Austin South Asian. March. 2020 by Austin South Asian

Monthly Community Paper | www.austinsouthasian.com | 512-828-6709 | Vol. 13 No. 03

5th South Asian Film Festival

Census 2020

By Ashwin Ghatalia

The 2020 Census counts every person living in the 50 states, District of Columbia, and five U.S. ter-

ritories. Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail. (Continued On Page 05)

inside

March 2020

The Picture Book World..4 Census 2020................05 2020 Tax Season..........06 Arun’s Scribblings.........06 6 Ways To Protect........08 Dr’s Approach..............08 Severe Asthma.............09 A defining 4 days of a rich immersive cultural experience, through incredible cinema from South Asia. In its 5th year, April 2nd to April 5th, IMFF 2020 is gearing up to present fresh perspectives to the Austin community yet again. Be the first ones to see this exciting contemporary cin-

Austin’s Geeta Bajaj

By Sumaiya Malik Imagine being in kindergarten through university in Austin while being passionate about filmmaking. (Continued On Page 05)

ema from South Asia and become a part of a community of like-minded people in Austin. Passionate discussions, enlightening observations, opening and closing night parties all hold the stellar programming together to make what is a 4 day party! (Continued On Page 24)

Talk Money

Screen Time Financial Health 2020 Screen time is a hot topic for parents and researchers alike. While digital devices are the norm, and children can certainly use them to

The first months of the year are a great time to build a plan to achieve your financial health goals. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Has your family discussed money concerns?

Clinical psychologists note that when kids don’t have enough information about something, they may become anxious, make up their own explanations -- which can include blaming themselves for a perceived problem -- or seek information from other, potentially unreliable sources. (Continued On Page 10)

their benefit, parents can also help children learn healthy digital habits. Research is still working out the long-term impact of devices on kids. Here’s what’s known so far, and what you as a parent can do about it. (Continued On Page 18)

Check your credit reports To start building your plan, it’s important to know where you stand. Checking your credit reports regularly is a good first step, as your credit health is an important part of your overall financial wellness. (Continued On Page 18)

April 2020 Real Estate Special

512-828-6709 Tips For Students& Teachers To Get Through......09 HC4A..........................10 Malik’s Page...05,11,12,13 5th IMFF..................16,17 Financial Health 2020...18 Screen Time.................18 Carrier Helping Others Make You Happier........19 Manage Severe Asthma19 DIY Or Hire A Pro.........20 Financial Advising........20 Daylight Savings Time..21 Roundtable-Canditates..21 Kids Corner....14,22,23,25 Tips To Help Family Caregivers Avoid Burnout....23 One Kidney Is Enough..24 Entertainment.........26.27

Austin South Asian | March 2020

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Austin South Asian | March 2020

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Austin South Asian | March 2020

The Picture Book World

By Shachi Kaushik

After a long day at work, if you are looking for ways to spend time with your little ones, then reading with your kids is magical. Reading not only helps in literacy but also strengthens the bond. If you are looking for book suggestions, then here are a few you can check out: Festival of Colors’ - by Author Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal, Illustrator Vashti Harrison As we celebrate Holi, the festival of colors,

story about two siblings Mintoo and Chintoo, getting ready to celebrate Holi. As spring arrives, they gather the colorful flowers to make the colored powder for Holi. On the big day, they gather together with their friends and family to play with the colors celebrating the festival. The illustrations capture the spirit of the festival.

Stewart and Illustrator Christiane Engel

This book is available at the Round Rock Public Library.

Kids can travel the globe sensing the occasion by the beautiful illustration showcasing the costumes, foods, and dance. The book also offers cultural context, useful vocabulary words, photographs, and instructions for festive projects.

What Do You Celebrate? Holidays and Festivals Around the World by Author Whitney

As we celebrate Holi, there are several festivals that people celebrate around the world. From Chinese New Year’s to France’s Bastille Day. The book introduces 14 special celebrations from around the world, showing the fun traditions.

WHEN SPRING COMES by Author Kevin Henkes, Illustrator Laura Dronzek Spring break is the long-awaited break for children. The award-winning, bestselling husband-and-wife teamed up to create this beautiful book. A fun way to introduce the concept of spring.

OFFICE OF POLICE OVERSIGHT

grab this book to get into the Holi mood. A

The book showcases the transition from winter to spring. The world transforms when spring comes. The brown grass turns green, a seed starts growing and the mounds of snow shrink, but for all this, you have to wait. Col-

orful illustrations showcase the small things that happen just as Spring arrives.

This book is available at the Round Rock Public Library. If you are looking for more useful recourses for your children visit my website www.storiesbyshachi.com. You can also join me for a Bilingual story time at the Round Rock Public Library, every fourth Tuesday of the month at 10:30 A.M.

Influence Austin Police Accountability:

JOIN THE COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW COMMISSION Involvement in the CPRC requires 10-15 hours per month on review of case investigations, community meetings, and trainings. ATXPoliceOversight

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Austin South Asian | March 2020

Austin’s Geeta Bajaj In Hometown For World Premiere Of Golden Arm At SXSW 2020

(Continued From Page 01) Then imagine seeing the hard work bear fruit with a move to LA to produce a film and then be back in Austin with that film becoming a spotlight at SXSW festival.

them. They continue to believe in my future,” said Geeta, all excited with the global attention through the festival. At UT Austin, Geeta Bajaj majored in Education with a minor in film. She worked

This is the story of young Geeta Bajaj (26) who has always followed a creative path with the support by her Austinite parents. Austin’s Geeta Bajaj, producer of woman driven buddy comedy Golden Arm will be in Austin for its world premiere at SXSW 2020. Her dad, Chandrajeet Bajaj, professor –computer scientist at UT Austin and mom Sonia Bajaj always encouraged their daughter in her creative endeavors. Geeta is their middle child and the only daughter. “This is my first feature in my hometown… totally excited; my parents are investors in Golden Arm. Couldn’t have done it without

at Ralph Smyth Enterainment locally on the side (www.ralphsmyth.com). Russell Wayne Groves in the company took Geeta under his wing, guiding her along the way. “He gave me the opportunity to spread my wings,” said Geeta, grateful for the oppor-

tunity. Geeta spent 2 ½ to 3 years in Los Angeles working on film projects. In 2018, she took on Golden Arm as her first production. “Over the moon to be able to live my life and grateful and constantly challenging myself,” said Geeta, who loves coming to work every day and is already working on her next project.

ey and enjoy it.

Golden Arm shows a badass world where women are beautiful badass beings who arm wrestle for mon-

Melanie is baker in a small town, struggling with debt and a major case of the blahs caused by her failed marriage. When her ex demands half her grandmother’s bakery in

their divorce, Melanie has no other choice but to take her best friend Danny’s advice to train for the Ladies Arm Wrestling Championship and its prize of $15,000. This could work if Melanie can toughen up and take down the reigning champ, a complete hulk who is also Danny’s arch nemesis, Brenda “The Bonecrusher” Smith! “It’s been great to be able to have strong females leading the charge,” said Geeta who worked with female director Maureen Baroocha who incidentally also has South Asian ties (being half Pakistani – half Irish). Geeta Bajaj will be in Austin during SXSW (Mar 12 to Mar 18) with the two lead actors, executive producers, and writers. Watch Golden Arm at Alamo Drafthouse Lamar (1120 S Lamar Blvd) even without a SXSW badge by lining up ½ hour before at the box office for a movie ticket. March 15 - 8 to 9:30 p.m. March 17 - 3:15 to 4: 45 p.m.

Census 2020 - Every One Must Be Counted (Continued From Page 01)

or education will be asked.

Every decade our nation conducts U.S. Census, A process mandated in our constitution. As in the past, anyone who resides on US soil must to be counted for upcoming Census 2020 - the count is independent of one’s citizen or resident status. Not only is it a constitutional requirement, it is also our duty. Purpose of Census

It is important to know that it is protected Census workers take oath and violation of it would lead to a substantial fine or jail term.

A. Disbursement of Resources – annually over $675 Billion are distributed to local communities on per capita basis. B. Helps Communities provide services such as education, roads, hospitals, public works and other areas that affect citizen’s quality of life. Helps pubic safety and emergency preparedness. C. Enables businesses plan jobs creation based on manpower and skills availability. D. Residents can use census data for civic engagement community initiative and involvement, consumer advocacy and ensuring proper legislation and legislative seat allocation All data is to be kept confidential. Individual or familial information such your ethnicity

You will not be asked your citizenship or resident status. Nationwide participation in Census 2010 led to the realization to the confirmation of the significant growth and presence of the Asian American Community. This increased visibility may have drawn

the attention of public institutions and legislators and been a motivator in greater civic engagement, reflected in increasing number of public offices held by Asians Americans. The 2020 Census and the Austin Asian Complete Count Committee (AACCC) Since 2010 our community has grown significantly. In order to ensure that each member of our community is counted here in Travis and Williamson counties where substantial Asian American community resides, AACCC has been formed to partner with Census Bureau. Several Asian organization and individuals have joined AACCC to support the Census count. While Census Bureau has ma-de it convenient for people fill soft copy forms via email, other options would be available such as phone call or even paper forms. AACCC participant will be available to help with any question individuals may have in-

cluding language needs Key Dates and Information – www.2020census.gov Aug 2019 - Address Canvassing ensure every address Jan 2020 - Start Count in Remote Area (Alaska) April 2020 - Census Day everyone invited to participate in Census (Your response can be via e-mail, phone or mail) May June July 2020 - Census Canvassers go door to door to ensure count December 31, 2020—Census Bureau reports to the President the population count and the apportionment of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives to each state. 2021—Initial 2020 Census data are made available to the public on census.gov. March 2021 - Redistricting Count to States For Volunteering or Information contact: Alice Yi – aliceyi@me.com Sumit DasGupta – dasgupta1974@gmail. com Suchitra Gururaj – suchi.gururaj@austin. utexas.edu Ashwin Ghatalia - ashwin_ghatalia@ yahoo.com

Austin South Asian | March 2020

3 Ways To Weather The 2020 Tax Season

Over half of U.S. adults say financial stress negatively impacted their personal health and work performance in 2018, according to new research from Lincoln Financial Group.

mon tax documents (e.g., W-2s, 1099s and mortgage interest state-

For the 2019 tax year, the standard deduction is $12,200 for individu-

Maximum Simplified Employee Pension IRA contributions of $56,000 for 2019 can be made any time prior to the tax filing deadline, including extensions.

When it comes to tax season, preparation is key to easing anxiety, according to experts. “Tax season can be stressful for many people, but it’s also an opportunity to strengthen your financial plan,” says Michael Corr, chief estate and business planning strategist, Lincoln Financial Advisors, National Planning Team. “The good news is that there are some simple ways to manage the process.” To weather the 2020 tax season, Corr offers these tips: Get the 411 Whether preparing your own tax return or paying a professional, good organization saves time and money. In addition to collecting the com-

$6,000 ($7,000 if you’re over 50) on the 2019 income tax return.

Or, if you participate in a high deductible health plan, you may be eligible to contribute to a health savings account with pre-tax dollars through April 15.

For the 2019 tax year, the contribution limit is $3,500 if you’re single and $7,000 for families, with an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution for those 55 or older. Use Technology Embrace these technological advances to reduce tax preparation and filing burdens: (Continued On Page 06)

PARADISE RIGHT HERE TOO ments), you should gather receipts, evidence of contributions to charities and 529 plans, and basic information on assets sold during 2019. Also consider milestones that impact taxes, such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, adoption and sale of a home. Organizing this information is the first step toward ensuring timely filing. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act significantly increased the standard deduction for federal tax purposes.

als and $24,400 for married couples filing jointly. This higher deduction amount means many taxpayers won’t itemize deductions, thereby simplifying tax return preparation. Be Proactive Consider what actions you can take prior to the end of tax season to lessen its financial burden. For example, if you qualify and act prior to April 15, you may deduct contributions to an IRA up to

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It’s fine to have a paradise above For all of us, after life on earth here. It does never mean that we shall not live, On this planet, like in paradise there. With fellow beings if we truly share, All that has been provided by Nature, Kith and kin, health and time, if taken care, Can witness a paradise right here too. Keeping temptations and vices afar Walking on the path virtuous, though hard

If we could lead life without any fear, Can prepare a paradise right here too. With good will and affection all over, If we spread love and peace every where, Remaining thankful to our Creator, Can put forth a paradise right here too. Then this paradise on our planet earth Would be like God’s and angels’ abode too. (arunsunderraj@gmail.com)

Austin South Asian | March 2020

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Austin South Asian | March 2020

What Does A Recession Mean For You? 6 Ways To Protect Your Future

Financial experts agree that no one is completely immune from risk when a recession occurs, and that an economic downturn can have a significant impact on your personal and financial situation.

ahead of a recession. Younger investors may be better positioned to maintain a higher-risk portfolio

it as necessary to minimize risk in your asset allocation while keeping your long-term goals in mind.

However, they also agree that it is important to avoid panicking and to remain focused on your longterm financial plans and strategies. When thinking about what a recession means for you and your future, here are six things to consider: • Think about how a recession could affect your retirement plan and whether your savings and investments need to be adjusted. Does your financial strategy appropriately take into account your age, risk tolerance, target retirement timeline and desired lifestyle post-retirement? If you are close to retiring, you may want to make more conservative investments

through a downturn and may even have opportunities to buy up more securities while prices are low. • Take time to evaluate your entire investment portfolio, rebalancing

cash flow, with an eye toward identifying any expenses or other spending that can be proactively trimmed to free up money now, or that can be cut in the future if you feel a financial pinch. Consider holding off on major purchases or delaying travel until the market improves. You may even want to redirect some of your savings -perhaps your monthly contribution to a child’s college fund -- to boost your cash reserves.

You might also consider loss harvesting in taxable accounts to take advantage of potential tax savings or boost your tax refund.

• Think about upcoming changes in your personal life, planned or otherwise. Are you having a baby? Sending a child off to college? Do you or a family member have any health concerns that may require additional care? Consider how these developments could impact your finances and the risks they might introduce.

• Closely review your budget and

• Similarly, take stock of your pro-

fessional situation. Your job likely provides your biggest source of income. If you are not sure that your job would be secure in the event of a recession, update your resume and think about where and how you might begin to search for a new one if you are laid off. • A Certified Financial Planner professional can help you evaluate the current state of your finances, understand the potential impact of a recession and devise a course of action that keeps you on track to achieve your goals. To find a CFP professional near you, visit www. letsmakeaplan.org. Talking to a financial advisor now is a smart investment in protecting your future. Don’t wait to make a recession plan. By taking proactive steps now, you can better safeguard you and your family’s financial future. (StatePoint)

A Doctor’s Common-Sense Approach To Heartburn Relief Indigestion is on the rise worldwide and is especially prevalent in the U.S. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, 60 million Americans suffer from heartburn at least once a month. While it’s a common issue for older people due to aging, it’s now a growing problem for younger adults as well, who report increasing bouts of indigestion, upset stomach, and anxious stomach, which may be linked to stress and hectic lifestyles

many contributing factors, whatever the cause, it’s uncomfortable and important to manage.” Suffering from indigestion and heartburn? Dr. Redcross recommends a few simple measures that may help you find relief. • When embarking on a new diet to improve health and wellness, the

Keto diets in particular can trigger heartburn as the diet requires upping the intake of fat, which takes longer to leave the stomach.

foods you know that sit well, attempt to keep a regular eating schedule, and wear loose, comfortable clothing.

If you are starting a new diet, it can be helpful to change your diet more gradually.

• Eating too fast or too much can also contribute to indigestion. Slow down and savor your food. Also, consider consuming smaller portions at a time.

• Indigestion from travel is common, as being away from home of-

“When the acid in your stomach rises into your esophagus, that’s when you know you have heartburn,” says Dr. Ken Redcross, a board-certified physician in internal medicine and author of “Bond: The 4 Cornerstones of a Lasting and Caring Relationship with Your Doctor.” He explains that heartburn is more than just a minor discomfort, and it can impact daily life. “Heartburn can cause chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and even interfere with sleep. While there are

• Try to incorporate some movement into your daily routine, particularly after meals, as lying down directly after eating can be a source of indigestion. Exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which is another important factor in managing indigestion.

last thing you may expect to suffer from are digestive issues.

ten means eating unfamiliar foods and keeping odd hours.

But a sudden change to one’s diet is frequently the source of heartburn.

When on the go, (or all the time) stick mostly with tried-and-true

• Know your triggers. For some, certain foods like citrus, spices, fatty food, and alcoholic or caffeinated beverages can trigger symptoms. Knowing your specific triggers can help you avoid them. • Be prepared to address symptoms when they strike. Indigestion sufferers with a bloated or upset stomach can find plant-based relief with

travel-friendly Boiron Acidil tablets that melt in your mouth without water. Easy to take before or after a meal, they work with the body to target occasional heartburn, acid indigestion, bloating, or upset stomach. This homeopathic medicine can help get your body back into balance naturally. Claims for Acidil are based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. They are not FDA evaluated. More information about Acidil and other homeopathic medicines for gastrointestinal relief can be found by visiting BoironUSA.com/digestives. For a happy, healthy belly, learn your indigestion triggers and be prepared to manage symptoms. (StatePoint)

How To Tell If You Have Severe Asthma

While the majority of the more than 25 million Americans living with asthma enjoy active, healthy lives, for others, severe

have severe asthma, a type of asthma that affects approximately 5-10 percent of those with the condition. Increasing the risk of death, illness, and depression, and limiting the ability to work or go to school, severe asthma is dangerous, and is responsible for 50 percent of all asthma healthcare costs. Control is the key and is attainable even if you do have severe asthma. Is your asthma under control? To find out, start by visiting the American Lung Association website, where you can take the My Asthma Control Assessment and access a downloadable summary of its findings to take to your next doctor’s appointment.

symptoms are part of daily life, despite using high dose asthma medicines and avoiding triggers. Does this sound familiar? If so, you could

Visit Lung.org/severe-asthma for more information, as well as to access questions that you can ask your doctor for a more productive conversation. Better understanding your asthma is the first step to taking better control of your symptoms. (StatePoint)

Tips For Students & Teachers To Get Through The Midyear Slump There comes a certain point during every school year when students and educators alike are at risk of suffering from a midyear slump. One solution to staying motivated? Adding some color and vibrancy to every-

day tools used in the classroom. Here are five ideas for doing so: • A change of scenery has the power to inspire. Students can revamp their lockers and desks at home with new decorations, artwork and organizational tools, like a color-coded bulletin board. Teachers can make the same updates to classrooms to give students and themselves a fresh perspective. • Add a fun splash of color to music-making. With Casiotone CT-S200 keyboards, you can select from vibrant red or white, in addition to the standard black. The ability to hook up to any portable music player so that

the user can play any music downloaded to the device offers versatility in lesson planning, practice and performance. • Any calculator can be easily customized with skins, but if you want to keep it simple, some models are stylish and colorful right out of the box. One such example is the fx-9750GII. Available in black, blue or pink, this can be a great way to give young mathematicians a fun and useful tool to see them through finals, college entrance exams and more. • If you didn’t purchase new accessories like backpacks, gym bags or laptop cases at the beginning of the school year, maybe it’s time for a refresh. Slick new carrying essentials can give a student greater confidence while traveling from home to the classroom, and help brighten the school day. • From quotes and messages greeting students each morning to building out lessons with pictures from around the globe, a projector designed to work well in the classroom, such as the Casio Ultra Short Throw projector XJ-U351, can be a versatile tool for teachers looking to liven things up or engage students in a lively conversation. By embracing colorful tools, students and teachers can work their way out of the midyear slump for a strong finish to the school year. (StatePoint)

Austin South Asian | March 2020

HC4A Celebrates 10th Anniversary Successes And 10 years Of Giving! Gulshan Singh, 2/22/20 HC4A (Hindu Charities for America) celebrated 10 years of ‘serve where you live,’ at the Asian American Resource Center, Austin, on Saturday.

“There is poverty here too. I thought it would be so great if the

says Kotecha. So HC4A was established in 2010 with the mission to ‘bridge income disparity through education.’

The founder, Harish Kotecha, spoke about his journey as an Indian refugee ousted from Uganda by dictator Idi Amin, in 1972.

Several hundred volunteers have since been inspired to raise over a million dollars.

His education and determination rewarded him with a successful career in the US. After his retirement, he engaged in several social service activities and felt the need to give back.

Indian community worked as one to serve those in need in the US,”

Borscht Belt.

Two salient events help raise funds: the HC4A Gala and Bollywood Meets

The latter is organized in partnership with the Jewish community; leading Bollywood dance schools in Austin like Monsoon Dance and Agni lend the glitz and glamor to a social-spirited night. Over the years, the funds have helped provide 10,600 students with school supplies and over 550 vocational training scholarships. Soon this successful model motivated them to start chapters in Southern California, Houston, and Dallas. “Indian community is very successful, and we all came for one purpose, education, that was our driving factor.

We know the struggle, so we are ready to support the cause for education,” says Vaishali Tendolkar, Secretary of HC4A. In 2017, US President, Donald Trump, honored Harish Kotecha with the President’s “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Teri Benge, who was pursuing a degree in hospitality management at ACC, while keeping a full-time job, writes in her thank you note to HC4A that, “I will always remember this gesture of kindness and will one day, pay this forward by helping students achieve their goals, just as you have helped me.”

How To Talk To Your Children About Tough Money Matters (Continued From Page 01) They recommend talking to your children about financial concerns, keeping in mind that the level of detail shared should be based on your child’s age. Preschool and Elementary Age Experts suggest limiting financial discussion with very young children to the basics.

If the economy is struggling, you might tell them that this can happen when businesses spend more money than they have and have to pay back what they borrowed, which means those businesses don’t have money to spend on other things, like employees.

Psychologists emphasize the need to be honest, but reassuring, letting children know that tough financial times are only temporary and that you will always provide them with everything they need.

You might also explain that when money is tighter, they may need to wait a little longer to get certain items such as new toys.

Children in this age group are old enough for you to explain what financial terms mean and why the economy doesn’t always perform well.

2020 Tax Season

(Continued From Page 06)

turns for several years.

• Whether self-preparing or hiring a professional, tax information from documents filed with the IRS (W-2s, 1099s. etc.) can be downloaded directly into tax-prep software, so be sure to access electronic versions of these documents.

Taxpayers who e-file typically receive acknowledgement that their returns have been filed and get their refunds faster than those who paper file.

• Online banking makes it easy to manipulate account information and organize data about relevant expenses paid during the year, like estimated tax payments, medical and tuition payments and business expenses. • The IRS has offered the opportunity for electronic filing of tax re-

“Tweens” and Teens

You might also provide an over-

You could also engage your kids in family budget decisions, particularly should you feel a financial pinch. If they want to go on a vacation or buy that new video game system, ask for their ideas on how to save up the money. If you can’t afford to eat out as often, let them pick a favorite restaurant for a special monthly or quarterly meal. You might also consider encour-

Experts say that at this age, families should be open and straightforward when discussing finances. In addition to helping college-age kids understand a change in the economy or other financial development, explain what it could mean for your family’s financial situation and whether it could impact them. Tell them how you’ve been spending and saving, describe struggles you’ve faced, and outline the steps you’ll take to shore up finances. You can also help them build their own budgets and saving plans. Being honest about financial mistakes you’ve made can help your children avoid them in the future. For more tips on teaching kids about money, visit letsmakeaplan.org.

More information about financial planning and taxes can be found by visiting lfg.com. From market volatility to managing debt, there are many causes of financial stress today. However, with some prudent strategies, you can greatly reduce your tax-related anxiety. (StatePoint)

College Kids

view of how credit works, introducing terms such as interest, risk and liability.

aging older children to get jobs so they can earn their own spending money.

Explaining your family’s financial situation will not only help your children make sense of what’s happening, it will provide them with confidence and a foundation of financial knowledge that will carry them into adulthood. (StatePoint)

Austin South Asian | March 2020

A Ripple Effect In The Sky – What Volunteering At TCF Did For Me

By Sumaiya Malik This year I got into UT Austin for graduate studies. Surprised and thrilled, I shared the news with all my close friends. Many told me how they too had aspired to go back to school but had been unable to. I wondered what was different in my life that made me take the plunge. We were all stay home moms with college going kids, a life of comfort, charity, some volunteering and stability. There was one difference. I had been volunteering consistently to raise funds for education through TCF since 2012. Six years of annual planning and execution had trained me to organize and that had a ripple effect in my life. Let me explain. In 2012, my friends and I organized the first TCF Gala in Austin to raise funds for TCF, an organization that was known to disclose all their financials while building schools in Pakistan for the underprivileged young girls and boys and provide them with quality education. We, a group of about eleven friends, brought different set of skills to the table. Some people did the actual

accounts, others found the venue, some took charge of the catering, still others entertainment and I got the ticketing and seating of guests. We estimated about 200 people would come.

about entertainment, stage setup, catering options, how to do research for new ideas, and I also learned of inspiring people and their stories when they made keynote speakers for the gala.

That year, the turnout was phenomenal. We filled the venue to capacity, raised funds, and tickets

Things started flowing in a pattern second time around. We all knew our part. New volunteers joined.

were a sellout. It wasn’t flawless though. We handled friction with diplomacy. At the de-briefing, we talked about the dos and don’t and made plans for the next year. No one told me what to do, but we all shared information. I learned

Some felt they needed to step back. The wheel kept turning. By the third year, we had funds for two schools that were on their way in Pakistan and a chance to work on endowment. Our teamwork was bearing visible results! The excite-

ment was hard to contain. As the years went by, my family got trained as well. They all would make room for the gala and ‘let mama do her 9 p.m. conference call with her local TCF team’. I was in the house and available if the kids needed me (thank God for the mute button). My husband would even take charge of dinner for the children when I was busy those last few days before the gala. Even my parents who lived nearby would give me ideas and feel my excitement. Whatever I learned somehow got stored in me and would resurface when I needed it. Unbeknownst to me it began to refine my thinking. I remember the year we switched from face to face tickets to online sales. I learned about companies that were providing the facility (something that TCF now provides itself). I also started writing standardized emails that volunteers would send out to their donors, and edit other peoples writing as well.

Hollywood Master Of Suspense Film Director Shyamalan At SXSW 2020 By Sumaiya Malik If horror and suspense are your kind of genre, you must have heard of Hollywood screenwriter, director, and producer M. Night Shyamalan (49) who has captured the attention of audiences around the world for two decades, creating films that have grossed more than $3 billion worldwide. His thrillers include The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable, Signs, The Village, The Visit, Spilt, and Glass. Along with that he is a family man who prefers working in the city where he lives so he can also focus on his kids. Shyamalan began making films at a young age in his hometown in Pennsylvania. During his final year at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, he wrote and shot the film, Praying with Anger,

which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival. In 1999, Shyamalan wrote and directed the hit film The Sixth Sense starring Bruce Willis. The film received a total of six Academy Award nominations, in-

cluding Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. Shyamalan has since been knows as a master of suspense. The director is best known for suspense comic book super hero 19year trilogy: proto-superhero drama Unbreakable (2000), split personality thriller Split (2017) and Glass (2019) with Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson and James McAvoy. Glass has grossed almost 250M worldwide. Shyamalan is known for cameos in his films. He tries to make them inconspicuous so that they don’t draw the audience totally out of the film, but gives them just enough attention to perhaps make the viewer realize that it’s a film, something many viewers are thankful for as they get totally

drawn into the suspense and thrill of Shyamalan’s movies. Shyamalan talked about his family in an interview with Rollingstone Magazine in 2018. “I can help my daughter with her French test, and I’m looking at locations today,” he says. “I can do both.” (Interview with Rolling Stones Magazine 2018) The director/producer also devotes his time to the philanthropic projects of his Shyamalan foundation cofounded with his wife, Dr. Bhavna Shyamalan, in 2001. Shyamalan will be teaching a masterclass at SXSW and knowing his fame there will be a long line of film buffs and young film people outside. SXSW Master Class March 13 – 2 to 3 p.m. Convention Center, 500 E Cesar Chavez

By 2014, the word had got out that I could write and edit. Bala Kumar, the editor of Austin South Asian, offered that I write for their monthly magazine about South Asian news. I accepted and began submitting five or six articles a month and when it was time for the TCF gala, I would be writing about it at least two or three months in advance as the paper encouraged non-profit philanthropy. Then came AADI. With a skillset of how to organize, a friend and I co-founded Austin Arts and Drama Initiative, a non-profit platform that would be registered as a 501-c(3) for the promotion of South Asian Arts in Austin (AADI). AADI was team of eight friends. Two base rules I had learned at TCF made AADI a success. First, disclose all accounts and second if everyone is volunteering they should all be equals just as I would feel when I volunteered for TCF. As my years in TCF grew, so did my confidence. In 2017, my first freelance work was published in a local mainstream newspaper. When I sent it to the paper, I knew my work was worthy. If that paper did not take it, I would try somewhere else. It so turned out that they did take it and so began my freelance work. It is 2020 now - the year I will start attending graduate program in journalism at UT Austin. I am comfortable with multitasking, juggling my different roles and compartmentalizing. I know how to zone in on the most important task at hand. I treat my family and friends as a team. I become a support when needed and ask for help when I need it. I trust my abilities and accept that things may not go as planned but if your heart is in the right place, it will all work out. Thank you TCF for preparing me by providing the opportunity to consistently volunteer and for giving me the push I needed to fly. For more information about volunteering go to TCF Austin Chapter Facebook page. More on: http://www.TCFUSA.org

Austin South Asian | March 2020

How To Catch Pakistani Film “I’ll Meet You There” At SXSW 2020 With Just A Movie Ticket By Sumaiya Malik Most people don’t know that local followers can watch movies that are a part of SXSW if they go to the theater half hour ahead of the show. After the people with SXSW badges go in, one can purchase a movie ticket and watch the show. This is great news for the South Asian audience because they have a chance to see Pakistani film I’ll Meet You There” with seasoned Pakistani actor Mohammad Qavi Khan, Faran Tahir (Star Trek, Iron Man), and Nikita Tewani (Television series Divorce and Hit and Run), and directed by Pakistani American director/producer/ screenwriter Iram Parveen Bilal. And there are four shows! “I’ll Meet You There” entirely shot in New York City and Chicago is a family drama following the fatherdaughter journey of Majeed, a Chicago policeman, and Dua, his teenage ballerina daughter. Majeed goes undercover in a mosque for a special FBI co-assignment. Shortly after, Baba, Majeed’s long-estranged father, shows up unannounced from Pakistan. Majeed uses Baba as an excuse to reenter the mosque after a decade. Counter to his liking, Dua and Baba take to each other. Baba urges Dua to question her passion for dance in the name of religion. The family explores new truths until everything comes to a head in a surprise bait and switch by the FBI. The film is one of ten selected out of thousands of submissions at SXSW in narrative feature competition, said the director, Iram Parveen Bilal in a phone conversation with Austin South Asian. “I have always been troubled by the taboo of dance in Muslim culture,” said Bilal talking about the sexualization of dance and why she addressed it in the film along with the post 9/11 American Muslim experience. She shared how some characters in the film are inspired by her personal story and family, and how

she has had to contend with family members who thought dancing is sinful. She was keen to cast Mohammed

She was 1 of 15 directors invited to Cinefondation’s L’Atelier at Cannes 2019 for her feature project WAKHRI (ONE OF A KIND), based on a social media star in

veloping TV projects set in the US, UK and South Asia. Her past noted feature length works include Josh (Against The

Netflix and in the permanent selection at the US Library of Congress and The PhD Movie: Still in Grad School. There are four shows of the film. The premiere will draw in the bigger audience because of the arrival of key cast members. It is not confirmed if Qavi will be present as if he comes he will fly in from Pakistan. More on SXSW.com:

Qavi Khan for the role of the father and arranged for a special visa for him to fly in from Pakistan. When the seasoned actor showed apprehension about his Pakistani English accent, she reassured him that this would only play in his favor as she really wanted ‘mitti ki khushbu’ (essence of motherland) in his speech and Qavi’s whole demeanor would only authenticate his role. Raised in Nigeria and Pakistan, Bilal is a Physics Olympian turned filmmaker. In 2007, she formed Parveen Shah Productions, which is a global short and long form media production company that focuses on telling stories that matter - stories that elevate the human condition. Bilal initiated the Pakistani Oscar committee and is the founder of Pakistan’s first professional screenwriting lab (QALAMBAAZ). She is a Thomas J Watson, Women In Film, Film Independent and CAPE fellow and an active member of the Alliance of Women Directors and Film Fatales, both organizations vested for fair representation of female directors in the entertainment industry. An avid public speaker, activist and entrepreneur, Bilal is big on women’s empowerment and pushing herself in new directions. “Get uncomfortable now,” she is quoted to have said.

Pakistan. Bilal is currently actively looking to direct TV and is also de-

Grain) (available on Dailymotion. com), Pakistan’s first film to be on

Mar 16 2:45 p.m. to 4:15 – Alamo Lamar Mar 17 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m – Violet Crown Mar 17 11:30 p.m. to 1 p.m – Violet Crown Mar 20 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Alamo Lamar

South Asia Comes To Austin At Indie Meme Film Festival 2020 By Sumaiya Malik Austin Chronicle called Indie Meme film festival (IMFF) a passport to South Asia in 2016 for a reason. The film festival has annually brought feature and short films from selected countries from South Asia to Austin with the purpose of highlighting and humanizing its people through interaction with filmmakers and actors. IMFF has encouraged discussion to make a social change and the effect is visible. The festival now attracts viewers from all walks of life and not just South Asians. “This is the fifth year for the festival with a huge line up,” said Animon Jose, the current president of Indie Meme Board. This year’s showcase films are from USA, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Afghanistan, Burma, Denmark, Pakistan and India with some North America and Texas premieres on the table. In sync with the times and with the mission of Indie Meme, IMFF2020

will showcase films.

‘women-centric’

According to Jose, opening night is the North American Premiere of Tale of Rising Rani, a timely movie regarding women empowerment where a girl stands against traditions of a village ‘but not totally. ‘ The film reflects the ‘Khari Boli’ dialect of UP in India. The festival has a soft opening on Thursday April 2nd, with youth shorts submitted by high schoolers and undergrads. The finale that night, a film from Afghanistan called The Orphan-

age, shows pre and post Soviet occupation. The film focuses on 16-year-olds. Opening night on Friday, April 3rd, has big fanfare and red carpet. Director Prakash Saini – director Tale of Rising Rani, Sapna Bhawani, film maker –Sindustan (documentary), Priya Krishnaswamy – director of Baaram (Indian Tamil), and Tenzin Phuntsog filmmaker Rituals of Resistance (Tibetan/US documentary), and Taniya Romero, filmmaker of short film Dholi will be present along with media and sponsors. (Continued On Page 13)

To Advertise In AustinSouth Asian Call 512-828-6709

Austin South Asian | March 2020

Children’s Book Series - Adventures Of Chee And Dae - Available On Amazon

By Sumaiya Malik - @sumaiyasaidthis Chee is a mischievous cheeky little chimp and loves to play football. Little did he know that some rain and a slippery mudslide would take him to a new friend and exciting adventures.

Saniya Chughtai, the author of the series, was born in Karachi, Pakistan and has lived in Ireland since the 90’s. She wrote

lished five in the series. She is now working on a new kids series Tach and the Cosanthor.

She has also ventured into film, making a short documentary titled “The Story of the Storyteller”.

Besides being an author, Saniya has appeared on Design shows such as “Showhouse” on I r e l a n d ’s national television network RTÉ, for several seasons.

This won the best short documentary at the GUTech short film category at the Muscat International Film Festival 2016 in Oman.

That’s when he meets Dae, the lovely dolphin with whom he travels across the ocean and visits many exotic lands! Adventures of Chee and Dae is the first of an adorable book series that tells an intriguing story through the eyes of two adorable animal characters, Chee and Dae who embark on a fun-filled adventure meeting animated characters in exciting hidden places in a land of makebelieve touching concepts like respect of elders, teamwork and tolerance within an easy-to-read captivating stories where good prevails and young ones are able to develop their imagination. Think Magic Tree House but for 6 to 11 years.

The Adventures of Chee and Dae nine years ago and since then, pub-

jlis design.

She won the People’s choice award in I N D E X exhibition, Dubai for the contemporary Ma-

We reached out to Saniya Chughtai, who is now settled in Dubai talked about the stories of Chee and Dae: 1. Your high profile career is marked by many accomplishments. How did you realize that you want to publish a children’s book?

always remain close to our hearts.

Animon Jose spoke highly of Bombay Rose, an animation film by female director Getanjali Rao.

IMFF 2020 brings 8 Countries, 12

Bengali, Tibetan, Burmese, Urdu and Sindhi), 22 features, documentaries, and shorts, 6 filmmakers in

Trailer shows HD quality animation of a colorful palate and a story that touches love between two youths of different faiths in India.

Fiction features like Indian Namdev Bhau and Pakistani Jirga (2019), Turup, A Death in the Gunj, Dhanak, Hotel Salvation, Khapal, The Last Color and Documentaries like Abu (Pakistan), Gunga Pehelwan, and shorts like Dandekar Makes a Sandwich and Rasika Mathur: Truth Teller will

Languages (English, Dari, Russian, Hindi, Tamil, Sinhalese, Assamese,

attendance and 5 US Premieres.

The endangered animals that push the story forward are a coincidence. Examples are Shishi, the red panda from the ‘Ishcra Bochra’, Coba, the manatee, Mato, the stick insect and Dhiz the Liz, the desert lizard. 4. Is The Adventures of Chee and Dae series a part of any curriculum?

2. Tell us how you decided to put a glossary and a map in Chee and Dae adventures.

5. Is your new children’s hurling book, Tach and the Cosanthor in any way related to Chee and Dae?

With a past track record of only sifting out the best and making a social impact, the audience waits with abated breath what is in store this year. Indie Meme Film Festival 2020 from Thursday, April 2 to Sunday, April 5 will again be at the AFS Cinema, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752. Sponsors include Austin Chronicle, HEB, Cornerstone Architects and Austin PBS.

A trip to IMFF past films page takes one down memory lane to previous years.

3. What endangered and exotic animal species have you introduced in the series? Why?

I have always been a storyteller and one day during a storytelling session in our neighborhood playground, a young girl asked if the stories were real. I said yes! I went back home and started writing. Within 2 months, the first book was published. Ever since, the author in me has awakened and I haven’t stopped writing.

South Asia Comes To Austin At Indie Meme Film Festival 2020 (Continued From Page 12)

Before the first book went to print I did a few focus groups with school kids. They suggested the glossary and map, as there were many new places and characters. It has become an integral part of the brand.

Soon! I am in conversation with a few educators and developing a workshop focusing on how the teacher can use a scenario or character for social and emotional learning. This is very exciting!

Chee and Dae are a separate series, though aimed at the same age group-6 to 11years. Tach and the Cosanthor is based on a wee little turtle who learns to tackle his fears through the ancient warrior sport of hurling. 6. There are Arabic words in the first adventure, was this deliberate? I introduced Arabic in the first adventure by naming some of the characters and places in Arabic. so that the readers could learn a few words from the rich language. The best education is edutainment! 7. What message do you have for your young readers? For parents?

Others are being finalized as we go to print. The festival is funded in part by the City of Austin Cultural Arts Division.

‘Imagination!’ For kids, hang on to that magic word forever! For parents, give the child this magic word.

Tickets are available at Indiememe. org range from $55 to $85.

Adventures of Chee and Dae are available on Amazon and on TheWadiTribe.com in paperback and Kindle.

Austin South Asian | March 2020

Kids Corner GAMA

By Varun Greater Austin Malayalee Association (GAMA) celebrated Indian Independence day as part of Game day with the Malayalee community on Jan 26th 2020 at Cedar Park Recreation Center, Cedar Park, Texas. The event hosted exciting games for kids and adults and the community turnout was great. Games included Chess, Sukoku, Cards, Carroms, etc. This year we introduced 3 new events: Rubik’s Cube for Kids, Arm Wrestling for Men and Independence day Quiz for Kids which were well received.

Vasundhara Varadarajan 8 years

The Adventures Of Randy & Square Kid

Abhiveer Annoji

CHILDREN ARTICLES Email Us Your Articles To Print

info@austin southasian. com

Kids were extremely impressive and fought a series of very closely contested matches with mind-bogglingly fast completion times for Rubik’s cube competition. Kids showed tremendous enthusiasm for the Independence day quiz which ended up with two consecutive tie breaker rounds to declare both as winners. People of all ages enjoyed different games. Winners were awarded with trophies by GAMA Board of Directors. The winners of GAMA 2020 are: Chess (Kids) Champion: Julian Joseph Runner Up: Ronav Sukumaran Chess (Adults) Champion: Joseph Simendy Runner Up: Prajeesh Das Rubik’s Cube: Champion: Shasvat Karnavar Runner Up: George Vipin Thayyil Sudoku(Kids 12 and Under) Champion: Rohan Nambiar Runner Up: Aryan Varun Sudoku (kids 12-18) Champion: Gautham Sanil Runner up: Aryan Chirayath Sudoku(Ladies): Champion: Sajna Sreejith Runner Up: Nisha Mathew Carroms (Gents) Champion: Gokul Sivadas Runner Up: Sreekant Nair Carroms (Ladies) Champion: Nisha Mathew Runner up: Sajna Sreejith Cards 28: Champion: Manesh Sasidharan / Vinod Chirayath / Tom Eappen Shopith Shylarajan / Jiss George / Arun Mohan Arm Wrestling: Champion: Shopith Shylarajan Runner Up: Vivek Modi

Austin South Asian | March 2020

5TH INDIE MEME FILM FESTIVAL

MEMBERS

NON-MEMBERS

ALL ACCESS FESTIVAL BADGE

$65

$80

FESTIVAL WRISTBANDS

$40

$55

$10-12

$12-15

Includes ALL screenings starting April 2nd, priority seating, opening night party with all the filmmakers in attendance, closing night party & award announcement Includes Access to ALL films

www.indiememe.org/imff-2020 APRIL 2-5, 2020

SINGLE FILM TICKETS

Includes Access to Short Films clubbed with the Feature/Documentary

**Please note: schedule subject to change, updated schedule will be published online www.indiememe.org/imff-2020**

All screenings are at: AFS CINEMA, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd and all films have ENGLISH SUBTITLES

THURSDAY APRIL 2

SOFT OPENING IMFF2020 5:30 PM - 6:15 PM YOUTH SHORTS PROGRAM

6:15 PM - 8:30 PM THE ORPHANAGE

(Denmark, Afghanistan | Fiction | Drama |1hr 30min | Dari, Russian, Hindi)

US Premiere

(US | Austin | English)

Set in late 1980s, 15 year old Qodrat was brought to the Soviet Orphanage. He is a big Bollywood fan and he daydreams himself into some of his favorite movie scenes. But in Kabul the political situation is changing. Qodrat and all the children want to defend their home. Inspired by true events. Skype QA with filmmaker Shahrbanoo Sadat

Filmmakers in attendance

6:15 PM Glitch

(Short Film | India | 14m | Hindi, English)

Elephantbird

(Short Film | Afghanistan | 14m | Dari)

FRIDAY APRIL 3 OPENING NIGHT: Film Screening & Party 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM RED CARPET, AFS Cinema Lobby 9:15 PM - 11:30 PM Opening Night Party @TBD

6:30 PM - 9:00 PM TALE OF RISING RANI

(India | Fiction | Drama | 2hr 2min | Hindi)

North American Premiere

An inspiring story of a young girl named Rani who broke all the societal norms and paved the way for her loved ones.

QA with filmmaker Prakash Saini in attendance

SATURDAY APRIL 4 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

12:40 PM - 2:45 PM

(Short Film | US | 15m | Hindi, English)

(Short Film | India | 15m | Hindi)

(INDIA | Documentary | 58 mins | Hindi)

(India | Fiction | Drama, Comedy | 1hr 38 min | Hindi)

Forbidden Tikka Masala

AUNTY SUDHA and AUNTY RADHA Two sisters, Sudha and Radha, 86 and 93, have a near-magical existence in their village home in North India, along with their entourage of domestic help Skype QA with filmmaker Tanuja Chandra

The Booth

EEB ALLAY OOO! US Premiere

A young migrant battles hordes of monkeys in the heart of New Delhi as a contractual monkey repeller. Skype QA with filmmaker Prateek Vats

Austin South Asian | March 2020

5TH INDIE MEME FILM FESTIVAL 3:30 PM - 5:45 PM

6:30 PM - 8:40 PM

(Short Film | India | 14m 24s | Bengali)

(Short Film | India | 19m | Hindi)

(Srilanka | Fiction | Drama | 1hr 42 min | Sinhalese)

(India | Fiction | Drama | 1hr 30 min | Tamil)

Bouma

Maya

CHILDREN OF THE SUN

BAARAM

Texas Premiere

US Premiere

Stripped from nobility and forcibly married to an outcast by the monarchy, a noble woman fights to keep her dignity by rejecting to succumb to her destiny

Karuppasamy, a watchman, lives with his sister, Menmozhi, and her family in Tamil Nadu. Early one morning, Karuppasamy is involved in a hit-and-run accident and breaks his hip.

Skype QA with filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage

9:15 PM - 11:15 PM

QA with filmmaker Priya Krishnaswamy in attendance

Meal

(Short Film | India | 11m | Bengali)

AAMIS

(India | Fiction | Drama, Horror | 1hr 47 min | Assamese)

Two chaste lovers bow down to social taboos and repress their feelings, but doing so pushes them towards a horrific crime

Skype QA with filmmaker Bhaskar Hazarika

SUNDAY APRIL 5 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

1:15 PM - 3:00 PM

(Short Film | Pakistan | 15m | Urdu)

(Short Film | Burma | 27m | Burmese)

Kathakaar

BOMBAY ROSE

(India | Animated Feature | Drama, Romance | 1hr 33min | Hindi)

Bombay Rose is at heart a dark story, yet it can also shine brightly, dealing with heartbreak and hope, a perilous life in the slums of Mumbai in which death is always close by but a big-screen Bollywood escapist ending is equally only a cinema ticket away

Skype QA with filmmaker Gitanjali Rao

3:45 PM - 5:30 PM Dil Se Bol

(Short Film | US | 15m | English, Hindi)

QA with filmmaker Tania Romero in attendance

SINDHUSTAN

(India | Documentary | 1hr | Sindhi, English)

Texas Premiere

Sindhustan is the story of a person who tries to find her roots inside the core of her body through the eyes of different beholders of that period which exists only in the pages of history

Cobalt Blue

RITUALS OF RESISTANCE

(USA, Tibet | Documentary | 1hr 03 min | Tibetan, English)

Texas Premiere

Three generations of Tibetan refugees living in disparate parts of the world share their stories of resistance. The film explores the various approaches they take inspired by and in conflict with their Buddhist faith.

QA with filmmaker Tenzin Phuntsog in attendance

6:15 PM - 8:15 PM RAM PRASAD KI TEHRVI

(India | Fiction | Comedy, Drama | 1hr 45min | Hindi)

North American Premiere

Ramprasad's entire family gathers under one roof for 13 days after his death, to perform and observe the Hindu traditions and rituals called the tehrvi. During the course, the family's dynamics, politics, and insecurities unfold…

QA with cast member in attendance

QA with filmmaker Sapna Bhavnani in attendance

8:15 PM - 8:30 PM AWARDS CEREMONY

8:45 PM - 11:00 PM CLOSING NIGHT PARTY @TBD

Austin South Asian | March 2020

How To Improve Your Financial Health In 2020 (Continued From Page 01)

Pay down debt

You can get a free credit report from each of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies every year at annualcreditreport.com.

If you have credit card debt, you’re far from alone.

You may also want to consider signing up for a credit monitoring service like TransUnion Credit Monitoring.

The average credit card balance is $5,668, according to a recent TransUnion Industry Insights Report.

Take control by creating an actionable plan and good, consistent habits, like making all payments on time with at least the minimum payment.

with the lowest balance.

After budgeting for all minimum payments, focus on an account to

Before making any investment or financial decisions, you should consult a qualified attorney or financial advisor.

Many credit monitoring services alert you to any report changes as they happen, so they can be a smart addition to your plan to build and maintain your credit health. Once you’ve reviewed your credit report, along with your other financial information, it can seem overwhelming to know what to do next. But you don’t need to make big changes to have a big impact over time. Two common starting points are paying down debt and building a savings account.

Paying down debt can help lift what feels like a huge financial burden and reduce stress around major life decisions.

pay a little more Some people like account with the rate, while others

on if you can. to focus on the highest interest choose the one

Do what makes you comfortable and will motivate you to stick with your plan.

As you make progress in paying off debts, consider creating a savings goal. Schedule consistent automatic transfers to your savings account if you can, even if it’s a small amount at first.

An added benefit to paying down debt is that it can help your credit health.

It may not seem like much, but simply having a plan you’re taking action on will help you feel more confident about your financial future.

As you pay off credit card balances, it will decrease your credit utilization, which is a big factor in your credit scores.

Over time, your balance will grow, and you’ll enjoy more freedom and flexibility to handle life’s milestones.

Combine this with your consistent, on-time monthly payments, and you’ll have built a strong foundation for healthier credit.

Everyone is at a different place on their financial journey. What’s most important is to make a thoughtful, realistic plan and practice your new habits consistently.

For more tips on building your credit health, follow TransUnion on Instagram. Build your savings account

Hiccups may happen, but sticking with your plan will help you reach your credit and financial goals. (StatePoint)

Screen Time: What Research Says And What Parents Can Do (Continued From Page 01) • Devices Before Bed = No Sleep: It’s undisputed: when it comes to bedtime, devices are a big no-no. According to Hoag Medical Group, devices are known to emit a specific light wavelength that messes with sleep patterns.

in front of screens are at a greater risk for emotional issues and low self-esteem. This is in part because the more time kids are spending in front of screens, the less time they’re

The fix: Distract kids with fun, thought-provoking alternatives.

vice use. Handing a tablet over is easy enough, but getting it back?

Whether it’s a trip to the playground, board games or fort-building, putting screens away gives children’s imaginations time to

That’s when the struggle begins. According to research, giving kids a warning that screen time is coming to an end increases the chances that kids will fight back and defy their limitation. The fix: Setting clear limits on tech use is not just important, it’s essential. New technology can help you do so much more seamlessly than an idle warning.

Doctors recommend that kids don’t use devices for at least one hour before bed. The fix: At night, stick to the basics. Read to your children or tell them a bedtime story. When they’re old enough to read to themselves, encourage them to stick with the habit of curling up with a good book before light’s out. • Screen Time Linked to Depression and Anxiety: According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics, kids who spend a lot of time

Think apps that don’t lead kids into the next level of a game or give parents control over kids’ devices remotely.

spending doing healthy activities like socializing or being active. Additionally, certain content can increase anxiety, particularly social media.

flourish.

One such tool is a parental control app called OurPact. To start, parents sign up for a free account.

• Verbal ‘Warnings’ Do More Harm Than Good: Every parent knows the struggle of limiting de-

After pairing their child’s devices, they’re able to manage them remotely through at-a-touch block-

ing or automated schedules. It’s great for setting bedtime schedules, ensuring devices don’t cause homework distractions and for enjoying ping-free family dinners. It works on Wi-Fi and all cellular connections, meaning you can manage access whether you’re at the grocery store or at home. To learn more or download, visit OurPact.com. And of course, open the lines of communication about device use with your kids early on, and keep the dialogue going. Explain why screen time rules are important and set a good example. If you don’t want your kid to look at their device in the middle of a conversation, hold yourself to the same rule. (StatePoint)

Austin South Asian | March 2020

How A Career Helping Others Can Make You Happier

There’s no doubt about it -- what you do each day for work can make a huge impact on your overall well-being. According to a Society for Human Resource Management survey, key job satisfaction aspects include job security, respect, trust and a positive and healthy environment. If you don’t have these things in your workplace, you may be considering making a career shift. Studies suggest that workers in professions focused on serving other people tend to be the happiest and most satisfied, and experts point out that careers in the growing home care industry can be particularly fulfilling.

• This is not a desk job. Caregivers aren’t trapped in a cubicle doing paperwork or staring at a screen all day. They’re out in their com-

“There are few occupations more rewarding than empowering someone who needs a little help,” says Jennifer Sheets, president and chief executive officer of Caring Brands International and Interim HealthCare Inc. “A home healthcare career is a great fit for people who value flexibility and have a calling to help others and make a difference in the world.” So, is a caregiver job right for you? Here’s what to know:

munities, helping to keep seniors and others happy, healthy and safe. Their view changes throughout the day, keeping things fresh and invigorating. • No two days are the same. While daily tasks are straightforward, no two days are exactly the same for caregivers. Home care careers mean that one day, you could be playing a game with a senior; the next, you could be sipping tea and sharing stories.

• The work is meaningful. Working with patients to provide care and help them stay healthy is immensely rewarding. Yet, even when days are stressful, home care workers have the satisfaction of knowing they’re having a positive impact on the individuals they serve, as well as their communities.

career.

• It’s flexible. Part-time, full-time, per diem, with flexibility in location and availability -- these are just a few of the ways in which workers can customize the look and feel of a home care

• The industry is booming. As more seniors are electing to stay in their homes, an increasing number of home care aides and nurses are needed to provide them with essential care. Indeed, employment of home health aides and personal care aides is projected to grow 41 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all oc-

cupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, major providers of home healthcare are actively hiring, including Interim HealthCare, which takes steps to match patients to clients, and has locally owned and operated franchises across the U.S.

reers, visit interimhealthcare.com/ careers.“Whether you’re an experienced professional considering a pivot into home care, or a young adult looking for inspiration to choose a first career, the home care industry will welcome you with open arms,” says Sheets.”

To learn more about home care ca-

(StatePoint)

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4 Questions And Answers To Help You Manage Severe Asthma The majority of the more than 25 million Americans living with asthma enjoy active, healthy lives. But for others, despite using high dose asthma medicines and avoiding triggers, severe symptoms are a part of daily life. If this describes your experience, it could be severe asthma, a type of asthma that affects approximately 5-10 percent of those with the condition. Severe asthma is dangerous; increasing the risk of death, illness, and depression, and limiting one’s ability to work or go to school. It is responsible for 50 percent of all asthma healthcare costs. Even with severe asthma control is attainable, according to American Lung Association, which is offering these four questions and answers to help you determine your next steps:

1. How do I know if my asthma symptoms are under control? With severe asthma, people tend to have three or more symptoms (sometimes daily), such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing or wheezing, and most likely wake-up nightly due to those symptoms.

Also, if you’ve gone to the emergency department or were hospitalized due to asthma at least two times during the past year and were given oral corticosteroids to keep asthma under control, your asthma

is most likely not well controlled. Despite all your efforts to take your medications as prescribed, your symptoms continue. If this sounds like you, you may have severe asthma. 2. How do I know if I have severe asthma? There are several different types of asthma and knowing what kind you have can help in your treatment plan and management of symptoms. Testing for severe asthma may involve taking a blood sample, analyzing your lung mucus or taking a breath droplet test. These tests are looking for biomarkers, or identifiers that cause Type-2 inflammation, or other factors that cause non-Type-2 inflammation, resulting in your daily uncontrolled symptoms. Common types of severe asthma include allergic, eosinophilic (also known as e-asthma) and non-eosinophilic

asthma. If your specialist confirms a diagnosis of severe asthma and determines your specific type, they will develop a personalized treatment plan with you. 3. What severe asthma treatments are available for me? Treatment options may include: • Biologics: medicines targeting biomarkers causing type 2 inflammation. • Bronchial Thermoplasty (BT): a minor lung procedure that applies heat to the airways to decrease overgrowth (remodeling) of the smooth muscles and improve symptoms. • Antibiotic medicines or oral corticosteroids: medicines targeting non-type 2 inflammation caused when there are unknown biomarkers, or as a result of other health conditions. Note: If possible, it is important to discuss with your doc-

tor how to best reduce the need for oral corticosteroids. 4. Where do I go from here? What actions can I start today? Gaining control of your asthma starts by taking American Lung Association’s My Asthma Control Assessment to determine your level of asthma control. Once you have a better understanding of your asthma, you may need to see a specialist who can better explain what type of asthma you have and what treatment options are available. Make an appointment to visit your asthma doctor to start the discussion, and download the Lung Association’s Shared Decision-Making Worksheet. This tool, available at Lung.org/severeasthma, can help you discuss with your specialist which treatment plan might be best for you. (StatePoint)

Austin South Asian | March 2020

5 Important Financial Decisions: Should You DIY Or Hire A Pro?

Financial decisions can have a big impact on your future and the future of your loved ones. Good financial decisions you make on your own can save thousands of dollars, but according to experts, there are some decisions that may be better left to the professionals.

5 to 6% of the home’s sale price. On the other hand, your house may get less traffic compared to what it would receive if it were included

important to make sure your coverage is keeping up so that your loved ones are protected in the event that something happens to

In addition, studies show that people often overestimate the cost of life insurance, sometimes assuming it costs as much as three times more than it does. In addition to being surprised at how affordable it is, you also might be surprised at how quick and easy it is to get a quote.

1. Do your taxes. There is no one-size-fits-all answer but if you don’t have dependents or investments, don’t own a business, and have the time and patience, you may be able to file a simple tax form on your own fairly easily. As you gain significant income and your financial situation becomes more complex, a pro might be helpful. 2. Buy or sell a house. Weigh the pros and cons to determine the best plan. Choosing the “For Sale by Owner” route lets you avoid paying a commission to real estate agents, which averages

policy is designed to last a lifetime. But which type is best for you -and how much you actually need to protect your family -- is something your trusted insurance agent can help you determine.

4. Create a retirement savings plan. in professional listing platforms. You’d also need to be prepared to handle all the paperwork, organize open houses and screen potential buyers yourself.

you. Because life insurance is so critical, companies like Erie Insurance recommend always working with a pro instead of going the DIY route.

3. Purchase life insurance.

For example, term life insurance provides coverage for a specific number of years, while a whole life

Life is always changing, and it’s

The right advisor can help you figure out a monthly amount of money to set aside in a 401(k) or Roth IRA and choose the right investments to reach your long-term goals. If you want to DIY, there are free calculators available online that use your savings and spending habits to look at your financial situation. The federal government also

offers a calculator to estimate your social security benefits. 5. Write a will. This is an area where many experts say it may be advisable to hire a pro. Estate-planning software can be generic, as it considers compliance across the country instead of state-specific laws. It’s important to use the correct legal language in a will and be knowledgeable about estate and inheritance taxes when leaving behind property. As part of estate planning, you may want to consider addressing whom you’d want to care for your minor children in the event of your passing. Federal regulations prevent minors from legally owning property, but they can be beneficiaries. Determine whether you have the right skill set and time to take on these five important financial decisions. Doing it yourself can save money but the long-term result could be costly. (StatePoint)

What To Know About Financial Advising Career Paths If you’ve decided to pursue a career in financial advising, there are a few things you should know about the many opportunities within this fast-growing field.

firm’s data maintenance and financial plan preparation, while principals/partners are responsible for managing a large team of advisors, contributing to firm growth, and

provides a critical foundation to build a successful career in this growing field. You can also choose to specialize in different areas of financial advising. Deciding which

Whether you are just starting out or you are looking to make a career change, understanding the typical career path will help you chart your professional development. It will also help you evaluate the different types of positions and specialties within the financial advisory field so that you can decide where your interests and expertise best fit. Research from the CFP Board Center for Financial Planning has found a common five-step advisory career progression within leading financial planning firms: analyst, associate advisor, service advisor, lead advisor/managing director and principal/partner. Each of these positions involves a specific set of responsibilities, degrees and required skills. At the entry-level, analysts support a

ing short- and long-term personal and financial goals. • Accountants counsel clients on tax matters and help them prepare and submit tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service. • Attorneys support financial planners with estate and tax planning expertise and may be asked to provide advice directly to a client or to prepare legal documents needed to implement the client’s financial plan. • Estate planners provide clients with specific advice on managing their assets at the time of their death, as well as counsel on estate taxes.

servicing the most complex and largest client relationships. Some firms may require you to obtain professional certifications, such as the Certified Financial Planner designation, to attain certain positions. The unique skill set you develop while pursuing CFP certification

specialty to pursue depends on your interests and qualifications: • Financial planners give strategic advice to clients on their finances. They take a comprehensive look at a client’s entire financial picture to make recommendations for meet-

• Insurance agents are state-licensed individuals who sell or give advice on life, health, property and/or casualty insurance products. Many financial planners are licensed to provide these services, but some may refer clients to an insurance agent instead.

• Investment advisers provide securities advice to clients. They must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission or state securities agencies. • Brokers buy and sell securities products, such as stocks, bonds and mutual funds. They must register with a company member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and pass FINRA-administered securities exams. These specialties are not mutually exclusive, allowing you to choose several focus areas to service different client needs. You can find a detailed guide to financial advisory career paths at CFP.net/The-Center-for-FinancialPlanning/Initiatives. Information on becoming a CFP professional is available at CFP.net/Get-Certified/ Certification-Process.Learning more about the financial advisory field now will help you maximize your long-term career opportunities in the future. (StatePoint)

Austin South Asian | March 2020

Round Table With Candidates By Seema Govil Dr Pritesh Gandhi for Congress. Dr Gandhi has spent his life advocating and fighting for working families and children. He is a Houston born, first-generation American. I am the son of immigrants.

Pooja for Austin City Council District 10 Throughout her career, Pooja has advocated and spoken out for others.

A graduate of the UT School of Law and the University of Texas at Austin, Judge Dimple Malhotra has more than 20 years of experience working to break the cycle of domestic violence:

She brings a voice of equity, innovative thinking, and passion to protect her community.

Judge Dimple Malhotra brings 20 years of domestic violence experience to the bench.

Tips To Easily Shift To Daylight Saving Time Spring is just around the corner, which means that so too is Day-

3. You’ll already be losing an hour of the weekend when DST starts,

light Saving Time (DST).

so don’t waste any time manually setting your watches and clocks forward. For those who prefer a simple timekeeping device this process can be simplified.

She also brings a fresh perspective as an immigrant, a progressive Democrat, and the first and only Asian American female judge in Travis County. She is the only candidate that has both an entire career dedicated to ending domestic violence and a wealth of criminal trial experience.

He is a doctor to the underserved and uninsured. His inspiration came in his early years from his Dad-his dad, a pharmacist, started a small business in home healthcare. As a child, he watched as he provided discounted medication and nursing for families that couldn’t afford it. His Dad’s work on one had inspired him on one hand but on other hand he was also disheartened and kept thinking to himself that these working families deserved better. Since then, his life has been driven by these core values: dignity, fairness, opportunity, and duty.

As an attorney, a small business owner, and a nonprofit founder fighting for survivors of abuse and assault and their children, Pooja makes sure that no group of people are ignored. She has worked fervently for the community for years. Pooja grew up with the values that “hard work always pays off”, and she portrays these values every day as she advocates to represent the people and families of Austin. Judge Dimple Malhotra for county court at law 4 County Court at Law 4 specializes in misdemeanor domestic violence cases..

For this critical court, where the complexities and dynamics of domestic violence cases can impact not only the victim but also the community as a whole, experience matters. For full interview with the above candidates. Pls listen to the podcast here: https://www.rukusavenueradio. com/host-seema-govil For more such stories; Pls follow https://www.instagram.com/fablife360/ https://www.facebook.com/FabLife360/

We Welcome Articles From Readers And The Community. Info@Austinsouthasian.Com

While many people look forward to the start of DST all winter long seeing it as a marker of warmer, longer days ahead, making the actual shift is not always so simple for your body, mind or schedule. Here are a few ways to “spring forward” with ease: 1. Expect mornings to be a bit touch and go for the first several days. You may be extra groggy as your body adjusts to the new schedule. Luckily, there are plenty of eyeopening ways to energize your morning, including getting some exercise (even if it’s just a quick 5-10-minute routine), playing uptempo music, hydrating and eating a healthful, protein-rich breakfast. And of course, there is always coffee. 2. Likewise, it may take a few days before you start to feel sleepy at your typical bedtime. Create a wind-down routine in the evenings that will help relax you and get you primed to feel sleepy. This can include meditation, journaling and shutting down devices that emit blue light.

For example, by linking the Casio Edifice EQB1000D-1A to a smartphone, you can get the correct time not only in your current location, but for over 300 cities around the world (making travel smooth sailing as well). The watch accounts for both time zone and daylight saving time status of your current location, giving you one less to-do on this already short weekend. 4. If you like to eat meals at a fixed time, you can adjust your schedule gradually over the space of four days by bumping meal times 15 minutes at a time in order to give your stomach a chance to catch up with the clock. Don’t let the transition to longer evenings create undue stress for you and your family. With some smart strategies, you can adjust to DST with ease. (StatePoint)

Austin South Asian | March 2020 THEME: CANDY ACROSS 1. Unfathomably deep chasm 6. Lawyer group 9. Factoid 13. Non-flat area 14. Loquacious person’s gift 15. Member of clergy 16. Kitty sounds 17. Mesozoic one 18. All thumbs 19. *Who’s Pieces? 21. *Life ____ 23. Comic book cry 24. Evening in Roma 25. Boar’s mate 28. Bank deposit 30. Actress Ali or singer Tim 35. Flying saucers 37. Yeahs’ opposers 39. One of the Muses 40. Ancient region of western Europe 41. *Sweet bear 43. In a little while, old-fashioned 44. Like a neon sign 46. Fashion’s “New Look” inventor 47. Weasel’s cousin 48. Cash in credit card points, e.g. 50. “Good grief!” 52. The Old Man’s turf 53. Tucked in 55. Sine ____ non 57. *”Gimme a break” bar 60. *Egg with a surprise 63. Southwestern hut 64. Step on it 66. Small Asian ungulate 68. What radiology and biology have in common 69. Chihuahua’s cry 70. a.k.a. Ernest? 71. Japanese money, pl. 72. Blitzed 73. Industrious

DOWN 1. Similar to an adder 2. View from a moving train 3. Yesteryear 4. Shopping ____ 5. Creates disorder 6. Forever and a day 7. *Hershey made the first American milk chocolate one 8. Belittle 9. Have supper 10. Tennis serving whiz 11. Memorial Day solo 12. “The ____ of Racing in the Rain” 15. Fast and lively 20. Increasing 22. Location of ulna 24. Hindered 25. *Principal candy ingredient 26. Allowed into a bar, e.g. 27. Past tense of will 29. Glorify 31. SI unit of mass 32. Raja’s wife, pl. 33. Do penance 34. *Famous fictional bar 36. ____ gin 38. Smoke plus fog 42. Baghdad resident 45. Not strongly 49. CEO’s deg. 51. Fertilized 54. C2H5 56. “J’____” by #46 Across 57. Green superfood 58. Desktop picture 59. Facebook photo links 60. Not disregarded, as in a promise 61. Marine eagle 62. Surprise at a speakeasy 63. *Almond-induced state 65. Cardinal 3 67. Bovine hangout

SUDOKU Sudoku

Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com. Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in April 2020 issue.

To Advertise In ASA Call 512-828-6709

Austin South Asian | March 2020

Tips To Help Family Caregivers Avoid Burnout

Family caregivers lead busy and at times, stressful lives, often balancing work, their own kids and spouses, hobbies and more, all while ensuring their loved ones are happy and healthy.

or organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Heart Association.

eaten like pizza, versus scrambled eggs. When it comes to getting dressed, opt for Velcro if zippers

In celebration of family caregivers and all that they do, Interim HealthCare Inc. shares tips to help them avoid burnout and provide better care:

• Consider home care as a partner: Professional home care services can complement the care you provide, helping ease its emotional and physical toll while offering you peace of mind.

• Know you’re not alone: As of 2015, an estimated 43.5 million adults in the U.S. have provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older, according to AARP. Of these individuals, around 28 percent have a child or grandchild under the age of 18 living in their household, and six in 10 caregivers report being employed at some point in the past year while caregiving. Online and in-person support groups can be a great way to connect with others who may be in similar situations. These groups can be found through hospitals, Facebook, Meetup.com

The best way to handle them is to acknowledge that they are a natural reaction to stress. If these feelings persist, reach out to local caregiving support groups, a family physician or therapist for help.

While selecting senior home care services is something to be proud of, family members often feel guilt over the decision. Conflicted emotions are normal. • Make life easier: You can simplify daily tasks for your senior with a few considerations. For example, if utensils are difficult to use, look for opportunities to provide healthy finger foods that help your senior feel more independent. Think sliced frittata, which can be

and buttons have become difficult. Another good trick? Tie loops of string around the ends of zippers so they’re easier to grab. • Don’t be surprised by negative feelings: Caring for someone can be an emotional rollercoaster. Even the calmest person can experience a range of negative emotions.

However, knowing that the decision will make you better equipped to care for everyone can help you move past feelings of guilt. Home healthcare has emerged as a powerful option for families seeking a better way to care for their

senior loved ones. Not only does it provide medical and personal care for seniors, it can nurture their independence by allowing them to remain at home, all while providing respite care for family members from the daily routine of caregiving. Be sure to look for care that offers a whole-person approach, such as Interim HealthCare’s HomeLife Enrichment standard of care, where caregivers look beyond a diagnosis so that every patient is treated as an individual with unique needs and desires. To learn more, visit interimhealthcare.com. More caregiving tips can be found at interimhealthcare.com/ blog. Serving as a family caregiver is challenging. But there are ways to make life easier and more fulfilling for both you and your loved one. (StatePoint)

Make A Difference – When You Are Over 50 Years Any Help Is Appreciated By Vidya Kumar

FEBRUARY 2020 Sudoku Answer Mr.Yudhveer Bagga

My husband of 30 years realized one day that I need help even if it is for cutting vegetables or for running the mixer. For all these years he would rarely come into the kitchen to help me since I was cooking and also cleaning without any problem. As I am aging my ability to complete the task is taking longer than usual with the result what would be normal time for breakfast is getting pushed by half an hour. Unable to wait that much longer, my husband is offering to help me in the kitchen to hasten the cooking time.

Ms. Prema Raghavan

Only problem being that when I ask him to cut the vegetables he cuts it so much bigger that it stands out in any dishes that I am making. Or if I ask him to help me with running the grinder, most of the ingredients do not mix and in the ground mixture I can see lumps of coconut or other ingredients which according to him is good since it is tastier when you actually chew the coconut or the tomatoes in the dishes!! Anyhow, I do appreciate him helping me in the kitchen and hope that every spouse who has been working in the kitchen gets the help from the better half once they are not able to work in their normal speed and begin to slow down due to aging.

Austin South Asian | March 2020

Won’t You Won’t You Please Join Us... (Continued From Page 01) By Alka Bhanot, Co-Founder IMFF I finally watched Tom Hank’s amazing portrayal of Mr.Rogers in ‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood’. Would you be mine? Could you be mine? Won’t you be my neighbor? Won’t you please, won’t you please, Please won’t you be my neighbor? We all can be friends... even neighbors...be inclusive...and this is the invitation I extend to all of you - Won’ t you please, won’t you please, Please won’t you join us for the 5th Indie Meme Film Festival? We have a wonderful four day program which will leave you with many more friends, super fun memories, a deeper understanding of the South Asian culture and a new appreciation of Independent Cinema. And one of the biggest perks of attending the Indie Meme Film Festival (IMFF) is to hang out with the Meme Team! While the festival is in April, work starts in the summer of 2019 with the IMFF2020 Programming Director Sweta Rajesh doing what is the most fun thing for her- researching various regions of South Asia to secure representation from as much of the subcontinent as possible in the process she loves “learning about the diverse cultures through their cinema”. She is very proud of the festival line up this time and can’t wait for the audience’s reactions post-screening. The Indie Meme Board comprises of all volunteers who have taken on positions to run various parts of the festival and all these moving parts make this whole complete and beautiful. When asked by many why she does pro-bono work for Indie Meme, Supriya Kini, IMFF2020 Marketing Director, says she truly enjoys this contemporary art form and is so glad to do this meaningful work. Kini says “Films take you places you may never dare to go on your own, you see the perspective of others and understand their story. It is then impossible to judge them and easy to understand them”. Animon Jose, the new President of the Indie Meme Board, wears many hats running the organization. He is the one who has created the iconic auto-rickshaw poster for the festival.

When asked about how he juggles work, family and Indie Meme he says “It is a double bonanza when your passion is met with the vision of Indie Meme to influence social consciousness through cinema. It is an incredible feeling of satisfaction when you

tion of a price, you’ll get to experience the heart of South Asia” and Ananyaa adds “Give us a chance, we are trying to build a community that includes everyone”. And like I said earlier...won’t you please, won’t you join us for the 5th Indie Meme Film Festival...IMFF2020 team also in-

cludes Board Members Aashi Morales, Vandana Nayak, Meghana Dhall, Rubi Sanchez, Swas Pai, Geetika Tiwari, Ramdas Menon and Festival co-founders Tripti Bhatnagar & Alka Bhanot and many many Volunteers. We hope to see you on April 2nd. For more details & the complete schedule of IMFF2020, visit indiememe.org

One Kidney Is Enough By Seema Govil “One Kidney is enough”- this Kidney month Anil’s story will tell you how. NORTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — IndianAmerican Anil Srivatsa, donated a kidney to his brother in 2014. Ever since he has become what he never planned on being – a champion of organ donation. work towards organizing a good show. Any amount of personal sacrifice is worth it when the team you work with is as passionate and as dedicated as you.” IMFF2020 Festival Director, Pallavi Malviya is definitely looking forward to “more participation in terms of viewers, volunteers and enjoying diverse cinema with the community” in the upcoming festival. She does also acknowledge the challenges faced in organizing the festival. According to Pallavi, “one of the biggest being the finances required to make the magic happen. Yet having a bunch of enthusiastic volunteers helps overcome a lot of the challenges”. Most of the team is in their current role for the first time but has volunteered with Indie Meme for multiple years in various capacities before. They are all rock stars, making the mission and vision of the organization their own. IMFF2020 Technical Director Ananyaa Ravi believes in the mission of Indie Meme. “I think Alka and Tripti have made one big family that is amazing to be a part of”. This young wizard is now maintaining the web presence and introducing various new systems to make the Organization more efficient. “I had no idea how a film festival was put together and it has been incredible (and challenging!) to see it all come together. From programming to partnerships - it’s a lot of grunt work and intuition that has been rewarding. Oh, and of course watching the screeners.” Supriya can often be heard pitching IMFF@ Austin “If you want to travel & experience the world, start with Indie Meme. At a frac-

He started Gift of Life Adventure, which is a series of overland expeditions aimed at spreading organ donation awareness. By driving around the world to promote awareness, he said the hope has been to encourage people to start a conversation on the subject. “Love was the reason I went through what I did for my brother. In my opinion, love is the only reason anyone would donate an organ to somebody else — love for somebody you know personally or love for helping a stranger in need. Love is the only thing,” he says. Srivatsa has driven across 43 countries, burned rubber over 100K km, been on the road for over 400 days, and shared his story with over 73,000 people. His adventure sees him live and cooks in his car unless there is kind folk who offer him and his wife Deepali, a warm bed or hot food. In the hundreds of talks, he has given at schools, colleges, Rotary Clubs, community

centers and offices, he speaks of the fears associated with kidney the donation, a not so uncommon sentiment in many and also details the legal and procedural issues that plague organ donation around the world. Srivatsa also busts religious and superstitious myths. A man with a passion, he is the source of a wealth of real-life stories, accumulated during his travels and encounters with people from all walks of life. Srivatsa used to be the host of Limca book record-holding syndicated radio talk show across America from 1997-2006 called “Anil-ki-Awaaz.” He moved to India, in 2007 as the COO of an FM network owned by the India Today Group and then went on to become the CEO of Kings XI Punjab, the IPL team. Today, he is the co-founder of Radiowalla.in You can invite Anil to your city, university, club for a talk. Here are the topics that he will address: - How he dealt with all the fears associated with organ donation - The Journey through the legal and procedural issues that plague Organ Donation around the world - Speaking about concerns that only firsthand interactions with a living donor can help address. - What it takes to truly become an organ donor by throwing light on what happens after you sign up. - He deals with religious and superstitious myths that surround Organ Donation, and busting them would help save lives. Srivatsa also runs and manages Gift of Life Adventure, which is now a 501 c 3 charitable foundation. His journeys are corporate and crowdfunding. You can help fund his efforts by looking for Gift of Life Adventure on GoFundme or find him on @giftoflifeadventure on Instagram and Facebook. For more information please visit www.giftoflifeadventure. org. To read Srivatsa’s story please visit http:// about.me/anilsrivatsa.

Austin South Asian | March 2020

Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur

Brihadishvara Temple, also called Rajarajesvaram or Peruvudaiyār Kōvil, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in South bank of Kaveri river in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.

It is one of the largest South Indian temples and an exemplary example of a fully realized Dravidian architecture. Built by Tamil king Raja Raja Chola I between 1003 and 1010 AD, the temple is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Great Living Chola Temples”, along with the Chola dynasty era Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple and Airavatesvara temple. Built out of granite, the vimana tower above the sanctum is one of the tallest in South India. It was, in all likelihood, one of the tallest structures in the world at the time of its construction.The temple has a massive colonnaded prakara (corridor) and one of the largest Shiva lingas in India. The complex includes shrines for Nandi, Parvati, Kartikeya, Ganesha, Sabhapati, Dakshinamurti, Chandeshvara, Varahi and others. The temple is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu. The Brihadeshvara temple plan and development utilizes the axial and symmetrical geometry rules. It is classified as Perunkoil (also called Madakkoil), a big temple built on

a higher platform of a natural or man-made mounds. The temple complex is a rectangle that is almost two stacked squares, covering 240.79 metres (790.0 ft) east to west, and 121.92 metres (400.0 ft) north to south. In this space are five main sections: the sanctum with the towering superstructure (sri vimana), the Nandi hall in front (Nandimandapam) and in between these the main community hall (mukhamandapam), the great gathering hall (mahamandapam) and the pavilion that connects the great hall with the sanctum (ardhamandapam).

The temple complex integrates a large pillared and covered veranda (prakara) in its spacious courtyard, with a perimeter of about 450 metres (1,480 ft) for circumambulation. Outside this pillared veranda there are two walls of enclosure, the outer one being defensive and added in 1777 CE by the

French colonial forces with gun-holes with the temple serving as an arsenal. They made the outer wall high, isolating the temple complex area. On its east end is the original main gopuram or gateway that is barrel vaulted. It is less than half the size of the main temple’s vimana. Additional structures were added to the original temple after the 11th century, such as a mandapa in its northeast corner and additional gopurams (gateways) on its perimeters to allow people to enter and leave from multiple locations. Some of the shrines and structures were added during the Pandya, Nayaka, Vijayanagara and Maratha era, before the colonial era started, and these builders respected the original plans and symmetry rules. Inside the original temple courtyard, along with the main sanctum and Nandi-mandapam are two major shrines, one for Kartikeya and for Parvati. The complex has additional smaller shrines. The temple faces east, and once had a water moat around it. This has been filled up. The fortified wall now runs around this moat. The two walls have ornate gateways called the gopurams. These are made from stone and display entablature. The main gateways are on the east side. The first one is called the Keralantakan tiruvasal, which means the “sacred gate of the Keralantakan”. The word Keralantakan was the surname of king Rajaraja who built it. About a 100 metres (330 ft) ahead is the inner courtyard gopuram called the Rajarajan tiruvasal. This is more decorated than the Keralantakan tiruvasal, such as with its adhishthanam relief work narrat-

AKBAR AND BIRBAL STORIES The Rooster And The Hens

Akbar decides to test Birbal’s wit by playing a trick on him. He secretly calls his courtiers, explains them a plan, and gives them an egg. Akbar asks all the courtiers to bring the egg concealed in their clothes the next day. The next day, Akbar tells the court that he had a dream last night that the best way to test the honesty of his courtiers is to ask them to bring an egg. Therefore, he tells all his courtiers to go to the royal pond and bring one egg at a time. Those who find the egg are loyal while those who can’t aren’t, he says. The courtiers go to the pond and bring

back the concealed egg in their hand one at a time. It is soon Birbal’s turn. He goes to the pond but finds no eggs. He searches around the pond, under the bushes, and trees, but finds no eggs. Birbal returns to the court wondering about the situation. He notices courtiers giving him sharp glances and smiling among themselves. Soon the situation is clear. As Birbal approaches Akbar’s throne, he bursts into the call of a rooster. The sudden act takes the emperor and courtiers by surprise. “Why did you do that Birbal?” asks Akbar. “Your majesty, only hens produce eggs. Since all the courtiers presented an egg, they are all hens. As I am the rooster, I couldn’t produce any eggs.” There is silence for a few seconds and soon Akbar begins laughing, followed by the courtiers. Birbal proves his wit yet again.

ing scenes from the Puranas and other Hindu texts. The inner eastern gopuram leads to a vast courtyard, in which the shrines are all signed to east-west and north-west cardinal directions. The complex can be entered either on one axis through a five-story gopuram or with a second access directly to the huge main quadrangle through a smaller free-standing gopuram. The gopuram of the main entrance is 30 m high, smaller than the vimana. The main temple-related monuments and the great tower is in the middle of this courtyard. Around the main temple that is dedicated to Shiva, are smaller shrines, most of which are aligned axially. These are dedicated to his consort Parvati, his sons Subrahmanya and Ganesha, Nandi, Varahi, Karuvur deva (the guru of Rajaraja Chola), Chandeshvara and Nataraja. The Nandi mandapam has a monolithic seated bull facing the sanctum. In between them are stairs leading to a columned porch and community gathering hall, then an inner mandapa connecting to the pradakshina patha, or circumambulation path. The Nandi (bull) facing the mukh-mandapam weighs about 25 tonnes. It is made of a single stone and is about 2 m in height, 6 m in length and 2.5 m in width. The image of Nandi is a monolithic one and is one of the largest in the country. The sanctum is at the center of the western square. It is surrounded by massive walls that are divided into levels by sharply cut sculptures and pilasters providing deep bays and recesses. Each side of the sanctuary has a bay with iconography. The interior of the sanctum sanctorum hosts an image of the primary deity, Shiva, in the form of a huge stone linga. It is called Karuvarai, a Tamil word that means “womb chamber”. This space is called garbha griha in other parts of India. Only priests are allowed to enter this inner-most chamber. In the Dravida style, the sanctum takes the form of a miniature vimana. It has the inner wall together with the outer wall creating a path around the sanctum for circumambulation (pradakshina). The entrance is highly decorated. The inside chamber is the sanctum sanctorum, which houses the brihad linga.The main Vimana (Shikhara) is a massive 16 storeys tower of which 13 are tapering squares. It dominates the main quadrangle. It sits above a 30.18 metres (99.0 ft) sided square. The tower is elaborately articulated with Pilaster, piers(a raised structure), and attached columns which are placed rhythmically covering every surface of the vimana.

Rajinikanth’s 168th Film Titled Annaatthe

Rajinikanth starrer Annaatthe, written and directed by Siva of Viswasam fame, will be a rural entertainer. We had reported earlier that Rajinikanth’s upcoming film might be titled Annaatthe. It turns out we were right! Sun Pictures, the production house which is bankrolling

“#Thalaivar168 is #Annaatthe @ rajinikanth @directorsiva @KeerthyOfficial @immancomposer @ prakashraaj @khushsundar @ sooriofficial @actorsathish,” read the caption of the title announcement video. Annaatthe, written and directed by Siva of Viswasam fame, will be a

Austin South Asian | March 2020

It also marks the first collaboration of Siva and Rajinikanth. The movie also stars Khushbu, Meena, Prakash Raj, Nayanthara, Keerthy Suresh, Sathish and Soori. Khushbu last worked with Rajinikanth in 1992 in three films – Annamalai, Pandian and Mannan. Meena, on the other hand, last shared screen space with Rajini in Kuselan (2008). Prakash Raj made a cameo appearance in the blockbuster Padyappa in 1999. Nayanthara will be teaming up with Rajinikanth for the fifth time following Chandramukhi (2005), Sivaji (2007), Kuselan (2008) and Darbar (2020).

the film, took to Twitter to make the official announcement.

rural entertainer.

D Imman, a longtime collaborator of Siva, has been roped in to compose the music for Annaatthe.

‘Student Of The Year 2 The much-awaited trailer of the month, ‘Student Of The Year 2’

Thalaivi: Presenting Kangana Ranaut As Jayalalithaa On The Leader’s 72nd Birth Anniversary On the occasion of 72nd birth anniversary of the late political leader Jayalalithaa, the makers of Thalaivi released a new look from the film.

Meanwhile, the makers of the film remembered Jayalalithaa on her 72nd birth anniversary by sharing a throwback picture of the legendary leader.

On Monday morning, the makers shared a new picture, in which the film’s lead actress Kangana Ranaut can be seen dressed as Jayalalithaa.

The caption on the post read, “Remembering the super-lady J Jaya-

her and follows her teachings, denotes her as Jaya Amma.” The makers of Thalaivi revealed the first look from the film in November, last year. In January, another look from the

She can be seen wearing a white saree, a red bindi on her forehead and a warm smile.

The film is based on the story of the life of J Jayalalithaa, and touts to shed light on the lesser known aspects of her life.” Thalaivi, directed by AL Vijay, brings onscreen Jayalalithaa’s journey as a stellar actress which was followed by a powerful political career.

Kanagana told mid-day, “Since I am tall and skinny, and my face is angular, not round, I had to take mild doses of hormone pills to look different.

The film is the sequel to 2012’s ‘Student of the Year’ starring Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and Sidharth Malhotra in the lead roles. Helmed by Punit Malhotra, ‘SOTY 2’ is produced by Karan Johar under his home banner Dharma Productions.

Of course, I also started eating foods that promote weight gain.”

‘Student Of The Year 2’ Trailer Out And It’s Mind-blowing!

Arvind Swami plays Maruthur Gopala Ramachandran (MGR) in Thalaivi.

In the trailer, one can see a powerpacked entry for Tiger while playing kabaddi with his team who is super-excited to study in St Theresa’s college.

Directed by Vijay and co-produced by Vishnu Vardhan Induri and Shaailesh R Singh, the film will release in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu on June 26, this year.

Sharing the look from the film, the actress’ team on social media, wrote: “Revealing Kangana’s look from the film Thalaivi on the occasion of 72nd Birth Anniversary of Jayalalithaa.

On the professional front, Kangana Ranaut was last seen in Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari’s sports drama Panga, co-starring Richa Chadha, Neena Gupta and Jassie Gill. lalithaa on her 72nd birth anniversary. Her life’s story speaks volumes about the stout-heartedness and the leadership qualities she possessed. Kangana and everyone who loves

film was revealed on social media. Speaking of her transformation into Jayalalithaa, Kangana had told mid-day, in an interview last year that she had to take “hormone pills.”

starring Tiger Shroff and debutantes Ananya Panday and Tara Sutaria is finally out.

The actress also has Sarvesh Mewara’s Tejas in the pipeline, in which she will play an Air Force pilot.

Tara is another student whose main aim is to win the dance competition and takes the help of the allrounder, Tiger. Meanwhile, this sequel also has a connection with a role where Ananya is seen as a rich spoilt brat who can be seen spraying pink paint on Tiger’s bicycle and has the parking issue. The trailer also shows a love triangle between Tiger-Ananya-Tara. g the Student Of The Year award.

Austin South Asian | March 2020

John Abraham To Produce Biopic Akshay Kumar Starrer Sooryavanshi Of Social Entrepreneur Revathi Roy To Hit Screens On March 24

After producing a series of hit Bollywood films, John Abraham is all set to produce the biopic of social entrepreneur Revathi Roy.

life that has empowered so many women in India. I can’t think of anyone better than Robbie to helm this dramatic yet delicately bal-

The actor turned producer announced on Tuesday that he will be collaborating with Robbie Grewal and Anil Bohra for the untitled flick. Abraham took to Twitter to announce the next project of his production company John Abraham Entertainment. He posted a picture of himself with Roy and other members of the production team. “Very happy to have @revathi_roy on board; her story flips the ‘rags to riches’ adage in a compelling way. A truly eventful & inspiring

anced film,” tweeted Abraham. Revathi Roy is the founder of hyperlocal logistics venture Hey

DeeDee that consists of an allwomen fleet that delivers parcels on two-wheelers. The venture delivers gifts, groceries, flowers and other things. Roy is also the pioneer of the first all-women taxi service venture in Asia and is currently associated with the Indian government’s Atal Innovation Mission. (Courtesy: www.Indiawest.com)

Who Is Hrithik Roshan’s Surprise Role-Model?

Recently, Hrithik Roshan visited the city of Udaipur for an event. Over there, the actor was asked who he reveres as his rolemodel in life, and his answer gives away the most significant perspective of which we must all take note.

able to see one’s evolution and to aim at achieving it. What Roshan said stands true to how we have seen the actor make

life on screen to holding strong to the podium as everyone’s inspiration, the actor has done it all every time, and with each passing year, we see Roshan setting new records. We now know the reason for his success, growth and thus for the unfathomable love that he receives.

His answer told us all about how we see growth and evolution, which has been always synonymous with Roshan in his twodecade-long career. “My role model is myself 20 years from now!” he said to everyone’s surprise. “I try and imagine the kind of person I want to be, the kind of values I want to have, the kind of character I want to build as a human being, the things I want to achieve in life. So to be able to achieve those things, what kind of a person do I need to be right now, that becomes my process,” said the actor, giving us the vision to be

sure that he imbibes change, constantly improve and do his best. From bringing new characters to

tion!

The dual roles in his debut film “Kaho Naa…Pyaar Hai,” and in “Krrish,” “Koi… Mil Gaya,” “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…,” “Lakshya” (as actor and not the film), “Dhoom:2,” “Jodhaa Akbar,” “Guzaarish,” :Agneepath,” “Kaabil,” “Super 30” and “War” are all clear indications of his source of inspira-

(Courtesy: www.Indiawest.com)

The release date of Rohit Shetty’s upcoming cop drama Sooryavanshi’s is out. The film will hit theaters on March 24, 2020. Filmmaker Karan Johar announced the news on his Twitter handle with

a video featuring the “indomitable trio of the Rohit Shetty Universe” – Ranveer Singh’s Simmba, Ajay Devgn’s Singham and Akshay Kumar’s Sooryavanshi. These characters and the films they appear in form Shetty’s so-called cop universe. Ranveer, Ajay and Akshay are told about the release date by a group of excited kids in the video. Karan Johar also announced that Mumbai theaters would be open 24×7 from March 24. This news comes in the wake of the Maharashtra cabinet’s decision to allow Mumbai malls, restaurants and multiplexes to stay open around the clock. “Who better than the indomitable trio of the Rohit Shetty Universe to announce that Mumbai theatres will now be open 24×7…. from March 24, 2020 with #Sooryavan-

shiOn24thMarch … see you at the theatres… night or day!” Karan wrote alongside the video. In a statement, Akshay Kumar said, “What a moment in cinematic history in India. To be the first to

present our film Sooryavanshi at what is now called 24×7 Mumbai is just the best way any film fanatic can spend Gudi Padwa. I wish this initiative was around when I was young. I wouldn’t have bunked school so much.” Akshay’s character was introduced towards the end of Ranveer starrer Simmba. Sooryavanshi will star Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif in the lead roles. Gulshan Grover, Abhimanyu Singh, Niharica Raizada, Jackie Shroff, Sikandar Kher, Nikitin Dheer and Vivan Bhatena are also part of the film’s cast. Ajay Devgn and Ranveer Singh will make cameo appearances as Singham and Simmba, respectively. Rohit Shetty, Karan Johar, Aruna Bhatia, Hiroo Yash Johar and Apoorva Mehta have joined hands to bankroll Sooryavanshi.

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Austin South Asian | March 2020