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Volume 14, Number 4 Saturday, January 14, 2017

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Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2017 draws largest crowds ever

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the gathering at the 14th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) . Report page 6.

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From the Publisher MAY I begin by wishing everyone a very happy 2017, as we welcome 2017, we need to reflect on 2016, the year that was, for me personally 2016 was an eventful year. On the professional front as well as my community front, I tried my level best to fulfil my obligations to the best of my ability.

First of all, thanks to everyone for your kind comments, well wishes and feedback of my recent health scare, as I said that by sharing that with everyone, even if it helps save a single live it will be worthwhile, so please recognise the symptoms and act in a timely manner, someone’s life depends on it.

Despite my health scare, I refused to be bed bound, I opted to be active, obviously within reason, I also decided not to cancel my overseas trip, I sought medical advice, and according to the advice I broke the trip into manageable segments, this meant that the trip would take a little bit longer. The advice was to break the trip into segments with rest periods rather than long haul flights, special socks which support blood circulation were prescribed. The risk is always there, but as the saying goes, life and the show must go on.

Well back in India, some interesting facts, these days we fit right into the crowd, as now everyone dresses up as we do in Australia, before we stood out from the crowd and we would often be treated such. Now we got to Delhi expecting long lines at ATMs and reduced commercial activities, well if you thought the same, think again, we did not see any such activities. We went for lunch in a mall and the number of people there was amazing, to get a table in some of the food outlets there was a wait of over an hour.

Now inside this mall most of the food outlets are Western influenced and is the in thing for the locals to be seen at; regardless of the high prices. I must say that the prices are very high, but it does not deter the designer clothed locals from these restaurants.

Gone are the days of “Chole Bhatura” now if you are not eating; Pasta, Burger or Pizza you are not up there, this is the changing face of

India; all major Western fashion outlets are there and all doing very well. Every business seems to be doing well, it’s the sheer numbers.

On our drive from Delhi to Rajasthan and back we noticed that all the villages and little towns that we passed though seemed to be doing flourishing business as usual, our people are quite adaptable and quickly adapted to the new system.

I did withdraw cash at an ATM and there was no line up there, we could withdraw cash without any problem, the only thing is that you can withdraw limited amount at a time, you can however make multiple withdrawals, bit annoying but at least you can get the cash. ATMs mainly dispense the new two thousand Rupee notes. This is the only little problem as many smaller shops do not have change and they do not accept card payments. The move is for a cashless society, and it will take time.

After our annual function in memory of my Dadaji in our ancestral town Khetri in Rajasthan we headed to Bengaluru for GOPIO International convention and PBD. We found similar situation to Delhi in Bengaluru, though I must say that Bengaluru seemed to be much cleaner, maybe PBD had something to do with it. We will bring the full report on GOPIO International convention and PBD in the next issue. There has been little report in newspapers on PBD as I write this note, limited posters have been put up in the city, the venue is way out of the city and transport will be a major challenge here.

In 2017 we will be focusing on implementing some enhancements to both Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio. We plan to maximise our reach and maintain our strong community outreach. Your suggestions and feedback are welcomed as usual.

I will pen off now by wishing each and every one of you a very prosperous and happy New Year, looking forward to working with you all in 2017.

Until next Month, Happy reading Umesh Chandra

BIT FEBRUARY 2017 DEADLINE 28 January 2017 Email: sales@indiantimes.com.au.

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Inside • Letters to the Editor........................2 • Migration Matters............................4 • Local News..................................5-23

Indian Times Brisbane

Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: Sugandh Chaturvedi sales@indiantimes.com.au EDITOR:

Trudi Tarres

• Who, What, Where, When...24 & 26 • Health & Well Being................32-33 • Real Estate................................34-35 • Business Directory/Classified.......36-37 • Astrology...........................................38 • What’s On................................39-41 • Bollywood & Entertainment...42-45 • Sport............................................46-47 2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS Ram Jattan (UK) Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) ML. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi Imam Muhammad Aslam Sundar Gopal Das Yadavendra Das Pastor Joseph Dass

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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, January, 2017 — 3

Migration Updates....

Australian Immigration – Changes to Member of Family Units

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4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

WITH effect from 19th November 2016, the definition of Member of the Family Unit (MoFU) has been changed and limited to direct family members under 23 years of age (and dependent children with a medically accepted disability).

This change will mainly impact the secondary visa applicants for certain permanent visas or some provisional and temporary visa subclasses. This change is in line with Regulation 1.12, of the Migration Regulations 1994 The application of this new definition of MoFU is not changing to the types of visas it applies, apart from Subclass 988 which is also called the Maritime Crew Visa.

So how does a person become a member of Family Unit of Another Person? People who are covered under the concept of MoFU are as follows:- Person is a spouse or de facto partner of the family head or - Person is a o child or step child of the family head or o child or step child of the of the spouse of the family head or o child or step child of the de facto partner of the family head and Person is not a child or step child who is engaged to be married or has a spouse or de facto partner) and: Person has not turned 18 or Person has turned 18, but has not turned 23, and • Person is dependent on the family head or on the spouse or de facto partner of the family head or • Person has turned 23 and is under paragraph 1.05A (1)(b) dependent on the family head or on the

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spouse or de facto partner of the family head or • Person is a dependent child of person classified above.

As explained above the Maritime Crew visa (MCV or subclass 988) will be amended to apply the definition of MoFU in place of the current provisions limiting secondary applicants to a MCV applicant or holder’s spouse, de facto partner or dependent children.

The changes make the family members who can be included in a visa application, as a MoFU, more consistent with arrangements available to Australian citizens and permanent residents seeking to bring family members to Australia. The amendments also simplify the MoFU definition.

Where Can I Get More Information If you would like more information regarding visa eligibility, applicable visa subclass, or next steps, Migration Guru can assist you in navigating this process. Migration Guru has assisted a vast number of clients, in various and complex circumstances, including arranged marriages and de facto applicants.

Migration Guru has more than 50 years of collective experience in the industry and a team of Client Liaisons, and Migration Agents/Solicitors. With our vast experience and skills, we will be able to provide accurate migration or legal advice based on our clients’ personal circumstances.

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Disclaimer:- The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues, and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual.

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Char-Grilled Chicken THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 5

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2017 draws largest crowds ever From page 1 WITH a record participation since its inception, the 14th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas got off the ground on Saturday 7 January amid deliberations on several issues concerning the Indian diaspora across the globe.

The stage was set for the three-day event by the Surinamese Vice-President, 36-year-old Michael Ashwin Adhin, who sought India to be a big player on the global platform while also seeking technology know-how from India for the development of his country that received Indian indentured labour between 1873 and 1916.

‘Unprecedented numbers’ The number of delegates that has now crossed 7,100 has been “unprecedented” since the inception of the event in 2003 to provide a platform for engagement between

the diaspora and the government, said Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dnyaneshwar Mulay, and added that they were still receiving requests from delegates for registration.

“It is also unprecedented to have about 1,700 overseas participants and about 300 to 500 NRIs living in India, participating,” he added.

While concerns were raised on not having separate session to address grievances of those residing in Gulf countries, Mr. Mulay clarified that all the issues pertaining to those living abroad were being addressed.

As many as seven Indian ambassadors to different countries were here to interact with the diaspora, he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the gathering on Sunday 8 January.

Source: The Hindu Full report will be in February 2017 issue.

Nav Varsh Ki Subhkamnaye

by Dharam Guru Param Pujya Pundit Tripathi Ji

New Year, new you with Council's Active and Healthy Program KICK start your New Year’s resolution and refresh your exercise routine with Brisbane City Council’s 2017 Active and Healthy Program.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said Council's Active and Healthy Program offered activities for all ages and fitness levels at hundreds of local parks across Brisbane.

“With the start of a new year, this is an opportunity for Brisbane residents to take advantage of Council’s free or low-cost activities to improve their health, fitness and well-being,” Cr Quirk said.

“Council is dedicated to creating an active, healthy city that delivers a range of programs to help encourage the community to make healthy lifestyle choices and improve their general health and fitness.

“The program offers a series of group classes suitable for everyone, from beginners to those with higher fitness abilities with classes including tai chi, pilates, stand-up paddle boarding, skate skills clinics, indoor rock climbing and abseiling, boxing and mums and bubs fitness.

Each year Council offers more than 12,000 free or low-cost activities to more than 100,000 residents.

Council’s Active and Healthy Programs include: • Chill-out for young people aged between 10 to 17 years to participate in during school holidays • Heart Foundation Walking which offers

free walking groups throughout Brisbane • Growing Older and Living Dangerously (GOLD) for residents aged 50 years and over • GOLD ‘n’ Kids for residents aged 50 years and over and kids aged 4 years and over to enjoy activities together • Active Parks for residents of all ages to participate in a variety of activities while enjoying Council’s great open spaces.

“Leading a healthy lifestyle doesn't have to be costly – Council’s Active and Healthy initiatives are free or low-cost and all about changing your lifestyle through regular exercise,” Cr Quirk said.

“Residents can also easily complement their activities with outdoor workouts at more than 100 parks across Brisbane with fitness equipment.”

For more information about the Active and Healthy program visit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/activeandhealthy or phone (07) 3403 8888.

2nd Round – Celebrating Multicultural Qld Grants EACH and every year, one receives a gift of something new and a repeat of something old. It is my belief that the Year 2017 will be up and down as usual. The thinking of the world changes every second. It is the creation of GOD who changes every moment into something new and this is what we refer to as “change is the law of nature”.

Someone may think – What is Life?

Life is a very pretty, precious and wonderful gift of lord, you cannot just sit down and let it laps around you. You must plunge into it and you must dive through it.

Life kisses us on both the cheeks, day and morn but laughs at our deeds, eve and dawn.

The universal law is important. It will give you anything you seriously believe in. It will provide you with thorns or roses depending on the energy you put in. Finally, you are the

one in charge and you must accept that and stand alone.

If you think that God will come down and fix things for you, then let me tell you, you will keep waiting! God is out playing Golf.

First understand yourself and then try to understand others.

God Bless You All. Yeh Varsh Mangalmay Ho. Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinam.

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Duncan Pegg MP Member for Stretton APPLICATIONS for the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland grants program are now open and I encourage all local community organisations to apply. These grants, of up to $25,000, are available to local community groups and other organisations for projects that contribute to Queensland’s great multicultural success story. There is a total of $300 000 in project funding up for grabs.

Since being elected as the Member for Stretton, I have had the pleasure of meeting many

local multicultural leaders from many different groups. I know the great work that these organisations do in our local area. That is why I am keen to see local groups get funding for their cultural and social projects that celebrate and promote Queensland multiculturalism.

Applications close on 3rd February 2017, with the grants to be delivered from July 2017.

For more information or to apply for a grant please contact my office or visit: www.communities.qld.gov.au/multicultural

BACK TO SCHOOL – To learn HINDI

By Sarat Maharaj HINDUSTANI Language and Culture School enters into its 25thh year of service in Brisbane. Yes, it is a proud moment for everyone associated with supporting to maintain our identity and heritage in Australia.

In the past recent years, many young parents have come into Queensland, and are settling down slowly. As part of the Access & Equity program for Health, Mainstream Education, Transport, etc, it is important to look at other needs of your children who will be growing in the Australian environment.

In the past 24 years, our school has seen many parents take full advantage of learning our mother tongue Hindi. For the convenience of parents and stu-

dents, we have established two centres at Calamvale Community College, 11 Hamish St, Calamvale on South side, and Boondall State School, Roscommon Rd, Boondall on the North side.

In 2017, classes will commence on Saturday 28 January.

Enrolments have already begun.

All lessons are conducted under an approved curriculum by Education Queensland. Students wishing to take a language as a subject in mainstream school, can use Hindi as their language subject credit, if they have completed 80% attendance at Hindustani Language and Culture School. This is a fantastic arrangement.

For more information, please email: hindischool_qld@outlook.com. • Students gathering for end of year events. Parents, teachers, coordinators, and students look forward to this day every year.

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 7

Happy New Year and best wishes from APSQ

By Jitendra Deo President APSQ NAMASTE to all readers of Brisbane Indian Times. Happy New Year to all, and may you all have a blessed 2017.

I hope most of you have made some resolution for 2017, and please consider getting closer to reality of life, in terms of spirituality. Vedic verses state that people should know God, realisation of God should be the goal in life. Lack of knowledge and in some cases ignorance, mankind regard bodily pleasures, acquisition of wealth, worldly love, being the goal, but there is much more to be achieved from this life as Humans for our progression to next life, and strive for Moksha.

Arya Pacific Mahasammelan was held from 16 to 18 December 2016 at Vedic Centre in Auckland. APSQ was represented very well

at the Mahasammelan and members presented papers, bhajans, and speeches. This inaugural Mahasammelan drew a wide section of Arya Samaj communities from Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. People travelled all parts of these countries to be part of this wonderful congregation.

The three-day program was full of teachings from Vedas, Bhajans, presentations, drama, question answer sessions and of course sumptuous morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The program concluded with presentation of certificates, gifts from the hosts Arya Pacific Federation New Zealand Chapter by the chief guest Dr Ajit Singh, Auckland District Court Judge.

I wholeheartedly thank the host Arya Pacific Federation New Zealand chapter for their wonderful organisation and warm hospital• Part of Delegation at Mahasammellan. • Main photo: Leaders at Mahasammellan. ity.

India-Australia Society Inc. (IAS): 39th AGM

Courtesy Prasad Yarlagadda

I’M FIRING UP MY BACKYARD PIZZA OVEN ON AUSTRALIA DAY WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY. Poh Café Owner & Celebrity Cook

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

CELEBRATE #AUSTRALIADAY

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THE India-Australia Society Inc. (IAS) is one of the oldest community organisations in Brisbane. It was established in 1977 by a number of like-minded people to serve the common needs wider Indian and Australian Communities. The IAS Inc. had its 39th Annual General Meeting on 10th December 2016 at Toowong Community Hall, Toowong. The AGM was attended by number of its members and also attended by other community leaders such as Prof. Prasad Yarlagadda, FICQ Patron and Mr. Palani Thevar, President of FICQ. After conclusion of first part of AGM with reports from Past President and Treasurer, Mr Tausif Khan thanked his committee and announced dispossession of the current executive committee and stepped down as president. The members of AGM have nominated Mr. Palani Thevar to be Returning officer to elect new office bearers of The India-Australia Society Inc. All the positions of the society were elected anonymously without need for election for any particular position. Ms. Ragamayi Yarlagadda was elected as President for 2017. Her executive committee includes, Mr. Raju Tippana as Secretary, Mrs. Vimala Menon as Treasurer, Mr. Ramanathan Karuppiah and Mr. Hafeez Ali Khan as Vice President 1 and Vice President 2, Mr. Krishan Nangia as Joint Secre-

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tary, Mr. Ali Taji as Joint Treasurer. In addition these 7 executive team, there are 4 additional committee members also elected namely; Mr. Tausif Khan, Ms. Irene Singh, Ms. Ghazal Basit and Ms. Renate Khan.

President Ragamayi Yarlagadda thanked everyone for their support and welcomed the new executive committee. She thanked Mr Tausif Khan for his hard work for during 2016 and on behalf of The India-Australia Society Inc., she presented him with a gift.

She thanked all members of The IAS Inc. for electing her President and also expressed her sincere gratitude to Mr. Palani Thevar for taking time to attend the AGM and also to conduct the elections.

Ragamayi also stressed that the new committee should try to get more youth involved in the organization and bridge the gap between young and elderly communities. She indicated that her team will focus on both retaining current members and also recruiting new members. She expressed her desire to work with other community organisations and also with parent organisation such as Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland for the common benefit of the both Indian and Australian Communities.

She indicated that the new committee will meet in early new year and discuss the agenda and activities for 2017. The meeting was finished at 5.30pm with light refreshments.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 9

Education for deserving cases in Fiji

By Sarat Maharaj

SINCE 2002, International Congress for Fiji Inc ( ICFI ) has been providing for school fees to needy students in years 11, 12, & 13, vocational level, and diploma level of their education. Up till end of 2014, ICFI had funded 12,500 high school students in the amount of $865,000. As part of the election policy, the Fiji government decided to pay for tuition fees to all high school students.

Since then, ICFI has been concentrating on assisting vocational training and diploma level students who were not part of the Ethnic Scholarship Program nor did they qualify for a Loan Scheme offered by the government. Students who cannot even afford a lunch, how could they possibly qualify for a loan? But, these students are hungry for knowledge, and ICFI is a willing provider of tuition fees for them.

There have been many success stories of such students who have made worthwhile the investment made by members and supporters of International Congress for Fiji Inc. Here, I would like to share with you readers a couple of cases where it is very apparent that had it not been for funding organisations the likes of ICFI, these students would fall through the cracks, with absolutely no hope and no future.

For privacy reasons, I will suppress the identity of the students and others for obvious reasons. In the first case, this female student’s brother had been studying on a scholarship.

The mother got sick and was admitted in hospital for a long time. The father had a stroke. So, there was no income for the family. They became homeless, as they could not pay rent. The brother deferred his scholarship and returned home in Labasa to find work. His meagre income just barely met household expenses.

Here is an extract of e-mail this girl wrote to ICFI recently: “Dear Sir, I am (name suppressed) student of Fiji National university would like thank you and your organization for helping me in paying my fees for trimester 2. Sir I am the person whom you interviewed on Saturday at around 3pm.

Sir I would like to thank you for paying my fees for last trimester 2. I am very grateful to you and I was able to do my exam and pass with good grades. Sir I would like to thank you for every help that you provided to me. Sir below is my result and invoice for this trimester 3 and would be grateful for hear your reply soon. Yours faithfully” Yes, the exam results were good, therefore ICFI approved payment of fees for trimester 3. Once this girl graduates with Accounting & Economics, she most certainly will get a reasonably good-paying job. Then, she will not only manage the household expenses, but also allow her brother to complete

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

• Students deprived of school accommodation as a result of damage to schools from recent Cyclone Winston, which compounds the situation to access good basic education in Fiji at present.

his studies.

In the second case, a widowed mother worked as a house maid to educate her son. But, the income was hardly enough to provide for food and shelter for the family, leave alone providing for education for her son. ICFI Board decided to help this bright but financially very poor young man. He had achieved good marks in high school which landed him an apprenticeship in aircraft engineering. Fees for his tertiary courses were much higher than that of a vocational training student. Because this student had progressively excelled with good grades, ICFI again decided to support him to the very end of his aircraft engineering career. The good news is that earlier this year, he completed his studies and secured a permanent position with Fiji Airways. Here is his e-mail to ICFI Secretary: Bula sir, Hope you are well. I am good and there has not been any major damage during the cyclone. I have recently

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passed my third AMC Compass exam. Still waiting for vacancies to come out...will inform you of any updates...Find attached copy of my result. Have a nice day. Vinaka. (Vinaka means Thank you).

Followed by this e-mail: I am happy to tell you that I got the job as AME at Fiji Airways. The results just came out on Wednesday, 3 months after the interview. This couldn't have been possible without your support. Vinaka.

Now, these are only two of the many success stories! In Fiji, there are still thousands of cases, such as these, where students are struggling to finish a crucial stage of their education. They need our little help to get them across the line, and to start earning a living. Should you wish to participate in this noble course, you can contact myself on regmaharaj@gmail.com or any member of International Congress for Fiji Incorporated.

Call 07 3865 6533

The Mercedes-Benz Sale.

Find an excuse today.

Just when you thought you’d run out of excuses, Mercedes-Benz just made it that little bit easier. The Mercedes-Benz Sale gives you every reason to buy the car of your dreams. With just one small matter left to take care of and every incentive to do so. There’s no better time to visit Mercedes-Benz Brisbane. Go on, find an excuse; or simply trade in today. www.mbbrisbane.com.au Excludes GLC, GLC Coupé, S-Class Cabriolet and C-Class Cabriolet. For vehicles purchased and delivered between 3 January and 28 February 2017, unless extended and while stocks last.

Mercedes-Benz Brisbane 824 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley 07 3251 6666 3947684 www.mbbrisbane.com.au

Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 11

GCHCA News: Invitation for Public Meeting The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association wishes you all a Happy and peaceful 2017.

Queensland Multicultural Council Annual Dinner QUEENSLAND Multicultural Council held its annual dinner function on Thursday 8 December, 2016. The dinner was held at Yash Raj Indian Restaurant in Upper Mount Gravatt. Councillor Steven Huang represented Lord Mayor and Peter Russo MP represented Queensland Premier.

The delightful MC for the dinner was Ali Kadri, who not only managed the flow of the event but also kept everyone entertained and engaged.

The executive committee members of Queensland Multicultural Council were all extremely busy during the lead up to the function, despite which they managed to put on this successful annual event. Aunty Betty McGrady did the formal welcome to country, Hetal Rajguru did a Bollywood medley dance item after the formal speeches.

Special guests were members of Casa Raudha from Singapore, they run a safety home for women victims of domestic violence, they were accompanied by QPS cross Cultural liaison officer Jim Bellos. Founder President Hamzah Abdul Mutalib talked about their activity, he invited QMC members to visit their facilities if they are ever in Singapore, an offer that was taken up by

Queensland Multicultural Council President who together with GOPIO Queensland President Usha Chandra visited Casa Raudha Women home on Monday 26th December in Singapore.

Wayne Ko spoke on behalf of the board of trustees of Queensland Multicultural Council, Hermin Goonetilleke assisted by Naida Hernandez facilitated the raffles. Many generous donors had donated raffles prizes for the function. Janeth Deen delivered the vote of thanks. Everyone had a wonderful time while sharing a meal together at this successful annul dinner function.

Queensland Rail Christmas Day Report made public

WHILE we all enjoy the holiday season with our family and friends, the New Year comes with fresh hopes and determination. The GCHCA is strongly focused as ever to continue the goal of establishing the Hindu Cultural and Education Precinct. We hope to overcome the delay experienced in the last quarter of 2016 due to structural re-design required to get the building certifier approval which is a vital step in going further with construction.

While we say good bye to 2016, reflecting upon the year will help us focus and prioritize our goals for the New Year. 2016 was memorable for our progress in many fronts.

The Association experienced significant support from Local, State and Federal Governments in 2016 and we continue to work along with them. Our youth supporters showed leadership and maturity and were involved in number of activities directly through the Association and outside Association. Our supporter base and membership roll increased. The new committee elected in August 2016 had many new faces injecting fresh blood.

In 2017, our main challenge is to raise at least $2.4 million required to complete stage 1 & 2 of the construction. We want to reach the wider community and involve them as

members and supporters. We appeal to all of you to be part of this project and join the Association as a life member or financial contributor. We request all of you to spread the objectives and activities about this Association to your relatives, friends and other contacts and encourage them to join as a member or support by other means.

GCHCA is planning to have a Public Information meeting on Friday the 20th of January 2017 after the Bajan around 8pm. Your valuable suggestions and input at this important meeting would be appreciated. We invite all of you to participate in the Bajan and the meeting. The venue is, Helensvale Community Hall, No 31, Discovery Drive, Helensvale.

For more information about this project, please visit the GCHCA website. You are also more than welcome to contact the association’s President, Secretary or Treasurer if you have any further queries.

All tax-deductible donations ($2 or more) can be deposited into the following: Commonwealth Bank Account: The GCHCA Building Donation Account BSB: 064-474 Account Number: 104 88 900 Web site: www.GoldCoastHindu.org Email: gchcan@gmail.com The GCHCA wishes all you a Happy Pongal and looking forward to hear your views and suggestions at the public meeting.

Indian Senior Citizen Assn. Inc

Notice of Annual General Meeting Notice is hereby given that the AGM of the Indian Senior Citizen Association will be held at 11am to 1pm on Saturday 28th January 2017 at Runcorn State School hall, 200 Nemies Rd, Runcorn.

All executive positions will be declared vacant and nominations are invited for the following positions: • One President • 2 Vice Presidents • One Secretary • One Treasurer • One Publicity Officer, and • 5 Committee members Nomination forms are available from the secretary Shakuntla Mohan: Ph 3209 3235 or Email: babu.mohan@hotmail.com All nominations should reach the secretary at least 7 days before the AGM. You will need to be a paid financial member to stand for an official position Secretary Shakuntla Mohan

QUEENSLAND Rail’s report on the mass cancellation of Christmas Day train services has today been provided to the Strachan Commission of Inquiry by the Minister for Transport and the Commonwealth Games, Stirling Hinchliffe.

The report, prepared by Queensland Rail at the Minister’s direction, has also been made publicly available.

“I know the cancellation of 235 services by Queensland Rail - on Christmas Day of all days - inconvenienced many passengers and frankly they have a right to know why,” Minister Hinchliffe said.

“That’s why I’m making the report public, in full, warts-and-all, for Queenslanders to see and make their own assessment.

“This report, in my opinion, also provides an insight into some of the wider issues at play at Queensland Rail that have festered

for a number of years and are within the scope of the Strachan Commission of Inquiry investigation.

“It is important that Mr Strachan was furnished with the Christmas Day report to inform his investigation and recommendations for the reform of Queensland Rail.

“My meeting with Mr Strachan today has confirmed the Commission of Inquiry is on track to finalise its findings to the Premier by the end of the month.”

Issues identified by Queensland Rail’s Christmas Day report include: • Constrained driver availability • Higher than anticipated unavailability of drivers on RDOs • Limited rostering flexibility • Higher frequency of services than usually offered on Christmas Day Minister Hinchliffe said Queensland Rail’s

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

report rightly identifies the diabolical rostering issues experienced on Christmas Day should have been foreseeable and manageable by rail operations management.

“Clearly these fundamental matters weren’t properly handled by those responsible at Queensland Rail,” the Minister said.

“Those failings were compounded by the underlying shortage of traincrew, a misguided assumption that 115 drivers would work on their Christmas Day RDO, and an antiquated, inflexible and manual rostering system that has not kept pace with technology.

“For too long Queensland Rail has relied on the goodwill of drivers to work additional shifts to keep services running - it’s just not good enough.

“I want to again thank the traincrew, station staff and operations staff that worked Christmas Day, but also those who have given up days off throughout the year to fill rosters and provide services to passengers.

“As the report demonstrates when the depth of the service cancellations were made clear to me on the afternoon of Christmas Eve, I directed Queensland Rail to waive fares for Christmas Day in recognition of the impact this would have.

“I again apologise for the disruption to pas-

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sengers, it is unacceptable and that’s why I instructed Queensland Rail to double its focus on the recruitment and training of 200 additional drivers for CityTrain network, as authorised by the Palaszczuk Government.

“There have already been some changes to the management of Queensland Rail since Christmas Day and I make no secret of my expectation there may be more once the Commission of Inquiry completes its investigation.

“I am continuing to work closely with the senior leaders within Queensland Rail who are committed to seeing change for the better service of our customers.”

The Minister has instructed Queensland Rail to keep a Register of Actions detailing progress on addressing the failings of Christmas Day including the rollout of a new roster software modernisation project to improve roster planning, centralisation and real time information.

“As I have said previously, this is not a mess of my creation, but I am cleaning it up and, as this report demonstrates, there is a realisation within Queensland Rail we need to see results.”

The Christmas Day report is available on the Queensland Rail website at: http://bit.ly/2jgcDcu Call 07 3865 6533

Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 13

8th Annual Meena Ram Saini Memorial Kavi Samellan and Cricket Carnival KHETRI, Rajasthan: The 8th annual Meena Ram Saini memorial function was held in Khetri Rajasthan from 30 Dec till 1st Jan. The Cricket match began on 30th December at the historic polo grounds of Khetri, Umesh Chandra inaugurated the tournament by cutting the ribbon and opening bat. The final match was played on 31st December, Umesh Chandra presented the trophies to the winning team and the man of the match at the presentation ceremony. Usha Chandra presented special gifts to the players of the two teams who made it to the finals. This annual tournament is much looked forward to by everyone in Khetri.

The 8th annual Kavi Samellan (Poet Fest) in memory of Late Mr Meena Ram Saini, Umesh Chandra’s grandfather was held on 1st January 2017. Being a Sunday and public holiday people turned out in very large numbers to this annual function. According to the organising committee this was the largest turnout ever. The function was inaugurated by Respected Swami Ji of Ram Krishna Mission of Khetri. Umesh Chandra was given a Safa (Rajasthani Turban) as a sign of high respect.

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

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Usha Chandra was given a shawl of honour.

Poet Harish Hindustani presided over the proceedings, he has been doing this from the very first Kavi Samellan. The poets covered different topics including Comedy, Patriotism, Current affairs, and Romance. The poets and the topics were so interesting that not a single person left the venue till the end.

Every year everyone eagerly awaits Umesh Chandra’s final speech, which he delivers in Hindi, this year inspired by the poets Umesh too made a small poem which was applauded by everyone. The poetry related to his heath condition despite which he there for the event.

The annual event is always funded by Umesh and Usha Chandra, their uncle Ram Jattan of London has partly contributed previously. The Organising committee consists of Dinesh Ram Saini, Gopal Ram Saini, Gopal Sharma (Patrakar), Keshav Saini and other volunteers.

The event is well covered by local media and is attended by many government officials, politicians, police and local community leaders.

Call 07 3865 6533

Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 15

Queensland businesses Queenslanders urged to swim between the flags tap into university graduate expertise QUEENSLANDERS are set to benefit from new partnerships between businesses and university graduates developed as part of a Palaszczuk Government innovation program.

Acting Minister for Small Business Kate Jones said the Knowledge Transfer Partnerships funding would connect small and medium sized businesses with university graduates to work on business problems.

“The program brings together Queensland business and universities to exchange ideas, and develop innovative and novel business solutions,” Ms Jones said.

“In these latest rounds of funding, 16 businesses across the state will be supported to employ a university graduate with specific skills to work on projects in the mining, manufacturing, education and training, health care and social assistance and tourism sectors.

“This is a win-win for small and medium sized businesses and university graduates.”

Each business will receive up to $50,000 towards the cost of collaborating with an Honours, Masters or PhD graduate who will work on a specific project focused on innovation and business growth.

“These projects create job opportunities through helping small and medium sized businesses succeed, leading to long-term economic and community benefits,” she said.

“By applying the knowledge and innovative thinking of university graduates to solve a business challenge, graduates are employed, businesses can grow and Queenslanders can benefit from the new and improved product or service.

“The latest rounds of funding are being shared across a range of businesses and industries.”

Townsville based Campbell Scientific Australia will work with a James Cook University graduate to develop a low cost sensor for water management.

Campbell Scientific Australia Managing Director Stephen Bailey said, “Queensland is a state in which water dominates aspects of our industry, environment and quality of life.

Given the traditional methods of monitoring water levels – expensive instrumentation and manual downloading of data – very little of this vital resource is actually monitored.”

“We expect this project will lead to increased turnover as we market our product both nationally and globally – ultimately resulting in 100–150 full-time employees in

our Townsville-based headquarters,” he said.

Brisbane-based Synapse (formerly Brain Injury Association of Queensland), in collaboration with a Griffith University graduate, will continue work on an online screening tool called the ‘Guddi’ for neuro-cognitive assessment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in regional and remote Queensland.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience significantly poorer health and disability outcomes than other Australians,” Synapse National Research and Development Manager Dr Clare Townsend said.

“Through Advance Queensland funding, our project will identify neurocognitive disability in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, which in turn will inform more targeted service delivery, specialist intervention and better quality of life.

“We’re a non-government organisation and this partnership will enable us to recruit a psychology graduate with advanced skills in statistical analysis who will deliver a skill set not currently available in-house.”

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships recipients • DINGO Software Pty Ltd – Wilston • BIVACOR Pty Ltd – Wilston • Campbell Scientific Australia Pty Ltd – Garbutt • Synapse (formerly Brain Injury Association of Queensland) – West End • Community Lifestyle Support – Bundaberg • Central Highlands Science Centre Inc – Emerald • Queensland Ballet – West End • Atechnology International Pty Ltd – Norman Park • Forester’s Community Finance Ltd – Bowen Hills • Sealink Queensland Pty Ltd – Townsville • All Energy Pty Ltd – Spring Hill • Digital Syndicate Studios – Varsity Lakes • Exploration Drill Rigs Pty Ltd – Redbank • Community Information Support Services Ltd – Fortitude Valley • Psychological Solutions (Qld) Pty Ltd – Belmont • GIS People Pty Ltd – Fortitude Valley For further information about the Knowledge Transfer Partnerships program, and to see a full list of recipients visit the Advance Queensland website.

Brisbane comes alive for BrisAsia TENS of thousands of people will flock to Brisbane’s CBD from Friday 27 January to Sunday 19 February for the fifth annual BrisAsia Festival.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the popular festival celebrated the best of Asian arts and culture, presenting more than 80 events and activities across the city.

“Last year’s event attracted more than 70,000 people to events across the city as well as 537 artists, curators, producers and specialist technicians,” Cr Quirk said.

“BrisAsia features some of the finest theatre, dance, food, music, film, talks and visual arts, providing a wonderful opportunity to discover and celebrate Asian cultures in Brisbane.

“The festival will open at sunrise on Friday 27 January with the Monks of Tibet offering a special meditation experience followed by Salute to the Sun, a free yoga session at the Cultural Forecourt at South Bank.

“Throughout the festival, visitors will have the opportunity to experience Asian culture including an ao dai (Vietnamese costume) fashion parade, origami workshops, ikebana displays, Japanese storytelling, bamboo lantern workshops and more.

“William Jolly Bridge will light up the Brisbane River as it is transformed into a canvas of art with lights projected onto its pillars and

arches during the three week festival.”

Many of Council’s regular programs are also taking on an Asian twist for the festival including World Kitchen cooking classes, Tai Chi Qigong, yoga and karate in Brisbane parks, creative workshops and activities for nature lovers in the Boondall Wetlands and Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha.

BrisAsia Festival also incorporates Council’s Chinese Lunar New Year festivities which will bring Chinatown Mall to life with lion dancers, traditional dance, markets and firecrackers from Saturday 28 to Sunday 29 January.

“Residents and visitors can bring in the Year of the Rooster with a great range of entertainment of the Chinese Lunar New Year Weekend,” he said.

Cr Quirk said the multicultural celebration fostered a strong connection and collaboration between Brisbane and Asia.

“Events like BrisAsia Festival contribute to Brisbane’s reputation as a New World City that builds global connections and attracts talent that contributes to our vibrant and creative city,” he said.

For more information, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/brisasiafestival or call Council on (07) 3403 8888.

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

MINISTER for Emergency Services Mark Ryan has reminded Queenslanders and visitors to our Sunshine State to swim between the flags and stay safe on our beaches while meeting with surf lifesavers on the Gold Coast on 7 January.

“Our volunteer surf lifesavers do an amazing job in keeping a close eye on our beaches to ensure we can enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful beaches right here in Queensland,” Minister Ryan said.

“The Queensland Government will provide $5.4 million this financial year to Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) in order to keep our beaches safe as well as support the operational of the Surf Life Saving Queensland helicopter.

“But our surf lifesavers also need your help when it comes to safety on our beaches.

“I urge everyone to swim between the redand-yellow flags as this is the part of the beach being patrolled by lifesavers and has been assessed as the safest place to swim.

“It does not matter how strong of a swimmer you are, swimming between the red-and-yellow flags is the safest option.”

SLSQ chief executive officer John Brennan OAM said Queensland’s volunteer surf lifesavers had saved thousands of lives in the past 12 months alone.

“Each and every year, millions of people flock to Queensland’s beautiful beaches and entrust our volunteer surf lifesavers to keep them safe in and around the water,” Mr Brennan said.

“In 2015/16 our 8,000 strong volunteer patrolling members across Queensland combined to perform 2,124 rescues and, this season to date, they’ve already saved a further 331 lives.

“Tragically, despite these efforts, we’re con-

tinuing to see people lose their lives on Queensland beaches, including 11 drownings in 2015/16. With that in mind, I can’t stress enough how important it is for people to only ever swim at patrolled locations and between the red and yellow flags.”

“Queensland also has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world and the sun can also cause heat-related illnesses,” Minister Ryan said.

“So remember to drink plenty of water while on the beach to stay hydrated and take steps to protect yourself against skin cancer such as applying sunscreen and wearing appropriate clothing.”

For further information on staying safe on Queensland’s beaches visit www.qld.gov.au/emergency/emergenciesservices/surf-lifesaving.html

Greatest literary show on earth heads to Melbourne this summer AT the invitation of Asia TOPA, Melbourne Writers Festival has joined forces with Jaipur Literature Festival to today launch JLF Melbourne, a brand new summer festival celebrating the best of South Asian and Australian writing and ideas.

MWF Festival Director Lisa Dempster said JLF Melbourne would transport the magic, colour and excitement of one of the world’s biggest literary celebrations to Fed Square.

“JLF Melbourne will bring ‘the greatest literary show on Earth’ to Australia’s City of Literature for just one weekend,” Ms Dempster said.

“This thrilling pop-up festival will connect the unique identities of South Asia and Australia. Through talks, performances, music and poetry, JLF Melbourne will explore culture, migration, identity and gender issues, politics, the environment, travel and history.”

Among the international stars unveiled are eminent transgender rights activist, dancer and actress Laxmi Narayan Tripathi (Red Lipstick: The Men in My Life), Indian politician and award-winning writer Shashi Tharoor (India Shastra: Reflections on the Nation in Our Time), esteemed travel writer and former reporter Mishi Saran (Chasing the Monk’s Shadow: A Journey in the Footsteps of Xuanzang) and Sofia Ashraf, the powerful singer and songwriter behind the viral Kodaikanal Won’t rap video.

An impressive selection of local literary talent will also appear at JLF Melbourne, including journalist and political commentator George Megalogenis, distinguished writer and academic Tony Birch, journalist and screenwriter Benjamin Law and award-winning poet Michelle Cahill.

JLF Melbourne will feature a single ticketed gala evening event, including a smorgasbord

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of food, drink and not-to-be-missed live performances, surrounded by a weekend of free events.

“Just like its Jaipur namesake, JLF Melbourne will be a fluid event where guests can move freely from session to session and really soak up the atmosphere,” Ms Dempster said.

JLF Melbourne will also see the launch of the City of Literature’s digital storytelling app, a collection of tales narrated by JLF Melbourne guests that will unfold for avid readers as they explore Fed Square.

Ms Dempster said JLF Melbourne was a chance to try something new and different.

“Book your tickets to the gala through the Asia TOPA website and download the storytelling app to discover amazing stories by some of the world’s leading writers at JLF Mel bourne,” she said.

“JLF Melbourne is here for one weekend only, so make sure you don’t miss out on this celebration of Indian and Australian literature and culture on 11-12 February 2017.”

JLF Melbourne is held in collaboration with Melbourne Writers Festival, Teamwork Arts, Fed Square and Arts Centre Melbourne as part of Asia TOPA, with Readings as the Festival’s Official Bookseller.

The full program can be found at mwf.com.au/jlf-melbourne/ Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 17

2016, the year that was: Politics and Society Authors theconversation.com.au

Amanda Dunn Editor, The Conversation

John Watson Editor, The Conversation

Wes Mountain Deputy Multimedia Editor, The Conversation

IF you had the feeling that global politics in 2016 operated on something of a fault line, you’re not alone. Month after month, the world was rocked by unexpected yet momentous events: terror attacks in Nice and Brussels, Brexit and the rise of Trump, to name just a few.

Here in Australia, our federal election on July 2 seemed fairly tame by comparison, despite the fact that it took more than a week for the result to be known (even then, we didn’t know if it would be a minority or majority government).

There was, too, the unmistakable irony of going to a double-dissolution election be-

cause of a fractured and unwieldy Senate, only to find ourselves after the election with a razor-thin majority government and a fractured and unwieldy Senate.

Before all of that, the relatively new Turnbull government was having trouble passing its industrial relations laws, the rejection of which by the Senate was the ostensible reason for the double-dissolution election. Part of this reflected the changing nature of trade unions, which we covered in a series in April.

It wasn’t until December that the government finally negotiated the passage of the enabling bill for the Australian Building and Corruption Commission (ABCC), by which time, judging by the response, few Australians seemed to care.

Tale of two Australias One of the most striking aspects of the federal election result was the extent to which, as Dennis Altman wrote, the “rusted on” vote has diminished. This reflects, albeit in a more understated way, the seismic political shifts happening elsewhere in the world: the shift away from establishment parties and institutions; the boom of right-wing populism.

In Australia, this was reflected by the rise of

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

the “micro” parties at the expense particularly of the two major parties. One Nation and Pauline Hanson returned seemingly stronger than ever; the moderate populist line offered by the Nick Xenophon team also appealed. Jacqui Lambie, Bob Katter and Cathy McGowan were returned to parliament while the “Human Headline”, Derryn Hinch, joined the Senate.

Since the election, the micro parties and independents have provided much of parliament’s colour – One Nation has already split with controversial Senator Rod Culleton, while Family First’s Bob Day quit after his business collapsed.

Political donations continue to be in the spotlight, with calls for more transparency on exactly what donors expect – and are given – their generous support.

We can only hope for a calmer and more constructive parliament in 2017. We’re unlikely to get it, of course, but we can hope.

Take a jump to the left? No, a huge step to the right Our seemingly endless election campaign was sandwiched between two cataclysmic and unexpected politic events.

The first was the stunning success of the Brexit campaign, led by Nigel Farage and Boris Johnson, which was not predicted when Britons went to vote in the referendum.

The result caused British Prime Minister David Cameron to resign, and Theresa May to become the UK’s second female prime minister.

The Brexit result left many pundits wondering how they didn’t see it coming. But if that was a surprise, it was nothing alongside the November 8 election of Donald Trump as the next president of the United States, so sure were so many that Hillary Clinton would become the first woman elected to what is still arguably the most powerful job in the world.

She had, after all, performed clinically in the three televised debates, while Trump seemed to stumble from one disaster to another, all the while using the media to his advantage – even though the media were largely critical of him.

Trump’s election caused – and continues to cause – a great deal of consternation, with worries about how he will handle the Asian region, immigration and the economy among a host of other issues. His presidency promises one thing for sure: it will not be dull.

Tale of two Australias, part two: gay marriage, safe schools and free speech Politics and policy are often slow to catch up with social change. With that in mind, and with the legalisation on gay marriage poised to go to a plebiscite under a returned Coalition government, we launched a series in May looking at just how the family has changed.

Still, after heated debate and canvassing both the pros and cons of a plebiscite, the notion was eventually rolled by the Senate out of fears of the damage a public campaign could do young LGBTI people and their families.

The same-sex marriage debate has embedded in it a question of freedom of speech, which had a nexus with another passionately contested, and still unresolved, debate: whether Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act should be changed. So hotly debated was it that we published a series on the politics of free speech in September.

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Led by powerful conservative voices within the government such as Senator Cory Bernardi, you can expect to hear plenty more about freedom of speech, and in particular 18C, in the year ahead.

That wasn’t the only issue that was exercising Bernardi and other conservatives such as George Christensen. The Safe Schools Coalition, and the sex ed program it offers in Australian schools, became one of the most fiercely contested issues inside the parliament and in society more broadly. Of most concern seemed to be discussing issues of gender identity and fluidity with schoolchildren – an issue on which research is often cast aside in favour of ideology. Again, there is little doubt that this debate will be revisited in the coming year.

The nation was shocked in July after the airing of a Four Corners program detailing the abuse of children at the Don Dale facility in the Northern Territory. The shocking footage immediately prompted the prime minister to announce a royal commission, as our authors unpacked the nature of torture, the failure of the state to care for prisoners – especially the very young – and why so many Indigenous children are incarcerated in the first place.

Islamic State falters in Iraq and Syria, and terror hits Europe What may have initially looked like an accident: a truck ploughing into a crowd of people in the French city of Nice, was soon revealed to be an act of terrorism.

This followed the Brussels bombing in March, for which Islamic State claimed responsibility.

Then, in December, a truck ploughed into a Christmas market in Berlin, in an attack eerily similar to the one in Nice, boding ill for the year ahead and the ongoing threat of terror.

Meanwhile, the cities of Mosul and Aleppo will be forever etched in our minds, for the worst possible reasons. Even though IS is on the back foot in both cities, their futures, and those of their citizens, remain uncertain.

There is no sign this will end any time soon.

Hot in the cities Closer to home, throughout 2016 we explored how our cities are responding to challenges such as climate change and the pressures of simultaneous urban expansion and densification on resources, urban infrastructure and services, including the humble public toilet.

Most competing “global cities” aspire to be more resilient, sustainable and liveable. Yet the problems of unaffordable housing and transport congestion seem a world away from the technology-driven promise of smart cities. Questions of grossly unequal access, opportunity, wealth and wellbeing across cities continued to occupy our authors.

In seeking answers to these questions, we considered how more coherent, inclusive and democratic urban policymaking might help make city life better for all.

What will the new year hold?

After all that happened in 2016, 2017 will have to be a quieter, gentler year, right? Well, let’s just put it this way: one of the first major international political events on the 2017 calendar is the January 20 inauguration of the next president of the United States and avid tweeter, Donald Trump.

Happy new year.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 19

A ‘tougher’ citizenship test should not be used to further divide and exclude Authors theconversation.com.au

Alex Reilly Deputy Dean and Director of the Public Law and Policy Research Unit, Adelaide Law School, University of Adelaide

Mary Anne Kenny Associate Professor, School of Law, Murdoch University

IMMIGRATION Minister Peter Dutton recently raised the prospect of changing the law around acquiring Australian citizenship.

He acknowledged the vast majority of migrants are well-integrated, and should be fasttracked for citizenship. However, Dutton would like to see criteria tightened to deny citizenship to those who have not integrated into Australia. While details are unclear, he referred to people involved in serious crime, those who are welfare-dependent, or who have links with extremism.

Dutton was also concerned about people who don’t undertake English lessons or prevent their children from being educated.

What’s the point of citizenship?

Permanent residents in Australia enjoy almost the full range of civil and political rights as citizens. They have access to the welfare system (after initial waiting periods), Medicare, and education.

Citizens alone are able to vote and have a greater security of residence. They are subject to removal only if they have fought for the armed forces of an enemy country or, since 2014, if they are involved in activity defined to be linked with terrorism.

Citizenship is important for people to feel fully connected and committed to Australia.

For some – in particular refugees – the increased security of residence is of extremely high importance, given they are unable to return to their countries of origin for fear of

persecution.

For those who came to Australia by boat, citizenship is the only pathway to sponsoring family members to join them.

The pathway to citizenship Citizenship is the final step in a process of becoming a full member of the Australian community. There are many checks along the way.

When Australia admits permanent residents, the expectation is that they will stay permanently and take up citizenship at some point in the future. When permanent residents become citizens it is a marker of their successful integration.

Knowing that permanent residents are likely to be future citizens, Australia makes difficult policy choices around the balance of skilled, family reunion and humanitarian migration.

The government sets a target for the maximum number of new residents each year, and visa-holders are subject to rigorous checks to ensure they meet the criteria for those visas.

These checks include detailed security and character assessments.

By the time a permanent resident is in a position to apply for citizenship, they must have lived in Australia for four years and have remained of good character during that time. If they do not remain of good character, their visa may be cancelled and they can be removed to their country of origin.

The immigration minister regularly exercises this power – even, controversially, in relation to long-term permanent residents with children in Australia.

Also, as part of eligibility for citizenship, a person must be of “good character” and must provide national police checks. The Department of Immigration can also request Interpol and overseas police checks.

Are citizenship tests the best way?

In 2007, the Howard government introduced a citizenship test to help determine whether

applicants satisfied two further requirements for citizenship. They must have: • a “basic knowledge” of English; and • “an adequate knowledge of Australia and of the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship”.

Citizenship tests are not well-suited to testing an applicant’s “values”. They are also a crude measure of an applicant’s level of English.

Australia’s test no longer contains questions about cricketer Don Bradman, after it was reviewed in 2008. It now focuses on knowledge of the institutions of government, and of basic constitutional values such as free speech.

Being able to rote learn these values is not an indication that a person lives by them. And the language of values and rights is complicated, and not a useful test of basic English literacy skills.

Can we test for ‘integration’?

Questions remain as to whether it is possible to test for successful integration into Australia.

A recent Productivity Commission report framed integration as both economic integration and social inclusion. It is not just the skills and efforts of individual migrants that are key to promoting integration, but the so-

cietal attitudes, and government policies and programs that support settlement and removing barriers to integration.

The most important benefit of citizenship for migrants is the sense of inclusion and acceptance into their adopted community. Requirements for citizenship should therefore promote inclusion, not exclusion.

Discussions that focus on exclusion have the potential to alienate sectors of the community. They are a hindrance to people obtaining a sense of connection in Australia.

As Dutton observed, there are good reasons to encourage permanent residents to take up citizenship: for one, it enhances their integration in the community.

To the extent that poor English and poor understanding of Australian values is a barrier to this integration, the government needs to increase its efforts to educate prospective citizens – not look for ways to exclude them.

Disclosure statement Alex Reilly has received research fundng from Horticulture Innovaion Austalia and the Fair Work Ombudsman.

He is on the Management Committee of the Refugee Advocacy Service of South Australia which offers pro bono migration assistance to asylum seekers in South Australia.

Mary Anne Kenny has received funding from the Australian Research Council. She receives sitting fees from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

PBD 2017

HIGH COMMISSION OF INDIA CANBERRA

THE High Commission of India, Canberra celebrated Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on 9th January 2017. About 100 People from the Indian Community in ACT attended the function.

Speaking on the occasion, High Commissioner Dr. Ajay M.Gondane encouraged those present to work to strengthen India-Australia

relations. Emphasising on the importance of the contribution of the Diaspora to India, Dr. Gondane said that cohorts of people in different professions such as education, health, academics etc could discuss issues relating to India and send their suggestions. Reiterating that the High Commission and its staff were committed to the well being of the Diaspora, he said the doors of the High Commission and India House were always open to them.

He highlighted the importance of the interchange of ideas.

Distinguished members of the In-

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

dian community spoke on different aspects of India-Australia relations and encouraged those present to excel in their chosen fields and contribute to strengthening relations between both countries. Prof Jagadish spoke about the numerous nanotech applications in fields like disease control and reduction of water pollution. Prof Jha spoke about the symbiotic relationship between the Indian and Australian economies and how cooperation could be enhanced in the economic field. Mr. Subhash Dang spoke on enhancing Defence Cooperation www.indiantimes.com.au

between India and Australia. Mr. Ramesh Malik spoke on the problems being faced by members of the Indian community and measures that could be taken to alleviate them. Student, Mr. Dominic spoke about Higher Education in Australia and the experience of Indian students in it.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated on 9th January every year to mark the contribution of Overseas Indian community in the development of India. January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion since it was on this

day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa, led India's freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever.

PBD conventions held every year since 2003, provide a platform to the overseas Indian community to engage with the government for mutually beneficial activities.

These conventions are also very useful in networking among the overseas Indian community residing in various parts of the world and enable them to share their experiences in various fields.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 21

2017 Brisbane Pongal Event organised

by Thaai Tamil School

By Mala Dhanasekar ALL across the world, special occasions are celebrated. These events and festivities stem from religious and ancient traditions and they are always associated with joy, making these occasions significant, educational and something that gets passed down through generations.

One tradition has been around since the ancient times and is globally celebrated and it is the harvest festival called Pongal. This term derives from the tradition of worshiping “The Sun”. This can been seen ranging from Aztec mythology to African traditions as well as throughout many different religions such as Buddhism, Christianity and of course, Hinduism. While the concept of these festivals are generally the same but the traditions on how they celebrate these festivities tend to vary.

The Thai Pongal festival is celebrated on the 14th January. It is one of the most important festivals for Tamil people, as it also symbolizes the Tamil New Year. The main aim of the festival is to convey an appreciation and show respect towards “The Sun” for various reasons, such as providing a life source for the agriculture.

Pongal festival runs for four days; Bhogi Pongal being the first day where people worship by using the first paddy harvested rice to create a traditional dish called Pongal, as named after the festival. The second day is called Perum Pongal (Thai Pongal) when people wear new clothes and it’s customary to use some oil on your body before taking a bath. The third day is called Mattu Pongal where animals involved in agriculture such as cattle are worshiped by being bathed and dressed in vibrant colours and festive

to offer.

The Thaai Tamil School will be proudly hosting the annual Pongal festival for 2017.

The event details are as follows: Date: 21 January 2017 Venue: Robelle Domain Park, Springfield Central Time: 3pm - 9pm Cost: Free entry

attire. The fourth and final day is called Kanum Pongal where people pay a visit to their family and friends, while a prayer is performed by women and some rice is left outside for the birds to feast on.

As Pongal is fast approaching and Christmas having just passed, it’s important to remem-

Australia Post celebrates the Year of the Rooster TO celebrate the Year of the Rooster, 28 January 2017 to 15 February 2018, Australia Post is releasing two Lunar New Year stamps.

As the tenth sign in the Chinese Zodiac, the Rooster symbolises confidence, resourcefulness, courage and persistence.

Creating this year's Lunar New Year range in line with traditional Chinese design and customs, Australia Post Philatelic Manager Michael Zsolt said the products, including a postcard, give everyone an opportunity to send wishes of good fortune and health to family and friends, both here and overseas.

Completing her tenth stamp issue in the Lunar New Year series of twelve, Hong Kong-born Dani Poon said she used paper cut motifs, a popular form of Chinese art, to represent the Rooster in the $1 stamp. The Chinese calligraphic character for the Rooster is shown in the $3 stamp.

"The Chinese assign the Rooster as a proverbial mascot to the five virtues – civil responsibility, marital fidelity, courage, kindness and confidence. Those qualities are illustrated in the minisheet story – the Rooster coaxes the fearful hidden sun out from her hiding place. The puffed-up chest of the Rooster in the $1 stamp sums up the Rooster's positive personalities. The Rooster is also traditionally related to the chasing away of evil spirits, by calling the sun out and bringing the light to life," Dani said.

Famous people born in the Year of the Rooster include Britney Spears, Cate Blanchett and former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

A highlight of this stamp issue is a special silk minisheet pack, finished with purple foil detailing and where one of the three

sheets in the pack is printed on silk. A 24 carat gold Year of the Rooster minisheet in a presentation case is also a highly collectable part of the range.

Collectors and those celebrating the Chinese New Year will be interested in a limited edition (8,888) Chinese New Year Dragon postal and numismatic cover featuring a $1 Perth Mint coloured coin.

Other products associated with this stamp issue are a minisheet, zodiac sheetlet, first day cover, stamp pack, postcard, prestige booklet, customisable $1 stamp in the Personalised Stamps™ range, gutter strip of 10 x $1 stamps with design, domestic and international postage paid envelopes and a Lunar New Year of the Rooster postal and numismatic cover.

The Christmas Island Lunar New Year: Year of the Rooster 2017 stamp issue is available from 10 January 2017 at participating Post Offices, via mail order on 1800 331 794 and online at auspost.com.au/stamps while stocks last.

Personalised Stamps™ can be ordered at auspost.com.au/pstamps. The Christmas Island Lunar New Year: Year of the Rooster 2017 stamps are valid for postage in Australia.

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

ber that though we all celebrate different traditions, we all celebrate for the same reasons that, the epitome of festivals is always to show respect for one another, bring together family, friends and faith as well as to appreciate the importance of where you come from and what that land and those traditions have

The day will consist of both children and adult activities as well as food stalls being available between 3pm and 6pm. Some of the activities which will be held include a Kolam competition, a demonstration of Silambam, Martial Arts as well as dances, magic shows, face painting and fireworks.

A big thank you to the Competitive Queensland Multicultural grant, Media supporters, local community organisations and community volunteers for helping to make this event possible.

Mr Peter Russo Member of Parliament, Sunnybank is the ambassador for this Pongal Festival and we have an anticipated 3000+ attendance of both Tamil and non-Tamil community members from all around Brisbane.

We would like to invite political leaders and community leaders to attend the event to show their support. Anyone who is interested in becoming a sponsor or anyone who is interested in hosting a stall, please contact Mr Mugunth Subramaniam on 0423730122.

Updated information regarding the event is available on the Facebook page “Pongal festival Queensland 2017.

Event page: https://facebook.com/events/1163953357022 877. Please check this out for further details.

Tens of thousands of preschoolers to learn a language in 2017 TENS of thousands of Australian preschoolers will try their hand at languages this year as the Turnbull Government rolls out its popular early learning languages program across the country.

Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said he expected more than 30,000 children would learn Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese or Spanish as part of the Early Learning Languages Australia (ELLA) program in 2017.

Minister Birmingham said it was the first time the program had been open across the country and the response so far had been “incredible” but preschools and child care centres were running out of time to sign up to take part.

“Learning a foreign language doesn’t just give children the gift of the gab, it can boost other vital skills like problem solving and their literacy in English that ultimately carry through to their performance at school,” Minister Birmingham said.

“ELLA is a play-based way for children to learn another language and open their mind and following the program’s successful trials last year we’ve committed an additional $5.9 million to roll it out to any eligible preschool or child care centre that wants to take part.

“Through our initial $9.8 million commitment to develop and trial the program in 2014 and 2015, we’ve seen how the ELLA languages program can have positive impact on our children and so parents and families should get in touch with their preschool or child care service and ask them to sign up.

We have a range of tools in place to help services roll out the ELLA program but they need to register by February 26 2017.

“The ELLA program has been a big hit with parents, educators and of course the children

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themselves and thanks to our additional funding of $5.9 million this will be the first year that anyone can take part.”

Minister Birmingham said 25 per cent of the 852 preschools and child care centres that had signed up so far would study Chinese, 18 per cent Japanese, 13 per cent French, 9 per cent Indonesian and 3 per cent Arabic while the two new languages for 2017, Italian and Spanish, had attracted 15 per cent and 17 per cent of applications respectively.

“The popularity of Chinese shows it’s clear that educators and families see the benefits for their children in having those language skills which will help them take advantage of the opportunities Asia presents later in life,” Minister Birmingham said.

“It’s encouraging to see diversity in which languages are being chosen and that one in three centres are choosing the newly added Italian and Spanish. Estimates show that after Chinese, Spanish is the world’s second most popular language so a strong grounding in its basics will open a range of possibilities for our children.

“We know life-long learning begins from the youngest years and our $15.7 million investment in the languages app highlights the Turnbull Government’s commitment to reviving the study of languages throughout Australia’s early education centres, schools and universities.

“Even where young students may not continue into school with the language they learned in preschool, research indicates that they will enjoy real cognitive and developmental benefits from learning another language in their earliest years.”

For more information visit www.education.gov.au/early-learning -languages-australia Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 23

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 25

Who, What, Where, When

• India-Australia Society Inc (IAS) 39th AGM was held on 10th December 2016, pictured are invited guests and committee members. Full story page 8.

GOOD TIMES EVENTS & YOU WE BUSINESS CONSULTING IN ASSOICATION WITH FLY HI PRODUCTION PRESENTED BRISBANE’S 1st BOLLYWOOD EDM DANCE PARTY ON 17 DECEMBER 2016 Photo’s Ron Kahlon Photography

• In November 2016, Kaushal, Mukesh and Tanmay had a great opportunity to meet Australian Cricketer David Warner, Bollywood's famous Director, Producer and Actor Anurag Kashyap who attended Asia Pacific film festival in Brisbane, Rohini Hattangadi who was in Brisbane to play her leading role in Gujarati drama "Baa tane hu kya raakhu" and she is the only Indian Actress to win the BAFTA award for best actress, Bollywood's famous actor Manoj Bajpai who won the best actor award for Bollywood movie "Aligarh" at Asia Pacific film festival in Brisbane and Bollywood's famous Director, Producer, Writer and Actor Ashutosh Gowariker who was Head of Jury at International Indian film festival in Brisbane.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

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86 Scott Lane, North Maclean / www.shree vi shnumayamandir.com.au .

Ph: 55486814 or Mob:0481 23 8360

Celebrates A Grand 3 days Murthi Pran Pratisht ha Performed by Dharam Guru Pt Tripathi Ji.

January, 20th to 22 nd 2017.

Friday 20 th - 6 to 10am Murti Suddhikar an aur Diwabas & Murti Sanskaar Prarambh (Begins) 10:00am ± Breakfast , 1:00pm ± Lunch & Bhajans all day .

5:00 to 8:00pm Continuation of Murti Sanskaar aur Ratribas then dinner Sat 21st - 6 to 10am Continuation of Murti Sanskaar aur Diwabas 10:00am ± Breakfast , 1:00pm ± Lunch & Bhajans all day .

5:00 to 8:00pm Murti Pranpratistha then dinner Sun 22nd - 6 to 10am Yagana for all devotees with no compulsory donation.

10:00am ± Breakfast , 1:00pm ± Lunch & Bhajans all day .

5:00pm onwards Special Bhajans by Anuradha Paudwal 8:00pm Pratham Darshan, Pratham Bhog & Aarti etc.

Then Maha Prasad ± Dinner will be served.

Bhajans by: Anuradha Paudwal & Local Artists Golden opportunity to Provide 1 st Bhog to All the D eities For the opening - Sunday 22 nd Jan, 2017 ± Sponsor $5 11.00 Food sponsor $300.00 or any donation is much appreciated. Please contact: Dhiru Desai: 0406 21 3153, Devika Maharaj: 0424 89 1159, Suresh Chand 0450 66 3841, Ram Asre 0418 18 8165 Bharat Solanki: 0411 13 1485, Rajesh Gopal: 0422 34 4046 Hitesh Motiram : 0412 10 2785 or Jyoti Womens Club Inc. For online donation facility visit : www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au Media Sponsors

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 27

Timeless beauty of Santiburi on Samui’s serene North Shore

By Rama Gaind SANTIBURI Beach Resort & Spa in Thailand is where you’ll find pristine golden sand, stunning blue water and palms swaying softly in the breeze – and be in one of those magical places that’s regarded as ‘paradise on earth’.

It is one of Koh Samui’s most highly regarded holiday destinations.

There are some compelling reasons to go to Thailand and uncover (or rediscover) Santiburi and reassess Samui through the reflective beams of its stunning, pristine and serene North Shore.

Following a multi-million-dollar renovation, it can secure its position as the island’s only member of Leading Hotels of the World.

Santiburi’s general manager Cedric Bonvin said the relaunch of the hotel was very exciting.

“Those who know and love Santiburi will be blown away by the changes - it’s almost like a new hotel,” he said. “We invite people with open minds to rediscover not just Santiburi, but Samui itself through the prism of our serene and laid-back North Shore.”

“All our efforts have been towards creating sanctuaries of true relaxation and timeless style.”

Quality accommodation The suites and villas, offering the ultimate in peace and privacy, are stunning along the champagne sands of Mae Nam Beach, ceding to a private half-moon bay that’s ideal for long lazy days on the beach and family frol-

Above: Following a multi-million-dollar renovation, the Santiburi Beach Resort & Spa in Koh Samui can secure its position as the island’s only member of Leading Hotels of the World.

Right: You have a chance to rediscover Santiburi: a wide crescent of golden sand, its warm, calm waters are perfect for swimming, with light winds farther out providing excellent conditions for sailing.

ics in the gentle surf.

The luxurious accommodation has been transformed into lodgings of tropical modern beauty … lavish, spacious … a home-awayfrom-home.

On the northern coastline of Samui, Mae Nam beach is one of the island’s most

sought-after beaches. The 300-metre stretch of secluded beach lies in the shade of a co-

conut grove, with sun lounges and umbrellas reserved for exclusive guest use.

A wide crescent of golden sand, its warm, calm waters are perfect for swimming, with light winds farther out providing excellent conditions for sailing.

Santiburi has occupied this picturesque shoreline for decades. The 23-hectare grounds bloom with tropical flowers and trees aged 100 years or more.

The renovations are nothing less than a rebirth of the entire resort, including a brand new state-of-the-art spa, a new lease of life for much-loved restaurants and some new surprises in the culinary and mixology departments.

Some highlights Further compelling reasons to rediscover Santiburi Beach Resort & Spa: • 300m of beachfront studded with more than 600 swaying coconut trees and a lush garden ranging over 23 acres with rare flowers and plants and a walking map for guests • Relax on Mae Nam Beach and play golf at one of Asia’s most scenic courses • Watersports heaven – and there’s no engines. Surfing, kayaking, sailing (hobi cat, hobi wafe, lvaser), swimming pool, fitness centre, volleyball, jogging track, cycling, billiards, darts, beach fishing, Thai boxing, cooking classes, yoga and Pilates … and the list goes on.

Draw a line in the sand - right here on Mae Nam Beach. It’s Samui’s best-kept secret … bright-blue seas, a gentle breeze off the bay … and you’re sure to have a memorable stay on this quintessential island paradise!

The mysterious immortals of the Himalayas From Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad. India INDIA is a land of heritage and history and with rich history comes along mysteries. Science has unearthed many secrets of this universe and explained so many things which were mystical and mysterious. Incredible India is covered with a web of mysteries that even science has no answers for. From odd temples to weird incidents, yetis of the Himalayas & mysterious men of the mountains, these mysteries will just immerse you in intrigue.

Himalayas have always been linked to mysteries because of its futile terrain and inhabitable climate. The world’s mightiest mountain range is a home to Gyanganj—a city of immortals and enlightened beings. Ancient Indian and Tibetan tales say that this place is city of mysterious immortal beings that cannot be discovered by ordinary men. These immortal beings are said to influence the world in various subtle ways (when required). It is also said that the city is so well camouflaged in a different plane of reality, that no modern mapping techniques and satellites can identify the place.

However, the immortal, enlightened sadhus and mahatmas that inhabit the place often let in visitors to share some of their wisdom with the outside world.

This is an incident of 1942 when the king of Kumaon invited an army officer of Western Command, LP. Farrel for a picnic trip to the hills. There was a special reason for inviting Mr. Farrel; in spite of his being a Britisher he was very much interested in Indian religion, philosophy and culture. He had a few opportunities of witnessing demonstration of miraculous feats of some Indian yogis. He had become a pure vegetarian.

That is why he always welcomed any opportunity to go towards the Himalayan wilderness, with the hope of meeting some saint or yogi who could initiate him into spiritual sadhana.

Mr. Farrel, the king and the queen and their entourage reached a place near Nainital full of natural beauty. It so enchanted them that they decided to camp overnight there. So, the dozens of tents were pitched and the lonely place got filled with the hustle and bustle of servants. Gossip, merriment, eating and drinking went on till midnight. Everyone went to bed and due to exhaustion of the whole day’s exertions, immediately slipped into deep sleep. The first phase of the sleep was hardly over when Mr. Farrel felt that there was someone near his cot. He woke up and clearly listened - “We need the place where your tents have been pitched. You vacate this place. If you are unable to understand, then you should come to that northwestern hill in front of you. I will explain you everything.” “But who are you?” – saying this Mr. Farrel got up from the bed and lit his torch. But there was no one. He came out of the tent but there too no one could be seen nor heard anyone’s footsteps. After a momentary fear he became normal and then went back to his bed again for sleeping. It was 3:30am by his watch.

Despite his best efforts he could not sleep. Somehow he was 28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

keeping his eyes shut. Again he felt someone’s presence. Still lying on the bed he opened the eyes and he saw a shadow of a person standing in front of him. This time again he uttered the same words. In order to identify that person, as soon as Mr. Farrel lit the torch, even the shadow vanished. His body started shaking and perspiring. This army officer who did not get frightened even by watching the horrible bloodshed in the war, momentarily got un-nerved and dumbfounded by mere imagination of a supernatural being. He lay awake in his bed with his eyes closed till the morning but heard nothing. A strange attraction was arousing within him to see the hill mentioned by the shadowy presence. He put on his clothes and shoes and silently came out of the tent and walked towards that hill.

Describing this incident Mr. Farrel has himself written: “The way to the place where I was directed to reach was very difficult, narrow and dangerous. I was not at all able to climb up by myself but I was constantly feeling that somebody was showing me the way and was providing me the energy to climb up. After a hard effort of three and a half hours I could climb up. It seemed difficult to go ahead due to heavy breathing and perspiration. So I sat down on a square stone, lying down on it to take some rest. Hardly two minutes had passed and the same voice awakened me. ‘Mr. Farrel! Now you put off your shoes and slowly climb down the stone and come to me. With these words in the ears, I looked around and saw that a saint, with very weak constitution but brilliant splendor on the forehead, was standing in front of me. Leave aside the acquaintance, I had never met or seen him earlier. Then how could he know my name? He was here, then how did his shadow reach in my tent in the night? There was no communication link like a radio or a microphone etc between us.

Then how could his voice reach me? Several such questions arose in my mind. Putting a stop to the unending trail of questions the sadhu said-whatever you have heard and seen cannot be understood by ordinary human mind. For this purpose one has to do long sadhana and the practice of yoga, abanwww.indiantimes.com.au

doning the worldly pleasures and attraction of the senses.

There is a specific purpose for which you have been called here.”

Farrel could not make out whether the saintly person was a human being or a god. The thoughts arising in his mind were being constantly read by that person like an open book. Mr. Farrel climbed down the rock and in a short time reached the place where the Sadhu was sitting. The place was so small that only one person could take rest there. There was nothing except the fire burning in the Dhooni (firepit).

Farrel further writes- “The Sadhu patted me on the back with his weak hand and I was stunned, how could this electricity like power be there in that old body. My body that was almost breaking with pain due to exhaustion - now seemed light like a flower. As a humble gesture of respect for him I knelt down and touched his feet. I had seen many sadhus; but I have always felt that sahdus and saints who had influenced Indian philosophy and increased its dignity were not those who were roaming around on the roads but they were truly such secluded and devoted persons only. Their physical bodies might weigh 80-90 pounds but intensity of their energy and power was more than that of thousand bombs and they were the storehouses of knowledge.”

The Sadhu told me - “I have inspired a youth to reach the place where your tents have been pitched. He was my disciple in his previous birth. His sadhana is half-completed. Now I want to guide him again to undertake his sadhana and penance for the universal welfare. But the memories of his previous birth are dormant. The impressions and circumstances of this birth are attracting him. Therefore he is unable to take up the sadhana again. I have called him through subtle inspiration. If he comes here and is unable to locate the directed place, then he will get confused. In that event, whatever I want will not become possible, therefore, please vacate that place immediately.”

Mr. Farrel said – “Lord! Please tell me also a few things about my previous birth “? The Sadhu replied-”My son!

These accomplishments are not for demonstration. They are meant for some special purposes and it is better they are utilized for that only. Of course, if you wish you can be present at the time when I show him the events of his previous birth.

Now you go. People are searching for you in the camp. I too am in a hurry.”

Mr. Farrel returned to the camp. Indeed, people had been searching for him. Mr. Farrel narrated the incident to the king.

They then left that place and pitched the camp some 200 yards away.

By the evening of that day a young man did indeed come searching for that place. After satisfying himself in all respects, he sat down there. In the meantime, Mr. Farrel also reached there. His curiosity was getting more and more intense as the time passed. In a short while sadhu too reached there. Mr. Farrel and the young man touched his feet and stood waiting for his instructions.

Continued next issue....

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Hindu Cultural Hub, Clayfield: Importance of Margasirsh (December) in the Hindu calendar Courtesy: Shankar Jayapandian THIS month of December – January, Danur masam of the Hindu calendar or Margazhi in Tamil Calendar (Margasirsh in Sanskrit) is considered very holy. As Kanchi Maha Periavar explains the significance of Margazhi.

He states, Margazhi is the short period just before dawn for Devas, for whom a human year comes up to one day. In other words, whole year of humans (12 months) is deemed to be just one day (24hrs) for Devargal. (Of course the numerical calculation are used just from the eyes of humans for our better understanding). So when we divide this human’s time frame of 12 month by Devargal’s time frame of 24 hrs, we get that every 2 hrs of Devargal is one month for us. Simply put, for each month we go through Devargal sees that as 2hrs past. And this month Margazhi is the pre-dawn period for Devargal, the very early morning time. The time of awakening, the transit from the stillness and calm of the wintery night to a day of meaningful activities.

The period just before dawn is this month of Margazhi and is therefore very sacred and it is common for all to visit the temples and sing Tiruppavai, Tiruvenbavai and Thirupalliyezhuchi in an intention to rouse the latent spiritual powers in every one of us. A time to realise we are not just human being having a spiritual experience, but we are spiritual beings having a human experience.

It is in this month, when the holiest Vaishnavite (People who worship Lord Vishnu) temple in Srirangam and the most sacred Saivite (People who worship Lord Shiva) one at Chidambaram, have their most important annual festivals, Vaikunda Ekadasi and Aarudra Darshan, respectively, both celebrated before sun rise.

Arudhra Darisanam or Aarudra Darshan is

• Thiruvannamalai Temple in evening time from a birds view.

I acknowledge the author of this picture taken from http://arunachalagrace.blogspot.com.au/ 2007_12_01_archive.html

observed in this Tamil month of Margazhi. It is the celebration of the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, which is represented in the form of the Nataraja. The cosmic dance of Lord Shiva represents five activities, Creation, Protection, Destruction, Embodiment and Release.

In essence, it represents the complete cycle of creation to destruction. It takes place on the full moon night (along with Aarudra Birth Star). In the month of Margazhi this is also the longest night in a year. This year, Aarudra Darshan is on Wednesday, 11 January 2017.

Vaikunda Ekadasi happens about the same period in this month, which is one of the most important Ekadasis. On this day in Vishnu Temples the opening of the Vaikunda Dwaram or Swarga Vasal is an important event. This year, the date of Vaikunda Ekadasi is Sunday, 8th January 2017. In Aus-

tralia and New Zealand it is marked on January 9, 2017.

In Bagavadgita, Krishna himself says, “Masanam Margaseersho Asmi”. Which means, “Of all the 12 months I am Margazhi”.

Music is given immense importance during this month. Not coincidentally many cities in India has this ‘season’ for music and dance recitals. Notably during the month, Thyagaraya Aaraadhana is celebrated in Tiruvaiyaru, in Tanjavur district, Tamil Nadu.

Tiruppavai, Tiruvenbavai and Thirupalliyezhuchi are are considered a masterpiece by all devotees. These are sung in Temples early morning every day in the month of Margazhi. Aandal’s Tiruppavai and Manikkavasagar’s Tiruvenbavai and Thirupalliyezhuchi chants are very common in all

New Year, New starts Karma - Action.... and renewals

By Celine Goh, Features Writer I MUST say that I’m excited for I’ve just organised for 6 of our friends to get together after a 20 year lapse! The last time we got together was such a memorable event that it was etched deep in my memory. We had gathered in the café of the now demolished InnOn-The-Park over light refreshments.

As the conversation rolled on, the energy and the vibes flowed on ... we were on sync with every syllable, every idea, every wise crack, every pun caught on and bounced from one person to another! It was akin to a verbal football, a creative repartee where wit gave birth to another witty response and we cracked up. Throughout the whole afternoon, the sound of laughter rang out and it stayed with me, bolstering me up on my down days. I’m truly excited to see this great bunch again this Sat 7 Jan 2017 for a sumptuous buffet lunch for more of the good times!

After all, isn’t that what the New Year brings in?

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Togetherness with our family and friends, building firmer bonds with whom we wouldn’t want the bonds to be broken at all, saying “sorry” to those whom we unwittingly clashed through some misunderstandings.

Fresh beginnings, firm commitments, sincere promises to better oneself this year … these are what many of us strive for at the start of the New Year.

Josephine did just that. She was disappointed during the final weeks of 2016 over a matter precious to her heart and in her frustration sent an email to the person overseeing the project. The situation exploded in the flurry of e-mails and subsequent explanations which pointed to a big misunderstanding of the situation. It left gaping wounds in the strained friendship of both parties even though a cool façade of cordiality was maintained. Josephine resolved to do what she needed to … she went to see her sparring partner and sincerely apologised for the tumultuous episode. Like rain that clears the dank air, a freshness rose with the extension of goodwill, realising that their friendship remained at the pinnacle of importance in their lives. That night Josephine slept soundly and her genuine smiles returned with the strains and tensions disappearing from her whole being.

She knelt in Church and thanked God for being the 3rd person, the spirit of love and forgiveness that binds us together.

Josephine had wiped her slate clean for the New Year … have you?

THE Sanskrit term Karma is derived from the root word “Kri” which means to do. The literal translation of Karma is “action” or “deed”. The word Karma is normally used in Indian languages to express its verbatim meaning. However in Hindu Scriptures, Karma has been used with varying connotations.

The Karma of a person produces a consequence that can be good or bad. Normally, the effect of Karma is experienced in the current life. However, it has been observed that despite performing socially accepted good Karma, some people suffer while others performing bad Karma thrive.

This anomaly is explained through the concept of the relationship between Karma and Rebirth.

According to this idea, Karma from the current life determines Rebirth and “Moksha”. Moksha is freedom from the cycle of birth and death, which is the spiritual objective of a Hindu.

In the Vedas, the term Karma relates to the performance of rituals and religious duties, specifically actions that are normally expected from an observant Hindu.

The Hindu Scriptures describe in details the effect of good and bad Karma on a person’s existence after his or her death, and the link between Karma, Rebirth and Moksha.

For example, the Svetashvataropanishad 6.11 declares that the supreme God presides over the Karma of all living beings.

The Brihadaranayaka Upanishad 4.4.2 describes effects of Karma on the process that ensues after death.

The Swargarohan Parva of the Mahabharata and Uttarkand Doha 120-121 of Ramcharitwww.indiantimes.com.au

temples is south India during this month.

Tiruvenbavai is a part of Thiruvasagam recited by Manikavasakar in praise of Lord Shiva. In the tradition of people who worship Lord Shiva, the Saivite conventional custom, there is 12 Thirumurai which is 12 volume compendium of songs and hymns in praise of the God. This Thiruvasagam is the 8th Volume or 8th Thirumurai, Tiruvenbavai is one among 51 verse in the entire composition of Thiruvasagam and has 20 individual songs.

Lord Shiva is praised in Tamil language by many names, one of them is Athiraiyan, Thiru + Athirai is how we got the day Thiruvathirai.

During the month of Margazhi 10 days before Thiruvadhurai day or otherwise called Arudhra Darisanam in every temple only Tiruvenbavai will be sung. The entire 12 Thirumurai will be divinely locked and kept aside as a sacred measure to maintain the sanctity. This shows the importance and reorganisation Tiruvenbavai is given. Many who are reading this article will know a lot more and better than me. Scholars will be able to give an in depth meaning and interpretation to this beautiful verse.

Tiruvenbavai is an early morning journey of young girls waking up other girls from deep sleep and going to the temple. The underlying implication is that every living soul is considered as a feminine energy form that looks to the masculine creator on this journey. As we read this Tiruvenbavai one form of our energy awakes initially and wakes up other energy with us to the ultimate awakened state which is Mukthi or Moksha. The 20 songs in Tiruvenbavai is the stunning portray of continues journey of awakening and that’s the word each verse ends with, awake.

This Tiruvenbavai was recited in the temple town of Thiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu.

manas provide vivid descriptions and examples of the effects of good and bad Karma on the Afterlife.

Shreemad Bhagavad Gita presents a detailed discussion on Karma, its various forms and the importance of performing prescribed duties, according to the person’s status in society, and stage of life, in specific situations.

Importantly, the Karma is to be performed without attachment to the results, as highlighted in verse 2.47 of the Gita. It states “You have a right to the performance of action alone; its fruits are never within your control. Do not perform an action with an eye to its fruits, nor should you desire to avoid action.”

It encourages a person to engage in action recognising the fact that without it, Purushartha or objects of existence cannot be achieved.

Performing action is a natural obligation, similar to seeing, hearing and breathing. In the Gita, the focus is on the effect of performing Karma in the current life and union with the Supreme God. Karma as Karmayoga is identified as one of the means of uniting with the God. Different schools of Hinduism have their own interpretation of Karma and hence the term embodies different meaning to followers of different religious traditions. Indian-origin religions have adopted Karma in their spiritual treatise and interpreted it according to their customs.

Despite philosophical differences in interpretation, all schools recognise that a person is required to perform good Karma for his or her material and spiritual wellbeing in the current life and in the Afterlife.

The balance of residual good

and bad Karma, whose results have not been fully spent by the person in his or her current life, impacts on their Afterlife. It determines the species in which the soul of the person will take birth and the quality of life that body will enjoy after Rebirth.

It is necessary to differentiate between the Soul and physical Body of a living person. After death, the physical body assimilates with the constituent components from which it is made. The soul, as the spiritual element of the body, attains Moksha or another form of life.

With sufficient good Karma, a person’s soul may attain Moksha and thus becomes liberated from the cycle of birth, death and associated sufferings. As noted earlier, if the Karma of a person is not enough to lead to Moksha, he or she is rewarded or punished by birth into a species according to their Karma.

This concept leads to the belief that human beings as well as other species experience good or bad events in their life due to the combined effect of their Karma in their previous and current lives.

Karma in association with the concept of Rebirth becomes a potent force. Many people mistakenly equate it with destiny.

However, equating Karma with destiny, and making it an excuse for not engaging in actions, is a misinterpretation of the spirit of Karma.

Performing good Karma has been an important objective of Hinduism to make a person’s life fulfilling. The whole concept of Karma is directed towards inspiring people to do good Karma, which is their divine duty.

More information on Hinduism will follow in the next edition of BIT. Awadhesh Sharma

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 29

2017 story....

writes; I am bringing all my energies to bear on one thing: forgetting the past… I strain to reach towards the goal. Only by letting go of the past you can bring all energy together for the race in 2017. If you holding on to unforgiveness, bitterness and self pity these are like a dead weight causing you get tired quickly and quit race.

By trusting in the Author of life Jesus Christ, we can press forward. In fact God is promising to guide our journey to success. We need to believe His Word and live according to His will. His word has never failed for every gen-eration that has completed their race.

From Abraham to David and from Mat-thew to John, God loves to see you win the race.

All YOU need a simple faith that moves you to a simple actions. Step by step, you will see an invisible hand guiding you to success.

Pray, Dear God I believe Jesus is the author of life, teach me to run this race in your light and love. Open the eyes of my heart and let me find my true purpose in for my life in 2017. Amen

DEAR reader, it is our joy to bring ing, expecting then you will to you the word of God. 2016 has enter into your season of blesscome and gone. Some of us have ings and favour. been through a difficult 12 months.

There are 6 things that you can You may have been through some do to have great success in tough times. Your health wasn’t the 2017. best. The business didn’t work out Pastor Joseph Dass - Have a good vision how and the way you planned. The relationship was where you want to finish. You will not reach over. If you are not careful, you will experi- your destination if you don’t have one. ence some of the same pain you been through - Be a victor not a victim. Good and bad before. God already has blessed 2017. And things happen to all of us. Having a victim now the way you start this year will deter- mentality will hold you back, so you waste mine how much of God’s blessings and your valuable time blaming others and never favour you will see come to pass in this com- making progress. ing year.

- Do not become weak where God has made In the scriptures (Joshua 1) we read that God you strong. Being strong, courageous and fopromised the children of Israel a return back cused is a vital part of being successful. to their homeland, Israel. Joshua had been - Do not let go of opportunities that God is there before as a spy and was now leading presenting to you. Opportunities come to all them towards it. But after seeing the suffer- of us, God given opportunities always lead ing, the pain and the setbacks and finally the to success. death of Moses, he was feeling the pressure - Do not allow others opinions from moving to continue leading the people. God spoke to towards your goals and destiny. Not everyJoshua reminding him of his future victories, one is going to celebrate you, so stay clear of great breakthroughs, seasons of favour and discouraging, negative and pulling down protection, blessings, prosperity and success. words. Some people are just not moving to On Joshua’s part he had to be strong and where you are. courageous and live in obedience and agree- Do not speak words which God has not ment with God’s word, not allowing it to de- spoken over you. Mouth has a great purpose part from his mouth. And to speak the word to feed you. But it has even a greater purpose for himself, his future and where he was to bring health, restoration, prosperity, life, going. favour and success to you. The words you God never promised lack and failure to be speak can bring disappointments or success. your destiny, but the opposite. On Joshua’s The very places you send your words to, will part he could not let fear, disappointments, find you there. So watch what you speak. failures, discouragement and wrong opinions be part of his future.

God bless you. Have a great and successful Just like Joshua, God is saying your due sea- 2017. son is here. As you keep honouring, believ- Pastor Dass

Email to help you connect with Christ: navig8grace@gmail.com

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc

2017 Winning the race...

Key Scripture I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

- Phil. 3:14 DEAR Reader, welcome to 2017; I wish and pray a happy new year to you and your dear family. Life is referred as a journey because we are called to press towards the heavenly goal.

You are going to discover an amazing truth in this article that will help you run your race with Godly wisdom and grace.

If life is a journey and a race, think of an athlete who is preparing for a mara-thon race.

He plans is journey and trains hard and lives a very disciplined life style. Most importantly, if look at marathon race runner, he carries no extra weight. He wears bear minimum clothes and free of every other dead weight.

I order for you to run an enduring race in 2017, the Word of God teaches that we need to forget the past. Paul the apostle was a champion in the race he completed by trusting in God’s Word and Holy Spirit. So Paul

Jitendra Deo

Kavita Chandwani

President APSQ

Human body is divine creation of God

Tune in To AIR every Tues & Sun (8pm AEST & 3pm IST) to listen to Bhule Bisre Geet with Kavita

Of all living beings in the Universe, the creation of the human body is the supreme. On close examination it is clear that the soul cannot make the same amount of progress in any other body as it can do in the human body.

Apart from human beings all other souls in this world are in Bhog Yoni, in other words they are receiving the results of the actions of their previous lives and cannot make any spiritual development towards their future.

The human body is the only one that is both Bhog Yoni as well as Karam Yoni. In this body, mankind get the results of the previous lives while doing deeds, the results of which goes to their future. The human body is such, it develops intellectually, improves spiritually, and makes progress in life, which is for betterment of their future.

The soul cannot do such development in any other body. God has placed the head above the shoulders. He has placed the four sense organs which are the main instruments of knowledge, in the head. The brain has been set in the head. The soul has been placed here too. God has also given the power of speech through the mouth. The gift of intellect is also a wonderful gift of God. Through its development human beings acquire knowledge.

GOD has given human beings hands, legs and all other organs, which are great organs for progress. However if they use these for good purposes they can reach the peak of spiritual development.

The creation of the human body is a wonder

and every part of the body is extremely valuable. The world’s greatest wealth or treasures cannot exceed the value of any part of the body. If any part of the body malfunctions, then an artificial replacement may be made but cannot be same as natural element. One only appreciates the value and importance of a part of the body when its gone.

Vedic verses state that people should know God, realisation of God should be the goal in life. Due to lack of knowledge and ignorance mankind regard bodily nourishment, satisfaction of sense organs, acquisition of wealth, worldly love, living a grand life, acquisition of kingdom and living as families as being the ultimate goal. When one regards the body as everything then one spends one’s life looking after the body and satisfying the sense organs. Is only nourishment of the body the goal of life? Yes ,human beings must keep the body fit through healthy vegetarian food, exercise and self control, but only keeping the body healthy in this way is not the ultimate goal in life.

Let's not be preoccupied in simply gathering items of food and other consumables, nor should we be only busy in prayer and meditation every minute. We should nourish our body, collect food items, do the duties of the household, but not forget to improve spiritually through prayer and meditation to God. God has given this sitar like human body to us, so that mankind can decorate it as well as sing with it, nourish it and develop spiritually. Knowing God is great opportunity, and VEDAS contain not only the knowledge of God but also about meditation and prayer to GOD. Please contact Jitendra Deo 3273 3029 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or visit: www.aryasamajqueensland.com or facebook page for photos and updates

BIT FEBRUARY 2017 DEADLINES ADVERT BOOKING 28 January 17 / Email: sales@indiantimes.com.au Editorial / Photo Submissions 30 Jan 17 submissions not accepted after this date Email prod@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3865 6533 30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

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IMPORTANCE OF SALAT-O-SALAM (upon Prophet) DAROOD SHAREEF Prepared by Imam M. Aslam

All please to Allah (swt), the most merciful, the most gracious and the cherisher of all the worlds. Peace and blessing be upon the Beloved of Allah Ta’ala. I would like to take this opportunity to explain the significance of reading/sending salawat on our beloved Prophet Muhammad sallahu alayhi wa salam.

The excellence of Durood Shareef for the Ummah as explained in the Holy Quran and Ahadith The message of Allah Ta'ala to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) has come down to us in the form of the Holy Quran and the teachings of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) have reached us in the form of the Ahadith. Let us see what both the Holy Quran and Ahadith say about Durood Shareef (Salawat upon our beloved Prophet): "Innal llaha wa Malaa'ikatahu Yu salluna allan nabiyi.

Ya Ayyuhal lazeena aamanu sallu alaihi wasallimu tasleema." (Surah Ai-Ahzab, Verse 56) Almighty Allah says: "Surely Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim). O you who believe! Send Blessings (Durood) and Salutations (Salaams) on the Prophet with worthy Salutation". (Surah al-Ahzab: 56) In this verse of the Holy Quran, Almighty Allah, His Malaa'ikah and the Muslims have been mentioned as sending Durood(salatu o salam) upon Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim). So, Durood Shareef is actually "a Du'a in praise of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim)."

Hazrat Anas (radi Allahu anhu) narrates that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) said: "He who reads a single Durood upon me, Almighty Allah blesses him ten times, ten of his sins are forgiven, and he is increased ten times in stages (internally). (Mishkaat) Hazrat Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (radi Allahu anhu) also narrates that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) said: "On the Day of Qiyamah, the closest to me from among the people will be those who have read the most amount of Durood Shareef". (Tirmidhi) It is now evident that the recitation of Durood Shareef (Salawat) is in perfect obedience to the Divine Command and in complete conformity with the teachings of Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) of Islam. There is no scope to choose anything else when we have with us the words of Allah Ta'ala and His Apostle, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

The Commands of Allah Ta'ala and the Rasulallah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) to recite Salawat-o-Salaam is unconditional i.e. no where in Quran or Hadiths, Allah or His Messenger (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) mentioned in what position we have to send Salawat and Salam and how loud?. It is entirely up to believers in what position and volume he or she invokes Salawaat-oSalaam, whether while sitting or laying on bed/floor or standing still or walking, it does not matter. Since we respect our beloved prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) the most after Allah Ta'ala, it is the demand of this respect that we stand up and send Salat-o-Salam to the Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) What is Durood Shareef and the importance of Durood Shareef?

Divine blessings on Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) is the highest and the most meritorious act in our Deen. This "Divine Blessings" is called Durood Shareef.

When Almighty Allah sends Durood and Salaams upon Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim), He is actually blessing him. When the Malaa'ikah and the Muslims send Durood and Salaams to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim), they are actually showing Almighty Allah their respect for the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

Muslims hope that, through the blessings of the Durood and Salaams, Almighty Allah will forgive them of their sins and increase their status in this world and in the Aakirah. The Malaa'ikah hope that Almighty Allah will increase their status.

Durood is a sure means of Allah Ta'ala granting blessings, peace, prosperity and favours of great magnitude on one who recites Durood Shareef on the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim). The reciter of Durood Shareef receives all the benefits in this world and utmost gain in the next world with addition to the love of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

The invocation of Blessings on the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) is styled in Arabic as "Salawat", in Persian as "Durood", and in Urdu as "Salawat-oSalaam".

The regular recitation of Durood Shareef on Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) lifts up our hearts on to a plane of comprehension where we gaze in our new found peace and moral armour.

The reciter of Durood Shareef will, after some time, come to realize by himself that it is the spontaneous outpouring of his heart before the Great Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) of Islam, whose love and attachment is needed to get all the present day problems solved and obtain mercy in the next world.

The more Durood Shareef we recite, the greater the gain and benefit will be achieved in both the worlds. Hazrat Shaikh-e-Akbar Mo'inuddin ibn Arabi (radi Allahu anhu) has stated that, "Those who claim to love and revere the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) should increase their recital of the Durood Shareef in patience and perseverance until, through the mercy of Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim), they have the opportunity of witnessing his blessed countenance".

The special and exclusive aspect of this prayer is that Durood Shareef is immediately accepted by Allah Ta'ala.

No one can doubt its acceptance, as Durood Shareef is being recited by Allah Ta'ala too. Not only this, but He has revealed this secret in the Holy Quran by saying: "Wara fa'na laka zikrah " (Surah Al-Inshirah, V-4) ."

Translation: “And We have exalted for you your remembrance” Moomineen are a very fortunate people. Allah Ta'ala chose for them the name of Deen as a religion, declared to be comprehensive and final for mankind. The person chose to deliver this message in this specific form and extra-ordinary style of love and hope was the most beloved of Allah Ta'ala and became the Light of Divinity to be shed upon the entire universe. This Light devastated

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all the domains of darkness and depression. By reciting Durood Shareef (Salawat) we invite Light and drive away all darkness from our inner soul. Our mind becomes soft and love saturated. If there is softness in everything, it tends beauty to it. People become ugly owing to lack of this essential beauty of the inner part of the mind. This ugliness cannot be glossed over by any amount of cosmetics. It is the Durood Shareef on the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) which works wonders.

In the same manner, the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) taught us Durood Shareef to attain salvation, perfect peace and maximum gain in this world as well as the next. The soul is the soil where the faith of Allah is to be implanted firmly and faithfully which requires continuous recitation of Durood Shareef to thrive and flourish.

We have been told by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) that Durood Shareef is itself Light and when Light enters the soul every aspiration is achieved and every goal is won. Nothing remains thereafter to worry about.

Human spirit today is depressed everywhere and mankind has come to the edge of destruction, decay and devastation. Everyone is engulfed in untold miseries and tragedies of a very great magnitude. Troubles and tortures, pain, poverty, hunger, ill-health, frustrations and accidents have broken the back of a human being. All this can evaporate with the recitation of Durood Shareef on the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) who has clearly proclaimed that Durood Shareef is the panacea of all ills and that if any one comes across a calamity he should recite Durood Shareef in the maximum number.

Allah Ta'ala has promised that if anyone recites Durood only once, He showers ten blessings on the reciter immediately, thanked Allah Ta'ala and immediately began reciting Durood Shareef on the Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

From the above fact it is quite clear that Allah Ta'ala has given orders even to his Ambiya to recite Salawat on the last and final Prophet of Islam, and that Durood Shareef is not only panacea and a solution to the ills of this world but in the next too.

The highest blessings which Islam has conferred on man is the concept of Tauheed or Unity of Allah in its purest form. This has been furnished to mankind through Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim), the last of the Prophets. It is a cardinal duty of every Muslim man and woman, young and old to entertain the highest respect, regard, love and esteem for the Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) and his family. It should be clear that obedience to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) is always to be charged with intense love and highest regard for him, for it is through love and esteem that truth can be comprehended and communion with the Creator can be vouch-safed. In fact, love is the motive force, reverence dissolves and implicit obedience to the Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) which is the natural outcome. It is therefore incumbent on those who love him, to pray to Allah Ta'ala and His Angels in wishing for him peace according to the Divine Command. This will reshape the life which is otherwise infested with turmoil. The reciter will get countless and matchless benefits in both the Worlds and can claim to be the lover of Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

As Muslims we should recite Durood Shareef in the Arabic language. Islam seeks to create a unified outlook and it is in the Arabic language alone which welds all Muslims into one great brotherhood. Besides, Arabic is the language of Heaven, it is the language of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim), it is the language of the Angels and it is the language of Hazrat Abu-Bakr, Hazrat Umar, Hazrat Uthman and Hazrat Ali (radi Allahu Anhumma).

The daily recitation of Durood Shareef has a tremendous effect on the human head, heart, mind and person. It purifies thoughts and intensifies actions. It makes passages for perfect peace and personal satisfaction.

The excellence of Durood Shareef as explained in the Ahadith "Hadith" is an Arabic word which means "Holy Sayings".

It is the narration of all the affectionate words of advice uttered by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) from time to time. These sayings (Ahadith) are instructions offered for the guidance of mankind, and to follow them is as important as daily prayers.

The famous books of Hadith are the following: Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud, Muwatta, Nisaai', Ibn-Majah, Darmi, Baihaqi and Miskhaat Shareef.

Imam Bukhari (radi Allahu anhu), the compiler of Bukhari Shareef, took the greatest and painstaking precautions in making his collections of Ahadith and exerted to his utmost to achieve all accuracy and reliability as possible. Hence, Ahadith quoted by Imam Bukhari (radi Allahu anhu) and his work on Ahadith stands as one of the wonders of intellectual achievement in Islamic History. He wrote all Ahadith in the sacred Haram of Madina Munawwarah. It is, therefore, that most of the Ahadith have been taken from the book of Bukhari Shareef.

Important Ahadith of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim)have been included here for the betterment, benefit guidance and gain of the readers of this book. If followed, the reader of these sayings will receive a permit to Paradise even in this world. Every saying opens door to Divine favour and sure success.

• For every Durood Shareef that you recite, ten sins are forgiven, ten good deeds are entered into your sheet of actions and ten position are upgraded.

• Allah showers ten blessings on the man who recites a Durood. 3. The first man who will meet the Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) on the Day of Judgement will be that person who had recited the Durood maximum number of times in his life time.

• Those who recite Durood in maximum number will be nearest and dearest to the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) in the next world.

• If any one is involved in a difficulty then he must recite countless number of Durood Shareefs.

• Reciting Durood Shareef eradicates poverty and hunger.

• Reciting excessive Durood Shareef brings purity.

• Reciting maximum number of Durood Shareef is full compensation of all sins.

• Any one who recites excessive Durood Shareef in this world will be safe and sound in the next world.

• When a prayer is made to Allah it is never accepted unless praise of Allah Ta'ala and Durood Shareef on the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) is first of all recited.

• Those who recite Durood quite often will see Divine Light on the dark Day of Judgement.

• Three persons will be under the cool shade and the favours of Allah Ta'ala on the Doom's Day. One who kept the Holy Prophet's (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) Sunnah alive, one who removed difficulty of a fellow being and one who recited maximum number of Durood Shareef in his life time.

• When you forget anything and your memory fails to recollect it, then recite Durood, you will remember the forgotten thing.

• Reciting Durood in this world is rewarding in the next.

• The reciter of 10 Duroods in the morning and 10 in the evening will receive the help(shafaat) of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) on the Day of Judgement.

• One who recites Durood Shareef near the shrine of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) is heard by him there and then alone.

• Any one who recites Durood is just as one who purchased a slave and freed him.

• Any one who wants to meet his Allah with a happy face must recite countless number of Durood Shareef.

• Reward equivalent to a big mountain (Uhud) is given to one who recites one Durood.

• All people will be presented to the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) with their habits, natures and distinct manner, so it is obligatory for a man to recite maximum number of Durood.

• Allah is Great and Almighty to forgive all sins of the reciter during the day and night when he recites Durood Shareef.

• If any one meets in a tragedy, he should recite Durood Shareef in countless numbers.

• Reciting Durood is like giving something in charity.

• Reciting maximum number of Durood kills all hardships.

• Recite Durood Shareef in countless number on Friday, as it is presented to me (the Holy Prophet).

• Anyone who recites Durood will overcome all their troubles.

• If the name of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) is mentioned and one who hears it but does not recite Durood Shareef, understand that he has forgotten the path to Paradise.He is a miser.

• I pray for all those who recite Durood on me", said the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

• If any one recites Durood Shareef from any place, any part of the world from any distance, it actually reaches the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) immediately. Allah Ta'ala has appointed several Angels who are given exclusive duty to collect all Durood Shareef and present the same before the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) immediately.

• Angels of Allah shower 70 blessings on a man who recites Durood once.

• Whenever you hear the call of prayers (Azaan) you should recite Durood.

• Wherever you are, from any quarter of the world, you must recite Durood as it reaches the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

• any one who hears the name of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) and does not recite Durood on him will not see the beautiful face of Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) on the Day of the Judgement.

• Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) reports that Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) said, "The real miser is he in whose presence I am mentioned and then he fails to recite Salat on me".

• The Durood Shareef that is recited by the person is written with a Golden Pen on a Silver tablet by the Angels.

The Angels then present this Durood Shareef to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) and proclaim, "O Habeeb of Allah! The son of such and such a person has presented this gift in your majestic court".

Respect that should be accorded when reciting the Durood Shareef Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) said: "Without doubt, there is an Angel of Almighty Allah whom Allah has given power to listen to the voices of all the people. Whenever any person reads the Durood Shareef, this Angel delivers the Durood Shareef to me. I then plead to Almighty Allah for the person to receive ten blessings for reading a single Durood Shareef". (Jami' us Sagheer) How should one recite the Durood Shareef? What should be the persons condition and the conditions of his environment? The following points should be taken into account when reciting Durood Shareef:• It should be read with utmost humility and respect.

• The clothes of the reciter should be clean and free from all impurity.

•The place where the Durood Shareef is to be read should be clean.

• It is more superior to be in a state of Wudhu while reciting the Durood Shareef.

• It is better to sit in the Tashahudd position as you would sit when in Salaah and recite the Durood Shareef with concentration and the respect due to it.

• If possible, one should have sweet fragrance around the place.

• The reciter should try and understand the meaning of the Durood Shareef.

• One should possess a clean and untainted intention. One should read with the sole intention of pleasing Almighty Allah and Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

• The person should not be involved in worldly talks.

• A person should try his level best to follow the example or Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

• When reading Durood Shareef, you should try and imagine that you are sitting in the august presence of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

Utmost respect and reverence should be displayed.

• Whenever one hears or recites the Durood Shareef, it should be read and written in full. It is also preferable to kiss one's thumb and rub them over one's eyes when hear-

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ing the name of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim).

• When the reading of the Durood Shareef is completed one should praise Allah Ta'ala that he has given you the opportunity of reading such a great Zikr as the Durood Shareef.

• Whenever one takes the name of the Holy Prophet (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim), one should use titles of respect and reverence.

• As an advantage one should count on one's fingers as Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sall Allahu ‘alaihi wa Salim) often encouraged this practice because on the Day of Qiyamah those same fingers will bear witness at the time when they are questioned.

• Recite Durood Shareef wherever you are (not in the bathroom or toilet) and during any occasion.

Benefits of Reciting Salaat-Salaam (Durood Shareef) Listed below are some of the many benefits a person receives by reciting Durood Shareef: • Almighty Allah sends ten mercies upon a person who recites Durood once.

• Ten of his sins are forgiven.

• The person’s rank is raised by ten degrees.

• Ten rewards are written for him.

• There is acceptance of Dua where Durood is recited at the beginning & at the end.

• The person will be blessed with the intercession of Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

• Almighty Allah will forgive his sins.

• Almighty Allah is pleased with him.

• The person will be nearer to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) on the day of Judgement.

• The person will have all his worries removed in this world and the hereafter.

Hadith recorded in Tabrani on the authority of Abdullah Ibn Abbas Abu Hurairah Radiallahu anhu reports that the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)) said, “Whoever recites the following Durood eighty times immediately after Asr Salaat on Friday, before standing up from his place, Allah will forgive eighty years of sins and grant him the reward equivalent to eighty years of worship.”

(Allahumma salli alaa muhammadinin nabiyyil ummiyyi wa-ala aalihi wasallim tasleema) Translation: O Allah bless Muhammad, the unlettered Prophet, and his family and grant them best of peace.

Hadith recorded in Jame Sageer on the authority of Abu Hurairah Virtues of reading Darood Shareef…… To send blessings on the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is one of the highest and most praiseworthy acts in our Deen. This “Divine Blessing” is called Darood Shareef.

In the Holy Quran, Allah (SWT) says: “Surely Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), O you who believe! Send Blessings (Darood) and Salutations (Salaams) on the Prophet with worthy Salutation”. (Surah al-Ahzab: 56) Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Mas’sud (RA) narrates that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: “On the Day of Judgement, the closest to me from among the people will be those who have read the most amount of Darood Shareef”. (Tirmidhi Shareef) This salatu salam is read at the end of programme collectively in the Aqeedat o muhabbat of our beloved prophet.

Salatu- o- SALAM şallalLahu ‘ala Muhammad ALlah’s blessings be upon Muhammad, şallalLahu ‘alaihi wa sallam ALlah’s blessings and peace be upon him. ţala ‘al badru ‘alaina The full moon has risen over us, min thaniy-yatil wada` From the mountains of al-Wada`, wajaba ashukru ’alaina We shall ever give thanks for it, ma da’a lilLahi da’ As long as there will be callers to ALlah. ya nabi salamu `alaika O Prophet, Peace be upon you, ya rasul salamu `alaika O Messenger, Peace be upon you, ya habib salamu `alaika O Beloved, Peace be upon you, şalawatulLahi `alaika The Blessings of ALlah be upon you. ashraqa al-badru ‘alaina The full moon has risen over us, wakhtafat minhul buduru Eclipsing all other moons, mithla husnika ma ra’aina Such as your beauty we have never seen, qaţţu ya wajha asururi No, never, O face of delight! anta shamsun anta badrun You are a sun, you are a full moon, anta nurun fawqa nuri You are light upon light, anta iksirul wujudi You are the quintessence of existence, anta mişba huşuduri You are the lamp in every breast. ya habibi ya Muhammad O My beloved, O Muhammad, ya ‘arusal khafiqayni O bridegroom of the East and the West, ya mu’ayyad ya mumajjad The one ALlah vindicated and exalted, ya imam al qiblatayni O Imam of the Two Directions! ya nabi salamu `alaika O Prophet, Peace be upon you, ya rasul salamu `alaika O Messenger, Peace be upon you, ya habib salamu `alaika O Beloved, Peace be upon you, salawatulLahi `alaika The Blessings of ALlah be upon you.

Me woo sunni hoon jamille-Qadri mernay ke baad Mera lasha bhi kaheyga Aasalat o wassalam.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 31

Five principles to live by for a healthier 2017 THE modern world has given us all sorts of incredible things: modern plumbing, for example; an internet full of cat videos; homedelivered food and multiple forms of social media that allow us to stay in touch with friends around the globe.

In all sorts of ways, the modern world is pretty awesome, except for this one problem: when given access to all this technology and science, human beings have a tendency to start behaving in ways that aren't particularly great for our long-term health.

Easy access to cheap takeaway and processed foods means our diets are high in sugar and salt, with less of the nutrients we need to keep our bodies running. Our use of cars, computers, and televisions mean we’re spending more time in a chair, being sedentary in ways our bodies weren't designed for.

We consume too much energy in the form of kilojoules, and tend to burn off too little of it over the course of our daily life.

This isn't a call for you to immediately go on a diet and hit the gym every week - being healthier doesn’t mean making a radical transformation of the way you live your life.

Nor is it a diatribe against the internet, imploring you to spend less time in front of the screen - modern technology is great and the internet is awesome. You can totally have an iPhone and a Netflix account, and still live a healthy life.

But if you’re interested in living a healthier life in this particular section of the 21st century, it needs to be an active choice on your part. We've put together some basic principles to live by, based upon the most prevalent

stats and myths. All five are aimed at combating the core problem: modern technology can mean we eat poorly and we move around less, and living healthier means doing things to combat that.

So if you want to start shifting your focus towards living a happier, healthier life in 2017, here are five principles you can live by that will start you down the right path.

Principle 1: Eat more fruit and vegetables Current dietary recommendations suggest eating 2 serves of fruit and 5-6 serves of vegetables every day.

That advice hasn’t changed since you were in primary school, but statistics show that most of us just aren't eating enough fruit and veg. In fact, there's pretty good odds you’d struggle to name what “a serve” of vegetables actually looks like, let alone consume enough to meet that daily requirement. Current statistics show that only 7% of Queensland adults and 4% of Queensland children are eating the recommended 5 serves of vegetables every day.

Dietitians around the state just curled up in a ball and whimpered at those stats. And so, your first step when it comes to living healthier is upping the consumption of plant matter.

Look for ways to eat more fresh fruit, and the whole rainbow of vegetables (remembering that deep-fried chips don't count).

It's also handy to take a couple of minutes to really nail down what a serve of fruit and vegetables looks like, so you know exactly what you’re working towards.

Principle 2: Eat fewer discretionary

Benefits of Lemon

By Mazhar Sayeed LEMON is rich in vitamin C and it increases immunity and has antibiotic and anti-fungal properties. Capable of dissolving Kidney stones and stones in any other internal organs associated with food, this is a natural remedy to dissolve Kidney stone.

Lemons are Vitamin C rich citrus fruits that enhance your beauty, by rejuvenating skin from within bringing a glow to your face.

One of the major health benefits of drinking warm lemon water is that it paves way for losing weight faster, thus acting as a great weight loss remedy.

Lemon water flushes out toxins and is extremely beneficial for the body.

Warm lemon water serves as the perfect ‘good morning drink’, as it aids the digestive system and makes the process of eliminating the waste products from the body easier. It prevents the problem of constipation and diarrhea, by ensuring smooth bowel functions.

Nutritional value of Lemons A glass of lemon juice contains less than 25 calories. It is a rich source of nutrients like calcium, potassium, vitamin C and pectin fiber. It also has medicinal values and antibacterial properties. It also contains traces of iron and Vitamin A. Lemon, a fruit popular for its therapeutic properties, helps maintain your immune system and thus, protects you from the clutches of most types of infections. It also plays the role of a blood purifier. Lemon is a fabulous antiseptic and lime-water juice also works wonders for people having heart problems, owing to its high potassium content. So, make it a part of your daily routine to drink a glass of warm lemon water in the morning and enjoy its health benefits.

16 health benefits of drinking warm Lemon water 1. Lemon is an excellent and rich source of Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that protects the body against immune system deficiencies.

2. Lemons contact pectin fiber which is very beneficial for colon health and also serves as a powerful antibacterial.

3. It balances / maintains the pH levels in the

foods Discretionary food is the polite name dietitians use for foods that are energy dense and nutrient poor. They're called discretionary because these foods aren’t necessary for a healthy diet, but they may be enjoyable to eat thanks to the high concentration of sugar or salt in their make-up.

For those of us who aren’t dietitians, these foods tend to have very different names: biscuits; cakes; potato chips; hamburgers; icecream; bacon; chocolate and soft drink.

Basically, everything you start to imagine when you hear 'fast food,' or 'junk food,' or 'that thing I eat when I'm after a tasty treat,' and a whole bunch of foods you don’t even consider lumped on top of that.

Also, booze. Wines, beers, ciders and spirits are packed with kilojoules that come with very few dietary benefits.

Discretionary foods are not necessary for most people. If you choose to include some, limit to a single serve of discretionary food a day – the equivalent of approximately 2 scoops of ice cream OR 2 biscuits OR ½ small bar of chocolate OR a single glass of wine OR 12 chips from the local takeaway OR 1/3 of your standard meat pie.

You don't need to eliminate these from your life, but you should think about cutting back.

Many of us are eating significantly more discretionary foods than we should, with Australians making up 35% of their daily food intake from discretionary foods on average.

In fact, according to the 2011-12 Australian Health Survey, Aussies are blitzing through the daily kilojoules allotted to discretionary foods with just our average daily consumption of chocolate.

Discretionary foods are incredibly prevalent in today’s world and they’re cheaper and easier to access than at nearly any other time in history. They’re also easier to over-indulge in without even thinking, since they’re one of those places where 'a single serve,' rarely matches up with the portions we’re being sold or being served.

Here’s your rule of thumb going forward: if it doesn’t fit neatly into the five major food groups, it’s time to cut back on your weekly consumption or cut it out of your diet completely. You need to be mindful of what’s going into your mouth, and start looking for ways to swap out the less healthy options for food and drinks that better serves your longterm goals of living healthier.

Principle 3: Eat smaller portions body.

4. Having warm lemon juice early in the morning helps flush out toxins.

5. It aids digestion and encourages the production of bile.

6. It is also a great source of citric acid, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.

7. It helps prevent the growth and multiplication of pathogenic bacteria that cause infections and diseases.

8. It helps reducing pain and inflammation in joints and knees as it dissolves uric acid.

9. It helps cure the common cold.

10. The potassium content in lemon helps nourish brain and nerve cells.

11. It strengthens the liver by providing energy to the liver enzymes when they are too dilute.

12. It helps balance the calcium and oxygen levels in the liver. In the case of heart burn, taking a glass of concentrated lemon juice can give relief.

13. It is of immense benefit to the skin and it prevents the formation of wrinkles and acne.

14. It helps maintain the health of the eyes and helps fight against eye problems.

15. Aids in the production of digestive juices.

16. Lemon juice helps replenish body salts especially after a strenuous workout session.

Packed with all the goodness, make it a point to begin your day with a glass of warm lemon water. Its cleansing and healing effects will have positive effects on your health in the long run. However it is very important to note that when lemon juice comes directly in contact with teeth, it can ruin the enamel on the teeth. Hence, it is advised to consume it diluted and also rinse your mouth thoroughly after drinking lemon juice.

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

Our meals have gotten bigger over the last few decades. This means that even when we’re making smart choices about food, we’re often undoing that by eating too much – hitting your local restaurant or take-away can see you consuming your daily allowance of kilojoules in a single meal. Look out for the kilojoule information on takeaway chain menus (including online menus) to help you choose the healthier option.

On top of that, human beings aren’t great about setting boundaries on what we eat. If we’re given a plate full of food, we’ll assume it’s all meant to be eaten in one sitting, regardless of how much is there. If we’re given a larger than normal portion well, it’s better to eat it than let it go to waste, right?

Well, no. We tend to eat on instinct, particularly when we’re distracted by watching a movie or catching up with friends, so we’re not always mindful of how much is going into our bodies. Paying attention to what you eat is a big part of eating healthy, but focusing on how much you eat is just as important.

Serve up your food on smaller plates, and focus on entrees when eating out rather than ordering a larger main meal. If you’re hitting the local takeaway, be mindful of ordering meals - skipping the fries and ordering a diet drink might not seem like the healthiest choice, but it can make a big difference to the number of kilojoules you’re consuming.

The average daily energy intake for an Australian adult is 8700kJ so check how many kilojoules you should be aiming for using the daily kilojoule calculator.

Principle 4: Drink fewer sugary drinks You’re not going to be surprised to learn that soft drinks are pretty bad for you. Their flavour usually comes from sugar and a whole suite of artificial flavouring, which means they give you a massive amount of kilojoules and very little else.

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You may be more surprised to learn that sports drinks, juice, and flavoured milk can be just as high in kilojoules, which makes them similarily problematic as your go-to thirst quencher.

The list of reasons that sugar-heavy drinks and soft drinks are bad for you is long.

They’re bad for your teeth, thanks to the sugar and the acids they contain. They’re bad for you weight, since all that excess energy you’re bringing in is rarely burned off effectively. They’re bad for your diet, since the sugar gets processed quickly, and your hunger levels increase when you hit the inevitable sugar crash.

And, let us be clear: soft drinks are everywhere. Imagine trying to get through an entire day without seeing a bottle or can of soft drink. How many places would you have to avoid? Hell, would you even be able to open your own fridge?

It’s not just soft drinks that suffer from this problem. An average 600ml sports drink bottle contains nearly 10 teaspoons of sugar, right up there with the levels of a soft drink.

This can be useful if you’re replacing the energy lost by doing a marathon or an hour of high-intensity exercise, but if you’re not at that level of activity, then it’s just empty kilojoules that aren’t serving your purpose.

Cutting back on sugary drink isn’t easy. In fact, if you’ve been consuming soft drinks regularly, the constant hit of sugar means that your taste buds have come to expect that strong flavour from everything you drink.

Here’s the thing to keep in mind every time you reach for a sugar-heavy drink: it would take approximately an hour of jogging just to burn off the kilojoules in a single 600ml bottle of coke.

Principle 5: Sit less, move more It’s not about exercise. And no, we’re not trying to sucker you - this principle really isn't about hitting the gym or going for a run, not if that’s not your thing. But the human body is meant to burn energy: we consume that energy through food and drink, and it’s expended on things like keeping us alive, maintaining our balance, and moving us around.

The thing is, we used to move around a lot more before cars and trains, escalators, automatic washing machines and rider mowers.

A lot of modern technology has been created to take the effort out of doing things, from your morning commute to cooking a meal to climbing a flight of stairs, and that lack of movement also means you’re not burning as much energy as people did back before certain modern conveniences. Combine that with more energy coming in, courtesy of changes to our diets, and that excess energy becomes fat.

So it’s really not about exercise, but you do need to embrace the idea that something needs to be burning up those calories you're consuming. Since every bit of movement we do requires our muscles to burn energy, every bit of movement can make an impact on those excess kilojoules.

A walk to the water cooler on the other end of the building isn’t going to have the same impact as a one-hour run, but everything you do makes a difference. You can find all sorts of ways to add a little extra movement into your day – get a standing desk, or play in the yard with your kids, or make a point of getting up and walking around every hour when you’re watching TV. So your final principle involves focusing on all the little opportunities to do some extra movement, whether it's taking the long way around when walking or going up the stairs instead of taking an escalator. Use an app, watch or clip on a simple pedometer, you may be shocked at how few steps you take every day.

So that's what you've got to do, let's talk how With those five principles, you've got the basics of everything you need to start putting together plan to live a healthier life in 2017.

If you want some help figuring out how to implement them, head over to the Healthier.

Happier. website for great recipes, advice, and basic approaches to healthier living and free coaching tips. health.qld.gov.au Call 07 3865 6533

Health Beauty Wellbeing

Add shine to dry hair...

Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412 350 013

HEY Girls, wish you and your family Happy & Prosperous New Year. Today we will talk about managing healthy hair. Healthy hair has an outer layer that contains natural oil to keep it moist and shiny. When this layer is damaged – and this can happen due to several reasons – the hair begins to look and feel dull, unhealthy and dry.

Some of the reasons that can lead to dry, unhealthy hair are: * Illness or nutritional deficiency * Harsh shampoo or hair dye * A high mineral content in the water * Chlorine used in swimming pool water Whatever the specific cause for your dry hair, there are a few home remedies that can help you combat this problem.

Vinegar: Vinegar acts like a conditioner on dry hair; it also has the desirable effect of removing dandruff that may be contributing to the lack lustre appearance of your hair. Take about half a cup of vinegar and mix in 2 cups of water. Use this liquid as a conditioner after you have rinsed the shampoo out of your hair. Allow it to stay on for a few minutes and then rinse off completely with water.

Eggs: Eggs are rich in proteins, fatty acids as well as the fat-soluble vitamins and this makes them an excellent nutrient; besides, they also have a cleansing and conditioning effect, which means they can work wonders on dry hair. Collect the white of a single egg

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and mix in 3 tablespoons of water; apply this mixture onto your hair, leave it on for about 30 minutes and then rinse out thoroughly.

Eggs work even better in combination with a little vinegar and olive oil. Take the contents of 3 eggs, mix in a single teaspoon of vinegar and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix thoroughly to get a viscous liquid; apply this to your hair and cover the hair for about halfan-hour with a plastic cap. Wash out with a mild shampoo and water to get hair that has a healthy moisture content and a lively shine.

Another remedy that works well is eggs with almond oil and curd. Beat 2 eggs, mix in about 2 tablespoons of almond oil and half a cup of curd; stir to get a pasty mass and massage this into the hair and scalp. Cover with a plastic cap for about 30 minutes and then wash with warm water and a mild shampoo.

Vegetable oils: Dry hair often tends to get brittle too and this causes it to break easily.

Any vegetable oil – olive, coconut or almond

– can be used to moisturise such dry hair and give it strength. Warm a little oil to a temperature that feels comfortable to the skin. Then slightly dampen your hair and apply this warm oil all over. Cover with a warm towel and leave it on for about an hour. Use a mild shampoo to wash hair and when the hair has dried, you’ll find it has a healthy look and texture. For a greater moisturising effect, mix in a teaspoon of honey into the warm oil.

Coconut oil in combination with curry leaves (karipatta) can also work wonders for dry hair. Drop in a few washed and dried curry leaves into a few tablespoons of coconut oil, warm for 2 minutes and when the mixture has cooled, massage it gently onto the scalp and hair. Cover with a warm towel for about 20 minutes and then wash with a mild shampoo.

equally well on hair too. Especially for those with dry hair, Aloe Vera treatment can help give a shine and soft texture that makes frizzy hair manageable. This moisturising effect on hair works even better when used in combination with other ingredients. For example, you can make a paste with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 4 tablespoons of Aloe Vera gel and 3 tablespoons of curd and leave this on your hair for about half an hour. Or, you could collect a few hibiscus flowers, grind to a thick paste and to 2 teaspoons of this, and mix in half a cup of Aloe Vera gel and one teaspoon of olive oil.

Tips * Along with these home remedies, you should also pay attention to how you handle your hair. Do you brush or comb hair when it is wet? This could cause hair to lose its strength, grow dry and brittle. * Shampooing hair very often to give it a squeaky clean feeling is also bad; it can deplete the natural oil present in the hair, making it dry and weak. * The hair dryer may be a boon to those hardpressed for time; but every time you blow dry your hair; remember that you are also paving the path for dry and brittle hair. Use the lower setting for the dryer, and use it sparingly to just get the moisture down a little from where it can dry naturally on its own. * With a few changes in the way you manage your hair and these home remedies, you can soon bid goodbye to your dry hair.

Aloe Vera: We all know that Aloe Vera is a great moisturiser for the skin but it works

Hope this will bring back shine to your hair.

Keep smiling. Nimisha

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 33

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Real Estate News What issues will effect the property market in 2017?

By Nerida Conisbee realestate.com.au

High demand, low affordability and the major banks raising home loan rates independently of the RBA have dominated property in 2016.

Let’s look at what to expect in 2017.

1. Global political uncertainty will affect Australia Brexit and Trump were quite possibly THE surprises of 2016. Expect the ramifications of both results to be felt across the global economy well into 2017.

While the impact of Brexit has been largely self-contained, no-one knows how the US economy will perform with Donald Trump as president. There is no doubt we’ll see this affect the Australian economy.

2. Banks won’t move with the RBA on rates In the current low interest rate environment, banks feel less pressured by the monthly decisions made by the Reserve Bank of Australia. In 2017 it’s feasible that they will continue to restrict lending by raising rates, particularly for investors.

Yet the RBA is likely to keep interest rates stable or perhaps even reduce rates early next year, due to other economic factors such as the surprise economic slow down we saw in the September quarter.

3. High demand is here to stay In 2016 the REA Group Property Demand Index reached the highest level recorded.

While this was partly due to a drop in the number of properties listed for sale, a surge in the number of people looking at properties was a key driver.

While demand is high nationally, conditions vary across the country. New South Wales and Tasmania are both incredibly in-demand markets, while Western Australia and North-

• Suburbs with good amenities are favoured by those seeking share accomodation.

ern Territory are seeing much lower levels of demand. We’ll see this trend continue into next year.

4. Buyers will find great opportunities in Perth The Western Australian economy is still growing, but at a far slower rate. House prices and rental rates have fallen and that’s unlikely to change quickly.

In any market, even low growth ones, there are always opportunities and Perth is no exception.

Overall prices are down, yet suburbs like Peppermint Grove and Swanbourne saw substantial price increases in excess of 14% in 2016 as buyers saw an opportunity to upgrade in an otherwise slow market.

With the market nearing the bottom in Perth, buyers should see some great opportunities to invest in 2017.

5. Over development will hit some apartment markets

Shared living on the rise new data reveals

Clearly, not all apartment markets are challenged. However, unprecedented levels of development in Melbourne’s CBD and Brisbane’s CBD will make these the markets most likely to see price declines.

While good for affordability, the potential for price decreases isn’t great news for investors in these markets or for the banks.

Other CBD markets are seeing less development, however slow conditions in Perth are also causing concern.

6. Affordable options will shift demand With median prices continuing to rise across all capital cities, with the exception of Perth and Darwin, the drive for affordable housing is changing behaviour.

Tasmania has risen rapidly in popularity since mid 2015 on the REA Group Property Demand Index and is now seeing the highest levels of demand of all states and territories for all dwellings.

In New South Wales, central coast suburbs

are increasing in popularity, driven primarily by home buyers from Sydney looking for larger, more affordable homes.

In Melbourne, the outer east is also seeing increasing interest from home buyers, again driven by the relative affordability of larger homes on bigger blocks.

7. Popular locations for sharers are where you think The Gold Coast, inner-city Melbourne and Sydney’s inner west are the most popular areas in Australia for share accomodation, according to flatmates.com.au.

In these areas, the number of people looking to share far outstrips the number of listings.

Great amenities matter so good restaurants, bars, shops, and access to public transport are important to those seeking share accomodation.

8. China’s influence on Australian property is here to stay Demand from China for property in Australia remains strong.

Chinese developers and subsequently Chinese buyers, are increasingly linked to new apartment developments in our capital cities.

Changes in 2016 included a growing interest in Brisbane as well as house and land developments.

The most popular price points for Chinese buyers also changed, as many looked to more affordable markets.

Glen Waverley, which is often the top suburb with Chinese property seekers, has seen some of the strongest price growth over the past five years and a very high number of sales over $1 million. In Sydney, Chatswood has seen a similar dynamic.

As REA’s Chief Economist, Nerida provides opinions based on current market conditions. These opinions should not be treated as investment advice and you should obtain advice based on your individual circumstances.

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• Austin Blanchard, Yohan Madduma, Reighan Meise and Daniel Ha co-share an apartment at YWAM Townsville. Picture: Evan Morgan

By Lydia Kellner Townsville Bulletin Real Estate realestate.com.au SHARED living is no longer just a means for those moving out of the family home or for university students looking for cheap housing, according to recent data by Flatmates.com.au.

Figures from the flatshare listing site have revealed the median age of those looking to live in each suburb of Australia — with some surprising results.

Popular Townsville suburb Douglas, home to James Cook University, had the youngest median age of seekers at 21 years while Cabarita Beach, on the New South Wales Central Coast, had the oldest median age of those looking for a place to share in 2016 at 33 years.

According to realestate.com.au, 6 per cent of rentals in the Townsville greater region are located in Douglas, 37 of which are units and 77 houses.

Suitable share accommodation in Douglas start at $250 per week for a two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit at 35/92 Regatta Crescent.

Three-bedroom properties can be acquired between $290 per week and $400.

Call 07 3865 6533

With five bedrooms and two bathrooms, 38 Verhoeven Drive promises the biggest savings with a weekly rental price of $370 or $74 each, if divided among five people.

The data, based on 291,217 room wanted listings created on the site during 2016, also revealed the median age of someone seeking a share home nationally sat at 25.

Flatmates.com.au, Chief executive officer, Thomas Clement said the data dispelled the myth that only students or home leavers wanted to share homes. “Sharing is not just for university students or those moving out of home for the first time.� “On the Central Coast, for example, we see a number of semi-retired or retired persons wanting to share properties which in some suburbs has driven up the average age. “People have become more comfortable with sharing their homes with others, so we see a big age distribution of members from 18 to 80. The ‘share economy’ has definitely helped people realise there is value, lost or gained, in empty or unused space.� “Economic pressures have also played a part in forcing many to sharing homes to cut down on living costs.� www.indiantimes.com.au

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Astrology

www.ganeshaspeaks.com

2017 yearly predictions....

Aries - March 21 - April 20

You begin the year on an average note.

There may be mixed feelings all around.

Prevailing uncertainty may leave you somewhat unsettled. This may largely be related to your work sphere. You may feel that things are not going as planned. This may lead to anxiety. Blame it on Mercury’s retrograde movement. After end of the first week of January, though, things shall start falling in place.

At this time, conjunction of Venus and Moon in the 11th House from your Sign will see you in a dreamy, romantic frame of mind. So, overall there will be a contradictory pull in your life – at one point you may worry about future growth and progress, while at the other end, you may just wish to relax and feel the pleasures of love. You will do your best to maintain harmony in your personal relationships. The ruler of your Sign Mars will be in the 12th House from your Sign, at this time. This will remind you of your responsibilities on the domestic and occupational front.

In personal life too, you may feel pulled in different directions. Singles may be eager to start an intimate relationship. Enjoying romantic moments shall top your priority list. From around the mid of April, the planetary weather will remain favourable for love, romance and cozy moments, assures Ganesha.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22

You will begin the year in a cheerful mood.

However, owing to Mercury’s retrogression, there may be some lurking confusions, but you will be hopeful, thanks to your Sign Lord Venus’ effect. There may be a general unease in the matters concerning money and family.

Some questions on the financial front shall hold you back from moving ahead, though. You will need to review a few decisions taken earlier. Keep communication alive with people who matter.

From mid January, things shall get smoother in routine matters, and you shall be able to add some pace to your progress graph, assures Ganesha.

Personal life looks set to be happy, in general.

Domestic harmony in year’s earlier part will be endearing. However, you must learn to differentiate between true and fair weather friends, warns Ganesha. Distance yourself from people, who may be leading you to a wrong direction.

Do not get lured towards hedonistic tendencies.

Steer clear of vices like alcohol, smoking, binge eating/ drinking, excessive partying etc. Singles among you may get into a romantic relationship this year. Sparks may fly, and you may end up getting intimate with this person. Mid January onwards will be a supportive time for ones looking for love and sensual pleasures.

Venus, being your Sign ruler, and also that of the 6th House from your Sign will have a significant impact on your life. Its transits will play an important role in matters related to your career, business and personal life.

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21

Year begins on a good note, financially speaking. Conjunction of Venus and Moon, early in the year, may bring an important opportunity that will act as a game changer for your business/ professional life. Keep your eyes, mind and ears open, says Ganesha.

Business persons/ professionals involved in foreign trade/ offshore projects may gain aplenty.

Movement of Venus through the year, and position of Jupiter in the 5th House shall also affect your work life. Venus in direct mode shall work well, helping you succeed. Jupiter in 5th House from your Sign will enable and facilitate new projects, creative activities, innovative ventures etc.

However, there are likely to be some distractions, which may steer away focus from your goals and work. You shall be keen to enjoy the pleasures of life. Well do so, but refrain from going overboard.

Remain committed to your responsibilities, whether personal or professional, suggests Ganesha.

When all may be well in work domain, you may remain somewhat anxious, owing to troubles on the personal front. Do not become aggressive or entirely detached. Speak, but also listen, says Ganesha. And, if nothing seems to work, let the issue settle down for some time. Wait patiently (though it may not be easy) for things to calm down or turn in your favour.

Direct influence of Saturn over your Sign, during the year, does not spell well for matters related to day to day activities and personal life. Do not get carried away by emotions. Try your best to maintain peace and ensure a smooth running of routine affairs. Ongoing issues may get aggravated, around the period of retrogression of wily Saturn. Refrain from taking any drastic measures to correct things. Do not think negatively. Stay disciplined.

Cancer - June 22 - July 22

Planets portend significant improvement in your financial position. Benevolent Jupiter will present encouraging opportunities.

Similarly Venus will also work well in strengthening your position, in your chosen field of activities. It will also enliven your spirits. Handsome monetary gains are likely too. A sound financial position will prompt you to invest in real estate.

In personal life and relationships, the influence of Venusian movements will play an important role.

Singles will succeed in starting a serious relationship.

However, some issue in love relationship or otherwise may make you anxious. Retrogression of Venus may bring challenges. You will have to be strong, honest and calm to deal with the troubling winds, says Ganehsa.

Business persons and professionals shall have a good chance to strike profitable deals and start new projects. However, you must trade carefully during retrogression of Venus as well as Mercury (from 10th April to 4th May). Refrain from signing any agreement or legal document at this time.

Avoid litigations, and if there are any, try to settle them tactfully. Movement Saturn will present challenging situations in you day to day activities.

Coordination at work place will become difficult.

There will be regular constraints at workplace that will prevent you from performing effectively.

With regard to health, middle aged and above may get worried on experiencing symptoms of an old, seemingly cured health issue. Nagging issues like diabetes, irregular blood pressure etc. may also need to be handled with due care.

Leo - July 23 - August 22

Finance and family related matters are going to remain your main concern, during most part of the year. Expect yourself to come across an exciting offer on the work front, early on in 2017. More importantly, make sure you identify this opportunity. Nevertheless, the current course of your path is also likely to be progressive in terms of money, work satisfaction and success. The signals in this regard shall start to surface from mid-January. If planets in your natal chart are also supportive, the turn of events during the first quarter shall benefit you for a long time. This, in fact, can go on to be the most significant period in the year 2017. A new meaningful relationships may also take shape, foresees Ganesha. Singles shall have a pleasant and enjoyable time. Overall, it looks like there is something for everybody in the cosmic kitty - this year.

Challenges await you on the personal front, though. Situations may sometimes get on your nerves, making you want to speak aloud your point of view and assert your stand. Such emotional ups and downs will prevail significantly, post May. If you don’t want things to go from bad to worse, you will need to control temper and handle it all tactfully, says Ganesha. Be more understanding of others to improve your compatibility with them and sail smoothly. Few of your old relations will phase out, during the year ahead. You will subconsciously spend time and energy in building new relations. However, do not go all out in new relationships; rather maintain distance during initial stages, advises Ganesha.

Virgo - August 23 - October 22

An air of uncertainty may grip your psyche, as the year begins. This is going to make a perfectionist like you very uncomfortable. Moon in a dual Sign Pisces and the Ruler of your Sign, Mercury, moving in retrograde mode, according to Ganesha, are the prime reasons for this uneasiness. Luckily, you will not have to go through this for long. From January 2nd week onwards, things will start to fall in place. As you gradually regain your rhythm, future plans will become the main area of your attention. Saturn posited in the 4th House is to make you aware of the ground realities. You will have a realistic picture of your strengths and limitations.

You will take corrective steps in order to ensure successful completion of your plans. This may slow down your pace but Jupiter will ward off negatives and help you keep moving forward.

As for your finances, the year ahead looks set to be promising - with a certain rise in your earnings.

In all likelihood, you are going to invest in a new kind of venture. Well, the planetary alignment in your Natal Chart is going to play a crucial role in this regard. You have sufficient savings so you would want to make sound investments to make as much profit as possible during the course of time. While this is a good idea, just be sure that you do not invest a huge sum when Venus and Mercury are in retrograde mode. Venus turns retrograde from 4th March and moves direct from April-mid, whereas Mercury is going to be retrograde from 10th April to 4th May. Time during

retrogression of Mercury is a good period to review your strategy and take steps to improve your financial prospects.

Libra - September 23 - October 22

Growth is foreseen, but how well you cope with sudden changes and challenges will determine its impact on your life. Hone your skills to be more confident about them especially when the time comes to take up challenges. You need to go out of your comfortzone every once in a while to ensure progress.

Mercury, the planet related to communication and intelligence, is in retrograde mode, so avoid initializing a new project, be it on personal or professional front. But it does not mean you sit idle and wait for the planets to change their positions.

When the times are not very favourable, you should focus on reviewing your past decisions and making necessary changes. You may put your plans into action post mid-January.

You will sow seeds of a long-term, meaningful relationship. There is also a possibility of an old relationship getting stronger by the day. Don’t leave the relationship on its own, especially when Venus is moving in retrograde mode, as there may not be a smooth sailing all the way. If the relationship is in the initial stages, don’t lean on the other person too much. Give each other space to turn your bond into something really beautiful.

In relationship wherein you are emotionally attached, you are to have some problem/issue, leading to strain in relationship. Period from midMarch to May-end looks significant in this regard.

Scorpio - October 23 - Nov 21

It’s time to pull up your socks and strive for excellence. Your hard-work and persistence may not yield results immediately. Be patient and continue to do your best as you will soon see your efforts generating expected gains.

There will be distractions luring you to spend time on meaningless pursuits but you need to stay focused and ward off all the negativity. Stay motivated. During the last quarter of the year ahead Jupiter will enter your Sign making you more accommodating.

On the personal front, Venus will help your rebuild relationships and also help you initiate a romantic, long-term love affair. Be careful while selecting a partner and making your relationship more than just a fling. Those of you already in a committed relationship need to work hard to not let insecurities disturb your beautiful bond. Mistrust, fights and communication gap will damage your love life when Venus transits retrograde.

Don’t take your relationship for granted especially during this unfavourable planetary movement, says Ganesha. Spend quality time with your soulmate in order to maintain harmony in your relationship. Perform your duties up to the mark.

As for the business front, Ganesha advises you to do things methodically and be on track. Focus on local customers effectively. Networking and travelling will expand your customer base but you will need to improve efficiency to handle the rising demands.

Sagittarius - November 22 - Dec 22

Some challenges may be blocking your way, as the year begins. Let it all settle. Stay open and flexible. Matters related to occupation and personal life may come under the scanner. Saturn posited in your Sign aspects the 7th House (relating to day to day activities) and the 10th House (concerned with occupation/Karma).

This indicates hurdles, especially in day to day activities and relationship battles. On being busier managing these trifles, you may not have much time left for planning and starting any development-oriented activities. If this state of affairs continues, your long term prospects may get affected. Well, this is a yearlong trend, and you will have to brace yourselves to emerge triumphant out of this. If you stay disciplined and confident, you will beat it all, assures Ganesha. Worship Lord Shiva and meditate regularly to beat stress.

Ones in regular employments will have challenging time. Your equation with your boss as well as seniors may suffer. Even though, you will be motivated to perform efficiently, your boss/ management may seem to be on a fault finding mission.

This will make you anxious and tense. Well, try to ignore this, as it is hardly your fault. If you answer back, troubles will zoom. Don’t take anything to your heart. This trouble can be attributed to malefic Rahu’s placement. Relief comes from May onwards, when Rahu starts re-tracing its steps and moves to your 9th House. This may bring a fresh set of challenges, but at least, pressure to perform and looming confusions will ease. Business person will become busier trying to soar over routine hurdles.

Capricorn - December 23 - Jan 30

12th House is the House of Reckoning, the House of Unconscious, the House that prompts you to break away from what’s not right, the House of Losses or Wastes. Saturn stays in your 12th House for the whole year long, and keeps prompting you to look for new options, new changes and constant reflections.

Change of job or place of dwelling may be on your mind, through the year. Relocation too may be on your mind. You will not be happy with your current state, at least that’s what is definitive.

Going abroad is a possibility that you will consider seriously now. More than enhancing your prospects, it shall be about enhancing your ‘self’ that should work behind your motivations.

But, for 2017, things may not be very clear. At least, there may be no clear picture about future prospects, when the year begins. However, clouds of uncertainty will start dispersing from mid January itself. By the end of February, you shall start getting hints about what you want to do, and what you should do, feels Ganesha. From May onwards, things will get hectic, as you may be full on working on this new opportunity.

Aquarius - January 21 - Feb 19

The Ruler of your Sign Saturn is in optimistic fiery Sign Sagittarius, the 11th House (concerned with gains) from your Sign – for the entire 2017. This indicates that you shall have encouraging opportunities. But, the path will be strewn with hurdles and struggles.

Saturn, by nature, is not supportive of development and growth. Adding to this will be the malefic Rahu posited in the 8th House from your Sign. This may not allow you to gain, as envisioned. Ketu posited in the 2nd House also does not augur well for matters related to finances and family. You will need to manage your expenses very shrewdly.

On the positive side, the movements of Venus will help in facilitating opportunities for increasing earnings. Movement of Jupiter in the last quarter of 2017 will give a further push to your position in your career as well as on the financial front.

Career oriented professionals are in for a change in 2017. However, keep giving your best to your present assignment, till the last day at an old job.

Also, do not risk an existing job, lured wrongly by a tempting offer, which may not actually materialize later. Do not take risks and attempt changes, during retrogression of Venus. Have patience. In the year’s latter half you may get a good opportunity to change your job. If planets in your Natal chart are also supportive, there is a strong possibility of your relocation. However, you may have a challenging time remaining level headed and balanced. Some irritating, provoking situations may come up, prompting you to affect change, without giving thought to repercussions. Try to control this damaging tendency. If you play your cards right, growth in career is assured.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20

Mars rules your 9th House, the House of Fortune, and is going to be posited in your Sign at the beginning of 2017. As a result, you will be confident about your decisions, and shall take firm steps towards your goals.

There is a glitch, though. The Ruler of your Sign, Jupiter, is not favourably placed, and therefore, you will not have a strong support of this benevolent planet. Besides, Saturn is in the 10th House, the House of Karma. Such planetary alignment indicates that you will have to pull up your socks, if you want to achieve your goals. Be prepared to work overtime.

One or the other problem will keep popping up at regular intervals, disturbing your personal life.

Blame the presence of malefic Ketu in your Sign for this bumpy ride, says Ganesha. Luckily, from April-end things will start to go back to normalcy as Ketu shifts into Aquarius. At the same time, Rahu moves to Leo in the 6th House. The movement of Rahu and Ketu indicates that you will stand your ground whenever there is a conflict with near and dear ones. Your stubborn self may play an important role here.

To read your yearly predictions in full visit www.ganeshaspeaks.com

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.

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

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19 January 2017...

Brisbane Chapter Vedanta Centre of Sydney – Celebrating 155th Birthday of Swami Vivekananda – 10:30am to 1pm at 12 Greenwood Street, Springfield Lakes. Programme: Puja (worship), devotional Music.

Please bring a plate. All are welcome. For more information visit www.vedantabrisbane.org

20, 21 & 22 January 2017...

Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir celebrates a grand 3 days Murthi Pran Pratishtha performed by Dharam Guru Pt Tripathi Ji – Bhajans by Anuradha Paudwal & local artists.

Food provided – Lunch & Dinner every day.

A detailed program will be out soon! Golden opportunity to provide 1st Bhog to Shree Vishnu Bhagawan for the opening Sunday 22nd January 2017 – Sponsor $511. Food sponsor $300 or any donation is much appreciated. Please contact Dhiru Desai 0406 213 153 / Devika Maharaj 0424 891 159 or visit www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au

21 January 2017...

Pongal Festival 2017 – 3pm – 9pm at Robelle Domain Park, Education City Drive, Springfield. FREE Entry. For more information email thaaitamilschool@gmail.com

14-16 April 2017...

Yoga Meditation Retreat Easter 2017 – Join us at Lake Moogerah (1 hour from Brisbane) for 3 days and nights of bliss. Daily workshops, yoga, meditation, kirtans and recreational activities. In the evenings, group cultural programs and gathering will be the highlight. All foods served will be pure vegetarian with lots of fresh fruits and greens. We encourage you to book early as we have limited spaces. Basic accommodation will be provided. For more information visit www.lotusashram.org or call 0412 278 808

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Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 - proudly sponsors this page for community organisations / non profit organisatons!

To view full list of upcoming events visit www.indiantimes.com.au

Weekly Events...

Mondays…

Brahma Kumaris Australia – Meditation & Positive Thinking Sessions – Mondays 10.30am to 11.30am: Regular meditation should improve your ability to focus and think clearly. By practising mediations which cultivate our ability to sense and care for our natural energy we are able to live life with greater awareness and confidence. Each class includes guided meditations, discussions, short talks and the introduction and practice of techniques. Each session is a different topic. Meditation sessions Tuesdays 6.30pm to 7.30 pm and Sundays 5.30pm to 6.30pm. During these sessions there will be meditation commentaries, music and periods of silence. You can come and go at any time during these sessions. Venue: 27 Bordeaux Parade, Mermaid Waters. Please phone to register – 5575 2126. Email goldcoast@au.brahmakumaris.org or visit www.brahmakumaris.org/au/whatson for more information

Brisbane Good Samaritan Prayer Fellowship (Malayam Service) – Congregation on every Sunday from 10am to 12pm at Stafford Scouts, 38 Appleby Road, Stafford, Qld 4053.

For further information contact 0468 358 646 or 0411 269 322. Come and hear the message of your eternal life, GOD BLESS Zi Za Dong Zen Association – Energy Healing to improve health and well beings – ZZDZ Assn. Inc is a not for profit charity foundation based in Brisbane. Focusing on energy healing named Qi Gong through meditation, it provides free energy healing sessions and guidance. Practicing Qi Gong will encourage you to achieve a positive outlook on life, by helping to reduce stress and calm your mind.

It also increases vitality, enhances your immune system and helps to eliminate nega-

tive attitudes and behaviours. Session Times & Locations: Mondays-Thursday & Saturday 9am – 12pm at 10 Cognac Court, Calamvale.

Thursday afternoon (1st & 3rd week) 3.30pm – 6pm at Sunybank Hills Shoppingtown Library. 67 Level 2, Cnr Calam & Compton Road. Friday afternoon 2pm-5pm at Logan West Library – 69 Grand Plaza Drive, Brown Plains. For more information email zzdz.aus@gmail.com or visit www.zzdz.org.au

Wednesdays…

Brisbane Good Samaritan Prayer Fellowship (Malayam Service) – Cottage Meeting on every Wednesday from 6.30pm to 8pm at Stafford Scouts, 38 Appleby Road, Stafford, Qld 4053. For further information contact 0468 358 646 or 0411 269 322. Come and hear the message of your eternal life, GOD BLESS

The Mantra Room – Live Kirtan – Spend an evening of sacred Yoga chant with Gayatri, Ishvara, Jayadharma and friends Fridays 6pm, Sundays 5pm and Wednesdays 7pm at Australian School of Meditation & Yoga, 236 Montague Road, West End. Amazing Vego Food $5. Come celebrate, meditate and let the music set you free. For more information call 3844 8441 or email brisbane@asm.org.au

Thursdays…

Sai Baba Aarti Program – Every Thursday 7.30pm – Virginia State School, 1678 Sandgate Road, Virginia (next to Virginia Train Station) Aarti & Archana opportunity for all attendees, Prasad & Dinner provided.

Enquiries call 0405 392 793 / saibababrisbane@gmail.com / Like on facebook www.facebook.com/SaiBabaBrisbane Yoga in Daily Life – Discount Yoga Classes – every Thursday at 6pm and every Friday at

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4.30pm, they are $10 for 1 hour and half, with relaxation, asanas, pranayam and meditation, at Yoga in Daily Life Brisbane Ashram.

Also full moon meditation at 7.45pm – 8.30, every Purnima by Donation. Yoga in Daily Life – 46 Doggett Street, Newstead Qld 4006. www.brisbane.yogaindailylife.org.au / brisbane@yogaindailylife.org

Sundays…

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc – Vedic Yaj (Havan) –The Sabha performs Havan Yaj every Sunday from 2-4pm at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre, 198 Learoyd Rd, Willawong and the public is welcome to be part of it. The members of public now can perform Havan Yaj at the centre. The fee of $50 is required for use of centre facilities to cover operating costs. The Havan Kund, utensils are available for use as well The Havan ingredients can be supplied if you are unable to get them. Mango sticks, Ghee, Samagri, Chamfor etc is available at the centre as well for $25. The seating capacity of the Yajshalla (Havan Hall) is 100. Contact Vice President Mrs Sushila Pathik for further information and bookings on 3314 6059. Contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or visit www.aryasamajqueensland.com for further information.

Australian Pentecostal Assembly Brisbane – Sunday Worship every Sunday 9am11.30am at 84 The Community Place, 84 Kedron Park Road, Wooloowin Qld with Pastor Prakash Jacob. Cottage Meeting every Tuesday 7.30pm-9pm / Kids Bible Study every Friday 7pm-7.45pm / Intercessory Prayer every Friday 7.45-9pm. Worship in Hindi, English, Malayalam and other Indian Languages. For more information Phone 07 3315 5597 / 0413 347 562 or email info@apabrisbane.com.au / www.apabrisbane.com.au Continued page 41

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 39

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Brisbane Multinational Church Hindi Service – Every Sunday at 9.30am at 757 Gympie Road, Lawnton. Special service to pray for healing, deliverance and other spiritual problems. Enquiries Ps Joseph Dass 0424 180 240.

Star Christian Church – Clontarf Beach State School Hall. Every Sunday – Morning Service at 9.30am. Evening Service at 5pm. $2 dinner served afterwards. Come fired up and expectant! Star Church is a great, young church located on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula. A Pentecostal community connected with the Australian Christian Churches. We passionately want God’s presence in our lives, desire to be trained and knowledgeable in His Word, hungry for the supernatural, excelling in our service and hospitable at life. For more information visit www.starchurch.org.au

Monthly Events...

Hindu Cultural Hub (HCB) at Clayfield – Monthly Cultural congregation – Bar-Jai Community Hall, 178 Alexandra Road, Clayfield Qld 4011. Pooja by Hindu Priest, Bajan and Kirtan by devotees, monthly religious updates / guest speakers on spiritual (or) yoga techniques. Prasatham with vegetarian dinner served. For more details contact 0469 016 416 or visit www.hinduculturalhub.org The John Oxley District Orchid Society – Meeting – We pride ourselves on being a friendly Society and new members and guests are always welcome at our meetings held on the second Wednesday of each month starting at 7.30pm.

Venue is Oxley Bowls Club, 24-30 Englefield Road, Oxley. Please contact Sonia Addison 3277 5825 or jodos-inc@hotmail.com for more information The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association - Gold Coast Bhajan - monthly Bhajans held every third

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Friday of the month starting at 7.15am at the Helensvale Community Centre - 31 Discovery Rd, Helensvale. Activities include Bhajan recitals, short educational presentations and free vegetarian dinner. All are cordially invited to attend. For further information please contact Director/Religious Activities, Mr S Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or gchcan@gmail.com or visit www.goldcoasthindu.org

Organization of Hindu Malayalees Queensland (OHM Queensland) – Monthly Bhajans held every first Saturday of Malayalam calendar. Activities include Bhajans, Malayalam Class, Library service, religious short educational presentations, vegetarian dinner etc. For further information please contact President Krishnan AK on 0418 727 570 or ohmqueensland@gmail.com

Shirdi Sai Sansthan Brisbane Ltd – Shirdi Saibaba Bhajans and Aaratis – last Saturday every month. 5.30pm at Runcorn Heights State School, 200 Nemies Road, Runcorn Qld 4113. Dhoop Aarati, Bhajans, Ashtotaram, Shej Aarati and Mahaprasad at 7.40pm. For more details contact 0416 813 747 or 0479 143 724 – visit www.shirdisaibrisbane.org or follow on facebook Shirdi sai baba brisbane

Mata Amritananadamayi Centre- Brisbane: Regular Satsangs are held at 32 Burnside Crescent, Westlake on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month at 4 pm. Spiritual chanting, singing, reading and Arati are followed by a prasad meal. Sri Lalitha Sahasranamavali chanting takes place at the Sri Selva Vinayakar Kovil at South Maclean on the 3rd Sunday of each month at 10:30 am. Register your interest for IAM Meditation courses. www.ammaaustralia.org.au; facebook: Amma Brisbane Satsang. Contact: brisbane@ ammaaustralia.org.au; ph: 07 3715 8278 Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) Brisbane (South Maclean) – For full list of upcoming events please visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 41

Bollywood & Entertainment

Most talked about actors of 2016

Shah Rukh Khan coming to Bigg Boss, Salman fails at Raees dialogue

THE year has been amassed with 118 Bollywood releases so far. There were a few films that stood out through the year. There were a few disappointments from the megastars as well, this is what separates our Most Talked-About Actors of 2016.

Here's a list of most talked about actors of 2016 when it comes to their professional or personal lives.

Aamir Khan The cerebral Khan who is notorious for making limited appearances for the media, put himself out in the open aggressively this time for ‘Dangal’.

His year-ending release had him undergo a rigorous physical transformation for the part of a wrestler.

Aamir’s performance has been lauded unanimously, and the internet can’t get enough of his workout videos.

Shahid Kapoor

• Shah Rukh Khan will be on Bigg Boss to promote Raees.

SALMAN Khan and Shah Rukh Khan are the two most sought after stars in Bollywood and Indian TV. Their stories of friendship and generosity make headlines, and they keep promoting each other’s films on social media and their respective TV shows. The two will come together once again before the release of Raees, scheduled for January 25.

In a video posted by Salman Khan on Twitter, he is seen repeating Shah Rukh’s now famous dialogue from Raees. But he fumbles

and eventually resorts to his Haryanvi accent popularised in Sultan.

SRK enters the scene in a black Pathani suit and completes the dialogue in his rustic voice.

Directed by Rahul Dholakia, Raees will hit the screens on January 25, 2017. The film, which also stars Pakistani actor Mahira Khan, will clash with Hrithik Roshan’s Kaabil at the ticket window.

HT

I’m not friends with anyone in Bollywood: Athiya Shetty After a forgettable 2015, Shahid was back with a bang in his critically acclaimed performance in ‘Udta Punjab’ as the hysterical rockstar Tommy Singh. Heavily tattooed and shoes that scream out “eccentric” from a country mile, he vowed us on the silver screen. He became a father of a beautiful daughter and we can’t wait for his first TV appearance with wife Mira Rajput on Karan Johar’s chat show.

Ranbir Kapoor Fresh from a string of films that have been missing the mark for the last few years, Ranbir Kapoor shut his critics with a thundering performance in ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’.

He cleared the air around his relationship status too. And as the year comes to an end, the teaser of his long-in-theworks ‘Jagga Jasoos’ has left us waiting for more.

Amitabh Bachchan

The ‘Shahenshah’ of Bollywood maintained a visibility all through the year with his three releases, ‘Wazir’, ‘Te3n’, and ‘Pink’. With diverse roles at hand, Amitabh Bachchan displayed range that had the viewers spellbound.

Sushant Singh Rajput ‘M.S. Dhoni’ wonder boy Sushant Singh Rajput had the cash registers ringing with his blockbuster performance in one of this year’s highest grossers. The former TV actor has easily cemented his place in the film industry this year.

Manoj Bajpayee ‘Aligarh’, the film festival favourite, was a sensitive story of a gay professor. Manoj Bajpayee essayed the role of the film’s protagonist with extreme grace and poise. He rounds off our list of the Most talked about actors of 2016.

TOI 42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

THOUGH her father, Suniel Shetty, has acted in numerous films, Athiya Shetty says Bollywood was “totally new” to her when she debuted in Hero (2015), as she didn’t frequent the sets of her dad’s films. “I never knew anything about Bollywood before I signed Hero. I didn’t have any connection with movies except for the fact that my father was an actor. I never went on the sets with him, so everything was new for me. I had an amazing experience and received a lot of love. As time unfolds, I will be able to understand more about myself and the industry.

It is a learning process for me.”

The actor says that her perception of the industry changed soon after she started working and she feels “happiest on the set”.

Athiya says, “I remember that after my first shot, I told my parents that I want to do this for the rest of my life. I hope I have the opportunity to do that. I felt extremely grateful.

I am very critical about myself, so, I feel there is a long way to go before I feel like I have achieved something. I have seen my father and his journey and how he got his first film. That was a sense of achievement for him. I didn’t get the chance [to be an actor] on a golden platter, but I won’t be naïve and say us [star kids] don’t have it easy. I feel blessed that I have the opportunities.”

Although Hero wasn’t received as well as

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expected, the young actor says she “wouldn’t change anything about it”. Looking back, she says that she was “upset but not too upset”.

“I guess I understood that it was part and parcel of life and the industry. The whole team works hard to make the product, but it doesn’t work sometimes. One learns from such experiences.”

Athiya is now looking forward to working with Arjun Kapoor and Anil Kapoor in her next film, Mubarakan. Ask her if she has known Anil over the years and she says, “I don’t have a personal equation with him. I have known of him, but didn’t ‘know’ him.

He was warm and encouraging during Hero.

Working with seniors like Anil sir and Anees sir (Bazmee, director) will challenge and help me learn a lot. I have heard amazing things about Anil sir. I have seen how dedicated he is as a professional. He still gives everyone a run for their money and is so energetic. Even today, after years of being in the industry, he is eager to learn, which is inspiring.”

Athiya has often been compared to Sonam Kapoor due to her fashion sense. Is she friends with her? “I am not friends with anyone in the industry, as I haven’t grown up around them. But I know people in the industry. Sonam has created a name for herself and is an amazing person,” says Athiya.

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Bollywood & Entertainment

Vijay's 'Bairavaa' to release in 55 countries

TAMIL superstar Vijay's forthcoming actiondrama 'Bairavaa' will release in 55 countries with premieres planned on January 11. In a statement, the film's overseas distributor A&P Group confirmed the film's release in 55 countries.

Apart from regular release in key overseas markets, the film will also release African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya,

Uganda and Zambia among others.

The statement further added that the film will also release in virgin markets such as Mexico, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Russia where no Tamil films have been released so far.

Directed by Bharathan, the film also stars Keerthy Suresh and Jagapathi Babu. In India, the film releases on January 12.

TOI

I can never forget my theatre days in Delhi’s Mandi House: Nawazuddin Siddiqui NAWAZUDDIN Siddiqui might be a star in Bollywood now, a regular in Mumbai —the film capital of India — but it is Delhi where his fling with acting bloomed into a longterm relationship. “I have worked in Delhi for seven years. I was with the National School of Drama for three years and did street plays for four years. I remember the time when people would not get enough space to rehearse at the Mandi House central park because there were so many others practising. Wo memories kabhi nahi bhuli jaati (One can’t forget those memories),” reminisces Siddiqui.

The 42-year-old says the theatre artists produced during that time belonged to a different league altogether.

“I’m talking about the time frame between the year 1992 to 2000, the kind of artists theatre produced in those days have no comparison. There used to be no internet or mobile at that time and people were just focused on rehearsing for their roles in a play.”

Siddiqui — who has been part of Bollywood films such as Gangs of Wasseypur (2012), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) and Badlapur

(2015) — feels that theatre artists should be respected just as much as filmstars. “Things are the other way round internationally. In the West, Hollywood actors dream of being a part of Broadway. I am sure this attitude will come to India as well and I hope it does soon... When a Broadway artist performs in the West, everyone applauds him or her (they get attention) even if someone like (Hollywood star) Daniel Day-Lewis is present there,” says Siddiqui.

HT

Kissing scenes get green signal: Censor board ‘sanskaari’ no more?

Vineeth Kumar all set to direct Fahadh again DIRECTOR-actor Vineeth Kumar, who made his directorial debut through the film Ayal Njanalla, starring Fahadh Faasil in 2015, is gearing up to team up with the actor yet again.

The filmmaker, who is currently busy with his acting assignments, says that the movie will start rolling after July.

"Fahadh has committed to the project, but we haven't finalised the rest of the cast or details, as of now. I have to start shooting V K Prakash's film Careful soon, after which I would be working on my directorial," says Vineeth, who plays a journalist in VKP's

movie.

Careful has an ensemble cast which include Vijay Babu, Parvathi Nambiar, Jomol and Sandhya Raju, who plays the female protagonist.

"I play a friend of Sandhya Raju's character.

In the movie, she is in pursuit of something and it's my character who helps her out in the process," Vineeth says.

Fahadh is meanwhile shooting for Dileesh Pothen's Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum and Rafi's Role Models, simultaneously.

TOI

I want to redefine the idea of commercial cinema: Ram Charan You've had an eventful 2016 — Dhruva is declared a blockbuster and has been topping all the popular polls online as well...

Yes, it was an eventful year and I must say it ended with a bang thanks to Dhruva. I have been getting positive responses from everyone. What makes it extra special is the fact that my uncle Allu Aravind produced the film! I have received immense love for the film, particularly for picking a story as unconventional as this and for giving importance to the script. I guess going forward too, I'll just try to keep that going.

And, it also seems like the critics too loved it as much as the audience —that's not something that happens often.

True. satisfying both the critics as well as audiences — that too, all sections of the audience — is pretty difficult in Tollywood. But Dhruva seems to have cracked both. What more can I ask for!

Frankly, I don't know what the audiences are expecting, but I'd like to believe I'm on the right path. I want to keep doing films on unconventional subjects. Having said that, I love commercial films. I want to try and redefine how we have understood commercial cinema so far. I want to appeal to the larger audiences while giving the subject of the films the importance they deserve.

So, what next?

I have signed three films already and the first of them will be with Sukumar. I'm very excited about the project. It is an out and out village story and I haven't played a character like that before. We will be starting the shoot for it this month and the details of the other Call 07 3865 6533

two projects will be announced soon too. But what I'm really excited about is working with my father in his 150th film. I will be doing a 30-second guest appearance in it as well.

Sharing screenspace with him is always a pleasure and also overwhelming. The minute we face the camera, he is not my father anymore. He is the Megastar — his aura itself is so stunning! In the little cameo I did, I took so many takes! (laughs) but he was patient enough and let me take my time.

TOI

• The Censor Board has retained kissing scenes in OK Jaanu.

THE Censor Board has retained kissing scenes in OK Jaanu.

Now, going a step further, the board has retained all kissing scenes in OK Jaanu, starring Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur. Actor Vidya Balan’s Begum Jaan, in which she plays a brothel madame, has got no cuts despite many intimate scenes.

So, is the censor board, often accused of being sanskaari, finally loosening up? “As a filmmaker, I know what can be cut without hampering the flow of the narrative. In Befikre there is no way we could cut the kisses without interrupting the flow of the story,” CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani had said in an interview. “I feel that CBFC is more forthcoming now and we must appreciate it. The content of films has been kept intact. It is a welcome move for everybody that CBFC has become so liberal,” says filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar.

Earlier, kissing scenes in films such as Tamasha (2015), Bombay Velvet (2015), Spectre (2016) and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), have come under attack. Industry ex-

• Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor had 23 kissing scenes in Befikre.

perts feel that there is nothing to rejoice about even now. “For every Befikre or Ok Jaanu, there seem to be two or three films where they suddenly become strict. There is no consistency and it’s a very subjective thing,” says trade analyst Komal Nahta. “When a big film is involved, the hypocritical side of CBFC comes out. If it’s a small film, they create a scene. They always go easy on big films,” says trade analyst Amul Mohan. HT

• Vidya Balan starrer Begum Jaan, too, is rumoured to have many steamy scenes.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 — 43

Bollywood & Entertainment

Dangal, Sultan and Dhoni: Mind Blowing Films welcomes Why films on sports are such a big hit in India 2017 with a stunning line-up of movies!

THE upcoming year is going to be a big one, as we promise to bring a number of big and popular cinemas to Australia and New Zealand.

January will feature a perfect blend of high entertaining, action, drama and masala films with Sarvann, Ok Jaanu releasing on 13th January and Raees, Kaabil releasing on 25th January.

SARVANN Release Date: 13th January 2017

Starring: Amrinder Gill, Ranjit Bawa, Simi Chahal Language: Punjabi (With English Subtitles) Producer: Priyanka Chopra, Dr. Madhu Chopra, Deepshika Deshmukh Production House: Purple Pebble Pictures Director: Karaan Guliani SYNOPSIS Actor Priyanka Chopra’s maiden Punjabi film as a producer, titled Sarvann, will hit the screens in January.The film features Amrinder Gill and will be produced by Priyanka’s mother Madhu Chopra under their home banner.

OK JAANU Release Date: 13th January 2017

Starring: Aditya Roy Kapur, Shraddha Kapoor Language: Hindi (with subtitles) Producer: Mani Ratnam, Karan Johar Production House: Madras Talkies, Dharma Productions Director: Shaad Ali SYNOPSIS OK Jaanu (English: OK Darling) is an upcoming Indian romantic drama film directed by Shaad Ali and story, screenplay & produced by Mani Ratnam and Karan Johar.

It is an official remake of Mani Ratnam's Tamil film O Kadhal Kanmani starring Dul-

quer Salmaan and Nithya Menen.

The film stars Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor in the lead roles, portraying a young couple in a live-in relationship in Mumbai with Naseeruddin Shah and Leela Samson play supporting roles as an older couple in the film, portraying the younger couple's landlords. A. R. Rahman will compose the film's score and soundtrack while Gulzar is the dialogue writer of this film.

RAEES Release Date: 25th January 2017

Starring: Shah Rukh Khan, Mahira Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui Language: Hindi (with subtitles) Producer: Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani, Gauri Khan Production House: Red Chillies Entertainment, Excel Entertainment Director: Rahul Dholakia SYNOPSIS: Raees is an upcoming 2016 Indian crimethriller film directed by Rahul Dholakia and produced by Farhan Akhtar,Ritesh Sidhwani and Gauri Khan. Set in 1980s Gujarat, it shows the story of a cruel and clever bootlegger (played by Shah Rukh Khan) whose business is highly challenged and eventually thwarted by a tough cop Ghulam Patel (played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui). The film criticizes the prohibition of alcohol, prostitution, and illegal drugs in Gujarat.

KAABIL Release Date: 25th January 2017

Starring: Hrithik Roshan, Yami Gautam Language: Hindi (With English Subtitles) Producer: Rakesh Roshan Production House: FilmKraft Production Director: Sanjay Gupta SYNOPSIS Kaabil is a romantic action thriller film featuring Hrithik Roshan and Yami Gautum in lead roles both of which are blind but somehow manage to fall in love.

Rohan, 31, is a dubbing artist. His days are spent in the studio, nights at home. In today’s complex world, Rohan is a simple man with one dream – to lead a normal life and in time, to find someone with whom he can build a happy home. His journey leads him to meet the independent girl Supriya. Together, they begin to build the world of their dreams.

The grave tragedy leaves Rohan isolated and completely in the dark. In his quest for answers, Rohan stumbles upon the devastating truth of what really happened that compelled Supriya to leave him all alone.

Driven by his loss, rage and his undying love for Supriya, Rohan is propelled into a no holds barred battle of strength and wit against the powerful people responsible for destroying his perfect life.

For all the latest releases screening dates visit

www.mindblowingfilms.com 44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

• Aamir Khan’s latest sports film Dangal is creating history at the box office.

AAMIR Khan starrer Dangal crossed the Rs 350-crore mark on Sunday 8 January to become the biggest Bollywood blockbuster ever. Based on the life of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat who coached his two daughters to win two Commonwealth golds and a silver, the film struck a chord with millions of Indians for whom opportunities to root for a winning side are few and far between.

Why do films about sporting wins -- Lagaan, Chak de India, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Mary Kom, to name a few -- break the box-office in a country where no sport other than cricket sporadically offers fans the dizzying euphoria of wins and the gut-wrenching despondency of defeats?

Psychiatrists seem to have an answer.

India’s frequent sporting misses are what feed our collective hunger for celluloid celebrations of real and imagined victories. With so few opportunities to cheer a winning team, we turn to celluloid to recreate and glamourise past victories. Films that echo sporting wins give dejected supporters some reason to cheer for Team India despite its chronically medal-starved status.

Dream win Revisiting victories raises the viewers’ collective self-esteem by helping us ignore our many defeats for a moment and celebrate a worthy win. It also makes our supporting a losing side feel less like a complete waste of time.

With extensive marketing and 24x7 media coverage of all major sporting events beamed to our phones in realtime, it becomes impos-

sible to ignore our numerous sporting misses.

Viewers watching the live telecast of the Olympics, for example, cannot ignore that the medal tally for India, home to one-sixth of the world’s people, trails behind nations with a population of a few millions.

“Hurt becomes exaggerated and amplified, leading to anger and despondency,” said Dr Samir Parikh, chairman, department of mental health and behavioural sciences, Fortis Group of hospitals. “Watching a film on victory -- whether revisiting a past win or a fictional one – is cathartic and releases the viewers’ pent-up frustrations.”

We are one Sporting events reinforce national and social identity and provide spectators with a sense of belonging, identification and inclusion, which we rarely experience because of recurring losses in the field. Sports give spectators a collective identity and unifies them across class, caste, politics, gender, and other social divides. People may be voting for different parties and belong to different socio-economic strata, but when Team India wins, it’s a collective win for everyone.

The stadium then becomes a battleground where nation’s pride -- along with it social, cultural and ethnic identity -- is at stake.

“The Romans understood it well and used the arena as a unifier. Sport has evolved from gladiators fighting to the death in the arena to teams going to war without bloodshed in the field,” says Dr Nimesh Desai, director, Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences.

HT

You’re right out of my dreams: Karan Singh Grover tells Bipasha Basu

KARAN Singh Grover, who has hardly ever been shy about expressing his love for his wife Bipasha Basu openly, says for him she’s a girl straight out of his dreams.

Karan, who is currently holidaying in Australia with Bipasha, on Monday 9 January shared photographs of himself along with the actress, who turned 38 on Saturday 7 January.

“I’ve never met a girl as fun, as gorgeous and as crazy as your are Bipasha Basu. It’s like you’re right out of my dreams,” Karan captioned the image.

Karan was last seen on screen in the 2015 film Alone with Bipasha. He will next be seen in the upcoming film 3 Dev, which is the story of a couple, where the wife is extremely religious and the husband is not.

They rent out their house to three youngsters and certain situations lead to the trio being termed as ‘God’, leading to hilarious situations of lies, mistaken identity and chaos.

The film also stars Tisca Chopra, Kay Kay Menon, Kunal Roy Kapur and TV actor Ravi Dubey, who marks his big screen debut with the film.

Currently Bipasha, who tied the knot with Karan in April 2016, has no movies in her kitty.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 45

Sports News Hockey star Sardar Singh’s 2016 in review: sexual harassment trial to open again, says High Court Controversies in sports FIFA corruption saga THE Delhi High Court on Friday 6 January confirmed the interim order granting stay on the criminal proceedings against former Indian hockey team captain Sardar Singh, who is facing allegation of sexual harassment made by his estranged girlfriend, and asked a trial court to consider afresh the plea of the British woman.

In her plea before trial court, the woman, an ex-British player, had sought direction to the police to lodge an FIR in the case. The trial court had allowed her plea after which Sardar Singh had approached the High Court.

Justice Vipin Sanghi, who had earlier granted an interim stay, on Friday said that the lower court would hear afresh her matter and pass a fresh order.

The High Court, which disposed of Sardar Singh’s plea, has fixed the matter for proceedings before the trial court on February 2.

On October 14, the High Court had granted interim stay on the proceedings before the trial court till Friday.

It had also issued notice to the former under19 British hockey player and Delhi Police seeking their stand on Sardar Singh’s plea.

Sardar Singh, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment, exploitation, mental, physical and emotional torture made by his estranged girlfriend, had submitted before the High Court that the trial court did not give him a chance to be heard and no notice was issued before passing the order.

The woman had approached the trial court alleging that the police did not take action on

IN 2016 FIFA had their hands full with high-ranking officials confirmed being part of fraudulent dealings, racketeering, and money laundering.

It was hoped by many that the election on February 26 of Gianni Infantino to replace the beleaguered Sepp Blatter as FIFA's president would bring an end to an era of widespread corruption.

BCCI v Lodha her complaint against the hockey star, who captained India in the 2012 London Olympics.

The allegations levelled against Sardar Singh by the woman also includes charges of attempt to murder, causing miscarriage without consent and criminal intimidation.

In her complaint, she has alleged that the hockey player had established physical relation on the false promise of marriage and was also involved with other women.

She has also alleged that Sardar Singh would beat her up, and refused to accept responsibility after she conceived and pressurised the complainant to undergo an abortion.

Singh had earlier denied all the allegations levelled against him by the British hockey player of Indian origin.

The woman had alleged that she met the captain during the 2012 London Olympics for the first time and later entered into a physical relationship.

HT

Premier Badminton League: Saina Nehwal shines but Awadhe Warriors lose

The BCCI and the Lodha Committee saga went on throughout the year. Anurag Thakur took over the reins in BCCI, after the resignation of Shashank Manohar, and he straightaway attracted controversy.

Russia dope A World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) probe, conducted by lawyer Richard McLaren, said doping in Russia took place at an "unprecedented scale". He said over 1000 Russian athletes competing in the Olympics, Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games between 2011 and 2015 had been involved in, or benefited from, manipulations to conceal positive doping tests.

Rio Olympics and Zika

JI HYUN Sung’s name was on everyone’s lips at the UP Badminton Academy last year when she won the women’s singles crown at the prestigious Syed Modi Grand Prix Gold Tournament here. That was her maiden appearance in any event in the state capital.

But within 10 months, things changed and the World No 3 Korean went down fighting to London Olympics bronze-medallist Saina Nehwal in a Premier Badminton League match at the same venue on Friday 6 January.

The loss, however, didn’t make any difference as Mumbai Rockets outplayed local outfit Awadhe Warriors 4-3. The win also helped them complete a hat-trick of wins in as many encounters this season.

After losing the first game to World No 10 Saina 10-12, Sung bounced back superbly to leave the Indian gasping, winning the second game 11-4. But Saina, egged on by a near-capacity crowd, came back strongly to win the decider 11-5. This was Saina’s second win in as many matches here this season.

The win helped the local outfit stage a comeback as they had lost both their men’s dou-

bles and singles matches. Lee Yong Dae and Nipitphon Puangpuapech put the Rockets in the lead with an 11-7, 3-11, 13-11 win against the in-form pair of Markis Kido and V Shem Goh. Ajay Jayaram extended the lead to 2-0 as he defeated compatriot Kidambi Srikanth 5-11, 15-14, 11-5. This was Srikanth’s first loss in the league.

Jayaram lost the first game 5-11 and was down 1-5 in the second. But he never lost hope and kept up the pressure. From 7-all, the see-saw battle continued and it continued till 14-all before Jayaram sent down a powerful smash down the line to restore parity by winning the game 15-14. In the decider, Jayaram remained unstoppable and won 11-5.

“It was really fantastic as I could help my team get the early lead. The momentum was against me and I am glad that I hung on and won the match,” Jayaram said.

HS Prannoy then gave Mumbai Rockets an unassailable 4-1 lead, winning his trump match against Wing Ki Vincent Wong 14-12, 9-11, 11-8.

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2017

The lead up to the 2016 Olympics in Rio was as bad as it could get. With stadiums not finishing in time, protests by the locals and safety issues with incidents Australian Paralympic team being robbed, New Zealand athlete reportedly kidnapped and robbed by police, Human body parts washed up on shore near one of the beach volleyball sites, Rio had a big task in its hand to pull off the event. Add to that the threat of Zika virus, that led to the dropping out of high profile names like Jason Day and Rory McIlroy.

Narsingh Yadav ban After a bitter battle over the representation at Rio Olympics in the wrestling 74 kg category between Olympian Sushil Kumar and Narsingh Yadav, Narsingh was tested positive for steroid methandienone - a banned substance. He then went on to allege that he was victim of sabotage and that his food/supplement or urine had been tampered with. But CAS (Court of Arbitration in Sports) set aside the decision of the Indian anti-doping body, and slapped a four-year ban on Narsingh.

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Sports News MS Dhoni did not give up India captaincy, he was asked to go

• MS Dhoni gave up the ODI and T20I captaincy of the Indian team, putting Virat Kohli in charge of all three formats for the England series. (Getty Images)

MAHENDRA Singh Dhoni did not relinquish captaincy of India’s limited-overs teams but was nudged by the selectors into making the “bombshell announcement” – they told him his time at the helm was up, sources said.

The Indian cricket board announced on 4 January that MS Dhoni, the double World Cup-winning skipper, had decided to step down as the captain of the one-day and Twenty20 sides but would continue playing.

However, sources in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) told HT that Dhoni did not step down on his own. Selection committee chairman MSK Prasad had met the 35-year-old in Nagpur during last week’s Ranji Trophy semifinal between Jharkhand, Dhoni’s home state, and Gujarat.

Once the board made the announcement, Prasad hailed Dhoni’s decision. “I salute him for his sense of perfect timing. He knew that Virat (Kohli) is now a proven customer who has done exceptionally well as a leader in Tests,” Prasad told media.

But, the process to hand over the captaincy to Test skipper Kohli was set in motion as early as September, the sources said.

The setting up of the new selection committee on September 21 was the starting point.

The five-man panel brainstormed over the roadmap for Indian cricket, with the focus firmly on 2019 World Cup. It was explained to Dhoni – who would be almost 39 when the 50-over World Cup is held -- why Kohli should take over, the sources said.

The matter was again discussed with Dhoni during the last week’s Ranji tie in Nagpur, where he was present as the mentor of Jharkhand.

After that things moved quickly. Dhoni con-

veyed his decision to quit as the limitedovers captain to the BCCI on January 4 before the announcement was made.

There has been pressure on Dhoni over his captaincy. While Kohli’s standing has zoomed -- he has led India to five Test-series wins in a row -- the ODI side’s performance has been patchy.

In 2015, India lost to South Africa at home, were beaten 4-1 in Australia early last year, and then scraped past New Zealand 3-2 towards the year end.

Dhoni though led India to the semifinals of the 2015 World Cup, where they lost to cohosts Australia, the eventual champions.

India won seven and lost six ODIs last year.

Dhoni’s camp argued the ODI team wasn’t as dominating as the Test side because the selectors were focused entirely on the longer format.

They picked a full-strength side for the Test series against New Zealand and England but rested main bowlers R Ashwin, Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja for the ODIs against the Kiwis.

However, the Test side did consistently well despite injuries to several players.

Kohli, in his first interview after being named limited-overs captain, said: “It’s a win-win situation for the captain coming in to still have Dhoni for his advice, his inputs and his cricketing brain.

“But what I’m most happy about is that he’ll be able to play free cricket and express himself as the aggressive MS Dhoni we knew when he first came into the team. As a player, responsibility can take that away from you. I think it’s time he enjoys his cricket because he has taken so much burden for the country.”

HT

Woods to compete in Dubai Desert Classic FORMER world number one Tiger Woods said he would compete in the European Tour's Dubai Desert Classic next month as he charts his comeback from injury.

"I've always enjoyed playing in Dubai and it's fantastic to see how the city has grown phenomenally from when I first started playing there," Woods said on the event website (www.dubaidesertclassic.com).

Woods, sidelined by back pain for the past 15 months, will launch his official comeback at the Jan. 26-29 Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in southern California, the PGA Tour event announced on Wednesday 4 January.

The Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club is the longest-running European Tour event in the region and takes place from Feb. 2-5.

Woods has also committed to play the Feb. 16-19 Genesis Open at Riviera, California, and his hometown tournament, the Honda Classic in south Florida, the following week as he leads up to the Masters in Augusta in April.

He is expected to play the March 16-19 Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando, Florida, an event he has won a record eight times.

The 41-year-old American has not played an official money event since Aug. 2015 and pulled out of a planned return at the first event of the 2016-17 season in northern California in October.

He said then that his game was not ready but the 14-times major champion subsequently made his comeback at the Hero World Challenge, an unofficial PGA Tour event, in the Bahamas in December where he finished 15th in an 18-man field.

Woods will be making his eighth appearance in Dubai, where he has won twice and is 92under par for the 28 rounds he has played there since 2001.

He joins world number two Rory McIlroy, Sweden's British Open champion Henrik Stenson and Masters winner Danny Willett among leading players at an event dubbed the 'Major of the Middle East'.

"It was great winning in Dubai in 2006 and 2008. When you win in Dubai, you know you've beaten an outstanding field," said Woods.

TOI

Mallya's Force India to launch F1 car at Silverstone

LONDON: Force India will be one of the first teams to show off their 2017 Formula One car after announcing a Feb. 22 launch at their Silverstone home base.

The Mercedes-powered team, who have a changed driver lineup with 20-year-old Frenchman Esteban Ocon joining Mexican Sergio Perez in place of Germany's Nico Hulkenberg, finished a best ever fourth overall last year.

The team rolled out their 2016 car in Barcelona last February, before principal Vijay Mallya had his Indian diplomatic pass-

port revoked in April with a judge in Mumbai issuing a non-bailable warrant for his arrest.

Indian authorities trying to recover about $1.4 billion from his collapsed Kingfisher Airlines want to question Mallya, who last March flew to Britain where he has an indefinite right of residency.

Mallya attended only one race in 2016, the British Grand Prix at the circuit across the road from the team's Silverstone factory, and watched the rest remotely.

World champions Mercedes will launch their new car at Silverstone on Feb. 23, with Ferrari next out on the 24th in Italy.

Pre-season testing starts in Barcelona on Feb. 27 with other teams expected to present their cars at the Circuit de Catalunya on the opening day.

Teams usually leave launches as late as possible, unless they are just to show off a new livery on an old car, to give themselves as much time as they can to finalise new developments.

They will want to start testing with the new cars, however, because 2017 sees new rules with bigger tyres and changed aerodynamics that could shake up the pecking order. TOI

Lodha backlash? Tamil Nadu unit tells BCCI won’t host India-England U-19 matches NEW DELHI: The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has refused to host two India U-19 ‘Tests’ against England scheduled at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium next month.

The Tamil Nadu unit has, in a letter to the BCCI CEO, Rahul Johri, expressed its inability to stage the games, starting on February 13.

The BCCI had notified the TNCA about the matches a month ago. However, in the letter to Johri, the Tamil Nadu unit joint secretary, RJ Palani, says, “We regret to inform you that we are unable to host the matches at Chennai due to various domestic programmes scheduled during the period.”

However, the decision is likely to be interpreted as a response to the Supreme Court

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• The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has refused to host two India U-19 ‘Test’ matches against England from February 13 that had been scheduled at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. (PTI)

order on January 2 ousting top officials of the BCCI and its state units over tenure eligibility as spelt out in the Justice RM Lodha

Committee report.

The TNCA move also comes a day after many of these officials met in Bengaluru to discuss the implications of the Lodha report.

There has been speculation that the ousted officials could try and disrupt the cricket season in wake of the SC ruling.

Kashi Viswanathan, who had to quit as TNCA secretary following the apex court order, told HT: “We have a lot of domestic matches to host. Due to the disruption caused by the cyclone, a lot of our grounds are facing issues and we haven’t been able to host matches. So we have expressed our inability.”

Cyclone Vardah hit Chennai on December 12 and caused widespread damage. However, TNCA staged the final Test against

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England, which started four days later.

Viswanathan said the TNCA had not committed to hosting the U-19 games. “We were asked by the BCCI, but we had never committed to it.”

The Supreme Court order ousted president, Anurag Thakur, secretary, Ajay Shirke as well as many other officials. As many as 21 units have pledged to implement the Lodha panel recommendations in full, as directed by the court.

The meeting on 7 January in Bengaluru was attended, among others, by N Srinivasan, former BCCI president who has had to step down as TNCA chief, Shirke, ousted Board treasurer Anirudh Chaudhary and joint secretary Amitabh Choudhary, and vice-president Rajeev Shukla.

HT

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