Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 8 No. 05
Nepal Earthquake
Kathmandu, Nepal (CNN)More than 4,600 people dead. Over
9,000 injured. Eight million affected across Nepal. One million children urgently in need of help.
Surgeon General
WASHINGTON: At about the same time the death of a farmer in New Delhi brought the capital’s attention on farm suicides, a
Those are the startling numbers that indicate the scale of the dev-
astation from the huge earthquake that struck the Himalayan nation. (Continued On Page 21)
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FOR NEPAL EARTHQUAKE RELIFE
Hindu Temple In Texas
NEW YORK (IANS) — In the latest attack on Hindu houses of
Hindus who have offered to help the temple clean up the damage,
worship in the U.S., a temple has been vandalized in Texas, “horrifying” both Hindus and non-
media reported. (Continued On Page 21)
By Swapnil Dighe The Hindu Charities for America and the Jewish Federation of Greater Austin are coming togeth-
– all for a noble cause. Welcome your host for the evening; World’s Only Indian Jewish standup comedian Samson Kolet-
Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt 2015!
www.REDCROSS .org
young Indian-American was invoking with gratitude the Indian roots of his success in the United States: his agriculturist grandfather’s resilience and sacrifice that led his parents emigration and his own remarkable achievement in this country. (Continued... P 20)
Go to web link below https://www.redcross.org/ combined-donate?donatio nProdId=prod9150029&re trieveData=1&flow=oc1
er for the 3rd year in succession for a multi-cultural evening filled with fun, food and entertainment
kar (aka Mahatma Moses) (Continued On Page 08)
inside
May 2015
Travel Budget Friendly.04 Raag Of Ages.............05 Meet Ultra Runner.......07 Bollywood Meets.........08 National Poetry Month.08 Visit To Organic Farm..10 Family Dinner..............10 5 ponters to buy a car.11 A Look Through..........11 Ex TCS Worker............11 Canada Returns..........12 Farmer’s Suicides........14
June 2015
Travel Special
512-828-6709 Healthy Snacks...........15 Musical Ramanavami...17 Make A Difference.......18 Austin Non Profits.......18 Predictions.................19 Vivek Murthy Youngest Surgeon General.........20 Hindu Temple In Texas Vandalized..................21 Nepal Earthquake.......21 Children’s Page...........22 Entertainment.............25
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
Budget-Friendly Summer Travel Tips
Americans collectively neglect 430 million vacation days annually, according to the 2014 Oxford Economics analysis. Whatever your reasons for sacrificing vacation, don’t let it be finances. “An enjoyable vacation is possible on even the smallest budget -- and summer is the perfect time to travel,” says Tom Seddon, Chief Marketing Officer of Extended Stay America. Seddon encourages families to save big on travel with these helpful tips. Timing People traveling during holidays and long weekends often experience higher gas prices, bigger crowds and longer lines. Seddon suggests dodging departures and arrivals during peak travel times to avoid congested roads and stop-and-go traffic. Save on airfare by leveraging a family member’s business trip. Simply add days to the beginning or end of the trip. Whether visiting relatives, touring colleges as
Austin South Asian Editor: Bala Kumar Marketing: Jayachitra Vijay -512-8286709 / info@austinsouthasian.com Production: Jyothi Mariswaran Admin: Sharada Dayanidhi Publisher: Vidya Kumar Distribution: 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.
512-828-6709 info@austinsouthasian.com www.austinsouthasian.com
a high school senior or visiting a sibling already enrolled, adding extra time to the trip makes for a budget-friendly family getaway. Stay-cation Remember, expensive doesn’t mean more fun. For a budget-savvy version of vacation, look for shorter trip destinations two to three hours from home. Consider nearby attractions that make for an inexpensive weekend or day trip, like theme parks, zoos or state parks. Select a hotel that provides a good value for what you need. Unlike a resort hotel where the experience is the hotel, use the hotel as a place to refresh, sleep and prepare snacks, so that you can spend more time experiencing all the local attractions. Complete errands beforehand and create a full itinerary to ensure you don’t fall into your normal routine. Also, unplug -- reducing time on tech means more refreshing time off. Use your time to visit local hotspots you’ve also wanted to experience. Summer is usually the best time for state and county fairs and local newspapers and regional websites are great resources for finding offbeat events. Loyalty Rewards Programs Many point-based loyalty programs require a significant amount of time and investment before you see any benefit. Enroll in loyalty programs that offer in-
stant rewards, coupons, and discounts at national retailers, rental car companies, restaurants, theme parks and more. Programs like this will provide valuable savings to enhance summer travel.
Still craving a specific restaurant? Lunch menus are usually less expensive than dinner, and you’re more likely to catch happy hour drink and appetizer specials.
Meal Costs
Hotel accommodations can be pricey in big cities. Stay across the river or in suburbs a short drive or subway trip away. The same concept can be extended to flights. Flying into a smaller airport or neighboring cities sometime yields lower rates.
Consider offsetting costs by pre-making snacks and picnic lunches. Staying at an extendedstay style hotel can be helpful, as guests have access to in-room kitchens and full size refrigerators. Don’t worry about forgoing local fare. This is an opportunity to visit the area’s farmer’s markets where you can shop for local ingredients and recreate a regional dish on your own.
Stay Across the River
For more budget travel tips and ideas, visit www.extendedstayamerica.com. This summer, don’t forgo vacation. Savvy decisions can make for wallet-friendly travel. (State Point).
Poems By Arun
JUST GUESTS On this planet most magnificent We are just guests Brought in to live in And not on our own. Be grateful to the Host, for the munificent Maintain this for the next generation, Clean, beautiful and green With no business to ruin! To think as your own all natures gift Not wrong at all But co-exist and exit once and for all On getting the final call! Everything is his concept Nothing is ours. On this planet marvellous We are just guests!
A FATHER’S ADVICE While you are keeping the first infant step in your career The following words do always remember. Be grateful to those who teach you, however trivial it may appear. Irrespective of their designations, respect
seniors and elders. Smart work rather than hard work and sincerity ensures better future Grab the opportunities available, honestly, to climb up the ladder. Health, take care with good diet and make it a point to walk a lot. Keep away from bad company and bad habits never cultivate. Smile, it costs nothing, but value of the same is great For the receiver, the other end at. Save, for of the future comforts, but not at the cost of Sacrificing the necessities of the present. Borrow, only when you must and if you can make provision to meet The commitments on time to repay it. Lend, when you have to, only if you are confident of getting the same back With some consideration, even if it is the least. Learn to strike a balance between work and family life to enjoy together. Though you achieve the very best in your endeavour, be humble forever.
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Pakistani Community Holds Dinner In Honor Of Ambassador Of Pakistan
Austin South Asian | May 2015
Shaikh Omar Suleiman Of Bayyinah Institute Talks About Angel Gabriel
By Sumaiya Malik
dollar investment China made in Pakistan.
By Sumaiya Malik
On March 31, the Pakistani community hosted an elaborate dinner in honor of the visiting Pakistani Ambassador Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani at Hotel Crowne Plaza.
He also said the government has been successfully fighting terrorism within the country.
Shaikh Omar Suleiman of Bayyinah Institute of Irving, TX, was in Austin on April 19 to deliver a three hours long talk about
The dinner was sponsored by the business community including Mr. Iqbal Shaikh, Mr. Sharif Prasla of GAMA, Mr. Tariq Majeed and Pakistan American Cultural Association Greater Austin. In his address to the people Mr. Jilani said that he in the US to serve the Pakistani American community. The embassy provides visa and other important documents to Pakistanis and the embassy leverages its position in DC to soften the image of Pakistan. The people of Pakistan in the next 2 years will see the impact of new investment. He informed the people of the 43 billion
At the dinner attended by about two hundred fifty people, the Ambassador felt comfortable and enjoyed chatting face to face with the hosts and guests.
the importance of Angel Gabriel to Muslims. An audience of four hundred people belonging to all walks of life in Austin attended the. Omer Suleiman,is the head of History Department at Bayyinah Institute. Bayyinah’s mission is to enrich individuals, families and institutions by making Arabic and Qur’anic studies accessible to the world.
Farhan Siddiqui of PACAGA said that the people benefitted individually as well as Mr. Jillani helped some figure out how to file documents.
They believe education should be easy to understand.
Mr. Jilani also talked about what is happening in Dc regarding normalizing relations within the country. The Consular General Houston Mr. Afzaal Mahmood also addressed the people.
Their instructors travel the United States and sometimes also internationally to offer seminars that are highly engaging, enjoyable and fun for the whole family. They make it their mission to keep a light, easy-going atmosphere in their programs. Adults, kids and non-Muslims are all welcome to attend any one of our traveling seminars.
He mentioned a visa camp that came to Austin a year back and encouraged the people to use the consulate to solve docment related issues.
Raag Of Ages Charlie Wilson Chair At UT Invites The Ambassador Of Pakistan To Austin
By Sumaiya Malik
Raag of Ages, Pakistani rock band performed live in concert at the Marchesa Hall on April 4, 2015. This was to date their best performance. All six band members
remained mostly on stage and sang twentythree Pakistani rock and Bollywood songs to a packed audience. They started bang on time with their opening number Kinna Sohna tainu Rub nay bunaya by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
It took the audience only a couple of songs to start humming to their beat. All dressed in cool ‘star’ clothing, they were on the roll. The pressure was high before the concert with some anxious about what to expect. Not Imran Baqai.
T h i s founding member seemed relaxed and happy and said, “I am all a b o u t the bass guitar. Raag of Ages will roar!” And they sure did. By the fifth song, Pakistani flag was flying high with some people dancing in the isles. An energized fan, Kaashif, came on the stage when the lead singer Dr.Fida Khan sang Amitabh’s ‘Keh pagh ghungro bandh Meera nachi thee.” (Continued On Page 07)
By Sumaiya Malik Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, spoke at UT/Austin on the evening of March 31st, 2015. Hosted by Paula Newberg, the Charlie Wilson Chair in Pakistan Studies (and co-sponsored by the South Asia Institute), Ambassador Jilani discussed Pakistan’s diplomatic agenda in the United States and globally. Ambassador Jilani was formerly Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary, Ambassador to the European Union, and High Commissioner to Australia, and has held many other senior leadership positions in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The talk began at 6pm at UT and was open to the public. The audience included students and faculty of UT and members of the South Asian community. Ambassador Jilani was accompanied by the Consular General of Houston Consulate, Mr. Afzaal Mahmood and Geo News representative. Mr. Jilani talked about the important role Pakistan Embassy plays in keeping channels of communication open between governments of their region and the US. He emphasized that Pakistan is going through a more stable phase and it is the right time for investment. He talked about trade relations between the US and Pakistan. He also talked about how the embassy facilitates visa, origin cards, id cards, and birth and death certificates. The ambassador presented books on Pakistan to Professor Paula Newberg, the Charlie Wilson Chair at UT. Kamran Ali of South Asia Institute thanked all the guests for coming. This function was followed by a dinner hosted by the American Pakistani community.
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
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MANAGER FINANCIAL SERVICES: YOUR NEXT BIG CHALLENGE. Your next big career challenge is here at Prudential as a Manager Financial Services (MFS). It’s an exciting role in which you’ll recruit, lead and shape a team of ethical, confident sales professionals with the goal of helping customers grow and protect their assets. This opportunity requires Series 6, Series 26, Life, Health and P&C registrations (or ability to obtain such), along with excellent time management/organizational skills and an understanding of industry compliance. You’ll also the initiative to coach and develop a topperforming team. In return, you’ll enjoy: • Competitive Compensation • Bonuses • Recognition Programs • Exceptional Benefits • Excellent Growth Potential & More We are an organization with tremendous momentum. Challenge yourself to find out why. For consideration, please respond to: Ramesh Raj, Managing Director 832-389-5165 ramesh.raj@prudential.com
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
Raag Of Ages ‘RAAWKK Meet Ultra Runner Sandeep Shah AND ROAALLL’ Desi Style!
(Continued From Page 05) ROA performed their own compositions as well called Raat and Tu Tu Ru Ru. Uzair Farooqui on keyboard and Kashif Rehman on Tabla had a heavy influence in these numbers. Fida said, “…song arrangement is done by Rizwan and we as a group pitch in.” Everyone in the band trusts Rizwan Khan’s input. Rizwan Khan, the band leader, plays the guitar and has been a part of professional bands previously. He hopes to release an album in future although ROA is, “not a professional band.” The song lineup was strong with flawless redemption of Gulabi ankhein jo teri dekhaein, Junoon’s pehchaan, Qarar, and many more. The lights also danced. Sound and lights engineer, Sam, did an exceptional job at bringing focus to the right instruments. That was clearly visible when Dr. Junaid Siddiqui, on percussion used Neon fire sticks on songs like Mitwa. First red and then blue movement was created when Junaid’s hands effortlessly moved from one drum to the next. He even played the Djembe in Galiyaan teri Galiyaan! All eyes were on Dr. Fida Khan. While Junaid keeps the beat alive, it is Fida who manages to steal the audience’s affection. Fida’s warm smile and ‘apnapun’ floors the listeners. Fida says, ‘I derive energy from the songs. I love to interact with the audience to remind them that I am there for them. It’s my way of expressing my gratitude.’ While most artists focus on front and middle audience, Fida would get down from the stage regularly and shake hands with people even at the back while singing. The highlight of the evening was the tribute
to late Pakistani pop singer, Nazia Hasan, who would have turned fifty this year. Athar Sattar, the MC highlighted that Nazia single-handedly brought Pakistan and India together when she sang Boom Boom.
Interviewed
by
Mamata
Misra
Mamata: Sandeep, you have decided to run the 100-mile Tahoe Rim Trail race in July 2015. When did you start running longdistances? What does it take to prepare for such a feat?
Then ROA sang the same song! Hearts were welling with emotion as Indians and Pakistanis hummed the same tune while the fire sticks flew on the stage.
M: One reason you are running this race is to help impoverished youth in India to get an education and end the cycle of poverty. What led to that decision?
Fida’s wife, Uzma spoke on behalf of the group when she said they were all solidly behind ROA and their endeavors. And really, it is all about working together. The final song was Teray ishq may jo bhee doob gaya by Allan Fakir.
Imran Baqai is busy editing the raw video and dubbing professionally recorded sound on it to put together videos of the concert. We wish they success and more concerts.
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M: What are the most attractive and most challenging aspects of ultra running for you? S: When I am on the trails, my mind is clear, troubles melt into the rocks and roots, and the sense of possibility can be overwhelming. The biggest challenge is balancing the running with family and work.
Acoustics were phenomenal! Maheen Baqai selected Marchesa Hall for the concert.
Standing ovation and two encores! Their work is far from done.
to run the hundred miles? S: The cutoff is 35 hours, so I definitely have to finish before then!
Sandeep: My first attempt at an Ultra distance was a 50-mile race in California in 2011. I was horribly naïve about what it takes in terms of nutrition, pacing, and training for this endeavor and wound up dropping out at 40 miles. However, I loved the experience, and the memories of soft padding against the trails, wide open spaces of mountains and trees, and the freedom that can only be reaped from a full embrace of nature stayed with me. After finishing the 2012 Florida Ironman, I decided to go for another Ultra. I set my sights on the epic Leadville Trail 100 race in 2013 and I finished that race. Preparation is rigorous and requires almost a monastic discipline, in terms of quantity of training, quality of training, recovery, and nutrition. I slowly increase my mileage and punctuate the training with multiple shorter races. By the time I hit June this year, I will be averaging 80-100 miles per week, with a mix of tempo runs (setting a fast pace and holding it for 10-20 miles), hill repeats (lots of hills in Austin to choose from!), steady state road runs, and long trail runs (25-40 miles). I try to follow a grain-free diet as much as possible. I will eat a lot of protein, good fats, and non-grain carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes. M: How long do you think it will take you
S: My father, Anil Shah, was the president of Pratham USA near the time of its inception. Through him, I came to know and value the impact of the work of this organization. I have been racing for a while, and it dawned on me that I could use my passion for running as a means to improve the lives of these children. M: What do you do when you are not running? S: I am a full time radiologist and also actively invest in multifamily real estate. My other hobbies include writing, reading, traveling, and hiking with my wife Maneesha and our twin 10-year-old daughters, Sofie and Ria. M: Anything else you would like to add, Dr. Sandeep Shah? S: It’s a privilege to be granted this opportunity to raise money for Pratham via doing something I love so much. I look forward to training hard, racing to the maximum of my ability, and raising money for this organization that has helped so many children by giving them the tools for progress. M: Sandeep, thank you so much for sharing your story. I wish you a grand success in the race in July. Readers who wish to support Dr. Sandeep Shah may do so on his fundraiser page https://www.crowdrise. com/UltraMarathonForPratham. Readers interested in more information about Pratham’s work will find it at www. prathamusa.org.
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Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt 2015!
(Continued From Page 01) and some delightful performances from the likes of Rahul Nair (Tabla), Natyalaya School of Dance (Bharat Natyam), Yesh Rikhudh (Israeli Folk Dance), Monsoon Dance (Rajasthani Folk
Dance, Dances of the Gods n more), Stand-up Comedies (Samson Koletkar), Steve Adler (former drummer and co-songwriter - Guns N’ Roses), Naga Valli and a Mazel Tov cocktail hour. The Grand Finale for the evening will be a perfect fusion of Bollywood and Israeli music involving kids and performers from Monsoon Dance and Yesh Rikhudh. Complementing the evening will be a wide array of Indian vegetarian culinary delights and Jewish desserts that will enlighten your taste buds. Education being the cornerstone of successes in our communities, it is time again to give-back, to those in need and to those with a dream of education. In Mahatma Gandhi’s words: “Be The Change That You Want To See In The World” Invest in a better community for your children. Please donate generously! All proceeds from the event will go towards procuring Back-to-
School supplies for homeless children in the Austin metro area. So, help us fill the hundreds of back-packs and hope to see you all at the mega event. Tickets are nominally priced:
Kids 6-12 yr. $10, Seniors over 65yr $15 and Adult $25 that includes dinner sponsored by local Indian restaurants. Sponsorships are available: $150 (includes 2 reserved tickets, name in program listing, email marketing, Website presence and Face Book marketing), $500 for reserved table for 10 – invite your friends, family, colleagues, customers! (Includes above marketing, if preferred). The event will be on Sunday May 31st from 4pm to 7pm at the Dell Jewish Community Hall - 7300 Hart Lane, Austin 78731. For more information, visit ShalomAustin.com, Sulekha.com or HinduCharitiesForAmerica.org
To Advertise In ASA Call
512-828-6709
Austin South Asian | May 2015
Roses Are Red, Violets Are Blue…It’s National Poetry Month! By Best In Class Happy National Poetry Month! Introduced in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets, the celebratory month was initiated as a way to increase awareness and appreciation of poetry in the United States. Poetry is a rich tool for the creative mind, especially in
the classroom. A well-rounded English curriculum should include poetry as it encourages students to use language to express thoughts, feelings, new ideas, and unique perspectives. Students who study poetry tend to have a better understanding of their surroundings. By bringing poetry into our classrooms, we’re able to teach children a lot more about the world they live in. Creativity Poetry instills a sense of freedom in the mind of a child to explore daily life, wants, and wishes. Encouraging children to write freely about less tangible concepts creates an opportunity for children to express themselves. Whether the poem has structure or no rules at all, poetry writing can tap into a student’s artistic mind. Community Sharing poetry in the classroom emphasizes speaking and listening skills – both vital in a wellrounded education. It can also allow students to practice using metaphors, imagery, and symbolic language to paint a picture
about parts of themselves they may not feel comfortable sharing directly. Poetry allows students to find their voice. Language The study of poetry enables students to read, write, and understand text. By reading and studying poetry, students are able to expand t h e i r existing oral and writing capabilities. T h e y c a n string together words to create meaning and images in a more flexible environment. Analysis Poetry uses numerous techniques and there are many ways to write a poem. The art of writing and reading poetry guides students to think critically about the words on the page in a more cognitive manner, thus developing their interpretive skills. Emotional Learning Schools are designed to teach students lessons they take with them as they grow. Emotional learning is no exception. Adding poetry to a student’s education can help them see the world in a new way while also helping them tap into other methods of learning. Celebrate this month with your child and encourage them to put pencil to paper. The best part? It doesn’t even have to rhyme. For more information about Best in Class services for your student, or about current franchising opportunities, visit www.bestinclasseducation.com.
MOTHERS DAYS IDEAS Sring is here and with it comes a great day to celebrate moms. If you’re watching your wallet, you may be in need of some great ideas for celebrating Mother’s Day. As it turns out, some of the most thoughtful gift and activity ideas are the most economical and easy to plan. To help you plan your Mother’s Day celebration, the discount experts at Dollar General are offering some great ideas. Breakfast in Bed Pamper mom with breakfast in bed, complete with delicious pancakes, a good book or magazine and hot coffee. She’ll love the opportunity to relax and enjoy her morning without the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Grow Something Together Sometimes the best gift is an afternoon spent together. Pick out a planter Mom will love, along with seeds, soil and gardening tools. Spend the afternoon creating something that will grow all season long and remind Mom of her time spent with you. Bake and Make Mom might love her kitchen just the way it is, but you can add a splash of color and flair with some inexpensive additions from a discount retailer, such as Dollar General. Update Mom’s kitchen with new accessories, like a kitchen towel or oven mitt, or even a new appliance like a coffee maker or mixer. Complete your kitchen additions with a baking mix for cookies or brownies, and spend time with Mom creating something yummy together. Tell the Birds Does your mom love the outdoors? Pick out a unique birdhouse and bird seed for her, so she can enjoy the natural sounds of the season. You could even turn it into an art and crafts project and make a birdhouse together. This Mother’s Day, show Mom how much you care, while making memories you can cherish for years to come.
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
My Visit To Organic Farm In India
By Venkappa Gani During my visit to Karnataka, India this month I was reading local news paper “ Vijaya Karnataka”.The article on Organic Farming caught my attention. Farm happened to be near Mysore in K.R. Nagar a small village called “ChikkaVaddargudi”. I was staying in Dharwad leaving to USA from Bengaluru within few days. My interest in learning about Organic farming made me to contact the farmer to visit before my departure. I contacted farmer Manjunath by phone. He was pleasant to talk and willing to show his farm. I Changed my travel plans to visit this farm. It was one day trip from Bengaluru. It was hard to convince my family and relatives to accompany with me to make day trip. I had only one day left before my planned departure to USA. Weather turned
to be favourable. We made travel arrangements by Taxi leaving early morning and return same day by evening.
lies, Roses, Marigold and papaya plants at borders. Manjunath arrived by bike and welcomed us at the border of the farm where we had all gathered. He explained how he started the organic farming.Soil preparation: Uses traditional method of compost with cow dung mixed with organic material spreads on the soil. He also uses liquid cow dung to feed plants. This is basic nutrients for plants. Soil is red sandy type. Plants are placed in rows, watered by drip systems. He has two bore wells for water source. Uses companion planting by alternate rows ie roses next to peppers or marigolds which are insect repellants. No chemical fertilizers or insecticides being used. He removes the sick plant to find root cause. He takes corrective action to save other plants. He plants papaya plants on borders without drip water. The Man-
junath’s family work full time and get help from their kids and hires extra labourers as needed. We saw chilly harvesting during our visit to get ready for market shown in pictures. Farm was full of green with eggplants finished with production and ready for new planting. Small beautiful red roses are very attractive for butterflies bees and other pollinators.
overcome family dinnertime hurdles. Here she shares a few parenting insights:
stories that might amuse your children, such as something mischievous the dog did. Starting by telling as story yourself can get the conversation rolling. Ask questions that demonstrate you’ve been paying attention. For example, “I know that today was your first art class. What was it like?”
Meaningful Conversation A family meal is an excellent opportunity to connect with your children. Foster dinner conversation by making the family table a technology-free zone. You may find that parents have a harder time than kids turning off their gadgets. Throughout your day, collect
To deepen conversation, turn to daily media content. For example, elections can prompt discussions about how democracy works. Scandals can provide fodder for talk about truth-telling.
children and adults must eat different foods might be a myth created by food manufacturers and marketers. Your child might like chicken piccata as much as chicken fingers. Entice picky eaters by modeling adventurous eating. Eat the new food with gusto, and then ask, “Would you like to taste it? Can you describe the taste?” This focuses your child’s attention on the food, rather than on rejecting it. Avoid letting food become a power struggle. If your child refuses a particular meal, stay calm and offer an alternative such as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich -- nothing that makes much extra work for you.
We were all eager to visit farm first and see Mysore, Chamudeshwari temple and do some shopping on the We took fast short route to Mysore through highway NICE. Reached K.R. Nagar before noon with brief stop over for breakfast on the way. Finally reached ChikkaVaddargudi a small village. Villagers guided us to find Manjunath’s farm.Once we reached the farm it looked like an Oasis, a garden spot with green plants midst bare land surrounding. Farmer’s wife was working with few people harvesting chillies welcomed us with big smile. Manjunath was busy in directing delivery of compost to the farm from his house nearby. We walked around the Organic farm viewing eggplants, Chil-
The golden color marigolds were spread all over in the middle of other crops. Flowers being sold for making garlands. Papaya plants were loaded with fruits dark round and long green. Papayas start producing fruits within six months after planting and keep on producing year around. He replants papayas every two years. He sells produces to merchants in K.R. Nagar and Mysore. He earns enough by organic pro-
duce which is high demand. Farm is only 2 1/2 acres on flat ground on a small hill. He impressed us with simple living and working judiciously getting plenty of different types of produce on seasonal basis. It really shows how one can start small organic farm to make better living. This is one lesson everyone should learn to not to use chemical fertilizers and pesticides to save clean water and soil for natural ecosystem. He gave us plenty of Papayas, Eggplants, and chillies samples for tasting. I am thankful to his family for allowing us to visit the farm spending time with us during busy schedule. We all felt happy coming to see the farm and enjoyed the It makes you believe that one can create a paradise in the middle of desert land.
Meaningful Family Dinner
Do you have dinner with your kids? It’s become almost a luxury today, with our crammed schedules. And yet, numerous studies show that no other hour in your children’s day will deliver as many emotional and psychological benefits as the one spent unwinding and connecting over food and conversation. “A nightly commitment to family dinners can be transformative,” says Anne K. Fishel, Ph.D., therapist, cofounder of Family Dinner Project, and author of “Home for Dinner, Mixing Food, Fun, and Conversation for a Happier Family and Healthier Kids,” (AMACOM). Amongst finicky eaters, defiant teens and the lure of fast food, how can home cooking and family dinner be your household’s priority? In her new book, Fishel shares strategies for busy parents to
Trying New Things Don’t underestimate your child’s taste buds. The idea that young
Have Fun Ask kids to help with meal preparation. Spinning salad greens and setting the timer are some of the many things young children can
do. For older kids, do a role reversal one night a week and have them do the cooking. It can be fun to re-create meals kids have seen advertised on TV or eaten in restaurants. For example, most supermarkets offer ready-made pizza dough. Combined with tomato sauce from a jar, it’s simple to make pizza at home. Let teens choose music to listen to during dinner. On other nights, play music you listened to as a teenager. For more dinnertime insights, and information about the book, visit www.amacombooks.org/HomeForDinner.htm. Family dinner offers more than just nutrition. Food may bring everyone to the table, but it is the fun and conversation that will keep them there. (State Point)
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
A Look Through The Lens Of Katiyabaaz
By Sonam Rehani
Thought provoking, honest and realistic are the attributes of the films selected by Indie Meme. Kudos to it for presenting such films that sharpen and enhance our regular movie watching taste.
to a compelling documentary, Katiyabaaz, presented by Indie Meme. The dropping temperatures her-
sue, the director duo of Deepti Kakkar and Fahad Mustafa built up a great drama with real life characters playing themselves.
According to one of Indie Meme’s supporters & audience member of Katiyabaaz, Sumit DasGupta, the film was “an excellent example of the fact that human beings will resort to any and all creative approaches, legal or illegal, to meet its basic needs…” .
Not just the movies but Indie Meme often dishes up something extra for their audience be it a special pre-screening evening with the director, or an intimate Q and A via skype.
It does seem that all sense of moral qualm is lost in the battle for gaining a few hours of “Bijlee”! The movie was followed by an introduction to the director in attendance, Fahad Mustafa.
This little film society in Austin is doing a tremendous job bringing some rare gems for screening. It has opened up a plethora of choices for the average movie loving adult. A magnitude of unknown directors, movie makers have suddenly been thrown in the limelight and have a chance to showcase their talent which is being enjoyed by the masses. The Marchesa theatre in Austin, in March, was once again host
the morning. The savior of the people is Loha Singh, a Robin Hood like character who brings power to the people by hooking up transmission lines.
alding an icy night in Austin did not deter the fans from showing up at a thought-provoking feature highlighting the power crisis in Kanpur, a metro of three million people. Taking up a realistic burning is-
With mercury rising and eleven to sixteen hours of power outages, a sense of right and wrong dissipates.
A volley of questions raised by the audience had the director take them behind the scenes to demystify the filming, the hurdles to cross and how it played out with no written script.
Illegal connections are made at night and magically disappear in
A fascinating yet thoroughly illuminating dialogue amongst the
attendees. A toast to the exciting times ahead for the movie lovers in Austin! Next up is the powerful, disturbing & haunting film, dealing with the issue of child trafficking in India, “Lakshmi” May 14th 7pm at the Southwest Theaters Lakecreek. Filmmaker Nagesh Kukunoor is in attendance at the screening and there will be a discussion post screening. Indie Meme is also organizing a social on May 13th for Indie Meme Members to meet with Nagesh. If you are not already consider becoming a member. “Lakshmi” has stellar performances by Monali Thakur, Shefali Shah and Nagesh himself For Tickets, Screening & Film Details, Upcoming Mixer with Nagesh Kukunoor & Indie Meme Membership please visit: indiememe.com.
5 Ways to Save Money When Buying a Car Play your cards right and you can save big when replacing your car. The key is knowing where there’s real money on the table. Here are five proven ways to maximize savings when purchasing a vehicle, according to the experts at Autotrader, the leading online marketplace for buying and selling cars.
Consider CPO Your heart may be set on a particular new car, but when did the current version of that car debut?
Target Mid-Level Models Before pulling the trigger on the fully loaded model of a car, compare its price to the model line’s base price. The loaded version could cost around 50 percent more than the stripped-down special. You could probably buy the base model of a considerably nicer car for the same money. Target a mid-level specification of your chosen vehicle with meaningful upgrades.
For example, the brand-new Honda Accord at your local Honda dealer will be 2015 model, but the same platform, features and styling have been in use since 2013. You’ll get essentially the same car if you buy a used 2013 or 2014 vehicle. Plus, like Honda, most manufac-
turers’ certified pre-owned (CPO) programs include full reconditioning by factory-trained technicians, along with a competitive warranty. Consider purchasing lightly used models for thousands less than new. With a few exceptions, the CPO warranty makes it almost like buying new. Many brands even offer extras, such as a free satellite radio trial and free maintenance and roadside assistance. If you’re looking into CPO programs, consider such brands as Honda, Chevrolet, Ford, Kia and Lexus. Buy from Dealer Stock Buying from dealer stock of-
ten requires flexibility, because you’re choosing from what the dealer ordered, as opposed to ordering exactly what you want. But on the flip side, dealers have a strong incentive to move existing inventory. For substantial savings, take a good look at available inventory among all the nearby dealerships, and distant dealerships that offer long-distance delivery, to see if there’s anything close to what you want. Sell-by-Owner Watch out for dealerships eager to take your trade-in, as they typically won’t offer retail value. While this transaction is easy, it may cost you hundreds, if not thousands when compared to selling your car on the open market. Of course, you’ll need to be willing to spend time waiting for the
right buyer. An Autotrader classified ad is a great place to start. Pay Attention to Finance & Insurance Finance & Insurance (F&I) is where dealers make a lot of their money. The key is to be a hardnosed, well-informed shopper. Listen to what the dealership has to offer, but be ready with a backup plan that includes your own financing options. Make sure you read all the fine print on any warranties offered. There are good deals to be had, but it’s also easy to be taken to the cleaners. Those with excellent credit may be offered factory rebates and 0 percent financing. Educated car shoppers can save themselves a lot of money if they know how the business works, stress experts. (State Point).
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Ex-TCS Worker Alleges Bias In U.S. Favoring South Asians
WASHINGTON (IANS) A former employee of Tata Consultancy Services has accused the India information technology services company of favoring “South Asians” in its hiring and promotion. In a complaint filed April 14 in federal court in San Francisco, Steven Heldt claims that 95 percent of the 14,000 workers TCS employs in the U.S. are South Asian, and most are Indian. The practice, the lawsuit alleges, has created a “grossly disproportionate workforce.” TCS achieves its “discriminatory goals” by hiring large numbers of H-1B workers and hiring “disproportionately South Asian” workers locally, the complaint alleges, Computerworld reported. For the “relatively few non-South
Asians workers that Tata hires,” it shows bias in placement, promotion and termination decisions regarding them, the suit claims. From 2011-2013, TCS sponsored nearly 21,000 new H-1B visas, mainly workers from India, said the lawsuit, which seeks class action status.
American workers” and believed that “Indians were smarter and better qualified than Americans.”
A similar lawsuit was filed in 2014 against Infosys in federal court in Wisconsin.
“TCS is an equal opportunity employer, and as such, bases its employment decisions — including recruiting, hiring, promotions, retention, and discipline — on legitimate non-discriminatory business reasons without regards to race, national origin,” and other protected categories, he added.
Heldt in the lawsuit describes a “miserable experience during his 20-month employment period” at TCS, doing work that “often involved only menial responsibilities.” He also claims that he experienced substantial anti-American sentiment” on the job. The lawsuit contends that one top Tata human resources manager told recruiters to focus on hiring Indians, “expressed his dislike for
TCS spokesman Benjamin Trounson said the company “is confident” that Heldt’s allegations “are baseless and plans to vigorously defend itself against his claims.”
Trounson said in 2014 TCS recruited more than 2,600 U.S. hires, “many of whom are working on technologies and systems that support critical client needs and help to drive America’s innovation economy.”
NINE SPIRITED WOMEN Nine Spirited Women is proud to announce their participation in the 2015 WEST Austin Studio Tour, May 9, 10, 16, & 17th. This will be for WEST Austin Studio Tour Stops #196 & #197. A free copy of Studio Tour guide and map is available at all Austin Public Libraries on May 4th (one per person). During two weekends in May, these Nine Women artisans will be exhibiting artworks of sculpture, paintings, jewelry, and pottery. There will also be live art creating, music, tarot reading, yoga, and Om events. This event takes place at Quintanilla Sculpture Garden and Studio, 43 Pillow Road, Sunset Valley (SW Austin), TX 78745. Gates open 9-6 on Saturdays, and 11-6 on Sundays. Show runs May 9, 10, 16, & 17th.
Austin South Asian | May 2015
Fremont High School Juniors Develop Safe Driving App Fremont, Calif. – Two young Indian American teens, both juniors at American High School in Fremont, Calif., realized the impact of texting while driving after a friend got into a major car accident. Their friend had looked down for just a moment to look at an incoming text. During the momentary lapse, his car crashed into another, and was completely totaled. The young man suffered two broken ribs and spent two months recovering from the incident.
Texting while driving is now the leading cause of death among teenagers; about 3,000 teens die each year in texting-related accidents. The dangerous activity has surpassed drunk driving: 2,700 teens die each year from alcoholand automobile-related incidents, reports the New York-based Cohen Children’s Medical Center. A Virginia Tech university study found that almost half of the teens surveyed admitted to using social media while driving, including posting photos and watching videos.
The accident sparked an epiphany for Shreya Shah and Aditi Gopalan, two budding entrepreneurs involved in American High School’s DECA program. The Indian American duo developed an app, TextLock, which automatically locks up a phone from receiving or sending text messages and using other applications such as Facebook and Instagram - once the driver is in the car. A quarter-sized sensor placed on the driver’s seat connects with the TextLock app on a mobile Smartphone to disarm most of its functionality.
A Car and Driver magazine study reported that a scant five seconds of distraction while driving can cause a major collision. The study noted that reading a text worsened reaction times by 600 percent; reading a text is more dangerous than writing a text, noted the magazine. Gopalan told India-West she got her license six months ago and – despite the car accident involving her friend – she is tempted to look down when her phone buzzes, signaling a notification for an incoming text or activity on social media. “In that five seconds of looking down, I’ve travelled the length of a football field.”
Users can still make and receive calls via a Bluetooth device. Shah and Gopalan have applied for a patent for TextLock, and will showcase the app at DECA’s International Career Development Conference, which begins April 24 in Orlando, Florida. The app took third place honors in the California state competition; Shah and Gopalan were the only women among the top 10 teams. The five-day international conference will bring together 70,000 students from across the globe to share ideas and solutions for the world’s most-pressing crises. “Lots of kids just give up and say ‘only adults can do that,’ but age is just a number,” Shah told IndiaWest. The ebullient teen said she was excited about participating in the upcoming conference. “The business world is dominated by men; we want to increase diversity,” she said.
Gopalan said her parents, aunts and uncles all occasionally use their cell phones while driving, and she has accepted rides from friends who text and drive. The two entrepreneurs plan to market their product to teens and adults for about $25. Shah said the team is also targeting businesses with large fleets of employees who drive, making communication safer. DECA clubs at high schools and colleges across the nation aim to mentor young business leaders and foster entrepreneurship. Gopalan said she is considering a career in health administration. Shah said she is considering a career in public health combined with business entrepreneurship, and hopes to eventually study at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
Spreading The Literacy Love Through Book Drive By Padmini Bhat. This year we were fortunate enough to take part in the Summer Reading for All Book drive,conducted by Leander Independent School District.
Later cousin Dr Anand and Dr Mythili sent second shipment from Cleveland. Close friends from Cedar park
for all of us. When we shared the information on Facebook and emails,our friends supported for the great
Ashwini Bhat (9th Grade-CPHS) and Naveen Bhat (6TH GradeCPMS) participated in the the Book drive for their School District.
Volunteering together with the children has helped us in better communication and bondings. Giving back to the community shows there is more happiness in giving then receiving. We would like to extend our sincere appreciation and thank you notes to all the people who supported for the Literacy.
Through the community generosity and hard work ,were able to donate more than 65 books. Both of them made fliers and distibuted to the neighours and friends. We as parents were thrilled to support for the noble cause they were involved.Our friends from Dallas and Houston sent first shipment.
by teaching how their actions can change the world.School,sports and service can help to build better community.
came home and dropped more books.
cause with all the encouraging and enthusiastic comments.
It is really a gratifying experience
We want to create communites
What is Summer Reading for All Book drive? Leander ISD year TWO of the Summer Reading for All Book Drive to helps to keep all students reading during the summer. The book drive will help to give books to students who might not
otherwise have access to quality reading material. All levels of books will be accepted and all genres are needed (chapter books, picture books, non-fiction, fiction); however, the greatest need is for books appropriate for students in grades 6th through 12th.
FREE CLASSIFIED info@Austin SouthAsian.com
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
Unseasonal Rains, Failed Crops And Farmers’ Suicides Courtesy: Deccan Herald In recent weeks, on account of unseasonal rains, crops have suffered in North India. According to reported estimates, rabi crops in about 113 lakh hectares have been damaged. However, crop failures due to floods, droughts, hailstorms and other natural calamities are a regular phenomena in India. To address such issues, the government has launched crop and weather insurance schemes. As with any other insurance scheme, there are difficulties in making claims and availing appropriate amount in time. Finally, in most of the cases, the government announces relief to the farmers from the budget, impacting fiscal policy.
MODEL HOME NOW OPEN!
And then, the government instructs the Reserve Bank of India to accommodate farmers of affected areas by permitting some interest rate relief. Commercial banks, especially public sector banks, will be advised to help by either waiving or restructuring loans, impacting monetary policy. The insurance companies are also advised to proactively settle the claims. As agricultural activities support nearly 70 per cent of the population, there are political and economic implications for natural calamities impacting agriculture. Thus, there is a need to examine this issue in depth, analyse the implications and consider some long term remedial measures as this trend may not abate, given climatic changes due to global warming. Simultaneously, there is a fear that such natural setbacks to agriculture can lead to farmers’ suicides. On the one hand, we take pride in being a welfare state, regularly announcing schemes for social security and old age pensions, and making specific arrangements for providing minimum support price for many crops and assured procurement of their farm products. On the other, despite many facilities like subsidised power and fertiliser, opening of banking accounts, and direct transfer of benefits, the farmers are committing suicide owing to financial distress. (Continued On Page 18 )
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Healthy Snack Ideas For Your Little Athletes
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Kids may seem to have boundless energy, but running around the soccer field or baseball diamond takes effort -- and burns lots of calories. As a parent or coach, it’s important to make sure kids are well fueled. They’ll play better on the field and feel better afterwards. Whether it’s a practice game or the championship, come prepared with these fuss-free, nutritious, on-the-go snacks: • Victory veggies: Bring veggies that are easy to eat, such as baby carrots, celery sticks and bell pepper slices. They provide valuable vitamins and nutrients, and they won’t weigh down young athletes. • First-place fruit: Oranges, tangerines, watermelon and other juicy fruits are chock full of vitamins. And their high water content will help keep kids hydrated. Make these tasty fruit snacks even easier to eat by pre-slicing, pre-peeling and packing them in single-serve bags. Fun fact: olives, avocados and tomatoes are fruits! • Winning flavor: Olives are central to the bold, heart-healthy flavors of the Mediterranean style diet. Often used in cooking or served at meals, they are also a
terrific snack. An easy way to include olives in your kids’ pre- and post- game snack routine is with Pearls Olives to Go! These single-serve, liquid-free olives in a cup are available in America’s most popular variety: California-grown Black Pitted
Austin South Asian | May 2015
Tabla Mestro Ankur
a nutritious dose of antioxidants and omega-3s. Cheese sticks are another portable protein option. • Replenish & rehydrate: While nourishment is important, don’t overlook the importance of replenishing fluids and electrolytes lost during intense activity. Kids should quench their thirst throughout the game, especially in warmer weather. Water is always the best choice for hydration.
Olives. All kids need to do is peel the lid off the cup, which makes them an easy, mess-free addition to the usual snack line-up.
To resupply necessary sodium, offer your little athlete a salty snack, like olives, as a healthful, simple and natural alternative to the less healthful go-to snack, chips.
They’re also gluten-free, dairyfree, sugar-free, cholesterol-free, trans-fat-free, GMO-free and vegan.
Go easy on sports drinks, which can be loaded with calories and sugar and are generally unnecessary for the sports field except in the case of prolonged, vigorous exercise, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
• Powerful protein: A boost of protein after vigorous physical activity helps repair muscles. A handful of almonds or a scoop of trail mix is easy to pack in a resealable plastic bag and delivers
Whether you’re prepping for a big game or enjoying a casual scrimmage at the park, don’t forget snacks that will keep your athletic, on-the-go family healthy, hydrated and strong(StatePoint).
Piano Virtuoso Amogh
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
A MEMORABLE MUSICAL RAMANAVAMI
By Priya Raman
It is amazing how culture, religion, spirituality and philosophy acquire idealistic meanings under varied contexts and spaces. And most often when these feelings trigger larger perceptions in a society, it is pleasant to see how they influence towards greater relationship and people friendly environments. These expressions are outcomes of an observation of how organizations and social groups react to and interact with alien atmospheres to celebrate art! The performing arts circle of Austin concerted to glorify our ‘Ideal God’ Rama, on the occasion of Ramanavami through classical music and dance presentations. For its name, it was a first encounter with Austin’s cultural milieu, but the reverberations were nothing close to new, for once inside the closed doors of the au-
ditorium, it seemed akin to any of the Ravindra Bharatis, Ravindra Kalakshetras or Bhavans. A breezy Saturday afternoon and parents and (restless) siblings of young dancers dressed in the best of Indian attires waited for their turn on stage walking through the exits and entries and stuffing themselves with pongal and pizzas! The India Fine Arts association, a
premier organizer with decades of serving the Indian arts in this part of the world, played its best role to host almost the entire dance fraternity in and around Austin.
doses of Bharatanatyam through a triad by Divya Shanker, Pooja Rao and Anusha Danda choos-
Interludes giving brisk rushes of Rama’s life story without using a sahitya particularly, was refreshing.
Dr. Sreedhara Akkihebalu, a unique artiste who combines being a medical practitioner turned dancer/teacher, and taking to Yoga as a way of life, holds in him a legacy of the old school tradition of Bangalore, much to its glory. Some of the rare compositions by him along with newer compositions by his students were blended to Tulsidas’ select and rich poetic verses in Avadhi and Brij. A beautiful narrative of a seldom told scene from Ramayana – the first meeting of Rama and Sita served a signature piece. And if it is celebration of Rama, then Tyagaraja will make his choicest presence. Pavithra Ramadoss, Samhita Kosuru and Sangavai Ganesh pre-
sented episodes from the popular Tygaraja Ramayanam creating an initial De ja Vu, an instinct that comes from multiple watchings of Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant.. An ambitious group of women students gave a short representation for Anuradha Naimpally’s school through another gem of a composition – Nagumomu. Kuchipudi found its sole representation among continuous
and attractive costumes held up to the novel music with neat finishing and crisp adavus presented in style.
It is definitely not an easy talk to churn these many young dancers to an equal prowess of good standard in a country where driving and scheduling are more crucial to plan than the actual classes!
ing one of the pancharatna kritis – jagadananda karaka. The item evinced chaste Kuchipudi with typical muktayis and aradhis. For a linear explanatory piece, it was rightly interspersed with jathis exhibiting explicit intricate patterns executed in high standard despite the fast tempo. Tarangam, which by now has become a predictable ending of a Kuchipudi perfromance, did fill the palate what with the conclusion offering an interesting choreography of the ‘Sita apaharanam’ and ‘Ravana – Vinitha Subramanian’s experience and expertise in teaching was showcased through the effervescent Bhavayami raghuramam in all its detailing and in depth format of the song. It could have well been done without the overflowing entourage of dancers in and out of the stage. However, the almost 80’s recording with Prasanna Kumar’s nattuvangam and sholkattu was captured well in the rustic demeanor of the jathis. The final embellishment for me was a sparkling thillana by the younger students of Divya Shanker. Choreographed intelligently and executed in perfect tandem and high confidence, the group of close to ten girls in innovative
ICC NEEDS VOLUNTEERS India Community Center Of Austin needs VOLUNTEERS.
iccaustin @gmail. com To Advertise In ASA
call
512-828-6709
ACHIVEMENTS SIJO VADAKKAN-
Shortlisted for ‘Best Realtor Award’ in Texas Mr. Sijo Vadakkan, CEO of Trinity Group of Companies has been shortlisted for ‘Best Realtor of the Year’ Award in Texas. It’s consecutively the second time that this coveted award comes in search of this young, ambitious businessman of Austin. He is the first ever Indian to be shortlisted for such a prestigious distinction as the HBA MAX AWARD, an honor reserved for persons of outstanding performance in the Real Estate arena. Among the other nominees for this award are: Gayle Berkbigler, (Lake Travis Builders), Tammy Templin (Lake Travis Builders), Jacquelyn Goreman (Scott Felder Homes). Mr. Sijo, is known for his management and business efficiency, migrated with his family to US more than ten years ago and since then has been climbing the ladder of success with business deals worth $ 65 million in the previous year. A panel of experts of the Home Builders Association will judge the entries and the winner of the Award will be announced on 2, May 2015 at Hilton Hotel in Austin. Sijo lives in Texas, with wife Litty and their two children Annie and Allen. For more details email: info@trinitytxrealty. com
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
AUSTIN INDIAN NON PROFITS
Asian American Resource Center (AARC) Austin Bollywood Cultural Association ABHN (Asian Behavioral Health Network) AFSSA /SAHELI AKS (Austin Kannada Sangha) AMM (Austin Marathi Mandal) Art of Living Arya Samaj Asha ATS Austin Bengali Association Austin Dance India / Anu Dance Austin Gurdwara Sahib Austin Hindu Temple Austin Indian Austin Intercultural Network BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir of Austin Bollywood Shake BTC CAAAD Chinmaya Mission of Austin CTBA Cutting Chai Productions Dining for Women - Chapter 1 Dining for Women - Chapter 2 Ekal Vidyalaya GAACC GAMA GSA HC4A IACT IASCA ICC ICMCA IDEAYA IFA Indian Syrian Orthodox Church IndieMeme Jain Sangh of Greater Austin Monsoon Dance NAAO Naga Valli Natyalaya School of Dance NetIP Oliver Rajamani’s music group Om Shanti Place for Change Pratham Radha Madhav Dham RangaMancha (Play group) SAADA SAALT Circle SABA Sai Baba Group SAIVA School of Social Work - Former Dean Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple of Austin TCA TIE Austin Tiru Gallery TV Asia UT Center for Asian American Studies UT ICA UT ISA Vadtal Swaminarayan Temple Vibha
Contact Person
lesleyvarghese@gmail.com Lesley Varghese soundimaging.medical@gmail.com Jignesh Patel abhn.austin@gmail.com Esther Chung lphan@saheli-austin.org Linda Phan sukumarveena@hotmail.com Veena Rao Sukumar spanvalkar@hotmail.com Smita Kulkarni, Prasad bimalenduc@gmail.com” Bimal Choudhary/Anoop mahendrus@yahoo.com Swarn Mahendru austin@ashanet.org Gaurav Agarwal vijaysan@gmail.com Mahendran Nagarajan zareefc@yahoo.com Ashan “Hero” Chaudry anu@anudance.com Anuradha Naimpally hbains@austin.rr.com Harnek S. Bains guptaji1949@yahoo.com UmaKant Gupta nimish_pathak@yahoo.com Nimish Pathak shalini.komalra@gmail.com Shalini Komarla kamalswami@gmail.com Kamal Dhanani info@bollywoodshakeaustin.com Ruchika Dias s_kotecha@yahoo.com Sonia Kotecha ramey.ko@gmail.com Ramey Ko info@chinmayaaustin.org Srinath Iyengar niloyjdeb@hotmail.com Niloy Deb sush@cuttingchaiproductions.com Sushma Parmar jayathakkar62@gmail.com Jaya Thakkar mehta_seema@hotmail.com Seema Mehta gadhiat@yahoo.com Talsi Gadhia mbhargava@AustinAsianChamber.org Marina Bhargava animon.jose@gmail.com Jose Animon / PG R sdodia09@gmail.com Satyajeet Dodia kotecha@yahoo.com Harish Kotecha salvi@iactaustin.org Shahin Alvi jagdishkot@yahoo.com Jagdish Kothari marylm@aol.com Mary Matthew icmca.committee@gmail.com Prashant Manikal kumari.samineni@gmail.com Kumari Samineni raj38@hotmail.com Mrs. Janaki Nagarajan stgregorios.online@gmail.com alka_bhanot@yahoo.com Alka Bhanot pankil@hotmail.com Pankil Matalia shrutinanand@gmail.com Shruti Anand dasgupta1974@gmail.com Sumit Dasgupta booking@nagavalli.com Naga Valli Vinita Subramanian suminabhatti@gmail.com Ganesh Dasika / Sumina booking@oliverrajamani.com Oliver Rajamani prakash.mohandas@gmail.com Prakash Mohandas mark@placeforchange.com Mark Henson info@prathamusa.org Vandana Kumar chirag@radhamadhavdham.org Chirag Patel /Braj Rani apteamit@gmail.com Amit Apte samip@saadigitalarchive.org Samip Mallick shahishamim@hotmail.com Shamim Shahi sujata.ajmera@gmail.com Arpana Parikh / Sujata info.austin@sairegion10.org Mahesh Mahadevan saivamembership@gmail.com Shubhada Saxena khinduka@wustl.edu Shanti Khinduka info@saiaustin.org Craig & Jill Edwards s_shamapant@yahoo.com G. Narsi Reddy mayur@ieee.org Mayur Mehta tirugallery@gmail.com Rama Tiru govilseema@gmail.com Seema Govil sona.shah@austin.utexas.edu Sona Shah aishwaryasonawane@yahoo.com Aishavaraya Sonawane kushalp8493@gmail.com Kushal Patel rdesai2001@hotmail.com Dushyant Desai coordinator@austin.vibha.org Angela Sohan
Make A Difference...GM Diet
By Vidya Kumar As I am going to India to attend my niece’s wedding and also several other ceremonies I decided on losing weight before going to India rather than after coming back from India when one has put on more weight and so more difficult to lose weight. I started researching the web and asking friends and co-workers what is going to work. Finally, I found that GM diet – which one can look up on the website works!! It clearly states that it is just for 7 days so it is doable. And moreover, there is variety in eating dif-
ferent foods everyday– not just the same food. So I am really happy that I was able to start off by losing weight in the first week. As GM diet is nothing but detoxification of the body you cannot do it for more than seven days. Please visit the website www. gmdietworks.com and there is details of all the seven days what needs to be done. You can google for GM diet for vegetarians and for Indians – there are plenty of websites that gives you how the diet works. Before starting off on any diet ritual please check with your family doctor whether it is suitable for you.
Failed Crops And Farmers’ Suicides
(Continued From Page 14) To understand the phenomenon of suicide by farmers, there is a need to understand the social and economic circumstances that prevail in rural economy. On the positive side, the terms of trade in agriculture have improved in recent years because of higher food prices. This trend is expected to continue in view of increasing urbanisation and shrinking of available land for agricultural purpose, and increase in rural purchasing power because of numerous government schemes like the rural job scheme. The increased availability of purchasing power can also be gauged from the fact that nearly 70 per cent of gold sold in the country is in rural areas. On the other side, indebtedness in rural areas is rising, because farmers tend to borrow from all available sources, including money lenders, on the pledge of standing crop. (Continued On Page 19)
APPEAL TO NON PROFITS Please help us in updating the contact information. Please email correct information if you think the published information needs update. We appreciate if you can also provide a contact number so that your members / community can reach you. We will also carry this on our website and keep it updated for the benefit of community. email: info@austinsouthasian.com 512-828-6709
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
May Predictions - 2015
ARIES (March 21 to April 20): Some of you may finally decide to move on in life and start looking for another job, within and even outside country of current residence. Money wise you will stay comfortable. You may call and old confidant for advice and guidance on career related matter. It will be an excellent month for people in food business. TAURUS (April 21 to May 20): You will have better control over things in life and will be able to take all decisions with a cool and rational mind. Any changes in career at this point will be a blessing in disguise. New contract will relieve you of previous tension. You may arrange a small get together at your place and invite few close friends. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Obstacles will cause some frustration. You will travel to another state to attend an important meeting. You may also make final payment on a short term loan or credit card. Home remedy will be enough to
resolve health issues. You may be slowly working on a vacation also. You will do some serious cleaning inside and outside home. CANCER (June 21 to July 22): You will lay your hands on some real easy money this month. A big refund or payment will also come via mail. Just do not involve your self in other people’s problems. Keep working on your plans as ultimate success is just few days away. Some of you may start looking for a better place to move this coming summer. LEO (July 23 to August 22): New strategy will be helpful in turning things around for your benefit. You will be able to prove your point and reap rich rewards money wise. Spouse will be little stressed out for no visible reason. You will continue your search for another location and may fill up some kind of applications in a hurry this month. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22): You will be selected among number of applicants for the prestigious job. People in
business will continue to gain an edge over their competitors with the new strategy. Help will come from totally unexpected place. Just do not stretch your limits and avoid making any big financial commitments during the month. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22): Having almost everything and things going right way, you may still feel little uneasy and lack the real motivation. You have to overcome it quick and just look at what you got and feel content. People in business will experience better sales. Quick thinking and action will help make money through stocks also. SCORPIO November
(October 23 to 22): There is absolutely no harm in being ambitious as long it does not turn into greed. Avoid initiating a legal case just to harass some one who could not fulfill his commitment. You will continue to make slow and steady progress as far as money is concerned. You may be traveling to a comparatively warmer area. SAGITTARIUS (November 23 to December 22): Excellent time for people in marketing and sales.
This is the right time to approach boss or a government agency to seek big favors. Its high time that you should throw all your fears out and implement your plans. You may receive some money though small amount through a legal process. Trip will be very fruitful. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19): Money will come but will be hard to hold. Loan application will be approved with added conditions.
useful material. You may start your search for another location to move. P I S C E S (February 19 to March 20): Help will come from unexpected place. An incidence which will make you unhappy will prove to be a blessing in disguise the very next day. You should not not change your travel plans and proceed with positive attitude. Email or letter you mail out will bring positive response. Some electric item will need to be replaced.
A government agency giving run around in the past, will ease off their requirements and you will start to see the light at the end of tunnel. It is favorable month for those looking for a change in career. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18): With new strategy, you will be able to turn things around in your favor all of a sudden. Some one creating problems will quit the scene. You may one more time put your needs aside and help a needy sibling or a friend. You will be studying some very
Pandit Parashar parashar@parashar.com www.parashar.com 925-833-7170
Unseasonal Rains, Failed Crops And Farmers’ Suicides (Continued From Page 18) In the case of crop failure, debt burden on the farmer increases and therefore the stress level, which is ascribed to be a leading cause of suicides. There could be another reason for reporting of debt-stress related suicides which need to be examined carefully. On every financial stress related reported suicide, family of the deceased is provided a compensation of nearly Rs 5 lakh in addition to waiving of all loans out-
standing with the public sector banks. An alternative, which insulates monetary, fiscal, banking and financial sector policies from regular agricultural events, needs to be considered. First, the government could set up a National Financial Distress Relief Fund (NFDRF) which would provide due compensation after verifying the factors that led to the suicides, assessing genuine reasons of any financial stress on the deceased, including outstanding loans. This should be on the
lines similar to the strict procedure required to claim money under the life insurance policy. Crop Failure Relief Fund The corpus of NFDRF should be formed by contributions made by farmers themselves through annual premiums or during the harvest season. Second, and more important, there is also need for a National Crop Failure Relief Fund (NCFRF) to be established which should also be adequately funded by the farmers during harvest and bumper crops. The government,
and others, including private entities, under the corporate social responsibility, could make initial contribution to the corpus of both these funds. The compensation would only be given to those farmers who regularly contribute to both these funds. The contribution to these funds can be operated through bank accounts in commercial banks and post offices. Now, with the success of the Jan Dhan Yojana, there is need to
extensively extend penetration of life and crop insurance in rural India. The highly subsidised contribution from farmers for the existing government insurance schemes for crops should be ensured. For the six lakh villages in the country and about 16 crore rural households, it would be helpful if the National Sample Survey Organisation undertakes a survey to understand the factors that cause financial stress on the rural families.
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
May 2015 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: May 02, Saturday, 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM, CelebrASIA Austin: Asian Pacific American Food & Heritage Festival at Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754. Help decide the winner of the AARC’s second annual Battle of the Asian Food Trucks, with our theme in-
gredient coconut! Plus, cultural performances, kids’ activities, games, educational food booths, artisan marketplace, community outreach fair, heritage showcases and more! Free admission and activities. $20 tasting ballots for Food Truck Battle. Additional food and items available for sale. AARC Ballroom, Great Lawn. For more information, visit www.austintexas.
gov/aarc/. May 02, Saturday, 03:00 PM, AMM Picnic 2015 is at Zilker Park Playscape Shelter Picnic Area (next to Train Station), 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746 May 08, Friday, 08:30 AM - 10:00 PM,
Indian-American Vivek Murthy Is US’s Youngest Surgeon-General, Takes Oath On Gita (Continued From Page 01) “By any reasonable measure, I shouldn’t be standing here. My father is the son of a farmer in rural India. He was supposed to have been a farmer, as was I,” Vivek Murthy recalled to a gaggle of supporters gathered at a military base in Fort Myer after he was administered oath (on a Bhagavad Gita) on Wednesday by vice president Joe Biden as the 19th surgeon general of the United States, America’s doctorin-chief. Clearly unaware of the tumult in India over the farmer suicide, Murthy then added, “But for my grandfather’s insistence that his son get an education, even if that meant going into debt, we might have never left that village (Hallegere in Karnataka’s Mandya district) to go out in the world and - as my grandfather also insisted - start fixing what needed fixing.” “We were not supposed to have become Americans. My parents stopped in three other countries - including a brutal dictatorship on their journey to get here. They saved up money and scrounged for information about job opportunities, always knowing that America was the des-
tination,” Murthy continued, outlining what has now become a familiar Indian-American template for success. He then thanked everyone who helped him, at 37, become America’s youngest surgeon-general, and the first Indian-American to occupy an office that carries with it a three-star military designation - vice admiral Vivek Murthy - saying, “I am who I am because of my grandmother’s faith, my father’s strength, my mother’s love, my sister’s support, and my fiancee’s unyielding belief in me. I am blessed to have all of them here with me today. I will always be grateful to them for the sacrifices they have made.” Encomiums came in thick and fast for the remarkable man for whom President Barack Obama, who nominated him for the position, battled through Republican opposition for more than a year to secure a confirmation for what will be a four-year tenure. “I applaud the Senate for confirming Vivek Murthy,” the President said following the confirmation. “As ‘America’s Doctor,’ Vivek will hit the ground running to make sure every American has the information they need to keep themselves and their fami-
lies safe. He’ll bring his lifetime of experience promoting public health to bear on priorities ranging from stopping new diseases to helping our kids grow up healthy and strong.” Indeed, Murthy has been running even before his swearing in, shooting a promotional film with the Sesame Street character Elmo last week to promote vaccination. On Wednesday, he put forth an expansive agenda for America, befitting the nation’s “TopDoc” as he was called on Twitter, including promoting healthy living, raising awareness of mental illness, tackling childhood vaccinations, and curbing drug abuse. “Today, we face a rising tide of diabetes, heart disease and cancer. We will lose nearly half a million lives this year to tobacco-related disease. Forty-two million people in our country struggle with mental illness,” he said of a country which spends more per capita on health than any other nation but yet has poor outcomes. “Heroin and prescription drug abuse ravage towns across America, and vaccine-preventable diseases we thought we had contained have come back with a vengeance because of fear and misinformation.”
Disoriented Comedy is at the Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754. The first-ever (mostly) female Asian American stand-up comedy tour featuring nationallytouring Los Angeles-based writer and comic Jenny Yang and standup comedian, writer and actress Atsuko Okatsuka along with local up-and-coming Asian American comedians. Doors open 8 pm, show begins 8:30pm. Tickets $8 pre-sale or $10 at door, available at http://disorientedcomedy.weebly.com/. May 09, Saturday, 02:00 PM, TCA Ugadi and Sri Rama Navami Celebrations is at C D Fulkes Middle School, 400 W Anderson Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664. Tickets: Premium $ 25.00; Non-profit Member $ 15.00; Member $ 12.00; Kids (5-15 yrs) $ 10.00 May 09, Saturday, 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM, Care to Dance Showcase is at the Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754. Featuring performances from more than 150 AISD students and community collaborations. Proceeds from raffle drawings go directly to children served by non-profit Leap of Joy. FREE. AARC Ballroom. May 10, Sunday, 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM, Mother’s Day Celebration at Radha Madhav Dham Hindu Temple is at Radha Madhav Dham Hindu Temple 400 Barsana Road, Austin, TX 78737. May 13, Wednesday, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM,
GAACC Business Buzz is at the Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754. The Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce presents “Google My Business & Facebook Advertising” with speaker Ricardo Guerror, CEO and Chief Buzz Generator of Social Media Dynamo. Learn how to effectively use Google My Business and Facebook Advertising to engage and communicate directly with current and potential clients. FREE. Register online at www. austinasianchamber.org. AARC Conference Room. May 15, Friday, 08:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Hidden Epidemic: Bullying and Asian American Youth is at the Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754. Come for a brief presentation on bullying and panel of mental/behavioral health professionals who will provide reallife examples and lessons. This training also hopes to foster a discussion on how professional and community-based organizations can collaborate to address the issue. Breakfast & Networking 8:30 to 9am, Training 9am to 12pm. FREE. $30 CEU Certificate available. May 16, Saturday, 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM, Traditional Peking Opera is at the Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754. The Austin Peking Opera Club and Chinese Opera Club of Houston present this rare opportunity to see performed selected scenes from four classic Peking operas: Into the Palace the Second Time, Farewell to My Concubine, Lady Mu the Marshal, and Mother-Son Reunion. Chinese and English subtitles will be provided. FREE.
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
Hindu Temple In Texas Vandalized With Graffiti Nepal Earthquake
(Continued From Page 01) In the attack at the North Texas Hindu Mandir in the Lake Highlands suburb of Dallas, vandals painted symbols of devil worship on the temple’s door, media reports said April 18.
The attackers left behind on a shed at the temple the mark of Mara Salvatrucha, an international gang originating among immigrants from the predominantly Catholic nation of El Salvador and active in the U.S. The 11CBS network in the Dallas-Fort Worth area reported that a temple board member, Krishna Singh, said mandir members discovered the graffiti April 13. “That was a big shock, really,” the network quoted her as saying. “It makes me sad inside,” nine-yearold Gracie Reed told 11CBS. “To me, it’s really horrifying because I don’t know who would do this to a church,” the child said referring to the house of worship. Dallas police have sent detectives from their gang unit to investigate the incident, according to WFAA, an ABC network affiliated local station. While the administration of President Barack Obama, who has criticized India over religious tolerance, and Christian leaders had not reacted as of April 19 to
the Texas vandalism, non-Hindu neighbors have offered to help the temple.
Leaders of the Hindu American Foundation praised the residents of Lake Highlands as they joined members of the North Texas Hindu Mandir April 18 to clean the graffiti by painting over the hateful messages. “Mandir members and the board are saddened by this event, but at the same time feel it has brought us closer to our neighbors and Old Lake Highlands residents,” said Shiva Maharaj, the temple’s president. “The Mandir has always had a great relationship with our neighbors, but after this event, their outpouring of concern has sincerely touched us. We thank them for helping us with our ‘Clean Up Day - Painting over the Pain, while Rolling on New Memories,’” he added. This is the first time the temple has been attacked since it was founded in 2002. Temple officials said they would soon add surveillance cameras and construct a fence to ensure its safety. “An attack on any house of worship is an affront to all people of faith,” said Dr. Rajiv Pandit, HAF executive council member in Dallas. “And while this latest crime
adds to a growing trend of intolerance towards the Hindu and other minority communities, the support shown by the temple’s neighbors represents one of the greatest qualities of everyday Americans.” The gesture of help from neighbors was welcomed by Hindus.
(Continued From Page 01) And some of the grim figures are likely to get even worse as hopes
The landslide happened around 4 p.m. in Langtang National Park, said Ramesh Dhamala, president of the Trekking Agents of Nepal.
The temple supports community charities like food banks for the poor and an organization that helps victims of child abuse. According to 11CBS, “666” and an upside-down cross were painted on the temple door. They symbolize devil worship. Some Christian leaders, including a former candidate for the Republican Party’s presidential nomination, Pat Robertson, have called Hinduism “demonic.” The attack is the latest in a series of attacks on Hindu places of worship. Two temples were vandalized in Washington state in February. In August, a statue of Shiva at the Vishwa Bhavan Hindu Mandir in Monroe, Georgia, was desecrated with black paint. The local sheriff’s office arrested two people in connection with the attack. Between July and October in Loudon County in Virginia, police have documented 17 separate incidents of anti-Hindu vandalism, the Hindu American Foundation said.
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of rescuing any more survivors diminish every hour. Heartbreaking scenes of suffering and loss are playing out across this shell-shocked nation as it reels from its deadliest natural disaster in more than 80 years. As the country coped with the fallout of the quake, another natural disaster struck Tuesday afternoon in a popular trekking area north of Kathmandu, and up to 200 people were feared missing as a result, a trekking association official said.
Laxmi Dhakal, spokesman for Nepal’s Home Ministry, said he was aware of reports about the landslide but wasn’t immediately able to confirm details. Quake relief efforts continued Tuesday, but officials warned that they were hampered by problems of getting aid into the country and then delivering it to some of the remote communities in desperate need. (Continued On Page 23)
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THEME: MOTHER’S DAY ACROSS 1. Milan’s La ____ 6. Globe shape 9. Saintly sign 13. Alexandre Duma’s “The Black ____” 14. Broadcast 15. Happen again 16. Like city life 17. Mudbath site 18. Fill with high spirits 19. *”Mommie ____,” movie 21. *Kate Hudson’s mom 23. Dog command 24. Like Andersen’s duckling 25. Eric Stonestreet on “Modern Family” 28. Hard currency 30. Internet business 35. In the sack 37. Sometimes hard to reach 39. Irrigation water wheel 40. Track event 41. *Suri’s mom, e.g. 43. Fix a horse 44. ____’s razor 46. *Bébé’s mother 47. Copycat 48. Tarzan’s swings 50. A in B.A. 52. “... ____ he drove out of sight” 53. Repair, as in socks 55. Pull the plug on 57. *Mom to Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy March 60. *Popular Mother’s Day gift 64. Kim Jong-un of North ____ 65. Reverential salutation 67. Tie again 68. Relating to Quechuan people 69. Intelligence org. 70. Dodge 71. Don’t let this hit you on the way out 72. One of Bartholomew Cubbins’ 500 73. More sly
Austin South Asian | May 2015
DOWN 1. Part of house frame 2. Prepare by drying or salting 3. *This famous Jessica became a mom in 2008 4. Pinocchio and his kind 5. Relating to apnea 6. Brewer’s kiln 7. Tombstone acronym 8. Health food pioneer 9. Retained 10. Palm tree berry 11. Guitar forerunner 12. Bonanza find 15. Count on 20. Indifferent to emotions 22. *Like Mother Hubbard 24. Soiled 25. *TV’s “lovely lady” 26. Olden day calculators 27. Muhammad’s birthplace 29. Big-ticket ____ 31. “Animal House” garb 32. French pancake 33. Oil tanker 34. *”Mother” in Italian 36. Novelist Koontz 38. German mister 42. Asian pepper 45. Sterling, Cooper or Draper 49. Sigma Alpha Epsilon 51. Soft palate vibrations 54. Boxer’s stat 56. Inhabit 57. Kissing disease? 58. Atlantic Richfield Company 59. Last row 60. Notable achievement 61. Evening purse 62. Hitchhiker’s quest 63. Nostradamus, e.g. 64. *Mom has at least one 66. By way of
SOLUTION
Sudoku
Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com. Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in Feberuary 2015 issue.
To Advertise in ASA call 512828-6709
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
Nepal Earthquake: Death Toll Passes 4,600 As Rescuers Face Challenges (Continued From Page 21) In Kathmandu, a capital city of shattered temples and toppled houses, some people paid their last respects to loved ones taken by the quake.
‘Many people are crying’ Elsewhere in the city, many shaken residents are sleeping in the open -- some have lost their
that is typically used for parades. One of the grand gates to the field is now just a pile of rubble.
By the Bagmati River, which winds through the city, more than a dozen funeral pyres burned Monday. As workers stoked the flames for the Hindu cremation ceremonies, some mourners shaved their heads -- a traditional show of mourning from children who lose their parents. Alongside their father, two teenage brothers from the Gurung family, Ishan and Iman, said goodbye to their mother, Ishara. “We never imagined this would happen to us. This much pain,” said Ishan, the elder of the two.
homes, others are afraid to stay in buildings that may be vulnerable to aftershocks. Large encampments of tents have sprung up in open areas, including a wide space belonging to the military in the center of the city
Kisnor Raj Giri, a 22-year-old man from Kathmandu who lost members of his extended family in the quake, said he was too scared to return home. He is camping out at the military grounds with thousands of others even though frequent rain has made the nights
an ordeal. “Many people are crying, sharing their hardships,” he told CNN on Monday evening. The elements showed no mercy to the homeless masses on Tuesday as thunderstorms rumbled over Kathmandu -- and more bad weather is forecast for the region in the coming days. But in one piece of good news, Turkish and Chinese rescue crews helped pull free a 21-year-old man trapped under rubble near a city bus park in a 13-hour rescue operation. The death toll has now climbed above 4,600 in Nepal, officials said Tuesday evening, as rescue and relief efforts continue. Dhakal, the Home Ministry spokesman, put the death toll at 4,620, while Nepal’s National Emergency Coordination Center said the number of dead was 4,727. Both sources gave the number of people injured as 9,239.
April 2015 Sudoku Answer:
Correct Answer: Yudhveer Bagga
Another 72 people died in India, while China reported 25 deaths. Most of the casualty numbers in Nepal are believed to have come mainly from Kathmandu and the surrounding area. They are expected to climb as information emerges from remote areas. “We have incomplete information,
but we apprehend the death toll will go up,” Nepalese Information Minister Minendra Rijal told CNN earlier on Tuesday. “We cannot say by how much exactly.” The news agency Reuters cited Prime Minister Sushil Koirala as saying that the toll could reach 10,000 and that the country was “on a war footing” in its rescue and relief work. In a live, televised address to the nation, the Prime Minister said the country had been stunned by the disaster and announced three days of national mourning, starting Tuesday. The government’s first priority is to continue search and rescue operations and relief efforts, he said, as he thanked all those involved. Historic and religious monuments destroyed by the earthquake will be reconstructed in time, he added. At least 90% of 96,000 Nepali army troops have been deployed in relief and rescue operations, according to Nepal army spokesman Jagadish Chandra Pokharel. More than 15 countries and agencies have already promised help, Koirala said, as he appealed for other nations also to come to Nepal’s aid. Even as international aid pours into the country, overwhelmed hospitals are lacking vital medical supplies, people remain buried in the wreckage of buildings and rescuers are struggling to reach hard-hit rural areas near the quake’s epicenter. “The biggest problem is reaching these villages,” Matt Darvas, an emergency communications officer for the humanitarian group World Vision, told CNN from Gorkha district, northwest of Kathmandu.
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
�mma Sri Karunamayi 2015 World Tour Experience Amma’s
Unconditional Love, Peace and Divine Blessings �
Austin Texas Programs May 1 - 3, 2015 Friday, May 1, 2015
Individual Blessings & Saraswati Diksha — 11 am - 5 pm One World Theatre 7701 Bee Caves Rd, Austin, TX 78746 For information call Sherry 512-750-9206 or Linda at 512-657-5262 Saturday, May 2, 2015
One-Day Meditation Retreat — 9 am - 6 pm Austin Hindu Temple 9801 Decker Lake Rd, Austin, TX 78724 For information email Sherry at sakbub@aol.com or call Sherry at 512-750-9206 or Linda at 512-657-5262
Join Amma
Participate in a 10-day Fire Ceremony for World Peace
Sri Lalitambika Devi Maha Maha Yajnam May 29 - June 7 SRIM Center, Atlanta www.karunamayi.org for details
Sunday, May 3, 2015
Homa — Sacred Fire Ceremony — 9 am - 1 pm Austin Hindu Temple 9801 Decker Lake Rd, Austin, TX 78724 For information call Sherry 512-750-9206 or Linda at 512-657-5262
www.karunamayi.org
All programs are open to the public and free of charge with the exception of the meditation retreat and Saraswati Diksha, which require registration and have a nominal fee. Saraswati Diksha is only offered to students ages 4-24. People of all faiths are welcome. Sponsorship opportunities are available to perform the homa in Amma’s divine presence. For more details, please visit http://karunamayi.org/world-tour/north-america/
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
Salman Khan To Sing Is Manisha Koirala’s Kannada-Tamil Movie Ballad For ‘Hero’ Remake Based On Sunanda Pushkar’s Life?
Mumbai — Salman Khan is set to sing another track after his hits in “Kick,” this time for his own production directed by Nikhil Advani — “Hero,” the authorized remake of Subhash Ghai’s 1983
ballad, soft-rock et al as the days of desi genres seem to have become passé!) featuring the lead pair Sooraj Pancholi and Athiya Shetty.
ya is Suniel Shetty’s daughter. The song, “O Khuda” sung by Palak Muchhal, will be in the finale of the movie and will show the male and female protagonists’ lives in a flashback.
Rumour has it that ‘Game’, a Kannada-Tamil bilingual movie that is being directed by AMR Ramesh, is based on the life of late Sunanda Pushkar, wife of former Union Minister Shashi Tharoor. Sunanda had died under mysteri-
But reports say that the movie might be associated with Sunanda Pushkar’s mysterious murder as a part of the movie is set in a forensic lab in Chennai.
ous circumstances bringing even her husband under the purview of the judiciary.
in The Hindu, only details the director gives is that the movie is “a murder mystery”. Manisha gets murdered in the film and Arjun investigates this complicated case.”
According to a report published
The film’s composer, Amaal Malik, said, “Nikhil’s brief to me was that it’s a song about two lovers against the world. So, we have lots of cellos, violins and larger-than-life flashbacks. The fact that Sooraj is lip-syncing to Salman’s voice makes the song really big, and parts of it will be used in the background score through the lovers’ journey.” film “Hero” (No, there is no unauthorized one!). He will be singing a ballad (nowadays all Hindi films have songs described by Western trends, like
The two young actors make their debut with this movie as the latest star kids. Sooraj is the son of Aditya and Zarina Wahab Pancholi, and Athi-
The song promises to reflect the film’s essence and, in another weird change, it has already been filmed, but Salman has yet to sing it! Yes, change is the order of the day, but looks like change is now the disorder, too!
Weekend Box Office Collection: Raghava Lawrence’s ‘Kanchana 2’, Mani Ratnam’s ‘O Kadhal Kanmani’ (‘Ok Kanmani’) Leads The weekend box office collection of Tamil movies in Chennai is out and the reports suggest that most of the recent releases have
managed to pull in a good number of viewers to the theatre. According
to
popular Tamil movie website Behindwoods, Raghava Lawrence’s latest flick “Kanchana 2” is leading in box office collection from 20-26 April in Chennai, followed by Mani Ratnam’s “OK Kanmani”. Karthi’s “Komban” and Udayanidhi Stalin’s “Nanbenda” has managed to grab the third and fourth positions,
respectively. The second weekend collection of “Kanchana 2” is estimated to be ₹ 1,30,12,872 from 282 shows and the weekday box office collection is ₹1,13,88,244 from 332 shows, making the total collection of the movie in the second week as ₹ 3,75,49,733.
Reportedly, when actress Khushboo was offered a role in the movie, she inquired about the plot, which Ramesh refused to reveal.
This is the first time Manisha Koirala is acting in a Kannada movie.
Sachin Tendulkar About His Daughters Film Debut
Rumors were rife today with some sections of the online media claiming that Sachin Tendulkar’s teenage daughter Sara is making
ously annoyed about the rumors and has tweeted that “ My daughter Sara is enjoying her academic pursuits.
her Bollywood debut opposite Shahid Kapoor in a new film.
Annoyed at all the baseless speculation about her joining films.”
With the kind of reception the movie has been getting so far, the industry analysts are hoping that “Kanchana 2” will be declared a blockbuster hit in the coming days. At the same time, Mani Ratnam’s “OK Kanmani” has also done extremely well in its second week in box office with total collection of ₹ 2,04,90,564.
The Master Blaster was obvi-
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
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Austin South Asian | May 2015
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Austin South Asian | May 2015