Bit aug 13

Indian Times

Brisbane

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 10, Number 11 Saturday, August 10, 2013

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DATE: MONDAY 7TH OCTOBER ALLPHONES ARENA, SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK

descending upon Sydney On Monday 7th October at Allphones Arena, Sydney Olympic Park.

The visually spectacular “ N RELOADED ” w ill be the biggest Bollywood production Australia has ever seen. “ T h e King of Bollywood” a n d India’s No.1 ranked film star SHAHRUKH KHAN will headline this milestone concert. Los Angeles Times referred to him as “ t h e world’s biggest movie star ” , and Newsweek namedlike himyou as one the 50 most powerful people in ollywood haveofnever experienced the world.

SHAHRUKH KHAN stage will be leading before Joining will be descending upononSydney.

Bollywood actresses (yet to be announced) plus cast and crew th Monday October at Allphones Arena, of On 110, making7 this a variety show like no other. This Sydney Olympic Park. state The -ofvisually extravaganza will showcase -the-art production, mindblowing visuals and stunningRELOADED” costume changes, setting the spectacular “TEMPTATION

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will be the biggest Bollywood production ever seen. “The King of Bollywood” India’s film glamour of Bollywood as Prepare your and senses forNo.1 the ranked glitz and star spectacular SHAHRUKHstage KHAN will headline this production comes to Sydney as part of thisParramatta's milestone concert.

Los FESTIVAL Angeles on Labour Day, Monday the PARRAMASALA 7 Times October.

Withtothim ickets starting from $99, it is advisable to referred as “the world’s book early as the showand will sell-out fast. biggest movie star”, Newsweek named of himNewas South one of the and 50 Minister most Premier Wales for Western powerful people in the world.

Sydney, BARRY O'FARRELL today announced that New South Wales

has ever seen.

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has secured "The King Of Bollywood" SHAHRUKH KHAN to visit • Full details page 6 the Indian variety show of music, dance Sydney and headline

Nando’s Mt Gravatt - Palmdale S/C, 2120 Logan Rd. Ph: 3420 6644

Telephone: (07) 3356 0102 Fax:(07) 3352 7693 E-mail admin@indiantimes.com.au

From the Publisher WELCOME to August a the month of Ramadan, Ekka, Eidfest and India Day fair, celebrating Indian Independence day.

To all our Muslim brothers and sisters congratulations on observing the Holy Month of Ramadan, and I hope your Eid was joyous.

Locally I have the opportunity of attending so many functions, many meaningful and purposeful interactions, I spoke at tow of DIAC events the first one being, parents in leadership forum, and the second being Community leaders forum. Both the sessions were well attended and as a People of Australia Ambassador I was honoured to have presented at both the events.

The major topics have been the debate of the Asylum seekers and the increasing number of boats arrivals. The debate around the Papua New Guinea solution, the question is whether Australia is shying away from its obligations under the provisions on the UN Convention.

One cannot deny that the system was fraught and is being abused, there are genuine refugees but there are also economic refugees who have just being abusing the system. The question of how much is it going to cost and for how long?

There seems to be confusion around the announcement of a proposed detention centre in the Hunter Valley region, which seems to be contradicting the statement that all asylum seekers would be resettled in Paua New Guinea. The legal and moral challenges faced by authorities is huge and will have an ongoing impact. This whole exercise has taken the focus off other important and pertinent issues, it has become a political point scoring exercise for both parties. The election date seems to be the 7th of September, one week earlier than previously announced, the budget blowout in the economic statement issued by government has been highly criticised.

On the community scene, GOPIO Queensland is celebrating India’s Independence day (India Day Fair) on 11

August. It’s the third India Day fair and this year’s function is poised to be a the largest so far with a record number of stalls. A full days cultural programs finishing off with fireworks spectacular. The venue remains the prestigious Roma Street Parklands Amphitheatre. Families can make a day out at the park, enjoy the festivities and Indian food. The event is totally free and open to all.

Dr Farvardin and his team is gearing up for Cultural Fest and diversity Conference in Townsville while GOPIO International is busy planning the GOPIO Biennial convention in Sydney. I am assisting with the Townsville conference and am the convenor of the GOPIO Biennial convention to be held on 9th November in Sydney.

Brisbane City Council has launched a monthly multicultural celebration in China town Mall. The first one in July was the multicultural Festival, one in August is Indian Independence Day celebration, and one in October will be Diwali.

Brisbane is also gearing up for Eidfest on 17th August, the largest public function promoting Muslim culture to wider community, Yasmin Khan and her team always present this function in a very professional manner.

August is also the month of Krishna Janam Astami and multiple events have been organised throughout Queensland, please refer to our upcoming section for fill details.

I will finish off by mentioning that two of Bollywood’s greatest are about to visit Australia, A. R Rahman and King Khan Shah Rukh Khan, both shows will be sold out function. Shah Rukh Khans announcement has caused a lot of media hype and people waiting anxiously and cannot believe that he is actually coming here with his reloaded show during Paramasala. I am sure both the shows will do well, enough from me now.

Until next Month, Happy Reading Umesh Chandra.

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• Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4 • Local News.................................5-23 • Business News...........................24-25 • Who, What, Where, When...26 & 28 • Health & Well Being................34-37 • Astrology.........................................36 • Real Estate...............................38-41 • Business Directory/Classifieds...42-44 • What’s On.................................44-47 • Bollywood & Entertainment...48-49 • Sport..........................................50-51 2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August 2013

TOWNSVILLE Cultural Fest is reaching new heights this year, with the announcement of its headline acts including top Australian musicians and performers.

Demonstrating the diversity of this fiveday event enjoyed on Townsville’s Strand Park, the lead act include Jebediah frontman and now solo artist Bob Evans, Brisbane indie-pop band Hungry Kids of Hungary and Sydney’s alternative rock sensation Sticky Fingers, as well as highly regarded forerunners of Australian HipHop, Impossible Odds.

These national drawcards will run alongside the events the annual Townsville Cultural Fest is known and loved for in its celebration of unity in diversity: song, dance, poetry and food from across all the diverse cultural influences that give Australia its unique culture; workshops as wid-ranging as coconut husking, bellydancing, and drum-making; and sporting competitions in beach cricket and beach soccer, making the most of the coastal set-

ting.

Event manager Erfan Daliri, a celebrated writer and performance poet, says the festival has matured over its 19 years and is now attracting crowds from across the country, so the new acts are meeting this interest as well as attracting a new audience to Townsville.

“This event started 19 years ago as a half day event as a platform to celebrate the diversity of Australian society. Today it has grown into a five day celebration that attracts tens of thousands of people to its stages to enjoy some of the finest entertainment from across the country,” Erfan says.

The Townsville Cultural Fest runs from 14 to 18 August. It is an alcohol-free family event, aimed at encouraging access with its low $10 day ticket price. The festival is a not-for-profit event organised by the Townsville Intercultural Centre.

For full event detail visit www.culturalfest.org

Queensland Telugu Association QTA Management Committee would like to inform you that AGM (Annual General Body meeting) will be conducted on 25 August 2013 1.

During this time, elections for management Committee 2013-14 also will be conducted.

The venue, exact schedule and procedure for the elections will be communicated by the returning officers.

2.

On our request Prof D. Prasada Rao garu and Prof M. R. Krishna Rao Garu have consented to be the returning officers.

They will organize the elections as per revised constitution.

3.

As per the revised constitution, nominations to Mediation Committee will also be organized with approval from General body of the association.

4.

Annual accounts, other agenda items and any other points that may come up for discussion subject to permission of chair, will be presented to the general body for approval before the elections.

All the members are requested to actively participate in the proceedings and express their views for the benefit of the Telugu community.

Venue is to be confirmed, for more information / updates please visit www.qldteluguassociation.org www.facebook.com/queenslandtelugu.australia or email qldteluguasn@gmail.com Thanking you, Management committee

Please contact

Ph: (07) 3711 6040 Fax: (07) 3711 6141

Inside

Townsville Cultural Fest

Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: Trudi Tarres EDITOR: Trudi Tarres JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS: Ram Jattan (UK) Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) Sudesh Aggarwal (ATO News) ML. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi Imam Muhammad Aslam Sundar Gopal Das Yadavendra Das Pastor Joseph Dass Haji Abdul Rahman Deen Janeth Deen Jitendra Deo Atul Dighe (Spiritual Science Research Foundation) Mehraban Farahmand (Baha’i International)

BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES SEPTEMBER 13 DEADLINES Ad Bookings - 30 August 13 Editorial Submissions - 2 Sept 13

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Brisbane Indian Times is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Brisbane Indian Times, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in Brisbane Indian Times are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Brisbane Indian Times. Brisbane Indian Times will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply/approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 3

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations New Skills Occupations Lists - Post 1 July 2013 applications CHANGES have been introduced by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship for occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and the Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL).

Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 form the Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL) applies to both State/Territory nominated Points Tested visas, the Direct Entry stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme, the Temporary Work (Skilled) visa, the Occupational Trainee stream of the Training and Research visa and the Occupational Trainee visa.

1. Occupations moved from SOL (Sch1)

to Schedule 2 of the CSOL: - Hospital Pharmacist, - Retail Pharmacist, - Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics), Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical) and Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures).

2. Occupation added to SOL (Sch1): - Registered Nurse (Paediatrics) and its assessing authority the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC).

3. Occupations and their assessing authorities added to Schedule 2 of the CSOL: - Procurement Manager (assessing authority Australian Institute of Management) - Nutritionist, Intellectual Property Lawyer, Archaeologist, Hydrographer and Kennel Hand (assessing authority VETASSESS).

4. Occupation removed from Sch 2 of CSOL: - Anatomist or Physiologist 5. Change of assessing authority: - Primary Health Organisation Manager from ANMAC to VETASSESS 6. Addition of assessing authority Australian Community Workers Association as an assessing authority for the occupation of Welfare Centre Manager.

Retrospective Changes for SC457 Visas Lodged prior 1 July 2013 In our last article we advised of significant changes to the SC457 visa program, which included amendments to all undecided applications as at 1 July 2013 in particle the requirement to satisfy English language requirements for all occupations still undecided. DIAC has now advised of the following retrospective changes in respect of the English language requirements for Subclass 457 visas: 1. Applicants who applied for Subclass 457 visas before 1 July 2013, and who were exempt from the English language requirement, will not be required to pro-

vide evidence of English language proficiency.

2. English language requirements for Subclass 457 visa applicants will now continue to be a “time of decision” requirement and are not required at the time of application.

These two changes will be made through an amendment to legislation and will take effect from 1 August 2013. Applications which were lodged prior to 1 July which would have been exempt from the English language requirement at that time of application on the basis of their nominated occupation will be finalised by the Department after 1 August when the legislation takes effect.

Another change DIAC adopted post 1 July 2013, was a policy that all applicants nominated in the occupations of Program and Project Administrator and Specialist Manager nec must undertake a skills assessment. This new policy will not be mandatory for applications that were lodged prior to 1 July 2013. However DIAC may still request a skills assessment on a case by case basis in circumstances where the Department is unclear about whether an applicant has suitable skills for the position based upon the information provided in the application. The case officers may invite the applicants to submit a formal skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.

New laws which were passed by the parliament on 28 June, as part of the Migration Amendment (Temporary Sponsored Visas) Act 2013 will require employers to look locally first by undertaking labour market testing. A date of commencement for these laws has not yet been proclaimed, and the laws are not expected to come into effect before November 2013.

Increase to Income Threshold levels From 1 July 2013, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), will be indexed by 4.8 %. This will increase TSMIT from $51,400 to $53,900. The

increase to the TSMIT will apply to all nomination applications which are decided on or after 1 July 2013, regardless of lodgement date.

Standard business sponsors are required to pay their overseas workers the market salary rate. The increase to TSMIT means that where the market rate for a position is less than $53 900, the position cannot be nominated under the subclass 457 program.

Increase to the English Language Salary Exemption Threshold (ELSET) In line with the increase to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold the high income exemption to the English Language Salary Exemption Threshold (also known as the ‘high-income exemption’) will also be indexed by 4.8 per cent.

The ELSET will increase from $92 000 to $96 400 for all subclass 457 visa applications decided on or after 1 July 2013.

Application of the Fraud Public Interest Criterion 4020 across all Family Stream visas From 1 July 2013 all applicants for a Family Stream visa must satisfy the Fraud Public Interest Criterion (PIC) 4020. The Fraud PIC 4020 applies to all new applications and applications lodged before 1 July 2013 which have not yet been finalised.

This includes decisions currently under review.

Applications may be refused if the application includes bogus documents or information that is false or misleading. This includes information given by you, a member of your family or a third party acting on your behalf. You and your family may also be subject to a three year bar which might prevent the grant of certain other visas. If you have lodged an application for a visa, your application will be subject to an assessment under the Fraud PIC 4020. The Fraud PIC 4020 applies to all undecided applications lodged prior to 1 July 2013 which have not yet been finalised.

Continued page 6

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 5

Urban Agent Events Presents in association with Destination NSW proudly announce

“The Visually Spectacular”

“TEMPTATION RELOADED” “The biggest Bollywood production Australia has ever seen”

Headlining “The King of Bollywood” SHAHRUKH KHAN DATE: MONDAY 7TH OCTOBER - ALLPHONES ARENA, SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK From page 1 JOINING SHAHRUKH KHAN on stage will be leading Bollywood actresses (yet to be announced) plus cast and crew of 110, making this a variety show like no other.

This extravaganza will showcase state-ofthe-art production, mind-blowing visuals and stunning costume changes, setting the stage on fire in the biggest Bollywood production this country has ever seen.

Prepare your senses for the glitz and glamour of Bollywood as this spectacular stage production comes to Sydney as part of the Parramatta’s PARRAMASALA FESTIVAL on Labour Day, Monday 7th October. With tickets starting from $99, it is advisable to book early as the show will sell-out fast.

Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Western Sydney, BARRY O’FAR-

RELL today announced that New South Wales has secured “The King Of Bollywood” SHAHRUKH KHAN to visit Sydney and headline the Indian variety show of music, dance and comedy as part of Parramatta’s PARRAMASALA FESTIVAL. “‘TEMPTATION RELOADED’ delivers upon a recommendation of the Visitor Economy Industry

Action Plan, by offering a unique cultural experience, appealing to international markets and market segments, and it is a great event for Western Sydney with many hotels and restaurants in the area expected to reap the tourism rewards,” Mr O’Farrell said.

“With SRK’s huge appeal and this spectacular performance, 14,000 lucky people will experience unique and exciting entertainment,” Destination NSW CEO SANDRA CHIPCHASE said. “SRK’s fans won’t be disappointed, and Sydney won’t disappoint the fans who’ll travel here to see this superstar perform.”

“The past two years have been a labour of love as we’ve worked tirelessly to bring this

www.temptationreloaded.com.au Sripad Bhakti Vedanta Siddhanti Maharaja lecture at UQ Multifaith Chaplaincy ON 1 August Sripad Bhakti Vedanta Siddhanti Maharaja delivered a lecture on “Why we are here in this world”, based on the unique teaching of Bhagwad Gita. He said, “before we go into the topic we should first understand who are we?” He spoke on the relationship and also the difference in the body, mind and soul.

Umesh Chandra, Hindu Chaplain at University of Queensland Multifaith Centre welcomed Sripad Bhakti Vedanta Siddhanti Maharaja with garland, and welcomed everyone to the lecture, he also moderated the question and answer section at the end of the lecture.

Sripad Bhakti Vedanta Siddhanti Maharaja grew up and studied in New Delhi. After graduating as a Chartered Accountant, Maharaja decided to spend

some time in the holy land of Vrndavana.

After meeting his spiritual master he decided to give up everything. He mainly stayed in Vrndavana for about 15 years, getting

trained by his spiritual masters.

During this time he was also heavily involved in the publication of scriptures into the Hindi language.

He was given sannyasa, the renounced order, in November 2010.

Since then he has been travelling all over India spreading the message of Bhagavat Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. He has recently visited China and Hong Kong giving this message and showing that this message is universal to all and not just restricted to India or Indians.

He has established a small centre near New Delhi where he is training the residents in the spiritual path.

Sripad Bhakti Vedanta Siddhanti Maharaja held discourses at various locations in Brisbane, including Shree Laxmi Narayan temple on Sunday 4th August.

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show to NSW. With a travel party of over 110, spectacular stage production, and the biggest Bollywood stars, it will be the first time we’ve seen such an extravagant event,” UAE Co-Founder and Promoter RITCHIE PERERA said.

“It was a coup for us to secure such a stellar line-up for this milestone event. We’re so excited to be a part of Temptation Reloaded, it’s a privilege to bring Shahrukh Khan and this event to the wider Community,” UAE Co-Founder and CoPromoter ERIC WOO added.

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Continued from page 4 Changes to Prospective Marriage Visas (Subclass 300) DIAC have introduced some changes to the Prospective Marriage visa subclass, mainly in relation to the age requirements for both the visa applicants and the sponsor. The new Regulations will include the following changes: - Increase the minimum age for applicants and sponsors of a Prospective Marriage visa to 18 years of age at the time of application.

- Remove the ability for a parent or guardian to sponsor an applicant for a Prospective Marriage visa on behalf of the prospective spouse who is under the age of 18; - Clarify that an applicant for a Prospective Marriage visa and a prospective spouse must have met since turning 18 and are known to each other personally in order for the applicant to be eligible for the grant of a Prospective Marriage visa; and; - Remove the provision allowing a Prospective Marriage visa to be granted where either the applicant or prospective spouse is under 18, on the basis that an Australian court order has been granted authorising the marriage, or that the Minister is satisfied that the underage individual will turn 18 prior to the intended marriage; The previous Migration Regulations followed the Marriage Act 1961 and allowed the Prospective Marriage visa to be granted to a person under the age of 18, provided they would turn 18 by the time the intended marriage took place, or they had permission from an Australian court to marry if they are under 18. This allowed applicants and sponsors to be under 18 years of age when applying for the visa and when the visa was granted. In these cases, the prospective spouse‘s parent or guardian had to sponsor the visa applicant. The Migration Regulations also required the applicant and prospective spouse to have met and be known to each other personally.

It did not, however, specify that the couple needed to have met in person since turning 18. This allowed for persons who only met in person as children to apply for and be granted the visa.

The amendments also address a recent the Senate Committee Inquiry’s concern to ensuring that both parties to a Prospective Marriage Visa application genuinely consent to a marriage by ensuring that both visa applicant and sponsor are of marriageable age and legally able to consent to the marriage before they are able to lodge a valid visa application.

This article is intended to provide general information on migration issues and does not constitute migration advice, and no responsibility is accepted by Kiran Goel or AIEES for the accuracy of material appearing in the Brisbane Indian Times.

(Ms Kiran Goel MARN: 0639149) Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 7

We have it now! Our dream Hindu Cultural Precinct on the shores of Gold Coast THERE are just a lot of reasons to celebrate. We had a dream of building a Hindu Educational and Cultural precinct in the midst of the buzzing Gold Coast. We are one step closer to fulfilling our dream. We have the Gold Coast City Council land in Arundel, Gold Coast.

Nothing happens unless first a dream Carl Sandburg This is yet another achievement for the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association. We are headed in the right direction and it’s inspiring, all our successes must be celebrated and form as stepping stones. This is a critical milestone for the GCHCA and the wider Hindu community in South East Queensland. The Gold Coast community is very excited.

We have a dream, we have the land, we have the building designs – We are all set to go!

WE NEED YOU NOW, everyone of you to walk the last mile with us holding hands, praying, singing and dancing. You have donated over $320k in the last 7 months and we need much more to build your dream. Please join us, become a Founder Member – be part of this piece of history.

This is your golden opportunity, as applications for the Founder Membership will cease forever after September 13th 2013.

If you would like to join us as a Founder member or be involved in some other capacity, please contact our Secretary Mr. S. Indrajit (email: gchcan@gmail.com Mobile: 0434 600 814).

We are very excited to step into the new financial year and are hoping for new opportunities and growth. The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) wishes that everyone be blessed with the very best for the rest of this year. We are

• Gold Coast City Council Land – area in red allocated to GCHCA

getting excellent support from well-wishers and patrons all over Australia and overseas.

Thank you for everyone, who has generously donated to the worthy cause before the end of financial year and benefited from the tax rebate. We are delighted to report that with the support of the wider community our current bank balance has reached over $320,000 in cash, which has encouraged us to be more dedicated towards accomplishing the goals. We are fortunate enough to be surrounded by like-minded people, who have similar vision and objectives to pro-

mote the values of Hindu culture and classical languages.

One of the objectives of the GCHCA is to promote Indian languages through educating the younger generations, who are on the verge of losing their cultural identity. As parents, it is our obligation to provide the opportunity for our children to learn our culturally enriched languages. Learning new languages is an art and it is proved that knowing more languages enable the children with significant benefits. While we encourage our children to learn foreign languages such as French, Japanese, and Mandarin etc, if we provide opportunity for them to learn their mother tongue it would

enormously assist them to easily understand and value our rich culture, heritage and religion. Because of the inherent advantage that we give them daily exposure, learning the mother tongue will relatively be an easy task for them.

With an intention to fulfill the religious, educational and cultural needs of the emerging Hindu community, the GCHCA is building a Hindu Education and Cultural Precinct in the Gold Coast. The construction of this precinct is our investment for the younger generations, who will be able to appreciate and enjoy our traditional Hindu values in the future. We invite the Hindu community in South East Queensland to join the GCHCA as Founder members or Life members and support the noble objectives of the Association.

We are currently in the process of preparing the documents, concept designs and drawings for this project. We welcome professionals like, architects, town planners, quantity surveyors, engineers (from various disciplines) and trades personnel, who can support the project by volunteering their expertise. We seek financial assistance from the community and every cent donated will make a difference towards fulfilling the vision of the Association. Please support by making tax deductible donations through credit card or bank transfer - visit our website (www.GoldCoastHindu.org) for more information and to donate online.

The GCHCA Building Donation Account: BSB: 064-474 Account: 1048 8900.

GCHCA holds monthly Bajans on the third Friday of every month from 7.15pm to 9.15pm at the Helensvale Community Centre, 31 Discovery Drive, Helensvale.

We will be having our next Bajan on the 16th of August 2013.

Everyone is welcome to join.

Mr Rathinam Srinivasan Treasurer / GCHCA

Councils to zoom in on crime

“Caveat emptor: All advertisements included in our publication are in accordance to the disclaimer statement on page 2.”

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

THE Newman Government is focussing on public safety and security by funding a major expansion to closed circuit camera networks in several Queensland towns and cities.

Local Government Minister David Crisafulli said eight councils, including Brisbane, Logan and the Gold Coast, would share in nearly $1.5 million to increase CCTV coverage in known crime hot spots.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re out in Fortitude Valley, dining in Surfers Paradise, or walking in a park in Logan, we all deserve to feel safe when we’re out and about,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“Queenslanders love a good time and value our public infrastructure, and we are working closely with councils and police to crack down on assaults and vandalism to make sure our lifestyle isn’t trashed by mindless hoodlums.”

Brisbane City Council received $350,000 from the Newman Government towards the Council’s $900,000 upgrade of the CBD and Fortitude Valley’s CCTV cameras.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said this would include upgrading the 64 existing cameras in the CBD and Fortitude Valley to a more reliable digital technology and installing additional cameras at a further seven Valley hotspots.

Cr Quirk thanked the Newman Government for the grant, which he said was another example of how the two levels of government were working together to create a safer city and state.

“Brisbane has a reputation as a safe and friendly city at home and abroad and I am dedicated to working with the Newman Government to ensure that continues through important initiatives such as this,” Cr Quirk said.

“A safe city is also essential to boosting economic development opportunities and www.indiantimes.com.au

these improved CCTV cameras send a clear message that anti-social behaviour is not tolerated in Brisbane.

“This is particularly a win for businesses in our premier shopping and entertainment precincts and will go hand-in-hand with other council initiatives such as our multimillion upgrade of the Valley Mall and graffiti and litter crackdowns.”

Cr Quirk said Brisbane City Council had consulted the Queensland Police, Valley Economic Development Board and Queen Street Mall Advisory Board about its plans to upgrade the CCTV network and all had lent their support.

On the Gold Coast, the council received $215,862 to help purchase and install 20 new cameras in entertainment precincts at Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Southport and Coolangatta.

Logan City Council received $134,272 for five extra cameras to deter crime in areas of Logan and Woodridge.

Moreton Bay Regional Council received $100,000 to help upgrade its CCTV control room and install cameras at Dickson Park, Morayfield and the Caboolture Region Environmental Education Centre at Burpengary.

Security camera systems will also be expanded in four regional areas with $450,000 going to Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council, $80,000 to Fraser Coast Regional Council, $58,000 to Southern Downs Regional Council and $25,760 to Toowoomba Regional Council.

“Councils are getting better by the day at preventing crime by identifying areas that need closer scrutiny,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“The only people that should be worried are those who set out to assault or intimidate others or damage and destroy public assets that we all end up paying for.”

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Tax compliance focus for the year ahead Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal PROFIT shifting, tax crime and misuse of trusts are key areas of focus for the ATO this year while providing more contemporary services to help people with their tax and super affairs.

The ATO in July released its Compliance in focus program, to inform the community of key risks and issues in Australia’s tax and superannuation systems and how the ATO will address them.

“We know most Australians do the right thing and our focus is on helping people comply,” Second Commissioner Bruce Quigley said.

“This year, we have a range of new contemporary services for individuals and businesses, including phone apps and interactive online help and support.

“However, we take firm action against people who cheat the system. Compliance in focus sets out what’s attracting our attention and how we intend to deal with it.”

Mr Quigley said the community, government and the ATO were concerned about multinational businesses using complex structures to shift profits to low tax jurisdictions.

“As a result we will be undertaking a greater number of risk reviews and audits than ever before,” Mr Quigley said.

The ATO will continue to work closely with other tax jurisdictions and law enforcement agencies to combat tax crime in Australia and internationally.

“Tax crime is committed by a small minority, but affects the whole community through lost revenue,” Mr Quigley said.

“We are also getting results through close cooperation with other international tax agencies, as seen recently with our work with the US and UK on tax haven data,” Mr Quigley said.

"With countries working together and sharing data, the world is becoming a smaller place and it is getting very hard to hide.”

Trusts will also come under scrutiny with the ATO setting up a Trust Taskforce to work with other agencies to tackle the misuse of trusts.

“We will work with other agencies where necessary to ensure the full force of the law is used against those involved in schemes aimed at avoiding or evading tax obligations,” Mr Quigley said.

Data matching is a key activity the ATO undertakes to identify tax avoidance.

“Each year we improve our systems and expand the range of data and information we can match against claims. This year we expect to match over 640 million transactions,” Mr Quigley said.

“Our data matching program helps us uncover people understating or omitting income.

We also automatically provide some of the data in tax returns as part of our pre-filling service to help people get their tax right.”

Our compliance activities cover the full spectrum, from supporting and educating those willing to do the right thing to using the full force of the law on those who deliberately choose to avoid their obligations.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 9

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld raises WARNING!!! Migration Scam Alert Courtesy No Limits Migration a government department or agency. They funds for Uttarakhand Disaster in may also have personal information handy A RECENT update from the Department of such as a person’s birth date and nationaliIndia and School repairs in Fiji Immigration and Citizenship highlights a ty. These days, this sort of information can new scam targeting temporary visa holders in Australia. The scam involves visa holders being approached by scammers pretending to be from an Australian Government Agency or Department, usually by phone, and asked to pay a fee for a fictitious ‘Citizenship and Immigration Services Alien’ (CISA) number or card - or risk deportation.

Visa holders should be aware that the ‘CISA’ number is not real nor would the Australian Government call visa holders to demand a payment in relation to their visa to avoid being deported. Also, a person should never provide personal details to a stranger because scammers will use these details to commit identity fraud.

Scammers go to great lengths to construct elaborate scams including doing research about a person and gaining information which make them seem as if they are from • Members performing Satsangh Yaj at Finnish Hall.

ARYA Pratinidhi Sabha of Dharma (our duty) to Qld (APSQ) members and help others. Dharma well wishers got together means duties and essenand donated funds to protial characteristics, withJitendra Deo vide assistance to the disout which a thing cannot President advantaged. This initiative retain its very own exiswas taken by the Arya tence. Religion may be a Samaj members considering the less fortu- personal affair owing its allegiance to pernate ones who were affected in recent dis- sonal beliefs and convictions of a person, aster and request made by school in Fiji. but Dharma is an universal affair. Dharma The Uttarakhand Disaster is well known to makes people broad minded and as such many of us around here in Australia. The binds and holds them together. Righteous devastation has been enormous and Delhi people, adhering to VEDAS, therefore, conArya Pratinidhi Sabha in India is helping sider the whole world as one family. with relief work. Our contribution will be VEDAS expect every human being to be sent to them, and they will use it for relief humane in true sense and thus advocate works. The School repairs funding was “humanism” as the Dharma of the entire requested by a Primary School in Labasa humanity. Donations are an integral part of Fiji, and Sabha members contributed as Religion. Since time immemorial both the well to help in repairs. terms ‘Donations’ and ‘Religion’ have been Sabha believes donation given is our real used together, so much so that they have friend. What we have shared with the needy become synonymous to each other. Be gives lasting happiness. The Sabha will in human and humanise others, this is the future continue to take active part in sharing message of VEDAS since its eternity. and providing help and available resources Let us all move forward with Dharma and to needy. The President of the Sabha Mr consider the whole world as one family.

Jitendra Deo thanked all the members for There is definitely optimism as we look this noble cause and pointed that by under- ahead and give a helping hand to disadvantaking this sort of activities, our commu- taged where we will emerge stronger and nities can also integrate with global society. more resilient than ever. May GOD bless According to The VEDAS it is mankind’s you all.

Grants open for creative youth programs FUNDING applications are open for Not for Profit organisations who deliver community based programs with a focus on youth development and support.

The Youth Development and Support Program (YDSP) is an annual national program designed to provide financial support for non Government and Not for Profit organisations to deliver creative and innovative community-based youth development projects.

The program will provide funds to eligible organisations to support initiatives that inspire and encourage young people aged between 12 and 24 years to develop skills and connections within their communities.

A total of $500,000 is available for organisations to deliver projects for implementation in 2013-14.

Grants are available in two different stream rounds of up to $40,000 or up to $70,000, depending on the criteria.

The focus for projects in 2013-14 is ‘Building a safe and supportive culture’.

Applications should demonstrate how the

Regional Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas (PBD) 2013 in Sydney THIS major conference will be held on in Sydney over three days 10 -12 November 2013 and is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from the Asia Pacific Region.

Ms Sheba Nandkeolyar, President of AIBC NSW welcomed the media and spoke about the growing Indian Diaspora in the Asia Pacific region and the need to remain connected with India.

Mr Neville Roach, speaking on this occasion, noted that the objective of the event was to reach out to those members of the community who have been unable to participate in the annual PBD in India, and to provide a platform for the Indian community in Australia and the Pacific Region to contribute to the strong and growing relationship between countries of this region and India.

Mr Biren Nanda, the Indian High Commissioner for Australia, said participation in the event was expected from all States and Territories of Australia and from neighbouring countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia,

Manila, Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Fiji and the Pacific Islands.

Mr Rajiv Mehrishi, Secretary, Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (India) highlighted a number of Government of India initiatives introduced recently for overseas Indians.

Details of which are on: www.moia.gov.in He also stated that this convention was not only for the Indian community, but for everyone interested in India’s growing relationship with Australia and other Pacific countries.

Mr Nanda said the event would feature discussions on different

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

be gained from a variety of sources such as social networking forums.

There is only one official Australian Government provider of visas: the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. If there are any concerns about a visa, the department can be contacted directly using their official contact details, which are available at: www.immi.gov.au Or as a special offer and service for any person who is been approached and may be in fear of being deported: Call our office on 07 3877 1222 or visit us at 17 Overend St East Brisbane and we will check the status of your VISA for free.

This information provided by No Limits Migration (MARN: 1279145) (reference MIA)

aspects of India’s relationship with Australia and countries of the region including resources, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, skills and education, languages, youth, women in business and culture, among others.

Mr Arun Kumar Goel, Consul General of India in Sydney stated that the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas website would be up by August, including program and registration details.

Mr Dipen Rughani, AIBC National Chair said he was pleased the AIBC was associated in actively promoting the Regional Pravasi Bharatiya www.indiantimes.com.au

Divas in Sydney, Australia in November.

The Australia India Business Council Ltd (AIBC) is a national membership organisation with active branches in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Canberra.

Founded in 1986, it is the only national body representing bi-lateral trade and investment relations between Australia and India.

It maintains close relationships with federal and state government agencies, the diplomatic corps and industry bodies, and showcases opportunities to the Australian business community through an active program of events nationally.

AIBC conducts a wide range of activities in Australia and India which include policy and business planning initiatives with major stakeholders including the Government of India, Government of Australia/State Governments, major government trade and investment bodies.

project will develop young people’s skills to engage in positive non-violent, non-bullying behaviours in their community.

Successful projects will enhance wellbeing and build young people’s resilience and ability to cope with stress, or assist young people to engage with their community and encourage leadership.

Projects should have a focus on enhancing young people’s wellbeing; • developing young people’s skills to engage in positive non-violent/non-bullying behaviours • building young people’s resilience and ability to cope with stress • assisting young people to engage with their community • encouraging leadership To apply visit www.submissions.deewr.gov.au/sites/ submissions/ydsp2013 Applications close on August 23, 2013.

For more information phone 1300 363 079 or email ydsp@deewr.gov.au Source: probonoaustralia.com.au

Murtaza Taher winner of the Crescent Wealth Academic Excellence Award

• Mounir Kiwan, Business Development Manager at Crescent Wealth and Ric Fletcher, Head of Advancement at La Trobe University, congratulated Murtaza on his award and encouraged other students receiving awards for Islamic Finance subjects to continue to excel.

www.crescentsofbrisbane.org urtaza Taher received the 2013 M Crescent Wealth Award for academic excellence at La Trobe University Business School where he achieved outstanding results as the best performing student in the subject of Islamic Capital Markets.

Professor Leigh Drake, the Executive Dean of the faculty, presided over the ceremony and praised the high quality of recipients at this year’s event.

A number of Islamic Finance subjects were recognised including the subjects of Islamic Banking, Islamic Financial Planning and Islamic Capital Markets.

Crescent Wealth was the major sponsor of the Crescent Wealth CresWalk2013.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 11

MCF News….

Queensland Soni Samaj Inc News….

By Janeth Deen THE holy month of Ramadan has been a time of community awareness and spiritual awakening.

The Muslim Charitable Foundation has been overrun with calls for assistance during this holy month. Not only have they had to attend to the needs of the local community, they have had to help the many boat people refugees who have been settled into in-house detention, with only the clothes on their backs. A great proportion of the boat people have come from Muslim countries.

This year has been special to MCF as they have been assisted in their work by other organisations to attend to the needs of zakat clients during this holy month. The AlGhazali Foundation has supplied quite a large quantity of blankets, and the family of Ferhard Osman have supplied boxes of dates, forty hampers, (all packed by the Osman family) and blankets to be distributed to the needy through MCF. What a wonderful blessing it has been to assist in placing food on the table for those who have very little. May Allah reward those who have helped in this important task.

MCF has collected $71,000 during Ramadan for disability aids to be sent to Syria in conjunction with Muslim Aid Australia. This is half of the intended target of $140,000 and is a great result to be achieved during the month of Ramadan, when so many other charities are seeking zakat.

The Muslim Charitable Foundation A/C for Syria is through the Bank of Queensland, BSB 124 155, A/C Number 2089 7395.

The people of Syria need all the help they can get, as the people are suffering in more ways than one can imagine. The death toll is rising daily and they are our Muslim brothers and sisters whom we are losing.

We must help them!

The Muslim Charitable Foundation has been in operation for three years and has a vital role to play in the aid of the needy. It totally relies on donated funds to continue helping the sick, the disabled, elderly, widowed, single parents, out- of- work familes, migrants, refugees and all who are in need

of assistance. As to date, we have not been assisted with grants from any level of government. We totally rely on the Muslim community to support MCF. We are in the process of being granted tax deductibility for donations. We urge you to support us in helping the needy.

Zakat A/C Bank of Qld BSB 124 155 A/C No 20897312 Interest A/C Bank of Qld BSB 124 155 A/C No 20897385 General A/C Bank of Qld BSB 124 155 A/C No 20897392 The Committee of the Muslim Charitable Foundation wishes to say JazakAllah Khair for all the support we have been given through monetary and other donations since our foundation.

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

• Finalists in the Intermediate Category.

Varad Raval President, Qld Soni Samaj Inc.

THE Queensland Soni Samaj Inc. (QSSI) is a non-profit voluntary organisation representing and serving the Soni Community in Queensland, Australia. The QSSI aims to promote social welfare, religious, educational and cultural advancements of its members and the greater community.

Keeping the primary objective of the organisation in mind, we aim to cater for events that would attract participation from a broad mix of the community.

Keeping our Youth in mind, a sporting event had to be considered – the obvious expectation being that such an event would attract a greater involvement from the Samaj youth!! Informal consultation took place within a spectrum of the membership to brainstorm ideas on a sporting event – tennis emerged as the most popular choice. In our Committee, we have an avid sports lover – be it soccer, rugby, cricket or tennis – he enjoys watching and playing…no doubt he was the obvious choice to manage this event. The person I refer to here is Ronish Ratilal, my good friend and the Treasurer on the current QSSI committee.

Those who have been involved in organising community events will understand that these type of sporting activities may not necessarily appeal to a segment of the membership. Event flyer and a registration form were designed and the event opened up for registration some 4 weeks prior to the event. A concern in my mind was if we would have enough interest to fill up the 24 spots – as it turned out, registrations had to be closed out couple of days prior to the closing date! This was an unprecedented position to be in – perhaps we could start celebrating the success of the tennis tournament or perhaps it was time to change gears in preparation to ensure we could live up to the expectations!!

Fast forward to the event day…..Sunday 16 June 2013, a glorious winter day, in our sunny Brisbane, where Australia truly shines! Registered players were requested to report at 11am for a sharp 12pm start. I reached the venue, Queensland Tennis Centre, Tennyson at around 10:30 to get things organised. All registered participants were at the Tennis Centre by the nominated time, in fact nearly 90% of them had arrived 10 minutes prior!! It was a moment of realisation that the event had generated tremendous excitement and we were about to embark a moment of history for this would be the first time that a sporting event was organised at this scale, at least in the immediate memory.

The tournament was designed as a mixed doubles competition with all participants divided into three categories – beginners, intermediates and experts with eight participants in each category such that each pair would get to play against all three other pairs in the category. The event was primarily designed keeping our Samaj Youth in mind – though, we saw participation from the youngest participant 3 years old to the young at heart Samaj members,

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with the oldest participant being over 60 years young!!

Pairs were drawn by pulling names out of a hat and games and courts were allocated shortly thereafter.

We also took a moment to capture Winners of the Expert the camaraderie and •Category. spirit of sportsmanship by indulging into group photographs.

Qualifying games began at 12pm and each category of players went through their respective games. At this stage there were some 20 odd cheering spectators encouraging these. Fresh fruits, bottled water and Powerade were made available to the playing group. At around 2 PM most of the groups had finished their qualifying matches and indulged into a light Subway lunch. Finalists were decided based on the net score (difference of for/against scores through the qualifying games). We then proceeded for the grand finals into the Pat Rafter Areana where the first finals began at 3 PM. The finals games in all categories were equally exciting and provided solid entertainment value to the approximately 80 odd people witnessing the action. Shashi Pala and Satish Madhoji emerged victorious in the beginners category, though Satish can easily be slotted as an intermediate, if not an expert and Shashi was simply fascinating to watch! Amit Raniga and Ajay Amin scooped the winners trophy in the intermediate category and I can without doubt say that they had the best co-ordination as a pair, for future tournaments would suggest they must play as experts! Ronish Ratilal and Nimish Pragji won the expert category contest; their opposition in Ashwin Ratilal and Simran Madhoji were equally good making it a gruelling final!

The tournament concluded with the award ceremony – trophies were presented to the winners and the runners-up in each category. We encouraged the kids by presenting them with participation medals. All participants were honoured with participation certificates. Vishesh Lodhia, Simran Madhoji and Ronish Ratilal bagged the Player of the Tournament award!! It was a pleasure to have the Samaj Patron Raman Vasram and one of our Trustees Ratialalbhai Deoji present through the finals.

I feel extremely proud that this Committee organised such an awesome sporting event, bringing so many generations of Samaj individuals together. Thank you to all volunteers and sponsors, who made this occasion possible. Accolades to Ronish Ratilal for managing the organisation of this event so successfully.

The QSSI has unearthed tremendous leadership skills and solid management abilities in Ronish proving how such sporting events can be so effective in bringing the Community together!!

The QSSI is extremely proud to be an active community organisation promoting activities that foster a greater acceptance of cultural values through community participation activities, cultural celebrations, developing an inclusive, harmonious and cohesive community. Together, we will succeed…

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 13

Gaura Travel awarded as one of the top travel agents in Australia MELBOURNE based Gaura Travel has recently been awarded as one of the top travel agents in Australia by Singapore Airlines. This award is considered to be one of the most prestigious accolades conferred on a travel agent among hundreds operating in this sector.

Acknowledging this award, Mr Ashwini Sonthalia (pictured on right), Director & Founder of Gaura Travel said, “Gaura Travel had set two benchmarks right from day one bringing the best price to our customers and bringing best travel experience to the subcontinent travellers.

This award is dedicated to the staff and our customers who have helped us achieve those benchmarks. Most importantly, we believe this is just the beginning”.

Gaura Travel, which started as an Indian travel specialist is now operating across the subcontinent with its unique toll free numbers such as 1300 FLY INDIA (1300 359 463), 1300 FLY DKAKA (1300 359 725), 1300 FLY NEPAL (1300 359 637), 1300 FLY PAKISTAN (1300 359 725) and 1300 FLY SRI LANKA (1300 359 774).

Apart from its head office in Melbourne, today Gaura Travel has branches in Sydney and Adelaide.

By Jatinder Kaur (Director of JK Diversity Consultants)

Today Gaura Travel is even offering an enhanced LIVECHAT feature on their website and most importantly a multi-lingual 24/7 call centre that will assist you at any point of time.

With 50,000 customers under their belt, Gaura Travel is fast expanding their base through superior service and customer focus and recently Gaura Travel has started a special campaign “Win a free movie ticket everyday” on their Facebook page, with Gaura Travel you always WIN!!!

eftpos ups the ante - a $2 million give-away to an Aussie charity ELECTRONIC funds transfer system company, eftpos Australia wants to donate $2 million dollars to charity - doubling last year’s donation - and it will again ask Australians for their opinion about which worthy cause should get the money.

Initially, Australian charities are being asked to submit proposals for the expanded eftpos Giveback 2013 campaign before the August 30th deadline. eftpos said it would look to double the donation available to Australian charities under the 2013 eftpos Giveback campaign this Christmas, providing up to $2 million towards worthy causes. eftpos Managing Director Bruce Mansfield kicked off the 2013 Giveback campaign by calling on Australia’s charities to submit proposals about how they would use a donation to help Australians in need. eftpos says it is looking for charity proposals that have national reach, would enabled the charity to do something that it would not be able to do through traditional funding sources, and would not require recurrent annual funding. “eftpos Giveback tradition is now in its third year and we have decided to double the potential donation up to $2 million,” Mansfield said.

“It is very important for Australian companies like eftpos to get involved with charitable campaigns, and raise their commitment to helping Australian charities make a difference in the lives of Australians in need.

It’s understood that eftpos may consider dividing the $2million donation with a second or third charity depending on the quality of their applications.

“This year’s Giveback campaign will run in the lead up to Christmas, during which time Australians will be asked to support Australian charities by pressing CHQ or SAV at the checkout.”

Last year eftpos ran an online poll which showed overwhelming community support for eftpos to direct the Giveback donation towards a charity that assisted people with disabilities.

Of the more than 40,000 Australians who voted in the poll, 30% indicated their support for disability charities.

As a result eftpos Giveback donated $1 million to Vision Australia to build a new, world-class Seeing Eye Dog breeding and training centre in Melbourne. In 2011, $1 million was donated to The Salvos for a number of community programs across Australia.

Mansfield said submissions for Giveback 2013 would close on 30 August 2013, at which time eftpos may ask the Australian community to nominate which causes were top of mind this year.

For more information about the submission process, charities should visit www.eftposaustralia.com.au or email Warwick Ponder at wponder@eftposaustralia.com.au.

Source: probonoaustralia.com.au

USQ Professor receives accolades from Bangladesh Courtesy Mr Rayman Deen EVEN thousands of kilometres away, University of Southern Queensland Statistics Professor Shahjahan Khan (pictured) is still receiving accolades from his country of origin, Bangladesh.

Professor Khan has recently been elected as an Expatriate Fellow of the Bangladesh Academy of Science, the leading scientific organisation in Bangladesh and a leading representative to the government for matters of science and research.

As an expatriate fellow of the academy, Professor Khan will act as an ambassador

Racist attacks on Sikhs across Australia

for Australia and elsewhere in promoting science and technology as well as contributing research.

“It’s an excellent feeling to be recognised for your work by members of the scientific community in the country of your birth,” Professor Khan said.

“The academy engages with the government in the development and promotion of science within Bangladesh and the academy’s input is highly valued by the policy makers.

“As far as I know, I’m the first from Australia to become an Expatriate Fellow of the academy.”

Professor Khan said he looked forward to

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

Background AUSTRALIAN Sikhs have made Australia their home and have a long history, arriving here as early as the mid to late 19th Century.

They have made a valuable contribution to the Australian diverse culture. In the early days they contributed to and are continuing to contribute to the agricultural industry.

They are also engaged in within primary production, medical services, transport, engineering, financial services, etc. industries.

Sikhism is a religion which was well ahead of time when it was founded over 500 years ago. Today it has 20 million followers worldwide and is ranked the 5th largest religion. Sikhism preaches a message of devotion and remembrance of God at all times, truthful living and equality of mankind.

Sikhism preaches frank and unreserved dialogue between various religions.

Sikhs have a unique identity which makes them stand out in a crowd. Sikhs wear turbans and have unshorn hair. The Sikh faith requires all practicing Sikhs to wear the five articles of faith 5 K’s. The five Ks have a religious meaning for Sikhs and wearing of these is honouring the teaching of their Gurus. For a Sikh to cut his hair and not wear a turban is equivalent to breaking two cardinal tenets of the Sikh faith Impact of Racism & Discrimination Recent events in Australia have highlighted blatant discrimination and concerns in regards to the freedom of practising the Sikh religion. These events have had an impact on the Sikhs in Australia. It has made them question “Is Australia a multi faith and accepting society?” Many international students of Indian origin (including Sikhs) felt Australian’s were racist during the ‘Indian student protests in 2009’, however Governments and politicians were not willing to accept this perception and experiences of ‘racism’ by Indian students.

Racism and discrimination has impacted on Australian Sikh children, adolescents and adults. The following are some of the cases where issues have been identified: * Sikhs charged with not wearing a helmet when riding push bikes. * An altercation outside Parliament House (Brisbane) where a Sikh man was hit and his turban thrown off his head. * Sikhs asked to remove their turbans at Brisbane International airport. * Sikhs challenged in regards to the wearing of the kirpan. * Young Sikhs asked to remove their Kara (bracelet) or not allowed to play for their sporting teams. * Sikh students been teased and/or bullied in the school grounds by those who lack the understanding of the Sikh faith requirements.

Most recently on 17 July 2013, a Darwin Magistrate sentenced a husband and wife couple (Angelina Kim Sollitt, 44, and her husband Michael John Arbouin, 40) to nine months jail for racially motivated attack on Sikh man. The incident occurred in October 2012, when Mr Jagroop Singh, a taxi driver in Darwin picked up the passengers from the Dinah Beach Yacht Club. As he drove them, the female passenger told him to remove his turban, saying that it was Australia and not his country. “If you want to live in Australia, take this sh** off,” use his new appointment to help the development of science in his home country.

“If you have a talent, the academy can use it and mine happens to be statistics,” Professor Khan said.

“I can also help with organising seminars, conferences and workshops such as the International Statistics Conferences which I helped organise in 2006 and 2008 in Bangladesh.

“I feel USQ is a great platform to work with organisations such as the academy.”

While working at USQ, Professor Khan has served as the President of ISOSS (20052011), an international professional organisation of statisticians, organised 4 international conferences in Malaysia, Egypt,

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Sollitt was quoted as telling Singh. Mr Singh kept on driving but when the abuse did not stop he eventually pulled over in a bid to remove the group from the cab. It was then that female passenger got out from the cab and ripped off Singh’s turban leaving him dishevelled. When Mr Singh called police for help, male passenger threw him to the ground and punched him in the face.

Police eventually arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control. The turban is the crowning glory of the Sikhs,” Judge Stephen Southwood was quoted as saying during the sentencing. “For Sikhs, the head and the turban are sacred - they must not be touched or insulted in any way,” he said. Judge Southwood also said that the concept of Sikhism included “universal acceptance of all humanity, belief in one God and the equality of all persons irrespective of their caste, colour, gender, nationality and religion”. Mr Singh had earlier told the newspaper that the turban was symbol of faith for him.

Legislation In 1975, Australia ratified the United Nations Human Right treaties on the: International Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) and was followed by the introduction of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth). This legislation covers what makes ‘direct and indirect discrimination on the grounds of face, colour and ethnic origin unlawful’. In Queensland the relevant legislation is the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991. The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC): Know your rights and Racial discrimination and vilification (2012) defines Racial hatred or vilification is “doing something in public based on the race, colour, national or ethnic origin of a person or group of people which is likely to offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate”. The Racial Discrimination Act aims to ensure that Australians of all backgrounds are treated equally and have the same opportunities. This Act makes it against the law to treat you unfairly, or to discriminate against you, on the grounds of race, colour, descent, national or ethnic origin, and immigration status. The Act also makes racial hatred against the law. Any person who believes that they have been discriminated against or experienced racial vilification can lodge a complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission or the Anti-discrimination Commission of Queensland (ADCQ). The Australian Government launched the National Anti Racism Strategy in August 2012 til 2015.

Sikhs who wear the turban and the 5 articles of faith (5K’s) are highly ‘visible’ and this visibility is having an impact on their experience of racism, discrimination and prejudice in Australia. As a community we need to raise the profile of these issues with governments to ensure that these racist attacks do not continue and that the Australian community becomes more aware of the Sikh community and their unique identity.

For more information please link to Australian Human Rights Commission website:http://www.humanrights.gov.au/ publications/know-your-rights-racialdiscrimination-and-vilification If you would like to lodge a complaint with Anti-Discrimination Commission in Qld: www.adcq.qld.gov.au/, phone: 1300 130 670 Pakistan and Qatar, and have been serving as the Founding Chief Editor of the USA based Journal of Applied Probability and Statistics (JAPS) since 2006.

The Bangladesh Statistical Association awarded him prestigious Qazi Motahar Hossain Gold Medal in December 2012 in recognition of his scientific contribution and promotion of statistics.

Professor Khan was nominated for the position by a fellow Expatriate of the academy from Canada.

For more information on the Bangladesh Academy of Science and its contribution to the sciences in the country, visit http://www.bas.org.bd.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 15

Exclusive interview with 6th Annual Ashu Babu Memorial Hilton E Nugara - author Tabla School Concert “Second Time Around” ilton E Nugara was born in Sri H Lanka and later lived in West Africa for few years, as his father was in diplomatic service.

He then migrated to Australia in the early ‘70s, with his parents and family, where he then started working and a few years later he started his own business.

Over the years, he’s been in a few relationships, one even lasting eleven years.

But, although there were plenty of good times while he was in them, he sometimes still wondered what went wrong.

As he was always involved in business, he never really took time to settle down. Until one day, when he finally decided to do so, he found that most of his friends were already on their “Second Time Around”. After talking to many of them, he decided to write a book on what sometimes could go wrong in a good marriage so that others may know as well, how a perfect marriage can go from good to bad and sometimes, even end up in murder.

When asked on how he went from his first book which was on quite a different topic “twenty five easy ways to make money” he said many people have asked him the same question, but according to him it came naturally. On the question of what led him into writing the book, he said he was quite surprised how complicated the lives of people had become, which he had never indulged into until he started interviewing people for the book.

Amongst other things according to him sex plays a major role in a relationship, if there is not excitement then there is no point, we go to work, pay bills, this lack of interest is a sure first sign of breakdown in a marriage. Another factor is the finances which plays a major role, couples in a happy relationship have fallen in the trap of over committing their budgets and then all hell breaks loose. The lack of ability to manage finances, if they don’t have that can cause problems. Hiltons says that when kids come along and puts strain

on finances which leads into argument and each one starts to blame each other.

On the question the target audience, Hilton said that the book is aimed at people twenty five years and over, generally people on their second time around or even people thinking of getting married.

People can learn from what other people have gone through, everything starts with good intentions, but when things start going you find yourself on the Titanic, and it becomes a case of sink or swim. Gone are the days when couples stuck together no matter what, these days there are too many temptations, at your work , your office especially if you are not getting on well with your partner at home you tend to confide at someone at work who may be of the opposite sex, and you get close and before you know it the arms comes for comforting and before you know it your affair has started. It is funny but true has even led to murder.

Hilton said it was challenging to find twenty five different stories totally different to each other. An interesting book to read, which could hopefully save relationships.

The book is available on Amazon and at other outlets, all one has to do is type in the title of the book with the authors name. For more information email novelty1@optusnet.com.au or visit www.hiltonenugara.com/bookspublished.html

Communication across Cultures r Farvadin Daliri D conducted a workshop on how to communicate across cultures on 19th July at Multilink Community Services Inc. Dr Farvadin OAM has spent a lifetime in developing the knowledge and practice of communication across cultures. Dr Daliri is well known for his courses in self awareness, mediation, stress and anxiety management, cross cultural awareness and emotional intelligence.

At the workshop Dr Daliri helped the participants to communicate with “emotional intelligence” and overcome communication barriers regardless of what these barriers are. Hi position is that no one can claim that he can communicate better with his clients by gaining prior knowledge about their culture. That only leads to stereotyping and wrong assumptions. For example; imagine that someone claiming that I know all about Indian “culture” or Islam and can communicate well with Indians and Muslims because I attended a course. That would be certainly a wrong assumption. India and Islam are like oceans of cultures.

What it take to communicate with a person is not learning about her/is cultural features rather knowing how to make a meaning-

ful connection with that person without having any prior assumption or judgement.

This can be achieved through “emotional intelligence” and that is what he teaches in his course.

The course was held at Multilink Services Inc, Black wood Road Logan Central, whose mission is to provide coordinated, creative and responsive programs that meet the needs of our culturally diverse communities. They have a vision of a harmonious and inclusive society in which all individuals, families, cultural groups and communities can achieve their aspirations, contribute to and participate in Australian society.

MultiLink Community Services Inc. began in 1989 when a group of overseas-born residents of Logan City realised a need for services to assist migrants and refugees. Known at the time as Logan City Migrant Neighbourhood Centre, English classes, playgroups and the provision of information were the first activities conducted by Centre volunteers. In 1991, the first paid staff member was employed as the Community Development worker.

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

THE sixth annual Ashu Babu memorial concert was held on Saturday 27 July at Queensland Multicultural centre. The annual concert is where students of Shen Flindell perform in front of an audience in the presence of their Guru.

Shen Flindell started learning tabla in Melbourne from Sri Debapriya Bhattacharya in 1994 and soon went to the holy city of Varanasi in India to study under Pt. Kaviraj Ashutosh (“Ashu Babu”) Bhattacharya, a great tabla master of the Benares Gharana.

Shen is now mainly based in Brisbane, Australia, but typically spends several months of each year in Japan and India, and has performed with leading musicians in all three countries. Within the realm of Indian classical music, he is not only capable in the 4 fields of vocal accompaniment, instrumental accompaniment, Kathak dance accompaniment and tabla solo, but has also given successful accompaniment in South Indian music and dance performances.

Shen’s tabla playing is noted for his clear sound, comfortable rhythmic sense, intuitive accompaniment, sensuous bayan (bass) and a feeling of sincere devotion to Guru, Saraswati, Music and Tabla, thanks to many blessings from his Guru-ji.

He also teaches, supplies and repairs tabla.

In Brisbane he recently opened the Ashu Babu Memorial Tabla School, with both adult and children’s classes. Shen’s lessons follow his Guru-ji’s traditional classical style of teaching, emphasising quality of sound, refinement of hand-shape and development of technique and through devoted practice.

This was the sixth annual concert. This is a great effort on Shens part, in continuance of

the classical Indian music. This year’s concert saw tabla, Octet, Tabla Trio and Tabla duet by the students, this was particularly challenging , as all the student have to be in sync. Harmonium accompaniment was by renowned Joseph Abhay Nand.

The full moon in July is “Guru Purnima” the full moon dedicated to Gurus. On this day 19 years ago, I started my journey in tabla under my first guru Sri Debu Bhattacharya. Then again on this day 16 years ago, my path was affirmed by taking gandabandan initiation from my main guruji, Pt Kaviraj Ashutosh Bhattacharya in Varanasi. Tonight’s programme is a celebration of the Pt. Ashutosh Bhattacharya Baj of Benares Gharana of tabla, in honour of all Gurus.

Shen Flindell Tito Basu was the MC for the program which began with a bhajan by Susmitha Ravi. After the students performance Guru Shen Flindell did a tabla solo. Umesh Chandra presented the certificates to all the students, Umesh congratulated the students and thanked Shen Flindell for his efforts, he also shed some light on tala, rhythm. The concept of the ever-recurring cyclic rhythms of the universe is one of the basic tenets of Hindu philosophy. The perception of the cyclic nature of life is reflected in Indian classical music through the device of tala, a recurring time-measure or rhythmic cycle.

Just as in the Hindu religion, man is born, lives his life, dies and is then reincarnated to begin a new life, so the tala cycle begins, develops and then returns to the sam, the first beat of the cycle, anchor of all melody and rhythm and the leading beat to which all returns.

Brisbane to host Ashwamedh Mahayagya in 2014 BRISBANE Gayatri Pariwar is organising a grand scale 201Kund Ashwamedh Mahayagya during the Easter break (18 – 21 April) in 2014. This is a first event of its kind to be held in Queensland, with collaborative efforts to uproot evil instincts, balance the ecosystem and spread pure knowledge.

Ashwamedh yagya is performed to make the nation powerful and progressive.

The origins of ‘Ashwamedh Yagya’ come from Lord Rama who organised them to eliminate evils and expand the divine values among the people. Yagya has for centuries been an integral tradition of the Indian culture as a form of prayer and offerings and also as a ritual of morning daily activities.

Apart from the objective of social awareness and reformation through collective striving and environmental purification, the Mahayagya also serves the purpose of moral elevation of the masses.

Such yagyas are dissimilar to any other cultural or religious event you may have attended in the past.

It cannot simply be organised by one person spending lots of money.

The currency here will be the will, dedication, devotion and the noble aims of many hundreds of people who contribute through their talents and capabilities. This is the scheme of God; this is what expresses the plans of divine incarwww.indiantimes.com.au

nation of Pragyavatar. Ones participation in Yagya will enshower on him preeminent benefits if one is sincere in ones approach of selfrefinement and moral transmutation.

AWGP Brisbane Branch hopes that everyone will seek inspiration in that yagyas are not merely sacrifices of herbal preparation teamed with chanting of mantras.

Quick thinking allows one to recognise that God does not await these offerings. The true offerings are those from the attendees and volunteers, who offer their precious time, moral conduct, virtues, sincerity, kindness, labour and altruistic deeds. This is the true meaning of Upasana and Sadhana, the pillars of our existence.

This three-day spiritual event will involve seminars for the youth, yoga and meditation workshops, exhibition and various cultural programs. More than 5000 people worldwide are expected to attend

joining us from Fiji, New Zealand, Canada, India, UK & the USA. The event will be held during the Easter break of 2014, 18th, 19th, 20th April 2012 at Mount Gravatt show grounds. Heads of AWGP Dr Pranav Pandya and Shailbala Pandya will be blessing the occasion with their gracious presence.

The largest contribution we can gain from you is your and family and friend’s pledge to attend the yagya.

Brisbane Gayatri pariwar is looking for volunteers who are able to volunteer their time, skills in networks and organisation. They are also looking for sponsors and most importantly the participation of all at this once in a life time event.

For further information on this event or to contribute, please contact AWGP Parijans, Pankaj Upadhyay (0466 643 544), Tirat Achal (0407 620 663), Vijay Kumar (0433 340 883).

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 17

Launch of the Multicultural Access and Equity Policy ON Wednesday 31st July 2013, Senator the Hon Kate Lundy, Minister for Multicultural Affairs formally acknowledged the work of Access and Equity Inquiry Panel and officially launched the ‘Multicultural Access and Equity Policy’, at Parliament House, Canberra. Ms Jatinder Kaur (from Queensland), who was appointed as an independent expert on the Access and Equity Inquiry Panel travelled to Canberra for this launch.

In November 2011 Senator Kate Lundy announced the establishment of an independent panel to conduct an inquiry into the Australian Government services to ensure they are responsive to the needs of Australia’s CALD population. The Inquiry Panel examined the Australian Government’s Access and Equity Strategy and Framework which applies to all Australian government policies, programs and services. The Inquiry Panel was chaired by former Department of Immigration and Citizenship Deputy Secretary, Mr Peter Hughes PSM, and comprised: * Ms Maria Dimopoulos, a consultant in cultural awareness, workplace diversity and cultural change in Melbourne who is a member of Australian Lawyers for Human Rights and International Commission of Jurists and recipient of an Amnesty International Human Rights Award

* Ms Jatinder Kaur, B.A.(Psy), M. Soc. Admin., a cultural diversity consultant in Queensland, specialising in working with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities * Mr Pino Migliorino, Chair of the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia who has nearly three decades private and public sector involvement in multicultural affairs and ethnic community activities in New South Wales * Judge Rauf Soulio, Chair of the Australian Multicultural Council (ex officio member of the Panel) who is a Judge of the District Court of South Australia, a member of the Council for the Order of Australia and Chair of the Migrant Resource Centre of South Australia.

On 27 June 2012, following an eightmonth consultation process, the Inquiry Panel provided its advice and recommendations to the Australian Government on how it could improve the responsiveness of government services to the CALD population.

Ms Kaur said that “it was important opportunity to make positive different to all migrant and refugee communities settling in Australia, that government services became more responsive to their needs, as part of their service delivery”.

On 21st March 2013, Senator Lundy said the inquiry proposed 20 recommendations

to strengthen the government’s Access and Equity framework, improve communication and reporting, and establish a whole-ofgovernment approach to the implementation of the policy. ‘The government has accepted the recommendations from the independent panel and will implement the changes to ensure the needs of the community are at the centre of government services,’ Senator Lundy said.

‘More robust reporting obligations for government agencies will drive better outcomes for people from diverse backgrounds and ensure all Australians can access services equitably. The key recommendations from the report that will be implemented include: * designing a toolkit of resources and better practice guidelines for all government departments * developing updated Standards for Statistics on Cultural and Linguistic Diversity by the Bureau of Statistics * incorporating Access and Equity considerations and obligations into funding part-

nerships and agreements with the states and territories * developing a whole-of-government policy on communication by its agencies in languages other than English * incorporating Access and Equity considerations and obligations into the whole-ofgovernment communication and advertising guidelines * periodic performance audits by the Auditor-General of selected agencies’ performances meeting Access and Equity obligations * tabling reporting in both Houses of Parliament.

For more information, see link to Department of Immigration and Citizenship website: http://www.immi.gov.au/living-inaustralia/a-multicultural-australia/ government-approach/governmentservices/multicultural-access-and -equity.htm

Department of Immigration and citizenship hosts Community leaders session BRISBANE, 2 August: Department of Immigration and Citizenship hosted a community leaders session at their Queensland office. The function was well attended by emerging and established communities. Robert Hoitink the outgoing State director welcomed everyone to the session and announced his departure to Canberra and confirmed that Jill Simpson as the incoming State director. Robert said that he had mixed feelings about the announcement as he had forged a good working relation with the local community and would miss them, however the new role challenging as it may be is what he is looking forward to.

Robert Hoitink introduced Secretary of DIAC Martin Bowles who delivered a very informative presentation. The overwhelming numbers of asylum seekers, and recent policy changes dominated the topic. He shed some light on the extraordinarily high number of applications that the department process on an annual basis, he also touched on the large number of visa applications that had been processed, an increase of 45% in the humanitarian intake, placing enormous pressure on the system. The department is quite aware of the system that people smugglers use and they have cracked down many sophisticated operations, these are not reported in the media. The whole idea is to discour18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

age people getting on unsafe boats and risking their lives after paying large sums of money to people smugglers. He said that the department was well aware of its obligations.

Incoming state director, Jill Simpson introduced herself and said she was looking forward to strengthening the cordial relation that Robert had forged with the community.

She also acknowledged the presence of three People of Australia Ambassadors; Jim Bellos’, Umesh Chandra and Mohit Tolani.

All three People of Australia ambassadors were called to the dais and the floor was opened to questions, the main question was how does one become a People of Australia ambassador? The process of nomination was outlined, Jim Bellos’ spoke of his involvement with the communities and especially the Muslim and South African community, he said he enjoyed being a People of Australia Ambassador.

Umesh Chandra spoke on the Australian values and Australian way of life, he said we had a lot to thank Australia for, we have all come here by our choice and hence we should embrace the Australian way of life and uphold its laws. Australia allows us to practice our respective religions, Australia allow us to celebrate our cultures, not only that, Australia supports us financially in doing so. www.indiantimes.com.au

Australia has a history and we have to appreciate that, we often talk about racism which not be denied, but when you look at Australia overall, we are much better off here than other countries were the laws are discriminatory, where you are not allowed freedom of speech, nor do you have freedom of press. In many counties certain ethnic background citizens are barred from holding high government positions despite their qualifications.

Mohit spoke on his community involvement within the youth and especially the ingenious youth, he said he was very happy and proud to be a People of Australia ambassador, the role had given him an introduction to a number of like minded community leaders. He looks forward continuing to serve the community as he has always been doing.

During the question and answer session many community issues were discussed, discussion of specific cases were discouraged. The main questions raised were; the justification of the Papua New Guinea solution, the fate of the boat arrivals before the announcement, the time taken for the processing, difficulty in getting visitors visas.

Most of the questions were handled by the DIAC officials and advisors.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

$2.5 million for Lebanese Muslim association to run ‘Engage, Challenge, Grow’ community building project THE Lebanese Muslim Association will receive $2.5 million in funding from the Rudd Government to promote community cohesion in South Western Sydney through its Engage, Challenge, Grow project.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Kate Lundy, the Member for Watson Tony Burke and Member for Blaxland Jason Clare made the announcement today which will support the Lebanese Muslim Association in running the Engage, Challenge, Grow project.

The project aims to promote cross-cultural contact between different communities, foster understanding and respect, and break down barriers to cohesion.

The funding will be provided as part of the $15 million Empowering Multicultural Communities initiative which is designed to support local communities as they embrace the benefits of multiculturalism and maintain socially inclusive neighbourhoods.

The Lebanese Muslim Association is a well-respected not-for-profit community organisation in South Western Sydney with an established reputation for providing social, educational, recreational and welfare services to the Muslim community.

The Engage, Challenge, Grow project will run in three streams: 1. Engage The engagement phase of the program will include the development of a Young Muslims Advisory Group and will also identify high-profile Australian Muslims to be positive role models for Muslim youth.

2. Challenge The challenge phase will facilitate a number of events to engage Muslim families within the wider community to foster understanding, respect and build community resilience.

This phase will include a series of open days to break down the barriers and misconceptions by creating an open dialogue with the non-Muslim community.

A short film designed to challenge misconceptions about Muslim women will also be produced and screened as part of the Challenge phase.

3. Grow The final component of the program will include an outreach project that will create opportunities for young Muslim men and women to become trainees and complete a Certificate IV in youth work.

Throughout delivery and upon completion, the program will be evaluated by an independent external and suitably qualified consultant.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 19

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 21

Viewpoint....

GOPIO Qld' India Day Fair, celebrating Indian Independence Day in Brisbane - what does it mean to you?

The smells of cooking and spices, the sounds of voices talking in familiar languages, the recognisable rhythm and music that fill the air: the sight of psychedelic colours, the beautiful flowing costumes and familiarity of being with people of my origin, evokes pride and nostalgia that brings tears to my eyes and joy to my soul. This is what celebrating this special day in Brisbane means to me and as I walk around, I see the same pride and joy in the eyes of my countrymen and it gives me a opportunity to reflect on my humble beginnings with pride.

Vinita Khushal

I think it is a matter of pride for the people of Indian origin to see the very active engagement and participation GOPIO Qld, in organising such events of National interest. Those volunteers who are consistently involved in organising such events deserves full community support and recognition for their tremendous input. We should come forward to help GOPIO. GOPIO should make every effort that the core message of Independence day celebration reaches out to the broader community especially among the children. “Vandey Mataram” Anil Verma

“Patriotism is like charity - it begins at home” The celebration of Indian Independence day in Brisbane gives me an opportunity to pay my respects to all those men and women who strived for our freedom. An opportunity to salute the soldiers who continuously patrol our international borders and maintain our independence. An opportunity to express gratitude to those genius minds and skilled hands which have shaped India the way it is now!

Viral Shah

Indian Independence Day of 15th August is the most widely celebrated national day in India. It unites all Indians with considerable emotion and gratitude for the sacrifices of our national leaders.

I am proud to be a part of this world-class celebration in Brisbane on behalf of GOPIO and FICQ. Naidu Bodapati

We welcome comments from our readers on the View Point and Meeting Point, you may wish to write to “Letters to the Editor”.

If you wish to take part in View Point please contact our office and we will contact you for future topics. From this month we have increased the View Point word count to 100 as opposed to 50 to allow ample response / opinion to be viewed.

For submissions or enquiries email admin@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3352 0102.

Meeting Point....

Meet Zaffar Khan….

IN this issue we meet Zaffar Khan, the man behind the newly formed innovative Dial A Local Doctor service. When you meet Zaffar Khan he comes across as a very friendly person with a lovely smile. He appears to have a can do attitude which is pretty much what he believes in. According to Zaffar one should never be afraid of failures, he believes the failures makes you stronger, every failure gets you to closer to your success.

Zaffar was born in Pakistan, his father had originally come from India and his mum was from Pakistan, he studied and completed his B.Com and MBA majoring in marketing, his forte is “marketing”. He is married to Vina and they have three daughters.

Vina has been a chief editor of a women’s magazine in Pakistan.

Zaffar came to Australia in 1985, and took up taxi driving, from there being of enterprising nature he started a taxi tuition centre, which later on became one of the largest accredited taxi training centres recognised by NSW government. He invested into properties with a unique concept of buying properties with any money, that is buying properties with options.

His latest venture, Dial A Local Doctor has been an immediate success, and now covers Ipswich, Logan, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, CBD, Redcliffe, Caboolture,

Toowoomba and Dalby.

This phenomenal growth has been achieved within one year.

Zaffar’s philosophy is that one should not afraid to fail, at least twenty times. He says that many people say they want a successful business and that they want to be rich, but they have no idea what they really want, they have to be specific, lay down plan on paper and stick to it. The idea has to be ethical, legal and practical, obviously it will take up lots of hard work and commitment, without these one cannot be successful. Consistent and focussed effort makes one successful. It’s not the hours that you put in the business but what you put into those hours that will determine how successful one will become. His belief is that one should have two plans, one to take care of the physiological needs of the person and his family that must be at a comfortable level, then there should be a separate plan to reach your financial goal and wealth creation.

Business planning and meetings should focus on solutions and not dwell on prob-

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

lems, say spend five percent of the time discussing problems and spend ninety five percent of the time focussing on solutions. His rule of twenty is his magic formula, for example if he asks his son to get his glasses and his son cannot find it on the usual location, he has to look at twenty other possible locations before coming to his dad and saying, dad I cannot find your glasses.

His future plan is to have branches in every state of Australia, as he has the team, system and strategy in place, one of his concepts is to open a afterhours only medical centre, which is aimed at taking the pressure off the day medical centre. His current Dial A Local Doctor concept works on the principle that sickness does not wait to attack during business hours only, and often people need medical attention at night, these are people who are unable to go to medical centres themselves. They are encouraged to go to their own GP first, but if attention is required after hours, than Dial

www.indiantimes.com.au

India Day fair has become a Queensland Iconic event, GOPIO Queensland’s flagship event, celebrating India’s Independence Day and showcasing Colours of India to the wider community. The rich and Vibrant culture, music and food all will be on display, independence came with a great struggle which must never be forgotten. We celebrate our freedom but also remember those who gave their lives in freedom movement.

The leadership, unwavering commitment and sacrifice to the freedom movement of our forefathers will be remembered for generations. We are grateful to Local, State and Federal Government for supporting this event in Queensland.

Shyam Das

A Local Doctor service is available, where by a suitably qualified doctor will come to your home and attend to you. The doctor will bulk bill, so you don’t have worry having cash, the doctor will also have limited supply of medications, enough to get you through till you are able to get to a pharmacy. His Unique selling propositions is that when others doctors are sleeping they are awake. On the question of duplication and competition he said that he does not believe in competition one should focus on being different, if you are a different market it will not affect you.

Zaffars hobbies include Soccer, tennis and table tennis, he loves networking and integration, he believes business meetings have to be short, community meetings have to be short. The focus should be on the goal and task at hand.

Zaffar is the current President of Rotary Club of Archerfield, and supports Fred Hallows foundation and many other charities. He has been involved with Islamic College of Brisbane in various capacities including chairperson of P & C. In his spare time Zaffar loves to write and to his credit so far he has written thirty six books, some of the titles are as follows; Twenty one powers, Five steps to a happy wife and life, So what?, Mind Chemicals, Pain free life Physically and emotionally, My Australia, and Power of love.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 23

Employers: 1 July superannuation changes are law

Business News India's forex reserves up by $960 million MUMBAI, Aug 3 (IANS) India's foreign exchange (forex) reserves increased by $960.2 million to $280.16 billion for the week ended July 26, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India.

The reserves had declined by $985.4 million to $279.20 billion for the week ended July 19.

The foreign currency assets (FCA) - the biggest component of the forex reserves grew by $914.1 million at $252.05 billion, the weekly statistical supplement of the central bank shows.

The FCA had plunged by $999.7 million at $251.13 billion in the previous week.

The central bank said FCA in US dollar

terms included the effect of appreciation or depreciation of non-US currencies held in reserve, such as the pound sterling, euro and yen.

Gold reserves remained stagnant at $21.55 billion. The gold reserves had plunged by 1.28 billion in the week ended July 5.

The special drawing rights (SDRs) rose by $30.8 million to $4.37 billion during the week under review, while reserves with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) went up by $15.3 million to $2.18 billion.

The SDRs had increased by $9.5 million to $4.34 billion during the previous week, while reserves with the IMF went up by $4.8 million to $2.16 billion.

China mulls relaxing one-child policy BEIJING, Aug 3 (IANS) China is still deliberating whether to further relax the country's one-child policy, a spokesman for the country's health and family planning authority said.

Mao Qun'an, spokesman for the National Health and Family Planning Commission, made the statement in response to media attention on China's population policies, Xinhua reported.

The current policy requires that to have a second child, the father and the mother must be both only children.

He explained that because the country's

basic conditions still include a huge population, weak economic foundations, sparse per capita resources and insufficient environmental capacity, the population will continue to put pressure on and strain the economy, society, resources and the environment.

To improve population policies, Mao said, China must maintain the current low birth rate while also taking into consideration the public's needs, social and economic development, and changes in the population structure.

IMF chief urges better global policy coordination

US regulator's approval for Lupin's heart disease drug

INTERNATIONAL Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde has urged better global policy cooperation and economic reforms that could help tackle specific challenges in both advanced and emerging market economies.

After the outbreak of the financial crisis, there was "really intensive" global cooperation in policy-making between 2008 and 2009, but after the crisis abated and the global economy embarked on recovery, the degree of urgency calling for cooperation has diminished, Lagarde told a group of reporters.

There is no "one-size-fits-all" economic reform recommendation suitable for all the IMF's 188 member countries, and countries should take different fiscal consolidation paces and set different reform priorities, Xinhua quoted her as saying during a roundtable briefing.

Advanced economies including the euro zone still have "significant potential risk", and there should be structural reforms and a banking union "in a comprehensive way" in the currency bloc, she said.

IANS

MUMBAI, August 1 (IANS) Pharma company Lupin said the US health regulator has approved its marketing of generic version of Gilead Sciences, Inc's Ranexa tablets, a drug used to treat heart disease in the American market.

The company's US-based subsidiary Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc has received final approval for its Ranolazine Extended-release tablets, 500 mg and 1000 mg from the US Food and Drugs Administration (USFDA), Lupin Ltd said in a statement.

"Lupin believes that it is the first applicant to file an abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) for Ranexa Extended-release tablets 500mg and 1000mg strengths and as such will be entitled to 180 days of marketing exclusivity," it said.

Ranolazine Extended-release tablets are indicated for treatment of chronic angina.

According to IMS Health, the tablets posted sales of around $443.4 million in the US for 12 months ending March 2013.

EMPLOYERS should be aware of their changing superannuation (super) obligations over the coming years under a range of super reforms, according to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Changes to the super guarantee started on 1 July this year and employers must comply with the new laws.

Alison Lendon, ATO Deputy Commissioner for Superannuation, said the change to the super guarantee rate from nine per cent to 9.25% will apply to all employers from 1 July 2013.

Employers must also start making super guarantee contributions to eligible employees who are aged 70 or over.

Calculating the super guarantee increase Employers calculating their super guarantee for pay periods that cross over 1 July should note that the super guarantee rise will be compulsory for all salary and wage payments after 30 June.

“Contributions are calculated based on the date you pay salary and wages to your employees,” Ms Lendon said.

“This means that salary and wage payments made after 30 June 2013 will need to be calculated using 9.25 per cent, not nine per cent.”

For help calculating super guarantee con-

tributions, visit ato.gov.au/supertools Free help for small business Small businesses are encouraged to use the free Small Business Superannuation Clearing House to help meet their super guarantee obligations.

The Small Business Superannuation Clearing House lets employers pay their super contributions in one transaction to a single location.

It is designed to make the super payment process easier by reducing red tape and compliance costs.

Small businesses simply register their employees’ super fund details and the clearing house will distribute the contributions to their various super funds.

“If you have 19 employees or fewer, you can use this free service to pay your super contributions in one transaction to a single location. There are also a range of commercial clearing houses that can help businesses of all sizes process their super contributions,” Ms Lendon said.

If you are unsure of how your business needs to adapt to the changes, visit ato.gov.au/employersuper or seek help from super service providers.

Information about the changes to super is available at superfuture.gov.au in English.

A short video in English is also on the website.

UP ropes in Ernst & Young to attract investment LUCKNOW, August 1 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh government roped in Ernst & Young for facilitating long-term investment promotion programmes in the state.

An agreement to this effect was signed between Udyog Bandhu - the UP government's agency for investment promotion and the firm here.

A government spokesman said that Ernst & Young will now function as the 'knowledge partner' of the UP government and it would define the scope of work and fix timelines for the next 18 months.

Principal Secretary (Industrial and Infrastructure Development) Surya Pratap Singh told IANS that the move was aimed at "evolving a 'Brand UP' commensurate with rapidly improving ground realities in

the state as a result of fresh policy interventions by the state government".

"With rigorous monitoring system for implementation of these policies in place, very soon the real industrial potential of the state would be realised," he added.

The Udyog Bandhu had invited bids for selection of a knowledge partner in November last year and three bids were received in April this year.

Out of three bids received, only Ernst & Young qualified technically whereas KPMG were disqualified technically for not meeting the bid criteria of experience required while Isthaan Financial Pvt Ltd were disqualified on the ground of non-responsiveness as they had not submitted even the required documents and fee.

Tata Motors' July sale down 30 percent AUTOMOBILE giant Tata Motors reported a 29.96 percent fall in sales for July this year at 51,468 units from 73,491 units sold in the corresponding month of 2012.

In the domestic market, the company reported a 31.23 percent decline in sales of its commercial and passenger vehicles at 47,191 units from 68,627 units sold in July last year.

Segment-wise, the commercial vehicles sales in domestic market fell by 14.20 per-

cent at 36,367 units from 42,387 units sold in July, 2012.

The company's passenger car sales plummetted by 58.75 percent in the month under review and stood at 10,824 units from an off-take of 26,240 units in the corresponding period of last year.

Exports in July fell by 12.06 percent at 4,277 unit from 4,864 units which were shipped out in the corresponding month of 2012.

More power for northeast India

By Sujit Chakraborty AGARTALA, July 31 (IANS) With the commissioning of new hydel and thermal projects, staterun North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) is expecting to add over 6,000 MW of power to its current capacity in the coming years.

"Many hydel and thermal power projects are now at various stages of commissioning... Completion of the under commissioning and planned projects in different northeastern states would generate over 6,000 MW in the region," NEEPCO chairman and managing

director (CMD) P.C. Pankaj told IANS in an interview.

NEEPCO, which got the 'Miniratna' status in April this year, has an installed capacity of 1,130 MW, which is 47 percent of the total installed capacity of the northeastern region.

The NEEPCO CMD had come here from Shillong to supervise the Monarchak 101 MW capacity power project in Sonamura in western Tripura, bordering Bangladesh. He met Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, Power Minister Manik Dey and other officials and discussed progress of the power plant.

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

"The gas based Monarchak power project would start generating electricity by September this year if the ONGC ensures supply of gas to the project," Pankaj said, adding that the project cost has escalated from Rs.623 crore to Rs.960 crore due to delay in execution of the plant.

He said 51 MW would be generated by NEEPCO's 84 MW capacity Agartala thermal power project at Ramchandra Nagar near here by August next year.

The hydro-power potential of the northeastern region is estimated at about 58,971 MW, but only less than two percent (1,200 MW) has www.indiantimes.com.au

so far been harnessed till early this year. NEEPCO is also planning to generate at least 1,500 MW power from non-conventional sources of energy such as solar and wind in the next five years.

In the region that comprises eight states and has a population of 45.58 million, the peak hour demand of electricity is around 2,000 MW. According to an official document, 19 power projects, including twelve 3,918 MW capacity hydel power projects and four thermal power projects with installed capacity of 5,595 MW, are now in various stages of com-

missioning and planning in the northeastern region by different organisations, including NEEPCO. The power plants would be set up in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Mizoram and Tripura.

Three power projects totalling 1,344 MW would also be commissioned by private organisations in Arunachal Pradesh.

Pankaj said NEEPCO would sponsor an industrial training institute at Sonamura in western Tripura.

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Business News Innovation...how do I get my idea to market?

THE commercialisation of an idea refers to developing a new product, process or service to the stage of releasing it to market.

There are a number of steps that are usually undertaken prior to getting an idea to market as part of the innovation process.

Commercialisation Australia can help you get started. They have a number of resources such as networking opportunities, business mentors and case managers with skills to assist your business.

Commercialisation Australia aims to help researchers, entrepreneurs and innovative businesses take their intellectual property to market. It's tailored to the needs of each business, and applicants can apply for the component that suits them when they need it.

Commercialisation Australia participants work with a Case Manager and have access to Volunteer Business Mentors. Case Managers have extensive experience in commercialisation, many having taken their

own products and services to market, and have good networks within industry.

Commercialisation Australia provides assistance under four key components: • Skills and Knowledge - grants up to $50,000 to access expert advice and services • Experienced Executives - grants up to $350,000 over two years (up to $175,000 per year) to engage an experienced Chief Executive Officer or other executive • Proof of Concept - grants from $50,000 up to $250,000 to assist with establishing the commercial viability of a new product, process or service • Early Stage Commercialisation - grants from $50,000 up to $2 million to assist with bringing a new product, process or service to market.

For more information please visit www.business.gov.au. business.gov.au offers you simple and convenient access to all government information.

Tax time 2013 is here, get online Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal IT’S time for 12.4 million Australians to start lodging their income tax returns and the ATO is offering improved services to help.

“One of my first priorities is to deliver better, more contemporary services for the community,” said Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan.

“This year we’re offering practical ways to make it easier for people to meet their obligations.

“Doing business on mobile devices and online is nothing new and it’s what the community expects. That’s why we’ve

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focussed on delivering a mobile app, digital magazine, and an improved website to help people this tax time.”

The new app, ATO Tax 2013, is available free from the Apple Appstore and Google Play. It provides information on lodging your return, answers frequently asked questions and lets you monitor the progress of your return.

Taxtime magazine is also available from app stores and provides an interactive online alternative to paper tax return instructions.

See ato.gov.au/taxtimemagazine The ATO’s website, ato.gov.au has a new look to make it easier for people to find

New guide helps employers work with migrants and refugees AUSTRALIAN employers have a new resource to help them maximise the potential of migrant and refugee employees in their workplaces.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Senator Kate Lundy launched the Connections: An employer’s guide to working with migrants and refugees publication today Australia Post in Dandenong on 29 July.

The new publication provides information for businesses about how to best engage with migrant and refugee employees and support them in the workplace.

“Many employers in Australia have invested in migrant and refugee employees and benefited from the diversity they have brought to the workplace,” Senator Lundy said.

“The benefits to the community when newly arrived migrants are engaged in meaningful work are enormous.

Employment provides an opportunity for new migrants to contribute to the economy and familiarise themselves with working life in Australia.”

The publication includes useful tips on how employers can access government

funded programs on migrant and refugee employment and engage with community and other non-government organisations.

“The information guide includes ideas on mentoring, how to convey information and the use of jargon, and information specific to working with migrants and refugees including dealing with cultural differences,” Senator Lundy said.

In addition, the Federation of Ethnic Communities Councils Australia (FECCA) has launched a suite of fact sheets to complement the guide.

“The fact sheets provide guidance on managing diversity in the workplace and maximising its value, which will help to create an inclusive workforce,” Senator Lundy said.

“We want all migrants and refugees to fully participate in the Australian community, and meaningful employment is crucial to this, so I commend these wonderful new tools to all employers.”

Further information about the guide is available at www.immi.gov.au/employers.

Further information about the fact sheets is available at: www.fecca.org.au

what they’re looking for this tax time, and allows them to log on to online services to manage their tax and super information.

“These products mean all the information people need to complete their tax return is at their fingertips. Instead of having to wade through a lot of written information, links to practical YouTube videos will help speed things up and ease the burden,” said Mr Jordan.

“When it comes to completing and lodging your return e-tax, our free online service, is the easiest way. Last tax time 2.6 million people used e-tax. Download etax at ato.gov.au/etax “It can automatically fill in some of the information for you and contains easy to use tools and calculators.

“And finally there’s good news for patient Mac users - e-tax is now available. It’s been

a long time coming, but Mac users can now take advantage of this free online service.

“We’ll continue to build on these services to deliver more contemporary services in a form the community expects.”

There are a few changes this tax time that you need to be aware of. For the first time, you need to include details of your spouse’s income and provide a bank account for electronic payment of refunds.

You have until 31 October to lodge your own return or register with a tax agent.

For more information on completing tax returns, go to ato.gov.au/Individuals/Lodging-your-taxreturn If you do not speak English well and want to talk to a tax officer, phone the Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50 for help with your call.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 25

Who, What, Where, When

• The Liberal Party candidate for Scullin is Jag Chugha, (fifth from left), the first Australian of Indian heritage to stand for a federal seat. Jag is a practising lawyer in the corporate sector. He has lived in Thomastown most of his life and attended Thomastown Meadows Primary School and Merrilands Secondary College.

• Yahmin Khan, Councillor Kim Marx and Janeth Deen on board USS Washington during a VIP guided tour of the ship at the Port of Brisbane.

• Bhajan recital by Susmitha Ravi accompanied on tabla by Rhea Ravi at annual Ashu Babu memorial concert.

• Peter Rohweder, presenting Station managers report at Radio 4EB’s Convenors’ meeting.

• First year students displaying their talents at the Annual Ashu Babu memorial concert..

• The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) held a boardroom briefing on Superannuation with Loc Trinh, Director Access & Diversity Unit, ATO Corporate in conjunction with Sheba Nandkeolyar, CEO Multicall Connexions on 30 July at The Boardroom, Brisbane.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 27

Who, What, Where, When

• Chinmaya Mission Australia Trivia 20 July - The Winning Table with Bramachari Gopal Chaitanya.

• Chinmaya Mission Australia Trivia 20 July - Little ones on the Red Carpet.

• Chinmaya Mission Australia Trivia 20 July - Partipants who know all the answers.

• Mrs Savitri Charan presented a trophy & sweets to the Headmaster, Staff & students of Ellington Primary School, Rakiraki, Fiji on the 22nd of July, 2013 in the memory of her late husband & former headmaster of the school. He had served at the Ellington Primary School in Rakiraki from 1971 to 1982 when he retired from service. Late Mr. A. R. Charan was a soccer enthusiast & served on the Ba Soccer Board for some time.

• CONGRATULATIONS to GOPIO Sydney’s New Executive Committee!! President - Bhupinder Chhibber, Vice Presidents - Balvinder Ruby and Dr Jawahar K Thomas, Secretary - Rajat Midha, Joint Secretary - Kamini Raj Singh, Treasurer - Balbir Singh! I’m Truly humbled to accept my New appointment as Co-Chairperson of GOPIO International Women council. Manju Mittal is Media Co-ordinator and Maxine Salma is Cultural Co-ordinator of the team.

• Robert Hoitink, is farewelled as State Director of Department of Immigration and Citizenship by Gail Kerr at partners in leadership function.

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

• Kush Sami of Brisbane with Ustaad Zakir Hussain renowned Indian tabla player, musical producer, film actor and composer in USA.

• Brisbane Babas Band performing at Chinatown Mall for Multicultural Festival, the performance was applauded as one of the best performances for the event.

The Band has full bookings through till the end of the year, with performances booked in many regional areas. www.indiantimes.com.au

• Birthdays all round, GOPIO Queensland President Shyam Das and GOPIO Queensland Vice President Usha Chandra cutting cakes for their birthdays during GOPIO’s India Day Fair planning meeting held at Queensland Multicultural Centre, Kangaroo Point.

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 29

Sri Krishna Janmastami Submitted by Sundar Gopal Das ON August 29 it is Sri Krishna Janmastami, the appearance day of Sri Krishna. It will be celebrated with great pomp by devotees of Lord Krishna all over the world. As Lord Krishna appeared at midnight, all devotees will be awake till midnight hearing and singing the glories of Sri Krishna. Holy days like Janmastami are known as the birthplace of devotional service and can award us the greatest benefit if followed with honour.

Devotees will be reading and speaking about the pastimes of Sri Krishna, in the days leading to Janmastami especially reading and reciting from Sri Bhagavat MahaPurana or Srimad Bhagavatam.

It has been said that “This Bhagavat Purana is as brilliant as the sun. It has arisen just after the disappearance of Lord Krishna to His own abode, accompanied by religion, knowledge etc. Persons who have lost their vision due to the dense darkness of ignorance in the age of Kali shall get light from this Bhagavat Purana. This Bhagavatam reveals the means for becoming free from all material bondage, together with the process of transcendental knowl-

edge, renunciation and devotion.”

“Simply by listening to this Bhagavat Purana, the feeling for loving devotional service to Lord Krishna, the Supreme Enjoyer, sprouts up at once to extinguish the fire of lamentation, illusion and fearfulness.”

It is a fact that listening to pastimes of the Lord brings happiness to the heart and nourishes the soul. This is because the Lord resides in the body alongside the soul as the Supersoul and is the dearmost friend of all the living entities. Therefore hearing the pastimes of the Lord automatically brings happiness and joy to the soul.

Sri Krishna confirms this in the Bhagavat Gita “Those whose minds are absorbed in Me and whose lives are wholeheartedly devoted to My service derive great satisfaction and bliss from constantly enlightening one another about My name, form, qualities and pastimes.”

“In the association of pure devotees, discussion of the pastimes and activities of the Lord become a rejuvenating elixir for both the heart and the ears. By regular hearing and contemplation of such topics one quickly becomes liberated and free from ignorance. He progresses from faith to deep

attachment unto the Lord and finally engages in loving relationship to the Lord.”

By being attracted to the Lord, one can easily give up the attraction of this illusory world, breaking the endless cycle of birth, death and suffering and attain the spiritual world. There one engages in loving pastimes with the Lord, the dearmost friend of all.

Sri Krishna confirms this in the Bhagavad Gita “Those who have attained Me, do not take birth again in this temporary world

which is the abode of misery, for they have attained the highest perfection.”

We are requesting all to take advantage and attend the Bhagavata recitations all over Brisbane.

And we are also praying to the Lord that He may appear in our hearts and get rid of our imperfections so that we can engage in His loving service.

Any comments or questions, please contact us on bhaktibrisbane2010@gmail.com.

Raksha Bandhan should promote respect for women Thakur Ranjit Singh Auckland, New Zealand

True Freedom

[Incorporating blogsite FIJI PUNDIT at: www.fijipundit.blogspot.co.nz and https://plus.google.com/100448072333742357583/posts

LAST year I wrote under the same issue and advocated that our festivals should carry an underlying theme to tackle and address social issues. I will still repeat some of what I said last year, because this message needs to be hammered into the minds of our community leadership. I strongly feel that no festivals should be celebrated in abstract or in theories and principles, without showing its practical message and lesson for us.

That is why last year I advised a Hindu organisation in Auckland, organising huge annual Racha Bandhan festival with much ho halla, dancing, singing and political speeches, to have a theme for the celebration. I suggested this because I saw that this Hindu festival had little relevance to the theme of brotherly-sisterly love and respect for women. I had suggested a theme: You vow to protect your sister, but who protects my sister-your wife? This is especially relevant because Indians in general and Hindus in particular hold the relationship of a brother and sister in high esteem, which supposedly signifies respect for sisters – the women. To Indian brothers, while your married sister is someone else’s wife, at the same time, your wife happens to be someone else’s sister. Hence there is a commonsense reason for reciprocity if one wants to protect sisters. What this means is that for your sister to be respected and protected, you need to do the same to your wife who is somebody else’s sister.

But is this happening? We reportedly have high incidents of family violence in India and amongst Indian migrants to New Zealand, and I presume other countries we have migrated to, including Canada, Australia and USA. Now, does not one see a hint of hypocrisy when we speak highly of our brotherly-sisterly festivals of Raksha Bandhan and Bhai Duj? Fiji has high incidents of family violence, which among others, involve assault on wives by husbands, but violence need not be physical-it also manifests as mental stress as well. This trend appears to have developed into a culture where the migrants, especially Indo-Fijians, who have migrated to developed countries, took this excess–baggage with them. While statistics in New Zealand speaks clearly, Indian migrants to Australia, Canada and USA can still feel consoled because no apparent statistics are available. However, one cannot bet their life away by saying we do not have this problem there as well. Therefore, as we approach Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan festival, it is pertinent to raise the issue of family violence and respect for women.

Indians hold the festival of Raksha Bandhan in great reverence where brothers pledge to protect their sisters. It is such colourful, meaningful and rich festivals like this which makes India and Hindus proud. History of Raksha Bandhan extends to mythological times of Lord Krishn and Dropadi and to Rani Karnavati of Chittor and Mughal Emperor Humayun, which dates back to 1535. The central ceremony involves the tying of a Rakhi (sacred thread) by a sister on her brother’s wrist. This symbolizes the sister’s love and prayers for her brother’s well-being, and the brother’s lifelong vow to protect her. That is Raksha Bandhan.

Last year, when the highly acclaimed Amir Khan’s Satyamev Jayate, was played on TV, it covered the topic of family violence, still quite relevant to Indo-Fijian migrants and Indians in general.

For countless women, entering married life often means the beginning of a stressful, violent existence. Beating one’s wife seems to be ingrained in many men’s mindsets as the appropriate behaviour for a strong male, but the consequences are misery for the wife and children, and often a broken, unhappy home.

In the show Amir Khan asks the audience the locations where women are in the greatest danger. Public transport, railways and 30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

• Raksha Bandhan in Canada. Here Shakila Prasad of Brisbane, Australia (back) seen with her brothers Raymond Raj (left) of Kitimat, BC Canada and Thakur Ranjit Singh of Auckland, New Zealand during last year’s Raksha Bandhan in Kitimat BC, Canada after tying Raakhi, with sweets for brothers. They are wishing a Happy Raksha Bandhan to all brothers and sisters. This year, this festival falls on 21 August, 2013, but rakhi is tied from a month leading to the Raksha Bandhan Day.

call centers were the answers received from audience. Hence, it seems women are in the biggest danger in public places.

However this was proved wrong by investigations of injuries reported to hospitals and reports to the local police stations.

Hence what it all proved is that women are not in the biggest danger while in public places, but while in their own homes.

That is not only confined to India but among Indo-Fijians in New Zealand as well.

The issue we have is for Hindu and Indian groups to recognize the problem and address the vice, because richness in our culture on respect for sisters and women seem to be inversely related to how we actually treat them. In fact, for celebration of Raksha Bandhan, my suggestion would be to pass a message to our community to address the issue about respect for women and family violence. This is because celebrations are good avenues for addressing social issues in the community. Therefore sisters, when you tie the sacred thread, Rakhi on your brothers’ hands, please ask them not only to vow to protect you, but your Bhabhis (sisterin-laws) – their wives as well, because they also are somebody’s sister.

Therefore I plead to all brothers to accept this theme and slogan for all Raksha Bandhan in future: Tumhari bahen ka main rakshak mere ghar mein, meri bahen ka tu rakshak apne ghar mein. In other words, I request all brothers to take this pledge please: I vow to protect your sister in my home, please pledge to protect mine in your home.

We cannot continue to happily celebrate Raksha Bandhan while our sisters get beaten up by their husbands behind closed doors in their own homes, without community taking any positive action.

Unfortunately, Hindu Council of New Zealand, which organized the Auckland Racha Bandhan festival, rejected my suggestion of social theme, saying festivals are times of celebrations, singing, dancing and enjoyment, not for addressing social issues. What a blinkered and myopic view for leadership which gets awards for turning a social event into a multiracial feel-good display of culture, but which add little value to our community wellbeing.

Let us all join in the spirit of Raksha Bandhan to respect all women, and introduce social theme for betterment of our women.

Happy Raksha Bandhan to all.

[E-mail- thakurji@xtra.co.nz ] [Thakur Ranjit Singh advocates change in community attitudes towards festivals we celebrate, to address issues in our communities.

Otherwise the well-meaning festivals remain hollow and meaningless. This article appears in newspapers in Fiji, Australia, USA and Canada as well, apart from his blogsite, FIJI PUNDIT which you can get at www.fijipundit.blogspot.co.nz]

www.indiantimes.com.au

DEAR Brisbane Indian Times readers, Welcome to a new article of our exiting journey through the Inspired Indians column.

What is the purpose of this article?

The main purpose of this article is to inspire our BIT readers and families to excel in their life, work and be proud citizens of Australia and influence our community with hope and love.

Additionally, it is to explore the greater potential for which you have been created.

To find insights, wisdom and understandings that will help you make better choices daily.

Indians around the world celebrate Independence Day this month. It was an amazing achievement surely worth to remember and reflect on the immense sacrifice our leaders have made.

Today, it is our responsibility to build the nation by practicing high moral values and ethics in our daily life. True values of freedom are passed on to every citizen when social justice is available to the most vulnerable people.

Consider India today, economic powerhouse with so much of rapid growth in the past few decades. But it looks like we have lost the battle for the moral freedom.

Do Indians have true freedom in India?

Do we care for the one another? (Willing to stand for poor and weak) What about corruption that corroded the foundation of the nation? The leaders have lost the vision of freedom for the poor and weak. Chennai has been named top corruption capital city in India!

We need to inspire our new generation to dream of a nation where corruption is a history and rape and killings are never tolerated. We need to dream of a freedom that only comes from a heart and soul that has been cleansed and freed from the evil of this society.

Jesus promises to give such a heart and soul to all who comes to Him in faith. He made a divine exchange on the cross taking away the evil nature of mankind and giving us His righteousness.

As we trust and obey His word and Spirit we can bring true freedom to mankind and produce fruit of the Holy Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Let the true freedom reign in your heart and soul for this your time to shine.

Whom the Son of God sets free is free indeed and enjoys true freedom daily.

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Tranquil sanctuary of Palm Cove, Queensland

By Rama Gaind A SERENE environment sets the scene for an unforgettable sojourn. It’s hard to believe that from your colonial ‘beach house’ luxury in Palm Cove you can partake of a memorable adventure as you discover the natural wonders of tropical north Queensland.

Set sail for the colourful coral gardens of the Great Barrier Reef, take a journey through the ancient rainforests of the Daintree and Cape Tribulation or head for the hills and the unassuming wonders of the Atherton Tablelands.

You can certainly unwind on the palmfringed white sandy beach and contemplate the gentle waves of the Coral Sea, be adventurous and go for white-water rafting, take a 4WD safari or tone down the pace with golf.

Experience the inviting character exuded by the quaint village—where no building is higher than the coconut palms—and you’ll find restaurants, old-world retail outlets, bars and cafes.

Tranquil sanctuary In the midst of this is the tranquil sanctuary of The Reef House Boutique Resort and Spa which enjoys idyllic, beach frontage in Williams Esplanade overlooking the azure waters of the Coral Sea. The plantation design of this 69-room waterfront property exudes a dazzling character—particularly with the white buildings—as a perfect foil to turquoise pools and attractive gardens of blooming red hibiscus, fragrant frangipanis and hot pink bougainvillea vines. The towering 300-year-old melaleucas are a magnificent statement on entry to the resort.

• Palm-fringed, white sandy beach and the Coral Sea is right across the road from the Reef House Boutique Resort and Spa in Palm Cove, Qld. Photo: Rama Gaind

General manager Brett Skinner is proud vice. of the resort’s history with some stylish That was certainly the case as we partook restoration in store since the take over by of the five-course degustation menu that Accor. was matched to award-winning The complex has a cerAustralian and international tain undeniable sophisticawines and served with flair. It tion: it oozes character was created with passion by with the added attraction executive chef Ashe Lewis and of access to the beach his dynamic team, proving that across the road. The rooms simple ingredients are the reaoffer privacy with the luxson for success. ury of balconies that proNot far from Reef House is vide uninterrupted sea, another lovely property pool or garden views.

Peppers Beach Club & Spa The signature restaurant where dining at the Lime & offers an unforgettable Pepper restaurant was a sheer dining experience with the treat with a majestic 600-yearcombination of location old melaleuca tree taking cenand delectable modern • Award-winning Ram tre stage.

Australian cuisine made Bharadwaj at Reef House Indian connection from hand-picked fresh Boutique Resort and Spa in It was also a bonus to meet felproduce and attentive ser- Palm Cove, Qld. low countrymen from India in

Palm Cove.

Duty manager Ram Bharadwaj, 28, has been at the resort since June 2013, but has built up an impressive portfolio of work for the Accor group.

He worked for the company in Darwin for two years, before transferring to the Mercure in Townsville in April 2011, where as assistant manager he received the coveted Chris Frost Memorial Award for his ‘determination, hard work and effectiveness’ as part of the team.

Ram is excited about the planned refurbishment at Reef House saying it will be a “great challenge ahead to bring the hotel back to its old glory, with realistic timelines.”

Born in Mysore, India, Ram grew up in Bangalore, attaining his bachelor’s degree in hotel management and a master’s degree in international hospitality from the University of South Australia in 2010.

“I always had an interest in hospitality, service and travel and coming to Australia was my first choice … love the sunny weather.”

There’s even an Indian restaurant in the village—Maharajas Palm Cove—which owner Dinkrit Singh has been operating for six years. Some of the more novel dishes on the menu are Bharatpur duck curry, Sailana jungli mans, Jaisalmer murg mussallam and Banarasi gobhi mussallum.

Whatever your fancy—luxury, adventure or leisure—there will be no shortage of options as you relax, unwind and recharge after exploring the region’s natural wonders from reef to the rainforest and everything else in between!

Rama Gaind was a guest at Reef House Boutique Resort and Spa, Palm Cove, Qld.

Trek to Gaumukh & Tapovan

By Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad, India I HAVE been exploring the different regions of Indian Himalayas, since nearly 18 years now. Here, I would like to share some of the pages from my travel diary.

I met a sage in Gangotri who told me “Bhramaan se Bhram Mitta Hai” which means “you clear your misconceptions through your travel”. It is so true. I arrived at Gangotri from Uttarkashi. The most important reason for visiting Gangotri was to trek up to Gaumukh and to Tapovan, if time & weather permits.

Gangotri is a small holy town packed during the months from April end to June mid for the “charm dham yatra”.

The place has a certain charm to it. They say that when the Ganga arrived on this earth, it is here in Gangotri; where she started her journey throughout the country. Seeing the Ganga flow with all her might is very intimidating yet a certain pinch of calm and serenity strikes with the temple bells ringing behind and the priests chanting shlokas behind you.

As always, during my mountain travels, I had my booking at the “Gharwal Nigam Mandal Vikas Nigam” (GMVN).

This government run mid sized hotel off the main temple street and offers a much more seclusion and silence from the pilgrims. I stayed at Hanuman Chatti which was rather falling apart.

I had decided to spend few days in Gangotri to get familiar to the high altitude trekking and prepare for my trek towards Gaumukh and Tapovan. I had got necessary permissions for the trek from Uttarkashi = District head quarter, itself and happened to meet a local trek operator here who directed me about the entire trek. I was advised to take a porter along as they are familiar with the route. At Gangotri, I happened to speak to few porters, finally I managed to pick up one.

My three days stay at Gangotri was very comfortable and I was brimming with spiritual exuberance. I talked up with the locals and gathered all the information one would need for the trek. Some had stories to share that were rather frightening but all of them strictly advised me to take a porter along if I was going further to Tapovan, I only realized why they told me so when I reached Gaumukh.

Day 1: Gangotri to Bhojwasa On Monday, I started my trek towards Bhojwasa which is 14kms from Gangotri. I carried few packets of biscuits for the way and filled my bottle with some fresh water. On my way I could see the Neelkanth Peak far ahead of me. The narrow path often escalates and leaves you breathless. The view around makes the effort worth every bit. The air gets sharper as you ascend and one can actually feel the cold icy feeling within you.

On my way I found many pilgrims who were going to Gaumukh. I perhaps was the only planning to go to Tapovan alone. At times it felt daunting but the surge of Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

adventure often kept my spirits high. The plan was to reach Bhojwasa and look for someone who can lead me to Tapovan. I was rather comfortable with the climb and took my hourly rest of 15 minutes and my photo breaks which were happening too often as the landscape changes with every corner you approach.

Four hours and 12kms into the trek comes Cheerbasa; where your permit is checked again. Earlier this place had tiny hamlets that used to sell tea and snacks but the government has banned all such activities for past three years now. A small check post is seen down hill. From here Bhojwasa is around 2 kilometers trek which gets rather strenuous as you are almost at 11480 ft above sea level.

In some places the route is totally destroyed by the land slides. There is very narrow passage and only one person at a time can cross this. Passing this area get even tough as the rocks are loose and getting a good grip is difficult. A fall would mean a serious injury and getting help out here is considerably difficult.

After 6 hours of trek I finally reached Bhojwasa which can be seen in a valley below. Most pilgrims take the route ahead to Gaumukh and on their way back they stop here.

Bhojwasa is a very small temporary settlement set up to aid the Gaumukh yatra. This place has few places to stay like the “GMVN” guest house but the more popular place is “Lal Babaji Ashram”. I took shelter here for the night and was provided with some warm food and blankets. A much needed rest after a hectic trek of 14kms that last around 6 hours.

The view from Bhojwasa is even exhilarating. The Neelkanth peak looks even more lively and mighty than it does from Gangotri. There are numerous other peaks that dot the sky line. One feels rather humble and very mortal by the view of such mammoth natural wonders. Stay at Bhojwasa proved to be fruitful and I happened to meet a porter I earlier spoke to in Gangotri but then I could strike a deal with him. This porter was taking a single person to Tapovan the next day; a Spanish lady who visits the Mauni Baba, a holdy Sadhu living in Tapovan for past three years now.

I requested him to take me along and he was more than happy to have another person for company. The porters are mostly Nepalis and are very polite & humble people. If you speak to them nicely and offer things you have they will help you out. My work was done and I was going to Tapovan but then I always had a doubt if I could make the climb. I have traveled a lot but this was perhaps the most daring thing I was about to do in my whole life. But the next day after a good night’s sleep we were on our way to Gaumukh and then to Tapovan.

Day: 2 .Bhojwasa to Tapovan.

Gaumukh is roughly 4kms from Bhojwasa and the terrain gets rockier & difficult. The path is paved but it is very weathered in most of the places, making it hard on your feet. The sharp edged rocks at times are painful if stepped www.indiantimes.com.au

with a lot of forward force. We covered the distance in just two hours and then stopped at the small temple that’s been made to mark Gamukh and the origin of the Holy Ganga.

We decided to rest here for 15 minutes. Meanwhile I got busy clicking the view around me. Yes it was Gaumukh at 13120 ft above sea level. The glacier has receded quite a lot over the year and now has been pushed away considerably.

We then started perhaps the most challenging part of the trek, onwards to Tapovan which is at a distance of 4kms from Gaumukh and is almost parallel to it.

The porter led us to a higher ground from the left side of the Gaumukh glacier. As we ascended, the route totally disappeared and what left was the stone path upwards which crumbled at slightest pressure. I was walking on and could see crevasses next to me that are more than often deadly.

Now I understood why everyone advised me on taking a porter to Tapovan. If you are new to this place you will get lost or even worse fall in to a crevasse.

The climb was taking a toll on my body and the thin air made the climb even more testing. The porter asked me not to stop until we reached the top of the glacier, later I was told that the rocks fall can be life threatening. I did manage to reach the top of the glacier and saw at a distance I was up against. A very steep hill was to be climbed up to reach Tapovan. From a distance this hill looked virtually impossible. But this was not it. To reach this hill we had to pass through the remaining glacier. The path was rather treacherous as you can’t make out which part is ice and which part is stone. The mud on top of the icy glacier makes it look like a firm land but as you step on it you slip down.

Any further struggle would cause you to slip further.

Continued next issue THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 31

Overcoming Sins LAST month we had read an article about various types of Sins. In this article we will see what one can do to eliminate the effects of sin.

A person who makes mistakes or does an evil deed incurs sin. All of us are bound to incur sin at some time or another.

It is possible to eliminate even the greatest sin by strictly abiding by Righteousness (Dharma) with faith and courage.

Depending on our basic temperament, stage in life and other factors, adhering to Righteousness may involve: * Penance (e.g. for those who follow the Path of Hathayoga this may involve exposing the body to prolonged periods of discomfort) * Control over the mind, sense organs and motor organs (e.g. speaking only as much

as necessary, control over sexual desire, etc.) * Control over the body (e.g. the speed of breathing, etc.) * Sacrifice Due to the Raja-Tama predominant lifestyle in the current era of Kaliyug, for most people leading a righteous lifestyle is difficult.

Another way to eliminate the consequences of sin is through atonement.

Atonement is feeling remorse for mistakes or evil deeds committed and taking appropriate punishment to cleanse the resulting sin. Atonement involves penance and determination. Some benefits of atoning are: * Atonement absolves an individual of the guilt feeling arising out of the misdeed. * Atonement absolves an individual of the consequences of sin. * Atonement helps develop a feeling of contentment in the individual, as well as

ARYA PRATINIDHI SABHA OF QLD INC The qualities of God, Soul and Matter AT the dawn of every less, Souls can do most Creation, God takes things like God in a Matter and makes it limited way, but cannot into five elements create a Sun Moon, Jitendra Deo Space, Wind, Fire, place and sustain them President Water and Earth, and where they are as it cancomposed them into a not achieve any thing whole proportionately which is called the without creating a cause.

Cosmos. God makes the bodies out of the Soul is the master of the whole body strucmaterials of the Cosmos which the Souls ture. The five cognitive senses send their occupy, any object which grows or moves respective messages to the mind, and the has presence of Soul. When Soul is mind relays the messages to the intellect. removed from the body by death or other- The intellect then sends the messages to the wise it does not function and starts to decay, Soul, which makes decision of good and this is the normal or natural course or func- bad. The Ego gives the Soul the power to tion of every created object from the Sun to think individually. The eyes only function a Microbe. with light, the ears with wind, the nostrils God Soul and Matter are combined togeth- with water, the tongue with water, the skin er to make this Cosmos. God is the Agential with feelings from earth. The five cognitive cause, and Matter is material cause. Souls senses function because of space and graviare the purpose of this creation, from eter- ty. The Souls of humans are influenced by nity to eternity. This is a perfect plan, and impressions or Sanskaar’s and the impressince it is perfect there is no room for revi- sions are left in the memory bank for future sion, if any one has to make something, he references. has to find a maker, material and purpose The five Cognitive senses are related to before reality is achieved. In every creation the five elements which are space Air, Sun, this procedure is adopted, perfection never Water and Earth. If a person wants to do under goes correction addition or subtrac- something, he has to use the cognitive senstion, perfection is a quality of God. God is es and it could be one or more of the five Perfect, eternal and all powerful, all know- elements. ing and present everywhere at the same Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 time. Matter is eternal and cannot create or Hari Chand 33454716 for information itself, Souls are eternal, and have limited on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of power to think and to act. Souls are innu- Queensland or log on: merable in number or you may say count- www.aryasamajqueensland.com

those around him. * By seeing the individual who has committed injustice atoning for his mistakes, hatred in the mind of the victim decreases or diminishes.

Depending on the gravity of the sin, atonements can range from mild to severe. Sins committed unknowingly can generally be absolved through repentance or through public confession of the sin. Some examples of atonements are going on a pilgrimage, donation, fasting, etc.

The difference between punishment and atonement is in the repentance of the person who atones for their sin. The person atoning is bound by a vow. However merely confessing to the crime or facing punishment does not prevent an individual from repeatedly making those mistakes.

Chanting creates a centre of devotion in the subconscious mind and deflects thoughts arising from it.

Our stock of merits and sins from past births is also stored in the subconscious mind. Just like the sun destroys the fog or melts the snow, in addition to eliminating unnecessary thoughts from the mind, chanting destroys our sins too. When chanting starts happening with devotion, the very desires which led us to sin are eventually also washed away.

The six foes are the fundamental reasons that lead to sinning. Dissuading a person from sinning would be effective only if they understood the rules pertaining to sinning and its consequences. Eliminating our defects and desires that lead to sin is possible through regular spiritual practice.

You can read more about this article on http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/ atonement-overcoming-sin You can e-mail us your comments and queries at shobhana.shet@spiritual researchfoundation.org

The first day...

Dear reader, it is with encouraging him to stir great joy we bring you up, rekindle and fan the the word of God. flame of the gift of God Sometimes it is easy to in his life. Timothy was to forget the first day at remind himself continuwork, the first day Pastor Joseph Dass ously of the goodness of when you fell in love, God in his life. the first day when you moved into your That means if we are to maintain somenew house, the first day of the birth of a thing we have to be passionate towards it. child. But now years later it has become a When we lose our enthusiasm and joy routine. There is not much excitement at towards something, we could be moving work, marriage is routine and it’s the same away from it. old car.

Perhaps today you are waiting for the next There is a story of this man who after sev- big break, or for the next big thing to haperal interviews finally got a job. He was so pen at work, or your spouse to change, excited that he went and bought new your children to do right then you will get clothes, new pair of shoes and even a new your passion back, then you could be waitGPS (Global Positioning system). Now 3 ing for a long time. years later he was still using his GPS to get So today why don’t you take a moment to work. A friend asked him why he was and get your enthusiasm back. When you still using his GPS after being at the com- are thankful for your job, you are thankful pany for so long. that you are married, thankful that you The man explained how he never forgot have children, you are making way to get the excitement and enthusiasm he had your passion back. when he arrived for work on the first day.

It just looks like the first day. When you Even now after some years he had not lost get passionate about your work, your job is his passion for work. He had made up his more important than all the things that did mind not to lose the joy of his first day at not go your way. When you get passionate work. about your marriage, your spouse becomes In the scriptures we read “This is the day more important then their bad habits. that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and When you get passionate about your chilbe glad”. Just like each day comes as a gift dren, you realise your children are more to us and we are to be passionate about it, important than all the mistakes they can like wise we are responsible to maintain make. It just looks like the FIRST DAY. our enthusiasm at work, in our marriage etc.

God Bless you In 2 Timothy 1 v 6 Paul wrote to Timothy Ps Joseph Dass

The decline of Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji

By Prof Biman Prasad I ATTENDED the Easter weekend convention of the Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji since I wanted to support the Dreketi soccer team which was formed by the younger players living in Suva. I was impressed with the energy of the younger players and their enthusiasm towards community participation. While attending the soccer tournament, I had the opportunity to sit through the opening ceremony of the convention at the Shreedhar Maharaj College, in Nausori. A school named after a great Sanatani, moral and ethical community and religious leader and a businessman, the late Mr Shreedhar Maharaj. The opening ceremony had a total of approximately 300 people who had congregated in the leaking and soggy shed; most of those who attended were women who had travelled from different districts to attend the convention. In fact, more people are usually present during individual Ramayan mandali gatherings around the country and in temples than the numbers present at the annual convention.

The presidential speech by Mr Dewan Chand Maharaj was more

like a talk given by a local community leader to primary school students on unity, HIV and how Sanatani’s should always promote unity and how women should behave in society. He even, wrongly stated that the President of Fiji was Ratu Epeli Ganilau.

The Chief Guest Indian High Commissioner brought some respect back to the occasion by his very clear, concise and excellent speech about the role of Sanatani’s in Fiji and how they could contribute to building a multiracial Fiji. I believe the poor planning failed to attract a decent crowd to the convention, a direct reflection of very poor and pathetic leadership. In fact the whole opening ceremony was a disgrace. I could not stop myself from reminiscing, the excellent leadership provided by people like Honourable Harish Sharma, Pt. Salik Ram Sharma and Mr Surendra Kumar.

Thousands of enthusiastic Sanatani’s used to attend the annual convention in the past.

The current leadership of the Sabha has put the whole organization to disrepute. One has to only compare ethical and professional leadership standards shown by other religious and cultural organizations in Fiji with what the

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha is able to put up. It then does not take long to understand why so many Sanatani’s have been put off by the current leadership. Many are disillusioned with the organization and have shied away from participating in its activities. What you hear from the ramblings of Mr Vijendra Prakash and Mr Dewan Maharaj is lectures to the ordinary members on how they should behave and not question them. In addition, no one questions their individual loyalty and support to the Bainimarama government. Mr Vijendra Prakash and Mr Dewan Maharaj have given statements and dragged the Sabha into the political arena by openly declaring that the Sabha supports the government’s draft constitution. This is nothing short of misrepresenting the views of the ordinary members. Nothing was discussed about the draft Constitution at the convention yet Mr Vijendra Prakash and Mr Dewan Maharaj have gone openly to the media declaring the Sabah’s support for the draft constitution.

In fact they have gone against the government’s often stated position that religious organizations should remain apolitical.

The future of the Sanatan Dharam www.indiantimes.com.au

Prithinidhi Sabha looks grim. The organization led by Mr Dewan Maharaj and his Secretary, Mr Vijendra Prakash have managed to implement a new Constitution which has several undemocratic provisions. The election held on Sunday to elect the office bearers other than the President cannot be said to be fair and transparent. The General Secretary, Mr Vijendra Prakash, who was contesting the election, was involved in the so called sorting/counting out of the votes. Where are the moral and ethical standards of these officials who preach publicly about moral and ethical standards?

To add insult to injury to all the Sanatani’s in Fiji, a man who is currently before the court for presenting false transfer documents to transfer a temple property belonging to Shree Sanatan Dharam Nasea Ramayan Mandali to the Sanatan Dharam Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji, has been elected National President. If he was a person with principles, he should have stood aside and let one of the senior Vice Presidents e.g. Mr Ashok Balgovind to act as President until his court case is resolved.

The trustees of the organization must act now and ask all the

national officials to stand aside until an independent investigation is carried out on all the activities of the Sabha, its elections, its finances, processes and procedures. If the investigation shows irregularities in any aspect of the organization, especially in the process of adopting the new Constitution of the Sabha, the finances and the conduct of the elections, the office bearers should all be asked to resign and a fresh election be called. In fact, any good leader would have handed over the leadership to the Trustees, after the failed convention. This would have saved the Sabha from further disunity and fragmentation. The current leadership has presided over a most disunited organization since its inception. If the largest Hindu organisation in Fiji begins to put its leadership into the hands of a person who is currently before the court, and allows it to be run by unconstitutional, unethical and unclear means, it is unlikely to serve its members effectively.

The view expressed in this article does not reflect in anyway the view of my employer, the University of the South Pacific.

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Ramadhan was a time to reflect...

By Maulana Nawaaz Aashrafi ALHAMDULILAH, Praise and Glory be to Almighty Allah, the Supreme Sovereign of the skies and the earth. Greetings and Salutations on our beloved and illustrious Master, Nabi Muhammad (pbuh), His family, friends and all believers until the end of time.

The world is in so much turmoil today. The global suffering and chaotic state of society are clear symptoms of the world’s state of spiritual bankruptcy. The prevalent moral decadence is a manifestation of man’s enslavement by his beastly qualities (nafs).

Oh Muslims, be dutiful to Allah Who created us and moulded us in the best of forms. He infused the human being with Ruh (the pure life giving force) as well as Nafs (beastly qualities).

When the Lord created the Nafs entity, and asked it, Who are you ? It replied: I am as mighty and powerful as you are Oh Lord. Then Allah burnt it in Hell fire for a thousand years. Again Allah asked the nafs the same question and it gave the same arrogant reply for the second time. Allah then froze it in the icy hell for a thousand years. After the nafs gave the same arrogant reply for the third time, Allah made it to fast for a thousand years. Finally, Allah asked it: Who are you? The nafs then replied. You are the Almighty Creator of the universe and I am your humble slave Oh Allah.

Allah makes reference in the Glorious Qur’an with regards to the Nafs in Surah 91:8.

“Successful is the one who purifies (and tames) his nafs. And unsuccessful is he who becomes enslaved by it (the nafs).”

Oh Muslims, the glorious month of Ramadhan arrived on our doorstep and is leaving soon. This month is an honoured guest from Allah, offering ailing humanity the cure of spiritual rejuvenation and revitalization. This is the month of opportunity to bring about spiritual and moral reformation within ourselves and our environment.

Our blessed Prophet (pbuh) said: “If my ummah knew the value of Ramadhan, they would wish Ramadhan to prevail the entire year.”

The Holy Prophet Moses (pbuh) requested to see Allah. The Lord said: Oh Musa, you cannot see me as there are seventy thousand veils between us.

However, I shall give a month as a gift to the Ummah of my beloved Prophet Muhammad, which shall be called Ramadhan. Whoever of the believers will fast in this month, I shall so manifest myself at the time of Iftaar, there will be no veil between me and them.”

In a sacred Hadith Qudsi, Allah says: “Fasting is for me and I will reward it.”

Oh servants of Allah, Ramadhan brings us in touch with our beloved creator, who is closer to us than our life-vein. Everyone of us is a dormant volcano. Let your spiritual lava erupt and flow towards the Divine throne. How wonderful to know Allah and feel His ever divine presence?

Dear brothers in Islam;Surat An-Nahl verse 111 means: [On the Day when everyone will plead for himself and when every soul will reap what it had sown and they shall not be wronged.] Allah The Exalted informs us in this verse that on the Day of Judgment every person will be pleading their own case without worrying about anyone else’s situation rather each will be saying “me, me”.

Every single one of us today will depart from this temporary and perishable world. Indeed the Messenger of Allah sallallahu ^alayhi wa sallam said: [I wonder how one be in demand of the pleasures of this world when death demands him, and I wonder how one does not question his state of sin when he is accountable for his deeds and shall be questioned, and I wonder how one could laugh so much when he does not know whether or not he is safe on the Day of Judgment.]

Therefore remember that you shall depart from this life, and that this world is no substitute for the Hereafter, and that Allah subhanahu wa ta^ala shall resurrect all from the graves. Verse 16 of SuratulMu’minun means: [And on the Day of Judgment you shall be resurrected.]

For this reason, ask yourself before you get asked and know with conviction that the punishment of Allah is severe, and that the non-believers shall remain in Hellfire forever never to exit from it, as was explicitly confirmed in the Qur’an and Sunnah.

They will have no food except “Dari” which is a tree that is awfully unattractive, extremely bitter and distasteful with a horrible smell. It neither nourishes nor satisfies hunger.

Verses 43 to 46 of Surat Ad-Dukhan mean: 43. The food of the Zaqum tree 44. shall be the food of the guilty sinners.

45. Like molten copper boiling in the belly, 46. As boiling water does.

This tree is dreadfully ugly with an unbearable smell, however due to the extreme hunger; the disbelievers eat from it as though they eat it without having a choice. The angels of punishment feed it to them. In addition the inhabitants of hellfire eat from “Ghislin”.

Verses 35 to 37 of Surat Al-Haqqah mean: 35. Today the punished shall have no close friend to run to, 36. nor any food except “Ghislin” (foul pus) 37. that none but sinners eat.

Ghislin is what flows down from the skin of Hellfire’s inhabitants. Each time their skin melts from the fire, Allah replaces them with another layer of skin. Allah ta^ala replaces their skin with another layer of skin that is damp and moist, and when this new skin melts, it turns into a great amount of waste and skin extracts. Allah ta^ala has made this the food of the inhabitants of hellfire. It is mentioned that if a small amount of Ghislin is poured down on earth, it would devastate the state of living for all its inhabitants.

Therefore remain steadfast my dear brother on Islam and on performing the righteous deeds, and remember the saying of Allah ta^ala in verse 124 of Suratun-Nisa’ which means: 124. [Whosoever performs good deeds, be it a male or female, as long as they are believers, shall enter Paradise, and

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shall not be wronged a pit mark of a date stone.], meaning that injustice is impossible to be among the attributes of Allah.

We ask Allah to make us among those who follow the guidance of the Prophet and make our end, on the state of piety. Amin EID-UL-FITR During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast and participate in pious activities such as charitable giving and peace-making. It is a time of intense spiritual renewal for those who observe it. At the end of Ramadan, Muslims throughout the world observe a joyous celebration called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Fast-Breaking).

Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the month which follows Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. It is a time to give in charity to those in need, and celebrate with family and friends the completion of a month of blessings and joy.

Before the day of Eid, during the last few days of Ramadan, each Muslim family gives a determined amount as a donation to the poor. This donation is of actual food — rice, barley, dates, rice, etc. — to ensure that the needy can have a holiday meal and participate in the celebration. This donation is known as sadaqah al-fitr (charity of fast-breaking).

On the day of Eid, Muslims gather early in the morning in outdoor locations or mosques to perform the Eid prayer. This consists of a sermon followed by a short congregational prayer.

After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually scatter to visit various family and friends, give gifts (especially to children), and make phone calls to distant relatives to give well-wishes for the holiday. These activities traditionally continue for three days. In most Muslim countries, the entire 3-day period is an official government/school holiday.

THE TAKBEER OF EID-UL-FITR It was narrated from Ibn ‘Umar (ra) that he used to come to the prayer-place on the morning of the day of Eid al-Fitr, when the sun had risen, and he would recite Takbeer until he reached the prayer-place, then he would recite Takbeer in the prayer-place until the imam sat down and stopped reciting Takbeer.

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Allah is Great, Allah is Great Allahu Akbar Allah is Great La illaha il Allah there is no God, but Allah Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Allah is Great, Allah is Great walilahil Hamd to Him belongs all Praise *************************************** Allahu Akbar Kabeera Allah is the Greatest wal-Hamdulilahi katheera And all Praise is due to Him wa Subhan allahi And Glory to Allah bukratan wa aseila eventide and in the morning La illaha il Allah there is no God, but Allah the Unique sadaqa wa’dah He has fulfilled His Promise wa nasara abda and made Victorious His servant wa a’azza jundahu and made Mighty His soldiers wa hazamal-ahzaaba wahdah and defeated the confederates La illaha il Allah there is no God, But Allah wa laa na’budu illa iyyah He alone we worship mukhlessena lahud-deena with sincere and exclusive devotion walaw karehal-Kafeeroon even though the idolaters hate it *************************************** Allahumma salli ala sayyedna Muhammad S O Allah, have Mercy on our Prophet Muhammad S wa ala aalie sayyedna Muhammad S and on the family of our Prophet Muhammad S wa ala as-haabie sayyedna Muhammad S and on the companions of our Prophet Muhammad S wa ala ansari sayyedna Muhammad S and on the helpers of our Prophet Muhammad S wa ala azwajie sayyedna Muhammad S and on the wives of our Prophet Muhammad S wa ala dhurreyatie sayyedna Muhammad S and on the progeny of our Prophet Muhammad S wa sallim tasleeman katheera and Bestow upon them much peace. *************************************** What is the ruling on fasting six days of Shawwaal? Is it waajib (obligatory)?

Praise be to Allaah.

Fasting six days of Shawwaal after the obligatory fast of Ramadaan isSunnah Mustahabbah, not waajib. It is recommended for the Muslim to fast six days of Shawwaal, and in this there is great virtue and an immense reward. Whoever fasts these six days will have recorded for him a reward as if he had fasted a whole year, as was reported in a saheeh hadeeth from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Abu Ayyoob (may Allaah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan and follows it with six days of Shawwaal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime.” (Narrated by Muslim, Abu Dawood, alTirmidhi, al-Nisaa’i and Ibn Maajah).

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) explained this when he said: “Whoever fasts for six days after (Eid) al-Fitr has completed the year: (whoever does a good deed (hasanah) will have ten hasanah like it).” According to another report: “Allaah has made for each hasanah ten like it, so a month is like fasting ten months, and fasting six days

completes the year.” (al-Nisaa’i and Ibn Maajah. See also Saheeh al-Targheeb wa’l-Tarheeb, 1/421). It was also narrated by Ibn Khuzaymah with the wording: “Fasting for the month of Ramadaan brings the reward of ten like it, and fasting for six days brings the reward of two months, and that is the fasting of the whole year.”

The Hanbali and Shaafa’i fuqaha’ explained that fasting six days of Shawwaal after fasting Ramadaan makes it as if one has fasted for an entire year of obligatory fasts, because the multiplication of the reward applies even to naafil fasts, because each hasanah brings the reward of ten like it.

Another of the important benefits of fasting six days of Shawwaal is that is makes up for any shortfall in a person’s obligatory Ramadaan fasts, because no one is free of shortcomings or sins that have a negative effect on his fasting. On the Day of Resurrection, some of his naafil deeds will be taken to make up the shortcomings in his obligatory deeds, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The first thing for which people will be brought to account on the Day of Resurrection will be their salaah (prayer). Our Lord, may He be glorified and exalted, will say to His angels – although He knows best – ‘Look at the salaah of My slave, whether it is complete or incomplete.’ If it is perfect, it will be recorded as perfect, and if something is lacking, He will say, ‘Look and see whether My slave did any voluntary (naafil) prayers.’ If he did some voluntary prayers, [Allaah] will say, Complete the obligatory actions of My slave from his voluntary actions.’ Then all his actions will be dealt with in a similar manner.” (Narrated by Abu Dawood).

And Allaah knows best.

The Call of Nabi Ibrahim( as) When Ibrahim alayhis salaam completed the structure of the Ka’bah, Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala commanded him to call the people to Hajj. Ibrahim alayhis salaam pleaded, “O Allah! How shall my voice reach all of those people?” Allah subhanahu wa ta’aala told him that his duty was only to give the call and it was up to Allah to make it reach the people.

Ibrahim alayhis salaam then climbed Mount Arafat and called out in his loudest voice, “O People! Verily Allah has prescribed upon you Hajj, so perform Hajj.”

Allah subhaanahu wa ta’ala revealed in the Qur’an: And proclaim the Hajj among mankind. They will come to thee on foot and (mounted) on every camel, lean on account of journeys through deep and distant mountain highways (Al-Hajj 22/28).

To this very day millions upon millions of Muslims continue to answer the call of Prophet Ibrahim alayhis salaam. Perhaps this year or next year you or I shall be amongst those who answer the call.

‘Amr ibn Al-‘Aas narrates that when his heart entered Islam he went to the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam and said, “Give me your hand so that I may pledge allegiance to you.”

The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam spread his hand, but ‘Amr withdrew his.

The Prophet sal Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam asked, “What is wrong ‘Amr?” Amr said, “I want to make a condition.”

“And what is that?” asked the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.

“That Allah will forgive me.”

Then the Messenger of Allah said, “Did you not know that Islam wipes out what came before it, and that Hijrah wipes out what came before it, and that Hajj wipes out what came before it” (Sahih Muslim)!

Hajj is the fifth pillar upon which Islam stands. Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala made it compulsory upon every able Muslim male and female to perform it, at least once in a lifetime.

Allah revealed: Hajj thereto is a duty mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the journey, but if any deny faith, Allah stands not in need of any of His creatures (A’le-Imran 3/97).

Performance of the Hajj washes away all sins.

Abu Hurairah narrates, “I heard the Prophet say, ‘Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any rafath (obscenity) or fusooq (transgression), he returns (free from sin) as the day his mother bore him’” (Sahih Bukhari).

Hajj is one of the greatest deeds one can accomplish in his or her lifetime.

Abu Hurairah narrates that the Prophet was asked, “What deed is the best?”

He said, “Eman in Allah and His Messenger.”

“Then what?”

“Jihaad in the cause of Allah.”

“Then what?”

“Hajj Mabroor, a Hajj accepted by Allah subhaanahu wa ta’ala.”

Abu Sha’thaa’ said, “I contemplated the good deeds that a person does. I found that salaah as well as fasting are a jihaad of the body. And that zakaah and sadaqa is a jihaad of someone’s wealth. But Hajj is a jihaad of both body and wealth.”

Hajj is the greatest jihaad. Aishah radi Allaahu anha asked the Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, “We find that jihaad is the best deed, shouldn’t we (women) do jihaad?”

The Prophet replied, “Rather the best jihaad is a Hajj Mabroor!”

Aishah later said, “I’ll never cease performing Hajj after I heard that from RasulAllah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam” (Agreed upon).

The du’a of the one in Hajj shall be accepted.

The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said: “The soldier in the path of Allah and the one who performs Hajj and the one who performs ‘Umra, all are the delegation of Allah! He called them and they answered.

And they asked Him, and He shall grant them (what they ask for)” (Authentic, narrated by Ibn Majah and Ibn Hibban)!

In the Islamic history books it is narrated that on the day of Arafat, a man from Turkmenistan stood on the plains of Arafat in Hajj. To his left all he could see was Muslims crying and praying to Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala. To his right all he could see was Muslims crying and praying to Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala.

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Because of his native tongue, he could not imitate the lengthy prayers of the others. At this realization, everything blurred in front of him. His face reddened, his eyes poured tears as he raised his hands, “O Allah! Grant me everything that they are asking for!

Grant me everything that they are asking for!” And Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala accepted his du’a.

There is not a single day that the sun has come up on that is more beloved to Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala than the Day of Arafat.

The Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam said: “There is no day on which Allah frees more of His slaves from fire than on the Day of Arafat, and He verily draws near, then boasts of them before the angles, saying, ‘What do they seek?’” (Sahih Muslim).

And in another hadith: “Verily Allah boasts of the people of Arafat before the people of Heaven (angels) saying, ‘Look to my servants who have come to Me disheveled and dusty.’”

Abdullah ibn Al-Mubaarak narrates, “I went to Sufyaan ibn al-Uyaynah as the Day of Arafat was setting. He sat on his knees, his hands raised to the Heavens, and tears moistened his cheeks and beard.

He turned and looked at me, so I asked him, ‘Amongst the people who have gathered here for Hajj, who is in the worst state?’

“Sufyaan ibn al-Uyaynah said, ‘He who thinks that Allah will not forgive him.’”

Aishah radi Allaahu anha would see the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam standing in prayer at night so much so that his feet would crack. She would ask him, “Why do you do this when Allaah has forgiven all your sins, the past, and anything you may do in the future?”

And he Sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam would reply, “Shouldn’t I be a thankful slave?”

With this example of the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam, what should our attitude be when we hear of Paradise and forgiveness of sins for those who perform Hajj?

Does it mean that after Hajj we fall back into all the disobedience that we went to Hajj with? Does it mean that we are promised Jannah no matter what sin we do after Hajj? Many people think this to be the case and it is a very dangerous presumption.

You will find in many of the hadith regarding the virtue of Hajj, the use of the term Hajj Mabroor. Do you know what mabroor means? It means an accepted Hajj. A Mabroor Hajj is one in which Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala is not disobeyed during or after it.

Others have said that a Hajj Mabroor is one that is accepted, and the sign of it’s acceptance is that a person will go back in a better state then when he came, and that he will discontinue the sins that were between him and Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala.

There are groups of Hajjis with all of their paraphernalia. Plastered on their t-shirts and hats was ‘Hajj Mabroor 1997!’Remember then when Ibn Umar was on his deathbed, his son reminded him of all the good deeds that he did with the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam and the companions. He told him, “Quiet!

Don’t you know whom Allah accepts from? Verily Allah only accepts from the muttaqoon (God-fearing).”

When Ali ibn Al-Husayn radi Allaahu anhu wore his ihram towels and sat upright on his camel in preparation for the journey to Makkah, his face changed colour, his skin shivered and he cried, unable to say the talbiyyah, labbayk Allahumma labbayk.

Someone asked him, “What’s wrong?”

And he replied, “I’m afraid that when I say it, it shall be replied, ‘Laa labbayka wa laa sa’dayk’ (Your coming [journey] is not accepted and there is no happiness for you).”

With that spirit, let us march forward in the search of the mercy of Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala and His forgiveness, to the first house of Allah subhaanahu wa ta’aala on Earth, to Hajj.

Arafah * 10 Years After Hijrah The man was standing with Rasul Allah * sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam * when he was thrown from his camel. The camel stomped and the man’s neck was snapped. Dead. “Bathe his body with water and Sidr and bury him with both garments,” said Allah’s Messenger. “Do not cover his head, nor touch him with Camphor ... for verily he will be returned (to Allah) on the day of resurrection in the state of Talbiyah! (Labbayk Allahaahumma labbayk)” Now - How To Get That Heart In Shape For Hajj?

Firstly: Attend lectures and workshops dealing with Hajj Hajj is one of the pillars that Islam is built on.

When someone intends to perform this rite it a must upon them that they learn it well. Rasul Allah * sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam * said, “Seeking knowledge is obligatory on every Muslim.” Imam Al-Bukhari writes in his Saheeh, ‘Chapter: knowledge comes before statements and actions.’ He then quoted the verse of Allah: [So Know, that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin.] Surah Muhammad, 47/19 Secondly: Establish Salah and Perform Qiyaam ulLayl When Rasul Allah * sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam * was preparing his heart for the mission of conveying this Deen, Allah ordered him to prepare using Qiyam ul-Layl. Allah ta’ala says: [O you who wraps himself / Arise (to pray) the night, except for a little] * Surah Muzzammil, 73/1,2 A student once slept over at Imam Ahmad’s house, rahimahullah. Imam Ahmad had left a vessel of water for him, and upon arriving at Fajr time, found the vessel still full of water. He was shocked and remarked, “How can a person be a Talib Al-’Ilm (student of Islam) and not stand for Qiyam ul-Layl!”

Some said to Ibn Mas`ood, may Allah be pleased with him, “We are unable to wake up to perform Qiyam ul-Layl.” He told them, “You are distancing yourselves from it by your sins.”

On behalf of The Islamic Society of Algester, The Imaams and the committee, we wish each and every Muslim a Joyous Eid- ul - Fitr Mubarak.

May the Grace of Allah be upon us all. AAMEEN

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 33

Health Beauty Wellbeing Lifestyle, stress leads to rising acidity in youngsters

By Azera Parveen Rahman NEW DELHI, August 1 (IANS) Did you know that your child's recurring throat infection could be because of acidity? For reasons that are lifestyle-related and, therefore, well within our control, occurrence of acidity among youngsters is rising steadily and should be addressed with a visit to the doctor if it hampers daily life to avoid its long-term implications.

A gastroenterologist at the Apollo Hospital, Ajay Kumar, attributes this rising trend among young children to their daily routine. "A school-going kid has an early breakfast, which he or she eats halfheartedly because of time constraints. After a long break it's tiffin time, but he or she hardly eats from the lunchbox, preferring to eat from the canteen instead," he explained.

"It's seen that a lot of mothers try to pack appetising food for their children, like fried cutlets, or even a packet of chips. At the end of the day, you have moved from a high- fibre diet to a high-calorie diet.

Obesity in kids therefore

is rising, as also are cases of acidity," Ajay Kumar told IANS. It's a similar story for professionals. Long gaps between meals, junk food, no physical exercise and odd working hours all add to giving one that burning sensation in the stomach.

"Stress also plays a big role in causing acidity. It accentuates the problem," Deepak Lahoti, head of the gastroenterology department at Max Hospital, Patparganj, told IANS. A job that always keeps you on the tenterhooks or a gnawing problem at home can, therefore, also lead to acidity.

What's more, smoking and alcohol, both of which are increasingly becoming an accepted norm in society, can cause an acid reflux.

According to Lahoti, the symptoms of acidity may not always be frequent burps and a burning sensation in the stomach. "In children, for instance, if there is a recurring throat infection, it could be because of acidity because the reflux can go high up to the tonsillar region. Complaints of

food being felt stuck in the chest region, or slight bleeding with vomiting can all be caused by acidity."

Taking antacids over the counter, doctors say, is all right, unless the problem starts hampering your daily life.

"Having acidity once in three-four weeks and then taking an antacid is Ok. But if it becomes a daily affair and starts hampering your routine, you should see a doctor," said gastroenterologist Rajni Mehta, who practises at a number of private hospitals in the national capital. "Adults who are on painkillers are vulnerable to frequent acidity problems."

"If you are in the 40-50 age bracket and develop fresh symptoms like loss of weight, loss of appetite, blood in vomit, black stools, fall in hamoglobin level - all of

IN 2008 the world’s leading experts on snake bite assembled in Melbourne.

They launched a Global Snake Bite Initiative with a view to raising the profile and developing practical solutions to prevent and treat snake bites.

Nothing great has been done to reduce snake bites. The lives of 4.5 million people are affected every year globally. It is estimated that 100, 000 people die from snake bite. 250,000 are permanently disabled.

One source says that out of the 2,700 different species of snakes, 375 are considered to be poisonous. Another source says that out of the 3,000 different species of snakes, only about 500 of these species are said to be poisonous.

Snakes are found in almost every country of the world except in New Zealand, Antarctica, Ireland, Iceland, and Greenland.

Most of the victims are from poor

nations. Dr Ken Winkel, Director of the University of Melbourne’s Australian Venom Research Unit and colleagues launched their model for a Global Snake Bite Initiative in Melbourne on 27th November, 2008.

According to Dr. Ken Winkle, Australia has had a long history in the treatment of stings and bites.

Australia uses several innovations including pressure bandage.

Australia also can learn from the way other countries manage snake bite.

Antivenom (or antivenin) has been available for over one hundred years. But many countries lack access to safe, effective antivenom supplies. It is expensive. It is outside the reach of many poor people.

It is a paradox that although the snake is the symbol of medicine globally, medicine appears to have forgotten about snake bite.

Snake bite does not take place in

Since in most cases acidity is lifestylerelated, the best way to avoid the problem is to take small, frequent meals, go for regular exercise, and avoid eating excess in one go, be it fried food, ice cream or candies. "And ultimately, try and observe what causes the problem for you, and avoid that," Lahoti added.

India to host conference on tobacco epidemic NEW DELHI, July 31 (IANS) Experts from across the world will come together in the national capital to discuss a way forward for a cohesive policy environment to promote public health by reducing current tobacco use prevalence.

The international conference organised by the

Antidote for snake bite

By Thilliar Varnakulasingham

which we call red flags - one should see the doctor and go for investigations," Ajay Kumar said.

A recurring acidity problem, despite acid suppressants, can lead to vitamin deficiency. "Also, as WHO has stated, frequent acid reflux can be carcinogenic. Which means, if it remains uncorrected, frequent acidity can lead to cancer of the esophageal pipe," Lahoti pointed out.

New Zealand because there are no snakes in New Zealand. It is a rare thing in Australia.

It is uncommon in the United States. But in many developing countries, snake bite is a major occupational hazard for rural people.

The future is very bleak for many of the survivors of snake bite.

Many species of snakes found in the tropics produce venoms. They cause extensive local tissue damage. Many victims suffer permanent disability.

You can take some preventive measures to reduce snake bites.

You must be careful when playing or hiking in wooded areas, near water or other wilderness areas.

You must wear boots and long pants when you go into wooded areas. You must watch where you

Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) on public health priorities in the 21st century will be held here Sep 10-12.

The global conference will host over 100 speakers from more than 30 countries, who will discuss global and country-wise targets to protect present and future gen-

step. Some poisonous snake bites occur when you accidentally step on near a snake. You must avoid tall grass and piles of leaves and wood. It may be a hiding place for snakes.

“Anyone who will be around snakes or other venomous animals needs to be extremely careful, because they are still dangerous. It is very important to know which snakes are harmful and which ones are not”, says Stephen Galli of Stanford University. Poisonous snakes have fangs. Non-poisonous snakes do have teeth but not fangs.

Signs and symptoms of snake bite are: initially very painful with swelling in the bitten area, nausea, sweating, diarrhea, drowsiness, pain in the chest and double vision.

Do not cut, suck or use ice on the bitten area. Do not allow the vic-

erations from the harms of tobacco use.

"The conference will identify tobacco as a major threat to public health in the 21st century and will strengthen the foundations for creating a tobacco-free generation of the future" said K. Srinath Reddy, president PHFI.

tim to move or walk. Lay the victim down. Do not elevate the bitten limb. Remove any tight clothing or jewellery in case the area swells.

Apply firm pressure-bandage over the bite site as soon as possible to slow the circulation.

Bandage upwards from the lower portion of the bitten limb as high as possible up the limb. The bandage should be as tight as you would apply to a sprained ankle.

Apply a splint such as rolled up newspaper to ensure the limb immobilized. Check for circulation below bandaged site.

The purpose of pressure/ immobilization is to retard the movement of venom from the bite site into the circulation. It is the buying time for the patient to reach medical care. Research has shown that very little venom reaches the blood stream if firm pressure is applied over the bitten area and the limb is immobilized. Be prepared for skills for life if the patient reacts badly to the bite.

References: MediTran Skills for Life First Aid Mannual Science Daily- November 27, 2008

Excessive cell phone use linked Goa to host Zambhala yoga, to cancer, genetic mutations music fest WASHINGTON, July 30 (IANS) Excessive use of mobile phone can lead to oxidative stress in cells that is linked to cellular and genetic mutations which cause development of tumours, says a study.

Oxidative stress is a process that damages all aspects of a human cell, including DNA, through the development of toxic peroxide and free radicals.

Dr. Yaniv Hamzany of Tel Aviv University's Sackler Faculty of Medicine and the Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Department at the Rabin Medical Center looked for clues in the saliva of cell phone users to further explore the relationship between cancer rates and cell phone use.

Since the cell phone is placed close to the

salivary gland when in use, he and his fellow researchers, including departmental colleagues Profs. Raphael Feinmesser and Thomas Shpitzer and Dr. Gideon Bahar and Prof. Rafi Nagler and Dr. Moshe Gavish of the Technion in Haifa, hypothesised that salivary content could reveal whether there was a connection to developing cancer, reports Science Daily.

Comparing heavy mobile phone users to non-users, they found that the saliva of heavy users showed indications of higher oxidative stress. More importantly, it is considered a major risk factor for cancer.

The findings have been reported in the journal Antioxidants and Redox Signaling.

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

PANAJI, August 1 (IANS) Melt away your stress in a Hatha yoga class or relax in a Nidra yoga class. The first edition of the Zambhala, a yoga, music and life spirit festival, is set to take the festive fever here notches higher in December.

The annual extravaganza, announced by Seventy Event Media Group, will bring together known yoga experts, spiritual teachers, practitioners and healers from India and across the world.

To be held Dec 21-22, the event will offer a curated mix of live entertainment, spirituality, music and dance.

"India is the spiritual home of yoga and the search for personal enlightenment and it's incredibly exciting to create the Zambhala Festival here. In a sense, we are building India's Glastonbury Festival - with yoga and spirituality at the heart of it," Martin Da'Costa, CEO, Seventy Event Media Group, said in a statement.

"Zambhala is an answer to the question

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that so many of us are asking - how to grow, strengthen, and build ourselves in this life," D'Costa added.

The line-up of international practitioners include some of the world’s best yoga teachers - Jehangir Palkhivala and Deepika Mehta from India, Eoin Finn from Canada, Janet Stonefrom California and Duncan Wong, who has previously taught Madonna, Bjork and Sting.

Visitors will be able to seek peace, solace and engage in a multitude of activities like choosing from five different kinds of yoga, Sufi whirling, Shamanism, learning and knowing mind, body and soul and crystal healing.

The two-day festival will also feature workshops on different mediation techniques, chanting, group channeling and astro-gazing. Visitors at Zambhala can participate in various group activities or oneon-one sessions with healers and practitioners.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing

Healthy recipes...

Lamb Curry

THIS healthy lamb curry recipe makes a hearty healthy meal and can be enjoyed with either naan bread or basmati rice.

Author: Hanifa Hanid Prep time: 30 mins Cook time: 1 hour Total time: 1 hour 30 mins Serves: 6

This mouth-watering healthy lamb curry has an aromatic combination of the most

fabulous ingredients.

Ingredients • 1kg boneless lamb or lamb chops • 2 large onions finely chopped • 3 tbsp sunflower oil • 3 tsp garam masala • 1 green chilli finely chopped • 2 tsp garlic and ginger paste (or fresh equivalent) • 1 tsp salt • ½ tsp coarse black pepper • 2 tsp cumin powder (jeera powder) • 2 tsp coriander powder (dhania powder)

• ½ tsp red chilli powder • 1 tsp turmeric (haldi) • 1 fresh tomato quartered • handful chopped coriander for garnish • 2 tbsp low fat natural yogurt • ⅔ tin of chopped or plum tomatoes liquidised Instructions 1. Heat the oil in a large pan 2. Add the chopped onion, salt, pepper and garlic and ginger paste and cook until onions slightly brown 3. Add all of the spices and and dry fry the

spices for a few minutes 4. Add the meat and keep stirring until meat has changed from pinkish colour to a light brown colour ie meat is sealed 5. Add the tomatoes and stir well for 5 minutes 6. Add the yogurt and cook on high for 5 minutes then add 1½ cups of water 7. Cover the pan and move pan to a low heat small flame and simmer for 30 mins 8. Open the lid, stir contents and leave again for 30 mins to simmer 9. If tender, add chopped coriander and cook for 2 minutes else cook for a further 15-20 minutes 10. Add a little coriander as garnish and serve with naan bread or basmati rice Source: healthyindianrecipes.co.uk

Quick ways to Most women do up face remove nail polish stains while driving

NEW YORK, August 1 (IANS) Freshly painted nails look pretty only on women’s hands and not on the couch or in the hair. When nails are wet, the paint gets easily transferred, but the stubborn nature of nail polish makes it hard to remove the stain.

Fret not, as there are ways to get rid of it.

Try products that are kept on your beauty shelf or kitchen to get nail polish out of just about anything, reports huffingtonpost.com. * If you're trying to get it out of fabrics, use a hairspray. * To remove it from your hair, apply coconut oil. * A leather couch will need more effort: Rub a mixture of alcohol, white vinegar and olive oil mix on the stain.

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LONDON, July 31 (IANS) Mornings can be hectic for women, and a new research reveals that most women end up applying makeup when they are behind the wheel.

The research, conducted by Debra Robson LDN clinic, shows that 43 percent of the respondents admitted that they apply makeup in their cars on the daily commute, even though they know it’s wrong.

As much as 42 percent use the car’s rearview mirror to adjust their makeup, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"We all know putting makeup on in the car is wrong, but nearly half of us do it,” said Robson.

"It's because most professional women do everything in a rush, particularly in the mornings when they are juggling a multitude of tasks,” she added.

Commuters mostly apply lip gloss, mascara, lipstick, bronzer and eyeliner.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 - 35

Health Beauty Wellbeing Anaemia boosts risk of dementia in elderly WASHINGTON, August 2 (IANS) Anaemia, or low levels of red blood cells, may increase the risk of dementia in elderly people, a US study has said.

"Anaemia is common in the elderly and occurs in up to 23 percent of adults aged 65 and older," Xinhua quoted study author Kristine Yaffe of the University of California San Francisco as saying.

"The condition has also been linked in studies to an increased risk of early death."

In the study, researchers examined 2,552 older adults between the ages of 70 and 79 for over 11 years.

Of those, 393 had anaemia at the start of the study. At the end of the study, 445, or about 18 percent of participants, developed dementia.

The study found that people who had anaemia at the start of the study had a nearly 41 percent higher risk of developing dementia than those who were not anaemic.

The link remained after considering other factors, such as age, race, sex and education, according to the study published in the US journal Neurology.

Of the 393 people with anaemia, 89 people (or 23 percent) developed dementia, compared to 366 of the 2,159 people (or 17 percent) who did not have anaemia, the study said.

"There are several explanations for why anaemia may be linked to dementia," Yaffe said.

"For example, anaemia may be a marker for poor health in general, or low oxygen levels resulting from anaemia may play a role in the connection. Reductions in oxygen to the brain have been shown to reduce memory and thinking abilities and may contribute to damage to neurons."

Trouble sleeping? Eat well

Sweating helps skin look better: Adriana Lima

STRESS is often seen as a culprit when you are unable to get a good night's sleep. But your diet also plays a role in it. Check your nutrient intake to sleep well.

The following vitamins and minerals are required to solve sleep problems, reports huffingtonpost.com. * Magnesium: It plays a role in the bodily function that regulates sleep. Insomnia is one of the symptoms of lack of magnesium. A 2006 analysis in the journal Medical Hypothesis suggests that magnesium deficiency might be cause of depression and mental health problems. Dark leafy vegetables, pumpkin seeds, sesame

MODEL Adriana Lima thinks sweating can do wonders for the skin.

The 32-year-old also believes that it's important to work out regularly for a healthy and fit body, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"Of course, for me it's important to work out. I believe that sweating helps your skin look better," said Lima.

"Also, I always carry spray water for my face in my bag and mascara. I always want to keep my lips moist, too,” she added.

IANS

Most men prefer women who dress respectfully IF you thought you could attract a man with a low neckline and short hemline, think again! A study reveals that a majority of men prefer women dressed in a respectable way.

British money saving website VoucherCodesPro.co.uk conducted the survey and found that 45 percent of male respondents were more likely to approach a woman who is dressed nicely, as opposed to just 31 percent of men who said they were more attracted to a woman wearing revealing clothes, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

The remaining said they didn’t care about a woman’s clothes as long as they were attracted to her.

Astrology Aries - March 21 - April 20 You shall try to be more caring and communicative at your the workplace, in order to secure the cooperation of your colleagues and bosses. You will leave no stone unturned to achieve all your career goals, feels Ganesha. Times are also favourable for students pursuing higher studies. In the personal sphere, you may be inclined towards charity work. There is going to be a positive change in your personality that shall enable you to win hearts. You may experience financial gains, but not as per your expectations. This is a favourable time for investing in property. In the personal sphere, there may be some ups and downs. Your married life may hit a roadblock; stay sorted. However, if you are in love, this is a good time to propose your beloved and woo your sweetheart. Later in the month, you are likely to expand the horizons of your knowledge by interacting with more people, and even through voracious reading. Steer clear of legal hassles! Your creativity will blossom.

Also, as the month draws to a close, your focus will shift to your domestic life and socialising. Be more patient while dealing with people and their varied problems.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22 This month, you shall tackle all your problems confidently. However, you need to be flexible in your approach, in order to not let problems arise in the first place itself. Being rigid and uncompromising in your attitude wouldn't help your cause, reminds Ganesha. On the work front, you will make good progress in your career, and shall impress your superiors with your sincerity towards work.

However, in the latter half of the month, you may become somewhat lethargic in your work, and consequently may lag behind in completing some projects.

On the domestic front, things may be somewhat unsettled, as you may be unable to save money. Being security-oriented, you may be concerned due to this trend.

You may also exhibit the negative traits of being overly possessive and selfish. As the month comes to an end, some of the ongoing domestic disputes may amplify. You are advised to take control of the situation, and make changes in your attitude to ease the situation. All in all, it would be best to stay positive and pliable, says Ganesha.

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21 As the month begins, you shall be inclined to meddle in the lives and activities of other people, rather than focusing on yourself. Try to avoid this tendency and stay focused on your own path and goals. You may be bored with the monotony of your own work, and to counter it, you may cultivate some hobby. However, you will not be able to sustain your interest in it for long. You may become easily irritated and sulky, adversely affecting your personal life. Travel is on the cards, for personal or professional purposes. At work, you may be quite expressive and vocal in airing your views, but in your domestic life, you will remain passive and quite. However, your bond with your spouse will get stronger. On the financial front, you will try to curb unnecessary expenditures. As the month draws to a close, your logical and

seeds and beans are some of the food items rich in magnesium. * Potassium: A 1991 study in the journal Sleep revealed that supplements may be helpful to those who have trouble sleeping through the night. Beans, leafy vegetables and baked potatoes are some of the sources. * Vitamin D: A 2012 study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found a strong correlation between excessive daytime sleepiness and vitamin D deficiency. The sun's rays are good for this vitamin. Some of the food sources include swordfish, salmon and tuna.

IANS

“Surprisingly, more men preferred to approach women who were wearing reserved and classy attire rather than a revealing outfit,” said George Charles of VoucherCodesPro.co.uk.

“As the results prove, it shows that men do notice women’s clothes, so perhaps keep this in mind when planning your next party outfit! Tailoring your look before going out and perhaps toning it down will make you feel more comfortable, which is the most important thing,” he added.

IANS

www.ganeshaspeaks.com analytical skills shall peak. You may take great pains in motivating others and help them succeed. Make all efforts necessary to channelize your energies in a positive direction, as being nosey about others isn't going to help you in any manner.

the tasks to others. However, you should not overwork yourself and try to achieve a healthy balance between work and relaxation. Avoid worries and be optimistic.

Cancer - June 22 - July 22 As the month starts, it is advisable for you to review the state of your finances, as you are wasting a lot of money lately. Spending on ungrateful souls, who are just taking advantage of your generosity is not leading you anywhere. Hence it is time to take stock. You may have too many expectations from your beloved, which may lead to a feeling of disappointment. Also, there is no need to be overanxious about your love life, let it take its own course.

You should be careful about handling your friendships with care, as there are chances of misunderstandings and heartburn. Also, many guests are likely to visit your home, and whether you like it or not, you will have to entertain them. On the work front, you will work hard to complete all your pending assignments.

However, you will have to pay equal attention on the domestic front, so you have to balance your time between both. Last week of the month may prove to be taxing for your health, so better take care of it.

The beginning of the month may be somewhat challenging. Emotions may reign! Good thing is that you shall try everything to brighten things up. You are advised to take the help of your loved ones to get things back on track. As the month progresses, things will start getting better. Career advancement, lucrative job offers, expansion in business or new tie ups - all are foreseen, and you should have reasons to be happy. On the work front, your performance will be excellent and you will impress everyone. In the realm of relationships, you may be a bit confused in your love life and feel that something is missing and it is lacking direction. However, you will enjoy a good relationship with your spouse and learn to forgive and forget. Your creativity will also blossom. Financial matters will be in focus as the month ends.

Libra - September 23 - October 22

Leo - July 23 - August 22 You may become conscious of your image, and shall go all out in order to impress people and attract as much attention as you can. You may also seek a friend who is on the same wavelength as yours and understands you well. Avoid unnecessary expenditures, as this may adversely impact your financial condition. Also, you may have to deal with certain domestic problems which require your delicate and patient handling. Especially if you are having differences with your parents, don't spoil your relationship with them by losing your temper. You may face a lack of family support due to which you will feel alone and isolated. As the month progresses, you feel that a certain transformation is taking shape within you and it has positive overtones. On the work front, if you are looking for a job change, then stars are not in your favour. So it is better that you adjust with the circumstances in your present job. All these situations may be a part of a larger cosmic picture, and you may be led in paying off your Karmic debts.

Virgo - August 23 - October 22 Domestic issues will demand your attention and dealing with them may leave you drained and exhausted. Due to this, you are likely to keep a low profile at home in order to maintain peace and tranquility in your life. Financial difficulties are also foreseen for you this month. Even though you seldom do things ad-hoc and adhere to a planned schedule, however, this month, things may be quite otherwise and all your best laid plans may get derailed. You should mould yourself to the uncertainties and be prepared tackle the situation as per its merits. Your social circle is likely to expand. On the work front, you are likely to excel and give your best. It will require both hard work and smart work, where you take on tasks that suit you as per your skill sets and delegate rest of

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 Your revengeful instinct may dominate this month, as you may be facing a disturbing situation at home. However, you are advised to desist from arguments or conflicts both at home and at work. You should learn to channel your anger in a positive way. Try to judge people in a objective manner without any bias. On the work front, you will be in a position of authority and delegate work to others.

Travelling may also be on the cards! You may also become impatient in implementing your well thought out plans to fulfill your goals and ambitions, however you should wait till the time the planets become more favourable for your cause. On the domestic front, you will do everything possible to resolve long standing disputes. Be careful! Also, try to bring some freshness in your personal life, which will benefit you a lot, otherwise you may be bored due to its monotonous nature.

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 22 As the month begins, be prepared to face challenges and adversities. In such troubled times, however, it is best to stay calm and composed to deal with the situation in a sensible manner, rather than losing your cool and spoiling your relations. You may find yourself at crossroads in your life, and may be forced to take a particular decision in life, which shall determine the path you take up in your life. To make a sensible choice and tread a path that is favourable for you, try to seek the guidance of elders. You also will be inclined towards spirituality, so you should try and find yourself a 'guru' or a spiritual master who will guide you in this journey of yours. On the work front, you will be able to accomplish all your goals, however, the effort it demands may leave you exhausted.

Also, instead of heaping self praise on yourself, try to be more humble in your approach and let your work speak for itself. You have to be careful about your health, and it is recommended that you opt for a medical check up, for prevention is always better than cure.

Capricorn - December 23 - January 30 This month, you shall try not to take any risk, and will be largely playing it safe. You are advised to vent out your pent up feelings to someone whom you trust, because keeping your feelings and emotions locked up in your heart can be extremely stressful. You may also realise that of late, you have not been paying enough attention to your personal life and family. Even though work will be demanding, you will have no choice but to spare some time for them. In order to make up for the lost time, you will be eager to please your loved ones, and this will lift your spirits. On the work front, businessmen will have a gala time, as they will find new work and opportunities. However, you should be choosy when it comes to new offers, and not commit, until you are sure to deliver on time. If in a job, you will have high expectations from yourself and others. Thus, in order to deliver high quality work, you will make lots of efforts, and shall also effectively delegate work.

Aquarius - January 21 - February 19 Work is your top priority this month. You will make a positive start right in the beginning of the month, handling everything with ease.

However, as the month progresses, you may experience increasing dissatisfaction from your work, as you may feel that the returns you get on your hard work are very less. You may also tend to blame your personal life for your professional problems. Beware, for you may end up getting caught into a vicious cycle, cautions Ganesha. As the month end approaches, you will become more positive on the work front and will be able to accomplish all your goals and tasks. Due to all this focus on your work, you may neglect your personal and family life. On the social front, you will try to impress everyone with the kind of image you project. For this purpose, in order to enhance your image, you may opt for a complete makeover, and spend quite a bit of money on it. You will also be inclined towards spirituality and mysticism this month.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20 Personal issues will dominate this month.

You will try your best to develop your public relations and networking skills. Consequently, you will spend more time in socialising and meeting new people. However, as the month progresses, your true colours will surface, as you start exposing your true observations about people and reveal the bitter truth to them. Even though it is good that you vent out your feelings, however, it shouldn't be done in such a manner that it hurts others and spoils your relations. Try to be more refined and diplomatic in your approach. It may be possible that you are facing problems on some entirely different front, but you are projecting your problems on something way different.

This may be because you have been hurt by someone close to you, and you are not able to grapple with this bitter feeling. Resorting to meditation and prayers can greatly help you in regaining your composure. This will have positive results on you, as you start afresh and become more optimistic and positive in your approach.

Disclaimer: This is only a guide and is not directed towards any particular individual and the writer shall not be responsible for anything to do with the article content.

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing How to get back into shape Eyebrow shaping post-pregnancy?

AFTER delivering a child, women not only fight against sleepless nights, but also body shape. To gain back a pre-pregnancy figure, use whatever time you have in hand for workouts, yoga and much more.

"The key is to do what you can in the time that you can, and do it more intense to make for the lack of time," eonline.com quoted celebrity trainer Andrea Orbeck as saying.

She is responsible for helping models Heidi Klum, Kimora Lee Simmons and Adriana Lima quickly getting back into shape.

Orbeck, who has created a Pregnancy Sculpt DVD, recommends starting with cardio exercises and making your child part of your workout.

You can push the stroller or strap the baby

on to your chest while you step out for a walk.

"As babies need so much sleep, it's a great time to get moving during nap time and make the most of your precious time to yourself," she advised.

Other workout ideas for new moms include sumo squats, alternative reverse lunges, reverse bridges and much more.

Orbeck suggests new moms to stick to food items that are clean, lean, green and rich in protein.

She also advises women to do yoga postpregnancy.

"I like to build strength in women after pregnancy. Yoga is great for toning, mental health, relaxation and more during stressful times," she said.

IANS

Tricks to turn high-street clothes to couture SPENDING a bomb on designer labels may not be a part of your budget every month. But you can always learn the tricks to transform high-street clothes to couture pieces.

Use the following tips to make your clothes look more expensive, reports huffingtonpost.com. * Accessorise: Wear a statement ring, necklace or ear-cuff to make any outfit stand out. * Shape up your shoes: Shoes tend to get worn out easily. Get the sole replaced and

make them shine. * Buy a good quality coat: A jacket is the first thing people see, so spend money on a good one. As all eyes will be on your coat, people will not even bother to know what’s underneath. * Get your clothes dry-cleaned: It will cost you some, but it will make your items last longer. * Buy black: Darker colours tend to look more expensive as imperfections are not prominent.

Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty - 04 123 500 13

HEY Girls, most beauty trends are easy to try: You can swipe on some hot pink lipstick and wipe it off if you hate it; you can manipulate your hair into a pin-straight style or beachy waves with the flick of a flat iron. But, when it comes to one of the hottest trends right now — thick eyebrows — you either have them or you don’t.

Back in the 90s, bushy brows were the enemy, and people tweezed them nearly naked. Splurging on a pair of tweezers more accurately shape brows thin. Sure, it looked great back then, but now many ladies are left with residual puny brows that simply refuse to grow back.

Now trend is changing that big, bold brows are the ultimate must-have. Most of the celebrities, Models and TV stars have them.

Since so many of us from the over-tweezed era needed help, an entirely new category of beauty products was born: eyebrow growth treatments. The options range from topical serums to supplements, but reviews have been mixed — and results largely depend on how much damage you’ve inflicted on your hair follicles over the years.

How can you make your brows grow?

Patience is required! Decide where your new eyebrow boundary is and ensure that you don’t touch beyond this. Only when you have full growth should you shape your brows. Castor Oil will help promote brow growth. Apply 2 to 3 times a day evenly and leave it on. (you can buy castor oil from chemist or Indian store) With most of

these treatments, the biggest problem is time — and patience — since it takes weeks of regular use to see a difference. So you have to be willing to commit.

How can you select the correct pencil?

How should you fill in brows?

The pencil should be one shade darker than your brows. Wax-based Eyebrow Pencils work the best. Stroke your brow pencil in the direction of your hair growth and use the smudge to blend in — this will even brows and fill in gaps. The Cinnamon Spice shade is a hot seller for blonde and sparse brows, and Indian Chocolate is perfect for darker brows.

Are big brows trendy right now?

Big brows are the current trend, but it is essential to have groomed brows. Brows are beautifully shaped, even and dark, they are also particularly long. Remember that your brows should always begin at the bridge of your nose and end at a diagonal from the end of your eye — and don’t ever shorten them! Eyebrow Gel is perfect for adding colour and keeping brows in place. While there are many brow products on the market, a professional thread is the best was to ensure symmetry and a clean finish. Enjoy your day.

Regards, Nimisha

Aspiring models get ready for Fresh Faces 2013 NEW DELHI, July 27 (IANS) If modelling entices you as a career option, here's your chance - register yourself for Fresh Faces 2013, an international model hunt that is being organised across 40 countries.

The event is organised by modelmanagement.com in collaboration with Percept Sports and Entertainment.

Interested candidates need to submit their

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

pictures before Aug 31. The entries will be shortlisted to 200 by an expert panel of judges.

The shortlisted candidates will have to audition, following which 24 promising candidates will be finalised.

The 24 finalists will then be taken to Mumbai and put through an extensive four-day training programme to prepare them for the grand finale in Mumbai Sep 27.

The modelling contest, which started in 2010, will cover places like Paris, Berlin, Vienna and Amsterdam and Barcelona.

“The increasing recognition of Indian fashion designers and styles is making India fashionable. The Indian look is grabbing eyeballs not just on ramps in the country but also in the fashion capitals of the world. Why should Indian models be left behind," Savio

Sequeira, CEO, Percept Sports and Entertainment, said in a statement.

"We are excited to kick off the chapter of the show as part of the worldwide model hunt contest. It’s a fantastic opportunity for all those aspiring to be on the cover of a leading fashion magazine or walk the ramps,” added Sequeira.

The demand for Indian models is expected to increase dramatically

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with the next few years, says Andreas von Estorff, Founder and CEO, modelmanagement.com.

“There is so much undiscovered talent in India and we believe that the demand for Indian models will increase dramatically within the next years, placing Indian supermodels right at the top with the Bollywood stars or cricket play• Fresh faces 2012 winner from Poland Magdalena. ers," he said.

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Real Estate News

Demand outweighing rental supply DEMAND for rental properties across most of Queensland continues to outweigh supply, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) data.

The REIQ June residential rental vacancy rate survey, released today, found that vacancy rates were more constricted in June than at the same period last year.

Across South East Queensland, vacancy rates remain under 3 per cent and in most cases are tightening even further. A vacancy rate of 3 per cent is generally considered to be the equilibrium point of supply and demand.

“With the exception of Brisbane which remains at 2.1 per cent – a level that is indicative of more demand than supply – vacancy rates are trending lower in all other major regions of the southeast,” REIQ CEO Anton Kardash said.

“In fact, our data shows that the Cairns, Bundaberg and Fraser Coast regions all recorded vacancy rates below 3 per cent

and rates which were lower than at the same point in 2012.

“While lower vacancy rates means competition for rental properties is greater, it is also attracting more investors, which is good news for our property market.”

REIQ analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics data (ABS) found that the estimated property investor activity in Queensland was up 14.9 per cent to 5,121 dwellings financed in May this year compared to May last year.

The numbers of investors were also up nearly 20 per cent compared to the month before with the numbers of dwellings financed above the 10-year monthly average of 4,887.

“When you also consider the underlying dollar value of loans to Queensland investors captured by the ABS, it clearly shows that investment activity is at its highest level since June 2009,” Mr Kardash said.

One year ago, the Gold Coast’s rental market was in oversupply territory at 4 per cent, but according to REIQ rental survey its vacancy rate in June had reduced to 2.6 per cent.

Likewise on the Sunshine Coast which has experienced a reduction in vacancy rate from 3.3 per cent in June last year to 2 per cent this year.

Following the floods in Bundaberg earlier this year, the vacancy rate in that region has returned to more normal levels in June as demand reduces.

At the other end of the spectrum, however, Queensland’s mining regions continue to be impacted by lower rental demand which is

influencing vacancy rates in these areas.

Gladstone and Mackay’s vacancy rates continue to show signs of oversupply at 4.6 per cent and 6.6 per cent respectively in June.

An interesting result in the June survey, however, was that Rockhampton and Townsville both recorded an increase in vacancy rates, possibly partially due to the downturn in the mining sector.

Rockhampton posted a vacancy rate of 3.4 per cent, up from 2.7 per cent, while Townsville recorded 4.5 per cent, up from 3.3 per cent in May. Together with Cairns, Toowoomba posted the lowest vacancy rate of any major region at 1.8 per cent.

REIA

Real estate careers CHANGING careers can be a daunting experience, and the REIQ assists newcomers to the real estate profession by providing a wealth of information.

Those considering a career in real estate can download the great new ebook ‘Real estate careers’ - designed to give an overview of the career options available, along with information on the training to make a new career possible!

Introduction to Real Estate sessions are also run regularly to assist those contemplating an exciting new career in real estate.

These short evening sessions are free, and provide attendees the opportunity to speak to real estate professionals, ask questions and find out more about this exciting profession. To make the transition to a new

career even easier, the REIQ Recruits service also assists REIQ students secure their first job in a real estate agency.

As Queensland’s most respected real estate training provider, the REIQ is committed to providing up-to-date and practical training, offering a wide range of training products including registration and licensing courses, traineeships and specialised courses.

Introduction to Real Estate sessions are run in the evening from 5.30pm to 7pm, and the next available sessions are: • Gold Coast – 20 August • Toowoomba – 4 September Email courses@reiq.com.au to reserve your place at the next Introduction to Real Estate session. More information can be found at www.reiq.com

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Real Estate News

Real eSTATE of Origin - ABS stats update

By Ryan Connors reiqblog.com

What’s old is new again

ueensland vs. New South Q Wales – it’s an age old football rivalry. And after Wati Holmwood had a huge crack at ruining a great match, Queensland emerged victorious recently. But how is each State currently performing in the game of real estate? Let’s find out in today’s Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) update.

According to the latest updates in Housing and Lending Finance data, both states fared quite well over the month of May, with underlying trends not too dissimilar from each other.

Non-First Home Buyer (FHB) activity was up 7.7 per cent to 9,188 dwellings financed in Queensland during May – the highest monthly total recorded for this segment since September 2009 and back to around the long-term average. Comparatively, results for New South Wales saw non-FHB activity increase by 12 per cent to 14,754 dwellings financed over May, marking the highest since May 2007. Both are welcome results on the back of a better than expected month of April.

FHB levels in Queensland rose by 7.7 per cent to 1,002 dwellings financed while activity in New South Wales increased 11.6 per cent to 1,165 dwellings financed. Both State Governments infamously implemented changes to their first home owners’ grants to comprise new builds only during mid-October of last year. Unsurprisingly, dwellings financed for the FHB segment have fallen 47.2 per cent in Queensland and 50.3 per cent in New South Wales when compared to May 2012. Also while activity in New South Wales has historically been

By Shannon Molloy reiqblog.com TRENDS in real estate can be just as hyped, fleeting and recyclable as those in music, fashion, food and hair. If you’re hoping to capitalise on an emotionally driven owner-occupier market, you best be ready to cater to their latest whims. erratic, FHB numbers in recent months have dropped to levels comparable to that of Queensland, despite the former notably having a larger population and property market.

Finally, investor activity surged ahead in both states during the month of May. The total amount loaned to Queensland investors for dwelling purchases for May was its highest recorded since June 2009, representing a 19.2 per cent increase in estimated investor dwellings to 10,757 financed. In New South Wales the total dollar amount loaned to investors for dwelling purchases was the highest ever recorded, representing a 16 per cent increase in estimated investor dwellings to 10,757 financed during May. So – I hear you ask – who won this matchup? Well to be honest, from looking at the results it’s clear that both states are winners (and yes I’m fully aware this is an absolute copout). Given how the real estate markets in both states have had their struggles since the advent of the Global Financial Crisis these results are quite encouraging, even if the FHB segment isn’t realising its full potential.

Hidden treasures in Brisbane

By Pam Bennett reiqblog.com They’re the aspirational suburbs across Queensland where many people perhaps one day hope to live.

Maybe they overlook the ocean or the river, or perhaps they are in the city or nestled in the rainforest. But wherever they are, they are the Queensland suburbs at the top of their game when it comes to median house prices.

However, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) data, just because prestige suburbs are home to high property prices, doesn’t necessarily mean you have to have a million dollars to buy a house there.

In fact, an analysis of the REIQ’s March quarter data-set has found hidden treasures in prestigious suburbs across Queensland.

In all major regions, over the past 12 months, there have been relatively affordable house sales in suburbs which are classified as some of the most desirable to live.

The most extreme examples over the past 12 months included two separate house sales in Hamilton in Brisbane – one for $6.5 million and the other for $405,000. The median house price for riverside Hamilton for the year ending March was $1.46 million.

And this sale was not just a one-off lucky find. Analysis of property listings currently on reiq.com found more than 20 houses listed for sale in Hamilton for prices less than half the median house price of this top-ofthe-range suburb. One of these listings is even located on two titles.

But it’s not just in Brisbane that astute buyers have been gaining a foothold in prestigious locations. Over the past 12 months,

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

“What the hell were they thinking?”

Like any rational person, that’s the phrase that comes to mind when I see a once-beautiful period home that at some stage in its life has been butchered beyond recognition.

A boxy, enclosed ‘sleep out’ that should still be a sprawling verandah. A hideously rendered Mediterranean-style façade that hides a beautiful, original wood slat.

Heritage cornices ripped out and replaced with a modern swoop. A sunken spa bath straight from the 1980s where an iron clawfoot bath once sat.

Each generation of renovators is guilty of a multitude of crimes against good taste. I’m sure they seemed like a good idea at the time, but now… well, they’re just painful reminders of the hangover from fashionable fads that faded.

Melbourne buyers’ agent Paul Osborne, founder of consultancy Secret Agent, believes another popular home trend is just about to come to an end and be replaced with – you guessed it – the thing it replaced.

Open plan was all the rage from the mid1990s on. Separated dining and living zones as well as formal spaces were combined to make one massive space that usually encompassed the living area, dining room and kitchen.

Even done well, I’ve always found this approach to home design tends to result in a sort of cavernous feel. Stand at one end of an open place space and yell, and you might feel as though you’re screaming down into the Grand Canyon. It almost resembles an IKEA warehouse without the shelves full of flat pack boxes.

While it hardly compares to some other architectural and design crimes from past decades, Osborne thinks open plan is on the way out. In simple terms, it’s a matter of evolving (or revolving) tastes and changing priorities.

In his experience, the buying market is slowly turning back to more formal, dedicated zones in the house – to an extent. It’s what he calls a “hybrid” of open.

“The new requirements of buyers still favour a largely open plan (style), along with a separate area to ‘get away’,” he on the Sunshine Coast, a home in Minyama sold for $6.75 million while another sold for just $360,000. The Minyama median house price over the year was $760,000.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the State in Cairns, a home sold for $935,000 in Clifton Beach while another lucky buyer picked up a house in the same suburb for $312,000.

And despite a median house price of $1.06 million, it seems owning your own slice of Gold Coast paradise is not as unachievable as some would think. One Surfers Paradise

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explains. “Separate rooms as opposed to one large volume also give better ability to control temperature and sound.”

It seems this mix of old and new appeals most to house-proud families who want multiple uses from their dwelling. They want somewhere to enjoy time with the family, spaces for the kids to do their own thing, a spot for entertaining friends and perhaps somewhere for mum and dad to find a moment of peace.

Too much openness in a property’s floor plan could increasingly turn off a number of homebuyers, Osborne believes. This move back towards a more separate style of living is about more than taste too, he says.

Higher utility costs are playing a part too, as is a desire for a more pleasant amenity.

That’s just the beginning.

“People seek sanctuary from noise in an inner city environment and have a thirst for private space. Plus, more people working from home are helping to drive this request.

“It appears that this trend will be with us for some time. Family homeowners concerned about resale should take this on board when considering a renovation.”

He points to a recent sale in Brunswick in inner city Melbourne as an example. The two-bedroom house hadn’t been renovated recently but had a floor plan that Osborne finds appeals to “emerging market requests”. As such, the property attracted a premium.

It sold for $840,000, which was well above the anticipated $600,000 to $650,000 sale price. That result represented one of the highest achieved in the area for similar properties north of Albert Street, he says. It needs work, but probably only a cosmetic renovation rather than major works to get the layout to resemble a state that a new breed of homebuyers prefer.

“Sometimes a price is paid for what isn’t available, as the buyers in this occasion would’ve discovered prior to the auction.

With a single-fronted structural renovation easily costing $400,000 and above, prospective buyers pushed hard to secure this property, moving past precedent sales by some margin.”

Whether you’re looking for a potential renovation project, undertaking works on your property with a view to sell or simply keen to meet the market whenever it’s time to offload an investment, it pays to think about how the current needs and wants of your pool of buyers will match up with their future desires.

Shannon Molloy is the deputy editor of Australian Property Investor magazine, www.apimagazine.com.au home sold in December last year for $454,000, a far cry from the top-shelf sale of The Corso which went for a staggering $6.35 million.

With the Queensland market turning a corner and likely to continue to do so once the Federal Election is finally behind us, many of these buyers – at the top and bottom of their respective markets – will no doubt look back on their decisions with a big smile and, even better, the potential for capital growth.

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WHATÊS ON! BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Australia - Sant parayan Spiritual Discourses on Upanishads - 7-12 August - You are invited along with your family and friends for an enlightening experience in the presence of Pujya Adarshijivan Swami, Pujya Jnanpurush Swami, Pujya Gnavardhan Swami and Pujya Adarshmuni Swami. For more information about BAPS activities in Brisbane please contact Dhirajlal Pala 07 3108 2636, Sureshbhai Patel 073299 2929, Kiran Patel 0433 889 926 or email info@apac.baps.org Northside Fun Fair - 9 to 17th August - Westfield - Cnr Anzac Ave & North Lakes Drive. FREE admission - Free Monster Trucks nightly at 8pm, family fun for all ages. To view full list of times visit facebook.com/ northsidefunfair.

Coupons available for rides.

Shiva School of Meditation & Yoga - Swamiji in Brisbane 2013 - 10-11 Aug - Learn to love yourself, then give your love to everyone. Mahamandaleshwar Swami Shankarananda (Swamiji) FREE Satsang Venue: Yoga on Parker, 23 Parker Street, Newmarket, Brisbane. Bookings are essential.

For more information / ticket prices / timings contact 03 9775 2568 or visit www.shivayoga.org Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc - Vedic Yaj - 11 & 25 August 10am - 11.30am at Finnish Hall, 62 Newhnam Rd, Mt Gravatt. 18 August 10am-11.30am at 17 Somerset Dr, Carseldine. For more information contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or visit www.aryasamajqueensland.com GOPIO QLD Presents India Day Fair - 11 August – 10.30 till Dusk at Roma Street Parklands Amphitheatre.

Federal Seat of Moreton Candidate’s Public Forum - 12 August – 7pm - 8.30pm at

AUG 13 / SEPT 13

Sunnybank RSL Sub Branch Hall, 19 Gager Street, Sunnybank. Come along and hear what they have to say and also answer your questions.

Confirmed (to-date) Graham Perret MP (ALP), Malcolm Cole (LNP), Elissa Jenkins (Greens) and Jeremy Davey (PUP). For further information contact the event organiser David Forde 0413 874 008 or email forde.david@hotmail.com Independence Day 2013 Bollywood / Bhangra / Desi Beats / Baila / Tamil / English / Fusion - 13 August – Doors open 9pm at Indooroopilly Hotel, 3 Station Road, Indooroopilly (EKKA holiday next day). For more information visit clubmasti.com.au or call/sms Praneel 0413 507 078 or Manan 0401 933 657 EIDFEST 2013 - 17 August – at Rocklea Showgrounds, gates open 10am. $5 entry for all.

Brisbane Malayalee Association Indian Independence Day along with BMA - Tug of War tournament - 17 August – at Wavell Heights Primary School, Minore St, Wavell Heights Qld 4012. Teams registration and Weighing 8.30am, Flag hoisting & Tournament 9.45am. For more information contact 0411 488 219 or 0422 886 722 - Sport Convenor.

Indian Senior Citizens Assn & Ekta Women’s Group Celebrating Seniors Week - 18 August - 2-5pm at Runcorn Heights State School Hall, 160 Nemies Road, Runcorn. The function includes cultural performances and dinner. Please contact President Bir Sahai 0411 739 045 or publicity officer, Mrs Prabha Mishra on 0434 714 933.

Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Vazhipaattu Mandram - Brisbane - Bajan - 18 August - 5-7pm at 1 Lalina Street, Middle Park Qld 4074.

For more information contact Sakthi Para 0438 778 483 or Sakthi Jayanthan 0402 907 064

44 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

Shree Laxminarayan Mandir Shree Krishna Janam Asthami 21 August to 28 August - 46 Daymar Street, Burbank Qld 4156.

Food sponsors at $500; Hawan sponsors at $101. For details please contact either Pt. Sanat Pandey on 0401 683 520, Rakesh Sharma 0411 289 202, Ashok Prasad 0419 334 418 or any HMA committee member. Jai Shree Krishna! Thank you for your continuous support to our local Temple. All welcome to “KRISHNA JANAMASTAMI!” Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Shree Krishna Janamastami - 22 to 28 August - By Dharam Guru Pt. R. H. Tripathi Ji. We invite everyone to please come and celebrate! All devotees are invited to please take part in Hawan. There will be no cost for performing Hawan. Food sponsor is only $300, please support. For food sponsor etc please call Dhiru 0406 213 153 or Bharat 0411 131 485. For secured online donation facility visit www.shreevishnumaya mandir.com.au Bhakti Brisbane - Shri Krishna Janmastami celebrations - 25 - 31 August - at Paloma Reception Centre (next to Altandi Station), 121 Mains Rd, Sunnybank (1st Floor) For more information please contact Prakash Raniga 3715 7570, Rajesh Gopal (a/h) 3427 7533, Sundar Gopal 0403 993 746 or email bhaktibrisbane2010@gmail.com Robertson State School Fete Fiesta - 25 August - 12pm 6.30pm Sri Krishna Janmastami Festival 2013 - 28 August - 5.30pm at the Bhakti Centre, Gold Coast. Suite 1C Trust House, 3070 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise Qld 4217 - For more information contact Yamalarjuna Das 0420 239 739 or Mohit Das 0433 499 309 Vaishnav Sangh of Qld in association with Sanskruti presents Janmashtami Celebrations in www.indiantimes.com.au

Brisbane on 31 August - 5pm8.30pm at Yeronga State High School, 159 Villa Street, Yeronga Qld 4104. Including Aarti and Mahaprasad. For further information, sponsorship and volunteering please contact Tapan Shah 0431 631 071, Kartik Shah 0411 738 123 or Himanshu Modi 0431 457 693.

Email tvsoqld@hotmail.com or visit www.vsq.com.au Fiji Senior Citizens Association Qld celebrating their 10th Anniversary Celebration - 31 August - at Macgregor State School, Sunnybank commencing 5.30pm. Supported by Multicultural group in Brisbane. For further information contact Surendra Prasad 0413 004 100, Secretary Raymond Saran 3290 0653 and Treasurer - Rajendra Pratap 0411 339 067 Eswaralaya Kalaikoodam Celebrates their 10th Year Anniversary - 31 August - An evening of Bharatha Natyam and Dance Drama. Indian Classical Dance - Dhasa Manoharam. Time 6pm - Tickets $10 each, to be prepurchased. For more information please contact Manga 0433 967 489, Thilaga 3823 4628 or Jumuna on 3273 3098.

The Tamil School presents the 28th Annual concert - 7 September - 6pm at Holland Park State High School, Bapaume Road, Holland Park. For more information contact Saravanan 0406 487 453 or Gnanavel 0403 919 429 GOPIO 2013 Biennial Convention & Women’s Conference - 8-9 November Venue is Sapphire Function Centre in Blacktown, Sydney. For more information contact Umesh Chandra, GOPIO International Coordinator (Oceania) on 0421 388 465 or email ceo@chantex.com.au Markets........

Every Sunday – Brisbane Community Market – Every Sunday from 7.30am-1pm at Moorooka State School, Beaudesert Road Moorooka.

Seminars - Public Talks / Courses / Retreats........

Migration Seminar - FREE -

Every Thursday - 4pm at NO BORDERS Migration Advocates, Level 4/20 Park Road, Milton Qld 4064 - 5 mins from City - 50mtrs from Milton Station. Do you qualify for a work visa or a permanent residence in Australia? Bring your CV, your qualifications and find out if you qualify and what’s the best option in your case. For registration Call 07 3876 4000...limited seats Vedanta Centre of Sydney, Brisbane Chapter & University of Qld is organising a seminar on ‘Positive living: A holistic approach’ - 6 September - 3pm to 5pm at University of Qld, Forgan Smith building, Room 01-E109.

Participants: Swamis Tyagananda, Swami Baneshananda, Swami Sarvapriyananda and others. For more information contact Dr Vikas Reddy 0450 165 166 or email vedantabrisbane@gmail.com www.whatgood.net.au Asian Pacific Institute & Multicall Community Centre Cert 3 Spoken and Written English 91423NSW - 12 August Course duration 5 weeks. For eligibility requirements and course fees please contact 3257 1868 or visit www.mccbrisbane.org / www.apinstitute.qld.edu Al-Mustapha Institute of Brisbane - Ilm-e-Deen Courses, part-time available. For more information visit www.almustaphainstitute.org Chinmaya Mission Australia – Family programs every Sunday morning at Holland Park State High School from 10am-11.45am.

Balahivar classes for children and teenagers and gita classes for adults are conducted under the guidance of spiritual teacher, Bramachari Gopal Chaitanya. Please visit www.chinmaya.com.au or email brisbane.info@chinmaya.com.au To see the full list of upcoming events visit www.indiantimes.com.au or to keep up-to-date weekly subscribe to our event notifications. Email admin@indiantimes.com.au to subscribe today!

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Vaishnav Sangh of Queensland in association with Sanskruti Presents

With the devine blessings of Vaishnavacharya Shree Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshi (Kadi-Ahmedabad) Vaishnav Sangh of Queensland would like to invite you and your family to celebrate the Annual Janmashtami celebrations at Yeronga State High School 159 Villa Street Yeronga QLD 4104

||Aum Bhur Bhuvah Swaha Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat||

The highlights of the program includes Quiz (KBC Format), Garba performance and Matki Phod for kids

Gayatri Pariwar (Brisbane, Australia) presents for the first time in Brisbane

Ashwamedh Gayatri Maha Yagna prayer for world peace and harmony

For further information, Sponsorship, and Volunteering Please contact any of the event organisers

(under the aegis of Shantikunj, Haridwar)

in the presence of Shraddeya Dr. Pranav Pandya and Shraddeya Shailbala Pandya, Head AWGP Dates (Easter weekend 2014)

Time 8.45am to 7.00pm

Friday April 18, 2014 Saturday April 19, 2014 Sunday April 20, 2014

Date:- Saturday 31st August 2013 Time: 5.00 - 8:30 pm including Aarti and Mahaprasad

Tapan Shah- 0431631071, Kartik Shah 0411738 123, Himanshu Modi 0431457693

Venue Mt. Gravatt Showgrounds 1644 Logan Road, Mt. Gravatt

Proudly Supported by:-

Program includes Cultural items Exhibition Interactive thought provoking seminars Yoga and meditation 201 Kund

Yagna

To participate in the 201 Kund Yagna or for further information contact Tirat Achal 0407 620 663 Ashok Kumar 0411 698 972 Salik Ram Sharma 3271 5407 Daya Sharma 0414 468 730

Pankaj Upadhyay 0466 643 544 Vijay Kumar Dipak Pathak 0413 612 746 Umesh Chandra Bramha Deo 0414 183 834 Rajan Kiri Hitesh Kumar 0412 102 785 Maya Ram Achal brisbaneaswamedh2014@gmail.com

0433 340 883 0421 388 465 0422 671 990 0402 292 555

Participation is free. Lunch (Mahaprasad) will be provided daily. Dinner will be provided Friday and Saturday.

“Creating a harmonius, benevolent society through the union of science and sprituality”

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 45

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 47

Bollywood & Entertainment Akshay Kumar to wow audiences with action sequel Once upon a time in Mumbaai Dobaara on Independence Day AKSHAY Kumar, Bollywood’s favourite action man. has been making waves globally since the announcement of his new Avatar in the sequel offering ‘Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai Dobaara’. Akshay, who plays a flamboyant gangster in the film, has been spotted trotting the globe for promotions of the film. First India, then Oman, followed by the UK and recently Akshay visited the United States of America, where he partook in a press conference with the film’s director Milan Luthria and shared his experiences about the film.

The film depicts the fervent gang wars of the 80’s era in Mumbai and Akshay has continued to move away from type to play a baddie in this film. Commenting on his villainous role, he said: ‘Bad is the New Good’ and commented: ‘I am not trying to glorify a bad lead character; it is just a character I am playing. Not many actors agree to play a negative role’.

Akshay last played a negative character in the film Ajnabee after which ‘Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Dobaara’ would be his second. The film is a ‘villain’s love story’ and Akshay feels very strongly about his role, as he believes not many bad characters take centre stage as important characters.

Akshay also said that the only difference in the sequel is the change of a few faces whilst the story picks up from where it left off.

However, despite the negative hue in his character, Akshay seems to be concentrating more on romance then his usual actionpacked stunts in the film. He has passed the stunt baton to Imran Khan, who performs a series of thrilling action sequences.

Akshay said: “He [Imran Khan] did all the stunts with me and jumped from rooftops,

and I was very impressed with him. I think he is the next action hero.’

Returning to form for this sequel, director Milan Luthria (The Dirty Picture) was all praise for Akshay Kumar, saying: “Akshay is a very happy guy, a wonderful happy person to work on and off the sets. Having a person like him with you gives you a lot of confidence. He kept the atmosphere very happy on the set. I also felt that the character played in the original instalment by Emraan Hashmi needed to be older, with a different kind of presence.”

Once Upon A Time in Mumbai Dobaara releases globally on 15th August 2013.

Acceptance for 'Bhaag...' rare: Rakeysh Mehra DIRECTOR Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra couldn't have been happier with the "rare" acceptance that his latest offering "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" has received from audiences of all age groups and strata.

"It's across the sections. From an 8-yearold to an 80-year-old... and in families, daughters and sons are taking their father (parents) and grandparents to see the film.

This is rare! This was definitely not planned," Mehra said at the launch of a mobile game based on the film.

The film is a biopic on the life of former athlete Milkha Singh, and the film's success was given "because of such an inspiring life of Milkha Singh", said Mehra, adding:

"That's a very special feeling."

"Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" is set to cross the Rs.100 crore mark, but Mehra says his priority lies in audience acceptance.

"When your work goes out to the masses and it's a commercial success, definitely it makes you feel very good and that means all your efforts are going out to more people," Mehra said.

"But more than just the commercial milestones, what is making us happy is the overwhelming response from people," he added.

The film has already become the third highest grosser of 2013. Actor Farhan Akhtar essays the role of former athlete Milkha Singh in the film.

IANS

'Chennai Express' family entertainer, it's for masses: SRK NEW DELHI, Aug 4 (IANS) His health doesn't permit him to take too much stress, but despite that Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is aggressively promoting his forthcoming film “Chennai Express” and says that the theme of the movie is such that the whole family can sit together and enjoy it.

Releasing Aug 9, director Rohit Shetty's “Chennai Express” brings together SRK and Deepika Padukone together on the big screen once again after the hit movie “Om Shanti Om“.

SRK has spent over two decades in filmdom and has been part of hits like "Deewana", "Darr", "Baazigar" and "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" and affirms that his films are meant for the masses.

"My films are for the masses, similarly 'Chennai Express' is for the masses and needed to be promoted extensively," SRk said while promoting his film here.

Shetty has been actively making films for the past 10 years and came out with hit "Golmaal" series, but "Chennai Express" is Shah Rukh's first film with the successful director.

He lauds Shetty's films for having variety.

"Rohit's films have a variety... comedy, drama, romance and action... everything.

'Chennai Express' is a comedy film with a love story, but it's definitely not like 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' or 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. It's a family entertainer. There's a little action too. It's something that whole family can sit down and watch together," he said.

Shah Rukh underwent shoulder surgery in May this year.

“I've always promoted my films extensively... this time it's less because I am not well,” said Shah Rukh, who looked stunning in a black suit.

“I have recently got a surgery done. But I strongly feel that every film requires right marketing and promotions,” he added.

After promoting the film off-shore, the 47-year-old reached New Delhi on August 4 along with Shetty and Deepika.

Different films need different marketing strategies.

“It (marketing) depends on the films that what kind of promotions it needs. We didn't promote 'My Name Is Khan' that much.

Yashji (Yash Chopra) expired before the release of 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan', but we promoted 'Ra One' extensively worldwide,” he added.

Yash Chopra died Oct 21 last year and his last directorial venture "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" released on Nov 13.

Anushka Shetty envious of Beauty of 'Madras Cafe' is its Arya's dedication casting: John Abraham ctor-producer John A Abraham, who is busy spreading a word about his forthcoming project "Madras Cafe", says the beauty of the movie lies in its cast.

Acting star Mohanlal was reportedly going to be associated with the project, but it didn't work out.

"Mohanlal is not in the film, unfortunately. We didn't have a strong enough character for a man of his stature to be in. But I can assure you that the beauty of 'Madras Cafe' is the casting. Even with 'Vicky Donor', we got so many new faces which people had not seen before but it clicked well," John told IANS. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, "Madras Cafe" also features Nargis Fakhri and Rashi

Khanna.

Describing the movie, John said: "I am sure people down south will appreciate what we have done. It's a story about an agent and the story is told from his point of view. We researched for it for six years and it has honest content. The 30-plus audience will relate to this film immediately."

The film releases Aug 23.

IANS

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

CHENNAI, Aug 4 (IANS) Anushka Shetty has teamed up with Tamil actor Arya for the first time in upcoming romantic-drama "Irandam Ulagam" and she is bowled over by his dedication and concentration.

"Arya is one actor I envy the most. I envy his dedication and wonder how can someone work with no hang ups and manage to do different kind of films. He is so relaxed off the set, but extremely committed on the sets," Anushka told reporters.

She was speaking at the audio launch of "Irandam Ulagam", helmed by Selvaraghavan.

The Anushka and Arya-starrer is touted to be a love story laced with fantasy.

This is also her first film with director Selvaraghavan.

On working with the director, Anushka said: "I'm glad I didn't get to work with him

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all these years because then I would've missed the opportunity to work in the film.

He is one of the few directors who teaches nuances of acting that makes one a great performer".

Produced by PVP Cinema, "Irandam Ulagam" is set to release soon. It has music

by Harris Jayaraj.

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Bollywood & Entertainment Pran: One of the most loved villains of Bollywood bids adieu Mumbai, July 13 (IANS) He was truly what legends are made of - a natural talent and a thorough professional with a versatility. Actor Pran left for his heavenly abode late in the evening on Friday 12th July. His death is deemed as a big loss for the Hindi film industry. He was 93.

Born as Pran Kishan Sikand, he was popular as Pran, and many, out of the respect the legend commanded, addressed him as “Pran sahab”.

Pran breathed his last at the Lilavati Hospital following prolonged illness, said his son.

Pran’s condition was frail since the past few months and he was in and out of hospital multiple times.

He was reportedly last admitted to the Lilavati Hospital just a week back.

“He passed away at Lilavati Hospital at around 8.30. p.m.,” his son Sunil told IANS. The last rites of the veteran actor, who was a recipient of the coveted Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Lifetime Achievement, were conducted Saturday at 12 p.m. at the Shivaji Park.

In a career of over six decades, Pran had an exhaustive and impressive filmography of over 400 movies. Each beats the other.

And so, megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who worked with Pran in over 10 films, including

“Zanjeer” and “Don”, tweeted: “Another magnificent pillar of the film industry falls.”

Pran may have been loved as the rough and tough man on screen, but in real life, he was “a gentleman, most collaborative colleague, a senior of immense distinction and a true disciplined professional,” wrote Big B. The actor was chosen for the 44th Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Lifetime Achievement, an honour which his family as well as colleagues from Bollywood felt came a little late in the day. He was also unwell to travel to Delhi to collect the award at the 60th National Film Awards ceremony.

Although he could not travel, the honour came to him when Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari visited him in Mumbai to confer the award.

The actor started his career as a photographer in 1940, but it was a chance meeting with a film producer that landed him his debut role in a film called “Yamla Jat”.

Later, when he moved from Lahore to Bombay (now Mumbai), with the help of renowned writer Saadat Hasan Manto and actor Shyam, Pran got a break in Bombay Talkies’ film “Ziddi”, in which Dev Anand played the lead role.

That set the momentum for the versatile talent, who brought new mannerisms and style and lent new dimensions to negative characters.

If he played villain convincingly in films like “Madhumati”, “Ziddi” and “Ram Aur Shyam”, with the same ease he slipped into character roles like the lovable Malang Chacha in “Upkar” or a loyal friend Sher Khan in “Zanjeer”.

Among his memorable movies are “Azaad”, “Madhumati”, “Devdas”, “Dil Diya Dard Liya”, “Ram Aur Shyam”, “Aadmi”, “Ziddi”, “Munimji”, “Amardeep”, “Jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai”, “Chori Chori”, and “Chhalia”.

Expressing his grief through Twitter, superstar Shah Rukh wrote: “Why do icons who shaped our lives and emotions have to go away? You will, sir, remain etched in our hearts. Allah bless your soul Pran sahib.”

My 'Gulaab Gang' character very powerful: Madhuri Dixit ACTRESS Madhuri Dixit plays a woman who forms a group of women vigilantes in "Gulaab Gang" and says it is a very powerful character.

She plays Rajjo, who brings together a group of women who dress in pink saris and fight against injustice in the Bundelkhand region.

"It's a very powerful character.

As an actress, I am fascinated by it," Madhuri said at the launch of a jewellery store.

"The message through the movie

is also very strong," she added.

She is happy to have shot action scenes for the film.

"There is action in the film which I have not done so far in any of the movies," she said.

Directed by debutant Soumik Sen and produced by Anubhav Sinha, "Gulaab Gang" also features Juhi Chawla, Mahie Gill and Tannishtha Chatterjee in key roles.

IANS

Salman most searched celeb on mobile ollywood's 'Dabangg' star B Salman Khan has emerged on top of a list of celebrities who are the most searched for on a mobile platform, reveals a new survey. He even beat his former girlfriend, actress Katrina Kaif in the race.

The finding is part of independent mobile video and media company Vuclip's second quarter 2013 Global Video Insights survey.

Salman, one of the Hindi film industry's most loved stars, pipped other top models, actresses, cricketers and singers with his style and charisma, read a statement.

Here are the top celebrities

searched for in India in the second quarter of this year: 1. Salman Khan 2. Katrina Kaif 3. Sachin Tendulkar 4. Ranbir Kapoor 5. Kim Kardashian 6. Anushka 7. Priyamani 8. Taylor Swift 9. Kajal Agarwal 10. Nithya Menen The information for the celebrity searches is a result of Vuclip's ability to collect anonymous information about what users are searching for, what country they are in, and what devices they’re using.

The aggregate of the data makes for a compelling snapshot of trends in the mobile world. IANS

Mumbai fine the way it is: B-town reacts to Shobhaa De's tweet REACTING to celebrity author Shobhaa De's tweet speaking of separate statehood for Mumbai, Bollywood filmmakers have said that they love their city as it is.

Veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, known for movies like "Arth" and "Saaransh", says "Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra and that is how it should stay".

"There is no reason for it to be carved out and made into a separate state. It should be connected

with the state and the rest of India.

As it is, Mumbaikars are inwardlooking and have a ghetto mentality. If you make them separate, then they will cut themselves out from from the rest of the country," Bhatt told IANS. Shobhaa De's comment on microblogging site Twitter irked sentiments of several people across the board. Her comment came post the decision after Telangana was carved out as a separate state from

Andhra Pradesh.

She had said: "Maharashtra and Mumbai??? Why not? Mumbai has always fancied itself as an independent entity, anyway. This game has countless possibilities."

"Delhi Belly" director Abhinay Deo says fragmentation will not bring about any good as there's no end to cities asking for separate state status.

"I don't understand how fragmenting a state further is going to

change it (the scene). India was fragmented and operated as separate states a long time back, and with their own judicial systems.

Then the country was united after that. Why must we fragment (now)? There will be no end like this," he added.

Director Milan Luthria, director of the forthcoming "Once Upon Ay Time In Mumbai Dobaara!", doesn't support the 'separate state' idea too.

"I am pretty okay with the way things are going on right now.

There is no real reason for any change. I love my city," he said.

Nevertheless, Bhatt feels it is not right to target anyone just for sharing their views on a social networking site.

"It is very heartbreaking to see that if someone expresses her personal opinion, she should be terrorised into silence like this," he said.

IANS

Astrologer Sundeep Kocchar turns Marathi film actor MUMBAI Aug 3 (IANS) Celebrity astrologer Sundeep Kocchar who has appeared in TV shows like "Bach Ke Rehna" and "Kismat Ke Sitare", is ready to get a taste of acting with his debut project, a Marathi film titled "Bhavishyachi Aishi Taishi".

"I'm very excited about this project.

When I was narrated this subject, I fell in love with it and I wanted to do it. I am still learning Marathi and I am playing a very prominent role in the film," Kocchar told IANS. "I have shot for a few portions, and the rest of the shooting will begin from Aug 18. The film is slated for November release," he added.

"Bhavishyachi Aishi Taishi" is the story about the belief and disbelief in astrology.

Ramesh Talware, who is producing the movie, says Sundeep carries forward his real life astrologer streak in reel as well.

"He has got a dynamic personality and since the script relates well with his real life, we thought he would be the right person for the role (of an astrologer)," said Talware.

The film will be directed by Shirish Rane.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013 — 49

Sports News Neymar assures great CA seeks clarification on relationship with Messi Khawaja dismissal MELBOURNE, August 2 (IANS) Cricket Australia (CA) chief executive officer James Sutherland has sought clarification from the International Cricket Council (ICC) on the dismissal of Usman Khawaja on Day 1 of the third Ashes Test against England in Manchester.

Left-handed batsman Khawaja was adjudged caught behind off spinner Graeme Swann for 1 in the first session at Old Trafford.

“CA has sought an explanation from the ICC on the dismissal of Usman Khawaja. In

our view, the on-field decision and referred decision using Decision Review System (DRS) were both incorrect. CA remains a strong supporter of DRS and believes it is important that cricket continues to improve and build confidence in DRS," said Sutherland.

“We understand and accept that from time to time mistakes can be made. However in this instance, on behalf of the player, the team and all cricket fans, we feel duty bound to seek further explanation as to how this decision was arrived at.”

Cash prizes for players, fans in CPL MADRID, Aug 2 (IANS) Barcelona's new star signing Neymar has said he enjoys a great relationship with fellow striker Leo Messi and insists that he expects the good relation to continue in their time together at the club.

One of the big questions that has arisen over Neymar's arrival at the Camp Nou Stadium is how he will get on with Messi, who is without question the 'top dog' at Barcelona, while Neymar is the 'New Kid on the Block,' who could threaten Messi's position as the best player in the world, reports Xinhua.

"I have a marvellous relationship with Messi," said Neymar in a press conference ahead of the Joan Gamper Tournament game against his former club Santos.

"I speak to him every day and I can assure you there is no problem. Messi is the best player in the world and I am here to learn from him," said Neymar, who appears to have had few problems in adapting to his new club.

"I speak to Dani Alves, Adriano, Jonathan dos Santos, Messi, Pinto... I speak to all of them and Xavi Hernandez as well," he added, excited at his arrival at the Spanish league champions.

"It is a special club and I am getting to know everyone and I have to say the squad is what has most surprised me. It is much better than I thought and the way Barca play is the nicest in the world. I will try to adapt to this football quickly," he insisted.

"A dream that I had since I was a child has come true. I turn my head and I see Messi and Xavi, it really is a dream and all I can say is that I am very happy," he continued.

Neymar is carrying out a special training plan in order to help him gain weight which will help him shrug off the attention of defenders better, although they said he was used to tough challenges.

"It's worse in Brazil than here, but I am used to it, it is part of the game," he insisted.

PLAYERS hitting a six that travels the longest distance and the most creatively outrageous fan will receive special cash incentives during matches of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Organisers of the tournament say the two competitions are geared at enhancing the match experience of both the players and the fans, reports CMC. The player winning the Super Six award will get $500 while $100 dollars will be presented to the Cool Fan who shows support for team and Limacol brand, the sponsors of the tournament.

The best Cool Fan, one for each of the 19 game days, will be identified during the match and the prize will be awarded at the conclusion of each game.

Limacol Marketing Manager Trevor Bassoo hopes the Cool Fan prize will "encourage the continuity of the love West Indian cricket fans have for demonstrating

their support for their teams."

The Super Six award was given to Barbados Tridents captain Kieron Pollard in the first match of the tournament against St. Lucia Zouks while James Franklin of the Guyana Amazon Warriors took the prize in the second match against Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel.

“Scoring sixes is cool. The fans love it and we at Limacol are always looking for exciting ways to promote activities that the fans enjoy,” Bassoo said.

IANS

Ecuador pays tribute to late striker Benitez QUITO (Ecuador), Aug 2 (IANS) The Ecuadorian Football Federation (EFF) has paid tribute to the late forward Christian "Chucho" Benitez by retiring his No.11 jersey number from the national team's uniform. Chucho died suddenly Monday at the age

of 27.

"The coaching team (and) the federation decided to retire Chucho Benitez's number 11 jersey during these qualification matches (for the 2014 Brazil World Cup)," said EFF president Luis Chiriboga, reports Xinhua.

"He will be present in each of the players, but the '11' will be set aside in memory of Christian Benitez," Chiriboga added.

Benitez, 27, was one of the top players in the history of Ecuadorian football, scoring 24 goals for the national team.

Roberto Carlos Turkish athletslams Brazil ics body chief football chiefs resigns after doping scandal RIO de Janeiro, Aug 2 (IANS) Former Brazil and Real Madrid defender Roberto Carlos has accused football officials in his home country of failing to pay tribute to retiring idols.

Carlos quit playing in 2012 after a decorated 21-year career that included a World Cup triumph in 2002 and three UEFA Champions League titles, reports Xinhua.

But he said he was among a host of players whose careers had not been sufficiently recognised by Brazil's football confederation (CBF).

"They didn't do anything for Zico so why would they for me," Carlos asked.

"The CBF hasn't given a decent farewell to many players who have created history by wearing the national team's shirt."

"I'm not just talking about me, but about Rivaldo and others. A simple tribute would mean a lot. It could be a game or a ceremony. The CBF doesn't even think about it."

A CBF spokesperson was not available for comment.

Carlos, 40, was appointed coach of Turkish outfit Sivasspor in June.

ANKARA, Aug 2 (IANS) Turkish Athletics Federation (TAF) chairman Mehmet Terzi has quit following a series of damaging doping scandals that have hit the sport.

"Thanks to the board members for the support they have showed to me, but I thought it would be right that I step down," Terzi said in a statement released on the TAF website, reports Xinhua.

A former gold medal-winning marathon runner, Terzi has been leading the TAF since December 2004. During his nine-year spell, Turkish athletics have enjoyed unprecedented highs, as well as devastating lows.

Recently, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) suspended nine Turkish track and field athletes due to doping charges. Since the start of the year, at least 19 Turkish athletes have tested positive for banned substances.

"Unfortunately, it is a fact that so many anti-doping crimes were committed outside my and technical staff's control," Terzi said, highlighting that the number of positive tests was only 12 last year.

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

"Chucho" played for the Ecuadorian club El Nacional and Mexico's Santos Laguna and America teams, where he spent most of his career.

He also played for England's Birmingham City and most recently for the Qatari club Al-

Jaish, with whom he played for the first time only last Sunday, a day before his unexpected death.

Benitez had just been transferred to the Qatari team from America, the Mexican team which he helped to win national champion last season.

Campbell wins 100m women's freestyle

Indian Grand Prix tickets go on sale

BARCELONA, Aug 3 (IANS) Cate Campbell gave Australia their third gold when she swam to victory in the women's 100 metre freestyle in the World Swimming Championships.

Campbell swam home ahead of Sweden's Sarah Sjostrom, who took silver, while Olympic silver medallist Ranomi Kromowidjojo was third, reports Xinhua.

Meanwhile, Missy Franklin's quest for a clean sweep of seven golds came to an end as she could only finish fourth.

Campbell led from the start of the race and had a clear lead at the turn before powering home to finish in 52.24, ahead of Sjostrom's 52.84.

"I can't believe its just happened. This has never happened to me and I am so relieved," said Campbell.

GREATER Noida, Aug 3 (IANS) The tickets for the Formula 1 Indian Grand Prix to be held Oct 25-27 at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) have gone on sale.

Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI), organisers of the race, have launched the tickets simultaneously with the season tickets.

A three-day ticket for natural and picnic stand has been priced at Rs.2,000 whereas a main grand stand (MGS) ticket for the race weekend will cost Rs.15,000 (Upper tier). A Sunday ticket for MGS upper tier can be purchased for Rs.10,000.

JPSI chief executive Sameer Gaur said: “Formula 1 lovers now have every reason to cheer as single day race tickets have been launched together with the season tickets in order to draw more number of spectators for race day. With one of the cheapest tickets available on the F1 calendar, we hope to put up another memorable racing weekend at BIC in October.”

The tickets can be bought online at www.bookmyshow.com and also from Mercedes-Benz dealership in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune and Chandigarh.

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52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, August, 2013

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