. Regularly check in with your child’s progress and ask about upcoming tests.

While math scores nationwide are falling, the right tools and study habits can help your student buck the trend. (Statepoint)

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June 2016 Sudoku Answer Correct Answer: Mr. Yudhveer Bagga

Austin South Asian | June 2016

U.S. Lawmakers Push For Building Strong Defense Ties With India WASHINGTON — Apprehensive about the Chinese aggressive military buildup, top U.S. lawmakers cutting across party lines are pushing for building a strong defense relationship with India. The senators during a Congressional hearing endorsed a move by the Obama Administration to help modernize Indian military including the ambitious defense technology and trade initiative. “As the world’s two largest democracies, it is essentially that Washington and Delhi stand together to uphold democratic values, principles and norms in the Indo-Pacific, particularly as China seeks to gain greater influence in the region,” Senator Bob Corker, chairman of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said during the hearing. “The nature and scope of the U.S.India relationship has changed significantly over the past couple of decades, and the political, economic and strategic cooperation between the United States and India is at an all-time high,” he said. “There is considerable potential to further strengthen many aspects of

our relationship. For example, I’m encouraged by efforts to expand U.S.-India defense and security co-operations specifically in the maritime sphere,” Corker said. India and the U.S. have a lot in common, asserted Senator Ben Cardin, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “The South China Sea and China’s activities on maritime security dictate that the United States and India work at a closer defense cooperative arrangement to make sure that we maintain the commerce of the seas and the openness of the shipping lanes,” said Cardin. “We also need to deal with counter-terrorism. We still recall the tragic terrorist episode in Mumbai in 2008. Three of my constituents from Maryland were killed during that attack, and that’s still fresh in the minds of the people of India,” he said. “So I think strengthening our ties on counter-terrorism, working towards a further cooperation from South Asia, is an important part of the growing relationship between

our two countries,” said Cardin who, during the hearing, was quite vocal on expressing concern over human rights situation in India. Former Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio said he oftentimes heard the role of India’s future discussed as a sort of counterbalance to China. “I think it should be much more than that. Obviously there’s an element of that, but I think India in and of itself is a nation with incredible potential, and there’s incredible potential in our bilateral relationship,” he said. “So, my questions about military exchanges are not towards the desire to use viewing India as some sort of surrogate counterbalance to China in the region, but rather one that recognizes what I think is their potential, and ultimately their rightful role in South Asia and across the world,” Rubio said. Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia said he is heartened by the ongoing work that’s being done in the defense sector. Referring to his visit to India in October 2014 wherein he went to the Mazgaon Docks in Mumbai to see India’s ship building industry, he said he has encouraged the defense ministry to send a delegation here.

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“And I think that has happened, maybe last summer. And then, there’s ongoing work in these various defense spaces. (Defense) Secretary (Ash-

ton) Carter has been really good about it,” he said. “It’s good that as we think about that part of the world even we’re changing our vocabulary to reflect the fact that the relationship with India is of growing strategic importance. I believe that it is. And I just want to encourage that we continue in that way,” he said. AP adds: Earlier, U.S. lawmakers said May 24 they are encouraged by growing defense cooperation with India but remain concerned about religious intolerance and slavery in the South Asian nation ahead of a visit by its prime minister. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee examined ties between the world’s two largest democracies in advance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to Congress. There is strong support among U.S. lawmakers for deeper relations with India, but plenty of grumbles about limited progress in boosting trade and investment and New Delhi’s reluctance to accept U.S. scrutiny of its human rights record. Some in Congress also expressed unease about India’s ties with Iran after Modi just visited Tehran and India agreed to invest $500 million to develop a strategic port in Iran. Corker complained about high tariffs and red tape hindering U.S. access to the Indian market. He also expressed incredulity that about half of the estimated 27 million people in slavery in the world reside in India.

“How does a country like this have 12 to 14 million slaves in the year 2016. How does that happen?’’ Corker said. Assistant Secretary of State Nisha Biswal, the top U.S. diplomat for South Asia, said that bilateral relations have “never been stronger’’ but said both sides recognize “there is much more to be done.’’ On slavery, the Indian American official said there’s increasing awareness and commitment in India to address the matter, and the U.S. ambassador on combating human trafficking had been allowed to visit the country for the first time and had “useful and constructive discussions.’’ Biswal said some human trafficking rings have been broken up, but India needs to “advance the rule of law across all aspects of its society to insure that these kinds of conditions don’t exist, and this kind of trafficking does not exist.’’ Kaine raised India’s refusing visas in March to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, which issues an annual, global report. India’s position is that the commission, which provides policy advice to Congress and the U.S. executive, does not have the legal standing to pass judgment on conditions in the country. Modi is due to meet President Barack Obama at the White House on June 7, and then address a joint session of Congress the next day.

Salman Khan: I Was In Tears. I Felt Violated Superstar Salman Khan now knows how actresses feel when they have shoot in swimwear. “The most difficult part in this film has been the langot (loincloth). Today, I understand what heroines feel when they do the swimsuit shots.

violated. And I am not shy at all. I don’t feel ashamed to remove my shirt and wear shorts.” The trailer of Sultan, starring Salman Khan and Anushka Sharma and helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar, was launched at Filmcity, Mumbai, on May 24.

Austin South Asian | June 2016

AR Rahman Gifts 3 Additional Songs For Mani Ratnam

AR Rahman is known for his perfection and instantly doesn’t miss to come up with creative quotients anywhere as required, especially when it comes to his mentor and

Kanmani, which featured Dulquer Salmaan and Nithya Menen in lead roles. The film boasted of an urban tale

Although, the makers were happy with the same tunes composed by AR Rahman, the academy award winner came forward to offer 3 fresh tunes, which include ‘Aye Sinamika’, ‘Parandhu Sella Vaa’ and ‘Malargal Ketten’.

At the launch, Salman made it clear the film was not based on a real life character. “It isn’t a biopic. Not is it based on any real life incident. It is from Ali’s head. It is a story of an underdog.”

“When I was told I had to wear a langot, I thought I could do it. When I reached there (the venue of the shoot), I saw a crowd of 5,000 which included ladies. I was like, no way am I doing this. When I was walking out of the vanity van to the location, I was in tears. I felt

Ali added, “It is a fictional story. It is a Hindustani kahaani (Indian story), a story about relationships in which sports is the backdrop. The common thing between life and wresting is that, in both, people fall but you have to rise again. That’s what the film stands for.”

Priyanka Chopra As James Bond? Just imagine our “Desi Gal” getting into the shoes of the iconic international character.... Mind blowing?? Well, recently Priyanka Chopra expressed her wish to play James Bond some day, if given an opportunity. The Bollywood diva, who is flying high overseas for her Hollywood projects ‘Quantico’ and ‘Baywatch’, is proving to be an inspiration for her contemporaries. Recently, Pee Cee recently made headlines at the annual ABC Upfront show in New York, where she paid a tribute to late musician Prince.

Now Mani Ratnam’s close associate Shaad Ali is remaking the film in Hindi titled OK Jaanu, which is produced by Karan Johar in collaboration with Karan Johar. The film features Aditya Roy Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor in lead roles, which comes together after the evergreen romantic blockbuster hit ‘Aashiqui 2’.

close friend Mani Ratnam. The duo managed to sweep everyone off the feet with the breezy romantic drama titled O Kadhal

that came well packaged with beautiful visuals fro P.C. Sriram and musical score by AR Rahman was the major highlight.

Nazeerudin Shah will replace the role of Prakash Raj and Leela Samson would be seen reprising the same role again here. The film is getting ready for release on January 13, 2017 worldwide as officially announced by Karan Johar.

Why Kamal Haasan Said No To Rajinikanth’s Robot

Kamal Haasan was offered the villain’s role opposite Rajinikanth in the sequel to Robot but he refused to consider the offer. “There was no question of taking up the part. I wouldn’t have been part of this film under any circumstance and it’s got nothing to do with the role being a negative one. I have played negative roles many times before. Besides, a big star (Akshay Kumar) is playing the part now,” says Kamal Haasan. The reason why Kamal said no to Robot had nothing to do the film or the role. The Vishwaroopam actor explains, “Rajniji and I have a pact that, whenever we do another film together, it would have to be produced by either me or him. It’s the only way to ensure we do not displease our fans.”

Austin South Asian | June 2016

‘Housefull 3’ Gets 3500 Nayanthara To Produce A Woman-Centric Film If rumors Dhaan. Screens And More - Biggest are to be believed then While she is currently busy with Release In Bollywood! Nayanthara several Tamil and Telugu projects,

Makers of ‘Housefull 3’ are all set to come on a non holiday Friday to treat the audiences with the laugh riot that the franchise offers. Buzz is ‘Housefull 3’ will be re-

The film will be releasing immediately post the IPL fever is over which is 29th May. This would mark Akshay Kumar’s third consecutive release post the

will soon don the producer’s hat.

Nayanthara is planning to bankroll a Tamil woman-centric project that will see her in a powerful role.

2015 turned out to be a terrific year for the talented actress with three back-to-back hits -- Thani Oruvan, Maya and Naanum R o w d y

Reports hint that Nayanthara will play a collector in the film, which will be directed by Jagan, a former assistant to director A R Murugadoss. Other details about the film, which is expected to go on floors in a couple of months, are still under wraps.

People Speechless After Watching ‘Sarbjit’: Omung Kumar leasing in 3,500 plus screens only in India! This franchise which has been connected with the audience for years now is undoubtedly in high demand by the viewers. And so, the makers have left no stone unturned to make it one of the widest releases.

IPL matches in the past. It looks like this coincidence will yet again prove to be lucky in cashing on the revenues at the box office.

Sajid Nadiadwala Is Set To Make ‘Dishoom’ A Biggie

‘Baaghi’ has turned out to be a huge success and is now set to go past the 75 crore mark. With this,

As a result the distribution department is receiving high demands for the release of this franchise from across centers. Trade gurus have high expectations from the franchise. Said a noted trade analyst, “For a non holiday Friday, the film is expected to cash in on a figure between 15 to 16 cr on day one which is fantastic. It’s riding on immense buzz and is surely going to be an ideal summer holiday special for students who are right now in the midst of their school vacation. Add to all these things the fact it’s one of the biggest comedy franchises it’s going to be a winner at the ticket window!” Set to be one of the biggest franchise releases in the industry of Bollywood the film is all set to hit theaters on 3rd June!

“Sarbjit” director Omung Kumar says that the reactions they got for the film were exactly what they had anticipated, and the viewers are

producer Sajid Nadiadwala has opened his 2016 campaign with style and as always is playing on the front foot. While his next release ‘Housefull 3’ is all set to open huge as well on 3rd June, the game is also set for his third release of 2016, ‘Dishoom’, which is slated for July release. “What makes Dishoom special is the fact that Sajid is making a film with Varun Dhawan for the first time ever. The young star has been enjoying a cent percent record so far after a double hat-trick (since

the release of Student of the Year) and it would be interesting to see him in a Nadiadwala Grandson set up,” informs our source. Moreover, the film also sees the coming together of director Rohit Dhawan and John Abraham after Desi Boyz, which was produced by Eros. Now the production company along with Nadiadwala Grandson is making Dishoom which is set to be an out and out action entertainer in the offering. While Sajid and Eros would be keeping busy with ‘Housefull 3’ for the next few weeks, plans are already in place to give ‘Dishoom’ a cracker of a start. It is a given that the film’s theatrical promo would open on 3rd June once the Akshay Kumar-Riteish Deshmukh-Abhishe Bachchan’s ‘Housefull 3’ would hit the screens.

coming out of the theatre speechless. “The kind of reactions we are receiving is just as we expected. People are speechless coming out from the theatre. This seems that we have done the right kind of work and the

film strikes a chord,” he said at a screening of the film. “Good films never fail to impress the audience. People come to the theatre to be entertained but somehow I feel films like ‘Sarbjit’ affects the audience.” “Sarbjit” is based on the real-life story of Sarabjit Singh, an Indian farmer who languishes in a Pakistani jail for 23 years, while his sister Dalbir Kaur fights relentlessly for her brother’s justice. Randeep Hooda plays the titular role while Aishwarya Rai Bachchan played his sister and Richa Chadha as Sarbjit’s wife. About the best compliment he received, Omung Kumar said: “The best compliment

the film has received so far was someone who told me that Sarabjit becomes immortal after this film.” Omung Kumar, who had made his debut with the biopic on boxer Mary Kom starring Priyanka Chopra, has continued the trend by making another biopic. But he said: “It is not that I have taken the responsibility to make only biopics, but my target is to bring out the forgotten real-life stories for the audience. Thus, ‘Mary Kom’ or ‘Sarbjit’ came to my way. However, I am not sure about my forthcoming projects. May be, I would switch over to some different genre in the future. “Every filmmaker has his own choice. A film must entertain people. Light-hearted films are also a part of entertainment and because of these films, people love to watch serious movies. I might do comedy films someday but that will be a good comedy, not a double meaning slapstick.” Omung Kumar has already announced that his third film will be a psychological thriller.

Austin South Asian | June 2016

Movie On Mohammed Azharuddin

You took over a year to say yes to a film based on your life. And now that the trailer has already released, what do you think of it?

fixing case) were really difficult but I stood strong through the case. If I had lost (the case), it would have been a very different story.

You never think about your life being replicated on screen. So naturally it’s a different feeling. But I think Emraan bhai has done really well. He has worked very hard, trained and read a lot of paper clippings and is extremely professional.

The film would have been made in a very different way. I don’t look at life negatively. I believe good things happen to positive people. Staying positive is my strength and

There are chances that negative talk about you will resume. Does it scare you? I am pretty used to it. Nobody can stop them from saying whatever they have to. I don’t worry about what people say about me as long as people who love me and my fans, who care for me, are happy. After all that happened, do you wish to associate yourself with the Indian cricket team by being a part of the management or becoming a coach?

I like his approach towards work. He even hurt himself while training for the cricket portions and you have to make those sacrifices when you know you have to deliver. From whatever I have seen so far, it looks good. Once the film releases, people will revisit the controversies of your life. Won’t it make you uncomfortable? Azhar: People are bound to talk, but I don’t blame them. I think tough people survive difficult times. If you don’t have patience during those times, you will not survive. That is the law of nature. The first two years (after the match

don’t support you.

I am thankful to Allah for giving me that strength and patience. Even though the judiciary has given you a clean chit and withdrawn the ban, there might be people who

I will be happy if I am given an opportunity. I am willing to give back whatever cricket I have played. A number of players have come to me for advice but I choose to not talk about it for publicity. I am not that kind of a person. As a cricketer you must help people who are struggling and give them proper advice. When you heard that Emraan will be playing you in the film, what was your reaction?

I thought he was the best person to do the job. I’ve seen his films. The first thing that appeals to me about an actor or a player is his or her professionalism. I think Emraan has been very professional, and has worked very hard on the film. He left no stone unturned. I’m sure people will like it. It’s not easy to copy someone. It’s a different film involving events that occurred in somebody’s life. I think people will get inspired by this.

there’s so much competition nowadays. When you watch a film on the big screen, you don’t realise the hard work and sacrifice that goes into making it. When you’re shooting, it takes ages sometimes to move from one shot to another. It’s a testing time for actors. You have to get into a different mould, learn so much, and still keep your mind straight. It’s a very tough job.

Were you sceptical about sharing details of your life for a film?

Why did you choose to use a film as a medium to tell your story and not, maybe, write a book instead?

I don’t fear anything. If I did, this film wouldn’t have been made. When you want to do something, you have to do it whole-heartedly. I think they’ve done a good job of portraying whatever has happened in my life. It’s a positive film, and people shouldn’t see it in a negative way.

It is purely because of the reach. So many people watch films. If I had written a book, only some [people] would have read it. Cinema is a large medium. Once they (audiences) see it, they will see the problems I had to face, the tough times, and how I came out of it all. I feel it is also an inspiring film.

Azharuddin, now that you have so closely been involved with the process of film-making, what’s your take on acting as a profession?

How I reacted at that time, what my attitude was, how I behaved, how other people said things against me, and how I reacted to them… if everybody has to know all that, then cinema as a medium is the biggest.

It’s not an easy profession at all. They have to fight it out, and

Indian American Student Kaavya Valiveti Named Top Graduating Senior of U.C. Berkeley (Continued From Page 02)

“Gender bias is big in STEM,”

she said in the report. “One problem is keeping young women in STEM once they express interest. Not enough is done to cultivate an atmosphere where they can freely share their thoughts. That’s one area where I hope to become a role model,” she added. Valiveti, born in Ottawa, Canada, in 1995, is the daughter of Radhakrishna, an electrical engineer and Natana, a financial planner, musician and artist, both from south India. Her family moved to Texas when she was 3. While in a Dallas suburb, she kept to herself, spending most her time playing the cello or reading books. It wasn’t until her father accepted a job at a Sunnyvale-based fiber optics company

and they moved to Fremont when she was 12 that she felt comfortable with the more ethnically diverse environment. After attending Mission San Jose High School in Fremont, where she experienced bouts of depression as she was learning more about herself, the release noted, she gained admission to U.C. Berkeley, the same school her brother Kashyap had graduated from with an engineering degree. It wasn’t until she attended an honors linear algebra class taught by Professor Jenny Harrison that she got hooked on math. Following that class, she went on to study abstract algebra, classical geometries, combinatorics and topology.

She has gone on to co-author a research paper during a summer research program at Kent State University and received an honorable mention for the Alice T. Schafer Prize, awarded by the Association for Women in Mathematics to the most outstanding U.S. female math undergraduate. Outside of math classes, she played at classical Indian music concerts and volunteered with the Bay Area Hispano Institute for Advancement, as well as raised money for an underfunded rural elementary school in Trichy, India. “Increasing access to education for underprivileged children, and improving it, is just as important to me as my work in mathematics,” Valiveti said.

Austin South Asian | June 2016