Brisbane Indian Times - July 2020 Online Issue

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Print Post Approved PP : 424022 1724 | ISSN 2652-6182

Volume 16, Number 11 Saturday, July 11th, 2020

Telephone: (07) 3865 6533 Fax: (07) 3865 5864 E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Brisbane’s Iconic Landmark, Story Bridge turns eighty

At the time of opening in 1940, the Story Bridge was Australia’s second largest bridge (exceeded by the Sydney Harbour Bridge). It was the seventh largest bridge of it’s kind in the world.

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Fiji Freight Specialist (Sea & Air) BRISBANE 33 Curtin Ave. West Eagle Farm QLD 4009 The Story Bridge turns 80 on 6th of July , having been officially opened on July 6th, 1940.

Born out of the Great Depression, the Story Bridge was initially proposed in the 1920’s, after the Victoria Bridge, Brisbane’s only innercity bridge, was struggling to cope with the demands of a booming Brisbane.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner did the early Morning climb and cut the birthday cake atop the bridge apex, while adventurous Councillor Krista Adams did a one footer on a plank, a very bold move indeed, symbolic of the planks that the workers walked on during the construction Have you ever wondered

how the iconic Story Bridge of Brisbane came to life? Such a large piece of metal did not just happen overnight.

But it did change the way that life in Brisbane and the surrounding areas was lived forevermore. We are here to tell the tale of the journey that brought this erected this bridge. It all starts way back in 1925.

Brisbane’s historical landmark the Story Bridge is magically positioned above the Brisbane River and amongst the inner suburbs of Kangaroo Point and New Farm. Story Bridge Adventure Climb will take you to the summit more than 80 metres above the Brisbane River. With 360-degree views spanning Moreton Bay in the East, the

Glasshouse Mountains to our North and hinterland views to the West, your vision and sights are endless.

There were many things that happened to make this bridge one of the best places to visit in Brisbane.

First things first, in 1925 after the Brisbane City Council was established, a committee was set-up due to that fact that there were not enough bridges crossing the Brisbane river. Not being able to cross this giant river proved itself to create quite a debacle. Construction on the Story Bridge did not start for another 10 years, though, since the State Government refused to fund such an expensive bridge.

CONTD. ON PG 21

The Story Bridge turns 80 on 6th of July, having been officially opened on July 6th, 1940. The Bridge is 1,072 metres long from the southern to northern anchor piers.

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Inside

• Local News ..................................4-26 • Real Estate ..................................... 28 • Fiji News ......................................... 36 • India News ..................................... 38 • Health & Well Being .................... 40 • Astrology ........................................ 42 • Business Directory/Classified ... 43 • Sports News ................................... 44 • Entertainment .............................. 46

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: prod@indiantimes.com.au JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS Ram Jattan (UK) / Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) / Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) • ML. M. Nawaaz Ashram • Imam Muhammad Aslam • Pastor Joseph Dass • Haji Abdul Rahman Deen • Jitendra Deo • Nimisha Modi • Ranjita Pillai (Immigration Matters) • Peter Lane Rai • Awadhesh Sharma • Shailendra Singh • Gagan deep Tandon • Ravi Vastrad • Cartoon Corner: Merwyn Machado • Brian Sullivan (Photography) Address: PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018 Ph: (07) 3865 6533 Fax: (07) 3865 5864 E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au Subscriptions: 12 months 6 months 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.

All corresondence should be addressed to: Brisbane Indian Times, PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018. Ph: (07) 3865 6533 Fax: 3865 5864 / prod@indiantimes.com.au

From the Editor: If you would like us to publish your letters, feedback, comments on any of our stories or suggest ideas columns or features, please send your submissions to: Brisbane Indian Times Suits 1, 2281 Sandgate Road Boondall Qld 4034 or E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au

2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

From the Publisher Welcome to July, yes we have entered the new financial year, no doubt it will come with its own challenges, we humans are very adaptable, we quickly adapt to any situation, of course there is always resistance, no change has ever been implemented without any form of resistance, as the saying goes that every action as an equal and opposite reaction, this issue I will focus on the financial year matters.

You would have seen many end of financial year, but probably never one like this as there are a stack of big changes this year. Tax time is here – and it’s going to be a little different this time around. That’s because a raft of new changes will kick in as you fill out your tax return in 2020, and many are likely to affect you. Here’s a roundup of everything you need to know.

The coronavirus crisis has left millions of Aussies out of work or facing uncertain professional futures, which is why the government has introduced a raft of stimulus measures, including the JobKeeper wage subsidy and boosting the JobSeeker payment.

However, H & R Block director of tax communications Mark Chapman said it’s important to remember that both JobSeeker and JobKeeper payments – or any other government benefit – are part of your taxable income, meaning you have to report that cash like you would your regular salary.

“JobKeeper and JobSeeker are treated the same way as your normal wage and it has to go on your tax return in the same way,” he explained.

“Centrelink will provide you with the equivalent of a payment summary so you can see exactly how much you’ve been paid at the end of the financial year.”

Last year, Australians rushed to lodge their tax returns as early as possible thanks to the promise of that infamous $1080 tax offset.

The good news is, it’s back this year – but it doesn’t mean you’ll get a $1080 lump sum.

That’s because it’s a tax offset that reduces your overall tax bill, which means you will either get a bigger refund than you normally would, or alternatively, you might end up having to pay less if you receive a tax bill.

It’s worth anywhere from $255 to the full $1080, depending on how much you’re earning – and those who make more than $126,000 won’t get anything at all.

And Mr Chapman said that just like last year, you “don’t have to do anything” to receive the benefit – it will automatically be calculated when you lodge your tax return.

Countless Aussies have been working from home during the coronavirus lockdown, and Mr Chapman said there would probably be a big jump in claims as a result.

“We’re likely to see a spike in people’s working

from home expenses compared to previous years,” he said.

“A lot of us have been working from home full time for weeks so there is bound to A lot of us have been working from home full time for weeks so there is bound to be a spike in those claims.”

Just last month, the ATO revealed it was rolling out a new working from home shortcut to make it easier for people to claim deductions.

The special new arrangement will allow people to claim a rate of 80 cents per hour for all their running expenses, instead of calculating costs for specific running expenses as taxpayers would under normal circumstances.

Multiple people living in the same house can claim this new rate individually, and it is no longer a requirement to have a dedicated work from home area in order to claim The change means taxpayers will be now able to choose one of three ways to calculate their additional running expenses for the period of March 1 to June 30.

They include claiming that rate of 80 cents per work hour for all additional running expenses, claiming a rate of 52 cents per work hour for heating, cooling, lighting, cleaning and the decline in value of office furniture, plus calculating the work-related portion of your phone and internet expenses, computer consumables, stationery and the decline in value of a computer, laptop or similar device, or claiming the actual work-related portion of all your running expenses, which you need to calculate on a reasonable basis.

On the flip side, Mr Chapman said the working from home arrangements would mean a likely decrease in some common tax deductions such as car use and work-related clothing.

Most of us usually wait until we get our annual payment summary from our employer at the end of the financial year before lodging our tax return – but those summaries, sometimes referred to as group certificates, are now virtually a thing of the past.

That’s because many organisations must now report their workers’ income, superannuation and tax information directly to the Australian Taxation Office in real time.

If you file your return through a tax agent, they will automatically have those details on file, and if you do it yourself, it will also be ready and waiting for you on myGov. I must thank all advertisers for their continued support, in these trying times, we have maintained our print and online versions.

Our facebook live segment has been very well received with the number of views ever increasing. One can’t help but notice the increase in online platforms and many podcasters and an even larger number of amateur on-liners, there are professional E bloggers and Podcasters, but they are outnumbered by the amateurs who are lured into streaming live by their mobile phones.

Many steaming software companies are all pushing their programs.

I will finish off by thanking everyone for your messages of congratulation on my “Honours and Awards Investiture ceremony held at Government house on Monday 29th June, means a lot to me and my family.

With this, I would like to say, Good Bye, Until next month, Happy Reading and stay safe.

—Umesh Chandra OAM

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A CITY WITHOUT WALLS

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au

Dear reader is it with much joy we bring to you the word of God. We all have the desire to go higher in life.

We have individual goals and destinations we want to get to. The good news is that you have both the potential and the capability to do so.

And if we are to reach our goals, then one thing we have to work hard at and put a demand on is selfcontrol and self-discipline.

Without self-control, we get upset when we feel like we get angry when we want to, we say things on impulse, we think thoughts without control, we listen to words without restraint, we watch things without restriction.

In the scriptures (Proverbs 25v28), we read, “A person without self-control or selfdiscipline is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” This was written by King Solomon, and in his day, a strong wall represented a strong city. People invested, worked hard, and prepared those walls. Strong walls meant they were not exposed

to their enemies.Self-control and self-discipline are not our enemies, but weapons God has given to us. When we have astrong inner person, then we will have a strong outer person. Instead of letting our emotions and feelings from running wild in our lives, we can keep a lid on these. The only person we are to have control over is ourselves. Let other people control themselves.

You cannot live for others.

Letting other people control our emotions and feelings is a sign of weak and brokendown walls in our lives. This will keep us exposed and restrict us from rising higher.

We read in the book of Genesis chapter 39, how Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers, was

now working for Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. The Lord was with Joseph, and Potiphar had made him in charge of his house. Joseph was young and good looking, and Potiphar’s wife wanted to get close to him. But Joseph kept a lid on his feelings and emotions. He made it clear that he could not sin against God. One day she grabbed his garment, but Joseph ran outside. He was falsely accused and put in prison. People didn’t see the walls that Joseph had built, but God saw it. Soon he was taken out of jail and installed as the Prime Minister over Egypt.

Here are 3 things we can learn from Joseph.

1) When you control what

you think, you control what you do. Joseph knew that if he was to act right, then he must think right. In his mind, it was settled that he must honour God in everything he did. He could not act wrong when he was thinking right.

Since he could not do any wrong, he escaped from the woman. In the same way you can chose to react from other people’s actions. Having selfcontrol means you won’t react how others feel about you, but how you feel about them.

2) Education can get you into a position. But it takes self-discipline and selfcontrol to get you promoted from that position. Joseph could have remained a slave all his life in Potiphar’s house. But through self-

discipline, his character was being developed. So, when Pharaoh needed someone to rule over his people in Egypt, he picked Joseph. My challenge is that you do not be like someone with no selfcontrol. Let self-control take roots in your life to build character on the inside of you.

3) It is not the size of the enemy, but the strength of the wall that determines whether you are going to win or lose. Having strong selfdiscipline always ensures your victory. It keeps you unexposed from your enemy of worry, fear, self-defeating thoughts, and a negative mindset. So make every effort to keep those walls up in your life.

God bless you

Affordable Robinson Crusoestyle Thai holiday rates

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4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

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Partner Visa’s The Department of Home Affairs allows Australian Citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their married or de facto partners on the basis of their genuine and ongoing relationship.

Partner visas are generally processed in two stages in Australia.

Sponsored applicants must hold a provisional visa, a Partner (Temporary) visa, in order to be granted a permanent visa, a Partner (Residence) visa. The grant of the provisional visa enables them to travel to and remain in Australia on a temporary basis.

Following the grant of a temporary visa, a permanent visa may be granted where the decision-maker is satisfied the relationship has been ongoing for at least 2 years and is genuine and continuing.

In some circumstances, the Department of Home Affairs may grant a waiver for the 2-year waiting period or grant permanency even where the relationship has broken down before the end of the 2-year period.

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visa, which will allow them to stay in Australia whilst the visa is being processed.

Alternatively, a partner visa may be lodged and granted offshore (subclass 309/100).

Applicants will be required to show that together with their partner, they have a genuine commitment to a shared life together. This may be evidenced through financial interdependence, social context, nature of the household, nature of commitment to each other, and history of relationship.

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A Larger Slice of Life - Sadhguru, Isha Foundation Balarama asked Krishna a question when they had to leave Mathura and were going through all kinds of hardship: “Why are all these things happening to us, and that too with you around?”

Krishna’s answer was, “Don’t you complain when life is happening to you in great measure. It is because you look at certain situations as good and others as bad, or certain situations as desirable and others as undesirable, that you ask yourself why these things are happening to you rather than just seeing life as life.”

The moment you step into the spiritual stream, your inner situation is on fast-forward – you are in a hurry to get to your ultimate destination. You do not want it to take a hundred lifetimes so everything is on fastforward. If you do not identify one thing as good and another thing as bad, you will see there is no such thing as good and bad. Life is happening in great intensity – that is all. Some people enjoy it, some suffer it.

I am talking about life as life is, life as creation is. Right now, most people consider many things as life that actually have nothing to do with life in

A spiritual person does not look at events as good and bad – you are only concerned about how intensely life is happening to you. Good and bad are social phenomena – they have nothing to do with life. If you maintain equanimity, you will see every event that happens in your life will bring you a step forward.

If you don’t see this, if you get influenced by your social situations, then because of the pace at which life is happening, you may think something is going wrong with your life, which is not so.

The moment you step into the spiritual stream, your inner situation is on fast-forward – you are in a hurry to get to your ultimate destination. You do not want it to take a hundred lifetimes so everything is on fast-forward. a deeper sense. People who do not have a car think people who have one are fortunate. It is definitely comfortable and convenient, but it is not a great fortune. If there

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

were no cars at all, no one would desire to have one. The problem is in comparing yourself with others. This has nothing to do with reality – it is a mental condition. All

suffering comes from that insanity.

A spiritual person does not look at events as good and bad – you are only concerned about how intensely life is happening

to you. Good and bad are social phenomena – they have nothing to do with life. If you maintain equanimity, you will see every event that happens in your life will bring you a step forward. If you don’t see this, if you get influenced by your social situations, then because of the pace at which life is happening, you may think something is going wrong with your life, which is not so.

If you want to be spiritual, fundamentally, it means you want to end yourself, the way you are right now. A positive way of putting it is, you are seeking liberation. You are seeking your ultimate nature; you are seeking God; you want to become unbounded. When you

want to be boundless, you want to cease to exist the way you are right now.

Once you express this wish and the necessary energy is invested in you, things will happen to end you the way you are right now. This does not mean negative things will happen to you. It is just that life will move on fast-forward, at a tremendous pace.

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and a New York Times bestselling author Sadhguru has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India in 2017, the highest annual civilian award, accorded for exceptional and distinguished service.

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2020 Varalakshmi Vratam 31st July 2020 About Goddess Varalakshmi Varalakshmi Puja day is one of the significant days to worship the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

Varalakshmi, who is the consort of Lord Vishnu, is one of the forms of Goddess Mahalakshmi. Varalakshmi was incarnated from the milky ocean, popularly known as Kshir Sagar. She is described as having the complexion of milky ocean and adorns similar color clothes.

It is believed that the Varalakshmi form of the goddess bestows boons and fulfills all desires of her devotees. Hence this form of the goddess is known as Vara + Lakshmi i.e. Goddess Lakshmi who bestows boons.

About Varalakshmi Vrat The Varalakshmi fasting is observed on the last Friday during Shravana Shukla Paksha and falls just few days ahead of Rakhi and Shravana Purnima.

Varalakshmi Vrat is suggested not only for women but also for men.

However, in Andhra, Telangana and Maharashtra regions, Varalakshmi fasting in mainly performed by married women only.

The Varalakshmi fasting is performed with the desire of worldly pleasures and it includes children, spouse, luxury and all sorts of earthly pleasures.

Varalakshmi Vratam is very popular fasting and Puja day in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. In

these states, Varalakshmi Puja is performed mostly by married women for the well-being of husband and the other family members. It is believed that worshipping Goddess Vara-Lakshmi on this day is equivalent to worshipping Ashtalakshmi i.e. the eight Goddesses of Wealth (Sri), Earth (Bhu), Learning (Saraswati), Love (Priti), Fame (Kirti), Peace (Shanti), Pleasure (Tushti) and Strength (Pushti).

However, in North Indian states Varalakshmi Puja is not as popular as those of South Indian states.

Varalakshmi Vratam is one of the most appropriate days to propitiate and to seek blessings of the Goddess Lakshmi.

Varalakshmi Puja Muhurat As per Electional Astrology, the most appropriate time to worship Goddess Lakshmi is during fixed Lagna. It is believed that if Lakshmi Puja is done during fixed Lagna would bestow long-lasting prosperity.

Hence we have given four Puja timing in a day when fixed Lagna prevails.

Any suitable time can be chosen for Varalakshmi Puja.

However, evening time which overlaps with Pradosh is considered the most appropriate to worship Goddess Lakshmi.

Varalakshmi Vratam is very popular fasting and Puja day in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.

In these states, Varalakshmi Puja is performed mostly by married women for the wellbeing of husband and the other family members are similar to Maha Lakshmi Puja during Diwali. However it includes Puja steps and Mantra for Dorak and Vayana. The sacred thread which is tied during Varalakshmi Puja is known as Dorak and sweets offered to Varalakshmi is known as Vayana.

Please check detailed Varalakshmi Puja Vidhi with all rituals as described in religious books.

Varalakshmi Puja Vidhi The Puja steps in Varalakshmi Puja Vidhi

Varalakshmi Vratam on Friday, July 31, 2020 Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat (morning) - 07:25 AM to 08:53 AM Duration - 01 Hour 29 Mins VrishchikaLagna Puja Muhurat (afternoon) - 11:56 AM to 01:52 PM Duration - 01 Hour 56 Mins Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat (evening) - 06:26 PM to 08:42 PM Duration - 02 Hours 16 Mins VrishabhaLagna Puja Muhurat (midnight) - 01:15 AM to 03:33 AM, Aug 01 Duration - 02 Hours 18 Mins 10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

Honours and Awards Investiture Ceremony

Government House, Queensland, Monday 29th June His Excellency the honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland, and Mrs Kaye de Jersey conducted an Investiture ceremony at Government House. The honours and Investiture ceremony was originally planned to be held in May, but with the coronavirus pandemic it had been postponed.

All awardees were forwarded the lapel pins for their immediate use and were instructed to use their postnominals from the date of announcement. Under the current circumstances the ceremonies were very personalised.

Awardees enjoyed the individual attention at the ceremony.

Small groups were given different times of the day for their ceremonies, strict screening protocols were in place for the awardees and there four guests.

Umesh Chandra attended the ceremony with his wife, Usha Chandra, son Sanjay Chandra, Daughter in law Anoushka Chandra and Granddaughter Ishana Chandra. It was indeed a proud moment for the family. Umesh Chandra has been recognised globally for his community work, Umesh and Usha both hail from families who were always active in community work, so to them this work was a natural progression.

Umesh Chandra recalled that his first official visit to Government house was a special lunch function,

Call: 07 38656533

while he was serving as the president of Hindu Society of Queensland. He has had numerous official visits

after that time with many organisations that he hasbeen involved with over the years.

www.indiantimes.com

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 11

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland

VEDAS- THE DIVINE KNOWLEDGE

The Sat Sanatan Vedic Dharam regards VEDAS as the final authority in all matters. Whatever is in the VEDAS is supreme ,it is the self luminous light which needs no other light to establish its validity or identity-it is known as the absolute authority or self evident testimony.

The VEDAS are the source of knowledge and being of divine origin they contain all branches of learning. There is nothing related to human life, material or spiritual which has not been referred to in the VEDAS. The language that the Vedas are written in is not peculiar at any single country or race. Vedic Dharam practises the teachings of the four VEDAS the most ancient scriptures of the earth.

There is nothing in it that contradicts the universally accepted laws of science.

The Vedas are not meant for any particular religion,sect or faith,Their teachings are universal ,relevant at all times and are for ALL mankind. In fact these books contain morals, principles and teachings for the welfare of the entire humanity. The entire human race is entitled to read the VED mantras, meditate on them,practice in life and improve the quality

of life with progressive, truthful and happy existence leading an individual to rise above the material worldly level to the highest spiritual destination called Moksh.

Almighty GOD revealed VEDAS or Divine, ईश्वरीय ज्ञान, GODLY, दिव्य, श्रेष्ठ ज्ञान knowledge to the four Rishis or the sages and they passed it on without in any way discriminating between man and woman or between man and man on grounds of caste, creed or colour. VEDAS are not only the most valued, genuine and sacred books but are also the first and foremost books of world literature.

The VEDAS were revealed by the Parmeshwar to the four Rishis Agni, Vayu, Aditya and Angira in the beginning of the human shrishti while they were in deep meditation.

Among all men, those four Rishis alone were purest in heart, therefore, GOD revealed the true knowledge to them only. The message revealed was not in any country’s language as it is for the whole of humanity and not for a particular country or sect. Hence it was revealed in Sanskrit. The VEDAS were then taught to Maharishi Brahma Ji by the four Rishis making him the first teacher to know and preach all four VEDAS.

VEDAS are divine.

(1) VEDAS FOR ALL VEDAS do not belong to any particular community, caste, country or religion.

They are meant for all mankind. GODs creation is for one and all.

(2) Harmony with Nature There is nothing in the VEDAS that is contrary to what is seen in nature. The VEDAS contain knowledge about matter and spirit which tally well with creation.

(3) Scientific, Logical and Rational The knowledge contained in the VEDAS is matching/ corresponding with the principles of natue and science.There is nothing in the VEDAS that goes against what is observed in the creation.This is because VEDAS and creation are from the same source.The VEDAS contain seeds of all sciences.

They donot contain anything that contradicts the law of nature.

(4) ALL ENCOMPASSING The VEDAS cover all aspects of creation.They mention about humanities, economics, political and social sciences, earth sciences and all other disciplines

आप का कल्याण हो सकता है

आज लोग शांति आनंद प्रसन्नता तो चाहते हैं , परं तु उसकी प्राप्ति के लिए तपस्या करना नहीं चाहते; यह तो असंभव है ।* लोग आज की स्थिति में बहुत चिंतित परे शान दख ु ी एवं अवसादग्रस्त दिखाई देते हैं । जिसका परिणाम लड़ाई झगड़े आत्महत्या तथा अन्य अपराधों में वृद्धि के रूप में दिखाई दे रहा है । क्योंकि *आज के मनुष्यों में स्वार्थ अविद्या राग द्वेष ईर्ष्या जलन अभिमान आदि दोष बहुत बढ़ गए हैं । ये सारे दोष दख ु देने वाले हैं । चिंताओं को बढ़ाने वाले और जीवन का विनाश करने वाले हैं । न जाने लोग इस रहस्य को कब समझेंगे?* और आज से 20/ 30/ 40 वर्ष पहले लोग बड़े प्रसन्न शान्त संतोषी और आनन्दित थे, तपस्वी/ सहनशील थे। आपस में सेवा सम्मान

परोपकार की भावना त्याग की भावना सहनशीलता आदि गुणों से युक्त थे। *उस समय भले ही धन संपत्ति मोटर गाड़ियां मकान और भोग के

अन्य साधन कम थे, परं तु लोग सुखी शांत प्रसन्न एवं निर्भय थे।* आज ये सब गुण प्रायः समाप्त से हो गए हैं । आज धन संपत्ति मकान मोटर गाड़ी साक्षरता ऊंचा पद आदि अनेक सुविधाएं होते हुए भी, कुल मिलाकर परिणाम निम्न ही है ।। *इसलिए अपने बड़े बुजुर्गों के जीवन आचार विचार का स्मरण करके उनके उत्तम गुणों को धारण करें । धन संपत्ति भोग के साधनों को कम महत्त्व दें । सेवा त्याग परोपकार सहनशीलता आदि गुणों को अधिक महत्त्व दें । इन गुणों को अपने जीवन में धारण करें । भोगवादी जीवन से बचकर स्वाभाविक सरल प्राकृ तिक आध्यात्मिक जीवन जीएँ। तो आप का कल्याण हो सकता है ।* ओ३म ् -*स्वामी विवेकानंद परिव्राजक जी*

मतृ ्यु डर से बचने का उपाय *मृत्यु से डर लगता है ? लीजिये, इस डर से बचने का उपाय प्रस्तुत है ।* वेद और वैदिक शास्त्रों में आत्मा के विषय में बताया गया है कि - *आत्मा अमर है . आत्मा कभी मरती नहीं है , क्योंकि यह उत्पन्न भी नहीं होती।* संसार में कुछ मोटे मोटे नियम हैं , *जो वस्तु उत्पन्न होती है , वह वस्तु नष्ट भी होती है । जो वस्तु उत्पन्न नहीं होती, वह वस्तु नष्ट भी नहीं होती।* यदि हम इन नियमों को थोड़ा गहराई से समझने का प्रयत्न करें , तो हमारी बहुत सी चिंताएं तनाव भय और दख ु दरू हो सकते हैं । परं तु प्रायः लोग गहराई से सोचते नहीं। अविद्या में ही पड़े रहते हैं । इसलिए जब जब मृत्यु जैसी घटनाएं होती हैं , तब तब अविद्या के कारण बहुत दख ु ी होते हैं । इन सारे दख ु ों से चिंताओं से डर से बचने का यही उपाय है कि संसार के नियमों को अच्छी प्रकार से समझ

लें, और इन्हें हृदय से स्वीकार कर लें। उदाहरण के लिए स्कू टर कार आदि वस्तुएं उत्पन्न होती हैं । इनका उपयोग करने पर, धीरे -धीरे इनमें घिसावट होती है । और घिसते घिसते एक दिन ये वस्तुएं नष्ट भी हो जाती हैं । इसी प्रकार से रोटी कपड़ा मकान आदि वस्तुएं ं भी उत्पन्न होती हैं । और धीरे -धीरे ये भी नष्ट हो जाती हैं । इस सत्य को तो सबने स्वीकार कर लिया। *ऐसे ही हमारा शरीर भी उत्पन्न हुआ है । यह भी एक दिन अवश्य ही नष्ट हो जाएगा। इस सत्य को लोग स्वीकार नहीं कर पाए।* *आप कितना भी प्रयत्न कर लेवें। कुछ भी खा लें, कुछ भी पहन लें, कुछ भी प्रबंध कर लें, इस उत्पन्न हुए शरीर को नहीं बचा सकते।* यह संसार का अटल नियम है । यदि इस नियम को आप हृदय से स्वीकार कर लेवें, और शरीर के मरने की मानसिक

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

तैयारी कर लेवें, तो आपको अपने शरीर के मरने का भय भी नहीं होगा, तथा दख ु भी नहीं होगा। और दस ू रों के शरीर के मरने का भी भय एवं दख ु नहीं होगा। *आप मृत्यु के भय से बच सकते हैं , मृत्यु से नहीं।* इसी प्रकार से *आत्मा कभी भी उत्पन्न नहीं हुआ। उत्पन्न न होने के कारण यह नष्ट भी नहीं होगा। चाहे कोई तोप का गोला मारे , चाहे एटम बम फेंक दे, तब भी आत्मा का कुछ नहीं बिगड़े गा। शरीर भले ही नष्ट हो जाएगा, परं तु आत्मा नहीं मरे गा। यह भी उतना ही सत्य है ।* यदि इस सत्य को भी हम हृदय से स्वीकार कर लेवें, तो मृत्यु से जरा भी भय नहीं लगेगा। इसलिये बार-बार इन बातों पर विचार चिंतन करें , आपका मृत्यु का भय दरू हो जाएगा। आत्मा एक शरीर छोड़कर, ईश्वर की कर्म फल व्यवस्था से, दस ू रा नया शरीर धारण कर लेगा, परं तु वह मरे गा नहीं। ओ३म ्

in which anyone may get interested in.They provide guideline for individuals and social life,domestic and family life,governance, worship, education and what not. They deal with PARMESHWAR GOD,nature and soul;, moral laws and so on. Being of divine origin they contain the germ of all branches of learning.

(5)UNIVERSAL APPROACH The VEDAS propagate universal outlook and approach.There are MANTRAS verses which instruct mankind to live like one family and adopt a common approach towards thought and action and live in peace and harmony.

(6)RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING / FROM CREATION VEDAS as the books of divine knowledge as well as the root of VEDIC Sanatan dharam .As you all know the

word “SANATAN” means right from the beginning.They are source of all succeeding VEDIC literature.

GOD ALMIGHTY has bestowed humans with knowledge for their progress and well being.

It is therefore natural to accept that this knowledge must have been given at the time of creation so that they may follow the path of righteousness.

VEDAS observes and conforms to all the requirement of a universal religion that is EQUALITY, UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD, HARMONIOUS DEVELOPMENT and SCIENTIFIC BASE We as a society should be mindful of enhancing moral and spiritual development of all.We cultivate strong ethical and moral values as well as advocate peaceful and productive human living always striving to be noble and united in our unwavering devotion to the Universal

Truth. We promote love, justice and righteousness towards all, irrespective of race, caste or creed, and follow the principles espoused in the VEDAS, which are universally true for all of mankind.

People of the world would want to attain salvation moksh because they love to have eternal joy and freedom from pain and suffering. In order to obtain the freedom of the soul from the physical body (birth and death) for a very long period of time it is absolutely important for all to study VEDIC literature and practice the teachings in real life with real effort. वेद ईश्वर प्रदत्त संसार का ,पूर्ण एवं हितकारी ज्ञान है ,जिसको धारण करने से प्रत्येक व्यक्ति को ही नहीं बल्कि प्राणी मात्र को सुख मिल सकता है । मनुष्यों को अपने जीवन को सफलता पूर्वक चलने के लिए जिस ज्ञान की आवश्यकता है वह ज्ञान वेद में है । प्राचीन ऋषियों, मुनियों तथा वेदज्ञ विद्वानों की के अनुसार वेद सब सत्य विद्याओं का स्रोत और भण्डार है , वेदो में समस्त विद्याओं का बीज पाया जाता है ।व्यक्ति की उन्नति के सारे सूत्र वेद में मिलते हैं । भोजन कैसा, कितना, तथा कैसे करना है , व्यायाम, संयम, सत्य, अहिं सा, दान, विद्या, पुरुषार्थ, आदि से व्यक्तित्व विकास, पुनर्जन्म, ईश्वर-जीव-प्रकृ ति का ज्ञान, ईश्वर की कर्मफल व्यवस्था तथा योग साधना द्वारा मोक्ष प्राप्ति केवल वेद से ही हो सकती है । धन्यवाद नमस्ते जी

Havan Yajna Agnihotra हवन यज्ञ, अग्निहोत्र

Nowadays it is really good to see many families perform Havan at home and on special occasion like birthdays, wedding anniversaries etc . The agnihotra (fire ceremony) havan yaj has been a very important part of all Vedic Hindu ceremonies since the beginning of time. Havan Yajna. is the most ancient form of Hindu prayer/ devotion/invocation.

Havan or fire ceremony is one of the most important rites laid down in the Vedic scriptures for householders and is part of the eternal Sanatan Vedic Dharm/ culture.

The benefits of agnihotra are multi-dimensional.

Spiritually, it has an enlightening effect on us because selected verses from the VEDAS and other Vedic literature are recited during the course of Yajna.

Other than enhancing intellectual agility, such regular recitation of so many important Vedic mantras leads to them being memorised.. Socially, it strengthens bonds between members of a family,Samaj or community because groups of people get together to carry it out communally. Hygienically, it has the effect of medicinal cleansing of air in the vicinity. Physically,

agnihotra also has an uplifting effect on the material domains of human life it encompasses all the meanings that are conveyed by the word YAJNA Yajna is the cornerstone of the Vedic way of life.

It is said to be the soul of the sixteen sanskaars (sacraments).Yajna is a very broad term-meaning Dev Pooja, Sangatikaran and Daan, Dev Poojaprayer to GOD, taking care of the elderly,the learned and performance of Havan; Sangatikaranin the company of wise people and Daan is donating to the needy.

Saam VED verse 1529 states-Aagne sthooram rayim bhar prithum gomantamashwinam.

Angdhi kham vartayaa pavim- meaning When Hawan is performed properly ,it purifies the air and the surrounding environment and provides clean rain water,sunlight

and contributes to increase in wealth.

Rig VED 3/32/12-Yajo hita indra vordhano bhutYajna is the means for the soul to refine itself and seek prosperity (salvation).

Yajur VED 18/11 says – Matischa mein sumatischa mein yajyen kalpantaam meaning Humans ordinary intellect can be successfully transformed into super intellect through the conduct of daily yajnas.

Shatpathbrahman 1/7/1/5 states “Yajao vei shreshthatam karma”Yajna is the most noble of deeds.

With many benefits and in this battle for achieving the goal of getting pollution-free environment,we all should keep performing Havan day after day as fellow human beings at home and other venues without any distinction of caste, creed, colour, region or religion.

For further information on Havan Satsang program at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre 198 Learoyd Road Willawong QLD 4110 please contact Vice President Mrs. Sushila Pathik 33146059.

APSQ Inc officials President: Dr. Sukhvir Singh 0421897157, Secretary: Mr. Hari Chand 0437430062,Treasurer: Mrs. Suman Chand 0401164232 ओ३म ्

“National Mental Health Month: an important reminder to all Australians that we need to pay due attention to raising much-needed awareness about mental health, to advocating for mental health, to educating ourselves about mental health, and to promoting mental wellbeing in our communities.”

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPERSON

Vasan Srinivasan

Chairperson Mental Health Foundation Australia

Call: 07 38656533

The Mental Health Foundation Australia is very excited to launch the National Mental Health Month Awareness Campaign 2020, occurring between the 1st and 31st of October. With 2020 being particularly hard on the mental health of Australians with the Bushfires and Covid-19, we believe National Mental Health Month can be an effective step towards getting Australians back on track with their mental health.

This year, the Foundation has organised numerous events across Australia, focussing on many different aspects in the area of mental health. To facilitate this task, the Foundation has implemented Australian Multicultural Ambassadors and Australian Youth Ambassadors programs, comprising of a dedicated network of volunteers across the country, with the aim to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues within culturally and linguistically diverse communities and generally within the Australian community. We are thankful to Mr Huss Mustafa and Commonwealth Bank for sponsoring this program and allowing for many multicultural communities to be reached all throughout Australia in our mission to provide ‘better mental health for all.’

During the National Mental

Health Month Awareness Campaign in 2020, the MHFA has organised Mental Health Wellbeing Walks across all states and territories on the same day and at the same time.

We anticipate this to be the most successful event during National Mental Health Month, providing the opportunity to reach out to many Australians of many cultural backgrounds.

National Mental Health Month 2020 consists of a plethora of events across Australia, to attract as many individuals to get involved as possible. We anticipate a very positive mental health awareness campaign of many to come. The Foundation believes with each year, our work can raise more mental health awareness and reduce the frequency of debilitating mental health illnesses many Australians struggle with. I thank all my board members, staff members, multicultural and youth ambassadors, volunteers and well-wishers of the Foundation for their hard work and dedication towards organising all the events within this year’s National Mental Health Month awareness campaign.

With your support, we can achieve many great things for this nation’s future regarding the reduction of mental health issues and the stigma that shadows them. Remember, #MentalHealthMatters.

www.indiantimes.com

Mental Health Matters ~ Events ~

The theme for this year’s National Mental Health Month Awareness Campaign is Mental Health Matters.

This theme encapsulates and highlights the gravity of the topic of mental health, and how important it is to address in the Australian community. With this theme in mind, we aim to extend our campaign even wider than previous years, with events planned to embrace many different community groups and people of all ages to raise awareness that #MentalHealthMatters.

Visit the website for more information: https://www.mhfa.org. au/CMS/national-mental-healthmonth-2020 Note: All events subject to COVID-19 restrictions

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 13

Marking elder abuse: Baghban-The Gardner – Shame on children who abuse their parents

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT

June 15 was International ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY - and the week was dedicated to this subject.

I republish my earlier article where I raised my concerns about shameful acts of Indians and FijiIndians who indulge in this shameful practice. This article is to mark that awareness day that was last month.

It is a matter of bigger shame because all our religious scriptures and discourse by local and visiting Swamis sing glory to parents. Yet many of us are first-class hypocrites.

And this is not only prevalent in NZ, but also where our people have settled like in Australia, Canada, USA and even Fiji.

Read this eye-opener article to the end, with Amitabh Bachchan’s translated dialogue from hit movie BAGHBAN on parental abuse Baghban, the Gardner, the Mali, is a Bollywood movie that immortalized obligations and responsibilities of children to their ageing parents, and raised great awareness of this evil in our community.

The Northern hemisphere (America, Canada) just marked Father’s day last month. Our Eastern religions and movements (Hindu, Islam, Sikh, Sai, Hare Rama etc) sing high glories to our elderly parents and aged people. Our scriptures are abound with good things we need to do to our aged in order to find

salvation.

Yet, we seem to be the biggest hypocrites when we cannot walk our talk on treatment of our elders, our parents and close senior relatives. There are many forms of abuse within our communities such as financial exploitation, where migrants use elders as baby sitters and discard them when not needed.

Or using up their pensions to pay off their mortgage or for their expensive lifestyle.

The abuse takes other various forms. They are: physical abuse, psychological and emotional, financial, scam by strangers, sexual, neglect and abandonment.

Elder abuse (also called "elder mistreatment," "senior abuse,") is a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person."

The core element to the harm of elder abuse is the "expectation of trust" of the older person toward their abuser. Thus, it includes harms by people the older person knows, or have a relationship with, such as children, a spouse, partner or family member, a friend or neighbour, or people that the older person relies on for services. In my case, I priorities abuse of parents by their children.

I personally know of an Indian elder coupler who went back to his home country because his daughter-in-law was abusive of his elderly wife. And the last time I visited their home before their departure, that daughter-inlaw (patohia, bahu) was reciting Satya Narayan Pooja to the family.

Hypocrisy comes in many forms.

When asked why this was not brought to the attention of the son, the father replied that he did not wish to cause discord in his son’s family. Hence, many swallow their

tears for happiness in their sons’ marriages.

Indian Cinema and Bollywood has made many exceptional movies to depict this some older ones include ‘Ghar Basake Dekho” (Try to raise a family), and“Aap Ki Parchaaiyan (your shadows). But the latest one, Amitabh- Hema’s Baghban (The gardener) seems to have greater effect on our community.

“Baghban”, the Amitabh Bacchan movie on old age depicted obligations of children to their ageing parents. This movie was reported to have uplifted and pricked the conscience of some children who have ignored their obligations to their ageing parents who sacrificed their happiness and worldly pleasures for a better future of their children.

Below I present a rough translation of a father’s lament at the treatment his children had given him, and some lessons of the old and new.

This is memorable Amitabh Bacchan dialogue from that movie.

“Today, I am going to talk about…conflict arising between the days gone by and the days to come… about the broken relations between two generations. It’s about the drooping shoulders on which some children had once sat to see the world….about the trembling hands that once held the hands of their children as they taught them to walk…about the parched lips that once sang lullabies . But which have been silenced now.

Times have changed... life has changed. If people of my generation will recall we were always caught up in ties and in relations that yielded nothing.

Our father was God. At our mothers’ feet lay heaven. And now… now people have become very sensible. The new generation is very clever and practical.

For them, every relation is like a ladder on which they will step to rise further in life. But when they have no use for the ladder anymore, with the rest of broken furniture in the house, old vessels, old clothes and newspapers, (kachra) they are dumped in the attic. (khalibotal, khalidabba) However, life does not take you up like a ladder. Life grows like a tree.

Parents are not the first step on a ladder. Parents are the soul of one’s life – they are roots of life.

However big the tree is, however green and filled it is, it can’t stand on its own once its roots are hacked.

With all humility and respect, I ask today, the children for whose

happiness a father spends every penny of his hard – earned money with a smile, those very children when the father’s eye-sight weakens, why they hesitate in giving them light?

If a father can help his son to take the first step in his life, why cannot the son give his father support when he is taking the last few steps of his life?

What crime is it of the parents who have devoted all their lives to their children that they are given tears and loneliness? If they cannot give us any love, who gives them the right to snatch love from us?

What do these children think?

The parents God has united in love, can they separate and force them to lead a life of misery and despair? Is it for a day like this that a man seeks children?

Children perhaps forget what is our present today will be their present tomorrow. If we are old today they will also grow old someday.

The question we ask today, they will ask tomorrow.”

Indeed, an eye - opener for the children who have been abusing

their elderly parents in one way or the other. God does not reside in dead statues in temples or other religious institutions, or dancing to music of keertan or bhajans, or running Ramayan mandalis.

God resides at the feet of your ageing parents. Please some people, stop acting like first class hypocrites, dhongees.

Please, make a start. You will grow older, and the questions we elderly ask today, you will ask tomorrow…

My prayers for the parents.. jabtak hai ke akashpe chand sitaare, bhagwaansalamatrahe, maapaaphamaare…. (till we have sun and moon in the skies, we pray to Lord to give good life to our parents….song from ‘Aap Ki Parchaiyan) Even if one son learns from this, my objective would have been achieved. Hail our elders and parents.

[About the author: Thakur Ranjit Singh runs FIJI PUNDIT blogsite, is a community worker, a journalist, a media commentator and raises issue affecting our community and speaks up without fear or favour- E- mail: thakurji@xtra.co.nz]

Adam who was formed out of the dust of the earth, became a living being as a direct intent of the Awesome Creator God. Our DNA carries all the attributes that are required to live in eternity.

But we as humans, have to make a choice to restore the broken relationship with God because of our sin infected nature. The Bible says “All have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory”. But God in His perfect love and wisdom made the way to restore fallen humanity.

This is the good news Jesus came to share and demonstrate. Jesus paid ransom of His own life to reconcile all of us. God lives in eternity and invites the humble and contrite people. We need to repent our wrong ways and receive the awesome gift of God’s salvation message.

First, we need to understand that God is not an object or an image or an imagination of human mind.

God is a living and loving Person.

His awesome nature and charac-ters

are unchanging from generation to generation. We find this amazing truth re-vealed through the pages of The Holy Bible.

Therefore, we invite you to pray this with a sincere heart; ‘Dear Father God, today I thank you for your word that has touched my heart. I re-pent of my wrongs and I confess with my mouth that Jesus is Lord and I believe in my heart that Jesus died for my sins, God raised Jesus from the dead for my Mukti (Salvation). Blood of Jesus has reconciled me to the loving relationship with my creator.

Now help me to know Jesus more and more so that I can grow in the knowledge of your grace and mercy.

Teach me your ways so that I can be a person who will learn to honour you and learn to love each other’. Amen Please email to us your encounter experience, so we can help you to grow in the un-derstanding your Creator and Redeemer. navig8grace@ gmail.com

Anchor for my soul…

Key Scripture: "This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary." Hebrews 6:19, CSB: "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.” Hebrews 6:19, NLT

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Dear Reader, We are here to remind you of God’s great advise in the middle of global crisis of COVID-19. The Word of the Lord teaches how to live this life with sure hope with absolute confidence. This is the critical time in the history of humanity; all of us need to pay careful attention to the Word of the Lord. And understand God’s perspective in the view of this global pandemic. Let us learn to look at this crisis and understand the purpose for the strong and trustworthy Anchor for our soul.

I am reminded of this beautiful worship song that expresses the promise of the cross to the suffering humanity. I encourage you to listen to this song and let the worship music touch your soul and silence all fears of this Virus pandemic storms.

I have this hope

As an anchor for my soul Through every storm I will hold to You With endless love All my fear is swept away In everything I will trust in You There is hope in the promise of the cross You gave everything to save the world You love And this hope is an anchor for my soul Our God will stand unshakable Songwriters: Ben Fielding / Dean Usher Anchor lyrics © Hillsong Music Publishing Australia

Why do we need an Anchor for our soul?

Our life is a journey. From our mother’s womb to our tomb, we keep

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

moving with many seasons in our life. There are seasons of celebrations and seasons of storms. Most people know to celebrate and have good time and fun. But many people are not sure how to handle the storms of life. Storms of life are going to come to all people. We can’t escape from it. But we can be prepared to face it with a fearless spirit.

Therefore we need an Anchor for our soul, which will hold us to be strong and steady during the storms.

Anchors are designed to keep the boats drifting away. The Anchor hooks on to something strong under the bed of the sea. It reaches and sinks to the place where you can’t go and can’t see. But the other end of the Anchor is attached to your life boat.

Christ is that Anchor. You may not see him or feel Him. But when you trust Him with all your heart and mind;

you are anchoring your soul into an unshakable rock.

The Word of God is strong and steady and gives hope to all generations of humanity. People throughout the human history have found that Christ is an Anchor for their soul. He is strong, steady and faithful to all who trust in Him. He anchors into your soul through faith in your heart and confession of His promises through your mouth.

Do you have this unfailing, unshakable hope during this pandemic season?

Do you want to learn to live by faith and not in fear?

Dear friend, you are very precious to God who is the Creator of heaven and earth, and who longs to connect with you today. His word and His love is real and worthy of your worship.

When you are in lock down season, it is great time to kneel down and seek the meaning of life. You are created for eternal purpose, you are not an accidental cosmic speck floating in this universe randomly.

God has good plan for you. Plan to prosper you and give you hope filled future.

When God created the human kind, God breathed a ‘Breath of Life’.

आज कोरोना के इस दौर में हमने मृत्यु को इतने क़रीब से महससू किया है कि हर पल इसके पास होने का अहसास बना हुआ है। जीवन मे एक बात तो निश्चय ही होनी है, वह है हर अेक की मृत्यु । इससे कोई नही बच सकता, पीर पैग़म्बर औलिया हो या फिर स्वयं प्रभू जब धरती पर अवतार लेकर आते है तब उन्हे भी एक दिन इस श्रष्टी को छोड़कर जाना पड़ता है। इतना सबकुछ जानते हुअे भी हर इसं ान को मौत से डर लगता है, कोई भी मरने को तैयार नही है। हम सब आख़िरी साँस तक मृत्यु से लड़ना पसंद करते हैं।यहाँ तक कि हम उसका नाम तक लेना नही चाहते। कोई मर जाता है तो हम कहते है वह स्वर्गवासी हो गया, वह प्रभू को प्यारा हो गया, या फिर वह इस दुनिया को छोड़कर चला गया। पर हम सीधे सीधे कभी नही कहते हैं कि फ़लाँ आदमी मर गया। हम अपने मन का भय छपाने के लिये कहते हैं कि हम तो मरने वाले को सम्मानित कर रहे हैं। दोस्तों क्या सचमचु मृत्यु इतनी भयावनी है, कि हर कोई कहे या ना कहे पर मृत्यु से हर कोई डरता है। आप बताये आपको इस दुनिया में सबसे प्यारी वस्तु क्या है? इस दुनिया में हर इसं ान को नींद सबसे प्यारी होती है, बस मृत्यु न खल ु ने वाली मीठी और गहरी नींद है। जिसमें सोने वाला फिर जागता नही है। यह इतना ही सरल है, जैसे साँप चलते चलते परु ानी कें चल ु ी ज़मीन पर छोड कर नयी कें चल ु ी ओडकर आसानी से आगे बढ जाता है।मृत्यु के बाद हर दर्द हर तकलीफ़ पीछे छूट जाती है। जिन्दगी में आप भले ही किसी दख ँू रहे हों, ु या भयानक दर्द से झझ पर मृत्यु के बाद सारे दख ु दर्द ख़त्म हो जाते

हैं।इसं ान मौत से अैसे डरता है जैसे छोटा बच्चा अधं रे े से डरता है क्यों कि हर कोई अनजान ख़तरे से घबराता है। हमें पता ही नही होता कि मरते समय हमारी हालत क्या होगी जब मृत्यु अपना शिकनजा हम पर कसेगी तब हम कितनी तकलीफ़ में होगें हम नही जानते यही कारण है कि हर कोई मौत से घबराता है और अपने प्यारों के मरने पर मातम मनाता है। परु ाने ज़माने में लोग दरू देशों से चलकर नये देश ढूँढ कर वहाँ पर अपने देश की क़ीमती और अनमोल चीज़ें बेचने के लिये लेकर आते थे और फिर जाते समय अुस देश की नायाब और बेहतरीन चीज़ें ख़रीदकर ले जाते थे। अैसा ही एक मसु ाफिर नये देश पहुचँ ा और वह अुस बड़े शहर के सबसे अमीर और इमानदार व्यक्ति को ढूँढने लगा जो शहर को जानता हो और उसकी नायाब चीज़ें हिफ़ाज़त से अपने पास रख सके । वहाँ पहुचँ कर उसने देखा सेठ के पिता का देहांत हो गया था सारे लोग रोकर मातम मना रहे थे। अर्थी उठने के समय पर भी अर्थी को पकड़ कर उसे ले जाने की अनमु ति नही दे रहे थे। यह देखकर दरू देश से आया व्यापारी वापस लौटने लगा। सेठ जी को उसके आने की ख़बर मिल गयी थी वो इतनी बड़ी आसानी को जाता देखकर सब छोड़कर उसके पास आया, उससे रूकने की प्रार्थना करने लग।तब व्यापारी ने कहा मैं इस देश मे रूकना ही नही चाहता क्यों कि जो लोग भगवान की दी हुई अमानत इस नाशवंत शरीर को लौटाते वक्त इतना रोना धोना करते हैं वे इसं ान की दी हुई अमानत को तो ईमानदारी से लौटा ही नही सकते।हमारे देश में जब कोई मर जाता है तो हम खुशी से उसका श्रृंगार करते हैं उसे गाजे बाजे के

"मतृ ्यु के बाद क्या " साथ विदा करते है और प्रभू का शुक्रिया अदा करते हैं कि उसने इतना समय अपनी अमानत हमारे पास भेजी ताकि हम उससे कुछ सीख सकें ।

श्री कृ ष्ण ने भी गीता में कहा है इसं ान जिस तरह अपने परु ाने कपड़े बदलकर नये कपड़े पहनता है उसी तरह इसं ान इस शरीर को छोड देता है। आत्मा अमर है, उसे न कोई मार सकता है, न जला सकता है।इसं ान के विचार, गणु अवगणु , अच्छाइयाँ बरु ाइयाँ, उसकी भावनायें उसकी समझबझू सब कुछ उसके साथ होती है। इसं ान मरने के बाद भी हमारे बीच रहता है। श्री रामकृ ष्ण परमहसं जी जब इस दुनिया को छोड़कर चले गये तो उनकी पत्नी सरादामनी अपनी चड़िय ू ाँ तोड़ने लगी तब उसने श्री रामकृ ष्ण परमहसं जी की आवाज़ सनु ी वह घबरा गयी सर उठाकर देखा तो श्री रामकृ ष्ण जी खड़े थे जो पिछली रात ही इस दुनिया को छोड गये थे। वे कह रहे थे सरादा सरादा यह तमु क्या कर रही हो मै मरा वही हू,ँ बस मैं एक कमरे से दसू रे कमरे में चला गया हू।ँ दोस्तों आप इसे शायद कहानी समझकर विश्वास ना करें पर दुनिया मे अैसे कई अनभु व लोगों को हुअे हैं। साधू जे .पी .वासवानी जी ने अपनी किताब लाईफ़ आफटर डैथ मे लिखा है ,यह सच है कि जो लोग मर चक ु े है वे जरूरत पड़ने पर हमारी मदद करने के लिये आते रहे हैं।कई बार वे अपनों के सपनों में आकर उन्हें सही रास्ता दिखाते हैं।अैसा ही सच्चा क़िस्सा अमेरिका में चैफिन विल के स Chaffin Will Case. मे हुआ। अमेरिका मे एक किसान रहता था जिसका नाम था J .C

.Chaffin उसके चार बेटे थे। नवम्बर १९०५ में उसने वसीयत बनायी जिसमें अपनी परू ी जायदाद अपने तीसरे बेटे के नाम कर दी।बाद में उसने अपना विचार बदला और जनवरी १९१९ में उसने अपनी वसीयत बदली और अब उसने अपनी परू ी जायदाद को चार बराबर हिस्सों में बाँटकर चारों बेटों के नाम कर दी। और चारों पर शर्त रखी कि चारों अपनी माँ का अच्छे से ख़्याल रखेंगे। चैफिन ने उस वसीयत को घर मे रखे बाईबल के दो पन्नों के बीच रखकर उन पन्नों को गौद से चिपका दिया।उसने इस वसीयत के बारे में किसीको नही बताया। अचानक ९१२१ में एक हादसे में उसकी मौत हो गयी। पहली वसीयत के कारण उसकी परू ी जायदाद उसके तीसरे बेटे को मिल गयी। उसके तीन बेटे कड़े परिश्रम के बाद भी गरीबी में जी रहे थे। चार साल गज़ ु र गये १९२५ जनू में चैफिन बार बार अपने दसू रे बेटे के सपनों में आकर बताने लगा कि उसने नयी वसीयत बनायी थी जिसे घर के बाईबल के दो पन्नों के बीच में रखकर उसने पन्नों को गौद से चिपका दिया था। उसे उस वसीयत को सबके सामने पढ़ना होगा। तब उस लड़के ने दो बुज़ुर्गों और भाईयों के सामने बाईबल के पन्नों के बीच से वसीयत को निकालकर पढ़ा ।कोर्ट में के स चला आख़िर में जज ने फ़तवा दी कि जायदाद को बराबर चार हिस्सों में बाँटकर चारों भाईयों में बाँट दीयाजाये। दसू री वसीयत उसकी आख़री वसीयत थी इस लिये वही वसीयत माननीय होगी।अैसी कई सच्ची दास्तानें हुई हैं, जहाँ आत्मा सपनों में आकर अपनों को सही राह दिखाती है।

यह तो हुई सपनों में आने की बात अब हम बात करें गे उन लोगों की जो क्लिनिकली मृत घोषित हो चक ु े होते है, पर फिर कुछ समय बाद उनकी साँसें लौट आती हैं और वे जीवित हो जाते हैं। कुछ लोग तो शमशान तक जाने के बाद उठकर खड़े हो गये हैं । कुछ समय पहले एक किताब छपी थी जिसने दुनिया में तहलका मचा दिया था । न जाने उस किताब के कितने एडिक्शन छपे। किताब का नाम था लाईफ़ आफटर लाईफ़ इस किताब का लेखक साईनटिस्ट और साईकाटरिस्ट है। उसका नाम है डा रे मडं Dr Raymond moody उसने अैसे सौ लोगों से बातचीत की, जो इस तरह के हालात से गज़ु र चक ु े थे। उनके अनभु व चौंकाने वाले थे। Dr Raymond moody जी कहते है पछ ू ने पर एक व्यक्ति ने बताया कि जब डाक्टर ने उसे मृत घोषित किया ,तो वह उसी रूम में था सबको देख और सनु सकता था।वह अपने शरीर को भी देख रहा था पर वह अपने को उससे अलग नही समझ रहा था। रिश्तेदार घर के लोग रोदन करने लगे, वह चाहता था कि मै उन्हे समझाऊँ कि मै तो यही हूँ उन्हे विर्लाप करते की कोई जरूरत नही है। मैं उन्हे देख और सनु पा रहा था पर जब मझु े समझ आया कि मेरी बात वे सनु नही रहे है तब मझु े अहसास हुआ कि मैं इस शरीर से अलग हू।ँ अब मैं इस शरीर में नही हू।ँ वह आगे बताता है कि शरीर से अलग होने के बाद मेरे सारे शारीरिक दर्द मिट गये। मैं खदु को हल्का फु ल्का महससू करने लगा मानो मैं हर दख ु हर तकलीफ़ हर बंधन से मुक्त था। दख ु से

,दर्द से दरू था। शरीर की हर तकलीफ़ से निजात मिल गयी थी। ग़मों के हर बोझ से मै आज़ाद हो गया था।इस धरती पर हम शरीर की बंधिशों में रहते हैं। कुछ लोग जो शमशान तक जाकर लौट आये है, उनके अनभु व और भी ज़्यादा गहरे हैं। उनका कहना है वे अपने मृत रिश्तेदारों से अैसे मिले मानो वे सब जीवित थे। इसके बाद का उनका अनभु व अद्भुत था।उन्होंने रोशनी के गोलों को घमू ते हुअे देखा मानो एक साथ हज़ारों सर्यू चमक रहे हो। अैसी रोशनी जो आम आँखों से देखना शायद सम्भव ना हो। उस रोशनी में नहाकर मेरी आत्मा मानो पवित्र हो गयी। उसके बाद मैंने ससं ार में बच्चपन से मरने तक जो भी काम किये थे । हर सीन चलचित्र की तरह मेरे सामने चलने लगी। मेरे बरु े और अच्छे कर्म, अैसे बरु े कृ त्य जिनके बारे में मैं समझता था कोई नही जानता, जिन्हें सोचकर भी मेरा सर शर्म से झक ु जाता था। मैं मानो उन्हें फिर से जी रहा था।अब मेरी आत्मा जो रोशनी में नहाकर अच्छे बरु े का फ़र्क़ कर रही थी वह शर्म से धरती में धँस रही थी। पछतावे के आँसू बहा रही थी। उस समय मझु े लगा यह जीवन प्रभू ने मझु े किसी ख़ास मक़सद के लिये दिया था। हाय! मैंने उसे यँू ही व्यर्थ गँवा दिया।उस समय हमारे पास पछताने और रोने के अतिरिक्त कुछ नही बचता। तब हम स्वयं अपनी सज़ा नियुक्त करते हैं। अपना प्रारलब्ध खदु बनाते हैं क्यों कि हमारी आत्मा उस समय पवित्र होती है।इस तरह हम मरते समय यह शरीर यहीं छोड देते हैं, और जब बच्चा जन्म लेता है तो वह नये रूप नये शरीर में आता है। कविता चाँदवानी ।

Kavita ji

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 15

Mahakavi Kalidas Princess Vidyottama was a highly educated maiden who had defeated many scholars in Shastrath, a debate on philosophical disciplines.

She was also arrogant and had declared a condition that she would only marry the person who could defeat her in Shastrath.

Her father, the king of Kashi, had instructed the Acharya of the Gurukul to look for a suitably educated groom who could meet the conditions set by his daughter for marriage. Many aspirants tried to win her hand through debate but were unsuccessful. Most of the aspiring candidates were products of the Gurukul and the whole educated community had become annoyed with the princess’ behaviour and wished to teach her a lesson.

One day while passing through a wooded area, the Acharya noticed a man on a tree, who was cutting the branch he was sitting on. The Acharya realised the woodcutter’s stupidity and decided to present him to the princess for debate.

He called the man down and found out that he was uneducated but interested in learning. The Acharya promised him that if he married the princess, she would certainly educate him. For marrying her, he had to participate in a debate with the princess.

During the debate, he should not speak, and should respond to any question through gestures only. The Acharya will take care of the rest. After initial disbelief, the person agreed to Acharya’s proposal.

The Acharya presented the new aspirant to the princess for debate, on condition that the debate would be through gestures only. His pretext was that the candidate was observing silence and could not speak that day.

The princess initiated the debate by raising her index finger. In response, the candidate pointed his two fingers at her. The Acharya interpreted their gestures.

One finger indicated that there was only one supreme God, whereas two fingers signified that there were two supreme powers comprising one the God and other the Soul.

Vidyottama was impressed.

Next, she showed him her palm with five spread fingers. In response, the aspirant showed her his fist.

The Acharya explained that the five fingers indicated the five senses whereas the fist indicated the importance of control over five senses.

Vidyottama accepted the candidate’s reasoning and married him.

In the night, when they met again, the princess asked her husband: Asti Kashchit Vagvisheshah? Is there anything specifically

intelligent that you can say? Her husband did not understand. He then told her truthfully his interpretation of the debate that took place earlier between them.

About gestures, he thought that she was threatening to poke his eye with one finger and so he responded to poke her both eyes by showing her two fingers. Regarding the show of palm with five spread fingers, he assumed that she was threatening to slap him. In response, he threatened to hit her with his fist. The princess realised that she had been cheated. In rage, she immediately expelled him from her palace.

Feeling hopeless and dejected, after wandering in the woods, the expelled husband entered into a pond to end his life by drowning. At that moment, he saw some people who had come to the pond to wash a goat for sacrifice to goddess Kali. He asked them to offer him to goddess as sacrifice instead of the goat. They refused, but he accompanied them to the Kali temple and prayed to the goddess. At the temple, he came in contact with educated people and scholars who took him under their guidance.

He studied under their tutelage for several years and eventually started writing poems and plays in Sanskrit. Being inspired by his devotion to goddess Kali, he became known as Kalidas. It is believed that he was a Shaivite, a follower of Shiva worship tradition.

He composed three great books with each of the words of Vidyottama’s question asked during their first meeting after marriage. From “asti” = asti-uttarasyaam dishi, he produced the epic “Kumarasambhavam”; from “Kashchit” = kashchit-kaantaa, he wrote the poem “Meghadutam” and from “Vagvisheshah”= vaagarthaaviva, he wrote the epic “Raghuvamsam”.

His creations were well received and he was recommended to present himself to king Vikramaditya. He travelled to Ujjain where king Vikramaditya appointed him a court poet. By this time, his name and fame had spread all over India.

Princess Vidyottama learnt about him and repented her rude behaviour towards him. She also travelled to Ujjain and reconciled with her husband Kalidas and assisted him in his future career.

There is no direct reference to his own life and time in his books.

Nature and scriptures such as the Mahabharat, the Ramayan and Purans are the major sources of ideas for his compositions, which appear to be relevant to all ages and to many places

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

and regions of India. In the absence of any specific information about his life, scholars from various parts of India claim that he originated from their region.

Subsequent poets, writers and scholars have referred to Kalidas’ name and works. Their commentaries have been used to establish facts about his life and time.

Many versions of tales are popular about him, including his marriage with Vidyottama.

It is believed that he was brought up in childhood by foster parents. He was not interested in his studies during childhood but played musical instruments skilfully.

He was evicted from his foster parents’ house and ended up in Kashi, where he survived by selling firewood. A girl from his village accompanied Kalidas after his expulsion from the village. She is recognised as the source of inspiration for Shringar Ras in his books.

Kumardas, a friend of Kalidas in Sri Lanka, invited him to read his plays to local audiences.

While reading the play Shakuntalam, an assassin attacked and killed him.

The dates of Kalidas have not been established conclusively, and range from second century BC to fifth century AD. Referring to his play Malavikagnimitram, in which king Agnimitra of Shung dynasty was a major character, some scholars claim that he lived in the second century BC. Analysing the use of word Vikram in his works, other scholars believe that Kalidas was a poet in the court of king Vikramaditya during the first century BC. Those who assume Vikramaditya of first century BC a mythological personality, assert Kalidas’s time during the reign of Chandragupta Second, who had assumed the title of Vikramaditya during the fourth-fifth century AD. Kalidas wrote

three plays titled Abhigyan Shakuntalam, Malavikagnimitram and Vikramovarshiyam; two epic poems Kumarasambhavam and Raghuvamsam; and two lyrical poems Meghadutam and Ritusamharanam.

The plot of Abhigyan Shakuntalam, The Recognition of Shakuntala, is based on the story in the Mahabharat. Shakuntala was an adopted daughter of sage Kanva who lived in a forest Ashram. During a hunting trip, King Dushyant arrived at the Ashram in search of water to quench his thirst. He saw Shakuntala at the Ashram and fell in love with her.

Sage Kanva was away from the Ashram. In his absence, they married according to the rituals of Gandharva Vivah, love marriage. The king presented Shakuntala with a ring and left to attend to an urgent task. Before leaving, he promised to come back to take her to his capital.

When Kanva returned, he learned by his Yogic power about the events in the Ashram. Shakuntala was pregnant and the king did not return to take her.

The sage sent Shakuntala, accompanied with his disciples and a matron, to the king. The king failed to recognise and accept her as his wife. Shakuntala left the palace, and went to a forest, where she gave birth to a baby boy named Sarvadaman.

One day a fisherman caught a fish and found a ring in it. It was the same ring, which the king had given to Shakuntala. She had lost it while crossing a river, during her journey from the Ashram to the palace.

The fisherman came to the king to sell the valuable ring, marked with a royal symbol. Seeing the ring triggered the king’s memories of his wedding to Shakuntala and he started a search for her.

During a trip to the forest, the king saw a boy playing with lion cubs. On further investigation it was revealed that the boy’s

mother was Shakuntala.

The king located her, and brought her and the boy to his capital. The boy was his son who was later named Bharat. He was a great ruler and the land of his kingdom was named Bharatvarsh, India.

Sir William Jones, an English judge in the court of East India Company, translated Abhigyan Shakuntalam into English, which was first published in Kolkata and then in Europe in 1790. Its German translation appeared in 1791 and French in 1803.

The play was well received

by European scholars, who started acknowledging the achievements of ancient Indian civilisation in literature and culture.

The play Malavikagnimitram, Malavika and Agnimitra, is about palace intrigues.

Agnimitra, a major character in the play, is a historical personality, who ruled Magadh between 149BC and 141BC. In the play, Malavika was a handmaiden of the chief queen of king Agnimitra.

She was very beautiful and attracted the attention of Agnimitra. The queen felt their attraction and imprisoned Malavika on some pretext. Later, it was revealed that Malavika was from a royal family and was released from imprisonment.

She subsequently wed the king.

The play Vikramovarshiyam, Vikram and Urvashi, is based on an ancient legend of king Pururava and nymph Uravashi. The myth originated in hymns in the Rig-Ved and has been amplified in subsequent scriptures.

The epic poem Kumarasambhavam, The Birth of Kumar, narrates the story of Kumar, also known as Skand and Kartikey, the son of Shiva and Parvati. It describes the wedding of Shiva and Parvati, the birth of Kumar, and the battle of Kumar with the demon Tarakasur, who had defeated deities and usurped their power.

Kumar finally defeated Tarakasur, and deities were restored to their positions.

Stories of the deities’ plan to incite Kama, the love god, to arouse love in the heart of Shiva towards Parvati, and destruction of Kama

by Shiva are elaborately described in the poem.

The epic poem Raghuvamsham, The Dynasty of Raghu, describes major events in the life of kings of Raghu dynasty, to which Maryada Purushotam Ram belongs.

Four generations before Ram described in detail include Dilip, Raghu, AJ and Dasarath. The story of Ram consistent with the text in the Valmiki Ramayan is also included.

After Ram, his son Kush returned to Ayodhya from Kushawati, a city allotted to him, and continued the tradition of Raghu dynasty by ruling the kingdom from Ayodhya. The poem also mentions over twenty subsequent kings after Kush. The last king in the epic died without a child and his pregnant queen was installed at the throne with an expectation that the newborn baby would continue the lineage.

The Poem Meghadutam, The Cloud Messenger, provides physical description of many regions of India and the emotions of an officer posted on duty to a distant land. A Yaksh, attendant of Kuber, the lord of wealth who lived in the city of Alaka on a mountain in the Himalaya, was posted to a mountainous region in Central India.

He remembered his wife and wished to send her a message. He noticed clouds in the sky, as the rainy season was to start, and requested it to convey his communication to his wife, on its northward course.

The Yaksh described many captivating sights that the cloud would see on its way to the city of Alaka, where his wife resided alone.

The poem Ritusamharanam, The Gathering of the Seasons, offers vigorous depictions of nature in all the six seasons encountered in India. The poem describes natural beauty in each season, and emotions arising in the hearts of women living away from their husbands during those periods.

Kalidas’ works are full of Shringar Ras that includes flirtation, playfulness, dalliance, adornment, artistry and other activities and feelings.

His plays, especially Abhigyan Shakuntalam, remain popular and are staged in theatres and during cultural functions throughout India and other countries. Kalidas’s books are translated in many languages, and are an inspiring account of the private lives and cultural traditions of ancient times.

Awadhesh Sharma.

Christian Leaders Fellowship (CLF) Online Conference The new history of Christianity has opened through CLF: The Unity of ministers beyond individual denomination.

The new insight of ‘2020 World Christian Leaders Fellowship conference’ has demonstrated its potential to unite different Christian denominations.

The conference was held with the theme of “Ready for your comeback?”, which united ministers to preach the gospel with one voice.

Christian Leaders Fellowship is a global faith leadership initiative that strives to unite Christian leaders through Bible-based theology, implement practical ministry solutions and encourage fellowship rooted in the gospel.The 4th annual World Conference was heldin June from the 25thto 27th and with featured lectures by executive pastors, Christian celebrities and CEOs. The programs are consisted of core lectures

by Rev. Ock Soo Park, with the topics of ‘healing’, ‘youth ministry’, ‘prison ministry’ and ‘how to live a life of faith’.

Additionally, various sessions including the lectures from different religious leaders, including Andrew Wommack, José Joaquín de Herrera, testimonies from the leaders and the group discussions, could engage the participants.

The ministers have expressed their will of returning to the Bible and to God, as they actively participated in each session of the conference.

The exclamation of joy after listening to the words of God and their testimonies were clear, providing a significant opportunity to return to the truth.

4Rev. Elder Suamalie Naisali TafakiIosefa NAISALI, from Tuvalu Inter-Faith Minister’s Forum-New Zealand, said “I've heard three things from Rev.Ock Soo Park today, theheart of God, the heart of Master and the heart of Farmer were explained in detail with background stories. I believe that the good news is conveying the Gospel as the story of Rev.Ock Soo Park of his own. As a result, the true heart of God is forgiving

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all of us. God sent Jesus, the only begotten Son. All of this is planned by the heart of God. We were all sinners and the people who fell short of the glory of God. But none of us can save ourselves by our own righteousness. Jesus has already sanctified and justified us by dying on the cross. I heard his sermon very well. All of us are already saved. Jesus has already died for us.”

4Rev. Manoa Rakoroi, the regional leader of Makoi Division,Methodist Wesleyan Church of Fiji, said, “One thing that greatly moved me was how Reverend Ock Soo Park used the words directly from the Bible and the Word of God. According to the Word of God, we are redeemed, we are saved, and we are righteous.

On the other hand, people call themselves sinners. But that’s not true! We were saved 2,000 years ago. I am so happy. Now I will go out and speak freely.

Look here! We are no longer sinners. Because there was a sacrifice for our sins. And it was his cross on which we were justified by the blood of Jesus. And now there is no more sacrifice for sinners. At once. And forever.”

4Reverend Edwin Shiva of INC Outreach Church in Vanuatu said, “This was a great blessing to me. I was baptized in 1989. Since then, it has been very difficult for me to live a Christian life following Jesus Christ. Being a Christian was a big burden for me, it was too difficult to stand as the right person before God, and it was difficult to believe that my sins were forgiven. I heard from several pastors preaching of the redemption of sin, and that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, but it was too difficult to accept it by faith. There has been a big change in my mind during these three days of CLF conference. There is peace in my heart, and the burden that has been in my heart for a long time is removed. It was difficult to believe in God, but the last three days made it easy. I believe I am righteous in my heart.”

The special lectures by Rev. Ock Soo Park were broadcasted twice a day (morning and evening),

Dear, Mr Chandra We would like to give our sincerest thanks to you and your team for your help with publishing the article for the Global Grand Bible Seminar. We are now currently spreading word about the news article and hope that we can get to become even more acquainted through this time!

Regarding the interview, we will be sending over for details and the required files to Dilraj Kaur soon and it will all be well underway.

Our most genuine gratitude once again for publishing the news article as well as giving us the opportunity for an interview as well.

Thank you.

Best Regards, Isaac Banseok Yang International Youth Fellowship Director in Brisbane The Manager of International Mind Education Institute in Brisbane six times in total. Rev. Ock Soo Park has emphasized the heart of God, which is portrayed in the bible, John 2 ‘the wedding feast in Cana’, Genesis 40 ‘the chief butler and the chief baker’, 2 Kings 7 ‘The city of Samaria in famine,’ and so forth.

This conference has been especially an unprecedented event that could unite the hearts of the churches to ‘return to the bible,’ despite the different denominations.

Furthermore, it was a great contribution of positive influence to societies that are currently in confusion and segmentation due to COVID-19, by uniting the ministers together online,

and could provide significant insight to the current situation, and its intervention in the times of crisis.

All positive comments were posted in various communities during the CLF conference. Many ministers praised God for accomplishing the eternal redemption, and expressed their gratefulness to the CLF, which has provided a significant opportunity to disclose the heart of God. 4Bishop Bernard Sala of 'Christian Action Face Mission' in Europe, said, “Thank you CLF for delivering the life of Reverend OkSoo Park and a privilege to socialize with pastors and a vision for Christian leaders

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through the conference. My life has changed through the conference. It was a special and beautiful time that we cannot take lightly. I want to be with CLF for preaching of the gospel all throughout Europe."

4Former President of Pentecostal Churches of Kenya BishopMorpatKilioba said, “For us, the meaning of'COMEBACK' is that 'the gospel is not complicated at all.' The gospel is simple.

ReverendOck Soo Park's words are not complicated.

May you all return to the pure gospel. It is necessary for this world today. We have a tendency to receive only philosophical doctrines into our preaching. However, if you interact with CLF, you can meet pure and authentic leaders. If you accept the gospel as it is, amazing work will take place. Now the pure gospel will be my preaching.”

4It is expected that pastors from all over the world who are united through CLF and have turned their hearts to God and the Bible will transcend their denominations and join the mission of preaching the gospel together.

4The Founder of Christian Leaders Fellowship, CLF Reverend Ok-Soo Park

remarked, “Jesus was delivered up for our offences, and he raised again because of our justification. God says we are righteous, and Jesus says we are righteous. God and Jesus do not lie. If God says we are righteous, then we are righteous. We just have to believe it."

4In addition, he added “I cannot say how thankful I am to be able to hear from pastors not only in Korea, but across the globe who joined the conference and changed.

God sent Jesus Christ, the Son, to forgive all our sins, but Satan deceived us and made us suffer from sins. I hope everyone will work together for the gospel until the day when everyone receives forgiveness of sin through the blood of Jesus.”

4CLF is a worldwide Christian organization where Christian leaders from all over the world are united and exchanged. Since its launch in 2017, it has been holding forums and symposiums in more than 100 countries, including New York CLF World Conference, Hong Kong CLF Asia Conference, and CLF Conference in Oceania.

Approximately 360,000 pastors are partaking in Christian Leaders Fellowship.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 17

Arya Samaj Queensland

ZOOM Havan and Satsangh Arya Samaj Queensland has continued with its regular Havan and Satsangh via Zoom.We are using new methods of keeping connected even in isolation, thanks to technology. Arya Samaj Queensland has beenperforming ZOOM Havan and Satsangh since April and also livestreaming it on Facebook. The support from members has been overwhelming and now each household is enjoying Havan at their homes rather than at once place. Vedas state that each household should perform Havan in homes for well-being and healthy lifestyle.

There are number of families who join through Zoom and perform or participate in the Satsangh.

The Zoom celebration has been so effective that people from overseas have become regular participants and they share their views and give speeches on Vedas.

Pundit Ji attends to one members place and then Havan is performed.The members who have joined via ZOOM are ready with Havan Kund and ingredients and perform Havan as per pundit ji’s instructions and Mantra. It is delightful to see dozens of Havan Kund lit and Ahuti’s been offered by members and wellwishers through ZOOM. The Havan Yaj is one of the best Karma(deed) one can do.

Once the Havan Yaj is completed then Satsangh includes discussion on various Vedic principles and

Vedas. The Bhajans form part of the Satsangh and one member also prepares a speech on chosen topic to articulate amongst members.

Arya Samaj Queensland Inc has a website and all the details of performing Havan is provided. The Havan mantra’s in Hindi and English , utensils and ingredients required has been uploaded on the Arya Samaj Queensland website www.aryasamajqueensland. org.

The files are downloadable and has full procedure for Dainik Yaj( Daily Havan Yaj).

Our Facebook page Arya Samaj Queensland has the video where the Havan is explained and performed to make it easier for people.

Please visit website and Facebook page for further details or you can contact me on 0411 798 012. We urge people to perform Yaj for their well-being.

We urge people to perform Havan if you can, do Yoga and meditation and look after yourselves.

You can visit www.yogguru. com.au for information of Yoga and meditation. Please contact President: Jitendra Deo via phone:0411 798 012 or email: asq.president@ gmail.comand if you wish to join ZOOM Havan and Satsangh the session is for 60 minutes. You can send email or PM in the messenger (Arya Samaj Queensland) or we have WhatsApp group as well and I will send you the link.

Yog and Meditation- Healing through knowledge Basis for Considering Soul as Different from and External to Mind Both Sankhya and Yoga offer observations and logic in support of the existence of the soul as distinct from the mind and body. One of these is the principle in Sankhya that any combination of elements exists for a purpose other than the combination itself. That is, the purpose of an object with multiple components must be other than the simple existence of that object. For example, a chair has multiple components — the seat, back support, legs, and perhaps other smaller

parts. A chair exists for someone to make use of it; a chair cannot sit on itself.

This is true for any object or instrument in the universe.

A thermometer does not measure the temperature for itself; it exists to indicate the temperature to someone other than itself.

The same principle applies to our sense organs — the sense organs cannot sense themselves. It is instead the soul that experiences things through the sense organs. Further extending the principle, our mind

— consisting of multiple impressions, thought processes, and emotions — cannot exist for its own sake.

The mind cannot sense or know itself; it is experienced by the soul and it exists for the purpose of the soul.

This is how Sankhya and Yoga differ from some of thephilosophies that do not accept the notion of a "Soul" as an entity distinct from the mind.

Residing Place of Soul in the Body Since the Soul

or

consciousness is different from the body and mind, one may ask where the Soul lives in the body.

Upanishads and Ayurveda use the word “Hirdhya” or heart and in Sanskrit it means both brain-region which is seat for thoughts and demotions and the cardiac region in the human body.

(Continued in next issue) Please contact Jitendra Deo on 3273 3029 or visit www.yogguru.com. au for more information and articles.

CONGRATULATIONS IN ORDER FOR DR TANYA UNNI

AIBC Congratulates and recognizes Dr. Tanya Unni on being presented the Indian Achievers Forum – Indian Achievers Award 2020 “Entrepreneur of the Year”. This is India’s Most Coveted Award Recognising Achievements since 1999.

Dr. Tanya Unni is AIBC’s Healthcare Industry Chapter Chair and Editor of the AIBC Newsletter, amongst her other outstanding roles in the community and workspace.

AIBC is proud to have Dr. Tanya Unni as part of their team.

2019Australian Young Entrepreneur of the year, GlobalEntrepreneur year 2019,Business excellence award Dr Tanya Unni is a Director at Amtan medical Ptd Ltd.

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

EXCESS WEALTH - TO BE REDISTRIBUTED?

Jitendra Deo President ASQ

Many people pour scorn on the idea of sharing between rich and poor. The first thing they claim is that redistribution works against the economic system of free capitalism, and that it takes away from a society's growth opportunities because it denies wealthy people the opportunity to start new businesses or hire new employees, and this ends up hurting the nation’s economy. The second, and very important, point is that redistribution of wealth encourages laziness. Those who are dependent upon the redistribution of wealth might become reluctant to do their fair share, as they no longer have to work in order to live. Also, redistribution is often considered bad because it is a form of forced charity.

The wealthy might not choose to donate the money of their own accord, and are, instead, forced to give up their money.

Those who argue against the redistribution debate believe that the poor should only receive help from private charitable groups that willingly help the poor.

WHEN WE ARE MOTIVATED TO SHARE Symbolically, when our palms are tightly closed, we grab on to our wealth and we hoard. On the other hand, when we perform a Vedic sacrifice, say Swaahaa and practice surrender, we are motivated to open our two tiny palms to share. These tiny palms are grabbed by God’s huge Hands, and we are escorted to the higher realm of bliss.

This Mantra emphasizes that when a person’s thinking is enhanced by a sense of surrender, no one can stand in his way to share, not even a thousand hurdles.

Devotion to higher ideals, especially to God, to knowledge and to selflessness, is always in perfect harmony with Truth.

Truth, by definition, is the very opposite to falsehood.

These two – Devotion and Truth – can never be averse to, or incompatible with, each other. When

devotion in the form of earnest attachment is born, it immediately blends with waves in the stream of Truth. Such devotion lends us psychological resources like fortitude, patience, justice, humility, honour and honesty.

These resources help us to embrace Truth.

Not Even A Hundred Hurdles Can Impede The Donor!

THE MANTRA FROM RIG VEDA Na twaa shatam chana hruto Raadho dit-san-tam aaminan Yat punaano makhasyase – Rig Veda 9:61:27 O individual Soul! Not even a hundred hurdles can harm you when you, in purifying yourself, perform noble sacrifices with the intention of sharing your wealth.

Nectar-Like Devotion Destroys Base Desires – RIG VEDA MANTRA Ete asrigram aashawo Ati hwaraan-si ba-bhrawah Somaa ritasya dhaarayaa – Rig Veda 9:63:4 These drops of nectarlike devotion blend with the stream of Truth. They flow rapidly through our crooked thinking and finally overcome them.

They lend strength to, and sustain, my inner self.

There is tremendous value attached to sharing.

When we distribute a portion of our wealth, we feel that we are practicing a sense of fairness with others, especially those who are marginalized and so, feel denied. And, in addition to conducing to fairness, wealth distribution influences peace and stability in a nation. As demonstrated with protests organized by people who feel themselves deprived, when the disparity between the rich and poor is too wide, society falls out of balance. This leads to social unrest and eventually to civil disturbances, looting and even revolutions.

If wealth distribution is constantly pursued, it can work wonders for society. As long as money is carefully spent and accounted for, charity and sharing can go a far way in eliminating poverty and starvation for a great deal of the population.

(Adapted from Dr Satish Prakash Publications) Please contact President: Jitendra Deo 3273 3029 or Secretary: Sunil Dutt 5613 3410 for information on activities of Arya Samaj Queensland or log on: www. aryasamajqueensland.org/ Facebook Arya Samaj Qld

Meditation: An Elixir of Mental Health Coronavirus pandemic has partially locked the majority of the world’s population to their own homes. These restrictions have been put in place by the governments around the world to save people from getting infected but it has put an important aspect of overall well-being of human life i.e. mental health, in grave danger, and that is mental health. This is because we are not used to sitting in our homes and having to do nothing. Even before Covid-19, WHO had identified depression to be one of the major factors for suicide, which is world’s second leading cause of deaths.

To counter this, people are turning to Yoga and Meditation.

Meditation has, for a long time, been promoted as an effective way to handle stress and anxiety. According to Dr. John W. Denninger, director of research at the BensonHenry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Harvardaffiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, Meditation trains the brain to achieve sustained focus, and to return to that focus when negative thinking, emotions, and physical sensations intrude — which happens a lot when you feel stressed and anxious.

Furthermore, Meditation has been found to change certain brain regions that are specifically linked with depression. For instance, scientists have shown that the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) becomes hyperactive in depressed people. The mPFC is often called the "me center" because this is where you process information about yourself, such as worrying about the future and ruminating about the past. Another brain region associated with depression is the amygdala, or "fear center." This is the part of the brain responsible for the fight-or-flight response.

These two brain regions work off each other to cause depression. The me center gets worked up reacting to stress and anxiety, and the fear center response leads to a spike in cortisol levels to fight a danger that's only in your mind.

Research has found that meditation helps break the connection between these two brain regions. To quote Dr. Denninger, "When you meditate, you are better able to ignore the negative sensations of stress and anxiety, which explains, in part, why stress levels fall Call: 07 38656533

when you meditate".

Another way meditation helps the brain is by protecting the hippocampus (a brain area involved in memory). One study discovered that people who meditated for 30 minutes a day for eight weeks increased the volume of gray matter in their hippocampus, and other research has shown that people who suffer from recurrent depression tend to have a smaller hippocampus.

Now that we know that meditation is important and helps strengthen our mental health, I am going to introduce a simple way of meditation which is called Samarpan Meditation. The Master who introduced this meditation, Shree ShivKrupanand Swami (Swamiji), defines meditation as ‘becoming one with nature’. Swamiji believes that meditation is the knowledge that Mother Nature gave us and is the birth right of every human being. Swamiji’s mission is to teach meditation to everyone for free and it is open for everyone irrespective of their religion, race, colour and country.

To achieve this, an organisation called Samarpan Meditation was founded by Swamiji in 1999 in India and in the past two decades this mission has spread to over 30 countries. Scores of people have learnt this simple way of meditation and gained the same positive experiences. Swamiji has encouraged practitioners of this method to open meditation centres around the world where people can come and meditate and also learn about meditation, free of cost. To make best possible use of technology and under the guidance of Swamiji, an initiative called Join Collectivity Online (JCO) has been launched. As part of this initiative, volunteers have organised online meetings via Zoom where people can join in and meditate online together as if they were in the same room.

For more information, please visit https:// joincollectivityonline.com/.

Swamiji has placed great importance in meditating with a group of people because meditating for 1000 days by yourself is equal to meditating with 1000 people for one day.

Followers of Samarpan Meditation consider Swamiji as the Living Saint of the 21st Century. To

show Him the gratitude for His teachings and selfless devotion to His students, celebrate a festival called Gurupurnima (full moon day). It is believed that Guru energies are thousand times more active on this day than any other day of the year.

This year’s event was celebrated on 3 - 5 July.

Due to Covid-19 restriction, this event was celebrated virtually, with more than 55,000 people from 61 different countries logging in to watch online discourses by Swamiji and his wife, Guruma, cultural performances from members around the world and other spiritual activities. The entire 3-day event was broadcasted live on YouTube.

During the event, Swamiji personally conducted meditation sessions, gave discourses and answered questions asked by practitioners.

Most people who connected experienced a lot of positive energies around them. They found that their attention went within themselves and felt a sense of calmness and peace. The key message given by Swamiji was that it is very important for every individual to obtain SelfRealization and to always remember the moment one gets Self-Realisation as it is the bridge between one’s soul and the universal consciousness.

To know more about Samarpan Meditation, visit www.samarpanmeditation. org or contact 0406 311 992 and 0469 816 569, email samarpanaus@gmail.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook by searching @ samarpanaus or by visiting https://www.facebook.com/ samarpanaus/.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 19

Council pipeline of

projects to

support of

thousands

Local jobs

Brisbane City Council is gearing up to start delivering an extensive suite of infrastructure projects in the new financial year, which will create well over 4000 jobs in Brisbane.

The infrastructure boom includes everything from suburban roads and footpaths, park, reserve and stormwater upgrades to building riverwalks and double-decker CityCats.

Investment in road projects, intersection upgrades and improvements to other city assets, including bridges, culverts, boardwalks, safety fences and kerb and channel will support 1300 jobs this financial year alone.

Lord Mayor Adrian

Schrinner said Council’s investment in infrastructure would create jobs and drive Brisbane’s economic revival following the global coronavirus pandemic.

“Coronavirus has ripped a $140 million hole the 202021 Budget, and the way out of the economic turbulence, is investment in projects big and small that will support jobs, create local supplier opportunities and futureproof our city for generations to come,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Every single job created and every dollar spent at a local supplier is helping Brisbane to rebuild; whether it’s 60 jobs created by building cycling infrastructure like Indooroopilly Riverwalk, or

70 local workers employed to on the design and build the new double-decker CityCats at Murarrie.

“If you support a local product or service, your money stays in the Brisbane economy and this cycle of economic recovery and evolves into buoyancy.”

Cr Schrinner said these shovel-ready projects come on top of major job drivers including the Brisbane Metro, fast-tracked green bridges at Kangaroo Point and Breakfast Creek, the Kingsford Smith Drive upgrade and the Wynnum Rd Stage 1b upgrade.

“Get ready for a pipeline of job-creating infrastructure projects to ramp up this

financial year,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Work is gearing up on the turn-up-and-go Brisbane Metro where more than 2600 jobs will be created throughout the planning, design and construction of the project with the Brisbane Move consortium and the fast-track of delivery of green bridges will create a further 500 jobs, with works on the Kangaroo Point and Breakfast Creek Bridges to start next year.’’

Cr Schrinner said the 2020-21 Budget was crafted to help Brisbane businesses, residents and community groups thrive once again as the world moved into the recovery phase of the coronavirus pandemic.

“This is a Budget that rebuilds Brisbane. It is jobgenerating, forward thinking and a Budget that will lay the foundations for our economic recovery,” he said.

“All these projects will bring certainty to small, local businesses and contractors while also delivering critical projects that will bust congestion, improve liveability and accessibility for Brisbane residents.”

The significant investment in jobs includes active transport infrastructure initiatives, major road projects, vital upgrades to footpaths and ferry terminals as well as park and community services upgrades, library and animal shelter refurbishments, and improvements to sports fields, golf courses and pools.

MAJOR INFRASTRUCUTE PROJECTS FUNDED IN 2020-21: 4Bikeways, footpaths, green bridges and Brisbane Metro - $258.6m 4Suburban roads $319.9m 4Parks, bushland, reserves, stormwater $144.7m 4Village Precinct projects - $8m 4Library refurbishment, community facilities improvement, sports fields, golf courses, pools - $37.4m 4Animal shelters - $1.1m Ongoing construction: 4Brisbane Metro 4Kingsford Smith Drive Upgrade 4Wynnum Road Upgrade Stage 1b

Hundreds of local jobs secured as SeaLink steps up to the helm Brisbane’s CityCats and CityFerries will soon be operated by local company SeaLink as part of Council’s ‘buy local’ push.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the current contract to operate the fleet of 22 CityCats and nine monohull ferries across the 25 terminals would expire in November 2020 and following a rigorous tender process SeaLink, would take over the helm on 4 November 2020.

“This new contract is all about backing Brisbane, with SeaLink already operating in Queensland this new contract provides them with an opportunity to expand and provide up to 250 localjobs, with employment opportunities crewing and maintenance, customer service and safety management,” he said.

“A key focus of this tender process was the assessment of the provider’s ability to deliver jobs for Brisbane through targeted employment initiatives and engagement with local businesses.

“SeaLink is Australian founded and owned and has been operating in Queensland since 1997.

They currently operate the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Ferry, the North Stradbroke Island ferry and have an office at Russell Island.

“I want to see as many contracts as possible going to local businesses and our Local Buy policy seeks to invest 80 per cent of Council’s procurement spend in local businesses.

“This policy has led to more than $920 million worth of contracts being awarded locally this financial year.”

Cr Schrinner said Council had been involved in ferry services for 95 years with services operated by Council since 1967.

Under Council’s operating model, there have been different service providers who have helped this popular transport option grow from the very first ferries, to CityCats in 1996 and now to our double-decker Next Generation CityCats.

“Under Council’s operating model, there have been different service providers who have helped this popular transport option grow from the very first ferries, to CityCats in 1996 and now to our double-decker Next Generation CityCats,” he said.

“Brisbane residents love our river and I have great confidence SeaLink will continue to deliver continuous improvements in the operation of our ferry services for the millions of residents and visitors who jump on board each year.”

Public and Active Transport Chair Ryan Murphy said Brisbane’s investment in water transport continued to be a key focus with new vessels and terminals to hit the water soon.

“Over the next term Council will invest more than $48.6 million in new and upgraded ferry terminals and more than $37.1 million to deliver seven new double-decker CityCats which are built by local supplier Aus Ships at Murarrie,” Cr Murphy said.

“Investing in our river transport is securing hundreds of jobs when Brisbane needs them most.

Our city is working to rebuild after the economic hit of coronavirus and giving long term security for hundreds of local jobs will help build a better Brisbane.

Good Neighbour Clean-up scheme lends hand to most vulnerable Brisbane residents Brisbane City Council will help Brisbane’s most vulnerable residents clear up unwanted goods from their homes by connecting them with free large item waste transport.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said getting rid of bulky items was difficult for vulnerable or elderly residents and the Good Neighbour Clean-up scheme will lend a much-needed hand during the coronavirus crisis by linking them up with a free contractor.

“The current economic

crisis meant we had to make some tough decisions including postponing kerbside collection for two years. While we need to be financially responsible, it’s also important that our most vulnerable residents, who live alone or are elderly or frail also have the opportunity to get rid of bulky unwanted goods at no cost,” Cr Schrinner said.

“As part of the Good Neighbour Clean-up scheme, residents will be able to ring the Council call centre and book our contractors to pick

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

up their unwanted items. It will be available to residents in the Council area, who are over 60, be frail or have a disability, and have no family or friend network who can help them in the home.

“Similar to our AtHome Library Service that delivers books to our most vulnerable and elderly residents, this new scheme is about making sure that we look after and give back to our elderly and most vulnerable residents.”

Cr Schrinner said there

are plenty of ways all residents can get rid of bulky waste by connecting with and supporting local services.

“Renters will receive tip vouchers for free in the mail from this Wednesday, and there are Brisbane charities, including Lifeline, that offer a free pick-up service for pre-loved furniture,” he said.

“There are also many local organisations that we can support, such as Connected Inc, which offer removal of furniture, white goods, appliances, mattresses and

domestic rubbish for free or a small fee.”

Cr Schrinner said kerbside collection was paused in March in response to the coronavirus pandemic and is set to restart in 2022.

“Every single Budget decision is carefully considered, and kerbside collection is not a day-today essential service. By postponing this service, we have been able to put $13 million into Economic Recovery Initiatives for Brisbane residents,” he said.

“We are working to be

able to reinstate this service as soon as possible, but right now our priority is getting funding relief to the residents, businesses and community groups who are hurting and struggling in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.”

This financial year for the first time Brisbane renters will also receive 10 free waste vouchers, meaning all households will be able to get rid of their household or green waste for free regardless if they own or rent.

Brisbane’s Iconic Landmark, Story Bridge turns eighty CONTD. FROM PG 1 The Most Important Details…

4The consulting engineer chosen for the project was Queenslander Dr. John Bradfield. Dr. Bradfield had been Chief Engineer on the Sydney Harbour Bridge which was completed in 1932.

4The bridge commenced construction on 24 May, 1935.

4Construction took five years, one year longer than planned due to a steel shortage.

4During construction, the Bridge was referred to as the Central Bridge; the Brisbane River Bridge; the King George the Fifth Memorial Bridge; the Jubilee Bridge of Story Place; later, in 1937, the Government chose the Story Bridge, after JD Storey.

4The Story Bridge opened for operation on 6 July, 1940.

4At the time of opening in 1940, the Story Bridge was Australia’s second largest bridge (exceeded by the Sydney Harbour Bridge).

It was the seventh largest bridge of it’s kind in the world.

4The Story Bridge project cost £1,492,000 ($3,227,416) (under budget).

4Seven years later, the State Government sold the Story Bridge to the Brisbane City Council for £750,000.

4During construction, one hundred and ninetyeight (198) men were employed at the metal works, one hundred and seventy-six (176) at the construction site as well as sixty (60) designers, engineers, and surveyors.

Tragically, four men lost their lives during construction.

Governor Wilson (left), and Dr Bradfield (right), the Consulting Engineer on the Story Bridge project

Sir Leslie Wilson officially opens the Story Bridge on 6 July 1940.

Workers pose for a photo During construction

The Iconic Brisbane landmark completed

About the Bridge Itself…

4The Bridge is 1,072 metres long from the southern to northern anchor piers.

4The river span is 282 metres long.

4The Bridge’s summit is 74 metres to ground, similar in height to a 22-story building.

4The width of the Bridge is 24 metres, including footpaths.

4The river clearance at low tide is 35 metres, or 10-stories.

4The four main steel bearings each weight 36 tonnes.

A Little Bit about Construction…

4In 1935 a contract was signed for Evans DeakinHornibrook Constructions Pty Ltd for the construction of the Bridge.

4The bridge was Call: 07 38656533

constructed in five stages.

439,100 cubic metres were excavated for foundations (a hole as large as 23 Olympic swimming pools).

441,250 cubic metres of concrete used (approximately

8,200 truck loads).

412,000 tonnes of structural steel used.

41,650 tonnes of reinforcing steel used.

41,500,000 rivets were used to construct the bridge.

4The Story Bridge is the

largest steel bridge designed, fabricated and constructed in Australia by Australians.

Brisbane’s Story Bridge opened for operation on July 6, 1940. This day came five years after construction commenced and fourteen

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years after initial recommendations for a river crossing in the Kangaroo Point vicinity.

Essentially, the Story Bridge was one of the then governments’ three major public works

projects, creating years of employment for many men during the Great Depression. Today, the Story Bridge lends itself to be one of the best places to visit in Brisbane.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 21

Which path leads to Perfection – Karma-Kanda, Yoga or the Knowledge?

The material in this article has been translated from the satsang of H.H Sant Shri Asaram Bapu Ji. Pujya Bapu Ji had addressed the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1993, which was 100 years after Swami Vivekananda addressed the same parliament in 1883. To awaken the cultural pride of India and to save the youth being ruined due to the lustful festivals like valentine’s day, in 2007 Pujya Bapu Ji initiated celebrations of Matri-Pitri Pujan Diwas (Parents worship day) on 14th February.Through his religious discourse, Pujya Bapu Ji always explained the importance of Tulsi plant.

To save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2013 Pujya Bapu Ji initiated celebration of Tulsi Poojan on 25th December. The whole world has now started understanding the qualities and importance of tulsi plant in the present Covid-19 pandemic period.

Pujya Bapu Ji has always emphasized the necessity to follow rich Indian culture and always said that it is only the Indian culture and Sanatana dharmawhich can give the world happiness & peace.

Jaimini was a disciple of Bhagavan Veda Vyasaji.

Jaimini taught KarmaKanda (the ritual section of the Vedas), and Yajnayaga (sacrificial rites) to his disciple, and said: “O disciple! Now you are eligible for heaven.” Yajna, Japa-Tapa are purifiers of intellect. यज्ञोदानंतपश्चैवपावनानिमनीषि णाम ्।। “Sacrifice, charity and austerity are verily the purifiers of the wise.” (Gita: 18.5) The disciple said: “Guruji,

I am eligible for heaven, but when I enjoy heavenly pleasures, just the same as whilst ever I have money, I will be allowed to stay in a comfortable and luxurious dwelling (like a five star hotel), but when the money is finished I will be asked to leave, similarly until I have religious merits I shall stay in heaven but when the merits are finished I will be thrown out and there will be sorrow again. As a result, I will go into someone’s womb and if conception does not take place, then I will be compelled to flow into the drain. Therefore Guruvar!

Kindly bestow upon me such knowledge, such a path, following which I will be saved from this cycle of misery.”

Gurudev said: “Yes, my child! You are absolutely right. You have understood the fault of what we obtain as a result of our actions, hence you have developed dispassion.

Now this practice of karma (rituals) is not for you. Go to revered Patanjali and perform Samadhi there.”

Patanjali taught Pranayama, Meditation, Dharana (Concentration) and Yogic techniques up to Samadhi.

Savikalpa Samadhi (a state of Samadhi in which the distinction between the knower, knowledge, and known is not yet lost).

Great bliss and peace… he conquered hunger and thirst and attained a healthy body… after having all this, when he reached the state of Nirvikalpa Samadhi (the highest state of concentration in which the soul loses all sense of being different from the universal Self, but a temporary state from which there is a return to ego-consciousness), he remained in Nirvikalpa bliss

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for quite a long time. When samadhi broke, illumination dawned: “Patanjali Maharaj!

With your grace I reached the state of samadhi and reached Ashta siddhis (eight supernatural powers) and Navanidhi (nine varieties of extraordinary exaltation that come to a Yogi as he advances and progresses in Yoga). However, the Ashtasiddhi and Navanidhi were also possessed by Hanumanji, yet to achieve the thing for which he went to the holy feet of Ramaji, such a thing which is never lost. Lord Patanjali! I want to attain that thing. That which is obtained from the external world will get lost.

One, who existed in the past, exists now and will exist in the future forever. I want that knowledge and would like to establish myself in that.”

Patanjali Maharaj was very pleased, and said: “O son! Now I will not be able to help you. You need to approach Veda Vyasaji.”

Veda Vyasaji was a highly exalted saint. By imparting

Patanjali taught Pranayama, Meditation, Dharana (Concentration) and Yogic techniques up to Samadhi. Savikalpa Samadhi (a state of Samadhi in which the distinction between the knower, knowledge, and known is not yet lost).

Tattva jnana to the disciple of Jaimini he removed the veil of ignorance, due to which the one which exists (eternal) is not seen and the one which is non-existent is seen.

Demigods and Rishis prayed to Veda Vyasaji: “God sends the jiva into the world due to the bondage of action, but on the contrary Gurudev cuts off this bondage and establishes one in the real Self, hence there should be

something called ‘Guru Day’, ‘Guru-worship Day’ as well.

Then Ashadhi Poornima (the full moon day in the ’ ’ month of Ashadh) was fixed as Guru Day or Guruworship Day. But then they asked: “Where should we come to worship you?” The Big hearted Vyasaji said: “Wherever there is a great man, distributing the divine gift of the knowledge of the Vedas and Brahma Vidya (knowledge about Absolute Reality), I consider His worship as my own worship, regard to Him as regard for me and disregard to Him as disregard for me.

To listen Vedic/knowldge stories or to listen 24X7 live divine Satsang, please search “Mangalmay live” on google, visit http://www. ashram.org/live or search “THE SBM STUDIO” on you tube. By the Divine Inspiration of Bapu Ji, the weekly sessions of Bal Sanskar and yoga are held in Brisbane. These sessions are aimed for the character, mental, intellectual and spiritual development of the

kids. The kids are trained to learn yogic mudras, techniques, yogasnas and pranayamas. These yogic techniques along with jap and meditation help kids in attaining virtues like righteousness and selfrestraint. The kids learn precious keys to develop intelligence and take advantage of chanting and meditation while playing and laughing. Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of “The Brisbane Indian Times.”

To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu Ji, please watch this video. https://bit.ly/2uZvJuN For more info about Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions, to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine RishiPrasad in your mail box in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail. com or by WhatsApp/phone to Ashok Attri and Anu Attri at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802

Call: 07 38656533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 23

Amongst other OAM recipients

PROFESSOR SARVA-DAMAN SINGH

MR IAN DUNCAN STEWART APM

MR MICHAEL WAI-MAN CHOI

MR CAMPBELL KEVIN NEWMAN

For service to tertiary education, and to the community, as a senior academic in institutions and universities in Queensland and India, as author of multiple publications on Indian history and culture, and through senior roles in organisations promoting Indian culture and supporting the Indian community in Australia.

For distinguished service to law enforcement, as Commissioner of Police in Queensland and as Chair and Board Member of the Australian Crime Intelligence Commission and its predecessor, and to the community, as inaugural State Disaster Coordinator and through research and fellowships with organisations advancing public administration.

For service to the people of Queensland, through advisory and ambassadorial roles with Brisbane City, Redland City and Toowoomba Regional Councils, and through organisations associated with the Chinese community, and for service to the Parliament of Queensland, as Member for Capalaba and Parliamentary Secretary in a range of portfolios.

For distinguished service to the people and Parliament of Queensland, particularly as 38th Premier of Queensland, Member for Ashgrove and Leader of the Liberal National Party of Queensland, and to local government as 15th Lord Mayor of Brisbane.

Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division

DR ASHOK GANGASANDRA BASAVARAJ Group Bravery Citation

In the early evening of 29 May 2016, Dr Ashok Gangasandra Basavaraj, Mr VishaakGangasandra and other members of the public were involved in the rescue of a woman from a burning vehicle at Palm Beach in Queensland. Just after 6pm, a car travelling at high speed left the road near an intersection, leaving the road and crashing into a power pole. Debris was strewn over a large area as the vehicle was split in two and then caught alight. A passer-by stopped her vehicle and ran to the wrecked car. Other drivers then stopped to assist and they managed to pull the deployed airbags off the injured female driver.

Officer of the Order of Australia in the General Division

MR DAVID PHILIP PARATZ

Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division

MR FRED CONWAY

Officer of the Order of Australia in the General Division

MR UMESH CHANDRA

Member of the Order of Australia in the General Division

Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division

Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division

For significant service to the Jewish community of Queensland, through roles with the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, the Brisbane Hebrew Congregation, and other Jewish and interfaith organisations, and to the law through, contributions as a barrister, mediator, manager and author of professional publications.

For service to conservation and the environment, as a ranger in the Carnarvon National Park, and through assisting with the foundation of the Aboriginal Seasonal Ranger Program, utilising his knowledge and expertise as an Elder and custodian of the Bidgera People.

For service to the multicultural community of Queensland, as President and Founding Member of the Queensland Multicultural Council, Vice-President of Radio 4EB, and as a senior office-holder in other State and international organisations and advisory groups supporting multiculturalism and the Indian-Australian community across sectors including business, the media and sport.

KhaataMeetha – a new 100% Veg Indian Sweets and Restaurant has been launched in Calamvale shopping centre at shop34,662 Compton Road , Calamvale , they will be providing a variety of Indian authentic sweets and flavourful food.

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

Australian IndiaN Radio Interviews

Older Australians concerned about their financial security amid COVID-19 CONSIDERING the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, over a quarter (27%) of retirees are cutting back on their food shopping costs and more than a third (37%) are spending less on clothes and accessories due to concerns about what COVID-19 may mean for their future finances.

New research conducted by investment managementfirm, Challenger examined the financial wellbeing of older Australians. The research revealed one in five (20%) retirees are looking to increase their savings and one in twenty (6%) retirees plan on cutting out travel and holidays. Worryingly, almost half (49%) of retirees don’t feel confident about their financial security over the next five years.

Almost all (97%) adults questioned are concerned about the Australian economy, more so than their own health and wellbeing (81%). Four in five respondents (80%) are concerned about their personal financial security in the future.

Despite overall concern

around the economy, only half of respondents (retirees and non-retirees) have taken, or are planning to take, action to address their current financial concerns (54%).

In fact, of those who expressed serious worries for their financial wellbeing, nearly a third of respondents indicated they haven’t done anything to alleviate their concern about their financial security (29%).

To support retirees in their retirement income options, Challenger has launched Retire with Confidence, a new tool for Australian retirees and pre-retirees to challenge

perceptions about retirement income.

Angela Murphy, (Chief Executive, Distribution, Product and Marketing), in an exclusive interview with Australian Indian Radio said, “New research reveals half of retirees don’t feel confident about their financial security and over a quarter of Australian retirees are cutting back on their food shopping costs due to financial concerns following COVID-19. She said the new tool that challenger has launched (Retire with Confidence)will support retirees with their retirement income options.

articles by staff reporter

Kids Alive water safety message goes virtual amidst COVID-19 restrictions THE ‘Kids Alive – Do the Five’ community service program have launched a series of virtual events in an innovative rollout designed to deliver water safety messages to a broader audience.

With Kids Alive unable to deliver their water safety programs in swim schools and childcare centers nationally, kids and parents could be missing out on important water safety messages. The new ‘Couch Concerts’ have been developed in direct response to the travel restrictions that have occurred due to COVID-19.

While restrictions are now starting to ease, families and young children still need entertainment and education opportunities in the comfort of their own home. These online events also mean that water safety programs can reach a larger audience and keep water safety front of mind during winter.

Drowning remains the leading cause of accidental death in Australian children under the age of

five and while the majority of these deaths occur in swimming pools, infants and young children also die in waterways, bathtubs and spa baths.

Kids Alive hosted over 18 virtual events through their Facebook page and website. The events were designed to deliver water safety messages in a fun and innovative way and included kids dance concerts, puppet shows, craft videos and book readings.

In an exclusive interview withAustralian Indian Radio, Laurie Lawrence, (Swim Safety Ambassador, Kids Alive

Founder) said “Kids Alive have launched a series of virtual events to deliver water safety programs to kids and parents across Australia and he said that The Couch Concerts had been developed in direct response to the travel restrictions that have occurred due to COVID-19.

And he explained the aim behind this programme by explaining that drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death in Australian children under the age of five so his service programmes are designed to deliver water safety message in fun and innovative way.

Clinical trials give blood Testing essential when planning a family to protect cancer patients hope the next Generation In an exclusive interview with Australian Indian Radio, Agnes Nsofwa (Cofounder of Australian Sickle Cell Advocacy) said that Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is the most common inherited blood disorder in the world. Ms Agnes Nsofwa also said that over 250 million people worldwide have the sickle cell trait with the majority unaware.

As children have a one in four chance of developing sickle cell disease if both parents have the trait, it is essential that couples planning a family get tested for the sickle cell trait. Globally, 300,000 babies are born with severe forms of sickle cell disease annually and experts estimate that over 14 million newborns will be born with sickle cell disease between 2010 and 2050.

Sickle cell disease results in red blood cells dying early, leaving a shortage of healthy red blood cells causing sickle cell anaemia which can block blood flow and cause pain, fatigue and infections.

The health burden of sickle cell disease can be effectively reduced

Call: 07 38656533

through management and prevention programs.

Blood tests to detect sickle cell trait are covered

by Medicare. For those of childbearing age, genetics testing is covered by Medicare and can identify couples at risk of having affected children. This screening is especially appropriate before marriage or pregnancy, allowing couples to discuss the health of their family.

Ahead of World Sickle Cell Day (June 19), Australian Sickle Cell Advocacy raised awareness of SCD and encouraged people who are at risk of having the Sickle Cell Trait to get

Globally, 300,000 babies are born with severe forms of sickle cell disease annually and experts estimate that over 14 million newborns will be born with sickle cell disease between 2010 and 2050 tested. This is especially important when planning for a family, to make informed decisions and pass on that information to the next generation.

BLOOD cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australia and the third leading cause of cancer death. Making this even harder to comprehend, is the fact that blood cancers cannot be prevented or detected through routine screenings. This makes finding effective treatments through blood cancer research more important.

Blood donations are critical for blood cancer patients, with one third of donated red cells in Australia being used to help treat people with cancer and other blood diseases.

However, research into blood cancer will provide patients with the best opportunity to cure their blood cancer through clinical trials, genomic testing and cutting-edge treatments.

In Australia, less than a third (30%) of blood cancer patients have access to testing that provides crucial insights for treatments. Genomic testing and tracking of markers not only changes and better informs treatment plans for 60% of blood cancer patients, in some cases it helps them avoid unnecessary chemotherapy.

Research shows that

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patients have better outcomes when they are part of a clinical trial. For blood cancer patient’s access to a trial is often a second chance at life as it provides access to new treatments before they are available in Australia.

Clinical trials buy blood cancer patient’s time, time with loved ones, and time for more treatments to be developed.

Blood cancer does not discriminate, young or old, male or female, 41 Australians are diagnosed with blood cancer every day. So, this World Blood Donor Day, the Snowdome Foundation thanked those who give blood and encouraging those who say ‘nope!’ to needles to show their support and make a

donation to the Snowdome Foundation to buy more time for blood cancer patients.

Geoff Nyssen(blood cancer patient and father) in an exclusive interview withAustralian Indian Radio, said that the “Current situation in Australia saying blood cancers (myeloma, leukaemia and lymphoma) are the third leading cause of cancer death in Australia with 41 Australians diagnosed every day. He further stated that less than a third of blood cancer patients have access to genomic testing that provides crucial insights into treatments. He urged Aussies to donate to blood cancer research to buy more time for blood cancer patients.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 25

THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME……AT A GLANCE.

By Ml. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi

Unity is vividly observed in the great pillar of Hajj, which is repeated every year and for which millions of Muslims gather from all over the world. They represent the Muslim ummah with all its different races, countries, colors, and languages. They gather in one place, at the same time, wearing the same garment and performing the same rites. They make one stand in the same monument. They proclaim the oneness of the Lord of the worlds, submit themselves to His law, and show their unity under His banner.

They announce to the whole world that they are one nation although they come from different countries and homes. They perform the rites and stand in the open areas of Makkah, where bodies become close to each other, faces meet, hands shake, greetings exchange, tongues communicate, and hearts reconcile. They meet for the same purpose and intention.

What unity is deeper than that one of the pilgrims when they stand at the mountain of 'Arafat with bare heads and simple white clothes? There is no difference between the rich and the poor, the ruler and the subject, men and women, Arabs and non-Arabs. All of them are the same, like the teeth of the hair comb. They direct themselves towards Allah, humble and submissive.

"They hope for His Mercy and fear His Wrath" [Al-Isra', 17:57] This is their description when they make tawaf (circumambulation around the Ka'bah) and sa'y (going between the mountains of As-Safa and Al-Marwah), stay overnight at Muzdalifah and Mina, sacrifice animals, and throw stones. Similarly, this is their description when they perform the congregational prayer at the open areas or at the Holy Mosque. They pray behind one man (i.e. the imam) and supplicate to one God (i.e. Allah). They read one Book, the Qur'an, and direct themselves to one Qiblah, the Ka'bah, at the Holy Mosque.

They perform the same rites of standing, sitting, bowing down, and prostration.

It is a kind of unity that penetrates the hearts, and not only external appearances. This is unity in aim and direction, in sayings

and deeds, an internal and external unity, through which they could feel the essence of the verse: "The believers are but a single brotherhood." [AlHujurat, 49:10].

Differences in social class, wealth, race, and color vanish within these feelings and rites. A pure and solemn atmosphere of brotherhood, serenity, affection, and love prevails. In a world engulfed in dispute and division, it is a great blessing for a person to have the ability to enjoy this atmosphere of complete peace. In a world where discrepancy is the prevailing system, they (pilgrims) enjoy an atmosphere of equality. In the face of the world's grudges, hatred, and disputation-feelings all too characteristics of the modern life-pilgrims experience a feeling of love and harmony.

Allah has imposed pilgrimage upon Muslims in a specific time each year, in one place, and in the same manner. Thus, they perform it in gatherings and not in scattered groups.

They feel and see unity and brotherhood before their very eyes. Allah made their Hajj in the purest point, in the most sacred place, and in the best days, namely, the first ten days of the month of DhulHijjah.

Accordingly, they experience the sacredness of the place, time, and situation. Hence, they know their position among other nations and feel Allah's blessing, as He granted them this straight and sound religion. He favored Muslims by bringing familiarity among their hearts and making them loving brothers and sisters.

Hajj is a valuable opportunity for the public to meet the righteous scholars, so that they would benefit from their knowledge and be guided by their juristic opinions. It is also an occasion for Muslim scholars to meet with each other, so that they would know each other, discuss issues of theology, acquire jurisprudence in religion, and study the affairs of Muslims and provide solutions to their problems.

It is a great chance for Muslim leaders, thinkers, and politicians to meet, to consult and to co-operate for the welfare of Islam and Muslims.

Hajj is, indeed, the symbol

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

of unity and monotheism!

Praise be to Allah who has guided us to this. Never could we have found guidance, had it not been for the guidance of Allah.

HAJJ, one of the five pillars of Islam, is obligatory on every adult Muslim once in his lifetime if he is financially and physically capable to undertake the journey.

Allah (God in Arabic language) said in the Qur’an (God’s final revelation to mankind through Prophet Muhammad ‫)ﷺ‬: And pilgrimage to the house is duty upon mankind owed to Allah for whoever can find a way there (Qur’an 3:97) Hajj rituals commemorate the events that took place during the time of Ibrahim (Abraham), one of the prophets of Allah. Ibrahim perfected his faith in Allah and showed complete reliance on God during the many trials and tribulations in his life.

His life is worth reading about before going for Hajj or if you simply want to understand Hajj better.

When Muslims perform Hajj, they are reminded of his powerful legacy which recharges their commitment to the religion and thus helps them attain pure faith in God. The fact that Hajj has been going on every year for thousands of years of human history shows that it has to be divinely legislated.

Human beings are incapable of starting such a movement.

Many of us who go for Hajj focus a lot in learning the rituals, and of course we must. However, preparing the heart for the pilgrimage should not be any less important. We must prepare our heart to attain the purpose of Hajj. Therefore, let’s look at the inner dimensions of Hajj, spiritual aspects that the pilgrimage reminds us of: Faith in God and that He is Only One This is called tawheed in Arabic. This is the heart of our belief. The moment pilgrims enter ihraam (ritual state to perform hajj), they start proclaiming the Talbiyah.

Repeating the Talbiyah makes the heart firm on the fact that Allah is one and that there is no partner

besides Him. He, our Creator, is sufficient for us and He alone is in control of everything.

While repeating it, let’s remember what the proclamation indicates: the obligation to worship Allah alone and keep far away from Shirk(worshiping others along with Allah).

Since Allah is Alone in His favours and His giving, having no partners, then likewise He is Alone in His Tawheed, not having any equal. [1] Obedience to Allah and His Messenger ‫ﷺ‬ No ibaadah (worship) is valid unless it coincides with the commands of Allah and the Messenger ‫ﷺ‬. Hajj is a worship prescribed by Allah on mankind so we listen and obey. The ultimate purpose behind every worship is obedience to Allah. And Hajj is a manifestation of obedience to Allah and His Messenger ‫ﷺ‬.

Piety Taqwa is translated as piety in English. Piety is the fruit of obedience and is also a purpose in itself. Piety is again to enjoin what Allah and the Prophet ‫ﷺ‬ ordered to enjoin and to abstain from what they asked us to abstain from.

In Hajj, Muslims practice piety from the time they decide to enter the state of performing the pilgrimage.

The pilgrims also abstain from what is normally permissible outside Hajj.

The result of this piety is that they return with their good deeds accepted and blessed to a new life full of Emaan and Taqwa, full of goodness and steadfastness, beautified with an eagerness to be obedient to Allah. [2] Hereafter Anything that reminds one of the Hereafter, the Judgement Day, is of tremendous benefit because the goal is to succeed there.

And Hajj is an excellent reminder of the Hereafter.

The two pieces of white cloth

that pilgrims wear to embark on the journey leaving behind all their worldly possessions reminds them of death and their final journey to Allah.

When pilgrims gather and stand in Arafah, they are reminded of how all human beings will stand on the Day of Judgment before Allah and be accounted for their deeds. Pilgrims pray and seek forgiveness at Arafah and return back hoping their sins are forgiven and that they will change for the better.

Honoring the symbols of Allah Whatever Almighty God has deemed sacred is sacred.

The things and places that Allah has deemed sacred are the symbols of Allah.

During Hajj, pilgrims honor, exalt and love the symbols of Allah and what He deems is sacred.

Allah says (what means): “...And whoever honors the Symbols of Allah indeed, it is from the piety of hearts.” [Qur’an, 22: 32] [3] Muslim unity Hajj is a beautiful scene of the unity of all believers

regardless of their classes, backgrounds, cultures, or languages. It’s a scene worth watching and feeling.

Muslims from around the world, rich and poor, stand as one community wearing two pieces of white cloth, manifesting the fact that Allah only sees what is in the hearts. No one is higher in status in front of God except by virtue of good deeds.

Hajj unites the hearts and gathers them to obey Allah, be sincere to Him, follow His Shariah, and abide by His commands and prohibitions.

This is why Allah says (translated): “Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for

mankind was that at Bakkah (Makkah), full of blessing, and a guidance for the ‘Alamîn (mankind and jinn).”

[Qur’an, 3:96] [4] Patience and certainty in Allah Hajj teaches us patience and having trust in Allah, especially during its rituals like the Sa’i. It reminds us of the trials of Hajar, wife of

Ibrahim A.S. It reminds us of her patience and certainty in obeying Allah’s commands.

She was commanded to stay with her baby in a desert without food and water.

People without faith would consider it an unimaginable thing to do. However, she was certain that if this was Allah’s command, He would take care of her.

Allah honored her and her baby with the miracle of Zamzam water in the midst of the desert, which till today continues to quench the thirst of millions of people.

This is just one example.

Hajj is no doubt a difficult journey and it used to more difficult in the past. Muslims must practice patience and have certainty in Allah for all their affairs. This will benefit them in life after Hajj.

Connecting with the past Hajj brings to mind the migration of Ibrahim (AS)as well as the divine command to put his son for sacrifice.

When Ibrahim (AS) showed full obedience and was ready to sacrifice, Allah sent a ram from paradise to be sacrificed instead of his son Isma’eel – the purpose was

to test Ibrahim’s faith, and indeed the prophets are tested the most.

So beloved to Allah was Ibrahim’s piety that He honored Ibrahim with an incredible status – a role model for prophets and people to follow until the Day of Judgment. Hajj is a commemoration of Ibrahim’s outstanding acts of obedience and the Call: 07 38656533

pilgrimage will continue until the Last Day. Hajj also reminds us of how Ibrahim and his son Isma’eel built the Ka’bah and Ibrahim’s call to people to perform Hajj. Little did they know that the building God was asking them to build in an uninhabited land was to become the main house of God’s worship for the entire earth.

Hajj also revives the memory of Hajjatul-Wada‘ (the farewell pilgrimage)of the last and final prophet, Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬who left his followers with advice that will keep them guided on the straight path until the end of time.

TEN AMAZING FACTS ABOUT THE KAABA There is no place on Earth as venerated, as central or as holy to as many people as Makkah. By any objective standard, this valley in the Hijaz region of Arabia is the most celebrated place on Earth.

Thousands circle the sacred Kaaba at the centre of the Haram sanctuary 24 hours a day. Millions of homes are adorned with pictures of it and over a billion face it five times a day.

The Kaaba is the epicenter of Mecca.

The cube shaped building is at the heart of the most well-known real estate in the history of mankind; it is shrouded in black and its fair share of mystery.

Here are just a few things that most people may not know about the Kaaba: It has been

reconstructed several timesgreats.

The Kaaba that we see today is not exactly the same Kaaba that was constructed

by Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail From time to time, it has needed rebuilding after natural and man-made disasters.

Of course, we all know of the major reconstruction that took place during the life of the Prophet before he became a Prophet . This is the occasion when the Prophet averted major bloodshed by his quick thinking on how to place the Black Stone using a cloth that every tribe could lift up.

Since then, there has been an average of one major reconstruction every few centuries. The last renovation took place in 1996 and was extremely thorough, leading to the replacement of many of the stones and re-strengthening the foundations and a new roof. This is likely to be the last reconstruction for many centuries (inshaAllah) as modern techniques mean that the building is more secure and stable than ever before.

It used to have two doors … and a window The original Kaaba used to have a door for entrance and another for exit. For a considerable period of time it also had a window situated to one side. The current Kaaba only has one door and no window.

It used to be multicoloured We are so used to the Kaaba being covered in the trademark black Kiswah with gold banding that we can’t imagine it being any other colour. However, this tradition seems to have started at the time of the Abbasids (whose household colour was black) and before this the Kaaba was covered in multiple colours including green, red and even white.

The keys are in the hands of one family At the time of the Prophet , each aspect to do with the rites of Hajj was in the hands of different sub-groups of the Quraish. Every one of these would eventually lose control of their guardianship of a particular rite except one. On the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet was given the keys to the Kaaba and instead of keeping it in his own possession; he returned them back to the Osman ibn Talha ® of the BaniShaiba family. They had been the traditional key keepers of the Kaaba for centuries; and the Prophet confirmed them in that role till the end of time by these words “Take it, O BaniTalha, eternally up to the Day of

Allah has imposed pilgrimage upon Muslims in a specific time each year, in one place, and in the same manner. Thus, they perform it in gatherings and not in scattered groups. They feel and see unity and brotherhood before their very eyes. Allah made their Hajj in the purest point, in the most sacred place, and in the best days, namely, the first ten days of the month of DhulHijjah.

Accordingly, they experience the sacredness of the place, time, and situation. Hence, they know their position among other nations and feel Allah's blessing, as He granted them this straight and sound religion. He favored Muslims by bringing familiarity among their hearts and making them loving brothers and sisters.

Resurrection, and it will not be taken from you unless by an unjust, oppressive tyrant.”

Whether Caliph, Sultan or King – the most powerful men in the world have all had to bow to the words of the Prophet and ask permission from this small Makkan family before they can enter the Kaaba.

It used to be open to everyone Until recently, the Kaaba was opened twice a week for anyone to enter and pray.

However, due to the rapid expansion in the number of pilgrims and other factors, the Kaaba is now opened only twice a year for dignitaries and exclusive guests only.

Watch the video attached here to witness the doors of the Kaaba being opened (at 50 seconds) – and the simultaneous gasps of a Million people as they cry out at this auspicious moment.

COVID-19 AND HAJJ 2020 THE SAUDI ARABIA HAJJ MINISTRY HAS DECIDED TO HOLD HAJJ WITH VERY LIMITED NUMBERS FOR THOSE WILLING TO PERFORM IT FROM ALL NATIONALITIES LIVING INSIDE THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA. INDIVIDUALS WILL BE TESTED BEFORE PERFORMING HAJJ AND WILL HAVE TO

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QUARANTINE AFTER THEY FINISH. ONLY RESIDENTS AND CITIZENS UNDER THE AGE OF 65 WILL BE ALLOWED TO PERFORM HAJJ THIS YEAR. THE PLAN FOR HAJJ THIS YEAR HAS BEEN OUTLINED WITH THE HELP OF THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH TO SET CORONAVIRUS PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES. SAUDI ARABIA HAS PREPARED A HOSPITAL IN CASE OF EMERGENCIES DURING THE HAJJ. THE MINISTER OF HAJJ SAID HE WANTS TO MAKE SURE HAJJ HAS SMALLER GROUPS TO ENFORCE SOCIAL DISTANCING. NUMBER OF HAJJ PILGRIMS THIS YEAR WILL NOT REACH TENS OF THOUSANDS OF PILGRIMS. THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTION FOR INTERNATIONAL PILGRIMS TO PERFORM HAJJ. IT WILL BE EXCLUSIVELY FOR PILGRIMS LIVING WITHIN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA. THEY WILL PROVIDE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR HAJJ THIS YEAR ACCORDING TO HEALTH PROCEDURES. THEY WILL COORDINATE WITH DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS TO REGISTER THEIR PILGRIMS. THEY APPRECIATE THE COUNTRIES THAT PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED THAT THEY WOULD NOT SEND THEIR PILGRIMS THIS YEAR. THEIR PRIORITY IS THE SAFETY OF PILGRIMS. IN AN EFFORT TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF ALL, THE HEALTH STATUS OF EVERY PILGRIM WILL BE MONITORED ON A DAILY BASIS. TAKBIR OF EID-ULADHAA ALLAAHU AKBAR ALLAAHU AKBAR ALLAAHU AKBAR LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU WALLAAHU AKBAR ALLAAHU AKBAR WALILLAAHILHAMD (ALLAH IS THE GREATEST, ALLAH IS THE GREATEST, ALLAH IS THE GREATEST THERE IS NO GOD

EXCEPT ALLAH, ALLAH IS THE GREATEST ALLAH IS THE GREATEST, AND FOR ALLAHIS DUE ALL PRAISE) ALLAAHU AKBAR KABEERAA WALHAMDULILLAAHI KATHEERAA (ALLAH IS MUCH GREAT AND MUCH PRAISE BE TO ALLAH) WA SUBHAANALLAAHI BUKRATOW- WA ASEELAA (AND GLORIFIED IS ALLAH IN THE EARLY MORNING AND LATE AFTERNOON) LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU WA LAA NA’BUD (THERE IS NO GOD EXCEPT ALLAHAND WE WORSHIP NONE EXCEPT HIM) ILLAA IYAAHU MUKHLISEENA LAHUDDEENA WA LOW KARIHAL KAAFIROON (MAKING THE RELIGION SINCERELY FOR HIM, EVEN THOUGH THE DISBELIEVERS HATE IT) LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU SADAQA WA’DAHU WA NASARA ABDA, (THERE IS NO GOD EXCEPT ALLAH,THE ONE, WHO HAS FULFILLED HIS PROMISE AND HELPED HIS SERVANT) WA A’AZZA JUNDAHU WA HAZAMAL AHZAABA WAHDA (AND GIVEN POWER TO HIS ARMY, AND HAS HIMSELF VANQUISHED THE OPPOSING FORCES) LAA ILAAHA ILLALLAAHU WALLAAHU AKBAR (THERE IS NO GOD EXCEPT ALLAH, ALLAH IS THE GREATEST ALLAAHU AKBAR WALILLAAHILHAMD (ALLAH IS THE GREATEST, AND FOR ALLAHIS DUE ALL PRAISE) ON BEHALF OF THE ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF ALGESTER, WE WISH ALL MUSLIMS A HAPPY AND SAFE EID UL ADHAA.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 27

REIA WELCOMES DRAFT REPORT INTO REFORMING GST AND REDUCING INEFFICIENT TAXES The Real Estate Institute of Australia has welcomed, Supporting the road to recovery, the Draft Report of the independent NSW Review of Federal Financial Relations.

The report notes that ‘There is a strong case for reforming the GST and reducing our reliance on more harmful taxes, while redirecting a portion of revenue to lower income households so they do not bear the burden of reform’ and it is ‘time for state and Commonwealth governments to agree to options for reforming our 20-year-old GST and scaling back inefficient taxes’ including stamp duty on property transactions.

“The REIA supports the call for the newly formed National Cabinet to commence the long overdue discussion to adjust the GST and remove inefficient taxes such as stamp duty on property transactions to boost economic growth at this crucial time and not let this report gather dust

"Taxes are one of the factors determining investment in housing and thus housing supply and housing affordability. The housing sector is one of the most heavily taxed sectors of the Australian economy, both in absolute and relative terms." on the bookshelf as others have,” said Mr Adrian Kelly, President of the Real Estate Institute of Australia.

“There are many earlier studies that reinforce the findings of this report that abolition of the efficient tax of stamp duty will bring economic and social benefits including assisting affordability by reducing the transaction costs of buying property. A notable earlier review, the Henry Review, said stamp duties on

conveyances are inconsistent with the needs of a modern tax system and should be replaced with a more efficient means of raising revenue.”

“Stamp duties on the transfer of property are the second-largest source of state tax revenue (generating 24 per cent of state tax revenue) yet they are a highly volatile tax, with revenue fluctuating by over 50 per cent.”

“Economic analysis shows that economic activity in Australia can be lifted by shifting the composition of taxes from high economic cost State taxes to lower cost Australia-wide taxes, without changing the overall level of tax revenues.”

“As this report notes, state governments cannot eliminate inefficient taxes without going into deficit or having to reduce expenditure substantially.

Hence cooperation between the Australian Government and the States is needed to undertake reform of inefficient state taxes.” concluded Mr Kelly.

Real Estate Agents Identify Assistance Measures Following a request by the Treasury’s Coronavirus Business Liaison Unit in regard to suggestions that will support the real estate industry, the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s member Real Estate Institutes surveyed their members.

The survey was regarding approaches that will assist the sector to achieve the Government’s objective of keeping as many Australians as possible employed and contribute to the economy as it recovers from the impact of the COVID19 pandemic.

President Adrian Kelly said the responses from agents across Australia, west to east and north to south, identified nine specific matters for Government’s consideration.

“The survey, and recommendations, thus reflect a regional perspective a well as a national aggregate.”

temporary concessions on land Tax 4Assistance for renters in vulnerable industry sectors.

4First Home Buyer Assistance 4Support for regional areas through infrastructure investment and support for businesses locating to regional areas 4Review the lower limit for HomeBuilder eligibility.

“The focus of the measures on Australia’s property industry recognises that it has been a main driver of economic growth and increased employment in the transition away from a reliance on mining,” said Mr Kelly.

“A healthy property sector has been a crucial support to economic growth over the previous three years.

“It stands to reason then that in these unprecedented times Government would consider a stimulus to the sector to boost expected low levels of unemployment and address growth in the Australian economy.”

The survey was regarding approaches that will assist the sector to achieve the Government’s objective of keeping as many Australians as possible employed and contribute to the economy as it recovers from the impact of the COVID19 pandemic. for some sectors including real estate agents 4Extension of JobSeeker for some sectors 4Abolish or at least a at least a temporary cessation of stamp duties on residential property 4Abolish or at least a temporary cessation of payroll tax 4Abolition or at least

The nine matters for consideration are: 4Extension of JobKeeper

CoreLogic Property Market Indicator Summary

All data to week ending 5 July 2020

CoreLogic Property Market Indicator Summary Preliminary clearance rate improves while fewer homes taken to auction

Auction volumes were down week on week across the combined capital cities, with a total of 1,185 homes scheduled for auction.

The lower activity which we have historically noted over school holiday periods, returned a preliminary clearance rate of 65.1%.

This was higher than last week’s preliminary figure of 64.5% across a higher 1,485 auctions, which later revised down to 60.6% at final collection. Looking at results from the first week of July last year, a lower 953 homes were taken to auction with a success rate of 64% according to final figures. Across Australia’s two largest auction markets, the lower activity across both cities saw the clearance rate improve. There were 439 Melbourne homes taken to auction returning a preliminary clearance rate of 64.3%, which was higher than last week’s preliminary figure of 62.7% across 645 auctions, with a final result of 61%. In Sydney, 563 homes were auctioned this week returning a preliminary clearance rate of 68.1%, higher than last week’s 66.9% preliminary result, when a higher number of auctions were held (644). The final clearance rate last week came in at 62.9%.

Capital City Auction Statistics (Preliminary)

55%

7

60.7%

69

2

7

16.7%

19

1

1

0

1

n.a.

3

58

38

31

7

43.1%

64

35%

Weighted Average

65.1%

1,185

843

550

293

64.0%

953

25%

Weekly auction clearance rate

4 week average

Clearance rate

100%

90% 80% 70%

60%

Sydney sub-regions

50%

Central Coast

40%

Baulkham Hills and Hawkesbury

30%

Blacktown

20% Jul 15

Jul 16

Jul 17

Jul 18

Jul 19

Jul 20

Weekly clearance rate, Sydney

Total auctions

CoreLogic auction results

n.a.

15

8

81.8%

20

11

n.a.

11

7

City and Inner South

68.0%

74

50

Eastern Suburbs

54.2%

69

48

Inner South West

70.8%

65

48

Inner West

71.4%

58

42

90%

North Sydney and Hornsby

73.9%

100

69

80%

Northern Beaches

64.1%

52

39

70%

Outer South West

n.a.

1

50%

Outer West and Blue Mountains

n.a.

4

3

40%

Parramatta

73.7%

24

19

30%

Ryde

76.5%

25

17

South West

52.2%

28

23

Inner

71.4%

90

70

Inner East

72.0%

37

25

Inner South

66.0%

63

50

60%

North East

70.0%

55

50%

North West

57.1%

44

40%

Outer East

71.4%

23

South East

71.4%

51

35

West

42.9%

68

56

n.a.

7

3

100%

60%

20% Jul 10

Jul 11

Jul 12

Jul 13

Jul 14

Jul 15

Jul 16

Jul 17

Jul 18

Jul 19

Jul 20

Weekly clearance rate, Brisbane 80% 70%

30% 20% Jul 11

Jul 12

Jul 13

Jul 14

Jul 15

Jul 16

Jul 17

Jul 18

Jul 19

Adelaide

0.0%

-0.3%

1.3%

2.1%

Perth

0.0%

-0.9%

-0.5%

-2.3%

Combined 5 capitals

-0.1%

-0.9%

1.7%

9.1%

Jul 20

Mornington Peninsula

Weekly clearance rate, Adelaide

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth Hobart Darwin Canberra

Combined Capitals

No of new listings

12 month change (%)

No of Total Listings

12 month change (%)

5,416 5,603 3,499 1,268 2,799 229 102 432 19,348

24.8% 18.1% -8.4% -14.8% 2.0% -29.3% -31.5% -12.6% 6.9%

19,717 23,418 17,076 6,189 14,341 864 841 1,804 84,250

-10.8% -1.7% -22.3% -19.8% -28.7% -23.5% -21.3% -27.5% -16.1%

Houses Capital city

Number of Sales

Number of Sales

Median price

Sydney

1,195

$790,000

659

$645,000

50

Melbourne

1,291

$685,000

642

$540,500

35

Brisbane

687

$496,000

180

$362,500

14

Adelaide

410

$455,000

86

$327,500

Perth

639

$459,000

189

$357,000

Hobart

104

$538,750

40

$355,000

Darwin

59

$515,000

21

$287,500

Regional auction results 22

12

Canberra

101

$745,000

94

$452,500

17

12

70%

Combined Capitals

4,486

$626,538

1,911

$521,045

Gold Coast

36.7%

52

30

n.a.

14

6

56.3%

19

16

60% 50%

Sunshine Coast

40%

Geelong

30%

20%

Media enquires contact:

Jul 16

Jul 17

Jul 18

Jul 19

Disclaimers: In compiling publication, RP Data Pty 1300 472 767 orthis media@corelogic.com.au Ltd trading as CoreLogic has relied upon information supplied by a number of external sources. CoreLogic does not warrant its accuracy or completeness and to the full extent allowed by law excludes liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any loss or damage sustained by subscribers, or by any other person or body corporate arising from or in connection with the supply or use of the whole or any part of the information in this publication through any cause whatsoever and limits any liability it may have to the amount paid to CoreLogic for the supply of such information.

70

Jun 11

Jun 12

Jun 13

Jun 14

Jun 15

Jun 16

Jun 17

Jun 18

60 Jun 20

Jun 19

Jul 20

The above results are preliminary, with ‘final’ auction clearance rates published each Thursday. CoreLogic, on average, collects 90% of auction results each week. Clearance rates are calculated across properties that have been taken to auction over the past week.

Queensland Data Based on or contains data provided by the State of Queensland (Department of Natural Resources and Mines) 2020. In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you acknowledge and agree that the State gives no warranty in relation to the data (including accuracy, reliability, completeness, currency or suitability) and accepts no liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for any loss, damage or costs (including consequential damage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for direct marketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

New listings

140,000

Total Listings

120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0

Jul-11

Jul-12

Jul-13

Jul-14

Jul-15

Jul-16

Jul-17

Jul-18

Jul-19

Jul-20

Units

Median price

41.7%

Jul 15

80

Median house and unit prices

Capital city private treaty median prices

66.7%

Jul 14

-3.0% Jun 10

These results are calculated across properties that have been advertised for sale over the 28 days ending 5th July 2020. A new listing is one which has not been previously advertised for sale within 75 days, total listings include new listings and properties which have been previously advertised.

Our newly improved weekly listings data has benefited from the introduction of additional data sources and system enhancements. We are confident that these upgrades will provide a more reliable reflection of listings activity in the real estate market, especially as the market goes through a period of uncertainty.

Wollongong

Jul 13

90

Number of homes for sale, combined capital cities

Hunter

Jul 12

100

-2.0%

Results are based on the CoreLogic Daily Home Value Index. Further information and daily updates on the index results are available from http://www.corelogic.com.au/research/daily-indices.html.

80%

Jul 11

110

-1.0%

*The monthly change is the change over the past 28 days.

90%

10% Jul 10

120

0

Melbourne sub-regions

90%

10% Jul 10

4.4%

Capital city

45%

Weekly clearance rate, Melbourne

Jul 14

1.4%

Capital city properties listed for sale

Jul 09 Jul 10 Jul 11 Jul 12 Jul 13 Jul 14 Jul 15 Jul 16 Jul 17 Jul 18 Jul 19 Jul 20

Jul 13

-0.5%

South Australian Data This information is based on data supplied by the South Australian Government and is published by permission.

The South Australian Government does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the published information or suitability for any purpose of the published information or the underlying data.

New South Wales Data Contains property sales information provided under licence from the Land and Property Information (“LPI”). CoreLogic is authorised as a Property Sales Information provider by the LPI.

$900,000 $800,000 $700,000 $600,000 $500,000 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0

Houses

Units $745,000

17

n.a.

Jul 12

-0.1%

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane

Adelaide

Perth

Hobart

Darwin

$452,500

65%

75%

81.6%

Jul 11

Brisbane

130

0.0%

$515,000

51

85%

Canberra

10% Jul 10

10.2%

$287,500

388

37.8%

95%

Tasmania

9

0.4%

$538,750

24

13

-1.1%

$355,000

43

22.2%

67.2%

25

15

-0.2%

140

1.0%

$459,000

70.8%

Perth

121

218

Melbourne

150

$357,000

Adelaide

125

267

13.4%

$455,000

40

3.0%

$327,500

339

68

-0.9%

160

Dwelling Index

$496,000

439

37.5%

-0.1%

Monthly Change in Index

2.0%

$362,500

563

64.3%

Brisbane

Sydney

3.0%

$685,000

68.1%

Melbourne

Total auctions (last year) 359

Uncleared auctions

12 mth change

Weekly Clearance Rate, Combined Capital Cities

Clearance rate (last year) 71.3%

Cleared auctions

Yr to date change

$540,500

Sydney

CoreLogic auction results 392

Monthly change

$790,000

Total auctions

Weekly change

Capital city

$645,000

Clearance rate

City

Monthly change in home value index, 5 capital city aggregate

Capital city home value changes

Canberra

Private treaty sales represent around 85% of all dwelling sales across the country. The statistics are calculated across houses and units sold over the most recent four week period. Records without a valid sale price have been excluded from the analysis.

To access detailed analysis of some of these key indicators on a suburb level, please log into your CoreLogic Professional system or contact us on info@corelogic.com.au.

Alternatively, ring 1300 734 318 to subscribe to Market Trends

Victorian Data The State of Victoria owns the copyright in the Property Sales Data which constitutes the basis of this report and reproduction of that data in any way without the consent of the State of Victoria will constitute a breach of the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth).

The State of Victoria does not warrant the accuracy Media enquires contact: or completeness of the information contained in or media@corelogic.com.au this report1300 and472 any767 person using or relying upon such information does so on the basis that the State of Victoria accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any errors, faults, defects or omissions in the information supplied.

Western Australian Data Based on information provided by and with the permission of the Western Australian Land Information Authority (2020) trading as Landgate.

Australian Capital Territory Data The Territory Data is the property of the Australian Capital Territory. No part of it may in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without prior written permission. Enquiries should be directed to: Director, Customer Services ACT Planning and Land Authority GPO Box 1908 Canberra ACT 2601.

Tasmanian Data This product incorporates data that is copyright owned by the Crown in Right of Tasmania. The data has been used in the product with the permission of the Crown in Right of Tasmania. The Crown in Right of Tasmania and its employees and agents: a: give no warranty regarding the data's accuracy, completeness, currency or suitability for any particular purpose; and b: do not accept liability howsoever arising, including but not limited to negligence for any loss resulting from the use of or reliance upon the data. Base data from the LIST © State of Tasmania http://www.thelist.tas.gov.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 29

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 31

Global Humanitarian Award Pushpinder Oberoi has been honoured for his work in the Queensland community of Australia, and has been awarded a “Global Humanitarian Award” 'World Humanitarian Drive' (WHD) in a bid to link faith leaders, other charities, and governments across the world to promote peace through education, sport, art and media and instil humanistic values in communities, particularly among young students.

Pushpinder Oberoi, Justice of Peace, President of Gopio Gold Coast and Multicultural Ambassador of Queensland of Mental Health Foundation, has been honoured for his work in Thurrock during the coronavirus lockdown, during which he has worked to help ease the pressures of isolation and has organised several 'treats' for local people including visits by the emergency services.

The award ceremony was organised by WHD-to honour

Ms Sara Wilson, Director of Global Operations WHD, announced Pushpinder Oberoi’ s award and said: “Your selfless contributions to humanity has set an example to many and inspired a lot in these times of hardships, giving the hope of sunshine through humanity.”

the individuals, organisations and community groups for their contribution during the COVID-19 crisis. More than 1,600 nominations from all the seven continents were received and 100 individuals,

organisations and community groups from 35 different countries were presented with awards in 12 categories.

The virtual ceremony was held yesterday (Sunday, 28 June) and was attended

“I am honoured and humbled to receive this award.

I thank my parents, friends and people of my area for their prayers and support.”

“Beyond any social work, you should first be human. It matters even if you are able to help a single human in need. Whenever I see suffering around, I never miss a chance to do my best to mitigate the suffering.”

by Chief Guests H. E. Fatmir Sejdiu (former President of Kosovo) and H. E. Madhav Kumar Nepal (former Prime Minister of Nepal). The chief guests congratulated the winners in their speeches.

Ms Sara Wilson, Director of Global Operations WHD, announced Pushpinder Oberoi’s award and said: “Your selfless contributions to humanity has set an example to many and inspired a lot in these times of hardships, giving the hope of sunshine through humanity.”

Pushpinder says “I am honoured and humbled to receive this award. I thank my parents, friends and people of my area for their prayers and support.”

“Beyond any social work, you should first be human. It matters even if you are able to help a single human in need.

Whenever I see suffering around, I never miss a chance to do my best to mitigate the suffering.”

WHD Chairman and founder Abdul Syed added: “Actions speak louder than words. The Covid stars serve as the best example for this phrase. These stars got into action and are helping humanity to fight against the deadly Covid-19.”

Perna Pahwa, founder and president of Simply HumanSuperheros without Capes was honoured& acknowledged with 2020 Humanitarian Award. Prerna said “I am truly humbled upon receiving this Global Honour and getting acknowledged for the work & fight against Covid-19 pandemic”.

On mental health she said “There are many who don’t bear out people who try to live life or accomplish something on their own terms. And when some outgrows them, individuals tend to resist the fact and start creating blockers around them. Again, it’s proven that name, fame, money and looks can’t buy happiness. Again, the reality has proven to be

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

so different than what it appears to be from outside.

Mental health and inner

STARS OF COVID ~ EVENT PR ~ “Actions speak louder than words”. The Covid stars serve as the best example for this phrase. These stars got into action and are helping humanity to fight against the deadly Covid-19. “Stars of Covid” is a part of World Humanitarian Drive (WHD) founder Mr.Abdul Basit Syed, initiative called “Honouring The Honourable”. Since the initiative started in 2018 it has inspired millions across the world as a mode to encourage, recognise and felicitate popular figures to common men who have contributed for the welfare of the society and the world.

WHD takes pride in honouring these stars who are promoting the best for humanity. The major objective of this event was to show gratitude and honour to the incredible volunteers who have always been contributing to the betterment of humanity especially during this crisis of Covid-19. When the entire world was shut down and afraid to step out, these stars lend a helping hand to the world out there that was battling against Corona. The nomination process for the event started on April 27, 2020. Over 1600 nominations from all the seven continents were received for this event reaching global recognition in such a short period.

The online honouring ceremony was held on June 28, 2020 - 2 P.M, London Time (GMT+1). The ceremony gleamed with the presence of notable Chief Guests H.E. Fatmir Sejdiu, Former President of Kosovo, H.E. Madhav Kumar Nepal, Former Prime Minister of Nepal, and Hon. Pedro I Altamirano, President of The National Assembly, Andalusia- Spain, along with Dr. Abdul Basit Syed, the Founder Chairman of WHD, the session was well moderated by Mr. Robin

peace have proven to be everything.

Let’s try and be kinder

Marsh, Secretary-General of UPF (UK).

World Humanitarian Drive proudly awarded 100 noble individuals, organizations and community groups from 35 different countries with the prestigious “GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN AWARD” with the first look of the book “Stars of Covid 100” along withlaunching the book “Reengineering Happiness”, both authored by WHD Founder, Abdul Basit Syed. The Chief Guests of the eventH.E. Fatmir Sejdiu, Former President of Kosovo, H.E. Madhav Kumar Nepal, Former Prime Minister of Nepal released the books and received the first online copies.

The honouring ceremony lasted for 1 hour 10 minutes with thought-provoking speeches of Chief Guests H.E. Fatmir Sejdiu, Former President of Kosovo and H.E.Madhav Kumar Nepal, Former Prime Minister of Nepal, both receiving Title of Honour “Patron of Humanity” Award from WHD Founder Abdul Basit Syed for their continuous contribution to support humanity. The ceremony ended with a valedictory wave as the award winners expressed their contentment for being recognized and honoured for their selfless act.

Awards were presented under twelve categories including Politicians, Journalist and Media, Government Officials and Administrative Services, Innovation and Technology, Medical Field, Trust / Charitable Organisations, Social Worker / Volunteer, Entrepreneur / Business / Corporates, Public Figures / Entertainers, Education and Research, Social Welfare Organization and Environment and Nature Preservation. The entire event was organised by WHD-World Humanitarian Drive.

from now on, as we have had enough lessons to learn from”

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 33

ROTARY MARKS ITS MARK IN 2020

To say that this Rotary year has been turbulent would be an understatement. Whilst it started with a lot of promise, there have been events that certainly made us sit up and re-evaluate what certain things mean to us. We saw the bushfires that ravaged across this nation of ours and then on the other end, we saw floodings take place simultaneously.

And then COVID-19 happened which brought the whole world down to its knees.

Never before had the world witnessed an event like this which forced humanity to take steps to ensure its survival and forced us to review our way of life. Never before has there been more need for volunteers to help where help is needed.

Never before has there been a need for organisations like Rotary to make a difference in peoples lives. Never before the importance of turning conversations into actions became a reality.

2019-20 saw the Rotary Club of Brisbane International (RCBI) undertaken at the helm by their first lady President, Mrs Nirmala Prasad which marked their fourth year since charter and it was a tremendous achievement by this very young club to embrace and acknowledge diversity and performance to ensure the longevity of this club is maintained. President Nirmala wasted no time in forging ahead with the club to carry out numerous service projects including overseas

which saw school bags and stationery being delivered to needy students in Fiji. There was also a major project which rolled on from the previous year where they installed five brand new air-conditionings in a local school. The long standing and ongoing project of feeding the homeless continued on a monthly basis and this was all done back of two very successful fundraisers in Bollywood in Bris-Vegas and the high tea.

Both these events have been signature fundraising events for the club.

Even when COVID-19 struck, this young club was instrumental in leading the way with Zoom meetings where a guest speaker was incorporated to continue to mark the significance of these meeting and at the same time inspiring its members to do their best. They were also one of the first clubs to charter their satellite club, now known as the Rotary Club of Browns Plains which a noteworthy achievement.

On 12th July, we will have the official changeover of the guards where we will see President Nirmala hand over the baton to incoming President, Mrs Soko Niko which promises to be another exciting year for the club. We sincerely thank all volunteers and organisations that have supported us thus far and we look forward to your continuous assistance in the future.

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 35

FOCUS ON FIJI New COVID-19 case in Fiji Man transferred from quarantine facility to Nadi Hospital, other test results tomorrow The Acting Permanent Secretary for Health, Doctor James Fong has confirmed that Fiji has recorded a new case of COVID-19.

It has been confirmed that the 66-year-old man tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday after returning from India last Wednesday.

The man’s son has also been tested and Doctor Fong says the result will be out tomorrow.

Doctor Fong says the man and his son have been transferred from the health

quarantine facility to Nadi Hospital.

The man had travelled back from India on a repatriation flight carrying 107 passengers.

The other passengers also remain in quarantine.

They have all been tested and the Health Ministry is awaiting the results.

Doctor Fong says none of the COVID-19 health guidelines have changed as it is a border quarantine case and it does not pose a risk to the community.

Fiji Airways starts recruitment for medicallyqualified customer wellness champions Fiji Airways is now recruiting for newly created role of medicallyqualified customer wellness champions.

The company says it is looking to recruit up to 30 customer wellness champions.

Fiji’s National Carrier says it is now preparing for the eventual resumption of international flights under strict health and medical safety requirements as part of the Travel Ready Program.

Fiji Airways says

the customer wellness champions will lead their medical safety response on

the ground and in the air.

It says the new role, a first of its kind for Fiji and the

Pacific region will lead and drive medical safety for Fiji Airways customers and staff.

Fiji Airways adds starting from the airport check-in and through to the conclusion of an international flight, the customer wellness champions will be responsible for ensuring adherence to all health requirements during service interactions.

The company says qualification in medical or pre-hospital care will be essential for the role.

COVID-19: Fiji Muslim 3 Students Amongst The 32 League And Sanatan Step In Arrested In Past 24 Hours For Breaching Curfew To Assist Students Whose Parents Have Been Laid Off Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji is also planning on assisting schools with meals. These will be for schools that come under Sanatan Dharm.

The Fiji Muslim League have been assisting various school students with food and school needs.

League president Hafiz Khan said the assistance was specifically provided to the children who were affected by COVID-19 and TC Harold.

“During these hard times, it is understandable that most parents have been laid off and we want to relieve the burden of the families who send their children to school by supplying them with stationary, food and other school needs,” he said.

Mr Khan said the teachers, among these schools, would do assessments on how many students needed assistance.

“We were planning to assist

22 Muslim school students in Fiji and this was entirely funded by the Fiji Muslim League,” he said.

Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji is also planning on assisting schools with meals. These will be for schools that come under Sanatan Dharm.

Its president Sarju Prasad said this assistance would be for those children whose parents have lost their jobs or cannot financially support their children.

“The teachers will be giving us the assessment results on how many children need meal assistance,” he said.

He said the Sanatan School Management would also be provided with the means to start the food donation.

“We have not started with this plan yet, but once the management board is ready, we will initiate with the meal donations,” Mr Prasad said.

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

The remaining six cases that were recorded including two students aged 15 and 16 years old who all found drunk and threw stones at houses in Natabua area in Lautoka.

A total of thirty -two arrests [32] were made in the last 24hours including three students involved in loitering and drinking alcohol. The Western Division recorded twenty- four arrests [24] whereby sixteen [16] people were found drunk including two students aged 15 and 16 years old. Of those sixteen, three men in their 20’s were arrested at S.M.Koya road area in Lautoka.

Three cases were also recorded at the Tomuka area in Lautoka, two others aged 28 and 19 years old were arrested at Waiyavi while two men were found drunk at the Martintar area in Nadi. The remaining six cases that were recorded including two students aged 15 and 16 years old who all found drunk and threw stones at houses in Natabua area in Lautoka. Five cases for loitering were recorded at the Nawaka area in Nadi.

Also arrested in the

Western Division is a 26 -year old man who was found walking at the Lauwaki area while the two other cases were recorded for loitering in the Vomo Area in Lautoka.

Five people were arrested in the Southern Division including a 14 -year- old student who was found loitering at the Maunikoso area in Nasinu. Also arrested is a 47 -year old security officer who was traveling in a vehicle without a valid reason. Three other cases were related to alcohol including a 29 -year old man who was resisting arrest and assaulting two officers when approached also damaging police vehicles in Lami.

The Northern Division recorded three cases where all people were arrested for drinking at the Tuatuta area in Labasa.

The inclusion of three students arrested for curfew breach over the last 24hours is a concern and please parents and guardians keep a close watch on your children and make sure everyone to be at home before the curfew hours.

Only 200 Teachers Paid Under MY APA: Fiji Teachers Confederation The Fiji Teachers Confederation (FTC) claims that only about 200 teachers were paid under the 2017-2018 My Annual Performance Assessment (My APA) payment.

FTC secretary general Agni Deo Singh said more than 98 per cent of more than 13,000 teachers nationwide had been denied their performance appraisal.

He said teachers, whose applications were unsuccessful, were informed they didn’t provide sufficient evidence in their My APA. Mr Singh said it was a wonder that the moderators, he claimed had no education background and were sitting in the education and civil service ministries, had overruled the immediate supervisors.

FTC believes that more than 80 per cent of teachers had received “Fully Competent” or “Exceeding Expectation” as grades and have all qualified for increments.

Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said in Parliament on May 29 that backdated payments to August 2018, would be made by the end of the 2019 -2020 financial year.

He said the moderation process was a critical component of the performance management system because it ensured that employees were rewarded for measurable contributions to the achievements of the ministry.

There are 13,449 teachers in the ministry and 578 nonteaching staff.

Where Does Rabuka’s Loyalty Lie? There has been considerable chatter on social media platforms about the appointment of Emele Duituturaga as Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) general secretary.

First, there was the leaked email, which claimed that applicant, Pio Tabaiwalu, was a better candidate and that he came out top on the rating done by recruitment agency Maxumise. Then, came the side-line commentary by supporters of the Kshatriya Hall faction.

It is true that Mr Tabaiwalu was the preferred candidate of Maxumise.

However, it is also true that every organisation, which uses a recruitment agency, does not necessarily go with the person recommended by the recruitment agency.

While SODELPA has many faults, the appointment of Ms Duituituraga is not one of it.

She is what the party felt they needed at this point in time.

What the party should really be concerned about is how Opposition Leader Sitiveni Rabuka had already set the platform to launch a new political party in the event SODELPA had been deregistered. That has been the biggest “flip-flop” drama seen in Fiji’s recent political history.

That has shown SODELPA where Mr Rabuka’s loyalty lie – to himself? To his Cakaudrove, Bua, Macuata bloc? To his Tui Cakau? Was his intention to come across as a mediator just a farce?

Had Mr Rabuka been sincere about SODELPA, he would have gracefully stepped aside as Ro Teimumu Kepa did after the loss in the 2014 General Election.

Mr Rabuka has time and again shown that he is not the decisive leader his supporters make him out to be. He has continued to do what suits his agenda.

Mr Rabuka waited on

the sidelines, waiting and pushing for the person of his choice for the position of General Secretary. This is what Registrar of Political Party, Mohammed Saneem, revealed. What was the need for this? While the party’s members such as Tanya Waqanika worked to get the Party unsuspended, why would Mr Rabuka go to Mr Saneem to have his candidate chosen? Mr Rabuka has denied this, but I and many among the rank and file of SODELPA would believe Mr Saneem over Mr Rabuka.

Mr Rabuka’s supporters on social media platforms had openly called for SODELPA to be deregistered. There is a group, which had gone ahead to form a fundraising group for the new party. Definitely a lot of thought was given to how this would be executed.

The only spanner in the works was that the Holiday Inn faction was determined to get the party unsuspended.

While they made some mistakes, they were quick to rectify it and their perseverance paid off.

WHAT NEXT? A new leader for SODELPA is the next big question.

Our reading of how things unfolded in recent weeks reveal some top contenders for the main post. We think that: Lawyer Filimoni Vosarogo, Members of Parliament Aseri Radrodro, Lynda Tabuya, Viliame Gavoka and Anare Jale may emerge as top contenders in the coming months. Will Ratu Epenisa Cakobau play a crucial role in determining who the leader will be? Will Mr Rabuka take this lying down? Will the talks of the new party start once again when he is not picked to lead SODELPA for the second time around? The platform has been set by his people.

They only await the green light from his side.

Yoga in Daily Life Australia celebrated IDY on 21 June 2020

For the celebration of the International Day of Yoga, all our Yoga in Daily Life centres around Australia offered free yoga programs at their locations and connected into a joint online whole-day event.

The event was supported by the High Commission of India in Australia.

Yoga has become very popular worldwide, and this day acknowledges the benefits it offers for all of humankind.

Also this free event is one of the ways that Yoga in Daily Life, as a not for profit

At 9.00 am the celebration was officially opened by Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Sri Swami Maheshwarananda Puriji, the author of Yoga in Daily Life, The System, with a short lecture on yoga: “Blessed Self’s, all dear friends, sisters, brothers and yogis, my salutation to all for this occasion of the International Day of Yoga. We are so happy that we can worship this day of Yoga. Yoga is the science for our ‘Annamayakosha’, ‘Pranamayakosha’, ‘Manomayakosha’, ‘Vigyanmayakosha’ and ‘Anandamayakosha’ (physical body, body of

community organisation, offers to help make yoga and its benefits accessible to all.

Since the number of participants in physical locations was restricted, respecting the Government’s Covid 19 guidelines, there were up to 15 participants at each location. However, many joined online, either for the whole event, or for parts of it, so that overall more than a hundred people gathered and celebrated with Yoga in Daily Life Australia the International Day of Yoga.

energy, body of mind, body of intellect and causal body) given by the God to all the humans to use it for their good health, happiness, harmony, joy and success in the life. Yoga is not a

11.00 - 11.45 on a beautiful sunny day in Pierce Park, Alexandra Parade, Cotton Tree, Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast, attendees enjoyed practicing Level 3 of the Yoga in Daily Life system.

religion. Yoga is created

by Guru, because God appears through holy saints, holy persons. The Gurus, teachers, are necessary to bring us to the perfections in numerous techniques of

Yoga and Sanatan Dharma principles, that are given to all humans. Every Guru has their disciples, techniques, and name of their school.

Therefore, every school, master and their techniques need to be equally respected in ones, under the principle ‘all in one and one in all’. Yoga in only one, it is the science of human consciousness, and by different Gurus it is presented under different names, so we should respect them all equally. Therefore, respect and adore your lineage, your Guru and your Guru’s Guru and so on. You might think that the Master dies, but he doesn’t die, He is always with us. Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti!”

11.45 - 12.30 Yoga in Daily Life teachers from the Sydney Ashram, guided attendees in the practices of Bari Kathu Pranam and Kathu Pranam with peace mantras.

The event was opened by Mr RamanandGarge, the Director of Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre of General Consulate of India in Sydney. After the class participants and the representatives from the Indian Consulate enjoyed the traditional Indian meal and chai.

12.45 - 13.30 (10.45 - 11.30 according to the local time in WA) many enjoyed a beautiful yoga class in Perth with Sarva Hitta Asanas from Level 1 of the Yoga in Daily Life system in Rostrata Family Centre building, Prendwick Reserve, Prendwick Way, Willetton, Perth.

9.15-10.00 Yoga in Daily Life Melbourne streamed a class based on IDY Common Yoga Protocol.

9.15-10.00 Yoga in Daily Life Brisbane taught a Level 2 class based on the Yoga in Daily Life system at Waterfront Park, Newstead, Brisbane

13.30 – 14.15 from Yoga in Daily Life Adelaide, attendees on-line were guided into a deep relaxation (Yoga Nidra) and a short meditation.

14.15 – 14.40 an impressive demonstration of the Level 8 asanas performed by Yoga in Daily Life Tasmania!

14.40 The founder of Yoga in Daily Life, Vishwaguru Mahamandaleshwar Paramhans Sri Swami Maheshwarananda Puriji, officially closed the event: “My dear friends, my brothers, my siters, my disciples, all yoga practitioners and all yoga masters from the whole world, I am happy to have celebrated today with all of you the Day of Yoga. The 21st of June is the day when the Sun again turns to other direction, it is one of the biggest days of the whole year and for the whole world. I would like to thank to all of you who were today with us, watching us and practicing with us and I hope that the next year we will again meet for even more beautiful program. God bless you, wish you all the best!

NahamkartaPrabhu Dip karta. Mahaprabu Dip karta hi kevalam. Walk on the path of Yoga in Daily Life! Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti!”

At 10.00 and 12.30 Mahamandaleshwar Swami Jasraj Puri chanted, translated and explained the two mantras “Samgacchadhvam Samvadadhvam”, and “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah”, followed by a short meditation to allow the vibration of the chanting to radiate in our inner space and take a form of a prayer in our hearts.

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www.indiantimes.com

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 37

Coronavirus India: Man spends $5k on custom face mask made out of gold An Indian man who paid thousands of dollars for a custom gold face mask to protect him from COVID-19 says he isn’t sure it will prevent him from contracting the infectious disease.

Businessman Shankar Kurhade, from the western city of Pune, spent 289,000 rupees or $A5574 on the detailed face covering.

The 49-year-old said it took craftsmen eight days to make the mask from the precious metal.

“It is a thin mask and has tiny pores that is helping me to breathe,” he told Agence France-Presse.

“I am not sure if it will be effective to protect me from a coronavirus infection but I am taking other precautions.”

Back in April, India made the wearing of face masks mandatory for people outside the home.

When going out, Mr Kurhade said he likes to adorn himself with gold jewellery weighing one kilogram including a bracelet, necklace and rings on each finger of his right hand.

He told the AFP he got the idea for the gold mask after seeing a media report about a man wearing one made from

silver.

“People are asking me for selfies,” he said.

“They are awe-struck when they see me wearing the gold mask in markets.”

The Indian Express reports Mr Kurhade, from the industrial township of Pimpri-Chinchwad, said he “didn’t do it for publicity”.

“I’m fond of gold,” he said.

“It is not the gold or cloth mask, but social distancing and hand washing that will protect human beings from coronavirus.”

Businessman Datta Phuge

became known as India’s “gold man” in 2012 when he had a shirt made from 14,000 pieces of 22-carat gold, totalling almost 3.5kg.

It was worth 12.7 million rupees, or around $240,000 at the time, and put together by 15 craftsmen over 16 days.

However in 2016, Mr Phuge was bludgeoned to death by a group of people over a suspected monetary dispute.

According to the World Health Organisation on Sunday, there were 212,326 new cases of COVID-19

recorded across the globe in 24 hours and 22,771 of those were in India.

The health ministry reported 613 deaths in 24 hours – the biggest daily spike since the first case was detected in late January.

The sharp rise came as Delhi started treating patients at a spiritual centre converted into a sprawling isolation facility and hospital with 10,000 beds, many made of cardboard.

About the size of 20 football fields, the facility will treat mild symptomatic and asymptomatic cases.

The Johns Hopkins University tally states India has recorded the fourth most coronavirus cases in the world, totalling more than 670,000, and the eighth most deaths at more than 19,200.

The country of 1.3 billion people began easing its lockdown in June, reopening restaurants, shopping centres and places of worship where limits have been placed on congregation numbers.

Schools, metro trains in cities, cinemas, gyms and swimming pools remain closed however and international flights are still grounded.

9,900 beds free, no scarcity in capital: Kejriwal Fewer Covid-19 patients in Delhi now require hospitalisation, and the capital has ample beds and more ICU capacity than is needed at the moment, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday.

Kejriwal accompanied Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on a visit to a temporary hospital set up by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in the city.

The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Covid-19 Hospital on Ulan Batar Marg near the airport in the Delhi Cantonment area, has 1,000 beds, including 250 in the Intensive Care Unit.

“Less and less people in Delhi are now requiring hospitalisation, more and more people are getting cured at home. Whereas there were around 2,300 new patients daily last week, the number of patients in hospitals has gone down from 6,200 to 5,300.

Today, 9,900 corona beds are free,” Kejriwal posted on Twitter before the visit to the hospital in the afternoon.

Afterward, the CM said, “For now, there is no scarcity of hospital beds. We have over 15,000 beds, out of which 5,300 are occupied. There is a paucity of ICU beds. If there is

any spike in Covid cases, these ICU beds are very critical for us.”

Of the 996 ICU beds available in Delhi without ventilators, 434 are currently unoccupied. Another 898 ICU beds are equipped with ventilators, of which 338 are currently available.

Kejriwal thanked the Centre for starting the facility: “I thank the central government on behalf of Delhiites. It (the hospital) has 250 ICU beds, which is very much needed in Delhi at the moment.”

Delhi has had 99,444 cases of novel coronavirus infection so far, and has 25,038 active cases currently.

The DRDO hospital was readied in just 12 days. The facility, constructed using rapid fabrication technique, has air conditioning valves

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

running through the ceiling.

The ICU ward is named after Col B Santosh Babu, the Indian Army officer who lost his life along with 19 of his men in the clash with Chinese soldiers in Galwan Valley on June 15.

The facility will be run by a team of the Armed Forces Medical Services, and will be maintained by DRDO. The Ministries of Home and Health, along with the armed forces and the Tata Trust, have helped build the hospital.

After the visit, Home Minister Shah tweeted: “PM Narendra Modi ji is fully committed to helping the people of Delhi in these challenging times and this Covid hospital, yet again, highlights the resolve. I thank DRDO, Tatas and our Armed Forces Medical personnel who have risen to the occasion and helped tackle the emergency.”

The air conditioning ducts will release pressurised air inside the facility, and will not re-circulate the air to ensure that clean, non-infected air is available inside, an official at the site said. The hospital will be opened to patients on Monday, after the process of installing the air conditioning is completed in the general wards.

Lt Gen Dr Madhuri Kanitkar, who was present during the visit of Kejriwal

and the Union Ministers, said 600 personnel, including doctors, nursing officers and paramedical staff, will be deployed during the first month.

DRDO spokesperson Narendra Arya said: “The hospital is a referral facility and will be run by the Armed Forces Medical Services. Some preparations are ongoing still.”

Counselling will be provided for the mental well being of patients. Each bed is equipped to have oxygen, and X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), haematological test facilities, and ventilators are available at the facility, apart from a Covid test lab.

A statement issued by the Press Information Bureau said the Home Minister had held a series of meetings since June 14 to review Covid-19 management in Delhi-NCR. “An urgent need to augment the existing hospital beds capacity… was discussed between the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Defence on the modalities of deploying a 1,000 bed hospital in a span of less than 14 days…

Critical cases will be referred to AIIMS… Commissioning of this Hospital will contribute to an increase of 11% additional Covid-19 beds in Delhi, thus overcoming the current critical situation,” the statement said.

Coronavirus update: India records highest single-day total as businesses prepare to reopen

India has reported 9,971 new coronavirus cases, the biggest single-day spike in the country since the outbreak began.

In Australia, the ACT has recorded its first new case in more than a

month, and the Deputy Chief Medical Officer says while the COVIDSafe app will be crucial in tracking any potential spread from yesterday's Black Lives Matter protests, it may not be enough.

Explained: Ladakh standoff enters week 9, what are India’s options on China border now?

The stand-off between the Indian and Chinese armies in eastern Ladakh is now in its ninth week.

A conversation between the two foreign ministers, three rounds of Corps Commander-level talks, other discussions at the diplomatic and military levels have failed to break the impasse. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the “enemies of India have seen the fire and fury of our forces”, and warned that “India’s commitment to peace should not be seen as its weakness”.

OPTION 1: Evict the Chinese by force, destroy what they built The most straightforward course of action would be for Indian soldiers to push out the Chinese from the new areas that they have occupied in the last eight weeks, and destroy all the infrastructure China has built on the Indian side of the LAC. This, however, will almost certainly lead to military escalation and in a full-blown war. Even the limited attempt to evict the Chinese from the observation post near PP14 on June 15 led to the clash in which 20 Indian soldiers and an unspecified number of Chinese lost their lives.

In the areas where the Chinese have come over to the Indian side of the LAC, the Indian Army may not be well disposed, due to constraints of terrain or infrastructure, to execute such a precisely targeted operation successfully. Also, some of the areas that the Chinese have entered are claimed by both countries, with no agreement over the alignment of the LAC. This will make it difficult for New Delhi to garner international support for its move.

OPTION 2: ‘Quid pro quo’ tactic There are areas on the LAC that are not strongly defended by the Chinese, where Indian soldiers can move in and occupy a swathe of Chinese territory.

At the negotiating table, the two sides can then exchange the occupied territories, and restore status quo ante. This option has been discussed at the highest levels — most noticeably in the 2012 policy document ‘Nonalignment 2.0’ — and is believed to have also been war-gamed by the military.

According to strategic affairs analyst Ashley Tellis, the 2013 Chinese incursion in Depsang was reversed within three weeks after the Indian Army moved to the Chinese side in Chumar, and did some construction of their own. In the negotiations that followed, the two sides agreed to return to their earlier positions.

The ‘QPQ’ option exists even now, as the entire LAC from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh cannot be physically defended by the Chinese army. But such proactive options have a certain window of opportunity, which may have been lost after eight weeks of tensions. Also, it carries the risk of military escalation, as the Chinese may misread it as a larger military attack, or see it as a provocation.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 39

Hepatitis B and women If a woman has hepatitis B what are some of the things they should be aware of?

How often should women see their doctor for check-ups?

• Women should see their doctor regularly. Sometimes they may need to see the doctor every 3, 6 or 12 months depending on: o The stage of their infection o Where they were born o How old they are. o Family history What tests will their doctor ask them to do?

• Women should be asked to do the following: o A blood test to check liver function at least every 6-12 months o A blood test to check how much virus is in their blood at least every 12 months. It is called a hepatitis B DNA viral load test o A liver ultrasound every 6 months if they are over 50 years of age and were born in an Asian country, and over 20 years of age if born in Africa. This is to check for liver cancers. o A Fibroscan may be requested to check if any damage has been caused to their liver due to the virus.

Will they need treatment for hepatitis B? • Not everyone needs treatment.

• Their doctor will let them know if they need treatment after assessing their different tests every time.

Is it safe for women to take other medications if they have hepatitis B? • Women should let their doctor know if they have hepatitis B (especially if not their regular doctor). The

doctor will check to make sure any medication prescribed is safe for them to take.

• Special consideration may be required regarding oral contraception as the liver may have problems metabolising the medication and this may make it less effective. This is an important issue to discuss with the doctor.

• Any over the counter medications, herbal medicines and traditional medications should be discussed with the doctor as they can sometimes cause liver damage, reduce the effectiveness of some medications and in some cases interact with othermedicationswhich can be very harmful.

Can a woman have a baby if they have hepatitis B? • Yes. Pregnant ladies should let their doctor know as soon as they are pregnant so they can be monitored appropriately.

• Some women who have hepatitis B may need treatment during the pregnancy if they have a high viral load (high numbers of virus in their blood). o A sudden rise in the amount of virus in the blood is called a ‘flare’. o Treatment will reduce the amount of virus which will help prevent the baby becoming infected during the birth, and can also protect the mother.

• Pregnant women do not need to give birth by caesarean section unless medically necessary.

• Mothers who have hepatitis B can safely breastfeed – unless they have bleeding nipples. They should talk to their ante-natal nurse about what to do.

• Babies born to mothers with hepatitis B are given 2 injections at birth o The first is HBIG –this is an immunoglobulin that provides fast protection against infection for the baby o The second is the first of the 4 doses of hepatitis B vaccine. The remainder are due at 2, 4 and 6 months.

• Babies born to mothers with hepatitis B should have a blood test at least 3 months after their last dose of the hepatitis B vaccine to make sure they have developed protection (immunity) against the hepatitis B virus.

• Mothers who have recently given birth who have hepatitis B should see their doctor regularly after the birth to make sure they do not have any increase in viral load. This is called a flare and can sometimes happen in the weeks after the birth.

Remember hepatitis B is a blood borne virus and is not spread by hugging, kissing, touching, sharing food, breastfeeding or bathrooms etc.

Mothers can have happy healthy hepatitis B free children if appropriate care is undertaken.

Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)

Queensland is still looking for The Missing Thousands Every year the 28th of July is World Hepatitis Day. This day raises awareness of Hepatitis around the world.

ECCQ’s Hepatitis, HIV and Sexual Health Program would like to encourage all people, who have not had, or don’t know or remember if they have ever had a blood test to check for hepatitis B or hepatitis C, to ask their GP to do the test.

The majority of people who come to live in Australia are not tested for hepatitis, or when they have routine blood tests with their doctor or at the hospital.

Around the world hepatitis B and hepatitis C cause many deaths. It is estimated 1.4 million deaths each year are caused by hepatitis B and C.The risk of developing a liver cancer over their lifetime is 25 to 40% higher for people who have chronic hepatitis B. Many millions of people may also suffer significant health problems due to cirrhosis and liver failure caused by hepatitis B and hepatitis C. We know people from Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries have a higher prevalence of hepatitis B and C. In Australia there are; • Vaccines available to

protect against hepatitis B if the person has never had the virus or the vaccine before • Treatments to help reduce the effects of the hepatitis B virus, if needed • Treatments to CURE hepatitis C but unfortunately no vaccine.

Hepatitis B and C are common infections around the world that are mainly spread from blood to blood contact.

By an infected person who may not even know they have the infection. This is why it is so important to check and to know.

Infections can occur: • At birth. If the mother has hepatitis B it can pass to the baby, this is the most common way people are infected.

Infection at birth is very rare for hepatitis C. • From unsterile medical and dental procedures performed overseas, sharing toothbrushes, razors etc with a person that had the virus, some traditional tattooing and other cultural practices including acupuncture etc, where even the smallest amount of blood (even that which cannot be seen) may pass from an infected person to another person’s blood.

• Sometimes but much

less common through sexual contact.

By knowing if you have the infection you can protect yourself from developing significant illness caused by the hepatitis B or C virus, protect your partner and children, your family and friends.

Are you one of the missing thousands?

Please ask you GP for a blood test to check. By testing and treating we can all reduce the spread of these viruses and hopefully reach the target of 90% of people in the world knowing if they have the virus by 2030.

Contact us ECCQ’s Hepatitis, HIV/ AIDS and Sexual Health Program can provide free Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and STIs information, resources and support in different languages: Website: eccq.com.au/bbv Phone: 07 3844 9166 Email: health@eccq.com.au If you live in Cairns, you can also contact: HIV, Viral Hepatitis, Sexual Health Coordinator Cairns Sexual Health Service 381 Sheridan St, Cairns North, QLD, 4870 Phone: 07 4226 4760

You can also contact our staff directly who speaks your language: Staff Name

Language we speak

Phone

Email

Angeline

French, Kirundi, Kinyarwanda, English

0481 838 692

angelinem@eccq.com.au

Christine

Acholi, Juba Arabic, Swahili, English

0479 036 383

christineo@eccq.com.au

Daniel

Dinka, Arabic, Juba Arabic, English

0479 062 234

daniela@eccq.com.au

Evelyn

Burmese, English

0481 827 751

evelynp@eccq.com.au

Iqbal

Dari, English

0419 468 859

iqbalp@eccq.com.au

Lazaro

Swahili, Kirundi, English

0479 153 742

lazarok@eccq.com.au

Samantha

Chinese, English

0479 130 997

chinese@eccq.com.au

Tam

Vietnamese, English

0428 223 052

vietnamese@eccq.com.au

Powerful Home Remedies for Reducing Hair Loss Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013 Hey Girls, Thick, full, and glossy tresses are every woman's dream.

But, several factors may lead to massive hair loss, which can be really embarrassing in the long run.

We all maybe hunting for a quick fix to this problem, but if you want to walk the natural path, know that most home remedies work great in reducing hair loss but they do it gradually.

So, before stepping into the homemade solutions scene, arm yourself with patience, as you may need several weeks to months to notice real results. Also, before diving into the topic of our post, let’s take a look at the top symptoms and causes of hair loss

Home Remedies for Hair Loss 1. Coconut Milk Everything coconut can help your hair grow back thicker, faster, and stronger. Coconut milk in particular is one of the richest sources to nourish the hair follicles.

You can make coconut milk at home by grinding the grated coconut and squeezing out its juice (milk). This is a natural home remedy to prevent hair loss which used by our granny and Nani.

2. Aloe Vera Gel Pure aloe gel or aloe juice can be applied directly to the scalp. Aloe is an amazing home remedy for hair loss due to a dry or infected scalp.

After massaging the scalp with juice or gel, wait for a few hours and wash it off with lukewarm water.

Combine aloe vera with Trifala powder to use on your hair for 3-6 months to treat hair loss.

3. Oil Massage Regular massage of hair and scalp with warm oil stimulates the blood flow and helps hair follicles produce new hairs at enhanced rates.

You can use coconut oil for the massage or any other plant oils with tried and tested benefits for hair, such as olive oil, jojoba oil, mustard oil, castor oil, and almond oil. You can mix up to three of your favourite natural oils.

Just make sure that the oil is not hot as it can damage hair follicles and that you massage the scalp with gentle moves.

4. Indian Lilac (Neem) Neem is a plant, which is ornamented with all the essential qualities. It is anti-bacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-diabetic, sedative, and antiseptic in nature.

It is not only useful in diseases but is also an excellent home remedy for hair loss. Boil leaves of neem in water until the water remains half. Let it cool and wash your hair once in a week with this

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

water.

5. Gooseberry (Amla) Boil some dried amla in coconut oil till the oil gets black. Massaging the scalp with this oil will prove to be very effective. Amla can also be used alternatively by making its paste with shikakai. Apply the thick paste and wash it after a few minutes.

Note- Avoid shikakai if you have dry hair.

Juice of gooseberry and lime juice can be used as a shampoo to treat hair fall. Amla is also helpful when mixed with honey.

6. Onion Juice and Garlic Both onion juice and garlic are a rich source of sulphur, and they help in the growth of hair. To use the onion, you need to chop it finely and extract out the juice.

Massage the scalp well with this juice and wash off with a mild shampoo. Onion can also be paired with honey and used as a hair mask.

Garlic can be applied on the scalp by boiling it with coconut oil.

Massage the scalp with this potion, two to three times a week, for the best results.

7. Hibiscus Hibiscus flower has revitalizing properties, and it nourishes hair.

Along with preventing untimely growth of grey hair, it also keeps dandruff at bay. Hibiscus also helps in preventing hair loss.

8. Egg Yolk Eggs are a rich source of sulphur, iron, protein, phosphorus, iodine

and zinc. It is an excellent remedy for re-growth of hair, especially when combined with olive oil.

Egg yolk and honey can also be applied as a natural treatment for hair loss.

9. Pigeon Pea or Red Gram Application of fine and thick paste of red gram or pigeon pea is an effective way of curing hair loss, naturally.

10. Lime and Black Pepper Seeds Lime and black pepper, when ground finely and applied on the scalp, prove to be a very good cure for averting hair loss.

11. Fenugreek Fenugreek can also be applied to hair to prevent hair loss. It also softens the strands and provides lustre to them. Make a fine paste of dried fenugreek seeds and apply it as a hair mask.

12. Henna Henna is widely used in Asian countries and is regarded as a major source of hair strengthening.

Some people apply it as a hair mask by mixing powdered henna in curd.

Alternatively, henna can also be used in leaf form. Boil 60g of henna leaves with 250ml of mustard oil until all the leaves burn entirely.

Filter the oil with muslin cloth and store the oil in an airtight jar. Apply the oil on a daily basis to seek good results. Henna can also be applied by mixing it with beetroot juice.

13. Homemade Hair Packs • Pack 1: Mixture of aloe vera,

shikakai, amla, and neem powder can be applied to get thick and lustrous hair.

• Pack 2: Paste of henna, egg whites and curd together stop hair fall.

• Pack 3: Hair pack, prepared by mixing together olive oil, honey, and cinnamon, is also an effective hair growth pack.

14. Camphor and Curd Take an equal amount of curd and camphor. Mix them and apply on the bald patches. Let it dry for at least two hours and then, wash. This treatment helps to fight with the problem of hair loss and baldness.

15. Geranium or Rosemary Leaves Rinsing the hair with water, in which, geranium or rosemary leaves have been boiled, is a good natural remedy for curing hair loss at home.

Rosemary herb is believed to have properties, which can keep hair healthy and luscious. Mix one part of rosemary oil with two parts of almond oil. Massaging the scalp with it for twenty minutes a day can prove to be beneficial. This is an excellent remedy for hair loss in women.

Preventive Measures against Hair Loss Consume food, which is rich in vitamin A, B, C, E, protein and iron.

Intake flaxseeds, fish and walnuts to get fatty acids, which is

essential for natural health of hair.

Increase the quantity of biotin, silica and zinc in your meal as it induces hair growth as well as keeps the scalp healthy.

Avoid using hot or warm water for hair wash as it increases hair loss.

Do not use very hard shampoos on hair; instead, go for mild ones that contain moisture Use steam to rejuvenate your hair. Dip a clean towel into hot water, squeeze the excess water and cover your hair with the towel.

Leave it till the towel cools down.

This increases blood flow towards the scalp and even clean the pores, present on the scalp.

Rubbing of fingers vigorously on the scalp after washing hair also increases blood circulation and prevents hair loss.

Drink adequate amounts of water, based on your weight and sodium intake.

Keep your scalp clean and avoid dirt and dust.

Hair trimming is again a good option for preventing loss of hair.

Do not tie back your hair tightly.

Do not comb your hair when it is wet, and do not even towel-dry it again and again roughly.

Avoid blow drying on a daily basis. It damages hair follicles and makes the scalp dry.

Hope you will benefit from this information. Keep smiling be healthy. See you next month.

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JULY 2020

Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

You might be able to start something new this month. Your confidence level and self-esteem may help you to get success. Your luck is likely going to back your efforts and give you an amazing time. Employees are likely to get a promotion.

This month may prove great for your career and business. Your seniors may appreciate your dedication to your work. It is advisable for businessmen to be cautious during the first half of this month. This month might be full of joyous moments for your relationships. You may have an amazing time with your family members; though a shift in your partner’s behavior may disappoint you. This month may prove a little challenging for your business. If you have a partnership business, you must be cautious with your business partner. If you already are in a relationship, you may get amazing time with your loved one. Unmarried people may get attractive proposals during this month. If you want to propose to your loved one, this month may give you a positive result. You may face some issues in your career during this month. Government employees awaiting for their transfers may get one during this month. If you are planning to initiate something new, you may find this month in your favor. People involved in the IT field may get a significant achievement. In order to focus more on your studies during this month, eliminate negative thoughts from your mind.

Your focus might be on your career during this month, and your experience is likely going to help you in gaining profits and achieving your goals. If you are looking for changing your job, this month may provide you with some lucrative offers. You may get amazing opportunities for growth for your career and business. Your dedication to your job might be appreciated by your seniors; you may even get a higher position. You may be highly confident and may showcase your talent and might impress others. The productivity of your business may increase as well. Students are advised to be more focused on their studies at the beginning of this month, and they should take the advice of an expert before appearing in any competitive exams.

Businessmen may focus on expanding their businesses. This month may prove amazing for your studies. You may focus on learning new things; your indulgence and performance in extracurricular activities might be high as well. This month may also favor students indulged in psychology, sculpturing, music, dancing, acting, and literature. For couples, this month is likely going to favor you. You may spend some quality time with your life partner. For finance and money matters, you may get some ancestor's property during this period. This period may be good to buy precious metals like gold and silver. Your health may support you during this period. No major illnesses are foreseen.

You are likely to win over your enemies and competitors during this month. Your action and work might prove to be impeccable and your goodwill is likely to increase. If you want to get a transfer, this month may prove beneficial for you.

You may get new opportunities during this month for your career. You are likely to spend some money on luxurious things. Businessmen who are in the import or export field may flourish well during this period. You may give a tough fight to your competitors. If you are indulged in a business of accessories or fabrics, this period might give you favorable times. You may have to be cautious and take care of your health and diet during this month. You may feel tired and your health may deteriorate. There are chances of infections as well. Your career might be all set to move forward, and you may get many great opportunities during this month. You might expand your business. There are no major financial benefits for you during this month. Though, minor gains during this month may help you burn the motivation. This month may prove to be favorable for couples. However, the chances of differences in opinions are foreseen. For students in higher education, this month may be in their favor. Students are likely to join additional classes or specialized training for increasing their knowledge and skills.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

For your career and business, this month might prove quite good for you. You may express yourself really well during this time, and your communication skills might be amazing. For discussing or showcasing your innovative ideas to your clients or associates, this month may favor you. For expanding your business, this month may favor you. You are likely to go on a business trip and meeting new people on the trip might prove advantageous for your business. Legal matters may also fall in your favor. The beginning and ending days of this month may favor employees. The probability of you getting some good news is quite high for this month. Employees are likely to have a higher workload during this month; they may have to bear the brunt of someone else’s mistakes. Students might have to work harder for getting their desired results at the beginning of this month. You may witness a few ups and downs in your academics during this month. Students in technical, arts, commence of banking field are likely to find this month in their favor. For couples, this month may be favorable. Existing problems between you and your partner may also get resolved. Even though no major illnesses are foreseen, you are advised to take proper care of yourself.

You may not feel satisfied with your job during this month, but getting a new role or responsibility may keep you busy. Your career might reach new heights of success during this month. You may resolve your existing problems as well. Your seniors may provide you with great support. Your partnership business may also get a challenging time. You may achieve your goals during this time. You may learn about your own potential and abilities during this time. If you take any project during this month, you might get success in completing it. Your investments may prove beneficial for you and your income might increase as well. Businessmen may be able to expand their business. During this month, you may feel a little lazy and should indulge in doing some physical activities. If you are suffering from high/low blood pressure, walking or exercising can benefit you. You are advised to get your check-ups done on a regular basis. There are chances of issues related to cold and cough during this time; thus you may have to be cautious. If you have started a new relationship, you may get the chance to spend some quality time with your loved one. You may have to tackle your family’s demands very politely. For students, this month may favor you for making decisions regarding further studies. You may feel interested in extracurricular activities. If you are taking any medical examinations, you may pass with flying colors.

You may have more workload during this month, which might make you feel tired. You are advised not to get into any conflicts with your seniors. Your co-workers or seniors may not support you much during this time. The situation may improve by the end of this month. You may get a scholarship during this month, which may prove fruitful for your career.

Businessmen are likely to go on a business trip during this period. It is advisable for you to work with dedication, and all your hard work may pay you off sooner or later.The mid-month may require students in school to be really cautious about their academics as they might get distracted from their goals. You might be really hard-working during this time for your academics, but your luck may not favor you in achieving success easily. The initial few days of this month might bring great improvements to your financial situations. You may get some benefits from the stock market. For love and relationships, you may face a few ups and downs in your relationship. However, the overall month may be favorable for you. Because of long working hours, your health may get affected adversely during this month.

Your energy level may also drop. You are advised to be careful while driving a vehicle.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

It might be a good time to think of expanding your business as the stars seem to be in your favor throughout the month. Joining hands with new ventures might be advantageous to you in the long run. Your fatigue may seem to disrupt your health routine, but you must remember to prioritize your health above all. Students may get good results during this period. Such results may charge your spirits. You may stay encouraged. New ideas may encourage you to achieve your goals. Students in the scientific field may witness the improved academic performance. Your career-wise journey seems to be smooth. Nonetheless, it is necessary to take care of any plans that might hinder your development. Your constant efforts may deliver positive results. Such results may charge your spirits and present you in a new light. Your hard-working image may impress your superiors and subordinates. Rapid financial gains might be required for your health and legal expenses. You may also invest such gains for your child’s future. As a married couple, you may plan to spend some quality time together, reminiscing your memories and telling each other future intentions. Your long-distance relationship may be strengthened as a result of your partner’s commitment to the relationship.

If you are living in a joint family, then this month may not be in your favor. However, you may not feel like this for the whole month. This month may be quite moderate in terms of love and relationships. Your health is likely going to be fine this month. No major illnesses are foreseen. You may also focus more on your physical fitness and exercises. If you are suffering from blood pressure, then you must take proper medication and also keep a check on your temperament. You must beware of the appreciation from your contacts for your sudden achievements. You must cut off the nontrustworthy relationships. The deep connection between you and your partner may remain strong. If you are a job holder, then you must avoid any kind of possible arguments. Stubbornness does no good. Concentration and determination may enhance your professional environment. You might feel lethargic in this month. Thus, you might not be able to be as productive as per your expectations. However, do not get discouraged. As a doctor or consultant, you may expect productive output. People who are in administrative or management firms may expect to face some challenges at work. However, your constant efforts may gradually result positively. This month’s planetary movements suggest that you may expect some financial gains. You might receive financial support from your in-laws for your business purposes. You may expect some more financial benefits by mid-month. Students may continue to work hard for their academics and may be able to spend a good time studying.

Eat right to avoid dietary or intestinal problems.

It is advised to avoid drinking this month as much as possible as you may likely get liver problems.

Make sure to include more fiber in your food. Your energy levels may not be good as well. You might be mentally satisfied, happy, and self-confident. Keep patience and a positive attitude to score well in your studies. Engage in group studies. You may face some obstacles while studying. Those preparing for any competitive exams may get success. Students waiting for a long time to fly abroad may get positive news. Those interested in creative art may get excellent opportunities this month. It may be a good month for those in scientific research. You may express your feelings to your partner this month. Lunch and dinner planning with your loved one may happen more than once this month. A friendship may turn into a relationship. Your income may be good this month. Start saving money for future expenses. There may be some extra expenditures on luxuries and unnecessary things. Professionals who want to change their job profile or maybe shift to a new location can take the step this month. You may come out with fresh ideas and plans to rejuvenate the office atmosphere.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

Students applying for admission or preparing for a competitive exam may perform and score well. A lot of late-night parties may happen but concentrate on your studies as well. Researchers can expect significant discoveries. Students pursuing higher degrees may have thoughts to give up.

Health may need more attention. Those having acidity and high blood pressure should focus on their daily routine and lifestyle. Avoid spicy foods. Drive with extra care this month.

Stay hydrated and practice regular physical exercise and meditation to enjoy sound health. Your relationship with your family may be smooth and comfortable this month. You can expect love and understanding from the older adults in your family that may lead to joy and inner peace. The ratio of your earning and expenditure may almost be the same this month. Plan a budget for this month to avoid unnecessary spending. Overnight success is likely not going to happen, so avoid involving in shortcuts like the stock market. It is going to be a stressful month at work as you may lack the support from your colleagues, which may result in stress. An apt month for those planning to expand their business. Artists and singers may do great this month.

Healthwise, the month maybe not much promising. You must take care of your physical and mental health and follow regular exercise and a healthy diet to maintain your energy level. Take a break and relax this month. Get yourself checked to avoid old ailments from reappearing. Overall health and fitness may be fantastic. For engineering students, this month may be a crucial period. Students must seek the advice of their mentor as it may prove beneficial for them. For those planning to study abroad, this month may turn out to be lucky. Pay attention to gaining practical knowledge and involve in group studies. This month seems to offer mixed results for couples and singles. People in a relationship may plan for an outing or a trip. People who are into sales and marketing may get a handsome amount of incentive this month. You may have enormous opportunities to increase money at the moment but, be careful and don't take any over-ambitious steps this month. Careerwise, you need to be more cautious during the first and last days of the month. You may even face some problems in your job these days.

However, the rest of the months seems optimistic.

Business expansion and discussion may happen.

Realtors may not get good deals or profit. Marketing people may accomplish their targets. Not a good month for doctors.You may not be in a good position in your relationship this month. Your marriage may face some disturbances. Your friends may be the best supporters this month. Your communication with your subordinates as compared to your colleagues and seniors may be good. The performance and concentration of students may be good. Don't let parties disturb your pre-planned study schedule.

Students pursuing higher studies can expect a great result. Those seeking international admission may get positive outcomes.

Students preparing for competitive exams can expect a high score.

Health may need attention, especially if you have joint issues. Be careful while exercising and taking medications. Consult a specialist if you have a problem with your left eye. Check blood pressure levels regularly. You may get unexpected money in the starting days of the month. Expenditures on a short trip or pilgrimage can be expected.

You might spend a good sum of money on decorating your home or office. Give priority to saving money. Gains from real estate may be anticipated.

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

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Examining conflict of interest complaint against Virat Kohli: BCCI ethics officer NEW DELHI: BCCI ethics officer DK Jain on Sunday said he is examining a conflict of interest complaint against India captain Virat Kohli from Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association life member Sanjeev Gupta, who has levelled similar charges against other players in the past which were deemed "infructuous".

In his latest complaint, Gupta has alleged that Kohli is conflicted as he occupies two posts -- captain of the Indian team and director of a venture which has codirectors linked to a talent management company that has on board, several of his teammates.

Gupta has alleged that it is a violation of the BCCI constitution which bars one individual from holding multiple positions.

"I have received a complaint. I will examine it and then see if the case is

made out or not. If yes, then I have to afford an opportunity for him (Kohli) to respond," Jain told PTI. Gupta claims that Kohli, who is one of the directors at Cornerstone Venture Partners LLP and Virat Kohli Sports LLP, is conflicted as his co-directors -- Amit Arun Sajdeh (better known as Bunty Sajdeh in Indian cricket circle) and Binoy Bharat Khimji --, are also a part of the talent management

company Cornerstone Sport and Entertainment Private Limited.

Kohli does not have a role in Cornerstone Sport and Entertainment Private Limited.

The company manages the commercial interests of the India skipper and his many other teammates including K L Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav.

"In view of the above, Shri

Virat Kohli is occupying two posts at a time in blatant violation to BCCI Rule 38 (4) approved by the Supreme Court Of India. As such, he must relinquish his one post at once in compliance...," wrote Gupta in his complaint.

It is the first high profile complaint Jain has received since he got a one-year extension last month.

In the first year of his job, Jain had dealt with the conflict of interest complaints against Indian cricketing greats Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Kapil Dev. All of these came from Gupta and the iconic former players had to resign from one position before the complaints were rendered "infructuous" BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already stated that the conflict of interest norms as prescribed by the Lodha Committee are unrealistic.

Mercedes' Valtteri Bottas wins dramatic Austrian Grand Prix Valtteri Bottas stayed calm in a stormy race on Sunday to claim a measured victory for Mercedes as Formula One returned with a bang in a belated, dramatic and incident-strewn 2020 season-opening Austrian Grand Prix.

Seven months after the final race of 2019, the Finn, who had started from the 12th pole position of his career, led from start to finish to come home ahead on the road of team-mate six-time champion Lewis Hamilton.

The Briton, however, had been given a five-second penalty during the race and was demoted to fourth behind Charles Leclerc, who brought his Ferrari home second and Briton Lando Norris who claimed his maiden podium for McLaren.

Hamilton, hit with a late pre-race grid penalty that dropped him from second to fifth, had clashed with Red Bull's Alex Albon in the final laps, forcing him into a spin off track."

"There was definitely quite a bit of pressure on me there," said Bottas, speaking through a face mask afterwards.

"One Safety Car was ok, but I was like 'another one? And come on?' Lewis was quick, but I was able to control it."

Leclerc admitted the result was a surprise after Ferrari's dismal form in practice and qualifying.

"I did not expect this - it's a huge surprise, but a good one.

We did everything perfectly to finish second."

Norris said: "I'm speechless - there were a few points where I thought I had fudged it. I am so proud of the team for coming back from where we were a couple of years ago."

In a race of three Safety Car interventions, run behind closed doors at the Red Bull Ring, Ferrari-bound Carlos Sainz finished fifth in the second McLaren ahead of Sergio Perez of Racing Point.

Pierre Gasly was sixth for Alpha Tauri and Esteban Ocon eighth on his return to racing with Renault ahead of Antonio Giovinazzi of Alfa Romeo and Sebastian Vettel, the four-time champion in his final season at Ferrari, finishing 10th.

Before the race even started, there was drama when six of the 20 drivers opted against taking a knee to protest against racism.

Hamilton wore a Black Lives Matter t-shirt, while other drivers, who all lined up with him at the front of the grid, sported black tops saying

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

"End Racism".

Leclerc and Red Bull's Max Verstappen had confirmed a split among F1 drivers when they said they would not take a knee on the grid, but that they remained committed to fighting racism. Carlos Sainz of McLaren, Danil Kvyat of Alpha Tauri, Antonio Giovinazzi and Alfa Romeo team-mate Kimi Raikkonen also chose to stay on their feet.

On a very warm day in the Styrian Alps and following a late Red Bull protest that pushed Hamilton to fifth from second on the grid, Bottas was coolness personified. At lights out, he pulled clear to open a gap ahead of the battling duo of Verstappen and Norris behind him. Hamilton, fired by his penalty for ignoring yellow flags in Q3 on Saturday, was soon in a rhythm and by lap ten was up to third, 10 seconds behind Bottas and seven off Verstappen.

Within a lap, he was second when Verstappen slowed, his engine spluttering, gifting the champion a pass to pursue the

leader as the 'black arrows' took control.

A full 217 days after the last race, many teams struggled for reliability and it was clearly a battle of attrition led, almost inevitably, after their practice domination, by Mercedes until lap 25 when Kevin Magnussen went off at Turn Three in his Haas following brake problems. This brought out a Safety Car. On resumption, the luckless Vettel tangled with his future replacement at Ferrari, Sainz, at Turn Three. The fourtime champion spun after hitting the McLaren and fell to 15th while Sainz retained seventh. At the front, Bottas led, but Hamilton closed up.

On lap 52, Mercedes' meander was rudely interrupted when Haas' Romain Grosjean went off and George Russell stopped in his Williams and a second Safety Car was deployed.

With 17 laps to go, Mercedes stayed out as their rivals pitted, Albon taking softs for a late charge, but another crash when Raikkonen's Alfa Romeo lost its front right wheel at the final corner, brought a third Safety Car. With 10 laps left, Bottas led and Albon attacked Hamilton, but, as in Brazil last year, the pair clashed and Albon spun into the gravel, rejoining in 13th.

The stewards handed Hamilton a five-second penalty, followed by an identical penalty for Perez, for speeding in the pit lane.

EPL: Lacklustre Liverpool leave it late to see off Aston Villa

LIVERPOOL: Sadio Mane and Curtis Jones struck in the final 20 minutes to ensure Liverpool marked their first match at Anfield since being crowned Premier League champions with a 2-0 win over struggling Aston Villa on Sunday.

After a 4-0 humbling at the hands of Manchester City in midweek, Jurgen Klopp's men again failed to hit the heights that made them runaway leaders before a three-month hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic.

As it happened: Liverpool vs Aston Villa But Mane's sweet strike off the underside of the bar and Jones's deflected effort kept up a run of 24 consecutive league wins at Anfield for the Reds and left Villa still languishing in the bottom three.

Klopp has insisted he will not dish out appearances "like Christmas presents" in the final month of the campaign as Liverpool eye a record points tally in English top-flight history.

The German made just three alterations from an embarrassing night at the Etihad on Thursday as Roberto Firmino, Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum dropped out, but all three were needed in the second half after a disappointing first hour.

In front of an empty Anfield, Liverpool struggled to summon their best with the big prize already won and just re-writing the record books to play for.

Villa, by contrast, are still desperate for points in their battle to beat the drop and Dean Smith's men were left to rue not taking their chances on the counter-attack early in the second half as their winless streak stretched to 10 games.

Pepe Reina was recalled in the Villa goal on his return to Anfield where he spent nine years as a Liverpool player.

However, the Spaniard barely had a save of note to make before half-time as Liverpool struggled to break Villa down.

Indeed, it was Alisson Becker who was the busier goalkeeper as the Brazilian was forced to parry shots from Douglas Luiz, Jack Grealish and Anwar El Ghazi.

Klopp was forced into introducing Henderson, Wijnaldum and Firmino to try and summon a response from his side in the final half hour.

The triple substitution quickly made a difference when Naby Keita picked out Mane to sweep home his 20th goal of the season.

Reina was finally forced into a fine save as he dived to his left to deny Firmino his first goal at Anfield this season.

Another substitute made the game safe a minute from time as 19-year-old Jones saw his effort deflect past the helpless Reina before Alisson produced another stunning save at the other end to deny Grealish a consolation.

Rijiju leads wishes for Sindhu as badminton champ turns 25

NEW DELHI: Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju was among those who wished badminton world champion PV Sindhu on her birthday. Sindhu turned 25 on Sunday.

"Birthday greetings to India's first World Badminton

Champion and Olympic Medalist @Pvsindhu1. I wish her a good health, long life and happiness forever. Keep shining and making India proud!" said Rijiju in a tweet.

Sindhu later replied: "Thanks a lot sir."

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 45

Madhuri Dixit pays emotional tribute to Saroj Khan on Guru Purnima: ‘I still can’t believe master ji is no more’ Madhuri Dixit penned an emotional note for Saroj Khan on Guru Purnima and said that her death was a ‘deeply personal’ loss.

The news of veteran choreographer Saroj Khan’s death was ‘devastating’ for actor Madhuri Dixit, who collaborated with her for a number of iconic songs including Ek Do Teen, Dhak Dhak Karne Laga, Tamma Tamma Loge and Dola Re Dola. Madhuri paid an emotional tribute to Saroj on the occasion of Guru

Purnima.

Sharing a picture of them hugging, Madhuri wrote, “I still can’t believe master ji is no more. Losing a friend, philosopher & guide like her is devastating. It was difficult for me to put down my grief in words. I had spoken to her daughter when she was in the hospital & she told me that Saroj ji would be fine.

Two days later, she was gone.”

“The Guru-shishya bond that we shared, the assurance that she would be my mother on the sets, I’ll miss

Multiplexes at all time low: Is it finally time to open cinemas now?

While Multiplex Association of India (MAI) has expressed disappointment over cinemas not getting a goahead in the Unlock 2.0 phase, the film industry is divided over the decision to reopen movie theatres yet.

Even as the country enters Unlock 2.0, cinemas continue to remain shut according to the central government guidelines much to the disappointment of Multiplex Association of India (MAI), who on Thursday said in a statement that it was “demotivating and disheartening”. They also made an appeal to at least allow operation of cinema houses in noncontainment zones in the country.

Shibasish Sarkar, the CEO of Reliance Entertainment says, “As part of the whole ecosystem, we have the similar thought as theirs.

Yes I agree that government is taking precautions, but if you’re opening up salons and malls, then why not theatres? At least in cinemas, everything is in a very controlled environment, so if there’s a diktat given to the owners that you can open with only so many people and following the do’s and don’ts, it’s pretty easy to maintain safety.”

MAI also stressed that an early decision to allow cinemas to open up will only help the mobilisation of resources in the film industry’s ecosystem and would lead to gradual resurrection.

Extending his full support to the association, film exhibitor Akshaye Rathi says that the phase we’re in right now is such that opening or shutting enterprises isn’t going to stop the virus.

“It’s not that cinemas

are going to be the reason behind the spread of the virus.The theatres have been shut for over 100 days, but the spread has not been contained or controlled.

So, to let enterprises keep bleeding and give rise to more unemployment is certainly not a good move,” he opines.

According to MAI, multiplex industry is the backbone of Indian film industry and employs more than two lakh people and accounts to 60% of revenues of film business.

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh feels that it’s still a hugely debatable issue if theatres should reopen.

“The government knows best, but yes, there are a lot of livelihoods at stake, people are out of work because theatres aren’t functioning. The cost of running a multiplex or theatre is too high, so if not everywhere, at least at the safer zones should look at opening.”

However, film producer Anand Pandit feels that such decisions should be left to the government to take and there is no point jumping the gun given the spike in the number of

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020

Smitten by her, I had told her, ‘Saroji ji, agar aap shakkar hoti na, I would add you in my cup of tea & drink it.’ She would laugh heartily at this.

I’ll miss that playful laughter,” she said.

“The first time I met her was while shooting for Maine Rab Se from Karma.

Saroj ji asked me so many questions, one being ‘Where did you learn to dance?’

Unfortunately, our sequence was removed from the song.

I’ll miss her many questions,” she added.

everything. Today on the occasion of Guru Purnima, I pay my tribute to her,” she added.

Madhuri said that she misses Saroj’s hearty laugh.

She revealed that the very first song they shot together was for the 1986 film Karma.

Unfortunately, it was not retained in the final cut of the film.

“Nobody can make women look so beautiful, desirable & sensuous on-screen like her. She made everything look like poetry in motion.

cases, especially in metros like Delhi and Mumbai.

“We’ve to be reasonable and not doubt the government.

Health and safety are the most important things right now, entertainment comes a little later. I’m sure as soon as the government thinks that it’s safe, they’ll open the cinemas. They understand that people need to divert their mind away from the pandemic, and cinema is the only medium to do so,” explains Pandit.

Meanwhile, industry experts also feel that it’s time for the government to provide some sort of compensation to the film industry, which is facing financial stress.

Citing the example of the New Zealand government, Atul Mohan says how they’ve given USD 48 million (Rs 360 crore approx) to their country’s film industry to help them revive and hopes “something similar” can be done here, too.

Rathi adds in agreement, “We’ll need grants and subsidies if you want us to remain shut for the next couple of months. If not, then give us the opportunity to earn our living.”

Sushant Singh Rajput's sister Shweta shares an inspiring handwritten note by the late actor; see picture here Actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s death has been a huge loss in Bollywood.

Moreover, the actor’s friends, family and fans are still having a hard time accepting the shocking news.

On this note, Sushant’s USbased sister, Shweta Singh Kriti took to Instagram to share yet another emotional note, but this time it was handwritten by the late actor itself.

Earlier, Shweta was spotted sharing several emotional posts for the late star. Recently, she also shared a throwback picture of the ‘Kedarnath’ actor with Shweta’s daughter wrote, “Sweethearts, Freyju with her Mamu.”

In her final goodbye for the brother, Sushant, Shweta penned down a long post saying, “Mera baby, mera Babu Bachcha is not physically present with us anymore and it is ok… I know u were in a lot of pain and I know u were a fighter and u were bravely fighting it. Sorry

mera Sona… sorry for all the pain u had to go through… if I could I would hav taken all ur pain and given all my happiness to u. You twinkling eyes taught the world how to dream, ur innocent smile revealed the true purity of ur heart. You will always be loved mera Baby and so so much more…. Whereever ur mera baby stay happy…. stay fulfilled and know that everyone loved, loves u and will always love you unconditionally.”

Reportedly, Shweta couldn’t attend the last rites of Sushant Singh Rajput as she was not in the country.

However, taking the first available flight to India, she is currently with her family.

Happy Birthday Ranveer Singh: Fans pour in wishes for the actor on social media Ranveer Singh has come a long way in Bollywood. The actor marked his debut in 'Band Baaja Baaraat' in 2010.

With his stellar performances in various films, the actor has made a place for himself in everyone's hearts. Well, he is not just known for his acting skills but also the quirky fashion sense and energetic persona! The actor also got the title of 'live-wire of Bollywood'.

Now, as he turned a year older, fans of the actor took over social media to wish him on his 35th birthday.

From movie stills, Instagram

pictures to videos, fans left no stones unturned to make his day special. They

also made #HappyBirthday RanveerSingh trend on Twitter.

Guru Purnima: Ayushmann Khurrana pays tribute to Kishore Kumar "You have been my biggest inspiration," said actor Ayushmann Khurrana as he paid tribute to late playback singer Kishore Kumar on the occasion of Guru Purnima.

Khurrana took to Twitter on Sunday and wrote that it is the accomplished singer, Kumar's songs, that have always been his "companion in every season and for every reason."

"You are the reason I try to multi-task with my entire craft - not just acting, but also singing and writing. I aspire to be better at all this with every passing day," the 'Bala' actor tweeted.

The 35-year-old actor

dubbed the late legendry singer as his "guru," and wrote: "Kishore Kumar you are and always been an evergreen legend."

The 'Ek Ladki Bhigi Bhagi Si' crooner, who was born on August 4, 1929, was a man with multiple talents. Other than being the most accomplished singer of his time, he was also a screenwriter, actor, composer, director, and producer.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Ayushmann will soon be teaming up with Anubhav Sinha once again for a project which is reported to be titled as 'Anek'.

Randeep Hooda has been updating fans about his day-to-day activities on social media. On Sunday, the actor took to Instagram to share pictures from

Arshad Warsi wants his fans to buy his painting so that he can pay the electricity bill Many people including popular celebrities have complained about the hike in electricity bills. The internet is loaded with hilarious memes over hiked electricity bills.

Recently, Bollywood actor Arshad Warsi took to his Twitter handle to react to the hiked electricity bill and it will leave you in splits. The actor tweeted that Rs. 1.03 lacs debited from his account for electricity this month and now to cover the expense he is planning to sell his painting

and save his kidneys for the next bill. He tweeted, “People please buy my paintings, I need to pay my Adani electric bill, kidneys am keeping for the next bill.”

On the work front, Arshad was last seen in Anees Bazmee's 'Pagalpanti' along with Anil Kapoor, John Abraham, Ileana D'Cruz and Urvashi Rautela. He has been a part of many popular Bollywood movies like 'Munna Bhai MBBS', 'Golmaal', 'Jolly LLB', 'Ishqiya' and many more.

Ram Gopal Varma says case filed against him for the film Murder is based on uninformed speculations On June 21, on the ocassion of Father's Day, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma had announced his next film titled Murder. The film is based on a caste killing that took place in 2018 in Telangana's Miryalaguda. Pranay Kumar was murdered by his wife Amrutha's father Maruti Tao and uncle Shravan Kumar.

However, now after nearly two weeks of the announcement the filmmaker has landed in legal trouble. Pranav's family has approached the court stating that Ram Gopal Varma's film Murder could affect Pranay's murder. In response to Pranay's father Balaswamy's petition, the Nalgonda Special SC/ST court has ordered Miryalaguda police to file a case against the filmmaker.

Following this, Ram Gopal Varma took to twitter and in

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a series of tweets defended himself. Sharing the poster of the film, he wrote, "With

Photos: Randeep Hooda helps cleaning the Versova beach following social distancing amid lockdown!

regard to media speculations on the case filed on my film MURDER ,I once again want

to reiterate that my film is based and inspired from a true incident and it is not the truth ..Also there’s no mention of anyone’s caste in the film."

"With regard to the case filed on the basis of uninformed speculations,our advocates will give an appropriate reply as required by law," he further wrote.

"I specifically mentioned that I have no intention to demean or degrade anyone and my film is just a creative work based on a subject which is in the public domain ..But as a citizen who respects the law i too will proceed legally to protect my fundamental rights," he added.

Back when Ram Gopal Varma had announced the film, he was criticised for glorifying caste murder as 'father's love'.

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his beach clean drive. He followed social distancing and also wore a mask as a precaution for COVID-19 while helping the cleaning Versova beach.

Sonu Sood looks dapper in this classic black and white picture; Sonal Chauhan captions, 'Godfather

Sonu Sood has been rocking the headlines for his work of sending migrant workers back to their homes by arranging transport facilities for them. The actor who is quite active on social media has been sharing pictures and videos of how

he is spending time during the lockdown.

On Sunday, the actor took to Instagram to share a black and white picture from a photoshoot. He looked dapper in all-suited avatar while sitting on a chair. Sonu captioned the post with a black spade!

Sushmita Sen sends out Guru Purnima wishes with THIS lovely family photo

Sushmita Sen is an avid social media user.

The actress is known for her workout posts, motivational messages and cute pictures of her

daughter Renee and Alisah. On the special occasion of Guru Purnima, she took to her Instagram handle to share a family portrait.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2020 — 47

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