THE MILEAGE - January Issue, 2016

New Year Special Issue

Volume No.II

Issue No.VIII

January, 2016

Guwahati

Total Pages-24

inside

Career in Politics Open defecation

CLICK ONLINE: themileage.org

Memoirs of 2015 themileage

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The Mileage January, 2016 ADVISORS Talmizur Rahman, Chandan Kr. Goswami Nurul Islam Laskar CONSULTING EDITOR Aniruddha Laskar EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Bijoy Ghimire bijoy@themileage.org

P

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Deepa Kumari Basfore SUB-EDITOR Saibal Krishna Sharma Director (Ad Sales & Business Development) Shanker Chetri shanker@themileage.org +91 8011412178 CREATIVE HEAD Bishnu Saikia PRO CUM LEGAL & CULTURAL REPORTER Swapnav (Mausam) Jyoti Baishya Saud GRAPHICS & DESIGNING Himangshu Lahkar Maqsood Ahmed FOR ADVERTISEMENTS Miku Gogoi Prachee Choudhury Rohit Bharadwaj Pronami Dutta email: ad@themileage.org Delhi : Anand K Newar +91-7042172146 CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS Rudhir Prakash Sarma Banani Das Chowdhury Jainul Ali CIRCULATION Pushpak Roy +91 9577571388 Pradip Chetri PHOTOGRAPHY Akash Harizan, DOF

CONTENTS

Letters to the editor can be sent at editor@themileage.org or themileage.tab@gmail.com Articles and the feature write ups are invited and can be mailed at bijoy@themileage.org

o l i t i c a l literacy is a set of abilities considered necessary for citizens to participate in the very functioning of a government. It includes an understanding of how government works and the important issues facing society as well as the critical thinking skills to evaluate different points of view.

Whichever political party one may align with but the right to vote constitutes the integral part of a true citizen.

Although we as Indians laud ourselves for having all the freedoms guaranteed by the constitution, many Indians today do not consider their say to be significant. Their apathy can be found in the different styles of voting which could be detrimental to the nation.

Many of those who are eligible to vote simply choose not to. They are either least bothered to vote or don’t find the time to vote when Election Day comes. This kind of attitude is damaging to the nation.

The second type of apathetic voting is uninformed voting. An uninformed voter knows little about whom to vote and whom not to vote. He gets easily influenced and might end up casting his valuable vote to a wrong candidate.

The last form of apathetic voting is voting

on a candidate based on one issue. These single issue voters choose the future of the nation on a single issue, disregarding all other policies proposed by the politician.

This means that a completely inept candidate could get into the office simply by pandering to a specific issue in an area and post-election he will be able to retain power so long as he or she continues to support the issue they got elected into office on.

It is high time that we as citizens should be more politically aware and should not shrug off our shoulders on any political issue which matters to the society at large.

Especially active involvement of the youths in the present day politics has become mandatory so as to make India’s democratic set-up more vibrant. The cover story this issue talks elaborately on how politics could be one of the most sought after career options for the youths today.

The ensuing Assam Legislative Assembly elections will decide which political party will shape the fate of the state in the next five years. Thus, let us make a cautious and intelligent decision while choosing our candidate and our leader for the larger interests of the state.

By understanding the very essence of your voting rights and by voting on the Election Day, you are able to dictate the future of the nation. You also get to enjoy the rights that our founding fathers worked so hard for us to gain. Informed voting and political literacy in the masses will help to ensure that generations ahead of us get to enjoy the benefits of a nation that has the opportunity to elect the best possible candidate to office.

(Editor-in-Chief)

REMINISCENCES

COVER STORY

Are You Interested To Make A Career in “Politics”? 5-6 Banani Das Chowdhury

RECOLLECTING MEMOIRS OF 2015 10-11 TMN

LIFESTYLE

A CANDID TALK WITH MISS FASHION DIVA 13 TMN

ENVIRONMENT

The Menace of open defecation 7 Deepa Basfore

Reliving father’s romanticism with Assam Barbara Hartlay

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Editorial page 3 EVENT 15-18 ENTERTAINMENT 19

MUSIC

PEOPLE AND PLACES

OTHER REGULAR FEATURES

Welcoming Kumar Sanu… 14 Swapnav (Mausam) Jyoti Baishya Saud

CHAT ZONE 20 FACES of the month 22

The article on career ‘Why you should not join civil services in India?” revealed much-unknown bitter facts of what we may call the mostwished traditional elite career in the Indian democracy. I congratulate the writer to share such high-profile and clandestine yet top trade secrets with the 21st century generation youth of the information technology age.

At the same time I also pretty humbly suggest the editor of the magazine to include more articles which elucidate and entertain the motivational need and spiritual enlightenment of the common masses, especially to give it what we may call the cosmopolitan feel and pan- Indian nature.

The cover story of your last issue “A Right Foot-Balling Forward” brings out the essence of football in the North-eastern part of India. Being from this part of the country I take pride in our potential and hope that someday North-eastern players bring glory to the nation.

Shreeprakash Sharma Samastipur, Bihar

Jayanta Talukdar, Guwahati

© All content of The Mileage, such as text, graphics, logos, button icons, images, data compilations is the property of The Mileage. Copying any portion of the content or reproducing it in any other form is not permissible in any part of the world. # The views or opinions expressed in the magazine are that of the authors and other content providers. The editor of this magazine does not necessarily subscribe to all the viewpoints presented by them.

Published and Printed by D.P. Upadhyaya on behalf of M/S THE MILEAGE from H/N. 39, By lane no.1, Ananda Nagar, Near Hotel Grand Starline, Guwahati -05 Email: info@themileage.org, themileage.tab@gmail.com, Contact no: 03612349928, 8876752400

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Janasanyog/1462/15

Cover STORY

Banani Das Chowdhury

T

he term “Politics” as defined by the Oxford dictionary states “the activities concerned with governing a country or area”. And the very dictionary defines the word “Career” as “an occupation undertaken for a long period of a person’s life”. Making a career in politics in broader sense, therefore involves a vast genre of activities involved in aiding in the proper functioning of the government; formulating and implementing policies; and bringing in all round development of the nation. It also takes a lot of guts, hard work, honest dedication and effective approach to take the plunge to take up career in politics.

“Politics” is therefore a highly esteemed profession with great responsibility; a path through which the destination of counrty’s overall development can be traced.

“Career in Politics” is not a cup of tea or even an option in the menu of career choices for many, be it the youth or their guardians. To start with, let’s read what the future generation of our nation has a say on it. Manya and Mehazabin both in their teen ages feel, “Politicians are boring and give lectures only.” They further

The Mileage January, 2016

added that they of course don't want to be “politicians”; rather the former wants to work in bank and latter wants to become a doctor. One of them also added, taking the name of two most “popular” political parties, that these parties run race for who is the best. This is a glimpse of what kids of such a tender age think of about career in this field. Trying to convince them to think for a while that if they join politics in future, what they would do for the nation; the answer that came infused some rays of hope. In their innocent say, but yet in its true meaning of joining politics; one said that she would do social service and the other said she would cut down the “allu” (potato), “peyaj” (onion) and other commodities' prices and give free food to the poors with her own money.

“Politics” is often regarded as dirty game, a place full of corruption and scams.

This has become a roadblock to generate political maturity and clearing the mist in the true meaning of what “politics” is. This is also one of the vital reasons for which many youth leave the thought of taking a career in politics. Let’s admit the fact that corruption and scams are part of not just

the political sphere, neither all politicians nor those related to politics are immoral.

How to create awareness to bring in a change in mindset of youth and people in general then? Deep, a journalist believes, “Firstly, present political scenario have to be changed; India should be scam free; corruption free etc., then youth would start restoring faith in political system.” He further adds, “Media and popular culture as movies should also show right things about politicians.”

Media’s role indeed is very important to generate awareness regarding career in politics. The role of social media is a great boon to further boost in creating the hype about it. Awareness programmes regarding the true role of politics in life, the responsibilties and job profile of being in a political career should be done on a grassroot level, also focus to be given to the young children and youth so that they can grow interest to join in this field.

Some recent researches show youths interest in politics is consistently increasing since few years. A need for active participation from youth to make Indian democracy most effectively

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COVER STORY

powerful is much required. Politics is an integral part of life. Every government policies formed, laws enacted, elected representative coming to power and their respective actions, has a deep impact upon our society and economy. We need to be politically conscious of our rights, responsibilities so that government becomes more transparent. It is easy to pass judgements that “politics is not my game to play”, but let’s remember, we are the integral part of our political system. It’s high time, youth should consider to take up “career in politics”. And the main motto should be selfless service to the nation and not power.

A few years back, what Chhavi Rajawat, India’s youngest Sarpanch of a small village, Soda in Rajasthan, makes one infuse great faith and inspiration in youth in taking up politics as career. Well educated with an MBA degree, she quitted her corporate career to bring positive change in her village Soda, by joining politics.

Through student movements and unions and social movements etc. also some great political leaders are being born. From AASU, (All Assam Student’s Union), a nonpolitical organization in the state; emerged political leaders as to name a few as former Chief Minister of Assam, Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, AGP ; Sarbananda Sonowal, BJP and currently Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs; etc. In the national front, leaders like Arvind Kejriwal from Aam Aadmi Party and others born from the great anti-corruption social movement.

But what’s the route to enter politics as like other career courses? Many think that politics is a matter of chance, a game of power, or at best a legacy of people belonging to political families. So, politics is often taken as an uncertain career with

The Mileage January, 2016

no clear route. For a commoner without political connections and “celebrity” status; career courses in government and politics can be beneficial. Agrees Jhimli, pursuing engineering, “Those who make up their mind to enter politics, such career courses in politics is a good way to realise their dreams as it would help them understand it better.”

On the contrary, Dipti, who studied political science at her graduation thinks, political theories, good governance etc. can be taught but political mind cannot be created. It’s a talent which cannot be taught but would develop within and is inborn.”

Around the world , there are some schools of government as John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, US; Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, UK; Victoria University of Wellington’s School of Government, New zealand and the likewise. Back home we have some institutes as MIT School of Government in Pune offering a one year diploma in Masters Programme in Government. Apart from it The J i n d a l

But what’s the route to enter into politics as like other career courses? Many think that politics is a matter of chance, a game of power, or at best a legacy of people belonging to political families. So, politics is often taken as an uncertain career with no clear route.

School of government and public policy, Haryana also offers a masters programme in public policy.

As with two different sides of same coin, though a great leader is not made but we need more career institutes as such schools of government with easy affordability for all economic sections of students, to generate the base of right knowledge for making a political career. Apart from making a politician, such courses also help to find work in spheres related in political sphere as political analyst, Policy makers, Election consultants and so on. Such career courses would atleast nurture the talent and groom those desirous of making a career in politics.

For entering politics; Anil, who teaches in the field of media feels, “Minimum education is must, and why not to have PET (Political Eligibility Test) for those who want to take career in it, this would create a new dimension of politics as a whole and make it better.”

Career courses henceforth are ideal to pave way for those who desire to enter politics adding to the treasure of educated and trained youth in politics. volunteering and internship in some schools of government also give the right exposure to join politics in a “certain” way and shape one’s analytical, networking and communication skills etc.

Great visionaries as former Indian President and scientist, Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, and great saint as Swami Vivekananda, have always infused great faith in the power of youth.With the guide of veteran politicians, a brigade of honest, educated youth should enter the political arena to take India to great heights and bring with it innovative ideas to change Indian politics’ loopholes for good.

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ENVIRONMENT

Health is wealth, someone rightly said that. Practicing healthy habits is actually taking care of oneself and others too. Deepa Basfore reports on the unhealthy habit of open defecation which is becoming a threat to healthy India

W

e, the Indians are entirely different from people of other countries; it might be in terms of culture, tradition, food items or even the sanitary habits. Talking about the differences, it also reminded me that India is the only country where one can defecate openly and there is no surprise about it.

By the above statement, I am in no way trying to say that we are lagging behind in any way, open defecation is a habit and many do not refer it as an issue at all. States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand has more homes which does not have toilets than those which have it. You would be surprised to know that our country is home to the world’s largest population of people who defecate in the open and excrete close to 65,000 tonnes of faeces into the environment each day.

If the data has still not given you goose bumps, let me tell you another shocking fact that blame game is not an exception

The Mileage January, 2016

here too. There are people who still think that constructing toilets is a responsibility of the government if they want to stop open defecation. Government of India has also taken various initiatives about it and now giving Rs.4, 000 to every household for construction of a toilet. Even many states have come forward; a state council in Ahmedabad has also come up with a scheme where children are being paid to use public toilets.

However, the agony is that it is not only limited to few states, open defecation is also a problem in major cities. For example, in Guwahati, I am sure, you cross many places several times a day where you need to cover your nose and pass. But I am sure, the people of Assam or Northeast as a whole has toilets at their homes. The issue here is that most of the people are not concerned about open defecation and think it as right, and moreover our public toilets are also not cleaned properly on a regular basis so that even the willing ones can actually use it.

The issue of open defecation poses a serious threat to the health of children in India. This practice is the main reason India reports the highest number of diarrheal deaths among children underfive in the world. Every year, diarrhoea kills 188,000 children under five in

India. Children weakened by frequent diarrhoea episodes are more vulnerable to malnutrition, stunting, and opportunistic infections such as pneumonia.

It is disheartening to know that only 11 per cent of Indian rural families dispose of child faeces safely. 80 per cent of children’s faeces are left in the open or thrown into the garbage. With 44 per cent of mothers disposing of their children’s faeces in the open, there is a very high risk of microbial contamination (bacteria, viruses, and amoeba) of water which causes diarrhoea in children. The dangerous effect of the habit can be determined by the fact that one gram of faeces contains 1 million viruses, 1million bacteria and 1,000 parasite cysts which are enough to make us ill. This also causes air pollution and soil pollution which even harms the nature.

Though different initiative of the government has created awareness in people in the villages but there is also a lot to be done in the cities too. Peeing in public is common in man and they do not usually have any problem. But at the same time it is impossible for ladies or students. Various studies have shown that even many schools, colleges and universities do not have clean toilets which can be used, even offices lack the cleanliness of toilets which is a threat to the health of the students or employees specially ladies. So, we must come forward and raise our voice for a safe and healthy environment. we should not let anyone play with our health and should demand for toilets in every household.

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people & places

I Barbara Hartlay made her maiden visit to the virgin paradise and she finds it much more spectacular than the description by her father in his diary who was an Army Officer posted in Assam during World War II.

am English, visiting Assam for the first time. I am interested in following in the footsteps of my late father, who was stationed here during the Second World War in 1943. A junior Officer with the Royal Artillery, he wrote a diary in which he mentioned many places he travelled to and I am trying to see as many as possible on this trip. Although he spent time in Dimapur on the Manipur Road, where my mother also was a volunteer canteen organiser for the troops, Ray, my father, spent some time in Digboi. He travelled there by train to Guwahati, by barge to Tezpur, and by train and truck to Tinsukia. Some of these short journeys took many days and he remembers making

The Mileage January, 2016

tea with hot water from the engine of the railway train. At Digboi he was employed to set up anti-aircraft guns against a possible attack by the Japanese on the oil wells, and draining the swamps to prevent malaria. Much of his time was also spent in the Clubs, enjoying sport and the bar, and riding around on a motor bike! A short time was spent running a rest camp for soldiers on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra at Saikhowa. He did not find this life exciting nor challenging and by the end of 1943 was training to fly in as a Chindit to fight the Japanese in Burma behind the lines in the jungle. He flew from Lalighat along with 10,000 other troops from India, West Africa and Britain plus hundreds of mules to carry the equipment. The descendants of some of these animals can be seen at Saikhowa I believe. He survived two major battles and the diseases which killed many in Northern Burma in 1944 and went on to become part of a propaganda unit in 1945 aiming to persuade Japanese soldiers to surrender near Yangon.

Of course there is much more to see as a traveller in Assam, and I have enjoyed the warm hospitality of tea planters, tribal people and the Raas festival in Majuli Island, where I have also seen the masks and weaving done. Talking with people is always interesting and I have learned much about the unique lifestyles of Assam.

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CULTURE

The Mileage January, 2016

I

was shivering in cold. It was 4.30 a.m. in a January morning. The sky was clear but it was foggy all around. The view of our neighbour’s house was not even clear. I was waiting for my brother to come out from shower. Unlike me, my brother is very active and always full of fun to be with. Both my parents were done with their shower. My mother was busy in kitchen holding an aluminum vessel that consisted of hot water. Those days, we didn’t have the luxury of geyser at our home. I could hardly open my eyes.

Wrapping myself into a woolen shawl, I somehow managed to open my eyes. I was still into the feast that we had the previous night. Mutton curry, Chicken masala, fish delicacies, pulao add a divine sense to both my body and soul. This feast is known as Uruka in Assamese.

Our house was crowded with my maternal, paternal uncles and aunts. All of them seem to be in great zeal. My mom and aunts were busy in cutting the veggies since afternoon. On the other hand, dad and my uncles were busy in getting the raw materials from the market. Some uncles were busy in preparing a tent in our garden under which the cooking will take place that night. Some were helping

the ladies in peeling potatoes and peas. Me and my brother were busy in playing hide and seek with our cousins.

Everyone was waiting eagerly for the feast to begin. The clock struck six and the temple bells were heard, my mom also lighted candles and diyas in front of Lord Shiva. I would like to mention here that apart from Lord Shiva, we have Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha too in our temple.

Our temples had other Gods and Goddess too. Everyone was served lime tea in that chilled weather with hot yummy samosas.

Finally by 7 O’clock, all set to cook. The Earthen stoves were lit and the tent was sparkling in dark red color. I could even remember the aroma of onions, garlic, and star anise sauté’ into the oil. The aroma of Garam Masala spread into the air as saffron

blends with milk.

After few hours, we were called for dinner. My mouth was watering after seeing delicacies in front of me. I just wanted to grab everything as I am a voracious eater.

Suddenly, my eyes got opened as my brother wake me up by shaking my frozen body. He asked in a soft tone, “Ba, please go for a shower, I am done. It’s your turn now”. In Assamese, Ba is addressed to elder sister as Didi in Hindi. My father arranged a small mejhi (small hut made out of straw) and we all were supposed to stand in front of it and burn it. One by one we were offering the sesame seeds and the new harvested rice to Lord Agni (God of Fire). Me and my brother took the blessings of our parents and started our day with an enthusiastic manner.

Our house encountered many unexpected guests. My mom prepared different delicacies such as rice cakes, rice pudding, sweet pudding balls dipped in kheer and many more different laddoos.

Arrival of each guest gave me a reason to eat more and more. By the end of the day, we had an authentic family dinner which was the best part I enjoy. This symbolizes love, togetherness and bonding among us and I think this will be there forever. Suddenly, my phone rang, and I realized to finish my tea. I took my bag and keys and headed towards the main gate to start a new day with faith, fresh dreams and new aspirations.

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REMINISCENCES

PARIS ATTACK: The November 2015 Paris attacks consisting of mass shootings, suicide bombings and hostage taking was the worst attack in France since World War II . There were three suicide bombings outside the State de France, along with mass shootings and another suicide bombing at four locations near Central Paris. The attacks killed 130 people, 89 of whom were at the Bataclan theatre. 352 people were admitted to hospital with injuries sustained in the attacks, including 80 described as being critically injured. The attacks were the deadliest in Europe since the Madrid train bombings in 2004.

CLEAN CHIT: On December 10, Salman was given a clean chit in the 2002 hit and run case with the court observing that the main witness was ‘wholly unreliable’ and that there were discrepancies in the case. The HC observed that “strong suspicion of guilt cannot be used to hold a person guilty” in its verdict. But the Maharashtra government has decided to move a plea against the acquittal of actor in connection with the case.

CHENNAI FLOODS: The 2015 South Indian floods affected the Coromandel Coast region of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, and the union territory of Puducherry, with Tamil Nadu and the city of Chennai particularly hard-hit. More than 400 people were killed and over 18 lakh people were displaced. With estimates of damages and losses ranging from over `20000 crore (US$3 billion) to `100000 crore (US$15 billion). The floods were the costliest to have occurred in 2015, and are among the costliest natural disasters of the year.

The Mileage January, 2016

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RUSSIAN AIRSTRIKE: The Russian military intervention in the Syrian Civil War began on 30 September 2015, following a formal request by the Syrian government for military help against rebel and jihadist groups. The activities consisted of air strikes primarily in north western Syria against militant groups opposed to the Syrian government, including al­Nusra Front (al­Qaeda in the Levant), the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and the Army of Conquest. Russian officials have acknowledged their objective is to help the Syrian government retake territory from various opposition groups, including ISIL, but also groups backed and armed by the United States.

EXTRADITION OF ANUP CHETIA: Bangladesh on 11 November 2015 extradited ULFA general secretary Anup Chetia to India, a demand the Indian government has been pursuing for the last two decades. Chetia had been detained in Bangladesh in 1997 for illegally entering the country using a forged passport, and was found in possession of arms and foreign currencies. A Bangladesh court had then sentenced the militant leader to seven years in prison. Chetia’s deportation follows that of underworld don Chhota Rajan, one of India’s mostwanted criminals, who was on the run for 27 years.

REMINISCENCES

The Mileage January, 2016

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NAGALAND PEACE ACCORD: Six decades after the first armed clashes broke out between Naga rebel groups and Indian security forces, the Government of India has signed a framework agreement with the largest insurgent group from the north-eastern state – the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak­Muivah) – that is intended to end the country’s longest running insurgency. The agreement was signed on 3rd August 2015 in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval by NSCN (IM) leader Thuingaleng Muivah and the government’s interlocutor R N Ravi at the PM’s official residence.

BIHAR ELECTIONS: The 2015 Bihar Elections crowned Nitish Kumar as their Chief Minister once again. This election saw 56.8 % voter turnout which is the highest voter turnout in Bihar assembly polls since 2000. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) emerged as a single largest party with 80 seats, followed by JD (U) with 71 seats and BJP with 53 seats.

In terms of vote share, BJP came first with 24.4%, followed by RJD with 18.4% and JD (U) with 16.8% and Congress got 6.7%. RJD had the best strike rate by winning 80 of the 101 seats contested. RJD became the single largest party in Bihar Assembly. It defeated BJP in 36 seats BJP had won in the last election, similarly it took 24 seats JD (U) had won in the last election.

landmark legislation: The December 16, 2012 gang rape in Delhi triggered major changes in criminal laws in India, especially those dealing with rape. The Rajya Sabha passed the new law to replace the existing provisions that have been in force since 2000. The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill 2015 has been passed by the Rajya Sabha on 22 December 2015. It was introduced in Parliament last year after public outrage because one of the offenders in the 2012 gang rape case was a few months short of 18 years of age. The bill had already been passed by the Lok Sabha in May. The bill allows for juveniles 16 years or older to be tried as adults for heinous offences like rape and murder.

Heinous offences are those which are punishable with imprisonment of seven years or more.

UN CLIMATE SUMMIT: The 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP 21 or CMP 11 was held in Paris, France, from 30 November to 12 December 2015.

The conference negotiated the Paris Agreement, a global agreement on the reduction of climate change, the text of which represented a consensus of the representatives of the 196 parties attending it. The agreement will become legally binding if joined by at least 55 countries which together represent at least 55 percent of global greenhouse emissions. Such parties will need to sign the agreement in New York between 22 April 2016 and 21 April 2017, and also adopt it within their own legal systems (through ratification, acceptance, approval, or accession).

THE SORDID AFFAIRS OF INDRANI MUKHERJEA: In August, 2015 Mumbai Police arrested Sheena Bora’s mother Indrani Mukerjea, her stepfather Sanjeev Khanna and her mother’s driver Shyamvar Pinturam Rai for allegedly abducting and killing her and subsequently burning her corpse. Rai and Khanna confessed to the crime, and Mukerjea had said that Sheena Bora is alive and is in the United States.

In 1986 Indrani met Siddhartha Das with whom she had a daughter, Sheena, in February 1987 and a son, Mikhail, in September 1988. In 1990 Indrani left the children under the care of her parents in Guwahati and moved to Kolkata. A few months after her move to Kolkata, she met Sanjeev Khanna. They got married in 1993 and had a daughter named Vidhie in 1997.

In 2001 they moved to Mumbai. In

2002, Indrani met Peter Mukerjea and moved in with him while awaiting her divorce from Sanjeev Khanna. In November 2002, Indrani married Peter Mukerjea. After this marriage Vidhie Khanna moved in with the Mukerjeas and took the Mukerjea name. In 2005 Indrani introduced her children, Sheena Bora and Mikhail Bora, to Peter as her younger siblings. In 2006 Sheena Bora also moved in with the Mukerjeas. After April 2012, Sheena was not seen again. TMN

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LIfestyle

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13

TM: Tell us about your experience after winning and the reaction on being crowned?

Megha: I didn’t expect to win, but subconsciously I wanted it so hard. There is no doubt that being a part of Fashion Diva Guwahati 2015 is very stressful, but it was worth it. And now I am happy.

TM: Your Journey so far as a model and your childhood dream?

Megha: My first catwalk as a professional model was in 2004 at District Library. Since then, I have been associated with the fashion events. I have done quite a lot of print shoots too for regional magazines TM: How did you get associated with fashion world?

Megha: I don’t remember, how exactly I got associated with it. But I have always been in touch with entertainment world through my Grandfather who is a renowned actor - director in Assamese films. So I knew everyone in this sector right from my childhood.

TM: Tell us about your experience so far from being a fresher to winning it ?

Megha: I had a spectacularly amazing experience right from the day I gave the auditions for Fashion Diva Guwahati 2015. I loved the entire set of people associated with it. They were very warm and encouraging. I would like to extend my gratitude to Chow da (Chow Poran J Gogoi), fitness expert Bibhu Moni Singha and Priyanka Baishya for their limitless dedication towards our betterment.

I would thank Raj and Elan Associates for organising the event.

TM: Any fashions you want to walk the ramp?

Megha: Not in particular. There are many.

sleep is too good! Hahaha.

TM: What’s your fitness mantra?

Megha: Eat healthy, have good thoughts and have a positive attitude. Exercise regularly.

Do not smoke. It’s good not to drink regularly also.

TM: Any plans to act in movies?

Megha: Yes, I have always wanted to become an actor.

TM: What’s your take on zero size models?

Megha: I think that’s a personal choice. I am not a big fan of zero sizes but if a shoot or ad wants it, I will do it.

TM: Who is the man of your dreams?

Megha: There are no man in my dreams. My

TM: Who supports you the most in life?

Megha: My mother is my biggest support.

TM: What are you doing academically or otherwise?

Megha: I am doing my Bachelors of Science in Microbiology, Chemistry and Botany.

And apart from that, I spend most of time in music. I am learning Indian classical Music in Karnataka at present.

TM: Which is your favourite spot in Guwahati or Northeast?

Megha: In Guwahati, my favourite place is my home. As I stay outside and don’t get time at home. Also, I love my school, Maria’s Public School. There are so many beautiful memories of my school life.

TM: What do you love to eat the most?

Megha: I love home food. And I have a sweet tooth and I love Western sweet dishes.

MUSIC

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KS: Kishore ji had an immortal soul and people connote that I have been gifted by the Almighty with the same, so I have an obvious duty to help others who seeks guidance from me in this sector.

Mausam: Do you feel that the industry has potential resources to lift the image and stand up to the cause.

KS: We being Artiste has an extra responsibility to be role model in the process of humanity and nation building. I feel there are many talented potentials but I feel the absence is in their thought process, which is a sign of concern.

Mausam: What according to you LOVE is and have you ever been into?

KS: Without love no person would have emotions and sentiments, without it one would be technical and artificial. Personally love to me is a divine element and always do love the ones to be loved...tor boudi sunle naa...toke bhalodore bujiyete parbo.

Mausam: Welcome to Assam Sanu da after a long time. Do you see any changes in Guwahati?

Kumar Sanu: Nice to meet you again Mausam, Guwahati has always been close to my heart as it is the land of Maa Kamakhya. And yes it has developed a lot and I hope there are more development in the future.

Mausam: Congrats for pairing with Anu Malik once again for an upcoming Bollywood movie. What are your next projects and future plans?

KS: Anu ji has always been an elder brother who guided me in every walk of my career, I owe him the credit of my success. Yes, we are working again and hopefully audience accepts it once again. Regarding upcoming projects, many shows are lined up and playbacks to be done in many regional movies and on a private album commemorating Thakur (Rabindra Nath Tagore).

Mausam: We from Assam expect you to consider to sing some songs in our language too as you have did earlier, which still are into our ear and soul.

KS: Yup, Jitul da (Jitul Sonowal) is a good friend of mine and his association with production house at Music Makers had been my client and me, Alkaji, Uditji, Sadhnaji had contributed in those days...still hoping for it but as per my knowledge the Assamese industry has been badly affected by piracy and no concrete Film Policy and for these reasons

no one is willing to invest and we Artiste has to bear. I am concerned about the matter and do let me know if I can be of any help on my artistic resources.

Mausam: What are your views on present situation of Bollywood and the contributors from North-Eastern region?

KS: Assam has always been a resource into the Industry. The human resource of musicians is maximum imported from the North-East and the recordist in the Industry from this part has been an asset. As such KK, Kalyan Barua, Dhruba Jyoti Phukan, Maina, Amreet Preetam to name a few. I have a dream project to bring an album on rich folk culture, why don’t you take the initiative here I would love to release it in a national platform.

Mausam: What are your views on present trend of fusion and the influence of western pattern into Indian Music Industry?

KS: It disturbs my mind that the industry has been polluted with songs as such 'Char Botal Vodkaa'. The melody culture has been diluted and present day singers are now more into glamour and seeks cheap publicity.

Mausam: Dada as we know you are an all-time Kishore Kumar fan and your body language reflects his inspiration on you, do you care for the others who follow you and help them with your guidance and experience.

Mausam: Any political aspiration and views on present political situation KS: I believe politics has been the backbone of a vibrant democracy and not yet decided to join any ideology but has been invited by many political parties. I think I will not feel comfortable there, moreover I have lots of professional and personal commitments.

Mausam: Dada now time for a Rapid Fire Round.

Number 01- Fav destination: My home with my family.

Number 02: Fav Food: Fish…proud to be a Bengali.

Number 03: Fav Singer (Male and Female) - Kishore Kumar and Asha Bhonsle.

Number 04: Fav Politician: Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

Number 05: Person whom you miss the most- My parents and Satyajit Ray. Mausam: Your message towards the youth and your fans.

KS-Don’t only remain alive...transform yourself by scanning your qualities and contribute to yourself and society in a National spirit.

Mausam-Thanks a ton dada for your valuable time...obliged indeed. Do preserve the same for future too.

KS: Thanks Mausam… I wish The Mileage a grand success in the process of informing and educating the masses. Jai Maa Kamakhya Devi!!!

EVENT

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Maulana Badruddin Ajmal and Radhey Shyam Biswas, both MPs, along with other dignitaries are seen with teachers who received ‘Lifetime Contribution Award’ and Rs 50,000 in cash at the launch of ANREM .

Hema Probha Bordoloi (L), widow of late Hemanta Kumar Bordoloi along with her daughter and son, is seen with Maulana Badruddin Ajmal after receiving financial support on the occasion of launch of ANREM .

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teacher of a government-aided school in Morigaon District of Assam took away his own life in September this year with his family alleging that he was upset over non-payment of salary for the last 18 years. Hemanta Kumar Bordoloi, a teacher of Nabheti Madhya Ingraji School, went missing from his home and three days later his body was found floating in a pond at Nabheti area by the police. On 7th December, 2015, Sunday, on the occasion of the launch of the Ajmal National Rural Education Movement (ANREM), Maulana Badruddin Ajmal, MP & CEO of Ajmal CSR handed over a shawl, a memento, and a cheque of Rs.50,000 to Hema Probha Bordoloi, the widow of the deceased teacher, so that the family might be able to tide over the bad days that they are confronting now. With tears dropping down her eyes, Hema Probha expressed her gratitude to Ajmal and also said that this is the first time that somebody came forward to help their family.

With a view to educating every child in the backward, rural, and interior areas of Assam, ANREM was launched at the D’Royal Auditorium of Royal Global Institute, Guwahati recently.

The launching of ANREM was done by Dr. Mridul Hazarika, Vice Chancellor, Gauhati University. As part of the launch the dignitaries took watering a plant christened as ANREM. Besides launching ANREM, the programme also included presentation of life time contribution award to 20 teachers from different

districts of Assam, who made significant contribution in the education sector. Each of the awardees was handed over a cheque of Rs 50,000 by Ajmal Foundation.

While addressing the function Badruddin Ajmal, MP & CEO, Ajmal CSR, said “We are starting the journey from today. I would like to state that where there are wishes, the same can be fulfilled through hard work and perseverance. I have come across many teachers in many places who have sacrificed a lot while imparting education to students. So we decided to give these awards to teachers and not to others. I consider education is the most leading factor to development of the society. Our main aim is to educate

all children for betterment of the society.”

Ajmal further appealed to all to cooperate for the success of ANREM, and thereafter 100 per cent change in the education sector may not be distant cry if everything goes according to plans.

Radhesyam Biswas, MP; Prof Gayatree Goswami, Gauhati University; Dr Shabina Ahmed, founder Director of Assam Autism Foundation; Dr Abdul Qadeer, Secretary, Shaheen Group of Institutions, Bengaluru; Prof Abdul Mannan, Gauhati University; NI Laskar, Project Head, ANREM; and Khasrul Islam, Manager, Ajmal Foundation spoke on the occasion.

A large number of students and teachers from across Assam along with the officials of Ajmal CSR and Friends of ANREM attended the programme.

13 schools were given certificates of partnership under a pilot project of ANREM at the launch. TMN

Maulana Badruddin Ajmal, flanked by Dr Mridul Hazarika, Dr Abdul Qadeer and other dignitaries, is seen watering the ANREM plant at the launch of an education movement.

EVENT

Bijoy Ghimire

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ll Assam Gorkha Kalakar Sangha, established on 23rd December, 2014 had been conducting auditions across Assam for the Gorkha Talent Show of Assam since first of February, 2015. A total of 19 auditions have been organized in different places of Assam. All the selected singers and dancers competed against each other again at the pre final held on 24th of

The Mileage January, 2016

November, 2015 at Bongaigaon District Library. The finale of Gorkha Talent show of Assam is going to be held on 6th and 7st of January, 2016 at GMCH auditorium.

“Though we started in a humble way initially, after every audition the event has grown bigger and bigger and has pulled Gorkhas from not only Assam but also from other Northeastern states. It became a huge plateform for Gorkhas who wanted to showcase their unparalleled talent”, said

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Gopal Khanal, General Secretary, AAGKS. A cultural extravaganza in its own unique way, Gorkha Talent Show of Assam in many ways has helped the Gorkhas of Assam get united and got together showcasing rich cultural show of Gorkhas.

Indra Kanta Karki, President AAGKS says, “Gorkha Talent Show of Assam indeed has become a pristine attempt towards preserving and consolidating rich cultural heritage of Gorkhas in Assam”.

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ssam ITF (International Taekwon-do Federation) Taekwondoists begged two silver and 7 bronze medals for the state in the recently concluded 30th ITF Nationals and 6th IMGC (International Martial Arts Games Council) championships in Thyagraj Indoor stadium in New Delhi.

The championship held from 4th to 6th December 2015.

Mr. Uday Das for his 2nd Dan Black Belt, Mr. Aditya Chakravarti, Mr. Aditya Bothra, and Mr. Karan Bothra for 1st Dan Black Belt were felicitated for their respective achievements. They had appeared their black belt exam in Goa on September 2015.

TMN Photo Courtesy : Debojit Dey

EVENT

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two day media fest titled CONVENSTER 2015 organized by the Mass Communication Department of Asian Institute of Management and Technology (AIMT) was held on 2nd and 3rd December 2015 at the premises of the institute. The media fest comprised events like PICTOGRAM’15, an annual photography exhibition cum competition, CURTAIN RAISER, a documentary screening cum interactive session and IGNITED V, a panel discussion that brings the best minds from various fields to deliberate on issues of societal relevance.

PICTOGRAM’15 held on the 2nd and 3rd of December as part of CONVENSTER 2015 is a brainchild of Mass Communication department of AIMT since it has been observed as an annual photography event for the last three years. The themes for this year includes Incredible Northeast, Sacred Vows and Seasons. The exhibition was inaugurated by eminent photographer Mr. Manas Paran, who was awarded the Best Photojournalist Award 2013

by National Press Photographers’ Association. Priyankshu Paul from K.C. Das Commerce College), Amit Bhowmik and Prantik Borah both from AIMT were adjudged the 1st, 2nd and 3rd winners respectively.

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CURTAIN RAISER held on the second half of 2nd December is a documentary film screening cum interactive session where students of Mass Communication department, screened few of their productions. Two times National Award winning filmmaker, Gautam Bora graced the event as the Guest of Honour. The event also screened two of his works “Sons of Abotani” and “The Old Man’s River” and it was followed by an interactive session with the students. The session also screened some of the documentary films made by the students of the institute. An award for the Best Documentary was also given by Gautam Bora which was eventually a tie between two films, “Dumping Green” and “Calling of the Ages”.

The second day of the media fest featured a panel discussion IGNITED V on the topic “Mass Media as a catalyst for Social Change”. The panellists of the seminar were Rajiv Bhattacharya, Senior Journalist and Writer, Dr. Akashitora, Actor, Writer and Journalist, Ravishankar Ravi, Senior Journalist, Litterateur and Monalisha Saikia, Writer and Social Activist. A special award titled “Upcoming Journalist of Assam” awarded to Sazadul Rana Hussain of Pratidin Times was a special attraction to the event. Pranay Bordoloi, Senior Journalist, Managing Editor DY 365, Maini Mahanta, Writer and Editor: Nandini, Manoram Gogoi, Senior Journalist and Academician were the Jury members for selection of the award. The seminar was chaired by Mr. Debojyoti Sarma Borbora, Assistant Professor, AIMT. The media fest ended with a cultural programme performed by the students of the Department of Mass Communication. TMN Photo Courtesy : Manash Baishya

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ccidental deaths have assumed epidemic proportions in Northeast, causing thousands of trauma and emergency cases. To meet the pressing need of trauma care in Northeast, GNRC Hostipals in association with Singapore General Hospital successfully conducted an Integrated Health Care Clinical Specialist Training.

Participants, aspiring to enhance lifesaving skills for trauma

injuries, from nursing educational institutes and hospitals of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Nagaland attended the event to equip themselves with these advanced technical skills. The training course was on principles of General Trauma Management and focused on emergency, trauma, neurology and patient safety. The training was conducted at GNRC Medical North Guwahati on November 24-17, 2015. TMN

EVENT

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r & Miss Enlighten 2015, Guwahati is an initiative ideated by Team Enlighten on its first anniversary. It was held on 12th December 2015 at Jyoti Chitraban, Film City, Kahilipara, Guwahati. The theme of the event was depicting women empowerment through Fashion. An exclusive photo exhibition was also organized on the social issues of Assam through Fashion. Event was graced with eminent personalities like Assamese Film Actress Nishita Goswami, Fashion Designer Anandita among others. Mr. Sayan Kr Dey & Miss Trishna Bharali won Mr & Miss Enlighten 2015 respectively, followed by first runner up Mr. Palash Jyoti Dutta & Miss Helina Basumatary and second runner up Mr. Sisam Raj Chakraborty & Miss Sanjana Das. TMN

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ENTERTAINMENT

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ollywood star Akshay Kumar is all set to share screen with Tamil superstar Rajinikanth in the sequel of sci-fi film “Robot” (Enthiran 2.0).

The 48-year-old ‘Baby’ actor took to social media to announce the news and said he is very excited to end his 2015 on a high note. “Ending the year on a high note! Super excited to be a part of Robot 2 with the one & only @superstarrajini sir!”

Hollywood action star Arnold Schwarzenegger, best known for playing Terminator, was in talks for the role. But things did not materialise.

Akshay’s “Singh Is Bliing” co-star Amy Jackson plays the female lead in the movie.

The film is already on floors. Director Shankar twitted on December 15, “2.0 shoot starts from tomorrow.. Excited!!!

5Th JanuaryDeepika Padukone

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et your gears on! Yash Raj Films have announced the fourth instalment of their most popular Dhoom franchise. According to the sources, Hrithik Roshan is returning after Dhoom 2 and Senior Bachchan will join Junior Bachchan, Abhishek, in the franchise for the first time.

Says a reliable source, “At the moment it is not very clear where Victor is going with this. All that is confirmed is that Aditya Chopra and Victor have approached and signed Mr. Bachchan and Hrithik.” The official Twitter handle of Yash Raj Films tweeted, “It’s time for an adrenaline rush.

Stay tuned! #DhoomReloaded”

1St January Vidya Balan

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anbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif have been in a relationship since quite some time. They have also been living together in a swanky apartment in Mumbai’s Bandra locality.

However, as sad as it may sound, their relationship might just meet a sad end. According to a report, Ranbir and Katrina are headed for a breakup. The report mentions that the couple has been having differences ever since Ranbir went on a promotional spree with his ex­girlfriend Deepika Padukone for their film Tamasha.

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he first teaser for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Mirzya is out and debutant actor has left us wanting for more! Mirzya starring Harshvardhan Kapoor, brother of Sonam Kapoor and Saiyyami Kher who will make their grand debuts with the film this year.

Mirzya is an epic love story that plays out in contemporary times – inspired by the folk tale of the legend of Mirza – Sahiban. The film unfolds filled with heightened drama & action packed sequences in the larger than life visual terrain of Rajasthan, juxtaposed with flashes of the fantastical universe of the folklore. While the teaser hardly gives out anything about the film, it does prepare the viewers for the scale, the grandeur that we are going to witness with the trailer and obviously the film that hits screens on May 13 this year. And what it definitely shows is the point that Sonam Kapoor’s baby brother Harshvardhan Kapoor has it all to become the next Gen-Y icon for sure.

Compiled by : Saibal Krishna Sharma

6Th JanuaryA. R. Rahman

9Th JanuaryFarhan Akhtar

10Th JanuaryHrithik Roshan

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CHAT ZONE

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Photo Courtesy : Akash Harizan

different aspects of beauty and keeping oneself healthy. I then left my job and started Signature Training Centre.

TM: Do you have your own beauty products to be used by salons and common people?

Madhumita: We do manufacture some products exclusively to be used by our training centre but we don’t market it elsewhere.

TM: What was that which propelled you to delve deep into the world of beautifying?

Madhumita: Beauty lies in everything. Though I belonged from a small village in Tinsukia, I always had the desire to do something different during my childhood. Once I was fascinated to see the eye makeup of Zeenat Aman in a commercial ad. Gradually I developed an interest in this field and here I am today.

TM: How did Signature Training Centre happened?

Madhumita: It was not planned. I used to be the instructress at ITI for women. After 11 years of service I found some inadequacy and some loopholes in the beautician course curriculum. During that time people looked down upon beautician and this fascinating profession. So, I decided to do something of my own to reorient the perception of the people towards this wonderful field. In the mean time I started writing in different newspapers about

TM: You also have an expertise in Ayurvedic Massage Techniques. Your take on the importance of massage.

Madhumita: My favorite subject is massage.

I like giving massage and I like taking massage.

Massage is something which soothes you even when you are giving it to someone and the one who is taking it gets de-stressed. It is a two way process. It has aesthetic attributes and is very important.

TM: What is the employability in this sector?

Madhumita: There is huge job prospects in this field. Beauticians today have enormous value and people flock around beauticians. Around 94% trainees get placed after the completion of their respective courses at Signature Training Centre.

TM: Tell us briefly about the remarkable journey of Signature Awards which takes place every year.

Madhumita: Long time back I had conceived an idea about makeup and hair competition and had shared the idea with some of my colleagues

and friends. But I was mocked at my idea.

And when somebody undermines my ideas and views I take it as a challenge. With some suggestions from my close associates I started this competition some 18 years back which is today popularly known Signature Awards.

TM: Besides being a beauty educationist and a social entrepreneur, you are also a prolific writer. How do you manage time?

Madhumita: (Smiles) I use my time judiciously. And I feel like giving vent to my views and thought process. Besides writing few books on beauty I have written six novels and few more are in the pipeline.

TM: What do you have to say about numerous fashion shows that are being organized these days?

Madhumita: This indeed is a good trend and I am positive about it. People have come forward and have put forward their ideas. Models have got opportunities to showcase their talents.

Dress designers have got the opportunity to display their creativity and collections. But these shows will have to be organized more methodically and systematically.

TM: Your advice to all those aspiring youths who want to make mark in the glamour world.

Madhumita: There is no short cut. To sustain in this industry, one should consistently work on those aspects of beauty which are beneficial to the society. One would immediately see his or her downfall in this industry if money becomes the only objective.

FACEs OF THE MONTH

Name - Rahul Kalita Age- 24 Height- 6’2” Hobbies- Travelling And Playing Football And Cricket Photographer- Kamal Dey

Name: Saswati Reang Height: 5’3” Vital Stats: 32-26-32 Make up: Bidyut Borgohain Hobbies: Travelling, Dancing, Walking on ramp Achievement: 1st runner up & Miss Congeniality at t2 glam face 2015 Guwahati.

Photographer: Pranab Barman

Those who are interested to participate in THE MILEAGE face of the month contest , February Issue can contact : +91 8011412178, 9707587766

The Mileage July, 2015

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RNI REGD NO. ASSENG/2014/57506

ISSN: 2394-3610

POSTAL REGISTRATION NO. GH/150/2015-2017

Date of Publication: 28-12-2015