Bit May 15

Indian Times

Brisbane

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 12, Number 8 Saturday, May 9, 2015

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

Further earthquake jolts Nepal as death toll crosses 7,500

• 143 aftershocks of magnitude greater than 4.0 on Richter Scale have occurred after the April 25 quake," Adhikari said. PTI

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Letters to the Editor THE Indian Times of April 11, 2015 has quoted information from the Courier Mail, which was factually incorrect. As the former Chairman of the Board for the period the articles refer to, I am clarifying the issues below: The articles have referred to “Phantom debts and secret payments to the former Chairman of the Board …” These are two separate issues. This statement however insinuates that the two matters are related. This is a mischievous and untruthful insinuation.

The “phantom debt” the article is referring to, was an amount of $650,000 that was added to the loan owing by the Islamic College of Brisbane (ICB) to Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) in late 2014. I left the ICB Board in September 2013 and had no further involvement in any of its decisions after that time. I had nothing to do with this debt neither had I any knowledge of it until it became public knowledge early 2015.

The article also states that secret payments were made to me as Chairman of the ICB Board and quotes an audit report by Suleman Sabdia. There was nothing secret about the payments, nor were they in contravention of the Constitution of the ICB. (In addition, these payments had nothing to do with the AFIC debt mentioned above).

In 2009, the Treasurer of AFIC, had appointed me as Project Manager for various building projects (listed below). Since this payment was not made by ICB, I did not consider it necessary to advise the ICB Board about this arrangement. However in late 2012, when we were made aware that the payment was being reimbursed from ICB by AFIC, the matter was raised in

Inside

the ICB Board meeting, and the Board after a full deliberation, resolved to ratify all previous payments and also approve any future payments. As regards the payments of $105,356 made to me (for the Projects listed below), here are the facts: Payments (1) 2010 $ 12,000 2011 $ 18,500 2012 $ 24,000 2013 $ 18,000 Total $ 72,500 Reimbursements (2) Fuel/Travelling (20110-13) $ 5,300 Others (see note below) $ 27,556 Total $105,356 The claims for the Payments (1) above were submitted by me to the Treasurer after which AFIC then made the payment to me.

The ‘Others’ total of $27,556 [Reimbursements (2) above], represented purchase of equipment for the kitchen/canteen, building materials, repairs and maintenance, etc. These payments were made with my personal credit card. This amount was reimbursed to me by AFIC on submission of receipts.

• Health & Well Being................33-31 • Astrology...........................................32 • Real Estate................................33-35 • Business Directory.......................36-37 • Classifieds..........................................37 • What’s On................................38-43 • Bollywood & Entertainment...44-45 • Sport..........................................46-47 2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

The article also states that “The school Board was so concerned about its finances that it ordered its own separate audit … …”

This statement is far from the truth.

Firstly there was no concern about ICB’s finances by the Board as a whole. I understand that the audit was politically motivated and initiated by a couple of Board members in order to discredit me.

The auditor’s assertion that the ICB Constitution does not provide for approval of any previous payments is totally incorrect. There is nothing in the ICB Constitution that precludes the Board from ratifying any previous payments. In fact it is common practice for payments to be made and approved by the Board after the event.

It must be noted that S. Sabdia’s audit report was not accepted by the Board as originally presented as it was not factually correct. The ICB Board Meeting of 17/11/2014 confirmed that there was no misuse of my position or financial mismanagement. This was also confirmed by the President of AFIC, Hafiz Kassem, in

his report to the Federal Council of AFIC at its meeting on 2/11/2014.

During my term as Chairman of ICB between February 2009 and September 2013, under my supervision the College saw major developments with the completion of the following Projects: • Multi-Purpose Hall; • New Primary School Building; • Library; • Undercover Sports Facility; • Undercover Walkways; • Internal/External Roadwork; and • Bus Shelters.

The payment of $72,500 for the above projects covered the period of four years (2010-2013), an average of $18,000 per year for 4-6 days’ work per week, and for being called to ICB at odd hours when contractors needed to discuss anything. Had ICB chosen to engage an external Project Manager for the above projects it would have cost them about $75,000 - $100,000 annually instead of $18,000 paid to me.

Mohammed Yusuf Former Chairman of the ICB

A D ivi sio n of Qld Multi cultural Time s

Trudi Tarres

• Local News.................................5-20 • Who, What, Where, When...22 & 24

gin worldwide and are instrumental in observing the Indian arrival day in many countries such Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad, Mauritius etc. The format of the event is commemorative in nature; I am looking forward to welcoming you all at this event.

I was privileged to attend the opening ceremony of Shree Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) in South Maclean. The temple has been painstakingly renovated and the VIP official ceremony was held on 1st May. Despite the heavy downpour, a lot VIPs including the Governor of Queensland the newly arrived Indian High Commissioner attended. The temple itself is magnificent; I would highly recommend that you visit it in the near future.

My dear Friend Dr Cuong Bui organised the Vietnamese day of remembrance and again I was honoured to have been asked to lay a wreath in the memory of the brave soldiers. The Vietnamese community have secured a remembrance park at the corner of Rosemary Street in Inala.

On Anzac Day I marched with the Indian community, the response we received from our Australian brothers and sisters was amazing, I must thank Surendra Prasad for arranging this march, a job well done.

I am very impressed with our new High Commissioner HE Navdeep Suri, his off the cuff speech at the opening ceremony of Shree Selva Vinayakar Koyil was the best, and it was unscripted and came from the heart. The next time we met him at lunch, he spoke so well and emphasised that we may have come from different regions but we must acknowledge that first and foremost we are Indians. He is looking forward to working with the community and keen on forging relationships with community leaders.

There are many more topics to talk about but I must pen off now, please do read about all of the above mention in other sections of our newspaper.

Until next Month Happy Reading Umesh Chandra

Indian Times

ADVERTISING: Trudi Tarres EDITOR:

WELCOME to May issue, Queensland floods have again left five people dead, the heavy downpour on Friday 1st May caused havoc in Brisbane. People were stranded for hours, RACQ and emergency personnel were kept busy throughout the night and through the weekend.

Many fetes and festivals had to be cancelled due to the weather. Now if you put this in the perspective and imagine what the residents of Nepal would have had to go through. Their problem has been made worse due to the weather. Nepalese authorities say that they have not received a single cent into their Government account yet, though Millions of dollars have been pledged in support. They have received goods and food supplies. The rough terrain makes it very hard to deliver the services that they desperately need.

A warning has been put in place by Office of Fair Trading, in relation to a scam relating to the many opportunists taking advantage of this disaster to channel funds to their personal bank accounts. It is advised that caution be exercised when transferring funds to assist with the disaster relief.

Please verify that the account details provided is a legitimate one and from a credible association or NGO. The second concern is that some larger credible aid agencies have very high administration fees. The question is how much of the collected funds actually reached the poor victims?

GOPIO International has donated $10,000 via Prime Ministers relief funds. India being the immediate neighbour came to the assistance first and has made a significant contribution towards the relief activities.

The second thing that I would like to talk about is Girmit Diwas being organised by GOPIO Queensland on 14th May 2015 at BEMAC (Queensland Multicultural Centre), 102 Main Street Kangaroo Point.

This is the second year that the event is being organised by GOPIO in memory of the first Indians to arrive in Fiji.

GOPIO represents all people of Indian ori-

Brisbane

Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra

• Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4

From the Publisher

JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS Ram Jattan (UK) Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) ML. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi Imam Muhammad Aslam Sundar Gopal Das Yadavendra Das Pastor Joseph Dass Haji Abdul Rahman Deen Janeth Deen Jitendra Deo Mehraban Farahmand (Baha’i International)

Ajit K Shahi (Immigration Matters) Jatinder Kaur Vinaya Natarajan (Inspire - Prem Rawat) Peter Lane Rai Parth Raval Shobhana Shet (Spiritual Science Research Foundation) Gurjeet Singh Matt Young (Sport) Suite 5, 2281 Sandgate Road Boondall Qld 4034 TELEPHONE: (07) 3865 6533 FACSIMILE:(07) 3865 5864 E-MAIL: prod@indiantimes.com.au Subscriptions: 12 months $40.00 (incl GST) 6 months $24.00 (incl GST)

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

All correspondence should be addressed to: Brisbane Indian Times, PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018.

PH: (07) 3865 6533 Fax: 3865 5864 prod@indiantimes.com.au

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AY W Y C A LEG MMUNITY FREE CO FUN DAY

Celebrate the the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Coot-tha Gardens Mt Coot-t ha expansion Come and explore the four new hectares of gardens delivered by Brisbane City Council as part of the Legacy Way tunnel project. Enjoy a free community fun day with market stalls, live music, cooking demonstrations and a bunch of activities for kids including live appearances by dirtgirl.

Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha Sunday 17 May

9am-2pm

Free buses will be available to and from the event throughout the day from Roma Street, King George Square, T Toowong, oowong, Indooroopilly and Darra.

See website for details. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/legacyway or call (07) 3403 8888 88 Š 2009 dirtgirlworld productions pty ltd and DECODE/Dirtgirl Pr Decode Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. www.dirtgirlworld.com

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Legacy Way is a Brisbane City Council initiative.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 3

Migration Updates....

Legislative corrections to English requirements

CORRECTIONS – Subclasses 485 and 476 – English language tests and scores.

Legislative Instrument - IMMI 15/062 [F2015L00564] - Migration Regulations 1994 - Specification of English Language Tests, Scores and Passports 2015 specifies the English language requirements and the tests and the minimum scores required to achieve English language proficiency.

IELTS – overall 6 (minimum 5 in each component) - single sitting / TOEFL iBT – overall 64 (minimum 4 in Listening & reading, minimum 14 in speaking and writing) single sitting / PTE Academic – overall 50 (minimum 36 in each component) – single sitting / CAE - overall 169 (minimum 154 in each component) – single sitting – test taken on or after 1 January 2015 / OET B in each component The above tests must be undertaken for MR 476.13 (a)(ii) and MR 485.212(a)(ii) within the three years before the day on which the application was made.

CORRECTION – Subclass 457 – English language requirements.

Legislative Instrument - IMMI 15/028 [F2015L00563] - Migration Regulations 1994 - Specification of Tests, Scores, Period, Level of Salary and Exemptions to the English Language Requirement for Subclass 457 (Temporary Work (Skilled)) Visas 2015 specifies the test,

scores, period, level of salary and other exemptions to the English language requirement for Subclass 457 (Temporary Work (Skilled)) (Subclass 457) visa applicants.

IELTS – overall 5 (minimum 4.5 in each component) - single sitting / TOEFL iBT – overall 36 (minimum 3 in listening & reading, minimum 12 in speaking and writing) single sitting / PTE Academic – overall 36 (minimum 30 in each component) – single sitting / CAE - overall 154 (minimum 147 in each component) – single sitting – test taken on or after 1 January 2015 / OET B in each component Tests must have been undertaken within the three years: - from the date of the visa application for MR 457.223(4)(eb) - from the date of nomination for 272(10)(g)(iv) The Instrument also specifies level of salary and other exemptions to the English language requirement for Subclass 457 (Temporary Work (Skilled)) (Subclass 457) visa applicants.This legislative instrument commenced on 18 April 2015.

This article is intended to provide general information on migration issues and does not constitute migration advice, and no responsibility is accepted by Ajit K Shahi or Naam Migration Australia for the accuracy of material appearing in Brisbane Indian Times. Ajit K Shahi MARN: 1174452

BIT JUNE 2015 DEADLINES

ADVERT BOOKING 29 May Editorial / Photo Submissions 1 June 2015 Email prod@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3865 6533

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 5

Further earthquake jolts Nepal as death toll crosses 7,500 From page 1 KATHMANDU, May 5, 2015: A fresh tremor of magnitude 4.0 on Tuesday jolted the quake-hit Nepal, where the death toll from the April 25 deadly temblor has risen to over 7,500.

The feeble tremor at "6:39 am, was epicentred on the border of Dhading and Nuwakot districts," National Seismological Centre chief Lok Bijaya Adhikari said.

The two districts which are the part of Nepal's Bagmati Zone have suffered extensively in the April 25 earthquake which left a trail of death and destruction.

Several aftershocks have followed since the 7.9-magnitude quake, which besides claiming an overwhelming number of human lives from the remote Sindhupalchowk district to the heart of the capital in Kathmandu, have turned people anxious and paranoid.

"143 aftershocks of magnitude greater than 4.0 on Richter Scale have occurred after the April 25 quake," Adhikari said.

"Today (5 May), we also did survey of some of the eastern parts of the country like Sindhuli and Udayapur districts and assessed the damage there and relief requirements further thereof," he added.

According to a report by the UN's humanitarian agency OCHA (Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), "as on May 4, the earthquake has destroyed 1,91,058 homes and damaged 1,75,162 homes."

Two tremors had also rocked parts of Nepal on May 2, triggering landslides.

Meanwhile, the death toll from the April 25 temblor rose to 7,557 while the number of injured has reached 14,536.

The 1934 quake had claimed several thousands of lives on both sides of the Himalayas, besides destroying priceless cultural and architectural heritage of both Nepal and India.

PTI

ANZAC Centenary - Indian community march in solidarity

By Umesh Chandra Between 2014 and 2018 Australia will commemorate the Anzac Centenary, marking 100 years since our nation’s involvement in the First World War. The Anzac Centenary is a milestone of special significance to all Australians. The First World War helped define us as people and as a nation.

During the Anzac Centenary we will remember not only the original ANZACs who served at Gallipoli and the Western Front, but commemorate more than a century of service by Australian servicemen and women.

The Anzac Centenary Program encompasses all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which Australians have been

involved.

The Program aims to give all Australians the opportunity to honour the service and sacrifice of all those who have worn our nation’s uniform, including the more than 102,000 who have made the supreme sacrifice.

It also aims to encourage all Australians to reflect upon and learn more about Australia’s military history, its costs and its impacts on our nation.

In Brisbane many parades were organised, of course, we had the dawn service at ANZAC square in Brisbane, and later the main ANZAC parade in the city.

I was fortunate enough to take part in the parade held in Sunnybank; there is a very strong and somewhat forgotten history of the Indian soldiers involved in Gallipoli as part of the ANZAC operation.

Various people of Indian Origin have been taking part in the marches previously, but this year being the centenary, Indian community got together to March in solidarity. The participation was arranged by Surendra Prasad (OAM). Various Indian organisations, such as FICQ (Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland) GOPIO Qld and GOPIO International (Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin), Indian programming Group of Radio 4EB, Sanatan Dharam, Board

members of Radio 4EB, Fiji Seniors Association, Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple, Brisbane Sikh community, Brisbane Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio, The Punjab, our youngsters and others took part in the march.

The Indian group received loud cheers and applause throughout the march, this was very moving and the touched the hearts of all who took part in the march, the sense of belonging and appreciation expressed by the bystanders was overwhelming. We all felt so proud and honoured by the kind gesture in the true Australian Spirit.

A record number of people turned out for the parade, which finished at the Sub Branch of Sunnybank RSL for the official speeches and formalities. It is planned that the Indian community will take part in the main parade in the city from next year.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 7

His Excellency Navdeep Suri Indian High Commissioner to Australia in Brisbane HIS Excellency Navdeep Suri has hit the ground running; within weeks of arriving in Australia he has visited Brisbane.

On May 1st he attended the official opening of Shree Selva Vinayakar Koyil in South Maclean. He was one of the speakers there and he spoke very well, he praise Australian Government and Australian people for their kind consideration in allowing all regions to flourish in this multicultural society.

He said he will send a strong message back home of what he feels about Australia, he said what he had seen was completely opposite to what negative media had portrayed. He thanked the temple committee for having done a wonderful job of the renovation.

On Saturday 3rd May His Excellency met representatives of Indian community over lunch at Mehfil Indian Restaurant in Mt Gravatt. The lunch was organised by FICQ and attended by members of FICQ, GOPIO and AIBC. HE Navdeep Suri emphasised the importance of being Indians first and foremost, he said it is good that we have our regional association but the coming together of all in unity is where our power will be. Each and everyone present had an opportunity to introduce themselves.

HE Navdeep Suri discussed many topics

including the proposed Indian Festival, World Yoga Day and the implications of streamline visa processing. Allegedly there have been some reported cases of misuse

Radio 4EB completes stage one of redevelopment A NEW under cover car park has been constructed to allow for 20 car park spaces at a cost of almost $200,000. The new Car park is on the BEMAC end of the property, convenors broadcasters and board members will have access to the new car park via a security controlled gate.

This is stage one of the development of the whole of the 4EB premises. The next stage will be the expansion of the building to increase the number of studios for broadcast. The project so far has been totally self funded with a large amount of funds being raised during the Annual Radiothon Appeal which raised more than $60,000.

The opening occurred on the 20th of April with more than 50 different language and cultural groups involved at 4EB on the night to welcome the Lord Mayor - Graham Quirk officially cut the ribbon to the

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

Professor Prasad Yarlagadda welcomed everyone and introduced HE Navdeep Suri

to all. HE Excellency brings with him a wealth of experience having served a number of countries including South Africa and Egypt.

Miss and Mrs Punjaban Queensland 2015 crowned

entrance to the cart park signifying the completion of stage one of the 4EB building project. Fundraising will continue for the project as we start extending the building in the coming months.

GOPIO Queensland to commemorate Girmit Remembrance Day on 14th May GOPIO Qld will be holding the second commemorative Girmit Diwas on 14th May at BEMAC (Queensland Multicultural Centre) 102 Main Street Kangaroo point. The function is commemorative by nature to pay respect to the Girmitiyas. The function will include speeches and audio video presentation; everyone will be given an opportunity to lay wreaths or flowers in remembrance. The function will begin at 6:30pm, it is a free event and refreshments will be served.

Below is an edited article by Rajendra Prasad on Girmit: How the indenture system in Fiji came to be known as ‘Girmit’ has an interesting connotation. The recruits were illiterate and they were told that they had to sign an ‘agreement’. Unable to pronounce the word ‘agreement’, they called it ‘Girmit’ and they came to be called ‘Girmitiyas’. This name is unique to Fiji. Interestingly, the word ‘Girmit’ and ‘Girmitiyas’ were forbidden in day to day usage until the 1970s. It hurt the feelings of the Girmitiyas, as it brought to memory the images of a painful period in their lives.

Observance of May 14, every year as ‘Girmit Remembrance Day’ is one way to reconnect our people and to pass on the legacy of Girmit to successive generations.

and manipulation of the system.

History is to a community what root is to a tree. It cannot be separated and no one can run away from it. Even the descendants of the slaves acknowledge their past and it has helped them to shape their lives from the mire of human misery. Early Indo-Fijian history is a jewel that must be viewed in true light. It represents struggle, suffering and sacrifice. These elements remain the core values of our community even today.

The first sail ship, Leonidas, arrived in Fiji with a cargo of 479 Girmitiyas. Eighty-six other ships followed and landed 60,553 recruits in Fiji. Indenture system (Girmit) succeeded the system of slavery, which was abolished in 1834. The British colonies suffered acute shortage of labour and they began recruiting Indians, under the indenture system, to replace the slaves. It was slavery by another name.

Under the indenture system, the recruits had to enter a contractual agreement, which

BRISBANE: On April 19th 2015 the 2015 Miss and Mrs Punjaban contest was held at Cavendish Road State High School. The event was presented by Sanjhi Awaj Radio.

The contestants were judged on various rounds, which included quiz and talent rounds. The flavour of Punjab was displayed and all the contestants were very talented making the competition quite challenging.

The panel of judges were: Shama Bhangu, Gian Kaur, Rashpal Hayer, Sunita Sheti, Gaganjot Arora. Miss and Mrs Punjaban 2015 was directored by Shama Bhangu.

The anchor for the program was Preet

Siyan, who is quite popular, he also hosts the Punjabi radio show “Mehek Punjab Di” on Australian Indian Radio (AIR).

The Queensland heat was organised by former (2014) Mrs Punjaban Amanpreet Mann Khaira. Arshdeep Gill was crowned Miss Punjaban 2015 and Preet Kawal Sandhu was crowned Mrs Punjaban 2015

by Amanpreet Mann Khaira.

The program was well organised and attendance was good, it is aimed at bringing Punjabi tradition and culture to the forefront as well as empowering women power by bringing them on such a platform.

required them to work in the colonies for five years. The wages for a man was one shilling (approximately 12 cents) per day and for a woman was nine pence (approximately 9 cents) per day. They worked for 12 hours per day under slave-like conditions. One writer, Hugh Tinker, claimed that indenture system was slavery by another name and entitled his book, A New System of Slavery. The living and working conditions were horrific and the white masters were ruthless towards their servile subjects.

Physical violence like whip was extensively used and both men and women suffered the whips and other forms of gruesome violence from the white planters.

Many lives were lost through suicide, sickness and suffering but the tenacity of the warriors of toil ensured the emergence of a distinct Indo-Fijian community with its own language, culture and customs. Indo-Fijians

have made their mark on the world stage as a community that is hardworking, law-abiding and progressive. No matter where they live, their spirit to strive for success is inherent in their constitution – a constitution that is an inheritance from our Girmitiya forbears.

Girmit Remembrance Day – May 14, is a day of commemoration when the IndoFijian community comes together to pay their respects to the pioneer generation – the Girmitiyas and passing on their legacy to successive generations. Our history was deliberately erased by those who exploited and violated our community. It is time for us to reconnect, reclaim and restore it to our children and ensure that they embrace their history and retain their sense of gratitude to those who gave birth to our unique community.

Rajendra Prasad

www.indiantimes.com.au

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Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 9

Ujwal Poudel – A fighter like none other Written by – Prerna Pahwa AT the age of 21, Ujwal Poudel is going through hell which is tough for anyone to imagine.

A chain of unexpected events began to unravel in January 2015, changing the course of this young man’s life in unimaginable way.

A Life-Changing Diagnosis Ujwal came from Nepal to Brisbane a year ago with high hopes of a bright future, a dream to achieve something in his life and support his middle class family just like any other student coming to Australia. He was studying at QIBT, diploma in accounting for a year, and then he went and enrolled in Bachelors of Accounting at Holmes College and had a part time job in Nando’s. It wasn’t long before he was beginning to settle down here while sharing a house with his friends. At the end of January, he felt fatigued and restless for no reason. He also noticed darkened, red rashes over his hands and legs.

One day he was about to go College in the morning but didn’t wake up till late. That afternoon GP ran some tests while Ujwal went back to home. He was then stung by a call telling him to go to the emergency ward immediately.

He went to the emergency ward of PA Hospital, Greenslopes and was diagnosed with a life threatening disease that is Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) a blood cancer that affects blood and the bone marrow of a human body which us caused because of over production of immature white blood cells, these make the bone marrow crowded and constraints the bone marrow to produce normal blood cells.

He was in a state of shock and couldn’t accept the fact that he has just been diagnosed with cancer. He never thought that anything bad could happen to him, he is so young and healthy, he is just 21.

All his dreams shattered and he didn’t know how to convey this bad news to his parents who are thousands of miles away. Initially, he just shared this news with his 18 year old sister, a nursing student at Nepal. He then got in touch with Leukaemia foundation to get more information about AML. Fight for Life He has been admitted at PA hospital since 4th February, 2015. He started going through brutal chemotherapy, initially his body wasn’t responding well and he ended up at ICU. He can see his body getting weaker day by day, there is very less time that he feel fresh, it’s mostly sleeping with all those heavy doses of medication. He has been out of the hospital only twice for a small day out as his immune system is very low and creates a high risk of Infection. There were so many side effects like nausea, fever, vomiting and joint pains which are trying to break him down, but he is facing all the challenges like a fighter.

He has got really strong will power to fight, high hopes from the doctors, the medical science and the almighty above. He is currently going through his third cycle of chemotherapy. Doctor recommends him going for Bone Marrow Transplant as soon as he finishes his third cycle of chemotherapy.

Ujwal’s parents in Nepal are worried for his health day and night. Unfortunately, his parents couldn’t come as his father was suffering with TB from last 6 months and wouldn’t be possible for him medically to travel to Brisbane. Ujwal has two siblings being the eldest brother he has an 18 year old sister and a 14 year old brother. The younger sister managed to get her visiting visa for Brisbane and is here supporting and taking care of her brother, she has being very head strong and maintains a communication bridge between her family back home and her brother. She is studying nursing and was in her last year of her degree but chose the option of deferring her college. When asked how they were managing Anu said, “It does get difficult a lot of times but I have to be mentally and emotionally strong

because it’s a tough battle but we have to be strong in it”

help Ujwal are Queensland Telugu Association Australia, Varnam Qld, Brisbane Sikh Temple & the committee at Staying away from family when you Eight Miles Plains. Mr. Prabhakar Bachu of Qld Telugu need them the most is nothing more Hard times wil Association is yet another example of “A l always re than an emotional battle he has to true friend v e al fruit laden tree always bends real low”, fight every day. friend in th s – Walking with a because of him Help Ujwal Team got so e dar During this phase of his life when walk many other helpful contacts which are now ing alone k is better than getting he needed so much of moral and in th e light Ujwal. actively involved and trying to help emotional support, his friends, (Helen Keller). came to rescue. When his friends The businesses which helped Ujwal are came to know that it’s going to cost him fortune Neighbourhood Tax Agent & Accountants, Bay for his Bone Marrow Transplant, they started a fund raising Leaf Restaurants, Nando’s Clayfield, Monika campaign to give him the financial support. He specially Groceries, Reliance Fresh Coopers Plains & Swades Foods thanks Prerna Pahwa, Bipin Karki and Avinash Shrestha Runcorn. There was a huge support lent by Griffith as they helped the initial accepting of the hard reality and University Indian Student Association and UQ Indian became his immediate family in Brisbane and are the Student Service (UQISS) as well. founders of Help Ujwal Poudel fund raising campaign.

Kritika Bansal and Kritika Bansal Event Management They have been covering most of the events to spread the Company have also helped Ujwal in its own way. Kritika word about Ujwal and are trying their best to get the was the guiding light of the Help Ujwal Team, who showed finances sorted for his Bone Marrow Transplant. They say the team the right path on how to spread the word about that we can’t help everyone but everyone can help some- Ujwal which was one of the major contributions towards one. helping Ujwal. Last but not the least a special thanks to Friends are angels in disguise, he says. He also says that Trishi Sethi, who went out of the way to spread the word he is lucky to have friends like these, who are fighting the about Ujwal among students here at Brisbane. battle along with him.

Being asked about people supporting him and donating for Heartfelt thanks his transplant, Ujwal says, it’s good to see people are stepCurrently studying in Holmes College he has deferred a ping forward and helping him, he would love to meet all semester for the treatment and says, His College has given and thank personally, but as it’s practically not possible, he an option of deferring the college seeing critical health and is taking this opportunity through Brisbane Indian Times he is really thankful to the college for being so helpful and to thank all his well-wishers and supporters. This has cerunderstanding. tainly restored his faith in humanity. He can’t thank enough He is also thankful to Nepali Association Queensland for what you all are doing for him; but he says that he is (NAQ), Non Residency Nepalese Australia (NRNA) and dif- definitely going to pay it forward when his time comes. ferent businesses from Nepali community which came for- As we all know his friends are doing a fund raising camward and helped Ujwal. He wanted to acknowledge The paign for his Bone Marrow Transplant and the target is still Paddington Curry House, Queensford College, Expert a long way to go. We here at Brisbane Indian Times Education and Visa partners, Aussie Education & Visa, would humbly request our readers to please come forward Einstein International Education Services, ISAN Education, and help make a difference in Ujwal’s life. You may feel BS Mate’s, Holmes Institute, Kathmandu New Chein, Nova like a drop in ocean but each and every drop counts. You Education & Migration services & Finance Concepts. He too can help save Ujwal’s life. would also like to thank from the bottom of his heart to Gurkha Football Club, they have been actively involved in For more information or donation please go to raising funds for him as well. www.HelpUjwal.com or www.gofundme.com/HelpUjwal It’s really overwhelming and heart touching he said, to see Find regular updates of Help Ujwal Poudel Fund raising the Indian Community stepping forward and helping him as Campaign go to well. Different Indian communities who took an initiative to https://www.facebook.com/UjwalPoudel22

Australian International Islamic College ground breaking ceremony Courtesy AIIC THE ground-breaking ceremony was held at Australian International Islamic College (AIIC) on 9 April at the Durack Campus, 724 Blunder Road, Durack to officially signify the start of the construction of state-ofthe-art library and preparatory building. The guests in attendance for the event included Mr. Duncan Pegg MP - representing the Premier of Queensland, Councillor Angela Owen-Taylor, Dr. Grant Watson from the Block Grant Authority, Mr. Indra Hassan – special envoy of the Indonesian Government, Ms. Mariana Lane from the Independent School of Queensland, Mr. Rod Morris from the Block Grant Authority, AIIC staff, students and parents.

The ceremony started with the recitation of Quran followed by the national anthem

by AIIC Nasheed Group. Mr Shahid Khan, the education advisor, welcomed the 10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

guests, while AIIC teacher Ms. Samantha Hestlehurst read the message from Senator the Hon. Scott Ryan, the parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Education. In his message, the Senator highlighted the commitment of the government to provide the Australian students with the infrastructure that will help them learn and equip them to face the increasingly challenging world.

The College Principal Mrs Mariam Banwa outlined the academic and extra-curricular achievements of the College and the need for the preparatory and library building.

She expressed her gratitude to the State and Federal Governments for the generous funding received and thanked the Block Grant Authority for their support and contributions towards this major project. In her address, Councillor Angela Owen-

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Taylor emphasised the importance of reading and promised to donate the first book to the library. Dr. Grant Watson also explained the need for a dedicated preparatory and library building in a school. Mr. Duncan Pegg emphasised the importance of inclusiveness in countering extremism and lauded the contribution of Muslims to Queensland economy and society. At the end, the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Abdul M. Ziyath, while Imam Yusuf Peer made the dua for successful construction of the building. The bricks were laid by the dignitaries and the representatives of AIIC staff and students.

Everyone took the opportunity of meeting and socializing with each other over the scrumptious lunch provided. Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all for your attendance and support.

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Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 11

• The organising committee on Chitrai Kalai Vizha 2015

Varnam Cultural Society Qld hosts Chitiral Kalai Vizha FOREST LAKE, 18th April 2015, Varnam Cultural Society Qld celebrated Chitrai Kalai Vizha at St John’s Anglican College auditorium. This ticketed event was sponsored by Lord Mayors Suburban Initiative fund.

A variety of cultural performances were presented by many talented local artists. Councillor Angela Owen Taylor, Anthony Shorten, Umesh Chandra and Fadlullah Wilmont lit the traditional lamp to inaugurate the function.

Sawpna Rajarajan, organised most of the cultural items together with her committee. Rajarajan Thennavan welcomed everyone to the function, Councillor

Angela Owen Taylor and Anthony Shorten both addressed the gathering on the occasion.

The stage items included children’s program and it good to see their participation; the credit goes to their parents and teachers who are devoting this time for the preservation of our cultural heritage. There are many forms of classical Indian dance based on various timing and ragas, it is amazing to see youngsters mastering these age old dance forms.

Tamil, Telgu and Malayalee communities took part in the celebration. The MCs were from Tamil and Malayalee community.

• Right: A striking pose by Classical dancers Chitrai Kalai Vizha 2015

Love is not enough for entry into Australia – planning is essential THERE is an old Boy Scout saying – be prepared. When it comes to matters of love and immigration, it pays to be organised because you never know what life will throw at you.

Twenty years ago, Julia Webb and her Australian-born husband were living in the Philippines. Happily married and with a young son, they intended to move to Australia when it was time for him to start high school.

Then tragedy hit. Julia’s husband was killed in a plane crash. Unfortunately because a partner visa had not been applied for before her died, the only option remaining for Julia was to get a parent visa so she and her son could move to Australia.

Julia said the process of applying for a parent visa was long and stressful. “I already applied for the parent visa while we were still in the Philippines. Even though my son is Australia, here was 10 year waiting period before it would be approved – you have to go into a waiting queue,” she said.

“I was separated from my son for over two years, while he went to school. I eventually applied for a tourist visa, but I could not work. I tried everything I could to move the process along – I just wanted to be with my son.

“It was February 2013 I received a call from Immigration giving me approval for permanent residency. This took four years.”

Julia said working with a migration agent made the process less stressful.

“Even though this was one of the hardest time of my life, working with an agent meant when my application failed, she knew what to do next,” she said.

“After what happened to me, my son is now studying justice at university.”

Emma Drynan, managing director of Freedom Migration, who worked with

• Alan and Julia Webb.

Julia said eventually the Minister granted Julia a permanent visa. “However, a lot of pain could have been avoided by planning ahead,” she said.

“For the Australian Government, a marriage certificate is not in itself enough proof to show that the relationship is a legitimate one. The process of applying for a partner visa can take nine to twelve months, so if you are planning on returning to Australia, the time to start organising all paperwork should begin as soon as possible” If you are an Australian who marries someone from another country and want your new family to call Australia home, these are the things you need to consider.

1. Consider your future plans – do you plan on having children? What are your long terms plans for your children – do you want them to go to school in Australia, do you want your children to have the ability to travel freely to Australia if you passed away, would you want your family to settle in Australia.

2. Job loss – if you are an expat work-

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

ing abroad and the employment market changed, resulting in losing your job, could you return to Australia immediately? In some cases, the Australian citizen has to return home immediately but leave their family behind because they had not organised a partner visa in advance. A partner visa takes about nine to 12 months.

3. Committed relationship is the trigger for future visa planning – the right time to start planning is when you find someone you want to spend your life with (this does not mean it is the right time to lodge). This is when you make enquiries, not when you decide you want to come back to Australia – you may be putting yourself back 12 months if your evidence is not prepared.

But what is considered evidence to prove you are in a committed genuine relationship?

Emma said proving your relationship is genuine, in some cases, is harder to do overseas than if you lived in Australia.

“In Australia, we have a piece of paper for everything – rental bond with both names, licence, electricity, bank account. We have a paper trail for our entire life,” she said.

“But overseas, many places are still cash societies – you do not get receipts – or if it is country where documentation is only in one person’s name there is no evidence you have lived together.

“This does make it harder but there are a number of different ways you can evidence the various aspects of your relationship for example photos of your time together, social media communication. Living in an expat environment – friends or business colleagues can provide statements. Evidence of having paid for each other expenses. Social media posts are also considered proof of a relationship.” www.freedommigration.com

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Four hectare Botanic Gardens expansion opens to public LORD Mayor Graham Quirk announced 4 May that the four hectare expansion to Brisbane’s Botanic Gardens will open to the public on Sunday 17 May, with a free community event to mark the occasion.

The Botanic Gardens, located at Mt Coot-tha, are one of Brisbane’s most popular tourist destinations and have been expanded as part of the Legacy Way project.

Cr Quirk said that a celebration event featuring live music and cooking demonstrations will be on offer while visitors get their first chance to explore the new areas of the Botanic Gardens.

“This is the largest expansion of the Gardens since their opening in 1970 and has involved 31,000 new individual native plants, one of which is a 250 year old Cycad tree.

“These new gardens also feature more than 1,100 different plant varieties, including many established varieties of Queensland native Bottle Trees and Palms up to five metres tall, so this will be a great area to use from day one.”

“People will be able to enjoy cooking demonstrations from Nutrition Australia and Wine & Dine’m, music from local musician Chris Sheehy and Ukulele pop band The Lazy Leis and kids will be kept entertained with an animal farm, dirtgirl! and a jumping castle.”

Cr Quirk said a great deal of work went into the design of the Gardens expansion to provide areas that would be popular with families and tourists alike.

“We’ve consulted extensively with the Botanic Gardens curating team to develop new gardens areas that reproduce different Queensland habitats including Bush Foods, Costal plants, a Cycad grove and the Queensland Conservation Walk that features more than 200 rare and endangered plant species.

“In addition to the plantings, new features, including an 18 megalitre lagoon, forest and lagoon walks, picnic facilities, nature-themed playground and an interactive kitchen garden have been built.

Free buses will run between the Botanic Gardens and Roma Street, King George Square, High Street Toowong, Indooroopilly Shopping Centre and Monier Road, Darra to transport people to and from the event, starting at 8.30am time.

For more information about the free community event to celebrate the expanded Botanic Gardens, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/legacyway.

The award winning Legacy Way tunnel will be open to traffic mid-2015.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 13

Combined Indian New Year celebrated

• Photo by Moments Photography @Reena Augustine.

AS India stands tall for its unity in diversity, so does the Indian New Year! The specialty of the Indian New Year is that it has more than ten different names and the celebrations differ from one Indian state to another, however the celebration takes place almost on the same day.

Bharatiya Navwarsh (Indian New Year) was celebrated in a combined manner for the first time in Brisbane. This ground breaking, history making event was organised by Brisbane Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio and Divya Jyothi Jagriti Sansthan.

The inaugural combined Indian New Year Celebration was held on 12th April at Our lady Of Lourdes College in Sunnybank The dignitaries included; Guest of Honour, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, Minister representing The Premier - Stirling Hinchliffe MP, Assistant Minister of State Assisting the Premier, Representing Deputy Police

Moments Photography @Reena Augustine Commissioner Assistant Commissioner Peter Martin, Umesh and Usha Chandra, Sanjeev Sharma, Honorary Consul of India in Queensland Mrs Archana Singh.

The event received many favourable reviews and good feedback; people have expressed their interest to be part of this event in a bigger manner next year. The stage program included many talented artists showcasing talents from various regions of India. The response was so good that the hall was full to its capacity. The event was funded by the three main organisers; hence patrons did not have to pay anything.

Indian New Year is celebrated on the first day of the first month, Chaitra of the Hindu Lunar calendar. According to the Gregorian calendar, this day falls between 11th to 15th April depending upon the coinciding of the day in the Hindu Lunar calendar with the

local state religious calendar.

Indians firmly believe that when they perform their religious rituals and portray their devotion towards their Gods on the Indian New Year Day, they will be blessed with good luck and success throughout the year.

So, they don’t just pray for their welfare, but also for the well-being of their family members and of course India!

19th Buddha Birthday festival Indian Music and Dance Exams Recognised for QCE

19th Buddha birthday festival was celebrated from 1st till 3rd May in Brisbane, with a range of events in and around Southbank.

The main organisers Chung Tian Temple, Buddha Light International Association.

Since 1997 the Buddha Birth Day Festival has grown into one of Queensland’s most prestigious cultural events attracting in excess of 200,000 visitors and is now recognized as the largest annual Buddhist Birth Day Festival in the world. This year the Buddha Birth Day Festival is proud to be celebrating its 19th anniversary at The Parklands at Southbank.

They continue to showcase the diversity of Australia’s multicultural society, as visitors can enjoy a relaxed environment surrounded by a range of displays, entertained by a variety of performances and experience many cultural customs and activities and vegetarian food. It is a Festival for every-

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

one, regardless of ages, religious or cultural backgrounds.

On Saturday 2nd May the Official festival ceremony extravaganza was attended by many dignitaries including Lord Mayor, Graham Quirk Police Commissioner Ian Stewart, State and Federal Ministers of Parliament, Councillors Multicultural community leaders.

The official festival was extremely well organised and very coordinated, the performances were of very high standard, and two visiting performers from Taiwan won the hearts of everyone with their amazing performances.

Invited dignitaries were treated to a special vegetarian treat in the forecourt overlooking the magnificent parklands. The whole parklands were themed with special lighting and decorations for the occasion.

• "Nikhil Deo (Logan) and Arun Pillai (Gold Coast) both received distinctions in the last round of PRSSV tabla exams."

THE Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) has recognised the Indian Music and Dance examinations held by Pandit Ram Sahai Sangit Vidyalaya (PRSSV) as contributing studies for the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), which most students receive at the end of year 12. The studies can contribute up to 8 non-Core credits out of the required 20 for a QCE, and advanced studies can contribute to improved ranking with QTAC for tertiary entrance.

PRSSV Ambassador in Australia, tabla player Shen Flindell, said “My students have been taking the exams in tabla for several years now, which has really motivated their learning in both the practical and the-

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oretical sides of Indian classical music. The higher grades are really quite demanding in terms of both practice and study, so I hope this official recognition will give them even more incentive to prioritise tabla in their day.”

The next round of PRSSV Tabla Examinations are scheduled for Saturday July 11th. As well as tabla, the recognised courses include Bansuri, Carnatic Vocal, Dhol, Harmonium, Hindustani Vocal, Kathak Dance, and Sitar. Music and dance teachers who are interested in presenting their students for PRSSV exams are requested to contact Shen Flindell by email at shen@ethnosuperlounge.com.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 15

Sri Selva Vinayagar Temple – Kumbabishekam

SRI Selva Vinayagar Koyil of South Maclean reopens its doors with the Maha Kumbabishekam.

The Maha Kumbabishekam which started on 24th April was concluded on Friday 1st May 2015 with various special Poojas and Yakam were held every day, in preparation for the reseating of the deities and pouring of the sanctified water.

On Thursday 30th April the deities were moved to new seating and devotees were overjoyed as they had the rare opportunity to bathe the deities in oil. After this event devotees are not permitted inside the sanctum sanctorum.

On the 1st of May, rain signified a good omen and though very heavy, the several thousand devotees attending were not deterred, arriving as early as 6:30am. An atmosphere of elation and exhilaration prevailed, witnessing the pouring of sanctified water over the deities from the tower was a

rarity that most would have little chance to witness again. The devotees felt holiness and great sensation in their body to stand in the large newly renovated hall, with several deities and hear group chanting of Mantra by the beautifully dressed high ranking priests, together with traditional drums and flutes and the chief priests offering bright light to the Load Ganesh.

The priests, their wives and the devotees were dressed colourfully, reminiscent of gatherings in India or Sri Lanka.

Thousands of devotees as well as distinguished guests from government and nongovernment sectors from all states of Australia attended the Maha Kumbabishekam consecration.

There were several dignitaries including His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersy AC the governor of Queensland, His Excellency Mr Navdeep Suri High commissioner of India, local political leaders, community leaders and government officials.

The governor of Queensland and the High commissioner of India Planted sacred Pipal and Neem tree close together. Hindus believe that Load Shiva and His consort Shakthi reside on the trees respectively.

Several dignitaries delivered speeches, praising the monumental task performed by the Hindu Ahlaya Sangam in the construction of such a beautiful building laden with rich and thoughtful art work. The Indian High commissioner also offered praise to the Australian Government’s multicultural policy and acceptance by the Australian people.

The Hindu Alhaya Sangam’s President Mr Wimalachandran and the committee were delighted that His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersy AC, the governor of Queensland, His Excellency Mr Navdeep Suri, Mr Linus Power officially representing The Premier Queensland Hon. Annastcia Palaszczuk and several VIPs participated in the historic day of the Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil

consecration ceremony and are very thankful for dedication of their time.

Best wishes massage from the Honourable Tony Abbott, The Prime Minister of Australia, was read by the treasurer Yogi Srikantha.

The Sangam was proud that it was able to build a unique and magnificent Temple with thousands of sculptures, artwork and drawings. These works describe Hindus beliefs and mythology and will serve in the future as a visual education for visitors and new generations to come. The Sangam envisions further improvements for the site such as a cultural centre, Hinduism lessons, presentations and onsite residence for devotees. The Sangam believes the site will be a great iconic structure and tourist attraction for South East Queensland.

The Sangam is very grateful to all levels of government, Logan city council and local Councillor Trevina Schwarz for their continuous support.

The Sangam was also thankful to Queensland police for their help to control traffic and legal advice. Special thanks to officers on duty.

The Sangam would also thank the Indian architect, Mr Senthil Manian Sthabathi and

his staff for their professional work and dedication. The Sangam appreciated the effort and dedication of all the volunteers.

The Maha Kumbabishekam was concluded victoriously. Committee is looking forward to see you at the temple for the future events.

There will be Manadala Abishekam for 48 Days from 2nd May. Few spots available, if you are interested Please contact the Koyil at 07 5547 7302.

Temple Address 4915-4923 Mt Lindsay Highway, South Maclean, Qld. 4280.

Media coordinators A.S.Thillainathan and O.Palanichamy

Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore, 19 Feb - 15 Mar 2015

By Celine Goh

The heart of the Chinese New Year celebrations have always been in Chinatown.

CHINESE New Year is the most important This year I have decided to stay at the event in the Chinese Lunar calendar to re- Park22 Hotel at 22 Teck Lim Street, right in live our cherished generational values. the heart of Chinatown. Positively friendly These values include respect for our elders, and family oriented in service, the Hotel is family unity through family visits and re- excellent, location-wise. union dinners, as well as the expression of It is a unique fact of life in Singapore that good wishes and the exchange of monetary all four major races in Singapore (the gifts in red packets for continued prosperity Chinese, Malays, Indians and Eurasians) and well-bring. celebrate each other’s festivities with comEven as Singapore strides towards rapid plete enjoyment. progress in technology and economic develChinese New Year delicacies (love letters, opment, it is heartening that the Chinese kueh bankit and pineapple tarts) appeal to community have not let these traditional one and all. Food is lovingly prepared with values be eroded or forgotten. symbolic significance attached to ensure a good and auspicious year ahead with particular emphasis on prosperity, longevity, peace and harmony.

Traditionally, prosperity fish, longevity noodles, glutinous sweet rice cakes are served and, being the Year of the Goat for 2015, stewed goat meat dishes are very popular too.

Chinatown came • The rich cultural performances of the Chingay Parade. alive when it was 16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

• Chinatown ushers in the Year of the Goat.

lighted up with goat-shaped lanterns and gold coin lanterns were festooned above the prancing goats.

Red and gold are the predominant colours during the festive season, symbolising good fortune, joy and prosperity. Gold is the colour of nobility. In Singapore, shops and whole streets of vendors ply their wares in dazzling red and gold.

An integral part of the Chinese New Year celebrations in Singapore is the Chingay Parade, a multi-cultural, carnival-like event attracting dancers and performers from different parts of the world. This year they included cultural groups from Indonesia,

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Gansu and Xinjiang (two provinces from the North West of China), Russia, India and for the first time, the Republic of Rwanda.

Crowds along the famous tourist thoroughfare of Orchard Road were entertained to twirling, whirling dancers in a mesmerising display of the rich cultural heritage of these countries. As this is a year that will celebrate Singapore’s 50th anniversary of independence, the air was filled with well-loved Singaporean songs that binds us together in unity.

It is truly a feast of sight and sound that celebrates not only Chinese New Year but a world in miniature!

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Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 17

Allegations of worker exploitation

New York to host Annual GOPIO International Council Meeting GOPIO International will hold its annual International Council meeting in New York on 5th and 6th of June. The last GOPIO International Council meeting was held in Trinidad in May 2014 during the 25th Anniversary of GOPIO International which coincided with the 169th Anniversary of Indian arrival day in Trinidad. GOPIO International worked together with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and Indian High commission in Trinidad in establishing a permanent monument in memory of the first Indians who arrived on the shores of Trinidad and Tobago. All of the above were very significant to GOPIO hence the deviation from the usual trend of the GOPIO International Council meeting being held in India during PBD. The International Council is the ultimate decision and policy making body of GOPIO International, at this annual event, Individual chapters will get an opportunity to present their reports to the International council. International l council will get an opportunity to ratify accounts and endorse changes to the bylaws etc.

A women’s conference has been incorporated in the program, Women of the Indian Diaspora have made significant advances in almost all segments of society yet there remain many hurdles to overcome and

many obstacles to be removed for women to advance and achieve full potential and bring about equity at all levels. Women account for more than 50% of the population of the world while their untapped resources of talent, skills, aspirations and skills can help society as a whole. The women of the Indian Diaspora can advance this agenda forward and be examples to women of the developing world. This GOPIO session would be a good beginning of GOPIO’s global initiative by GOPIO Women’s Council working in collaboration with chapters globally to focus on this very important issue.

The conference will be held at LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, New York. GOPIO International has negotiated special rates for all delegates. Umesh Chandra International coordinator (Oceania) said “anyone wishing to take part in the International Council meeting should contact him for the booking details. The executive council meeting will not be open to public; all other events will be open to public”.

Umesh Chandra together with Harmohan Singh Walia attended a special GOPIO International meeting in Malaysia, which focused on trade collaborations especially with Tamil Nadu state in India in partnership with GOPIO.

EXPLOITATION of workers in Australia, whether domestic or foreign, is unlawful.

Any employer engaging or paying workers below those conditions is breaking the law.

Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Senator the Hon. Michaelia Cash said that all 417 visa holders must be employed in line with Australian pay, conditions and workplace entitlements under the Fair Work Act or relevant state legislation.

“Any allegations of underpayment should be referred to the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO). Labour-hire companies, like all Australian employers, are also legally required to treat and remunerate all of their employees, including foreign visa holders, with work rights in accordance with Australian workplace law. The Department of Immigration and Border Protection is currently investigating the employment of 417 visa holders by On-Hire Labour firms,” Minister Cash said.

“The allegations made in last night’s (4 May) Four Corners programme are concerning. While the majority of employers do the right thing and treat their workers with the decency they deserve, we have a responsibility to ensure we are doing all we can to address the instances where worker’s rights are being compromised which is why the Government continues to undertake targeted compliance activities across several departments.”

“Both the Department of Immigration and Border Protection and the FWO are active in ongoing compliance campaigns to ensure that 417 visa holders are being paid in accordance with Australian pay and conditions.”

Minister Cash said the FWO currently has an Overseas Workers’ Team operating across Australia. The Fair Work Ombudsman has dealt with over 6000 requests for assistance from visa-holders, recovered more than $4 million in outstanding wages and entitlements, provided advice and assistance to over 5000 overseas workers and visa-holders who have called the Fair Work Infoline and commenced more than 50 legal actions in relation to visa holders.

“In addition, the FWO is currently run-

ning a three-year, comprehensive program called the Harvest Trail, to ensure seasonal workers (many of them overseas workers and international backpackers on the 417 working holiday visa) receive their minimum lawful entitlements,” Minister Cash said.

“The Department of Immigration and Border Protection will continue to work closely with the FWO to ensure workers are aware of their rights and are provided with the workplace entitlements and protections that they are entitled to.”

“The Government recently announced an important integrity reform to the Working Holiday Visa programme, amending volunteer work arrangements and requiring payslips be provided as evidence of work in Australia to obtain a second Working Holiday Visa. This is a significant integrity measure that will reduce the possibility of exploitation and offer better protections for foreign visa holders. ” “The Working Holiday Visa programme is an important cultural exchange programme that has provided a unique travelling experience for thousands of migrants, as well as Australians. It is essential that the programme continues and public confidence in the system is maintained.”

The Government actively encourages overseas workers who have concerns that their workplace rights are being compromised to contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 131 394 or the Department of Immigration and Border Protection on 131 881. The FWO has an interpreter service on 13 14 50. The FWO website has materials translated into 27 different languages including fact sheets for overseas workers at www.fairwork.gov.au.

GOPIO South African Chapters takes on Xenophobia!

THE recent spate of xenophobic attacks in South Africa has left many African foreigners displaced and homeless. This impacted negatively on the plight of the poor and further exacerbated local businesses and the general economy with Nigeria threatening action amidst calls to sever all ties with South Africa. A moment of bleakness in the once celebrated democracy.

Non-resident Indians, and not South African Indians ( PIO’s), became one of the circumstantial targets of xenophobia and were inadvertently caught in the wave of violence which led to a ripple pandemonium amongst the Indian community where questions of “Where do we stand “ rang out. As the dust settled from Gandhis footsteps on the backdrop of Mandelas walk to freedom, we were once again reminded of that terrible time in history of Apartheid.

GOPIO was vociferous in its stance against these actions as it simply goes against the grain of the organisation and the cohesive passive underlying philosophies of Indians. As communities and businessmen huddled together in meetings to strategize a way to protect themselves and their interests, GOPIO chapters took a both a public and deliberate stance against these heinous crime against humanity.

The South African Government has committed to minority protection with President Zuma cancelling overseas trips to deal with these issues specifically. He has ordered a task team to investigate this incident with public condemnation of the incidents. South African Broadcasting Services TV stations SABC one , two and three currently display a stop xenophobia logo on all their channels as local press and 18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

radio stations also condemned the incident and have called for peace and tolerance. Zulu King Zwelithini has since clarified his stance on the matter and also called for peace and calm.

GOPIO’s Johannesburg chapter President Mr Sunny Jugwanth and his members joined a public street march organised by GOPIO member Valerie Sebastian. Valerie is a member of staff of the National Human rights council of South Africa. GOPIO members adorned in branded campaign apparel on Human Rights, carrying Gopio banners, made a visual statement of condemnation.

At an emergency meeting of the Gopio - Durban chapter, www.indiantimes.com.au

President Dr Kinesh Pather emphatically supported GOPIO Africa coordinator, Ishwar…. who has been tasked to form and lead a task team to deal with various issues that may affect the Indian community in a more pre-emptive manner. This will contribute to the process being proactive rather than reactive and allow for a more united response. “We are stronger when we speak with one voice!” said Mr Ishwar. Vice President Dr Krish Naidoo conducted the meeting calling for members to be supportive of the foreign nationals and as Gopio we should be more charitable and giving to those in need. Cape Town chapter president Yegan Nair strongly supported the drive and the need for a proactive approach.

A letter written by Loshni Naidoo, National Coordinator, on behalf of Gopio, was sent to the local media, The Post Newspaper, which was printed in its 22 April edition.

GOPIO has made a concerted effort in ensuring visual condemnation of this inhumane violence and once again continues to serve the Indian diaspora as a platform for active engagement in the interests of the community.

Currently the situation is settled and calm has returned. For how long we are not sure. Members of the community are still meeting to make sure that we are more prepared for this situation should it arise again.

We, in South Africa, would like to place on record our heartfelt thanks to our brothers and sisters from Gopio International offices and chapters who sent their messages of concern and prayers.

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Council helps Brisbane’s dining precincts sparkle

WINING and dining across Brisbane is becoming a more ambient and sophisticated experience with Council today launching a new initiative to spruce up the streetscapes around the city’s restaurant and retail precincts.

Environment, Parks and Sustainability Chairman Matthew Bourke said Council was livening up the city’s dining precincts by allowing businesses to install bud lighting in street trees around their premises, under Council’s guidance.”

“This will bring the streets of Brisbane to life, creating night time landmarks for local business centres and boosting the nighttime economy,” Cr Bourke said.

“The bud lighting will help local business precincts shine bright at all times of the day, adding to the night time ambience of restaurants, cafés, and shopping precincts.”

“Individual business owners or occupiers, business groups, and Chambers of Commerce can apply to install bud lights in street trees in commercial areas.

“These sites will be assessed for their suitability, with special consideration to the impacts on the trees.”

Cr Bourke said Council would work closely with businesses so the lighting was safe and did not impact on the health of the trees.

“The bud lighting applications are free, straightforward, and available online, easing the process for applicants,” Cr Bourke said.

“Previously, this kind of lighting was not allowed, because unless managed carefully, it could damage street trees.

“This initiative allows Council to monitor and provide appropriate advice to businesses looking to install the sustainable, extralow voltage bud lights, so there is no risk to the public or the trees.

“This is just one way Council is supporting Brisbane businesses by making it as easy as possible to obtain permits and licences for activities that will bring customers back to our suburban shopping areas, such as bud lighting in street trees and footpath dining.

“Council also continues to support local businesses through its 24-hour Business Hotline (133 263), and by providing tools, tips, and information on Council’s website to help the city’s businesses flourish.”

Applicants must include a simple layout plan and photos showing the location of the trees, footpaths, traffic signals/signage, adjacent buildings, details of the type of bud lighting and any associated wiring above the footpath, a copy of current public liability insurance cover, and a declaration agreeing to comply with public safety, tree protection, and lighting maintenance requirements.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 19

Lord Mayors 30 Year International community comes to Nepal’s aid celebration Dinner following the earthquake disaster

LORD Mayor Graham Quirk celebrated 30 years as a Brisbane City Councillor on 29th April at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The $300 per head dinner attracted about 1,200 people from all works of life.

Amongst the guests were Campbell and Lisa Newman. The event was anchored by Sofie Formica of the Great South East TV show.

Former Brisbane mayor Sallyanne Atkinson, was interviewed on stage in a live TV show manner. Apart from the speeches a video presentation was put together highlighting Lord Mayors journey into politics.

The Plaza Ballroom was tastefully decorated and appropriately themed. While celebrating Lord Mayors thirty years as a councillor the event also served as a fundraiser for LNP.

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Deputy Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the event was being organised by the LNP, not the Lord Mayor or council.

“Over the past 30 years Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has worked tirelessly for the residents of Brisbane in both his roles as a local councillor and Lord Mayor,” Cr Schrinner said.

He said all donations would be declared in accordance with the law at the time.

“Fundraising is done by every major political party and any issues are a matter for the LNP,” he said.

In the 2012 council election Cr Quirk was voted in with a strong margin, taking almost 62 per cent of the primary vote, compared to Labor’s candidate Ray Smith who took just 25.16 per cent. Cr Quirk served as a councillor until becoming Lord Mayor in 2011.

THE International community was quick to respond to the natural disaster in Nepal, however there are many questions about the aid reaching the needy. The question is whether it is political point scoring or true humanitarian gesture.

Many Nepalese residents have complained that they have not received any aid, where are the funds going to they ask. People worldwide are donating generously to whichever aid agency they have access to; there have been reports of unscrupulous operations in many counties where by fake bank account details have been circulated in name of charity. Donors are asked to exercise care when transferring funds.

GOPIO International has donated US$10,000 via Indian Prime Ministers relief funds. Many Australian charities including Red Cross and Lions clubs are also assisting with the fund raisng.

India has wrapped up Operation Maitri after Nepal asked rescue teams from 34 countries to leave as it prepared to launch massive operations to rehabilitate millions of displaced victims of last month’s massive trembler.

India was one of the first countries to respond to the 7.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Nepal on April 25 and launched its largest ever relief operation in response to a natural disaster on foreign soil.

The quake killed more than 7,200 people, including 41 Indians, and injured 14,355. It also affected around 8 million of the 28 million population of Nepal.

Nepal Prime Minister Sushil Koirala said his country was indebted to India for its swift response to the humanitarian crisis.

Speaking to HT after being briefed by officials on the pace of aid delivery to far-flung areas, Koirala said, “I have no words to express appreciation for the Indian assistance. Actually, the contribution of all international teams, including the Chinese, has been extraordinary.”

Within six hours of the tragedy, India sent the first air force flight that landed in Kathmandu with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rescue teams and relief materials.

Thereafter, 32 air force flights brought in 520 tonnes of materials such as tents, blankets, medicines, cooking material, food, water, heavy engineering equipment, ambulances, RO plant, oxygen generators, two full-fledged army field hospitals with 18 medical teams, 18 army engineering teams and 16 NDRF teams.

Wedged between the two rising Asian powers of China and India, landlocked Nepal watched rescuers and offers of help pour in from both sides within hours of an earthquake that killed more than 4,000 people.

India, the traditional power in the region, launched Operation Maitri soon after the quake. It has sent the most help so far, deploying 13 aircraft and more than 500 rescuers as well as water, food, equipment and medical supplies.

China, increasingly making inroads in Nepal through everything from infrastructure investment to increased tourism, also pledged all-out assistance within hours of the disaster. It has sent 62 rescuers plus blankets, tents and generators and announced plans to send 4 planes and an additional 170 soldiers.

India’s rival, Pakistan, also has sent four cargo planes full of supplies, including concrete cutters and sniffer dogs.

The largesse of recent days is a microcosm of something much larger. It represents a subtle brand of disaster politics, a curious but understandable focus on strategically located Nepal, one of the poorest nations in

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its region but — clearly — a pocket of regional importance for powerful neighbours jockeying for position.

Nepal’s population of 27 million traditionally has fallen under India’s economic and political sway. India, also a predominantly Hindu nation, considers Nepal within its traditional sphere of influence, and as many as 3 million Nepalese live and work in India.

But recent years have seen Nepal forge closer ties with China as a counterweight, and the Nepalese government has assured Beijing that it will not tolerate any antiChina political activism by Tibetans in Nepal.

An increasingly expansive Beijing, meanwhile, is eager to court the Nepalese government as it opens trade routes south and westward and seeks to keep the neighbouring country’s exiled Tibetan community from fomenting unrest across the border in China-controlled Tibet.

China also is aiming to “shoulder more international responsibilities and duties” as its economy and global profile increases, said Wang Lian, an expert on South Asian affairs at Peking University’s School of International Studies.

“When China walks the walk and fulfills its duties, it will certainly boost its influence in South Asia and add to the goodwill that the Nepalese public has toward China,” said Wang.

Diplomats in Nepal’s neighbouring countries deny any rivalry in aid efforts. Still, the quake has provided a venue for them to display their strengths in humanitarian assistance and, by extension, their relative sway.

While China’s relief efforts may not rival India’s in Nepal quite yet, its offers of investment in the power industry and other infrastructure could give India some substantial competition, said SD Muni, an expert on Nepal with the government-run think tank Institute for Defense Studies and Analyses.

“The Chinese have sent their first relief team, and they would certainly provide economic assistance to Nepal, which finds itself in a terrible condition,” said Muni.

With nearly $4 trillion in foreign currency reserves and a vast engineering and manufacturing capacity, China is likely to play a major role in Nepal’s rebuilding process.

China also has been planning to extend railway tracks to the border with Nepal that may eventually connect to Kathmandu.

All these investments are part of Beijing’s ambitious plans to build infrastructure across a broad swath of southern and Central Asia, as highlighted in a recent pledge to invest as much as $46 billion in Pakistan.

Pakistan, which sent 4 C-130 aircraft to Nepal by Monday, views its neighbour as a supportive but independent voice in the region, while India feels it needs to keep Nepal on its side as China boosts its involvement there, said Pakistani defense analyst Talat Masood, a former army general.

HT Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 21

Who, What, Where, When

• Parade Commander for the Forest Lake ANZAC Day March 2015, Warrant Officer Class One Asveen Chand of Australian Regular Army leading the march. Warrent Officer Class One Asveen Chand was born and educated in Suva, Fiji Islands. After completing his education Warrant officer Chand migrated to Australian in 1989 and in August 1990; he enlisted into the Australian Regular Army. Warrant Officer Chand’s honours and awards include: Australian Defence Medal, NATO Non Article 5 Medal with clasp – ISAF, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Australian Active Service Medal, United Nations Medal, Defence Long Service Medal, Australian Service Medal with clasp Counter Terrorism/Special Recovery and Soldier’s Medallion.

• On Saturday 11th April, Diwakar Moothy celebrated his birthday at Gayatri Mandir together with his wife Louise, friends and students. His students performed special numbers for his on the occasion.

• The recipients of this year’s Budhha’s birthday celebration donation by Buddha Light International Association at Southbank.

• Hon Shannon Fentiman, Minister for Communities, Women and Youth, Minister for Child Safety and Minister for Multicultural Affairs with Umesh and Usha Chandra at Buddha’s birthday celebration in Southbank.

• Yoga guru Swami Shree Baba Ramdevji visited Brisbane on 7th and 8th April, Mukesh, Kaushal Shah and son Tanmay Shah had the fantastic opportunity to get blessings and learn YOGA lessons from Shree Baba Ramdevji at Rocklea in Brisbane, they attended 2 days yoga sessions at the Croatian community centre, Rocklea, Brisbane. The hall was full with approximately 200 Brisbane yoga lovers.

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 www.indiantimes.com.au Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 23

24 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

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Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 25

Who, What, Where, When

• Mukesh and Kaushal Shah won the gift hamper for the best couple at the recent show “Baap • ‘Alphabet Safari’ performance by the Chinmaya Balvihar kids at the Navarash celebrations. ka Baap” played at ERPAC starring comedy actor Asarani and actress Padmini Kolhapuri.

Mukesh said, “it was our priviledge and once in a lifetime opportunity to receive the gift hamper Balvihar teaches kids key values in life to help grow as good adults at the Sunday family program.

More details at www.chinmaya.com.au”. from Bollywood actress, Padmini Kolhapuri”.

• All World Gayatri Pariwar Brisbane marked the anniversary of the Ashwamedha Gayatri Maha Yagna with the visit of a “Toli” from Shatikunj, Hariwar. The Toli included Shri Kameshwar Das, Shri Jamuna Prasad Sahu and Shri Shyam Bihari Dubey who recited the Prayna Puran at Gayatri Mandir and Runcorn Heights State School.

• The Vannineyam Board of Trustees in New Zealand presented a concert recently consisting of a variety of thoughtprovoking, stimulating and expressive dances and a science based drama of high standard with a view to raising funds for the deserving children in Vanni, Sri Lanka. “Honor unto whom honor is due” is aptly applicable to the Vannineyam Board of Trustees for their selfless voluntary work. Photo’s courtesy Thilliar VarnakulaSingham

• Brisbane Indian Times office and Australian Indian Radio’s studio gets a lot of visitors, AIR has aired many community interviews of current affairs and upcoming events. Pictured left: Arthur Needham co author of the book “Coins of India”. Centre: Dominik Luczak organiser Festival of Chariots. Right: Dheeraj Shresta Cultural Ambassador for Nepalese Association of Queensland.

• Harry Singh and Sanjeev Sharma of Divya Jyothi Sansthan with Trudi Tarres and Umesh • The panel of Judges at Miss and Mrs Punjaban 2015 held at Cavendish Sate High School Chandra in Brisbane Indian Times / Australian Indian Radio office.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 www.indiantimes.com.au Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 27

The Month of Rajab and Merajun Nabi Prepared by Imam M. Aslam ALL praise be to Allah Ta’ala the cherisher and sustainer of the world and peace and blessings be upon his prophet Muhammad Sallalahu Alaihi Wasallam Rajab is the 7th month of the Islamic Lunar calendar.

This month was regarded as one of the sacred months in which battles were prohibited in the days of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). It is also deemed as a prelude to the month of Ramadhan, because Ramadhan follows it after the intervening month of Shabaan. Therefore, when the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) sighted the moon of Rajab, he used to pray to Allah in the following words: “Allahumma baa-rik-lanaa fee-rajaba wa sha’baana wa bal-lig-naa shah-ra ramadhaana.”

“O Allah, make the months of Rajab and Shabaan blessed for us, and let us reach the month of Ramadhan.” (i.e. prolong our life up to Ramadhan, so that we may benefit from its merits and blessings).

It would be meritorious to recite these duaas often in the months of Rajab and Sha’ban, as they are a prelude to the auspicious month of Ramadaan.

Doing Zikr, Taubah, Istighfar and at least observing a few fasts are highly recommended in this month.

Mer’aaj and Isra: ISRAA (NIGHT JOURNEY): refers to the journey of the Messenger of Allah (Peace and blessings be upon him) from the Sacred Mosque (Masjidul Haram) in Makkah to the Distant Mosque (Masjidul Aqsa) in Jerusalem on Al-Buraq in the company of Gabriel (Jibraeel-alaiyhis salaam).

MI’ RAJ (ASCENSION): Refers to what happened to the Prophet(Peace and blessings be upon him) when he ascended from al-Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem up to beyond the Seventh Heaven, where Salaat(prayer) was prescribed, and then returning back in the same fashion in the same night.

AL-ISRA AND Al-MI‘RAJ Summary of Events (The Miraculous Night Journey from Makkah to the Farthest Mosque in Jerusalem, and the Ascent through the Spheres of Heavens) The story of ‘the Night Journey’ as we see in the Noble Qur’ân is epitomised in the first verse of the Sûrah Isra’(Chapter 17 — The Journey by Night) “Glorified be Allah Who enabled His slave, (Muhammad), for a journey by night from Masjid alHaram (in Makkah) to Masjid al-Aqsa (in Jerusalem), the neighbourhood whereof We blessed, in order that We might show him (Muhammad) of our Ayat (proofs, evidences, signs etc.). Verily, He is the All-Hearer ,the All-Seer.” This journey is also confirmed in the sahih (authentic) hadith. As such, there is scholarly consensus (ijma) that Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) journeyed in body and soul on the night of al-Isra’ from Masjid al-Haram in Makkah to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem and to the heavens beyond.

The Messenger of Allâh (Peace and blessings be upon him) was carried in body from the Sacred Mosque in Makkah to the Distant Mosque in Jerusalem on a horse called Al-Buraq in the company of Gabriel (Jibraeelalaiyhis salaam), the archangel. There he alighted, tethered the horse to a ring in the gate of the Mosque and led the Prophets in prayer. After that Gabriel (Jibraeel-alaiyhis salaam) took him to the heavens on the same horse. When they reached the first heaven Gabriel (Jibraeel-alaiyhis salaam) asked the guardian angel to open the door of heaven. It was opened and he saw Adam (Peace be upon him), the progenitor of mankind. The Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) saluted him and he welcomed him and expressed his faith in Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him)’s Prophethood.

Gabriel (Jibraeel-alaiyhis salaam) then ascended with the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) to the second heaven, asked for opening the gate and there he saw and saluted John, son of Zachariya (Yahya bin Zakariya (Peace be upon him)) and Jesus-Isa (Peace be upon him), son of Mary. They returned the salutation, welcomed him and expressed their faith in his Prophethood. Then they reached the third heaven where they saw Joseph (Yusuf (Peace be upon him)) and saluted him. The latter welcomed the Prophet (Peace be upon him) and expressed faith in his Prophethood. The Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him), in the company of Gabriel (Jibraeel-alaiyhis salaam), then reached the fourth heaven where he met the Prophet (Idris (Peace be upon him)) and saluted him. Prophet Enoch (Peace be upon him) returned the salutation and expressed faith in his Prophethood.

Then he was carried to the fifth heaven where he met the Prophet Aaron (Harun (Peace be upon him)) and saluted him. The latter returned the salutation and expressed faith in his Prophethood. In the sixth heaven he met Moses (Musa (Peace be upon him)) and saluted him. The latter returned the salutation and expressed faith in his Prophethood. Then Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) reached the seventh heaven and met Abraham (Ibrahim) (Peace be upon him) and saluted him. The latter returned the salutation and expressed faith in his Prophethood. Then he was carried to Sidrat-alMuntaha (the remotest lote tree) and was shown AlBait-al-Ma‘mûr [(the much frequented house) which is like the Ka‘bah (Sacred House) encompassed daily by seventy thousand angels, so that the angels who once encompassed it would not have their turn again till the Resurrection]. He was then presented to the Divine Presence and experienced the thrill of witnessing the Divine Glory and Manifestation at the closest possible propinquity. There the Lord revealed unto His servant that which He revealed, and ordained fifty daily prayers for him. On his return, he spoke to Moses (Peace be upon him) that his followers had been enjoined to pray fifty times a day. Moses (Peace be upon him) addressing the Prophet (Peace be upon him) said: “Your followers cannot perform so many prayers.

Go back to your Lord and ask for a remission in number.” The Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) turned to Gabriel (Jibraeel-alaiyhis salaam) as if holding counsel with him. Gabriel (Jibraeel-alaiyhis salaam) nodded, “Yes, if you desire,” and ascended with him to the Presence of Allâh. The All-Mighty Allâh, Glory is to Him, made a reduction of ten prayers. He then descended and reported that to Moses

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(Peace be upon him), who again urged him to request for a further reduction. Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) once more begged his Lord to reduce the number still further. He went again and again in the Presence of Allâh at the suggestion of Moses-Musa (Peace be upon him) for reduction in the number of prayers till these were reduced to five only.

Moses-Musa (Peace be upon him) again asked him to implore for more reduction, but he said: “I feel ashamed now of repeatedly asking my Lord for reduction. I accept and resign to His Will.” When Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) went farther, a Caller was heard saying: “I have imposed My Ordinance and alleviated the burden of My servants.”

Some significant suggestive incidents featured in the ‘Night Journey’ of the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him), of which could be mentioned : The Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him)’s breast was cleft by Gabriel-Jibraeel (Peace be upon him), his heart extracted and washed with the water of Zamzam —a sacred spring in Makkah.

In the same context, there were brought to him two gold vessels. There was milk in one, while the other was full of wine. He was asked to choose either of them, so he selected the vessel containing milk and drank it.

He had the opportunity to see Malik, the guardian of Hell, with a cheerless frowning face. Therein, he saw the Hell dwellers, of whom were those who unjustly eat up the property of the orphans. They have flews similar to those of camels, swallowing red-hot stones and then issuing out of their backs. There were also the people who take usury with bellies too big to be able to move around; they are trodden by the people of Pharaoh when these are admitted into Hell. In the same abode, he saw the adulterers offered tasty fatty meat and rotten smelly one but they make option for the latter.

In Paradise, the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) saw some of the bounties Allah prepared for the inhabitants of Paradise. In short the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) was shown the different punishments meted out to the inmates of Jahannam (hell) and he was privileged to be shown the luxuries and pleasures of Jannah (heaven).

The ‘Night Journey’ raised a good deal of stir among the people and the sceptical audience plied Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) with all sorts of questions. He told them that he saw the camels of Makkan merchants to and fro. He also guided them to some of their animals that went astray. He informed them that he had drunk some of their water while they were fast asleep and left the container covered.

The Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) Returns to Makkah After all these matters took place with the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him), he returned to the city of Makkah. The next day the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) told the people what happened to him the previous night. The blasphemers belied the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) and mocked him, saying, “We need a month to get there and back, and you are claiming to have done all this in one night?” They said to Abu Bakr, “Look at what your companion is saying. He says he went to Jerusalem and came back in one night.” Abu Bakr(R.A.) told them, “If he said that, then he is truthful. I believe him concerning the news of the heavens—that an angel descends to him from the heavens.

How could I not believe he went to Jerusalem and came back in a short period of time—when these are on earth?” At that, the Companion, Abu Bakr (R.A.), was called “as-Siddiq”—because of how strongly he believed all what the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) said.

The blasphemous people questioned the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him): “If you are truthful, then describe to us Masjid Al-Aqsa and its surroundings.” They asked this because they knew Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) had never been there before the previous night.

Allah enabled the Messenger to see Masjid al-Aqsa, and he described the masjid and its surroundings in exact detail. Moreover, the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) said, “On my way back, I saw some of your shepherds grazing their animals in a particular location. They were searching for a camel they had lost.” The Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) continued by giving the description of the camel.

When these shepherds came back, they told their people what happened to them—precisely as the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) had already told them.

For the true devout Muslims, there is no difficulty in believing the miraculous Night Journey. The AllMighty Allâh, Who is Powerful enough to have created the heavens and the earth by an act of His Will, is surely Powerful enough to take His Messenger (Peace and blessings be upon him) beyond the heavens and show him those signs of His at firsthand which are inaccessible to man otherwise. The disbelievers on their part went to see Abu Bakr (R.A.) on account of this event, and he readily said: “Yes, I do verify it.” It was on this occasion that he earned the title of AsSiddiq (the verifier of the truth).

The most eloquent and most concise justification of this ‘Journey’ is expressed in Allâh’s Words: “... in order that We might show him (Muhammad) of Our Ayât (proofs, evidences, signs, etc.)” [17:1].

The Divine rules as regards the Prophets goes as follows: “Thus did We show Abraham the kingdom of the heavens and the earth that he be one of those who have Faith with certainty.” [6:75] To Moses-Musa (Peace be upon him), his Lord said: “That We may show you (some) of Our Greater Signs.” [20:23] In order that: “He be of those who have Faith with certainty.”

There are the simple facts that emanate from this blessed Journey, and flow along into the flowery garden of the Prophetic biography of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) that leave lessons manifest for mankind.

Some of the Things witnessed during Mi’raaj Hadrat Moosa (Alaihis salaam) performs Salaah in

his Grave It is related by Hadrat Anas (Radiallahu anhu) that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said, “On the night in which I was taken on the journey, I passed by Moosa (Alaihis salaam) and he was performing salaah in his grave.” (Sahih Muslim Pg.268 Vol.1) People Scraping their Chests with their Fingernails Anas (Radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said, “When I was taken up during the Me’raaj, I passed by people who had fingernails of copper and they were raking their own faces and chests with them. I asked Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) who they were and he replied that they were those who used to eat the flesh of others (i.e. slandered them) and attacked their reputations.” (Abu Dawood, in Mishkaat p.249) Angels Emphasize the Importance of Cupping Hadrat Abdullah bin Mas’ood (Radiallahu anhu) narrates: “Among the things described by Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) about the journey of Mi’raaj was that every group of Angels he passed by, urged him to instruct his ummah to practise cupping.”

(Mishkaatul Masaabih p.389 from Tirmizi and Ibn Maajah) In the past, the custom of cupping was very much in vogue among the Arabs. It is a way of letting out bad and excess blood from the body and a sovereign remedy for many diseases. People have abandoned having faith in this practice today. Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) used to have his head and the area between his shoulders cupped. (lbid) People’s Heads Crushed with Rocks Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) passed by another group of people whose heads were being crushed with boulders. After becoming smashed, their heads would again resume their original shape, only to be crushed again. This process would continue ceaselessly. When he asked jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) who they were, he replied that they were those people who were neglectful of their salaah. During the time of salaah, they would remain asleep.

The Despicable State of those who withhold their Zakaah Then he passed by another group of people whose private parts, from the front and behind, were wrapped in rags and they were grazing like camels and cattle.

They were eating Daree’ (a thorny plant of the fire of Jahannam) and Zaqqoom (a most bitter and foul smelling tree growing at the bottom of Jahannam) and the smouldering stones of Jahannam. Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) asked who these people were and Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) replied, “They are those who do not discharge the zakaah of their wealth.”

A Person Carrying a huge bundle of wood Then, Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) passed by a man who was struggling to carry a very large bundle of wood which he was unable to bear, yet he wanted to carry even more. When Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) asked who he was, Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) replied that this was the person who had been a trustee of people’s possessions, but he had failed to discharge the trust. And yet, he was eager and willing to take on more of the things of people in trust.

The Fragrance of Jannah Then Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) reached a valley from which a very beautiful fragrance emanated. The smell was of musk and it possessed a voice.

Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) asked, “What is this?” Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) replied that it is the voice of Jannah saying, “O My Lord! Bring to me those people who have been destined to stay in me, and fulfil your promise.”

A shaitaan Trails Them In the Muatta of Imaam Maalik (Rahmatullahi alaih), there is a Hadith narrated by Yahya bin Sa’eed, that on the night of Mi’raaj, Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) saw a rebellious jinn pursuing him with a flame of fire. Whenever he would turn (to the right or left), he would catch sight of this Jinn. Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) said, “Should I not teach you some words which, if recited, will extinguish this fire and cause him (the Jinn) to fall down on his face. Upon request of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) recited the following words: “Aoozu biwajhil laahil kareem wabi kaleematil laahittaam-maati-lati la-yu-jaa-wizu-hunna barrun wala-fajir. Wa-min sharri ma-yanzilu minas-samaa. Wa-sharri maa-ya’ruju fie-haa, Wa-sharri maa-dha-ra-a fil-ardi, Wa-sharri maa-yakh-ruju min-haa. Wa-min fita-nillayli wan-nahaar. Wa-min tawaa-ri-qil-layli wannahaar, illa taa-ri-qann yat-ruq bi-khair. Ya-Rahmaan.”

Salaams from Hazrat Ibrahim (alaiyhis salaam) to the Ummah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas’ud (Radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said, “On the night of Mi’raj, I met Hazrat Ibraheem (alaiyhis salaam) and he said to me, O Muhammad !

Convey my salaam to your Ummah and inform them that undoubtedly the soil of Jannah is pure, its water is sweet, its ground is barren and its plants are: “Subhanallahi walhamdulillahi wala ilaha illallaahu wallaahu akbar.”

TWO OTHER GIFTS BESIDES SALAAH On the night of Mi’raaj, apart from the gift of salaah and the promised reward of fifty salaah in lieu of five, among other bounties of Allah is the: Revelation of the last few verses of Surah Al Baqarah (i.e. from “ Aamanar-rasoolu bimaa un-zila ilayhi mir-rab-bihee walmu’-minoon....till the end).

Sins forgiven of the ummah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam): At the same time, it was also announced that the major sins of those in the ummah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) who do not ascribe partners with Allah will be forgiven. (Sahih Muslim p. 97 Vol. 1). This means that they will not suffer eternal punishment on account of their major sins, but will instead be pardoned either through tawba (sincere repentance) and istighfaar (seeking the forgiveness of Allah), or after first being punished for their sins. (An Nawawi).

What is the Buraaq and what were its features?

The name “Buraaq” is derived from the word “bareeq” which means “white “ in Arabic. According to another view, its origin lies in the word “barq “ which means “light”, the speed of which is well-known; hence the name Buraaq.

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From the narrations of Hadith, it is clear that before Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), other Prophets too had travelled upon it. For instance, Imaam Baihaqi relates in his Dalaa-ilun Nubuwwah (p.390 vol.2) that Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said: “Other Prophets used to ride on it before me.”

The Prancing of the Buraaq in excitement and the reason for it In the Sunan of Tirmizi, on the commentary of Surah Al lsraa, it is narrated that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said, “On the night of my journey, when the Buraaq was brought before me in a bridled and saddled state, it began to prance about. Jibraeel said to it, ‘How dare you prance before Muhammad? Nobody more honoured and beloved to Allah than Muhammad has ever ridden on your back before him.’ When it heard this, the Buraaq immediately began to perspire heavily (and became submissive).”

It is mentioned in Dalaa-ilun Nubuwwah that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said, “No sooner did the Buraaq begin to prance, Jibraeel twisted its ears and helped me mount it. (Dalaa-ilun Nubuwwah (p.355 vol.2)”. In some narrations, it is mentioned that when Nabi(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), reached Baitul Maqdis, Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) carved a hole in the wall with his fingers and tied the Buraaq around it.” (Ibn Katheer) The reason for the excitement of the Buraaq Some scholars believe that the Buraaq was excited because it was being used after a long time. Even during the period of Fatrah (i.e. the period in between the advent of Jesus-Eesa (Alaihis salaam) and Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) nobody had ridden upon it. It was now overjoyed at this newly-found privilege.

(Fathul Baari Pg.207 Vol.7). Other scholars believe it to be on account of its sense of pride and ecstasy at the prospect of being honoured with the Last and the Noblest of all Prophets (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam).

This was similar to the occasion when Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), accompanied by Hadrat Abu Bakr, Hadrat Umar and Hadrat Usmaan (Radiallahu anhum) were on Mount Thabeer when it began to shudder. “Be still!” he ordered the mountain, ‘for standing upon you is a Nabi, a Siddeeq, and two Martyrs.” (Mishkaat p.562 from Tirmizi and Nasaee) Certainly it is within the power of Allah Ta’ala to have transported Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) without the agency of the Buraaq. But He did so purely in order to honour and exalt him. Since travelling without a vehicle would have obviously meant that the journey would have had to be undertaken on foot, and travelling in a vehicle is far more dignified, Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) was taken by means of a conveyance.” (Fathul Baari Pg.206 Vol.7).

To Baitul Maqdis on the Buraaq and up to the heavens by a ladder When Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) left Makkah for Baitul Maqdis, Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) accompanied him on the back of the Buraaq. He sat in the front, as a guide, and seated Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) behind him..(Fathul Baari Pg.208 Vol.7). Like this, they travelled on the Buraaq until they reached Baitul Maqdis and performed two rakaat salaah each there. Then Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) led the Ambiyaa (Alaihimus salaam) in salaah.

When Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) set out for the heavens, a ladder of extraordinary beauty was lowered before him. According to some narrations, one ladder was of gold, and another of silver, while another narration adds that they were also studded with pearls. As they journeyed upwards by the ladder, Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) was escorted on his right and left by a procession of angels until they arrived in the heavens and had the doors opened there.

BAABUL HAFAZAH (The Gate of the Guardians) It has been recorded that the gate to the first heaven is called Baabul Hafazah and that an angel named Ismaeel has been appointed over it. This angel has twelve thousand angels under his charge and each one of these angels in turn has another twelve thousand angels under his command. After mentioning this, Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) recited the following verse: “And nobody knows the armies of your Lord except He.” (Qur’an 74:31) - (Fathul Baari Pg.207-208 Vol.8- Seerah ibn Hisham).

Meeting the keeper of Jahannam in the first heaven and seeing Jahannam When Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), entered the closest sky, every angel he met there, greeted him with great joy, and prayed (dua) for his well-being.

However, there was one angel among them, who, despite meeting Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) and making dua for him, did not smile. When he asked Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) who this angel was, he replied, “This is Maalik, the keeper of Jahannam. If he were ever to smile at anyone before or after you, he would certainly have smiled when meeting you. But (truly) he does not smile.”

What is the Sidratul Muntahaa?

In the narrations of Hadith, the names Sidratul Muntahaa and As- Sidratul Muntahaa in both the forms have appeared while in the Qur’an Majeed, it is described only as Sidratul Muntahaa. The word “Sidrah “ in Arabic means “a lote tree “, while “AlMuntahaa “ denotes “furthest” or “a place of ending”.

Why was this name given to the tree?

In Sahih Muslim it is recorded that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said: “Every order of Allah that descends from above, comes to an end there, and every deed of man which rises from the earth towards the heavens, comes to a halt at this point. “In other words, whenever an order of Allah is issued, it first stops there before descending upon the earth, and the deeds of man from below first stop there and are then lifted above.

It has already been mentioned that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said that it was adorned with objects of such resplendent beauty that none of the creation of Allah Ta’ala is able to describe its absolute elegance and splendour. Another Hadith, describes that it was bedecked with golden moths. (Sahih Muslim Vol.1). Concerning this tree, it has also been mentioned in the Hadith that it is so huge that a rider could ride for up to hundred years under the shade of its branches, or that a hundred horsemen are able to roam under its shade. (Mishkaat p. 498) Continued page 29

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The Month of Rajab and Merajun Nabi Continued from page 28 ENTERING JANNAH AND BEHOLDING THE RIVER OF KAUSAR Hadrat Anas bin Maalik (Radiallahu anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said, “While walking in Jannah, I suddenly found myself along a river. On both its banks were domes of pearls that were empty in the centre (i.e. the whole dome consisted of just one pearl). I asked Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) what this was and he replied that it was the river of Kausar which Allah has bestowed upon me. When I took a closer look at it, I noticed that the soil (beneath the water), was an immensely fragrant musk.” (Sahih Bukhaari) THE PURE HEART OF NABI (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) WASHED WITH ZAM ZAM IN A GOLDEN TRAY In the Ahaadith on the incident of Mi’raaj, it has also been recorded that the blessed chest of Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) was opened, and his heart removed and washed in the water of Zam Zam, and then replaced and restored to its original condition. In today’s modern, scientific age, when the practice of surgery has become an ordinary everyday occurrence, this is not at all difficult to believe. And since Zam Zam was used to wash the noble heart of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), we can clearly understand the merit and excellence of this water. The Hadith also mentions that the heart of Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) was filled with Imaan, and Hikmah (wisdom). What this means, is that the overwhelming power of Imaan in Rasullullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) and the wisdom in his heart was reinforced and enhanced in order to fortify him with strength and power required for his magnificent journey into the heavens.

Some Lessons from Mi’raaj - Synopsis Sublime Position of Salaah: The greatest gift given on this miraculous journey on Mi’raj was the gift of salaah. The importance of this great gift is evident by the fact that the Prophet (sallallahu alaiyh wassallam) was called personally to the heavens and beyond to receive this injunction, whereas most other injunctions were given on earth via Jibraeel (alaiyhis salaam). Moreover, the fact that Jibraeel (alaiyhis salaam) descended the very next day after Mi’raj to teach Nabi (sallallahu alaiyh wassallam) the finer points of the method of salaah, highlights its importance.

Neglect of Salaah: During Mi’raj, Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) passed by a group of people whose heads were being crushed with boulders.

After becoming smashed, their heads would again resume their original shape, only to be crushed again. This process would continue ceaselessly.

When he asked Jibraeel (Alaihis salaam) who they were, he replied that they were those people who were neglectful of their salaah. During the time of salaah, they would remain asleep.

Salaah with congregation: We notice that Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) performed salaah in congregation with all the Ambiya in Masjidul-Aqsa.

This also illustrates the importance of salaah in congregation. Besides the warnings on discarding salaah with the congregation, many virtues have also been mentioned for observing salaat with congregation. Abdullah bin Umar (radhiallaha anhu) reports that Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said,” Salaah performed in congregation exceeds the salaah performed individually(in reward) by twenty five times.” (Sahih Bukhari Vol.1) Zamzam Water: In the incident of Mi’raaj, it has also been recorded that the blessed chest of Nabi (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) was opened, and his heart removed and washed in the water of Zam Zam, and then replaced and restored to its original condition. In today’s modern, scientific age, when the practice of surgery has become an ordinary everyday occurrence, this is not at all difficult to believe. And since no other water was used, but the Blessed water of Zam Zam was used to wash the noble heart of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), we can clearly understand the merit and excellence of this water.

Importance of Masjidul Aqsa in Islam: The fact that Rasulullah(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) was taken to this Glorified Masjid and not to any other Masjid to perform salaah and lead the Ambiyaa, illustrates the pivotal role it plays in the life of a Muslim. In a hadith narrated by Hazrat Anas(R.A.): Rasullullah(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) has said that “the reward for salaah in his Masjid (Masjidun Nabawi) and in that of Masjidul Aqsa is of 10 000

prayers, but the reward of salaah in the kaaba is equal to a 100 000 prayers.” (Ibn Majah) Some Meritorious recitations given during Mi’raj: Revelation of the last few verses of Surah Al Baqarah (i.e. from “ Aa-manar-rasoolu bimaa unzila ilayhi mir-rab-bihee wal-mu’-minoon....till the end).

Increase recitation of 3 rd Kalimah: Rasullullah(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said, “On the night of Mi’raj, I met Hazrat Ibraheem(alaiyhis salaam) and he said to me, O Muhammad ! Convey my salaam to your Ummah and inform them that undoubtedly the soil of Jannah is pure, its water is sweet, its ground is barren and its plants are: “Subhanallahi walhamdulillahi wala ilaha illallaahu wallaahu akbar.”

Admonitions and Punishments witnessed during Mi’raj: During this journey Rasulullah(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) was shown the different punishments meted out to those who transgressed and were dis-obedient. These experiences serve as a warning to the Ummah to refrain from dis-obedience and those actions that displease Allah Subhana Wata’ala.

Refrain from Slandering: Punishment for this is “people who had fingernails of copper and they were raking their own faces and chests with them.”

Refrain from fornication and adultery: Punishment for this is: “These people were eating the decayed meat and leaving the cooked meat untouched.”

Refrain from Abusing peoples trust: Punishment for this is: “A man who was struggling to carry a very large bundle of wood which he was unable to bear, yet he wanted to carry even more.”

Refrain from withholding Zakaat: Punishment for this is: “They were eating Daree’ (a thorny plant of the fire of Jahannam) and Zaqqoom (a most bitter and foul smelling tree growing at the bottom of Jahannam) and the smouldering stones of Jahannam.”

In short all these punishments were shown to Rasulullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) so that he may warn mankind to abandon sin and transgression and encourage mankind to obedience and goodness. It is through His Divine Mercy that Allah Ta’ala has shown these incidents to mankind, so that one has the opportunity, now in this world to mend one’s ways before it is too late.

To believe and practice un-conditionally as Hazrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) did: It was belief that distinguished Abu Bakr as-Siddiq and placed him in a rank never to be equalled or surpassed by any of the companions or those who would come after them.

Abu Bakr (R.A.) was known by the nickname ‘asSiddiq (the believer)’ more than his real name. He gained that nickname because he immediately and unconditionally believed in what the prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said about his journey to the heavens. Abu Bakr (R.A.) had based his Imaan on his belief and practiced accordingly; Abu Bakr (R.A.)’s belief is that the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) is the Informer. His practice of that was based upon the fact that Allah is the Legislator. Allah Ta’ala says, ‘The Messenger believes in what has been revealed to him from His Lord, and (so do) the believers. Each one believes in Allah, His Angels, His Books and His Messengers. (They say), ‘We make no distinction between one another of His Messengers’ and they say, ‘We hear, and we obey. (We seek) Your forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the return (of all).’

(2:285) The lesson for us, the Muslims, is that if it is in the Qur’an or reported authentically as a Sunnah, then we should believe in it, and act upon it.

In Summary: The Sahaba (radhiallahu anhum), however fully appreciated the gift of Mi’raj. They would never forego any salaah without any valid excuse to such an extent that a person who could not walk to the Masjid would be carried by two Sahaba and brought to the Masjid to perform salaah in congregation.

Furthermore, we learn from the incident of Mi’raj, the importance of us strictly refraining from all vices and sins.

We also understand, that from the incidents narrated, that the successful believer will attain Jannah and all descriptions of Janna have been shown to our beloved Rasullullah (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) as an encouragement for the righteous.

This is what the Sahaba have preserved regarding Mi’raj. This is what they practiced upon and propagated to others. Hence it is imperative that we take heed of these aspects and act accordingly.

Why so much suffering??

Continued from last issue

By ML Nawaaz Ashrafi Behold, Alláh and his angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O you who believe! Ask for blessings on him, and salute him with a worthy greeting.

O Alláh! Send your greetings upon Muhammad and his family, just as you sent your greetings on Abraham, and his family. O Alláh, send your blessings on Muhammad and his family, just as you blessed Abraham and his family. In both worlds, you are praiseworthy and exalted.”

“All glory is for Allah, and all praise is for Allah; There is no power and no strength except with Allah.”

Let us not be fooled by atheists with their cleversounding arguments. Some are mere publicity seekers, Some are genuinely lost. Ignore the ignorant show-offs. Only give your time and Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

attention to those who sincerely seek answers to life’s big questions: Why are we here? Where have we come from? Where do we go to after we die? In dealing with such topics, Always ask for Allah’s help: “Rabbi zidni ‘’ilma,” “O my Lord, grant me knowledge.”

“Rabbish rahli sadri wa yasirli amri wa ahlul uqdatum mil lisani yafqahu qauli” “O My Lord, open my chest [with wisdom], make my task easy for me and remove the knot from my tongue so that they may understand me.”

This was the prayer of Prophet Moses (as), when he went to address Pharaoh.

Let us through a deeper understanding of our faith become like those whom Allah refers to as yatafak-karoon, ‘people who contemplate,’ people who reflect, people who understand.

We ask Allah to send down on us His divine wisdom, His Hikma, so that we can have a light to illuminate our way through the confusion in the

Varna-ashram System in Hinduism

By Awadhesh Sharma TRADITIONAL Hindu system organised the society according to the profession and stage of life of a person. The term Varna indicated the profession of the person and Ashram specified the stage of life.

The original four Varnas were Brahmins, Ksatriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras.

Brahmins performed teaching, religious rituals and lead the community on spiritual matters.

Kshatriyas were protectors of the society and as a warrior protected the population from external attacks and internal disturbances.

Vaishyas were traders, farmers, herdsmen and craftsmen. They produced wealth that sustained the community.

Sudras were service provider to all other groups of people. Their input was essential to deliver the outcome that the people of other Varnas were supposed to deliver.

The earliest reference to four Varnas is found in the Purush Sukta mantras of the Rigveda. Varna system is also referred in other scriptures such as the Shreemad Bhagawad Gita and Ramayana. The Dharma Sutras and Dharma Shastra enforced the system rigorously. Effects of their enforcement are felt in daily life of Hindu community even now.

In principle the Varna system was a division of labour. Persons choose their professions according to their specific attributes and performed their duties that they were capable to perform.

The system was not essentially hereditary although it was easy for a person to master the skills of his family and continue the profession that the family performed.

With the passing of time the four Varnas were subdivided in many subgroups. Also the system became so rigid that a person born in a specific Varna remains in that Varna throughout his life irrespective of his interest and ability to perform the duty of that Varna.

The Varna system of the old deteriorated to the current caste system in Hinduism.

The number of castes also increased with the increase in professions.

Social reformers of the Hindu community denounce the caste system. However, different interest groups continue to use caste system for their benefit on social, political and official levels in India.

The most obvious use of caste system is observed in matrimonial alliances.

Marriages are mostly arranged in the same caste in India, although this practice is becoming out-dated among Hindus overseas.

In rural India the caste system remains very strong. People who benefit from it in terms of social status continue to resist any changes in the existing rigid caste system. However, the effects of globalisation of economy, technical progress and modern government system are acting against the existence of the rigid caste system. world out there. O Allah help us and all our future generations to learn, to know and love Your beautiful Way of Islam. Let us all hold fast to the rope that Allah extends for us. Let us all become a good example for others.

O Allah, let us become a justly balanced community, ummatan wasatan, and let each one of us become a witness to the nations [Quran 2:143] Rabbana taqabbal minna innaka antas Sameeaul Aleem Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us: For You are the All-Hearing, the All-knowing Rabbana Hablana min azwaajina wadhurriyyatina, qurrata ‘ayioni wa-jalna lil-muttaqeena Imaama O my Lord! Grant unto us wives and offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and give us (the grace) to lead the righteous [25:74] Rabbana-ghfir lana wa li ‘ikhwani nalladhina sabaquna bil imani wa la taj’al fi qulubina ghillal-lilladhina amanu Our Lord! Forgive us, and all those who came before us into the Faith, and leave not, in our hearts, any rancour (or sense of injury) against those who have believed.

Rabbana innaka Ra’ufur Rahim

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Ashram relates to the stage of life. The life of a person assumed to be of 100 years is divided into four stages, each of equal duration. The four stages of life are known Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vaanprastha and Sanyasa.

During the Brahmacharya stage the person as a student goes to Gurukul, teacher’s place, lives there and studies.

He has to abide by certain rules and perform certain duties expected of him for this stage of life. During his stay at Gurukul the student gains skills that enable him to perform his duties of his Varna in his later life.

After completion of Brahmacharya ashram, the person returns back to his home, gets married and establishes his own family. This stage of one’s life is called Grihastha or householder ashram.

Grihastha ashram is considered the most important ashram, as the people of all other ashrams are dependant on the persons of Grihastha ashram for their sustenance. As a family man he discharges his responsibilities of a family person, maintains his wife, children, siblings and also people of other ashrams.

Vaanprastha ashram is the stage, which starts after a person, has completed his householder stage and is free to contribute to the community. He devotes his time and energy for welfare of the community. His contribution is free from greed and vested interest. He lives away from his family considering the whole community as his family.

The last stage of the life is the Sanyasa ashram. The person devotes his time and energy for spiritual realisation without any attachment to worldly affairs in this stage.

In modern age the number of people adhering to the strictly devised ashram system is not very large. The spiritual teachers of various denominations are expected to follow the ashram system.

Generally spiritual teachers move directly from Brahmacharya ashram to Vaanprastha or Sanyasa bypassing the Grihastha stage.

The ashram system for general Hindu population has become out-dated.

Induction to Brahmacharya ashram is limited to the Yagyopavit Sanskar, when sacred thread ceremony is performed for a young child.

Grihastha ashram starts with the wedding ceremony when husband and wife start a new family.

Vaanprastha ashram and Sanyasa ashram are limited to spiritually inclined religious persons, generally actively attached to a religious sect.

Both Varna and Ashram systems have lived their lives and are considered not applicable in modern age. However they have played significant roles in structuring Hindu community and its religious practices.

More information on Hinduism will follow in the next edition of BIT. Awadhesh Sharma Our Lord! You are indeed Full of Kindness, Most Merciful.

Rabbana ‘alayka tawakkalna wa-ilayka anabna wa-ilaykal masir Our Lord! You alone do we trust, and to You alone do we turn in repentance: to You is (our) Final Goal!

InnaAllaha, Yamuru bil adel, wal ihsaan, wa eetaa-i zil qurba; wa yanha anil fuhshaa-i, wal munkari walbaghi; ya-idzukhum lallakum tathakkaroon. (Sura 16:90), “Surely Allah commands justice, good deeds and generosity to others and to relatives; and He forbids all shameful deeds, and injustice and rebellion: He instructs you, so that you may be reminded.”

Fadth kuroonee adth kurkum, wash kuroolee walaa tak furoon [2:152]. “and remember Me: I will remember you. Be grateful to Me, and do not reject faith.” wala thikrul-Laahi akbar, Wal-Laahu ya’lamu maa tasna’oon.” [29:45]. “and without doubt, Remembrance of Allah is the Greatest Thing in life, and Allah knows the deeds that you do.”

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 29

Natural remedy for Migraine

By Mazhar Sayeed Continued from last issue THERE are about sixteen (16) treatments, this month we continue with treatments.

Read ‘Symptoms’ carefully for each one of the following and if it suits/nearer to your problems, then choose to follow it.

For Migraine Cure - Treatment No. 4 Migraine is a common type of headache that may occur with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light. In many people, a throbbing pain is felt only on one side of the head.

Causes: *Allergic reactions *Bright lights *Certain odors or perfumes *Changes in sleep patterns *Exercise *Loud noises *Missed meals *Physical or emotional stress *Smoking or exposure to smoke * Symptoms: A temporary blind spot, blurred vision, eye pain, seeing stars or zigzag lines, tunnel vision, are worse on one side of the head.

Diagnosis: Avoid artificial sweeteners and other known food-related triggers.

Get regular exercise. Get plenty of sleep each night. Learn to relax and reduce stress — some patients have found that biofeedback and self-hypnosis helps reduce the number of migraine attacks. Avoid smoking.

Ingredients: Lemon peel Natural Remedies: Lemon Peel is highly nutritional and loaded with important minerals and vitamins (especially ascorbic acid/vitamin C) that are beneficial in cases of vitamin deficiency, such as scurvy, etc., • Lemon is a citrus fruit and fight against infection. It is a anti oxidant which deactivates free radicals. Lemon juice is about 5% to 6% (approximately 0.3 M) citric acid, which gives lemons a sour taste and a pH of 2–3.

Make a dry powder of lemon peel. Take some powder, mix with water. Then apply on your forehead.

For Migraine Cure – Treatment No. 5 Causes: Migraines As listed above (No. 4) Symptoms: As listed above (No. 4) Diagnosis: As listed above (No. 4) Ingredients: Almond

Natural Remedies: • Almonds contain approximately 49% oils, of which 62% is monounsaturated oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid), 24% is linoleic acid (a polyunsaturated omega-6 essential fatty acid), and 6% is palmitic acid (a saturated fatty acid).

• Almonds are rich in the vitamins and minerals that help build a healthy heart, especially vitamin E. And these little nutrient nuggets are cholesterol free.

For Migraine Cure – Treatment No. 6

If we apply “strychnos nux-vomica leaves, garlic, long pepper and gingelly oil” then the migraine problem will be reduced.

Symptoms: Severe headache Ingredients: Strychnos nux-vomica leaves, Garlic, long pepper, Gingelly oil Procedure to prepare: Strychnos nuxvomica leaves,garlic,long pepper and gingelly oil salt have the capacity to cure the migraine problem, so if you take a cup strychnos nux-vomica leaves, 4 or 5 piece of garlic, ½ teaspoon of long pepper powder and 200ml of gingelly oil, first you fry all the things in gingelly oil ,after that you filter the fried oil and apply it on your head and take bath.

For Migraine Cure – Treatment No. 7

If we apply the “amaranthus polygonoides, black pepper, turmeric with gingelly oil” then migraine will be cured.

Symptoms: Pain on head, migraine Ingredients: Amaranthus polygonoides, black pepper, turmeric, Gingelly oil Procedure to prepare: Boil the amaranthus polygonoides, black pepper, turmeric with gingelly oil.

For Migraine Cure – Treatment No. 8 If we apply the “black pepper, garlic with gingelly oil” then migraine will be cured.

Symptoms: Pain on head, migraine Ingredients: Black pepper, garlic, Gingelly oil Procedure to prepare: Boil the black pepper, garlic with gingelly oil. Apply on head Continued next issue….

ARYA PRATINIDHI SABHA OF QLD INC

Why Veda alone?

Jitendra Deo President

Continued from last issue ACCORDING to Indian traditions, based on astronomical data, the Vedas were revealed 1,97,29,490,95 (1995 A.D.) years ago.

The calculation, corroborated by the ‘Samkalpa’ almost invariably read out by our priests at the commencement of every Yajna. Works on modern science almost corroborate this oriental view about the age of the earth. Compare the following: a. Some good evidence that the real age of the earth is 2 or 3 thousand million years, has been arrived at by the study of uranium and an isotope lead (into which it irretriev-

ably changes) in the layers of rocks. b. Recent archaeological discoveries have carried the origin of man to millions of years back. And the Vedic research, as it advances, carries the antiquity of the Vedas ever further and yet further in the past.

Latest theories tend to affirm that the Vedas are not only the oldest record of humanity but co-eva! With man. c. The weight of scientific evidence is all against an infinitely, expended past, but the past which we formerly reckoned as six thousand years cannot be shorter than 1800 million years, and may be far longer. d. In the “Outline of Modern Knowledge’

by William Rose we read: “Our globe must be about two thousand million years old.” e. H.G. Wells (An Outline of History) said: “Astronomers and mathematicians give us 200 million years as the age of the earth as a body separate from the Sun.” It is regrettable that, ignoring all this latest scientific evidence corroborating the age of the earth and man inhabiting it, our teachers

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

The Grace...

DEAR Brisbane Indian Times readers, in this article let us explore the meaning of the word ‘Grace’.

What is Grace?

Where can you find Grace?

How can you receive grace?

These three questions look simple, but they are significant for helping you live a life that is inspired and purpose filled.

The general dictionary grace means, elegance or beauty of a form, pleasing or attractive quality, favor or good will. This explanation does not really justify the true meaning of ‘Grace’. It is like showing a thirsty person photo of chilled glass water; it fails to meet the thirst of a weary soul.

To find the true meaning of ‘Grace’ we need to look beyond our limited human wisdom. We need to look to the story of a prodigal son (lost son) in the book of Luke 15th chapter (Message version).

Then Jesus said, “There was once a man who had two sons. The younger said to his father, ‘Father, I want right now what’s coming to me.’

“So the father divided the property between them. It wasn’t long before the younger son packed his bags and left for a distant country. There, undisciplined and dissipated, he wasted everything he had.

After he had gone through all his money, there was a bad famine all through that country and he began to hurt. He signed on with a citizen there who assigned him to his fields to slop the pigs. He was so hungry he would have eaten the corncobs in the pig slop, but no one would give him any.

“That brought him to his senses. He said,

‘All those farmhands working for my father sit down to three meals a day, and here I am starving to death. I’m going back to my father. I’ll say to him, Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son. Take me on as a hired hand.’ He got right up and went home to his father.

“When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: ‘Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son ever again.’

“But the father wasn’t listening. He was calling to the servants, ‘Quick. Bring a clean set of clothes and dress him. Put the family ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then get a grain-fed heifer and roast it.

We’re going to feast! We’re going to have a wonderful time! My son is here—given up for dead and now alive! Given up for lost and now found!’ And they began to have a wonderful time.

The lost son did not expect such an extraordinary undeserved favor from his father.

The lost son experienced the true grace; this is the true nature of father God. He let people receive the free gift of ‘Grace’ when they turn to God with heart of repentance.

Jesus paid the price for our wrongs on Good Friday, and He rose to life on Sunday morning to grant us Grace.

A teacher once explained grace to me with this acronym: God’s Riches At Christ's Expense.

So, today begin to receive the ‘Grace’ by the inspiration God’s love in the name of Jesus.

Are you hungry for more inspiration?

Please write to us by email: navig8grace@gmail.com

Handling the right way DEAR reader, it is with and companion to King David. But great joy we bring you the he joined Absalom, David’s son word of God. Regardless of when he decided to oust his father who we are, where we come from the throne. Why? It is likely from, we all have unfair that Bathsheba, the young women things happen to us. The David took advantage of was choice is ours whether we Pastor Joseph Dass Ahithophel’s granddaughter. If so hold on to the hurt, become he had a right to be angry with the sour, resentful, bitter and king. Vengeful feelings grew angry or we can decide to let it go and trust strong in him so when the opportunity came God to come through for us. We have to he rushed to Absalom and told him how to learn the right way of handling unforgive- take over the throne. Absalom, though ness. rejected his counsel. In despair Ahithophel Sometimes we hear people say how they committed suicide. have been betrayed by a friend, hurt by It could have been so different. If only their spouse, let down by the people they Ahithophel had talked to God about his trusted and caused them so much pain. Now anger and then spoken to David. He would it has become so hard and they can’t let it have heard of the Kings repentance and sorgo. row over his sin. He could have forgiven What you have to recognize is that you David and remained his friend. He could don’t forgive for their benefit and wellbeing have shown us how to handle anger, pain but for your own wellbeing and profit. and hurts in life.

When you forgive, you are removing their We all face the moment where we have to ability to hurt you. forgive someone. When we do, we let go of But if you hold on to that hurt and stay what has happened and move on to embrace angry, you are only poisoning your own what is ahead. life.

In the Bible we read about a man named God bless you, Ahithophel. He had been a close advisor Pastor Joseph Dass and leaders still continue to persist in their old, wrong and damaging views about their ancient and glorious heritage.

The Four Vedas - The Vedas have been traditionally four from the very beginning.

The whole of Sanskrit (Vedic as well as classical) literature proclaims with own voice that the Vedas are four and names them all separately. Western scholars like Bloomfield’s, misled perhaps by the popular phrase ‘Trayi-Vidya’ hold the view that Atharva Veda was a later addition, as it was composed much later than the other three.

The Rigveda is admittedly the oldest book in the library of the world. If the Atharva Veda were a later production, how could it be included in the Rigveda which was an earlier production’? The fact is that the expression ‘Trayi’ actually denotes Veda’s subjects put forth in three different styles Viz. Knowledge, action and devotion, offered respectively in poetry, style and

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song.

The Rigveda deals with theories and experiments, while the process of preparing reagents and apparatus is recorded in the Yajurveda. Yajna is a Vedic expression for what we call experimentation. The directions, that the Mantras embody are, therefore, such as will enable us to perform scientific experiments which, when accomplished, communicate to us knowledge of the Laws of Nature. The Atharva Veda is also popularly known as Bhasajya Veda, as it mainly deals with the science of medicine. Deliberation of magic, witchcraft etc. in the Atharva Veda is misnomer-humbug.

(Continued in next issue) Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or log on: www.aryasamajqueensland.com Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Health Beauty Wellbeing How to look after your Kids and bats can't skin and hair in winter be friends Courtesy Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty - 04 123 500 13

HEY Girls, cold winter air can create havoc for your poor skin and hair. Here are some tips for looking after yourself during the upcoming coldest season of the year. This will not only keep you looking good now, but will prevent your skin from aging prematurely. To follow these steps it will take only few minutes.

Step 1. Wrap up from head to toe. Invest in a warm pair of gloves to protect your hands and prevent the skin on them from becoming dry and flaky. Waterproof ones are recommended if you are going out as they don’t soak your hands when you come across occasional rain. Don’t forget to wear a hat as they help protect your hair from drying out and they keep your head nice and warm.

Too much exposure to cold, harsh weather can leave hair brittle and dry making it more susceptible to damage. As well as this, wear a scarf when possible to protect the skin on your neck and chest.

Step 2. At home, keep warm but not hot. If the temperature inside is much hotter than outside it can irritate your skin and can even cause broken capillaries from the temperature shock when you get home or when you go out. While walking around at home wear slippers or warm socks to prevent getting cold feet which can cause chilblains, which cause your toes to swell, the skin to become sore and sometimes causes permanent disfigurement.

The same applies for when you are washing. Having a hot shower or bath can cause skin irritation if the weather is cold. As well as this it strips the natural moisture out of the skin and hair, so turn the temperature down from hot to warm.

Step 3. Adapt your hair care to the weather changes. There are plenty of shampoos that help your hair be strong and healthy during winter.

Hair goes dry, weak and brittle during winter, but if you give it the right treatment you’ll avoid it becoming a big issue.

Look for shampoos and conditioners which aim to protect and heal your hair, making sure it’s slightly more moisturizing than

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

what you use normally.

Also, it may be a good idea to try a moisturising hair treatment once or twice a fortnight to help repair the effects of winter.

Step 4. Skin becomes drier in cold weather, especially if it’s windy, because the moisture off the skin is evaporated more quickly by the wind, and the skin doesn’t produce as much oil. Try using a slightly heavier moisturizer than you use in the summer, although still make sure that it’s suitable for your skin type.

Make sure you moisturize every morning, especially if you are going outside, to prevent your skin from becoming dry and flaky. Then at night, before going to bed, wash your face to remove make up and pollutants which could irritate your skin and apply moisturizer to treat your skin while you sleep. A couple of times a week you should use a gentle exfoliater to scrub away dry skin which can become an issue in cold weather.

As well as looking after the skin on your face, don’t forget to use a body butter on the skin on your body to prevent that skin from drying out. It doesn’t need quite as much attention as the skin on your face as it’s not often exposed, but it will still need more care than it gets in the warmer months.

Step 5. Give your lips extra attention to avoid them becoming chapped and splitting. Apply a moisturizing lip balm when you are doing the rest of your skin care, make it part of your routine. As well as this, before you go outside apply some Castor Oil/petroleum jelly to your lips as this creates a protective barrier between the cold air and your lips, locking in moisture.

Step 6. Apply a good hand cream daily and whenever needed. To keep the skin soft and comfortable, massage hand moisturizer into your hands in the morning and evening, as well as every time you wash your hand. If your hands are extremely dry, apply a suitable moisturizer at night and then wear light cotton gloves which are available for wearing at night to keep the moisture on them.

Step 7. Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Eating a healthy diet full of nutrients and vitamins is the best way to keep your hair and skin from looking and feeling healthy. It is simple but effective.

Enjoy your time. I will see you next month.

See you next month...Nimisha

BATS and flying foxes can carry bacteria and viruses which can be harmful to humans.

The best protection against being exposed to the virus is to avoid handling bats or flying foxes.

Queensland Health advises that it is especially important to tell young children who may accidentally, or due to curiosity, disturb an injured bat or flying fox, causing it to scratch or bite them.

Educate children to stay away from bats and flying foxes and to tell an adult immediately if they see or touch a bat.

Teach children that it is very important to let a grown up know because they could become very sick if a bat bites or scratches them.

Know the steps to take if a child, or anyone, does come into contact with a bat or flying fox.

1. If you see a bat or flying fox that’s hurt, don’t touch the bat. Contact: • RSPCA—1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) or • Department of Environment and Heritage Protection—1300 130 372 or • Your local wildlife care group / rescuer / carer for assistance.

2. Take the child to see a doctor for treat-

• Educate kids to stay away from bats and flying foxes.

ment.

3. Ring your local Public Health Unit or ask your doctor to ring them for you. Public Health will provide advice and organise treatments as necessary.

To help educate kids on the importance of staying away from bats, and what to do if they see one injured, download and print the Kids and bats can’t be friends poster (PDF 695kB) from www.health.qld.gov./au/news. It’s been written for primary school-aged children and includes a colouring-in section. health.qld.gov

Poisoning prevention the 'best medicine' MEDICINES used to relieve the symptoms of coughs and colds are among the most common cause of poisonings in children.

Queensland Poisons Information Centre Manager Carol Wylie said nearly all childhood poisonings take place at home, so prevention is the key to avoiding injury.

“Prevention really is the ‘best medicine’ when it comes to keeping little people safe from poisoning,” Ms Wylie said.

“Children under five years old are at the greatest risk of poisoning, with poisoning one of the top three reasons children in this age group are seen at emergency departments or hospitalised.

“The safest thing you can do is store all medicines (and household cleaning products and chemicals) out of reach of children, in a locked or child-resistant cupboard.”

Ms Wylie said any parent or carer who thinks a child may have been poisoned should call the Queensland Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 immediately, rather than wait for symptoms to occur.

“All calls to the Queensland Poisons Information Centre are answered by phar-

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macists specially trained in toxicology and the provision of poisons information,” she said.

“Staff will provide first aid advice and can determine whether medical attention is required, as well as offer relevant poisoning prevention information.”

Common causes of poisoning found in and around the home, include (but are not limited to): • Medicines—prescription medicines, overthe-counter medicines, vaporiser fluids, herbal and homoeopathic products.

• Household and garage shed/ workshop items—batteries, cleaning products, detergents, pesticide sprays and baits, including rat baits, health and beauty products, , and pool chemicals and fuel.

• Animals—snakes, spiders, insects and cane toads.

• Plants— both indoor and outdoor, commonly berries or flowers.

For further information on poisoning first aid, visit www.health.qld.gov.au/ poisonsinformationcentre/default.asp If a child has collapsed or is not breathing, call 000 immediately for an ambulance.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 - 31

Holi’s festival of colours creates a glittering celebration in India

By Rama Gaind

AN unforgettable time to visit India is during a festival — and Holi (also called holika or phagwa) — is one of the country’s most glittering celebrations when streets throughout the nation are transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour.

The annual festival — held this year on 6 March — celebrated spring and commemorated var• A kaleidoscope of colour is what transevents in forms a nation during the holi festival in ious Hindu mythology. It India. is also a time to disregard social norms and indulge in general merrymaking.

Thousands of people, dressed in white, come together in every corner of the country, onto the streets to share in dance, music, family celebration, get-togethers and visual stimulation. This was an unforgettable experience in the capital of New Delhi, which was a dazzling display of colour and good cheer.

Holi is an ancient Hindu religious festival, known as the ‘festival of colours’ or the festival of love. It is also said to signify the victory of good over evil.

The festival is all about partying and enjoyment. It begins with a holika bonfire the night before where people gather to sing and dance.

Revellers hurl brightly coloured, perfumed powders and water at one another and anyone is considered fair game regardless of gender, caste, class or age.

Astrology Aries - March 21 - April 20 Ganesha predicts that the cosmos will favour you this month. Nonetheless, the onus shall lie on you, and you shall have to work hard to get real success. If you are a freelancer, you may find deadlines hard to meet, but again, if you work dedicatedly, you will manage well. Avoid taking stress, even if seniors overload you with work, or the situation may adversely affect your efficiency. You may have to do some multi-tasking, but do so with a cool head. If you are a businessperson, this is a perfect time to plan, travel, explore and indulge in activities related to sales and services. With two fiery planets, Sun and Mars posited in the 2nd House, related to speech and money, from your Sign, you will need to be extra careful with finances and communication, especially during the first week of the month. Avoid using words that may hurt your colleagues or near and dear ones. On the financial front, avoid splurging, and if some extra money comes your way, put it straight-away into a secure deposit.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22 The month's beginning may seem challenging to you, but Ganesha assures you that by the end of the month, you shall succeed in your objectives and achieve your goals. This is bound to make you and your family members happy. However, in the early stages of the month, you will need to be very cautious. Do keep your temper in check. If you get disturbed by circumstances, you may lose your focus. And if, you get irritated with people, you may end up saying stuff you will regret. Overall, in such situations things may work to your detriment. Try to be diplomatic, thus, especially while discussing money matters. If you plan to commit, seek an expert’s opinion, before giving a nod. Know that one wrong judgement may lead to your money getting stuck and returns getting delayed. Career matters shall again be on the forefront. Venus in the 3rd House from your Sign for a better month indicates lack of concentration. If in a job, you will need to be extra attentive, while completing an assigned task. If you are into a business, Ganesha advises you to brace up for some challenges; don't let the low margins dishearten you. Things shall change for the better soon!

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21 The dark clouds hovering over you in the initial stages of the month will begin to clear off, post the first week, assures Ganesha. So, keep up your spirits! Usually performance-oriented and too impatient for results, you are likely to experience some constraints, during the first week of the month. But, don’t blame yourself, as the challenges are mostly due to Saturn, which is now posited in an Opposition aspect to your Sign. This may be compensated, particularly during the 2nd week of this month, when the positive influence of Jupiter shall help you overcome the negativities. The presence of Mercury in your Sign too will keep you energised, encouraging you to work with renewed vigour. Let your get-up-and-go attitude do the talking. At work, your superiors and subordinates are likely to praise your dedication and performance, as much as your ebullient initiative. For businessmen,

Indians at home and abroad gather together with family, Pink City’ once you look at the glorious stucco buildings friends and neighbours to throw balloon bombs, fire water that line Jaipur's wide streets. pistols and splash coloured water as they run through the Explore the City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Amber and streets. They generally go a little wild. Shops and business- Jaigarh Forts or hunt for unique souvenirs. es close down for the day.

Mingle with the locals at the Holi Elephant Festival. Try Celebrated originally as the end of winter, it also cele- your hand in tying-a-turban competition or test your might brates the legend of Prahlada, who was protected from the in a tug-of-war match. You can also join in the matka flames by Lord Vishnu. Despite the abusive nature of his (water-filled pot) race and be the first one to reach the finfather King Hiranyakashipu, he continued his devotion ish line without dropping the earthen pot that balances on towards Vishnu. your head!

Colourful celebrations Extravagant monument You should also join in the fun of this Agra, in the north state of Uttar Pradesh, gay abandon in other ways. Delhi hosts is a major tourist destination because of the Holi Cow Festival, a music fiesta the numerous splendid Mughal-era buildwith traditional throwing of multiings. coloured powder (non-toxic) and live At the top of the list is the Taj Mahal, music. followed by the Agra Fort and Fatehpūr Alternatively, take a four-hour drive Sikrī. All three are UNESCO World from the national capital to the temple Heritage sites. towns of Mathura (Lord Krishna's On the southern banks of the Yamuna birthplace) and Vrindavan (where he River, the Taj Mahal remains one of spent his childhood).

India’s most enduring symbols.

This is where holi is a very important Emperor Shah Jahan built it in fond traditional festival with 40 days of celmemory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. It ebrations, with revelry being held every has been rightly described as the most day in a different temple of Lord ‘extravagant monument to love’ ever Krishna. See dances depicting the oribuilt. gins of the festival, along with tossing The striking white marble mausoleum coloured powders and listening to folk was completed in 1653: it took nearly 22 songs. years to build.

In fact, move out of the capital: why French scholar Romain Rolland was prenot combine a tour of the famous • The 42-metre-high India Gate, in New cise when he said: "If there is one place Golden Triangle — Delhi, Agra and Delhi, commemorates the 70,000 Indian on the face of earth where all the dreams who lost their lives fighting for of living men have found a home from the Jaipur — and further broaden your soldiers the British Army during the World War I. experience of the boisterous holi merri- Originally called the All India War very earliest days when man began the ment.

Memorial, it’s an Arc-de-Triomphe’-like dream of existence, it is India."

Jaipur is the capital and largest city of archway in the middle of a crossroad that Rama Gaind travelled at her own expense.

Rajasthan in north India. You will attracts an endless stream of tourists on a understand why it’s nicknamed ‘the daily basis. Photo: Rama Gaind

www.ganeshaspeaks.com the month appears good generally, except some concern, due to dip in the sales. Introduce some innovative marketing ideas to increase your turnover.

Cancer - June 22 - July 22 The month begins on a mixed note – there shall be some hectic times, but the promise of some respite shall keep you in a cheerful mood. However, if do not remain careful, this month you could miss out on some good opportunities--to make some extra cash. As per your planetary configurations, Ganesha also advises you to postpone taking important decisions regarding financial matters. Keep a watchful eye on your previous investments, and if the returns are not satisfactory, take steps to invest your funds in a better avenue. You are likely to gain by renting or selling a property.

This will put you in a financially comfortable position. Being family-oriented, you are likely to decide to spend a part of this financial gain for your family’s betterment. You are also likely to plan a pilgrimage or a family outing to maintain the cheer and harmony. On the job front, even though the things may seem calm on surface, there may be some stuff boiling under. Keep an eye (and an ear) open to guard against the evil eye. The high-handed attitude of your boss may force you to look out for another job, and if you get one, you would do well to hop on, tips Ganesha.

Leo - July 23 - August 22 Your sincerity and dedication as a professional will be widely recognised by one and all, but more importantly by your superiors, who are very likely to offer you a good hike in your perks. You shall also manage to win their goodwill. Your recent good run in almost all spheres of life shall also help you earn a good reputation. Your seniors may also delegate some important tasks to you. This month shall be equally beneficial for freelancers and businesspersons—given the easy and profitable deals awaiting them. Through overseas clients, you may rake in huge profits. However, things on the domestic front may be delicate, as you have been neglecting familial issues, owing to a busy work schedule.

Certain events may disturb you, but Jupiter posited in your Sign will help you calm down and maintain a positive frame of mind. Take some time out to get your priorities right. If you have been planning to buy something expensive, such as a property or a vehicle, this month is auspicious for it, so go right ahead!

Virgo - August 23 - October 22 The road ahead may not be very smooth, suggest the stars. But, will that deter you? Not really, for you will forge ahead with your steely determination and meticulous organisation, in spite of the planetary configurations hurling numerous obstacles in your path. At work, do not get upset by the unpredictable behaviour of your colleagues or subordinates. This will also help you keep any stress-related health issues at bay. Your superiors may be able to become a guiding and motivating force. There is a likelihood of an accident or a minor injury, particularly on the lower part of the body.

Digestive and respiratory systems could also cause problems. Take precautionary measures to avoid complications. Your health may be specially vulner-

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

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

able now, warns Ganesha, and if you manage to keep it in top shape, all other challenges may seem to melt away. Nonetheless, you will do well to keep a calm front in all relationship matters. There may be issues, especially if you are married. Try not to bring home the pressure of work. Freelancers and businesspersons will have a smoother ride and may come across umpteen opportunities to expand operations and turnover.

Libra - September 23 - October 22 Success amidst struggle, strife and slow growth shall be the theme of the month for your Sign. And, there are three things you will need to remember--to come out unscathed of these planetary vibes, says Ganesha. One, watch your temperament, as you are likely to act in a very unreliable and capricious manner, which may affront your colleagues and even superiors at work and loved ones at home. Ganesha advises you to be very careful during this phase not to hurt anyone by thought, word or deed. Two, do not be bogged down by looming deadlines and tightening pressure, as this is something that is largely out of your hand. Just give your best shot, and if you happen to miss a deadline by a narrow margin, be ready with a genuine explanation. Third and most important—do not lose hope. There may be frustrations at work, which may force you to look for a new avenue, but the new opportunities may not be very forthcoming. Blame it on the retrograde Saturn.

And, lie a little low till this phase passes.

Businessmen and freelancers too will need to follow the same plan, adds Ganesha.

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 If you are in a job, you shall have to be very careful this month, especially while communicating with the higher-ups. Using impolite words or saying things in a sarcastic way may land you in trouble. However, this does not mean that you should not put across your views frankly; do so by all means, but be humble while doing so. On the domestic front, too, be compassionate with your near and dear ones, as the chances of arguments leading to disharmony are high this month. Renovating your home, replacing old furniture or vehicle or receiving gifts from inlaws may put you and your family in high spirits. If you are a businessperson, you shall have lots to rejoice, as you are likely to enter into a supply contract with a business tycoon. However, you shall have to negotiate hard, and entertain him/her to bag the deal. The positive influence of Jupiter will present you with myriad opportunities to strengthen your financial position. Refrain from succumbing to the temptation to earn a quick buck. Do not try to take advantage of the loop-holes in law.

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 22 Brace up for a slightly uneven month, both on your personal and professional fronts. You may be pulled on from the two aspects of your life, which may make you angry and drained.

Ganesha advises you to manage your time very carefully and schedule your tasks in such a way that you do not compromise on either side. At work, you may not be satisfied with the rewards of the efforts you have put in, but be patient and peg on, as justice will soon be done. Freelancers and businesspersons will earn a great reputation among their clients/customers, but it will be far from a cake-walk. Be more flexible, and listen to their demands and meet the required deadlines to keep them happy. Your financial situation may be a

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cause for concern, but Ganesha assures you that you shall get enough opportunities to raise your bank balance. Just be alert, and ensure that you grab the opportunities as soon as they come.

Unexpected expenses may upset your savings plan for the month. Keep enough provisions for contingencies.

Capricorn - December 23 - January 30 Your personal life and monetary matters largely dominate your platter this month. In all likelihood, this is likely to be a routine, monotonous month. You shall not find much intellectual stimulation, and the monotony may drain you in the initial part of the month. Ganesha points out that this is the best time to unwind and recharge your batteries. Perhaps you could take a small break and go on an excursion for a change of air.

On and off, though, there are bound to be some stimulating opportunities, which you will need to be ready to grab. Personally, you will tend to be a bit of an introvert, and your lack of involvement, whether at home or in office, may be misconstrued as arrogance, and people around you may not take it too kindly. Refrain from getting worked up by criticism. Take this in right spirit, and push yourself to improve. If you wish to change your job, the retrograde Saturn in the 12th House from your Sign may dampen your efforts. Hang on, thus, for some time.

Freelancers and businessmen will have to put in extra efforts to make significant progress. Don't blow your money up indiscriminately.

Aquarius - January 21 - February 19 Brimming with confidence, you shall take a lot of initiative in your job, much to the delight of your bosses. Your peers, too, shall be very cooperative and with their help you are likely to scale new heights this month.

However, the influence of Mars will make you feel irritable. Don’t let your mood affect the workplace; be humble while interacting with superiors. Also, be very careful of your temperamental nature, lest you end up hurting the sentiments of people around you. On the domestic side, this phase will give you a chance to sort out issues with your partner. Put your ego aside, iron out differences and simply enjoy the pleasures of marital life! On the financial front, you shall be comfortable. Ganesha advises you to make smart investments to secure yours and your family’s future. You have one more reason to cheer up: unexpected returns, extra earnings or forgotten income/recovery of money is likely to raise your cash reserves.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20 This month, Ganesha warns you to be careful about your finances, as two major planets, Saturn and Jupiter, aspect the 12th House of Expenses. This aspect could induce you to spend your money on unnecessary things.

Besides, on the axis of the 2nd and 8th House, the malefic shadow planets Ketu and Rahu would be posited. These too will pose hurdles on the financial front for you. However, if you strictly set some money aside for emergencies, you shall be fine. On the professional front, be wary of your tempertantrums, as neither peers nor superiors will take kindly to them. On the home front, you may not see eye to eye with your spouse on certain matters, and if one of you does not stay cool, even minor differences of opinion can lead to bitter arguments, adversely affecting your relationship. Try to sort out tricky issues amicably and enjoy a healthy and blissful conjugal life.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Real Estate News

What are genuine savings?

By Gagan deep Tandon 0425 158 280 APPLYING for your first home loan doesn’t need to be a complicated venture, but there are a couple of things to get your head around. For one, you’ll need to put down a deposit before you can secure the loan and lenders will typically want this to come from the genuine savings. But what does this mean? And what kind of things do they assess? Here is a quick guide to help demystify the terms.

What are genuine savings?

Aside from eligible First Home Buyer Grant, your lender will normally need you •tohome loans 5 per cent proveand that investment you’ve got around •ofcar and personal loans the purchase price of the property saved or held and over franchise a period ofloans time – this is •up business as and genuine •known general risksavings. insurances Basically, it is money that you’ve gradually accumulated over time. Saving genuineCall Gagan deep Tandon ly is also a great starting point to establish saving as well as preparing 0425 2good 51 158 58 2 280 80 •habits, gtandon@smartline.com.au you.smartline.com.au/gtandon for mortgage payments further down www.smartline.com.au/gtandon the line.

Why do I need them?

Home loan providers usually ask for gen-

uine savings when you’re applying for a mortgage with a high LVR, or loan-to-value ratio. For example, you’ll generally need to provide evidence of these genuine funds if you’re borrowing 85 per cent or more of the property’s value.

What do lenders accept?

It’s not just a matter of telling the lender you have the money saved - you’ll need to provide evidence in the form of bank statements. This should show that you’ve established the pattern over the space of generally three months.

There are also other forms that lenders count towards your genuine savings, including equity held in other assets or investments, such as residential property.

They might even accept inheritance, cash or good rent repayment history over a period of time but the requirements vary from bank to bank. In any case, make sure to have a chat with your Mortgage Adviser before approaching a lender to avoid any surprises.

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Real Estate News Rental markets Abandoning negative faring better in most gearing will be detrimental, warns REIQ of the State

NO STAG W E3 SE LA L L ND IN G

THE Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) today (16 April) rejected calls put to the Federal Government to remove negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions for residential property investors.

Negative gearing brings significant benefits to the economy and social benefits to the broader community and the sudden removal of this would be detrimental, the industry’s leading organisation warned.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the peak body supported negative gearing because it encouraged investment in property, contributed to growth and kept rental affordability in check.

She dismissed as shortsighted, views that removing negative gearing benefits would benefit the economy.

“Investors help maintain supply to the rental market and a strong supply also ensures rental affordability is maintained,” Ms Mercorella said.

“In Queensland more than a third of our population is in rental accommodation, so it’s crucial that supply is maintained for this large section of the community.

“If private rentals were drastically reduced this would place enormous strain on the limited resources in public housing,” she said.

“It would also serve to drive up rents in remaining limited stock.”

Ms Mercorella said a review of history would confirm this, with the government

removing gearing benefits in in 1985 only to reinstate them in 1987 when rents surged approximately 25 per cent.

She also said encouraging individuals to save and invest in property boosted financial self-sufficiency for individuals later in retirement, a key plank of government policy.

Ms Mercorella said there was a common misconception about investors who access negative gearing benefits and capital gains tax concessions, as very wealthy with a vast portfolio of property.

Recent statistics from February 2015 revealed that about 70 per cent of investors who benefit from negative gearing earn about $80,000 and about 73 per cent own just one investment property.

In Queensland, owner occupiers account for two-thirds of the residential dwelling market, with investors making up about a third (34 per cent).

REIQ

REGIONAL Queensland’s rental sector is incrementally improving, while the southeast corner - the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast - powers on with healthy-to-tight market ratings, according to new REIQ data (27.04.15).

The data, as at the end of March 2015, reveals good news for investors and for the broader property sector across the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane City, as well as regional towns of Gladstone, Rockhampton and Mackay.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the two coasts – the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast – continued to power ahead with the lowest vacancy rates in the state.

“The Gold Coast has recorded its lowest vacancy rate in seven years, with just 1.3 per cent of the market’s rental properties vacant,” she said.

“This is a strong indicator that other sectors of the economy may be rebounding and we are buoyed by this news,” Ms Mercorella said.

The Sunshine Coast recorded a slight increase in its vacancy rate, 1.9 per cent, up by 0.8 per cent, but it is still classified as a tight market.

Brisbane City’s vacancy rate dropped almost 0.5 per cent, from 2.9 per cent to about 2.5 per cent.

The REIQ data revealed positive results for traditional mining towns.

Gladstone leads the way with its fifth consecutive drop in vacancy rates since peaking at 7.7 per cent at the end of 2013, now sitting at 3.8 per cent.

“Looking at the figures for Mackay,

Rockhampton and Gladstone it is too soon to call this anything other than what it is – a glimmer of hope that a turnaround is imminent,” Ms Mercorella said.

“We know that in Mackay the local government is focusing on diversifying its key industries and employment prospects are looking up,” Ms Mercorella said.

“Mackay Mayor Deirdre Comerford will be addressing the REIQ membership at our May 20 luncheon and she will outline some of the many activities Mackay City Council has undertaken to stimulate the economy,” Ms Mercorella said.

Bundaberg has also seen an improvement in vacancy levels, with local agents saying the market is very much still stabilising.

Townsville’s ongoing unemployment levels continue to have a negative impact on the rental market, with the vacancy rate up since the start of the year.

The downturn in the mining industry also continues to significantly impact upon the smaller regional areas such as Isaac and Whitsundays. Bowen and Moranbah in particular are seeing a significant oversupply of rental properties, which is behind the high vacancy rate for their respective regions overall (Isaac 17.4 per cent and Whitsunday 13.5 per cent).

Meanwhile Mount Isa saw a slight improvement, down 0.7 percentage points from 9.9 per cent to 8.6 per cent.

Gympie has recorded an easing in vacancy levels, with the vacancy rate increasing to just over 2.5 per cent, taking the region’s rental market back into healthy market conditions.

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WHATÊS ON!

14 May...

GOPIO Queensland – Girmit Diwas... A memorial Service in honour of the first Indians to arrive in Fiji Islands. 6pm for 6:30pm start at The Main Auditorium Queensland Multicultural Centre, 120 Main Street, Kangaroo Point. Program: key note speech, laying of wreaths and flowers, video presentation. FREE entry, finger food will be served. Contact GOPIO Qld President, Yousuf Alikhan on 0401 006 430, Secretary Viral Shah 0410 549 689 or Umesh Chandra 0421 388 465

16 May...

International Congress of Fiji (ICFI) – Annual Girmit night...Management Committee of ICFI advise that the annual Girmit night will be held on Saturday 16 May 2015. If you are planning any major event, the ICFI management will appreciate if you are able to please plan it around this date to avoid a clash.

Thank you for your consideration and cooperation. For more details contact Sarat Maharaj – Public Relations officer 0407 111 709.

Australian Trade Access – 2015 Lions Medical research Foundation Charity Fashion Fundraiser...6:30pm for 7:30pm start at Ferrari Brisbane, 358 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley (entry via Acland Lane) Attire: Gatsby Inspired / Black Tie. After Party. RSVP & Enquiries Laurita Chu 0403 189 941 or rsvp@bclionsclub.org.au Tickets $88 pp; $128pp VIP (limited seats).

Book Now! www.trybooking.com/HJIY

17 May...

American College and Bluemoon Productions & Beat Records proudly presents Jugni live by legendary performer Arif Lohar... 7pm at Brisbane Convention Centre, Grey Street, South Brisbane. Ticket prices – VIP $100 / Gold $70 / Silver $50 Book now at www.ticketek.com.au For tickets and more info call Sabahat Mahmood 0402 857 756 / Rocky Bhullar 0423 255 406 / Kamar Bal 0422 089 599 or Preet Siyan 0422 542 030

Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir – Navagraha Maha Yagna by Dharam Guru Param Pujya Pt Tripathi Ji – 10.30am to 1pm at 86 Scott Lane, North Maclean. Everyone please come and join this Navagraha Maha Yagna.

Bhajans Kirtans and food will be provided.

Yagna Hawan Sponsor $111 / Food Sponsor $300. Appeal for donation: we humbly appeal to everyone in our community to please donate Loha (steel) for Shani Deo’s Blessing on this auspicious occasion. The sponsor for one iron panel for the new fence at the temple is $89. Loha Dan Kijiye aur Shani Dosh Hataiye! Aisa Awsar Kab Milega?

For sponsors, donations or any queries please contact: Devika Maharaj 0428 911 159 / Dhiru Desai 0406 213 153 For a secured online donation visit www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au GOPIO Women’s Council invites you to a Picnic in the Park – 11am-2pm at New Farm Park – 1042 Brunswick Street, New Farm.

Admission: Adults $10, Kids under 12 $5 (Veg / Non Veg) RSVP and payment compulsory by 15 May 2015 to Amitha Jaggessar 0422 524 728 or amy@intech.edu.au

23 May...

Bengali Society of Queensland presents Manomay Bhattacharya Live...from 7pm at GHD Auditorium, Advanced Engineering Building, University of Queensland, St Lucia.

Manomay Bhattacharya is a versatile, talented and popular young Bengali singer who achieved a lot of feat in the Bengali music industry within a small time. For more information and ticket prices please contact Mahua Sen 0401 693 983, Banibrata Mukherjee 0448 850 093 or visit www.bsqonline.net.au

28 May...

AUTHOR TALK with Arthur NEEDHAM – The Coins of India – The Mughal Emperors ... Arthur is the co-author of ‘The Coins of India – The Mughal Emperors’ a detailed and illustrated guide to Sultanate and Mughal coinage. Arthur has an interest in Indian numismatics, history and the Persian language.

FREE Event – Book Sales and signings will be available. 5:30pm at Barry Jones Auditorium, Ipswich Central Library.

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

MAY / JUNE 15 Bookings are essential – Contact the Ipswich Central Library on (07) 3810 6815 or visit www.libraryipswich.qld.gov.au

4 June...

St John’s Cathedral FREE morning Concert...

11am at St John’s Anglican Cathedral, 413 Ann Street, Brisbane. Performers: The Conservatorium’s large vocal ensemble. For further information visit www.stjohnscathedral.com.au or 07 3835 2222

4 to 8 June...

QFFA presents Brisbane Masters Cup (35s & 40s)...Teams and players from Fiji origin and Indian subcontinent origin. Join us for the biggest masters comp in Brisbane. Fiji Style seafood / Licensed bar / free parking. $2 admission. Join us on facebook / www.qffa.com.au or email secretary@qffa.com.au

7 June...

Brisbane Super Kings (BSK) presents SUPER 6 Cricket Tournament 2015... 8am – 5pm at Joe Lambert Drive, Kianawah Park, Tingalpa.

24 Teams – 6 a side Round Robin 5 overs – Trophies and cash prizes. For sponsorship please contact Dr K. K Nava 0400 820 013 / Registration Janak 0433 681 505 , Sridhar 0449 961 411 ($120 entry fee) / email Sathish@brisbanesuperkings.com Bollywood Soiree, Charity Dinner in aid of “Project: Home Chiang Rai” Building a home for rescued children from sexual exploitation in Thailand... 6pm seating for 6.30pm start at The Marigold Restaurant, Ground Floor, Oasis Shopping Centre, 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach. Tic Reservations or event inquiries givinghearts@mail.com / Sabrina 0451 186 124 / Rebecca 0738 755 232 or Pushpinder 0416 137 580 Islamic College of Brisbane invites everyone to their Big Winter Fete... 11am to 8pm at 45 Acacia Road, Karawatha Qld 4117. Entertainment, International food, Auctions, Rides, Fireworks Spectacular.

Admission $2 - Parking $5 inc. free admission. For more information visit www.icb.qld.edu.au

13 June...

Party the night away with a 90’s Bollywood disco!...Join HIMMY and friends for a dinner and dance spectacular that will take you back to the funkiest era of Bollywood. Doors Open 6:30pm at Macgregor State School Hall, 370 McCullough Street, Macgregor. Tickets $15 Children under 12 - $30 per person, includes full buffet dinner. Dress Code = 90’s Bollywood - prizes for best dressed!

Tickets available at all Santoshi India House Outlets...Mount Gravatt - Strathpine Cannon Hill. To purchase tickets online go to www.ninetiesrevival.eventbrite.com.au For Tickets and Info contact: Himmy 0405 382 754 / Shan 0499 800 208 or Jess 0422 414 668

Brisbane Multinational Church - Hindi Church Service. 5:30pm at 757 Gympie Road, Lawnton. For more information contact Ps Joseph Dass 0424 180 240 (every month on second Saturday 11 July / 8 Aug / 12 Sept / 10 Oct / 14 Nov / 12 Dec)

19 July...

Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir Guru Purnima...178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall. For more information contact Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 or Sunil Maharaj 0488 324 891 or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au

25 July...

Eswaralaya Kalaikoodam proudly presents “Narthana Malaa”...For further information please contact Smt. Manga Surendran on 0433 967 489

4EB Annual Dinner Dance – Christmas in July...6pm at Marymac Community Centre, 616 Ipswich Road, (Cnr Ipswich Rd & Ferndale St), Annerley. Book in anticipation for this popular annual event – Don’t miss out! Entertainment by “Fortunato” and Frank, the drummer from Stanthorpe Food, dance, prizes, laughs and more dancing – get your shoes polished and bring your energy to eat, dance and enjoy all night!!! For tickets or further information contact 07 3240

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 proudly sponsors this page for community organisations / non profit organisatons! To view full list of upcoming events visit www.indiantimes.com.au 8600 or email info@4eb.org.au

15 August...

GOPIO QLD Inc – India Day Fair 2015...11.30am – 8pm at Roma Street Parklands Amphitheatre. Parades, live performances, cultural items, food and stalls.

For sponsorship Contact Usha Chandra 0419 775 416 or Vivek Chopra 0424 579 039

30 August TO 6 Sept...

Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir Shree Krishna Janam Astami...178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall. For more information contact Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 or Sunil Maharaj 0488 324 891 or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au

12 to 13 September...

FASA (Fiji Australia Sports Association) Navtarang Community Cup – Interested teams (0/30’s, 0/40’s & Premiers) should contact via email fasa.sydney@gmail.com Please note tournament date may need to be rescheduled if NSW league is not completed then .Also check out FASA’s Facebook profile – Fiji Australia Sports Association for updates

17 September...

Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir Ganesh Chaturthi...178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall. For more information contact Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 or Sunil Maharaj 0488 324 891 or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au

19 September...

Sangeet Mela – Indian Classical Music and Dance Festival...Queensland Multicultural Centre, 102 Main Street, Kangaroo Point. AllIndia Mela including both North and South Indian classical music and dance. Rising star awards for young artists under 25...visit www.sangeetmela.org/awards For sponsorship enquiries or further information email shen@sangeetmela.org Eswaralaya Kalaikoodam annual concert “Evening of Classical Dance”...For further information please contact Smt. Manga Surendran on 0433 967 489

3 to 5 October...

FASA (Fiji Australia Sports Association) presents Fiji community’s sports event of 2015...the International Veterans Soccer Tournament – Teams from Aust, NZ & Fiji.

Divisions – 0/40’s & 0/30s For queries contact FASA via email fasa.sydney@gmail.com Also check out FASA’s Facebook profile – Fiji Australia Sports Association for updates

14 October to 22 October...

Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir Navraatri (Durga Naomi) celebrations...178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall. For more information contact Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 or Sunil Maharaj 0488 324 891 or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au

31 October...

Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir Annual public DIWALI Celebrations...at Cannon Hill Anglican College, Corner of Junction Street & Krupp Rds, Cannon Hill (or alternative venue) For more information contact Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 or Sunil Maharaj 0488 324 891 or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au

11 November...

Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir Diwali celebrations at Mandir...178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall. For more information contact Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 or Sunil Maharaj 0488 324 891 or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au

21 to 22 November...

FASA (Fiji Australia Sports Association) ESYKOOL sponsored Fiji Cup Tournament – A local veterans soccer tournament for over 30s and over 40s, with kids soccer and netball competition. Please note tournament date may need to be rescheduled. For queries contact FASA via email fasa.sydney@gmail.com Also check out FASA’s Facebook profile – Fiji Australia Sports Association for updates

Weekly Events...

Australian Pentecostal Assembly Brisbane – Sunday Worship every Sunday 9am-11.30am

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

Brahma Kumaris Australia – Meditation & Positive Thinking Sessions – Mondays 10.30am to 11.30am: Regular meditation should improve your ability to focus and think clearly. By practising mediations which cultivate our ability to sense and care for our natural energy we are able to live life with greater awareness and confidence. Each class includes guided meditations, discussions, short talks and the introduction and practice of techniques. Each session is a different topic. Meditation sessions Tuesdays 6.30pm to 7.30 pm and Sundays 5.30pm to 6.30pm. During these sessions there will be meditation commentaries, music and periods of silence. You can come and go at any time during these sessions. Venue: 27 Bordeaux Parade, Mermaid Waters. Please phone to register – 5575 2126. Email goldcoast@au.brahmakumaris.org or visit www.brahmakumaris.org/au/whatson for more information Nundah Yoga - FREE meditation classes – Nundah Community Centre, 14 Station Street, Nundah.

Organization of Hindu Malayalees Queensland (OHM Queensland) – Monthly Bhajans held every first Saturday of Malayalam calendar. Activities include Bhajans, Malayalam Class, Library service, religious short educational presentations, vegetarian dinner etc. For further information please contact President Krishnan AK on 0418 727 570 or ohmqueensland@gmail.com Sai Baba Aarti Program – Every Thursday 7.30pm – Virginia State School, 1678 Sandgate Road, Virginia (next to Virginia Train Station) Aarti & Archana opportunity for all attendees, Prasad & Dinner provided.

Enquiries call 0405 392 793 / saibababrisbane@gmail.com / Like on facebook www.facebook.com / SaiBabaBrisbane

Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) Brisbane (South Maclean) – For full list of upcoming events please visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org

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

The Mantra Room – Live Kirtan – Spend an evening of sacred Yoga chant with Gayatri, Ishvara, Jayadharma and friends Fridays 6pm, Sundays 5pm and Wednesdays 7pm at Australian School of Meditation & Yoga, 236 Montague Road, West End. Amazing Vego Food $5. Come celebrate, meditate and let the music set you free.

For more information call 3844 8441 or email brisbane@asm.org.au Yoga in Daily Life – Discount Yoga Classes – every Thursday at 6pm and every Friday at 4.30pm, they are $10 for 1 hour and half, with relaxation, asanas, pranayam and meditation, at Yoga in Daily Life Brisbane Ashram. Also full moon meditation at 7.45pm – 8.30, every Purnima by Donation.

Yoga in Daily Life – 46 Doggett Street, Newstead Qld 4006. www.brisbane.yogaindailylife.org.au / brisbane@yogaindailylife.org Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

YS 7:30 PM! THURSD A DA AY VIRGINIA ST A TE SCHOOL HALL! TA AT (Next to Virg rgi ginia Tra form)! rain Station Platfo

1678 78 S ATE RD! SA ANDGAT VIRGINIA, BRISBANE 4014!

M: 0405 392 779 93!

E: saibababrisbane@gmail.com!

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“It is My special charra acteristic to frre ee any perrsson, who surrre enderrss completely to Me and who does worrsship me ffa aithfully and who rre ememberrss Me and meditates on Me constantly” – Sai Baba !

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BSK CRICKET CLUB presents

24 TEAMS

6 a side Round Robin 5 overs

Trophies & Cash Prizes

Date- 7/06/2015 Time- 8AM - 5PM Location- Joe Lambert Drive, Kianawah Park, Tingalpa For Sponsorship please contact: Dr K. K Nava- 0400 820 013 For Registration: Janak- 0433 681 505, Sridhar- 0449 961 411 Email: sathish@brisbanesuperkings.com

Our Supporters

Our Sponsors

Entry Fee $120

Media Supporters

QLD WareHouse Cricket

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 41

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 43

Bollywood & Entertainment

Raunak Mela 2015 in Brisbane

Moments Photography@Reena Augustine

BRISBANE: On 26th April Brisbane experienced the vibrancy of Punjabi live music on the occasion of Vaisakhi at Raunak Mela 2015. Raunak Mela 2015 was sponsored by New England College and featured Narinder Jot, Amar Arshi, Karamjit Anmol, Inder Nikku and Nisha Bano.

Raunak Mela 2015 began by featuring a host of local talents, this has become a trend these days and gives the local talents and opportunity to show case there

talents. The versatile musicians accompanying the main singers try their best to fit in with these local singers. I must say that they do a wonderful job and are very obliging and accommodating.

Raunak Mela 2015 was held at Cavendish RD State high school, Preet Siyan one of the main organisers acknowledged everyone and presented tokens of appreciation to all sponsors and supporters.

The turnout was favourable and the show was very

Moments Photography@Reena Augustine

entertaining, quite suited to the whole family. Punjabi music is such that it brings out the dancer in anyone, keen dancers were asked to dance on the side so that everyone could enjoy the show.

Brisbane has been inundated with many shows lately, despite many shows the turnout is encouraging and is much larger as compared to previous years, this is indicative of our growing community.

Note from Editor: Brisbane Indian Times would like to thank the organisers for acknowledging Brisbane Indian Times involvement as media sponsor. The organisers truly know how to look after their sponsors, logo’s were shown on screen, verbal acknowledgment given....and a plaque of appreciation was also presented. With ethics like these I am sure that you will continue to receive support from community / businesses alike....well done!

Moments Photography@Reena Augustine

Vidya Balan is an abused wife in Hamari Adhuri Kahani’s first trailer

THE first trailer of Emraan Hashmi-Vidya Balan-starrer Hamari Adhuri Kahani is out and Bollywood has only praise to offer. Alia Bhatt, Arjun Kapoor and Hansal Mehta tweeted about the trailer which sees Vidya Balan as an abused wife.

Directed by Mohit Suri, written by Mahesh Bhatt and with actors like Rajkummar Rao and Vidya Balan in the lead, there are several reasons to look forward to this movie. The trailer crossed five lakh views within 24 hours.

Rajkummar Rao plays Vidya's abusive husband and the film is a take on domestic violence. In the trailer, Vidya shares intense romantic moments with Emraan while she is physically abused in violent scenes with Rajkummar Rao. Produced by Vishesh Films and presented

by Fox Star Studios, the movie has been shot in India, the US, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.

Humari Adhuri Kahani is scheduled to hit the screens on June 12, 2015.

Call for Young Indian Classical Artists for Sangeet Mela 2015

Courtesy Shen Flindell

SANGEET Premi Club is calling for young Indian Classical artists under the age of 25 to apply for the Sangeet Premi Rising Star Awards, which will be presented at Sangeet Mela 2015 on 19th September at Queensland Multicultural Centre (BEMAC) in Kangaroo Point. Entries close on 31st July 2015, winners will be announced on 15th August.

The awards will be granted in four categories of Sangeet: Vocal, Instrumental, Percussion and Dance, in each of the two broad genres of Carnatic and Hindustani Sangeet. The winners will be invited to perform at Sangeet Mela 2015, alongside high profile artists from Brisbane in collaboration with interstate and international artists.

The inaugural Sangeet Mela in 2014 was a highly successful event, promoting Indian classical music and dance in Brisbane and around Australia. Highlights videos as well as full length performances are available on the Sangeet Mela website www.sangeetmela.org Sangeet Mela 2015 will include both North 44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015

and South Indian classical music and dance and the programme is already looking very exciting. Senior table master in the prestigious Benares Gharana, Pt Pooran Maharaj (son of late Pt Kishan Maharaj), and brilliant vocalist Sri Kumar Gaurav Kohli are already confirmed, as well as last year’s Rising Star Dance Award winner, Helena Joshi, performing Kathak dance with live accompaniment. The Carnatic music programme is yet to be finalised but is expected to be a highlight of the festival.

“We aim for Brisbane Sangeet Mela to be a prestigious annual Indian classical music and dance event recognised throughout the country for high quality of performances, fostering the development of Indian classical culture in Brisbane for years to come,” says Sangeet Premi Club acting president Yousuf Alikhan. “The Sangeet Premi Rising Star Awards will give young artists in our community recognition for their talent and hard work, and the opportunity to perform before senior artists and music aficionados.”

Further information on the awards can be found at www.sangeetmela.org/awards

Johny Lever live in Brisbane

THE great Bollywood comedian Johny Lever pleased Brisbane audience on Sunday 3 May at the Chandler Theatre of Sleeman Complex. The show attracted close to 500 patrons according to Sleeman Complex, filling mainly the centre section of the auditorium.

Johny Lever is a very talented and witty Bollywood comedian, he has many hit movies to his credit, he talked about his journey in Bollywood starting from his humble days of selling pens on the streets of Mumbai (Bombay as it was known then) to stardom.

He was ably accompanied by a troupe of very talented musicians who added to the show with their very precise sound effects and musical accompaniment. As this was a stand up comedy show the sound requirements were less complicated than a full band with backline equipment etc.

The sound and lighting was very good, Johny put in a lot of effort and energy into the show which was really appreciated by all who attended. Jamie Lever (pictured right) leveraged the show to another level, not only was she a chip off the old block in terms of her stand up performance, she was also a great singer and entertainer.

The event was brought to Brisbane by RD Entertainment and Results Migration, Kritika Bansal Event Management was the Brisbane event partner. Overall it as an excellent and entertaining show.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2015 — 45

Sports News Most consistent team Desi Boys finish the season with a win!

DESI Boys team won A3N grade of 2014-15 summer season of warehouse cricket. Desi Boys team was the most consistent team in the competition having only lost 2 of 15 games played in the season. They beat Ferny Districts in the finals of 2-day competition by 51 runs played on 28th and 29th March in Marchant Park 1 ground in Chermside.

According to captain Sandeep, the depth in their batting and bowling is the main reason for their success this season. He also had special praise for team manager Hitesh Patel for completing

team for every Saturday match and also for being best all rounder of team by making 266 runs batting low down the order and taking 25 wickets. In Batting, Captain of Desi boys team Sandeep Dhaliwal became best batsman in A3N group by making 424 runs. Vishal Kantariya also batted quite well and finished second highest run scorer with 339 runs. In bowling, Harenderpal Singh was best bowler of A3N group and took 38 wickets at average of 6.63 per wicket.

Palvinder Singh supported him really well by taking 28 wickets which also includes 5-wicket haul in the finals. Bhupinder Singh Sran won best batsmen award for 1-day matches in Gabba cup competition.

Team manager Hitesh and Captain Sandeep also wanted to specially thank some players from Micah X1 team (Arif, Paras, Chetan, Raj, Dhronal) who have helped to complete team in many important matches throughout the • Pictured standing: Denish, Ravinder, Palvinder, Ajaypreetpal, Manpreet, Bhupinder. Sitting: Darshan, Vishal, Hitesh season.

(Manager), Sandeep (Captain).

QFFA Brisbane International Masters Cup 2015 QFFA - Connecting the Community

22-year-old Goa boy gets attack spot for top league football in Brazil

AFTER a very successful offer. The Tournament will be played for Girmit Cup in 2012, It is with the Queensland Fiji Legends Shield, in the immense pleasure that honor of former Fiji National representaQueensland Fiji Football tives who have made Queensland their (QFFA) announces the home. They include Anand Sami, Kelemedi Brisbane International Cheetah Vosuga, Mohammed Aiyub Bai, Masters Cup 2015.

Samsud Dean, Esala Masi and Vishwa Nair. ROMEO Fernandes has become the first 22nd 2015 time, Brisbane football lovers ForJanuary a long These Queensland Legends will be present- Indian footballer to play professionally in have demanded an International Masters ing the trophy on Sunday 7 June to the win- Brazil, making his debut for top-flight club Expressionsto of be Interest Head Coach and soccer competition held in Brisbane ners.Team Manager Atletico Paranaense on Saturday 2 May. The Opportunity with teams from Sydney, Melbourne, NZ, We invite Brisbane to become part of a The 22-year-old midfielder, who took the QFFA are seeking expressions of interest for a Head Coach and Team Manager for the QLD U23 Representative team.

Fiji, Canada USA. The celebration

by Pacific participating in the field against Nacional PR in the 69th Representative team willand also likely form the core of theBrisbane Pacific Cup team ingrand 2015, 2016 and the locally hosted Cup in 2017. The Head Coach and Team Manager will initially be for the BrisbaneInternational Cup, with a probability of International Masters Cup will nowrolebecome Brisbane Masters Cup 2015, a minute with his side leading 4-0, is on loan extension for the 2015 Pacific Cup held In Auckland, N.Z in November. an annual feature, and teams from Fiji, NZ Veterans competition designed to bring the at Atletico from I-League club Dempo SC. Position Description: Head Coach and North America have already committed Fijian community and the Greater Indian He was recommended to the club by The head coach will be required to deliver a training and match program in line with coaching and preparation best for thisfor event nextoutcomes year.in the Brisbane Cup. The Coach Sub-continental practice successfulfrom performance will be expected to workcommunity. closely with the Brazilian great and FC Goa coach Zico, Team Manager and QFFA Executive as well as following QFFA’s policies, procedures and code of ethics.

This year, we will see teams from Details are as follows; who was impressed with his showing in the Successful candidates be required the following Melbourne and will Sydney doto fulfill battle with requirements: our Event: Brisbane International Masters (35s inaugural Indian Super League (ISL). ! Be available for trials/team selections during March 2015 local teams the 35s 2015 and Masters & 40s) Cup Fernandes is also the first Indian outfield ! Official trainingin which will Masters commence in March ! Two training sessions per week between March 2015 to June 2015 40s competition.

Local teams include Nadi, Date: 4-8 June 2015 footballer to play for the first team in a top! Organise and preparation for Pre-tournament friendly games Lautoka, Suva, and–Brisbane All Prize Money: $5,000 Prize pool ! Meetings as directedLabasa, by the QFFARa Executive Aveen Singh (Chairman) tier league outside the continent. Before Stars.

From Sydney, we will have Bua, Trophy: Queensland fiji Legends Sheild him, goalkeeper and former India under-22 All Expressions of Interest should include an outline of coaching experience, qualifications and any other relevant Nadi, Navua, Nadro, Suva. From Venue: Acacia Ridge Soccer Club - teammate Gurpreet Singh Sandhu became • Romeo Fernandes, a 22 year old midfielder, information.Ba, Melbourne, weTeam have Melbourne All Stars in Mortimer Road, Acacia Ridge the first Indian to play for a top-tier has become the first Indian footballer to play Position Description: Manager The team manager will be required to support the Head Coach in the administration and planning of the team’s both 35s and 40s competition. More teams • Full set of Rule is available for download European club after making his debut for professionally in Brazil. preparation in line with the coach’s and QFFA Executive’s directive as well as following QFFA’s policies, procedures are joining in as we go to press. on our website - www.qffa.com.au or by Norwegian team Stabek FC last month. the table to the semi-finals. He is still and code of ethics.

Successful candidates will bewill requiredfeature to fulfill the following requirements: The tournament some of the sending request to email “Euphoric would be an understatement... uncapped for India though. ! Be available for trials/team selections during March 2015 biggest names incommence Fiji inSoccer secretary@qffa.com.au ! Official training which will March 2015including For me, this opportunity is a godsend,” said “Atletico was looking to develop a player ! Two training sessions per week between March 2015 to June 2015 Esala Masi, Vishwa Nair, Kelemendi Fernandes in an email to the media. from India. I suggested Romeo and Zico ! Organise and preparation for Pre-tournament friendly games ! Meetings as directed byAiyub the QFFA Executive – Aveen Singh (Chairman) Aveen Singh Vosuga Cheetah, Bai, Samsud Dean, Fernandes scored three goals with two gave his approval,” said the youngster’s Raj Goundar, Inoke Boseilala, Shalen President assists in 11 appearances in the ISL, and agent and former Dempo star Beto.

Prasad and Lorima Batairenga to name a Queensland Fiji Football Association went on to lift his side from the bottom of HT All applications should be emailed to: secretary@qffa.com.au few.

Closing 5pm, Friday 3rd April 2015 The Date: tournament will be a great Fiji style atmosphere with feast Vineet of Raj culninary Contact: For further event information, please contact: on 0475 420 059 delights from Fiji’s favourite dishes in the line up. These include Goat Pulao, Duck Singh 0422310564 | Secretary: Vineet Raj 0475420059 Curry, LambPresident: Curry,Aveen Butter Chicken, Fiji | Treasurer: Ray Ali 0413868240 Style Chop Suey, Ice Block so Australia 4118 P O Fiji Box 30, Browns Plains,and Queensland, secretary@qffa.com.au | www.qffa.com.au TOP-SEEDED Roger Federer defeating second-seeded Grigor The Swiss continued to strugforth. claimed his 85th title Sunday Dimitrov in the semifinals, gle with consistency in the With our strong ethos of connecting the (3 May) with a 6-3, 7-6 (11) received treatment on his fore- tiebreaker - saving three set community, it is important that we provide win over Pablo Cuevas in the arm early in the second set but points - but a superb backhand opportunities to our veterans as well. The final of the Istanbul Open. was able to continue. volley earned Federer a fifth Brisbane International Masters Cup is a The 17-time Grand Slam winFederer, who claimed his first match point that he converted competition designed to bring our greater ner fended off strong resistance title on clay since winning in when Cuevas sent a forehand Indian Sub-Continental brethren together Photo: from the third-seeded Madrid in 2012, broke for a 4- in the net. with our Fijian brethren on a greater platUruguayan, who saved four 3 lead in the second set but It was Federer's third title this Reuters form to continue our journey in sharing our match points. dropped his serve immediately season following victories in 128th final, compared to four common heritage and engaging ourselves in Cuevas, bidding for a fourth after hitting a double fault and Brisbane and Dubai on hard for Cuevas - who won a title in in the celebration of soccer.

AP career title after impressively missing two forehands. court. He was playing in his Sao Paulo in February.

Total pool prize money of $5,000 is on

Federer ends three-year claycourt drought with Istanbul title

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APPLY NOW AT WWW.MISSINDIA.MENU EMAIL - FRANCHISE@MISSINDIA.NET.AU pHONE - (07) 3040 8420

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