A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Print Post Approved PP : 424022 1724 | ISSN 2652-6182
Volume 17, Number 9 Saturday, May 15th, 2021
As God is One, we respect all Religions
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Community standing together in solidarity
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07 3268 6188 BRISBANE, in a move of solidarity Queensland Indian Community came together for a candlelight Vigil in support of many lives lost and for thousands still suffering as a result of the deadly reemergence of covid 19 in India. Hospitals are full, beds are not available, oxygen is in short supply, and all these paints a grim but true picture. While the immediate supply of
oxygen and other medical equipment was the call of the day, coming together and standing together in prayers was equally important, that is exactly what this vigil was aimed at doing. For such a somber event to be successful it needs to be inclusive in nature, and this can be challenging especially when you have less then 72 hours to deliver the event
and you are dealing with multiple organizations. Umesh Chandra OAM was chosen to coordinate and facilitate the event, with GOPIO Queensland, GOPIO Gold Coast, FICQ, AIBC, Gandhi Salt March Limited, Meri Hindi, IMAQ and Brisbane City Council. Despite the short notice the turnout was encouraging, and the media coverage was CONTD. ON PG 18
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Inside
• Local News ..................................4-28 • Real Estate ..................................... 30 • India News ..................................... 34 • Fiji News ......................................... 36 • Entertainment .............................. 38 • Health & Well Being .................... 40 • Astrology ........................................ 42 • Business Directory/Classified ... 43 • Sports News ................................... 44
A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh Chandra OAM & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: 0430 193 715 sales@indiantimes.com.au JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS Ram Jattan (UK) / Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) / Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) • ML. M. Nawaaz Ashram • Imam Muhammad Aslam • Pastor Joseph Dass • Haji Abdul Rahman Deen • Jitendra Deo • Nimisha Modi • Ranjita Pillai (Immigration Matters) • Peter Lane Rai • Awadhesh Sharma • Shailendra Singh • Gagan deep Tandon • Ravi Vastrad • Cartoon Corner: Merwyn Machado • Brian Sullivan (Photography) Address: PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018 Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: (07) 3865 5864 E-mail: prod@indiantimes.com.au Subscriptions: 12 months 6 months Brisbane Indian Times is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Brisbane Indian Times, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in Brisbane Indian Times are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Brisbane Indian Times. Brisbane Indian Times will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply / approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers / correspondents responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned. All corresondence should be addressed to: Brisbane Indian Times, PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018. Ph: (07) 3192 5188 Fax: 3865 5864 / prod@indiantimes.com.au
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From the Publisher WELCOME to our may issue we have just gone through a very turbulent time, by now one would have thought that we would have been past this pandemic but now it is still here and seems like it is here to stay. The situation in India has not improved and the country is grappling with trying to get it under control it is a very grim situation there, international community has come to assist with the situation by sending oxygen an oxygen concentrator, the problem is multiplied by the fact that all hospitals have run out of beds. they are temporary ones being put in place to get the situation under control. Indian government’s handling of the situation has been criticised on the other hand Australian governments ban on travel did not go down well with Australian Indian community. Concerns were raised with the with the federal government’s handling of the travel ban which in fact was a travel pause unfortunately it was not communicated that way, all people heard was Australians in India could not travel to Australia and if they did, they would face a criminal
charge and a hefty fine. The confusion led to uproar and lot of community backlash. Federal government quickly convened a series of virtual roundtable meeting with Indian community leaders, media outlets and heads of organisations. This brought about some stability, people were still worried and wanted to see some sort of a plan of the repatriation flights once the pause was lifted on the 15th of May. Unfortunately, before the flights could resume an Australian permanent Resident waiting to be repatriated died. I personally have attended few of these virtual meeting and had a one-onone video interview with Minister Alex Hawke MP, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant services and Multicultural affairs. We have had few video messages from Prime Minister on the situation, most of these were featured in our daily Facebook live segments. The daily Facebook live segment has become extremely popular, it has caught the attention of many business leaders of course the politicians.
Amidst all these Queensland Indian Community got together to organise a candlelight vigil for the lives lost and the worsening situation in India. Brisbane City Council came on board and supported the event. I was chosen as the event coordinator and the event was supported by many organisations including GOPIO Queensland, GOPIO Gold Coast, FICQ, Gandhi Salt March Limited, AIBC, Meri Hindi and IMAQ. The event was well represented by all faith leaders and community at large, incredibly positive feedback on the inclusive nature of the event, Lord Mayor and his office were of great help with the facilitation. I am glad I could perform my duties diligently and in an inclusive manner, with a lead time of only 72 hours the event, went well. Read the full report in another section. My sincere apologies to many community events I missed , being hospitalised isn’t fun but what do you do, health does matter and we have to do what we need to do ,my appreciation for the paramedic team went up another notch, really appreciate what they do and also the manner in which they deliver their duties, the sight of oxygen bottes neatly stacked in a very clean cage at the emergency entry reminded me of how fortunate we were to be living such a country, I felt sorry for people in similar condition in other countries were they are not this organised, what a painful experience it would be making it into a ward and getting a bed. We have seen footage of oxygen cylinders lying on dirt and people rolling them over with hand and shonky little shed where they were being refilled. So, we are lucky to be in a country which has one of the best health care facility in the world. Tough decisions had to be taken to maintain the health standards, sometimes unpopular but always in the community interest. I hope everyone had a good Ram Navami, Ramadan, Id El Fitr, Udgadi , Hanuman Jayanti and any other auspicious festival that I may have missed to mention. Corona virus has not gone anywhere so please take care and exercise care in attending functions and events, going to shopping centres etc, I was so worried getting admitted to a hospital during a pandemic, but our health system, able, willing and wellresourced removed all doubts. As we hit the halfway mark in this year next month, I sincerely hope that things get better for everyone everywhere, we are but one big family – the family of humanity let us all pray together for peace prosperity and good health, until next month, Happy reading —Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher
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Temporary relaxation of working hours for student visa holders to exceptional circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to ensure the supply of critical services, the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force will take a flexible approach to student visa holders working beyond their usual work limitations, but only in specified industries.
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Students will be allowed to work for more than 40 hours a fortnight if students are: • employed by an aged care Approved Provider or Commonwealth-funded aged care service provider with a RACS ID or a NAPS ID, before 8 September 2020 • employed by a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme provider • enrolled in a health care related course and you are supporting the health effort against COVID-19, as directed by health officials • employed in the agriculture sector • employed in the tourism and hospitality sector These options will be of particular interest to international students and it will create numerous job opportunities for students. Students do not need to do anything special to avail this concession. More clarifications will be available shortly for what is covered under tourism and hospitality and whether services
related indirectly to tourism and hospitality are also covered under this measure. While these measures are in place, the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force will: • exercise their discretion under s116(1)(b) of the Migration Act 1958 to not cancel the visas of students who work in excess of 40 hours each fortnight to support your organisation • not refer student visa holders for investigation of any potential offence under s235 of the Migration Act 1958 that might relate to the hours worked by a student visa holder in breach of their visa conditions • not refer you or relevant third-party labour hire companies, as an employer, for investigation of any potential offence under s245AC of the Migration Act 1958 that might relate to allowing a student visa holder to work in breach of their visa conditions Migration Guru has assisted a vast number of clients, in various and complex circumstances, including student and business visas. Migration Guru has more than 80 years of collective experience in the industry and a team of Migration Agents / Solicitors. With our vast experience and skills, we are able to provide accurate migration or legal advice based on our clients’ personal circumstances. If you would like more information regarding your visa eligibility,
applicable visa subclass, or next steps, Migration Guru can assist you in navigating this process. Our team may be contacted by via email on info at migrationguru.om.au or by calling 07 3036 3800. Readers are encouraged to follow us on Facebook for all the updates to Migration Law - https://www. facebook.com/migrationguru/ Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 18, 127 Creek Street, Brisbane, QLD. Phone: 07 3036 3800 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, 31002, 27 Garden Street, Southport QLD. Phone: 07 5606 6160 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 1, 162 Macquarie Street, Hobart TAS. Phone: 03 6281 8008 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 5, 490 Northbourne Avenue, Dickson, ACT. Phone: 02 6109 9110 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Suite 124, Level 1, 1 Queens Road, Melbourne, VIC. Phone 03 6240 1930 Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Suite 8, Star Tower, Shahupuri, Kolhapur, Maharashtra 416001, India MARN 0324607 www. migrationguru.com.au Disclaimer: - The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual. Information for this articles is sources from Department of Home Affairs.
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Cairns is the centre of the region’s thriving tropical lifestyle This is the first of a two-part feature on Cairns where you’ll rediscover fun in the manner you’ve become accustomed to.
By Rama Gaind
No matter what the weather, wherever you go, always take your own sunshine with you. However, there was no need for an extra dose of sunbeams after arriving in Tropical North Queensland as it was a glorious 28 degrees in Cairns! The Cairns region is renowned as the gateway to two of the world's greatest natural attractions: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. One of the seven wonders of the natural world, Great Barrier Reef is the only living thing on earth visible from space. It’s blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. Then there’s a tiny pocket of tropical rainforest that has survived for millions of years, from the time dinosaurs wandered the earth. It’s quite unlike any other place on the planet. This extraordinary, World Heritage-listed landscape is the oldest tropical rainforest that has been described by English broadcaster and natural historian Sir David Attenborough as “the most extraordinary place on earth”. The scene is set because attractions in Cairns rank as some of the most original and exciting in Australia today. Golden sunny beaches flanked by the Daintree and Cape Tribulation rainforests … it’s a region that literally has it all.
Another glorious morning – looking towards the Coral Sea – from the Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort, The Esplanade, Cairns. Fabulous! Photo: Rama Gaind Take the time to savour the wonders of the deep blue seas of the Reef (a Marine Park and World Heritage Area), along with the scenic rainforest railway, upand-down the Skyrail and the lagoon on the Cairns Esplanade. The latter is a fabulous highlight - right in the heart of the city where the swimming pool immediately overlooks the Coral Sea and the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Do combine Skyrail Rainforest Cableway with the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway for an experience to remember. Skyrail is a 7.5km long cableway – hop on-andoff along the way to explore the boardwalks and rangerguided tours in the forest. It’s an amazing experience over Australia's World Heritagelisted tropical rainforests. Enjoy bird’s-eye views as
the pioneers of the north. Open are a range of popular wildlife attractions including Kuranda Koala Gardens, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and Birdworld. Once in Kuranda, spend a few hours exploring the arts and crafts of the local galleries or sample the delights of the gourmet chocolates, wines and sweets from the boutique shops. It’s perfectly positioned for a relaxing lifestyle. When in Cairns, it’s a warm and friendly welcome to the Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort, The Esplanade. During one stay there, I found lasting memories were made after meeting people who go the extra mile when it came to service. Thank you Natalie Railsback, Vivian Hsu and Kathy Lim for your attentiveness. Special experiences! Stay high above the ground, overlooking the Coral Sea, in surroundings with a personality of its own.
Long-lasting memories are made after meeting people like Natalie Railsback, who go the extra mile when it comes to service at the Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort, The Esplanade, Cairns. Photo: Rama Gaind Riley has a sophisticated character. Make the most of accommodation that promises a fresh approach to hospitality. The hotel is located close to the Esplanade Boardwalk where you’ll find shopping, entertainment and dining options. If you’re interested in exploring more of Cairns, the Aquarium, Centre of
Contemporary Arts, Cairns Civic Theatre and Great Barrier Reef Departure Terminal are all within short walking distance. Inarguably, Cairns is wonderful one day and glorious the next! You’ll be sunshine happy because as Tim Cahill said: “A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles”.
you glide just metres over the canopy, before exploring the forest floor and learning more at two rainforest midstations. Scenic tours Kuranda Scenic Railway provides a historic, scenic journey between Kuranda 'the village in the rainforest' and Cairns, as you unwind your way through a tropical paradise framed by rugged mountains with waterfalls tumbling forever into deep ravines. The journey, rising from sea level to 328m, to Kuranda passes spectacular rainforest waterfalls and into the stunning Barron Gorge. Meandering through picturesque scenery, you travel through 15 handmade tunnels and across 37 towering bridges that stand as a monument to
Karunda Scenic Railway passes through spectacular rainforest waterfalls and into the stunning Barron Gorge. Photo: Rama Gaind
BRAND NEW ATTITUDE
Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au
Dear reader, it is our joy to bring you the Word of God. Today I want to talk to you about having a good attitude. Most of us have struggled with a bad attitude at some point in
life. Our attitudes are an outward display of what’s taking place in our hearts. When our hearts focus on the right place, our attitudes will, too. The only thing we have to lose by choosing a positive attitude is a negative one. When life gets hard, it is difficult to avoid letting a bad attitude take over our minds and rule our lives. Bad attitudes are like weeds. They are the enemy of every flower. They can spring up overnight. If you don’t consistently deal with them, they take over the whole garden. Bad attitudes can adversely affect your relationships; your dreams
4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
are crushed, you cannot meet your deadlines, job loss, with mounting disappointment and frustration. But no one should ever lose a job, miss a promotion or destroy a marriage because of a poor attitude. Why? Because a person’s attitude isn’t fixed, it is a choice. That means we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we embrace for the day. Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it. And, so it is with you. You are in charge of your attitude. In the scriptures (Genesis 39-41) we read, about Joseph, how he was
betrayed by his family, falsely accused, put in prison for something he didn’t do. His mistreatment lasted for years. It wasn’t fair, but you never read, where Joseph complained, where he was bitter and lazy. Despite all the bad breaks, Joseph kept a good attitude. Thirteen years later, God made him the Prime Minister of Egypt. What you are facing may not be fair; people may not be treating you right. It is a test. God wants to see what you are going to do in difficult times. Too many people allow a terrible attitude that keeps them from getting justice and promotion. But if you will
do like Joseph, keep doing the right thing, keep being good to people when they are not good to you, that’s what allows God to show up in your life. Here are 3 things we can learn from Joseph. 1) Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference. Joseph’s attitude was not dependent on what people did to him. It was his personal choice. 2) Motivation determines what you do, but your attitude will determine how well you do it. We read how people saw that the Lord was with Joseph whether he was in prison or outside. Even in prison, his attitude caused
him to be in charge of the prisoners. 3) A positive attitude will lead to positive outcomes. We all need a positive adjustment from time to time. Just a minor adjustment, getting your attitude a little higher, and you will begin to see that relationship is on the mend. That job which seemed like a burden, now becomes fun to be at. Like Jesus, we are to approach people with love, grace, acceptance, and a heart to serve rather than be served. So if your attitude has not been as good as it could be, make this your starting point. God bless you
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A flexible personality - Sadhguru, Isha Foundation Most of your personality is created by you unconsciously. Just a small part of it may be consciously created. When you create a personality, in one way it means, you think the creator has not done a good enough job on you. If you think that it is something that needs improvement, then definitely according to you, the creator has not done a good enough job with you. So why do you feel that such a grand creation – something that is so fantastic – is not good enough? It is because of the simple process of self-preservation. This is a basic process which is built into every cell in our body. Every worm, every insect, every animal has this. Human beings also have it. The problem is, we don’t know where to contain the process of self preservation. It has spread itself into everything, because of which you have created a small person of yourself who will defend himself all the time. The only thing that needs preservation is your physical body. Your personality does not need preservation. Even if we maul it everyday, it should be okay. You cannot live
without a personality. You need one to exist here, to go about in the world, to do your work, to manage things. But if it is flexible, then you can put on the right kind of personality in different places as it is necessary for the situation ; that would be fine. But right now, it is like a rock. It sits on you all the time. It makes you suffer anything that does not fit into its ambit.
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Now, who drew this caricature that you call as “myself?” It was definitely drawn by you, but you have been influenced by so many people around you. When you were fifteen or sixteen years old, after watching some movie that you really liked, unconsciously you tried to walk like the hero, isn’t it? Sometimes maybe you did it consciously, but most of the time it
happened unconsciously. So, this caricature came into existence because of all kinds of bits and pieces that you gathered. It cannot exist even for a day without your support. You need to support it all the time. What meditation means is, in one way, you are just withdrawing the support for your personality. Suddenly it collapses. Only the presence is there, the
person is no longer there. With life, you were offered an unbounded possibility. But by distorting yourself into this tiny possibility, you have committed an atrocity. Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and bestselling author. Sadhguru has
The only thing that needs preservation is your physical body. Your personality does not need preservation. Even if we maul it everyday, it should be okay. You cannot live without a personality. You need one to exist here, to go about in the world, to do your work, to manage things. But if it is flexible, then you can put on the right kind of personality in different places as it is necessary for the situation ; that would be fine. But right now, it is like a rock. It sits on you all the time. It makes you suffer anything that does not fit into its ambit. been conferred the "Padma Vibhushan", India’s highest annual civilian award, by the Government of India in 2017, for exceptional and distinguished service.
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Sweet UTSAV Brisbane store opened PLAINS, Sweet Utsav Australia largest producer of premium quality sweets officially opened their door on the auspicious time of 3:42 pm on Tuesday 27th April, the time chosen by their guru Sri Bharat Solanki ji. Umesh Chandra OAM did the honours of cutting the ribbon to officially open the new outlet situated at shop 4- 121 Grand Plaza Drive, Browns Plain Brisbane outlet will be run by husband-and-wife team, Raju and Geetha Grandhi, the couple are well known within Brisbane and are well suited for this venture, many well wishers including the founders of the
BROWNS
chain attended the opening ceremony. Given the location and demographic of the area we are sure that the outlet will do well especially being hundred percent vegetarian.
To cater whole Australia, whole new factory was setup in Seven Hills, Sydney under "Sweet Utsav". Within two years, it has grown to NSW, VIC, QLD, ACT regions.
"Sweet Utsav Melbourne" is a subsidiary division. With a strong passion and desire to recognize, they have quality products to make each event as a super special event. There is no compromise in product ingredients, efforts, quality and commitment. They are committed 100% as perfection comes with dedication and perseverance. They are taking orders for: CORPORATE EVENTS, FAMILY FUNCTIONS, and BULK ORDERS. To prebook your orders for Diwali and special events please contact via email sales@sweetutsav.com.au shop phone number is 3416 2879 – 0405 287 287
OZFOODHUNTER LAUNCHES FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE WITH BLACK & WHITE CABS
BRISBANE, This partnership was officially launched on Thursday 16 April at Park on the Royal function Room, the event was attended by high level reps of Black and white Cabs, many restaurant owners, and invited dignitaries. Anu Sharma as the MC introduced the two chief Guests, Umesh Chandra OAM and Pallani Thevar, both guests spoke and the handed out the certificates awards for restaurant owners. You have probably heard around the place that Black & White Cabs has partnered with OZFOODHUNTER (OFH) for food delivery. OzFoodHunter falls into the same concept as a Menulog or Deliveroo. OFH has been in the market for some time but have previously only offered restaurants to customers
to order from and provided their own delivery service. After obtaining positive driver feedback and along with careful consideration, Black and white Cabs have agreed to a 6-month trial. OzFoodHunter has integrated to MTI, so the whole process is automated. All vehicles eventually will be provided with a food delivery insulated box to keep in the car for when they receive this work. Below is the extract from Umesh Chandra speech at the launch: He arrived in Cairns as a student, the year was 2007, and his enterprising nature could not keep him grounded so he made pathways into Brisbane in 2009. With service in his nature he started transporting people as the cab driver with
8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
Black and White cabs He may have been driving the cabs, but the vison was to become something, make something of his life do something meaningful, he was thinking to himself that one day he could partner with black and white cabs The urge for getting into business saw him heading back to Cairns, where he operated an Indian Restaurant for four years. In the ever evolving world he found that people were moving towards online ordering, that got him thinking, and with limited knowledge and resources, he set up a website called ozhunter.com.au, the idea was to serve locals in and around Cairns. The beginning was hard, as it always is. With limited users he was
getting disappointed, but as the saying goes that you need to keep going on and he did just that, and soon with good reviews the turning point came and he started to expand the operations. Online ordering was good but the tech savy younger generation were more inclined to use an App so, he developed a mobile app , after the beta testing and multiple changes the app went live. A survey of the customers found the reason for low uptake was two-fold: 01 They did not provide a delivery service 02 A very competitive market place From 2018 to 2020 they reached around 2500 restaurant that were on board. With pandemic it was clear that food delivery was here to stay, so they decided
to start a delivery service. Idea was good but it was hard to find good drivers, then it dawned upon him to contact Black and White cabs to see if there was a possibility of a collaboration. Black and White Cabs manager John Tighe was open to the idea and since 2020 have been the delivery partner The service is very useful to the local restaurants and the keeps the taxis occupied, rather than standing ideal. And today we launch this exciting new innovative collaboration As I said in the very beginning that he always had community service at heart and the crust of this approach is service. Yes all this while I have been talking about none other than Veeraval Kesavan,
I wish him all the very best with this venture. One thing is for sure that he has a burning desire to succeed and that desire is backed by his tireless efforts and never give up approach. Greatness comes to those who develop a burning desire to achieve high goals. In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure. Give me a man with an average ability but a burning desire to succeed and I will give you a winner in exchange every time. And that is Veerval Kesavan. I am confident that he will not stop here but will progress to bigger things, because that is just what he is – once again I would like to congratulate him on this launch and wish him all the best for his future endeavours.
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 11
Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland मर्यादा परु ु षोत्तम श्री राम चंद्र जी
रामायण जिंदगी को जीने का नजरिया उपदेश सबक प्रदान करती है रामायण की सबसे बड़ी सीख है कि बुराई पर हमेशा अच्छाई की ही जीत होती है । भाइयों का ऐसा प्यार जहां लालच, गुस्सा या विश्वासघात घर नहीं कर पाया, ये एक बड़ा उदाहरण है । एक और जहां लक्ष्मण ने चौदह वर्षों तक भाई श्री राम चंद्र जी के साथ वनवास किया वहीं दस ू रे भाई, कैकयी के पुत्र ने राजगद्दी के अवसर को ठु करा दिया। यह ग्रंथ हमें अच्छी संगति के महत्व को बताता है । कैकयी अपने बेटे भरत से ज्यादा राम को चाहती थी, लेकिन कैकयी, दासी मंथरा की गलत बातों और बुरी सोच में आकर दशरथ जी से श्री राम चंद्र जी के लिए चौदह वर्षों का वनवास मांग लेती है । इसलिए हमें इस से यह सीख मिलती है कि हमें बुरी संगति से बचना चाहिए और एक अच्छी संगति में रहना चाहिए, ताकि नकारात्मकता हम पर हावी न हो। श्री हनुमान जी ने श्री राम चंद्र जी के प्रति अटल विश्वास और प्यार का परिचय दिया। उनकी अपार लग्न और श्री राम चंद्र जी के प्रति निःस्वार्थ सेवा हमें सिखाती है कि एक दोस्त की ज़रूरत के समय किस तरह मदद की जाती है । रावण एक ज्ञानी पुरुष था लेकिन माता सीता का अपहरण करना उसके पतन का कारण बना। इससे पता चलता है कि हम दस ू रे को नुकसान पहुंचाने के चक्कर में बदले की आग में अपने आप को ही जला बैठते हैं । श्री राम चंद्र जी का विनम्र आचरण और अपने से बड़ों और छोटों सबको सम्मान देना हम सबको एक सीख देता है । श्री राम चंद्र जी प्यार, दया और सकारात्मकता की प्रतिमूर्ति हैं और यदि हममें से कोई भी अपने दै निक जीवन में उतार लेता है तो वो खुशहाल और संतुष्ट जीवन जी
सकता है ।श्री राम चंद्र जी का शांत और दया भाव से एक पुत्र, पति, भाई और एक राजा की जिम्मेदारियों का निर्वहन करना हमें आपसी प्रेम और सम्मान जैसे मानवीय गुणों से अवगत कराता है । मर्यादाओं का पालन करने वाले सभी पुरुषों में उत्तम, मर्यादा पुरुषोत्तम, ईश्वर भक्त, वेदों के विद्वान, प्रतिदिन यज्ञ करनेवाले, पिता के समान पुत्रवत ् प्रजा का पालन करने वाले, न्यायकारी, रावण जैसे दष्टों ु को दंड देने वाले, माता-पिता गुरुजनों का सम्मान करने वाले, उनके आदेश निर्दे श का श्रद्धापूर्वक पालन करने वाले, ।आज इस पर्व पर पुरुषोत्तम श्री राम चंद्र जी के जीवन में विद्यमान गुणों में से किसी एक गुण को अवश्य धारण करें । श्री राम चंद्र जी के पावन जन्म दिवस रामनवमी पर हम सब उनके आदर्श चरित्र से प्रेरणा लेकर उनके गुणों को अपने जीवन में धारण करें , इसी में इस दिन को मनाने की सार्थकता है । मर्यादा पुरुषोत्तम श्रीरामचंद्र जी महाराज के जन्मदिवस पर, आप सबको श्री रामनवमी पर्व की बहुत बहुत शुभकामनाएं। धन्यवाद नमस्ते जी ओ३म ्
ब्रह्मचारी, तपस्वी, महाबली महावीर श्री हनम ु ान जी की जयंती भारतीय इतिहास में अनेक विद्वान ् तथा बलवान ् हुए हैं । हनुमान उनमें से एक व्यक्ति थे। उनकी सेवक के रूप में बहुत अच्छी है । उनका जीवन आदर्श ब्रह्मचारी का भी रहा है । महान ् विद्वान ्, ब्रह्मचारी, तपस्वी, महाबली महावीर एक प्रेरक, आदर्श महापुरुष थे। ऋग्वेद, यजुर्वेद और सामवेद तथा संस्कृत व्याकरण वेदों के महान विद्वान,महाबलवान, ब्रह्मचारी, तपस्वी आदित्य ब्रह्मचारी, परम बलवान, चतुर और बुद्धिमान, श्री रामचंद्र जी के परम मित्र और सहायक , वेदों और व्याकरण के पंडित, अंजनी पुत्र सर्वगुण संपन्न महाबाहो हनुमान जी की जयंती
पर शत शत नमन । आज के दिन महावीर हनुमान जी के गुणों को धारण करने का संकल्प लेवें।ओ३म ्
APSQ member Kaushilya Kumar Ji was conferred life membership by Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Queensland Congratulations !. 12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
Patron Re’t Justice Pandit Devendra Pathik “Arya Ratn”
Trustee Mr. Sukarm Pal Singh
Trustee Mr. Mul Chand
President Dr. Sukhvir Singh
Secretary Mr. Hari Chand
TreasurerMrs. Suman Chand
Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre
For further information on Havan Satsang program at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre 198 Learoyd Road Willawong QLD 4110 please contact Vice President Mrs. Sushila Pathik 33146059.
आर्य समाज स्थापना दिवस की हार्दिक शभ ु कामनायें आर्य शब्द का अर्थ है श्रेष्ठ और प्रगतिशील। अतः आर्य समाज का अर्थ हुआ श्रेष्ठ और प्रगतिशीलों का समाज, जो वेदों के अनुकूल चलने का प्रयास करते हैं , दस ू रों को वेदों के अनुकूल चलने को प्रेरित करते हैं । आर्यसमाज के नियम और सिद्धांत प्राणीमात्र के कल्याण के लिए हैं संसार का उपकार करना इस समाज का मुख्य उद्दे श्य है , अर्थात ् शारीरिक, आत्मिक और सामाजिक उन्नति करना। आर्य समाज में शुद्ध वैदिक परम्परा में विश्वास करते वेद पढ़ने का अधिकार सब को हैं आर्य समाज का आदर्श वाक्य है : कृ ण्वन्तो विश्वमार्यम ् , जिसका अर्थ है - विश्व को श्रेष्ठ और प्रगतिशीलों बनाते चलो।
आर्यसमाजियों के आदर्श मर्यादा पुरुषोत्तम श्री राम चंद्र जी और योगिराज श्री कृ ष्ण चंद्र जी महर्षि स्वामी दयानंद सरस्वती जी हैं । महर्षि दयानंद जी ने उसी वेद मत को फिर से स्थापित करने के लिए आर्य समाज की नींव रखी। आर्य समाज के सब सिद्धांत और नियम वेदों पर आधारित हैं । आर्य समाज सच्चे ईश्वर की पूजा करने को कहता है , यह ईश्वर सब मनुष्यों को उनके कर्मानुसार फल देता है , अगला जन्म देता है । आर्य समाज के अनुसार यज्ञ करना हर आर्य का कर्त्तव्य है । परमात्मा हम जीवात्माएं और परमाणुओं अनादि काल से हैं । परमात्मा परमाणुओं को गति दे कर
सृष्टि रचता है । आत्माओं को कर्म करने के लिए प्रेरित करता है । आर्य समाज के मान्यताएँ में ईश्वर का सर्वोत्तम और निज नाम ओ३म ् है । उसमें अनंत गुण होने के कारण उसके ब्रह्मा, महे श, विष्णु, गणेश, देवी, अग्नि अनंत नाम हैं । आर्य समाज वर्ण व्यवस्था यानी ब्राह्मण, क्षत्रिय, वैश्य व शूद्र को कर्म से मानता है । स्वामी स्वामी दयानन्द जी ने वैदिक सिद्धान्तों को व्यावहारिकता देने, वैदिक धर्म को फैलाने तथा विश्व को जाग्रत करने के लिए जिस संस्था की स्थापना की उस आर्य समाज के हम सदस्य हैं । महर्षि दयानन्द जी ने ऐसा मंच दिया जो पुरे विश्व संसार की दिशा और दशा सुधारने में सक्रिय हो
उठे । स्वामी दयानंद सरस्वती तथा उनके द्वारा स्थापित आर्य समाज के सभी मौलिक सिद्धांतों का परिचय हमें उनके महान ग्रंथ सत्यार्थ प्रकाश में मिलता है । आर्यसमाज का सदस्य बनना भी एक गौरव जिम्मेदारी दायित्व की बात होती क्योंकि आर्यसमाज के सदस्य का चरित्र अत्यन्त प्रेरणादायक, सत्यवादी, ईमानदार, विश्वास योग्य, भरोसेमंद, राष्ट्रवादी, ईश्वरवादी व शुद्ध समाजवादी होता है । प्रत्येक आर्य अपने आप में चलता फिरता - वैदिक धर्म का बिगुल बजाने वाला आर्यसमाज है । आर्य समाज स्थापना दिवस की बहुतबहुत बधाई हार्दिक शुभकामनायें जी ओ३म
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 13
FIJI GIRMITIYAS: ORDINARY PEOPLE WHO DID EXTRAORDINARY THINGS IN EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES Professor Brij V. Lal
[Transcript and translation from Hindi by Thakur Ranjit Singh] This speech in Auckland New Zealand was delivered 7 years ago, but still valid today. It may have been published before, but is worth repeating again...and again, especially during the months when we are marking Girmit Day
Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT Indo-Fijians or what some
call Fiji Indians is a different breed of people, distinct from Indians, with own culture, language, decorum and demeanour. What I marvel at is how ordinary people did extraordinary things in extraordinary circumstances. We, their descendants, have inherited those traits and legacy of our forebears. And that is that even in difficult circumstances, we never give up and we never compromise. There is a kind of dignity within us, where did it come from? It comes from people who travelled thousands of miles in difficult circumstances, but never gave up. This is the legacy of Girmit that I think we are celebrating. We hail our forebears-our Girmitiyas – Professor Brij Lal PROFESSOR BRIJ LAL CLARIFIES OUR HISTORY, REMOVES MISCONCEPTIONS, AND IMPLORES FIJI INDIANS TO RECORD THEIR CURRENT HISTORY This evening I am happy as well as pleasantly amazed to see so many of you. Happy because you have all come here and started a new life, which appears to be quite prosperous. Amazed because some two decades ago, such an occasion would have been impossible because of our fewer numbers then. We have come from humble beginning, I, hailing from Tabia, Labasa, being a poor cane-farmer’s son, whose parents were not formally educated. My father had 10 acres of farmland, which now has been reserved and taken away. We came from a so-called era of “darkness”, without internet, IPad, e-mail or mobiles. We did not have Facebook or Twitter. Youngsters nowadays equate that with days of darkness, as they cannot live without these modern inventions and gadgets. Therefore, we the generation of Fiji Girmit descendants should be thankful for what we are today. In 1987, we celebrated the 108th anniversary of girmit in Fiji. Then, our Indo-Fijian population was 50%, today it is a mere 34% and getting smaller. Now, magnets and our centre of gravity have changed, they are now Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne, Calgary, Brisbane, Vancouver, Sacramento and so on. The irony is that between 1879 and 1916, some 60,000 Girmitiyas came to Fiji, but from 1987 to now, some 120,000 people have left the country – twice the
Professor Brij Lal delivering his speech in Auckland in May, 2014. This article is an English version of that speech
Professor Brij Lal with Thakur Ranjit Singh
Leonidas, the ship which brought first Indentured Indians to Fiji.
Bansi, grandfather of Thakur who came to Fiji as an indentured labourer in 1915 from Karouli, Rajasthan number. This demographic transformation is a fundamental development, this exodus of our people from Fiji. But to see all these people doing so well overseas is very pleasing and a wonderful thing. We need to appreciate that we went into Fiji through immigration, and came out through emigration. So, the history of our people will have a theme: from immigration to emigration: the history of Fiji Indians. Many people in decades to come may find it hard to believe that in the recent past, Indo-Fijians comprised 50% of Fiji’s population. I recall my days in rural Labasa in the 1960s. My girmitiya grandfather used to socialise on a regular basis with other girmitiyas at our place. As a kid, I wondered, who these funnily-dressed, strange and unusual people were, speaking in a language that we did not understand. I wondered who they were and how they ended up in Fiji. Then, in 1970 I went to University of the South Pacific (USP) and later in 1977 when I went to do my PhD at the Australian National University (ANU), I had not forgotten these people. Then I decided to do a research on girmitiyas and find out: who were they, how and why they came to Fiji, under what condition and how they maintained their tradition, culture, language, religion and way of life. You may appreciate that during the 1970s and before, there was very little written on girmitiyas or on Fiji. All the material was there in the
14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
archives, but there was little research. All the information about the girmitiyas was there in the Emigration Passes: next of kin, caste, where the immigrants were registered, what their districts of origin were, their age. Sixty thousand people came, 45,000 were from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Calcutta and nearby areas and 15,000 people after 1903 from Madras. In six months, I analysed the 45,000 Passes in a dark room at the National Library of Australia, 12 hours a day, viewing microfiche in a dark room, coded them and analysed through the computer. That was a novel experience then. Computers were giant, humming machines; there were no PCs. In those days there was an impression abroad and we were made to believe that the girmitiyas were like the flotsam and jetsam of humanity, people from the lowest strata of society. The British system made us believe this lie, the underpinning of colonial thinking was that since we were from the lowest caste, we did not deserve equal rights, we deserved the lower treatment, and whatever crumbs we got we should be thankful for that. However my research showed that Indians who came to Fiji represented a fair cross-section of rural Indian society- people who came from Indo- Gangetic plains, from Bihar and nearby areas. People who came were of all caste: upper, middle, lower and so on. Because of that research, wherever you go in
Indian Indenture Diaspora, people cite this research to show that they deserve better. Hence the mind-set of the people changed. And then, finding out where they were from. I spent one year in India and visited places where our people were from: Baharaich, Faizabaad, Gonda, Gorakhpur, Sultanpur, Azamgarh, Balia, Ghazipur, I have been to all these areas. I wanted to know why they left India. We are told that people were tricked and misled into coming to Fiji. This is true to some extent. But after living with the people, talking to them at length, I found out that Indians were on the move, in search of employment, within India, going to big cities with industries like Assam, Calcutta, Mumbai etc. Hence the idea of moving out to seek employment was nothing new to people from this part of the world. The people who moved out of India formed this mass of humanity who were out to seek employment. They thought Fiji was somewhere near Calcutta and they could easily come back after earning for five years. The idea of our people migrating permanently was not in their heads. But once they had been out, they developed attachments to people and place, and were wondering what the reception would be if they returned to their villages. These were among some of the reasons why our people stayed back in Fiji. Suicide There were other subjects on which I did research and wrote short articles. One of them was “suicide”. In 1900, suicide rate among the Indian immigrants in Fiji was among the highest in the world, certainly compared to all the places where Indian indentured labourers went.
We were made to believe that women were the main cause of this, as there were fewer in number, and they changed their partners for gold jewellery. They were like mercenaries. Knowing Indian women, I found this hard to believe. Hence I did further research and sought information from a Suicide Register kept at National Archives in Fiji. These recorded, among others, when the people who committed suicide came to Fiji, at what age, when they were married, and how they died: things of that sort. There were some 200 cases of suicide between 1884 and 1920, and my research showed conclusively that blaming women was a gross misconception. What I found out was that the major cause was their disillusionment and despair with life on the plantations. They had come with high hopes of earning money, and the environment they found themselves in became unbearable, and hence they decided to end their lives. My other paper was “Kunti’s cry”, the experience of Indian women on the plantations. The other topics I studied were strikes and resistance, disease, death and so on. They are therein my 400 page book “Chalo Jahaji” which I am leaving behind in your library for people to read. One of my life’s ambition has been to remember what others have forgotten or chosen to forget – to give our people a voice and a modicum of humanity, to give them a place at the table of history. We need to remind the new generation about our history: history doesn’t only belong to the victors but to the vanquished as well. One thing I have done in life before I go is to give these voiceless
people a voice-a sense of place, a sense of purpose. People will remember this aspect by history. I do not celebrate struggles and sacrifices and sufferings of our people. What I marvel at is how ordinary people did extraordinary things in extraordinary circumstances. We, their descendants, have inherited those traits and legacy of our forebears. And that is that even in difficult circumstances, we never give up and we never compromise. There is a kind of dignity within us, where did it come from? It comes from people who travelled thousands of miles in difficult circumstances, but never gave up. This is the legacy of Girmit that I think we are celebrating, not those horrible things we read in books many years ago. Now, to my final pointour Girmit. In a sense this is our Girmit, really we are new Girmitiyas in the Indian Diaspora. The difference is that instead of coming in sailing and later steamships, we came via aeroplanes, but we are also starting afresh in a new country in new circumstances. In my schooldays, we were discouraged from doing history. My teacher said History was for “no-hopers’. Good people do science, so we never bothered to ask the old timers about our past, we were embarrassed about our past, we did not want to be reminded of our long journey. Now when we want to know, they are gone. Now you are here, we will need to answer to our new generation about our story. That is why I implore you to put your thoughts down on paper, on videos. Our people are very resourceful, we are rich, earn money, have big houses, but we are poor because we do not preserve our history, and have that hollowness within us. Preserve your memories, write your own stories, even do it on video if you are not a writer; without memories, we are nothing. You, the elders of the community, have a responsibility to yourselves, to your children and grandchildren - to preserve the memories of our stories, Girmit is over, but your stories and memories have to be preserved. The final point is: If we do not do this, who will? Thank you very much. [Hindi Speech by Professor Brij Lal at Calvary Indian Assembly of Church, Otahuhu, Auckland , New Zealand on 17 May, 2014 during occasion of marking Fiji Girmit Remembrance Day. Transcribed and translated from digital voice recording for FIJI PUNDIT blog site, by Thakur Ranjit Singh, Founding Trustee of FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION, NEW ZEALAND. E-mail:thakurjifj@gmail.com
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Surdas - The Devotional Poet Surdas was a poet and singer who composed and sang devotional poems dedicated to lord Krishna in Brajabhasha, a vernacular of Hindi. In his own compositions, he has been identified as Surdas, Surajdas, Sur and Surshyam. Scant information is available in his compositions to frame a legible biography of Surdas. External sources are used to create a profile of his life and work, but they offer conflicting details, and consequently profiles derived from them are not unanimously accepted. All scholars agree that Vallabhacharya, the main proponent Acharya of Pushtimarg Sect of Vaishnaivism, initiated Surdas to his tradition. Pushtimarg is also known as Rudra Vaishnav Sampraday. It stresses on devotion to lord Krishna for attaining spiritual merits. His philosophy has spread in many regions of India. Modern rendering of Shree Bhaktamal, a book composed by Nabhadas in late sixteenth century, and its commentary entitled Rasbodhani by Priyadas, has compiled Surdas’ biographical details, which are in agreement with his profile in literatures of the Pushtimarg tradition. According to Bhaktamal, Surdas was born in a village named Sihi near Delhi in Vikram Samvat 1535 (AD 1478). He was born blind. He was named Surdas, a term commonly used to refer to a blind person. As the baby grew, he acquired specific abilities to compose and sing songs. His father used to take Surdas to his clients during his visits to perform religious discourses. During such events, Surdas sang devotional songs beautifully, and impressed his audiences. They rewarded him with gifts and recognitions. Over time, he also gained and cultivated a talent of prescience for locating missing objects. Despite his unusual and amazing traits, his family members became indifferent to him. They assumed him to be a potential burden on them for life. Surdas became aware of strained relationships in the family due to him. He decided to leave and devote his time in the service of God. He moved out from his house and started living under a Peepal tree, ficus religiosa, away from his village. Living alone under the tree, he used to sing devotional songs and chant prayers. He also addressed queries from local villagers, who came to him to seek help in finding missing objects. His responses normally proved accurate. Obliged by his services, people brought food and other essential items that supported his existence.
Once a landlord came to him seeking his assistance in finding his cattle. Surdas foretold him the location of the missing animal, which proved to be precise. The landlord became pleased and built a hut for him. Surdas became popular as Pragyachkshu, the one who sees through knowledge. News of his skills in composing and singing verses and also in foretelling spread widely. People flocked around him to listen to his songs and for help in locating their lost properties. He became admired in the region. A number of people became his devoted followers and assisted him in daily routines. Surdas was about eighteen years old at this stage. He sensed that he was getting entangled in worldly affairs. He had left home to devote time to spirituality but became busy in gaining fame and followers by spending time on mundane activities. He realised that it would not be possible for him to change the course of his activities while living in the current place, as he had become too well known. He decided to move away from there. He came to Mathura but he did not feel comfortable there. He moved to Renukakshetra, now known as Runkata on the AgraMathura road. At Runkata, he came into contact with saints and other religious persons, and gained spiritual insight. However, he felt overwhelmed, as the place lacked peaceful environment. From Runkata, he relocated to Gau Ghat on the banks of River Yamuna. There he learnt formal skills in poetry and music. He continued composing and singing verses. His reputation as a devotional singer spread widely and he became well respected among the religious communities. Vallabhacharya was on pilgrimage to the Braj-ksetra. During his pilgrimage, he temporarily stayed near Gau Ghat. He had heard of Surdas who
16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
was living in the same area. He wished to see him. Surdas also learnt about him and desired to meet the Acharya. Surdas went to Vallabhacharya to offer his respect to him. The Acharya welcomed him and expressed his wish to listen to his compositions. Surdas obliged gratefully and sang a prayer poem, which portrayed him very humble and helpless person. Vallabhacharya was impressed by his performance and praised him for his talent. He asked him to use his genius in the service of Krishna by composing and singing his glories and pastime. Surdas expressed his lack of proper knowledge of Krishna and his activities. Vallabhacharya initiated Surdas into his sect. He familiarised him with his Subodhani commentary of Bhagavat Puran and narrated him stories from it. Learning about Krishna’s pastime delighted Surdas. He started composing and singing verses relating to Krishna’s activities. Soon Vallabhacharya moved to Gokul. Surdas accompanied him. Surdas visited the Krishna temple daily for Darshan of the deity Navneetpriya, butter lover. Navneetpriya is one of Krishna’s names common in the Pushtimarg tradition. It relates to Krishna’s preference for butter during his childhood. Vallabhacharya preferred worshipping the child form of Krishna. Surdas composed original verses relating to Krishna and sang them in the temple. From Gokul, Surdas came to Govardhan Hills along with Vallabhacharya. There he worshiped the deity in the Shrinathji temple. Shrinathji is also another name of Krishna. The environment in and around the temple impressed Surdas. He decided to stay in close proximity of the temple and devote his time in the service of Shrinathji. He set up his residence in a place called Parasoli near lake Chandra-Sarovar. He
visited Shrinathji daily and sang his newly composed verses in the temple. During a travel alone, Surdas fell into a deep pit and stayed there for days. He remained hopeful and chanted prayers to Krishna, who appeared before him in person and pulled him out of the pit by holding his hand. After getting him out of the ditch, Krishna tried to free his hand, but Surdas held it tightly, and informed him that now he would never leave him. Surdas accepted the Nirgun form, the form without attribute, of God but he preferred to worship the Sagun form, the form with physical attributes. Krishna in his childhood and adolescent forms was his adorable God. After Vallabhacharya, his son Vitthal Gosain became leader of the Pushtimarg sect. His preferred deity was adolescent Krishna. Vitthal established a team of poets known as Ashtachhap, eight marked poets who composed devotional songs for the sect. Surdas became the chief Ashtachhap. He was designated the main singer of devotional songs at the temple. Surdas came in contact with other saints and poets of Pushtimarg sect at the temple. They contributed to compiling his compositions and disseminated them far and wide. His poems, being in local dialect, were easy to remember and sing. His compositions became popular widely in North India. Once, Tansen, Akbar’s court poet, sang Surdas’ composition in his court. Akbar was highly impressed by the song and desired Surdas sing for him in person. A meeting was arranged and he met Surdas in VS 1623. Akbar listened to Surdas’ melodic performance glorifying Krishna and praised him for enhancing the spiritual tradition through his songs. On one occasion Surdas went to Gokul to visit the Navneetpriya temple. Shree Giridhar, son of Vitthal Gosain was in charge of the
temple. He wanted to test Surdas’ ability to foretell. He decorated the idol of the deity in the temple with ornaments without normal dress, and asked Surdas to describe the beauty of the deity. Surdas sensed the style of decoration and described it in verses that truly depicted its opulence in unusual adornment. Giridhar felt ashamed of his action and realised his folly. Surdas continued singing songs in Shrinath temple until the end of his life. One day Vitthal did not find him in the temple. He went to Surdas’ residence to enquire about his health. He found him on his deathbed. Surdas left his mortal body in the lap of Vitthal at the age eighty-five years. In the words of Vallabhacharya, Surdas was a sea of devotion. According to Vitthal, he was a ship of Pushtimarg. Surdas had detailed knowledge of the Pushtimarg philosophy. He is believed to be an incarnation of Krishna’s friend Uddhav. He came to Earth to spread Krishna’s glory in the age of Kali. Following the preferences of Pushtimarg Acharyas Vallabhacharya and Vitthal, Surdas focussed on describing pastimes of Krishna’s childhood and adolescence. Surdas composed around 1.25 lakhs of poems during his creative life. Most of his poems are lost. His work is divided into three groups that include poems composed before initiation to Pushtimarg; those composed during the lifetime of Vallabhacharya; and those during the period of Vitthal. Initial creations were mostly prayer songs. During his association with Acharyas, his work focussed on describing Krishna’s pastimes. He also wrote poems based on other texts including the Ramayan, Mahabharat and Purans. Sursagar, Sur Saravali and Sahitya Lahari are three books that are authentic compilations of his work. A number of other books are also credited to him, but scholars disagree on that assertion. Sursagar is his most popular book that contains around 5,400 poems. It includes detailed descriptions of Krishna’s life mostly based on the Bhagavat Puran. Details relating to child Krishna stealing butter from Gopis’ houses, teasing them and his playful behaviour with mother Yashoda are vividly described in Sursagar. Krishna’s cattle grazing, his destruction of various demons, lifting Govardhan Hills, subduing Kaliya serpent and other activities are portrayed to demonstrate his divine status. Surdas introduced Radha, the female partner of Krishna, in his composition. Radha did not appear as a specific character in the
Bhagavat Puran. However, poets such as Vidyapati, Jaidev and Chandidas had introduced her as Krishna’s lover in their compositions previously. Surdas followed the tradition established by these poets and described Radha and Krishna as lovers. Radha attained the status of Lakshmi through her association with Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu. The poems describing affairs between them are full of Shringar Ras or romantic love. After Krishna moved from Vrindavan to Mathura, he sent his friend Uddhav to console his Gopi friends and elders. The dialogues between Gopis and him related to understanding the divine nature of Krishna and his pastime in Vrindavan as a son of Nand and Yashoda. Sursagar also contains sections relating to Dwarka and events from the Ramayan and other legends from Purans. Descriptions of minute details of Krishna’s pastime and activities in his work led many scholars to believe that Surdas could not have been blind from birth. An alternate profile has also been written. According to this profile, his original name was Bilvamangal. He was a married man but maintained strong attachment to a Ganika, female dancer named Chintamani. His family unsuccessfully tried to dissuade him from her. Later, Chintamani rebuked him for his wild attachment to her and neglectful behaviour towards his own family. Disappointed at her treatment, Bilvamangal left her and went away to become a Sadhu, holy man. However, his love towards Chintamani did not fade. Once he saw a lady in a temple. He followed her to her home assuming her to be Chintamani. When he realised his idiocy, he blamed his own eyes for his distraction. He pricked his both eyes with needles and became a blind man, Surdas. Subsequent events follow almost a similar narrative as described earlier. Surdas remains one of most popular devotional poets dedicated to Krishna. Several films have been made on the life of Surdas. Delhi Doordarshan had broadcast a TV serial on the life of Surdas. Surdas’ work is an important source for Raslila, a popular folklore dance displaying activities performed by Krishna, Radha and other Gopis. His compositions are also found in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs. Surdas’ poems remain incredibly popular even now and are chanted by religious devotees, professional as well as amateur singers and common public during private and public cultural and religious events. —Awadhesh Sharma
Canterbury College Blasts Into Awards Contention Canterbury College is thrilled to announce it has been nominated as national finalists in an unprecedented five categories of the 2021 Australian Education Awards.
Canterbury has been nominated amongst the country’s 9,542 schools for: • Secondary School of the Year • Primary School Principal of the Year (NonGovernment) – Bill Garland • Secondary School Teacher of the Year (NonGovernment) – Nick Gillin • Best CoCurricular Program – Canterbury Centre for Entrepreneurship & Leadership • Best School Strategic Plan This Australian Education Awards in Sydney will bring together school principals, department heads and industry leaders to celebrate excellence in K-12 education. The event recognises leading schools, principals, department heads and teachers for their contribution to the industry over the past 12 months – especially in the changed environment and challenges brought on by COVID-19.
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Canterbury College Campus Aerial
Canterbury College Principal Dan Walker Canterbury Principal Mr Dan Walker was extremely proud when the list of category finalists was released today ahead of final judging in late August. “This major recognition,
Canterbury College Campus Generic
across all areas of the College’s programs, is only possible due to the ongoing efforts of all of Canterbury’s teaching and corporate services staff,” Mr Walker said.
“Congratulations in particular to Nick Gillin and Bill Garland for their individual recognition, with Nick’s passion for Science and Maths teaching evident to us
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every day, and Bill’s outstanding leadership of one of Australia’s fastest growing junior schools.” “If you are a Canterbury parent, you can be further reassured that your child or
children are in some of the best educational hands in Australia as judged by The Educator industry body. If you are not a Canterbury parent, get in touch, come check us out.” “We knew we had one of the best, biggest and most diverse Co-Curricular Programs in Queensland, if not Australia, but also being in the running as having the Best School Strategic Plan, shows that Canterbury’s future is only getting better.” Winning Secondary School of the Year would serve as an enormous milestone as Canterbury strives to become one of Australia’s leading private ELC-12 colleges servicing the fast-growing southern Brisbane and northern Gold Coast catchments. You can read the list of 2021 finalists in each category at - www. educatorawards.com Winners will be announced at the gala awards dinner on Friday 27 August 2021 in Sydney. Media Contact: For more information or to request interviews please contact: Stephen Buckley – Director of Communications & Engagement Mobile: 0401 086 387 Email: s.buckley@ canterbury.qld.edu.au
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 17
Australia Dispatches Medical Supplies to India delivered essential medical supplies to India as part of initial package of support to the Indian Government’s programme for combatting the country’s current COVID-19 outbreak. A chartered Qantas flight departed Sydney carrying supplies to meet the needs identified by the Government of India including 1056 ventilators and 43 oxygen concentrators. This will allow Indian frontline workers to provide lifesaving medical interventions. These Australian donated supplies will be distributed by the Indian Red Cross and local authorities to ensure support reaches those in
Australia
greatest need. The Morrison Government is working closely with state
and territory governments and the private sector on the urgent deployment of further
emergency supplies to India. Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for
Women, Senator the Hon Marise Payne said that as close friends and strategic partners, Australia and India will stand together during this challenging time. “India has shown great leadership and generosity to the world in exporting vaccines globally. It is time for the world to repay that generosity and Australia as a close friend of the Indian people is playing its part,” Minister Payne said. “We express our solidarity and deepest support with India as it responds to this ongoing crisis and recognise how difficult this time is for Indians and Australians in India and their loved ones.”
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the Government had offered a significant package of support to the Indian Government. “We are deeply passionate about supporting people in India, which is why we have reached out to support with medical supplies such as oxygen, ventilators and PPE,” Minister Hunt said. “At the same time we are working on plans to resume travel from India to support Australians to get home.” Australia’s High Commission and Consulates in India continue to provide consular assistance to Australians in need.
Community standing together in solidarity for India CONTD. FROM PG 1 good, Lord Mayor Adrian Schinner was overly impressed and pledged $10,000-00 donation for the victims via Indian Red Cross, at the next council meeting in the chambers he made a special mention of the event. So, while the primary purpose was not fundraising, the event contributed $10,000-00 towards the relief efforts. The event began with the tradition welcome to country by Aunty Betty McGrady, indigenous Elder representing Queensland Multicultural Council, this was followed by the delightful rendition of Australian and Indian National Anthem by students of Sargam Music Academy under the tutelage of Mithun and Bondita Chakraborty, this was followed by the welcome address by Umesh Chandra OAM following is the extract from his speech. “Thank you. It is good to see so many gathered here in the embrace of community. Something life transforming has happened to us. Ordinary words fail us. Yet it is impossible to remain mute ...so I offer these thoughts of outreach as we assemble together.... This candlelight vigil is, for India as we stand united in solidarity to show our support, a remembrance of others - so many others. Our candles soon to be lit — bright and flaming, yet small and all too extinguishable — will burn this wonderful autumn evening, with many emotions: There is sadness and grief at the loss we feel - so shocking in its horror, so great in its numbers, and so gripping in its connection to each of us.
This is a time of wanting to be able to reach out, to do something - to relieve the hurt of those afflicted. There is admiration for the breathtaking courage of men and women caught up in the middle of this terror. The courage of frontline workers and medical staff who did their duty, and in so doing lost their lives. And now the courage of those who lost friends, loved ones, family, as they struggle through the long, aching and all-consuming moments that have become
18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
the present measure of their lives. For many of us, perhaps most of us, there is the awakened sense of personal vulnerability Now we all live in a different place with a different sense of vulnerability, a diminished sense of security and the frightening knowledge of a world pandemic And while so many innocent lives were lost, that we recognize that the daily dangers of the rest of the world are our dangers
also now... These deaths also are so unsettling, reminding us, as it does, of both our personal and our national insecurity. There is a sense we all share, not only of the horror and tragedy of the past days, but of something new and frightening something that may not have touched most of us directly, but that we sense could touch us all. It is new, it is deadly, it is random and it lives in the dark shadows of anonymity.
Today, right now, we can give this personal vow in tribute to those whose lives were so cruelly cut short. Today we can choose, in the light of what our candles mean, to take another's hand, lift another's burden or simply acknowledge another's worth. Today we can newly consider that word "love." Not the possession of a single religious belief. Not a cheap nor a shallow emotion debased by commercialism and popular entertainment, but the most risky, profound, yet fragile glue of our common humanity. Love illuminates the often-hidden paths of who we are. It finds ways for our paths to connect with the paths of others, and it allows us to - live - not alone, but with others. Even today, that wonderful aim - "hoping to do a little good," can guide us through and beyond the smoke and dangers of today. This also is a time to call again for moral clarity. A time for us not to be ashamed of our values. A time to understand even more clearly what we believe ... and proudly to affirm, live and act upon those beliefs.” He also went through the long list of dignitaries present, he thanked all the supporting organizations, After His address Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner spoke and announced the donation of $10,000-00 to Indian Red Cross, the announcement was well received and applauded, Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner was also in attendance and was acknowledged as the patron of GOPIO Queensland Women’s Council, After Lord Mayor’s speech, Honorary Counsel
for India in Queensland, Mrs. Archana Singh addressed the gathering, she was particularly pleased to see the united front. After her address, the faith representatives lead everyone into prayers, Swami Atmeshananda represented Hindu Faith, Ali Kadri represented Islamic Faith, Parminder Singh represented Sikh faith and community and Pastor John Thomas represented Christian Community. The concluding speech/ remarks was by Dr Vikas Mudgill of IMAQ on behalf of the frontline workers who have been braving the situation and assisting everyone in the crisis. We would like to place on record the assistance of Megan Tolhurst, Julie MacIntosh, Trish Levey and the ground staff of Brisbane city Council for making this happen, we had the City hall Lighted in Indian Colors and the flag of India was displayed on the large screen, Brisbane Indian Times for the poster design and promotion, Australian Indian Radio for the sound, staging and promo, GOPIO Queensland for providing Water, small flags, placards, led tealight candles, ushering VIPS etc. Dev from Narula Photo and Video production and many organizations and individuals who shared and promoted the event on social media platforms. It was so good to see so many people take ownership of the event on social media, lord Mayor was every popular for photographs and selfies. Overall a wellorganized and attended function, impressive and respectful gathering in the spirit of unity. On behalf of all supporting organizations my sincere thanks to all attended and supported in any which way.
Ghazals dominate Music Junction
the huge success of the ghazal show by Arnab and Annie Biswas from Kolkata, Aprils Music junction was once again ghazal based, Janab Rahim Zullah featured in this segment, the show was hosted by RJ Savi. Janab Rahim Zullah is an accomplished singer and music guru based in Brisbane. Rahim Zullah was born in Suva, Fiji. He music comes from a family of music lovers with its
Following
roots in Indian classical music. With three CDs to his credit – Fiji Ka Safar (A Fijian Journey) Vol. 1 & 2, and Music Masala – a spicy blend of Brisbane’s musicians, released and recorded by Radio 4EB; Rahim’s goal is to impart his experience and training to music lovers of all cultural backgrounds, to ensure that the tradition of Indian music remains alive in Australia and to encourage and support such music lovers
on the path of the sound of music. In the music Junction live segment, he chose all the melodious numbers from his album “Zaheer” and at the time of publication had over 112K views, with extremely good reviews and comments. A very well-presented show by R J Savi complemented by a very talented Janab Rahim Zullah saheb, if you haven’t watched it yet, it’s worth watching you will not be disappointed.
Rahim Zullah was born in Suva, Fiji. He music comes from a family of music lovers with its roots in Indian classical music. With three CDs to his credit – Fiji Ka Safar (A Fijian Journey) Vol. 1 & 2, and Music Masala – a spicy blend of Brisbane’s musicians, released and recorded by Radio 4EB; Rahim’s goal is to impart his experience and training to music lovers of all cultural backgrounds, to ensure that the tradition of Indian music remains alive in Australia and to encourage and support such music lovers on the path of the sound of music.
Kavita ji
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 19
Ram Naumi Celebrations at Gayatri Mandir
Ram Naumi was celebrated
with great fervour and dedication at the Gayatri Mandir. Each evening was commenced with pooja, offerings to Shree Ramji, bhajans and kirtans, followed by Ramayan Path and parvachan delivered by Pundit Praveen Shandil, supported by Pundit Brijesh Maharaj ji and Pundit Suresh Shandil ji. Each evening concluded with aarti followed by mahaprashad. The nine day long celebrations was attended by many devotees, and an outstanding viewing interest was noticed on our Facebook Page. Numerous devotees followed the daily programme that streamed LIVE on Facebook. We would
Preparations for daily pooja like to extend our gratitude to all our followers and viewers for their continued support during the celebrations. Devotees who attended the celebration at Gayatri Mandir graced the occasion dressed in colourful traditional attire. Many of our donors, sponsors and supporters rendered their unconditional
‘sewa’ throughout the entire celebrations. It was also an honour to have Mt Surendra Prasad and the Senior Citizens bless the occasion with their presence. Hindu Society of Queensland would like to thank you all for your assistance. We appreciate your ongoing support.
Senior Citizens honoured during Ram Naumi Celebrations at Gayatri Mandir
Upcoming Events at Gayatri Mandir Maas Shivratri : 10 May ( Every month) Akhand Sunderkand 29 May (Last Saturday of each month 6.30pm to 8.30pm) For donation or sponsorship, please contact Treasurer Anit Ram on 0452470467
Mandalis create atmosphere
Rotary 100 Celebrations in Kelvin Grove LIVE coverage by Australian Indian Radio KELVIN GROVE, District 9600 and District 9630, jointly hosted Rotary 100 Celebrations at McCaskie Park, Kelvin Grove. The open fair festival style event was held on the 17th April from 9:00 am till 3:00pm. The event included Multicultural food festival and performances and stalls by participating Rotary clubs within the districts. In a lead up to the event, past district Governor Jitendra Prasad said, “It’s a special time. Together, we have spent 100 years making a difference to the lives and destinies of generations; an extraordinary milestone deserving of reflection, celebration and immense pride. Nation-building projects, international transformations and overcoming local disadvantage is our legacy.
The story for the 38,000 Rotarians spread across our combined nations continues; perpetually making the world close to home and abroad a better place. In 1921, four Rotary Clubs were created in Melbourne, Auckland, Wellington and Sydney. From there, Rotary and Rotaract clubs were created everywhere across Australia and NZ. We all share a centenary in 2021. We can come together and create a common legacy.” Australian Indian Radio proudly sponsored the Facebook and YouTube LIVE streaming of the event from the venue. The stream has had over 145K views. It is two segments and worth watching. So, if you have not watched it so far, please visit either of the channels to view the popular coverage.
In a lead up to the event, past district Governor Jitendra Prasad said, “It’s a special time. Together, we have spent 100 years making a difference to the lives and destinies of generations; an extraordinary milestone deserving of reflection, celebration and immense pride. 20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 21
‘GIRMITIYAS’ - THE LEGENDS OF EDUCATION By Sarat Maharaj YES, they were the legends on many fronts, not only education, as recorded in history of Fiji Islands since 14 May 1879. But, before going into those in detail, here is a preamble to commemorations and celebrations. Later in this piece is how and why International Congress for Fiji Inc (ICFI) has maintained the legacy of our ‘Girmitiyas’. On 25 April 2021, Australia and New Zealand commemorated 103rd anniversary of the 1st World War ending. In Gallipoli, 60,000 armed personnel were engaged. There were 26,000 casualties, and 7594 died. Out of the first 60 Native Fijians recruited, 31 were wounded and 9 died. Records indicate that no Fiji Indian was recruit-ed, although Indians were in Fiji since 1879. The criteria of the British recruitment authority was to accept peo-ple who were ‘British subjects of pure British descent’. Not sure what that definition meant ! Having said that, 16,000 Indians from mainland India fought at Gallipoli, but their part in the campaign is often forgotten. Military historian, Rana Chhina, says Indian infantry and artillery were vital to the struggle, while Indi-an mule drivers toiled under heavy fire to keep the ANZACS supplied with vital food, water, and ammunitions. Similarly, the contribution by Indians to Fiji’s economic and its overall development has not been recognised to an extent it deserved. This year, it will be 142 years since the first Indians were brought to Fiji by the British Co-lonialists from India.
First boat-load arrived on 14 May 1879, hence the need to commemorate ‘The First Land-ing’ of the ‘Girmitiyas’. For those readers who may not be familiar with this history, well, here is just a brief ex-cerpt from several books which have been written, many in volumes. That’s how it all happened. When Great Britain formally colonised Fiji on 10 October 1874, they set-up a strategic plan to turn Fiji into an economic base for self-sustainability. Most land at that time was just virgin forests. Britain appointed Sir Arthur Gordon as governor of Fiji, who hired CSR (Colonial Sugar Refinery) company of Australia to introduce sugarcane farming in many parts of Fiji. Governor, Sir Arthur Gordon soon established that clearing virgin forests and planting sugarcane was not something the native Fijians could or would do successfully. Fijians were used to their subsistence living off the sea and some backyard gardening. Since India at that time was also under the British colonial rule, Sir Arthur asked Britain to bring Indians from India under an ‘Indentured Labour Scheme’, a diplomatic term for ‘Slavery’. First lot of 463 Indians arrived on vessel Leonidas in Levuka, on the Island of Ovalau, the first capital town of Fiji. Later, more than 61,000 more Indians were brought in to work on the farms. The British made them sign an agreement for five years, after which they could choose to go back to India, if they wished or ‘if they could’! Knowing little English at that time, the Indians called the word ‘Agreement’ as ‘Girmit’.
Graduating students from TAFE college They were made to live in barracks/workers’-camps of tiny enclosures, with no inhouse amenities. Despite the deplorable living condi-tions and ‘one-shilling’ (10cents) a day payment for a 14-16 hour day’s hard work on the farms, most of these Indians still prevailed. Some died from diseases, whilst many who questioned the living & working conditions, were either shot or hung by the Australian farm-overseers, with no one to question them. Today Fiji is left with only three out of five large sugar mills, with sugar being the main export industry for Fiji. Here is another link on Indians in Fiji: http://girmit. org/ for your information. As I said in the beginning, it is a long and sad story told by many writers and historians. But, those who survived the tyranny of the British regime, they put Fiji on the world map. Our ancestors, in cooperation with our Fijian brothers and sisters, helped
transform Fiji into a tolerant, multicultural and prosperous society. ‘Girmit Day’ is commemorated in Fiji on 14 May of each year, with mixed feelings across the nation. Here is a link where the late Prime Minister of Fiji, Ratu Mara has expressed his views on 100th Anniversary of ‘Girmit’: A cen-tenary Anthology 1879–1979 https://www.facebook.com/ search/top/?q=girmit%20 global&epa=SEARCH_ BOX. Ratu Mara further emphasises the fact that Indians helped develop to what Fiji is today. Those are his words, not mine. The descendants of ‘Girmitiyas’ are proud to have contributed extensively in gaining independence for Fiji within 91 years of their arrival of their forebearers. Not many colonised nations can claim this record. Former Indo-Fijians now living in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, America, as well as in many other parts
Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”
Jesus Wept…
Key Scriptures: When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. “Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. Jesus wept. (John 11:33-35 NLT)
Dear Reader,
Our world is troubled and traumatised by the Pandemic. We need divine help now. We need to turn to The Miracle Worker. The World is weeping. Jesus weeps with the suffering world of humanity. He can save us from this crisis. But we need to repent for our wrongs and turn to Him for life saving miracles. Jesus is gracious and compassionate and full of mercy. He alone has defeated the death and raised to life. So that to all who call on to Him will receive the miracle of transformed life now and sure promise of eternal life.
We hope this message will bring you Good News of a Great comfort in these troubled times. Our theme is simple and clear. It is to make God real and personal. And to present God as a Living and Loving Person; so you may understand His true character, nature and relate to Him personally. God is not an object or an image or an imagination of human mind. God is a living and loving person. We find this amazing revelation in the pages of Holy Bible. Keep reading His Words with an open heart and humble spirit. You will encounter His awesome forgiveness, mercy
22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
and unfailing love. So, what is a miracle? In today’s fast paced life style with high tech gadgets at our finger tips, our minds needs readjust to understand the real meaning of the miracle power. The miracle simply means supernatural power touching the natural realm that we live in. It is not just limited to the world we see and smell, the greatest miracles is the one that changes people hearts and mind. The Miracle that leads human hearts from darkness to light, from death to life and from sin to right living that
pleases God our Creator. I firmly believe in the miracle and I sincerely seek that you will understand the real power behind the miracle. The Eatons bible dictionary gives a very clear and sharp meaning; miracle is an occurrence at once above nature and above man. It shows the intervention of a power that is not limited by the laws either of matter or of mind, a power interrupting the fixed laws which govern their movements, a supernatural power. For simple example, when we lift an object or a
of the world continue to commemorate ‘Girmit Day’ to cherish the achievements of our forbearers. One of the main aim of our ‘Girmitiyas’ was to educate themselves, educate their children, and then lay a foundation to educate the future generations in Fiji. As time went by, and resources accumulated, many schools were built under banners of different faiths, such as, Arya Samaj, Sangam, Sanatan Dharam, & Islam, but all schools were open to students from all backgrounds, including that of native Fijians, as it should be. Following the 2000 military coup, hundreds of thousands of students of Indian decent were deprived of basic education, after their parents were forcibly evicted from farms they had leased from Fijian landowners. A group of ex-Fiji Indians grouped together and formed an association, the International Congress for Fiji
weight, force of gravity is overcome by a greater force of your muscles. Gravity is not absent, but it has just been overcome by greater force. Same is true in an event of a miracle, natural law has been overcome by supernatural force that is unseen or unknown. Miracles are result of grace of God who responds to human cry for help through faith and simple act of prayer. Miracles are also a mystery, because of our limited capacity to understand the unlimited love of God. We reason and think based on our education, culture and family upbringing which form our heart boundaries. I am a recipient of many miracles in my life. And I know that many of my friends and family also have encountered the supernatural favour. This is purely as the result of relationship that we have been developing through the Holy Scriptures. It has nothing to do with our great service to our job or community, it is simply knowing who we are as God’s children. Therefore the greatest miracle that happened to me was the changing of my heart and
Inc (ICFI) to ensure that these students will receive basic education in Fiji, no matter what. ICFI consummated its pledge and through extensive fundraising each year since, it has financially supported more than 16,000 high school and tertiary level students to a total amount of little over a million dollars ($1,000,000.00) over the 20 years. During these years, thousands of these students have successfully graduated and have secured reasonably good paying jobs. Many have helped their other siblings to complete their education, a strategy ICFI introduced at the beginning of this funding program and continues till today. Due to Covid-19 pandemic, need for financial assistance increased exponentially when parents lost their jobs. Schools were now requesting not only educational material but food for students who were eager to study, but just could not meet other expenses. The management board of ICFI stepped up again to help these students. Some schools needed $400.00 a week to bulk-cook lunches on-site and keep the students fed. The management board of International Congress for Fiji Inc (ICFI) wishes to thank all generous donors, and musical groups who helped with staging the annual “Girmit Night” fundraising over the past several years in Brisbane. A big thank you to all donors from ICFI’s branches in Sydney, Auckland, Vancouver, and in Wales. May the torch of education, a legacy of our ‘Girmitiyas’, keep burning in Fiji.
mind. When we learn to humble and accept the free gift of God’s love and mercy to touch your hearts, you qualify for a miracle. When you say a prayer with childlike faith and sincere heart, God send a miracle power your way. No amount of good works or million dollars can buy or create a miracle. Miracle is simply learning to know and say YES to our Creator and Lord Jesus and letting His love flood our hearts. Therefore the greatest miracle is when you know you have been forgiven and made a new creation. If you need a miracle today, why not say YES to the Miracle Maker Jesus Christ. Say this prayer with sincere hearts; “Father God, I need your help, forgive me, heal me, I believe that Jesus died for my sins and rose again to give me a life of miracles. Bless me with your unlimited grace and mercy. Thank you God in Jesus name I pray, Amen”. Friends if you said this prayer for the first time, write to us, so we can help you to grow in the life of supernatural miracles that are waiting for you. Our email is: navig8grace@gmail.com
Ravishing Fashionistas Fashion Show 2021 Upma Kite, Mrs. Universal Australia 2019 and the director of Ravishing Fashionistas, introduced the unique concept of all sizes and ages in 2019. Upma herself is a published model and knows the struggle in industry. She wanted a space for women where they can showcase their talent. Continuing the mission to embrace yourself by breaking stereotypes and advocating positive body image, RF is organizing a dynamic gathering of designers, creators and patrons of the fashion industry at our next show to be held on 03 July 2021 at Royal International Convention Centre. The team is determined to deliver an exceptional Fashion Show experience. The Fashionistas Team consists of experts from the
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fashion industry and other professional backgrounds who volunteer their time to produce the show for professional and emerging models and designers. The team has delivered two Sold Out shows in the past at Sofitel, 2019 and Stanford Plaza, 2020. With every event produced, RF pledges that a portion of funds raised will go to a charity. This year Ravishing Fashionistas Fashion Show 2021 will donate a portion of profits to the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Dignifying Women. In the world where misogyny and sexism still exists, where women are put to shame for various reasons; body types are one of the very common characteristics used to criticise a woman. “Too thin”, “too fat”, “too pale”, “too tan”, “too mature”, “too casual”, “too wrinkly” are the words
that we hear quite often. Ravishing Fashionistas Team is encouraging everyone to fight this prejudice and advocate positive body image for all women. Their message to the community is to confidently embrace their beauty and body irrespective of their age, body type, background, skin colour or culture. Every woman has a story and a unique personality. We love to challenge ourselves and aspire to deliver our guests an unforgettable experience. Local politicians, celebrities and influencers gather under one roof to witness the best of Brisbane's models, fashion designers, jewellery creatives, stylists, hair and makeup artists, photographers, social media influencers and guests. The Fashionistas Team has kicked off preparations for this year’s show by conducting a casting call held on Sunday, 14 March 2021 at Hamilton Hall. 100 professional and emerging models attended, to try their luck to be short-listed for this year’s show. The Judges Panel consisted of Upma Kite (Concept Creator & Director of Ravishing Fashionistas); Francesca Webster (Founder, Director & CEO of Brazilian Beauty and ASI Training Centre); Lizzie Wagner (Founder of Lizzie Wagner Group Executive Coach, Business Consultant, Keynote Speaker & Styling and PR professional); Thuy Nguyen (Director & CEO of Fashion360); Vera Haddock (Founder of VERAS & Social
Media Influencer) and Unga Folau-Tupou (Fashion Show Model Coordinator & Choreographer of Ravishing Fashionistas). As the day began, models from various age groups, nationalities and dress-sizes lined up for their turn to shine in front of the judges. The models were requested to walk solo and then in a group. This was an opportunity to mark their entry into the fashion industry. Each model was judged on their confidence, personality, walk and posture. Out of 100 models 30 models will move to the next stage
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of rehearsals and prepare for the major event. The selected models will be mentored by fashion industry experts, developing skills in choreography, wellbeing, communication, while being coached to collaborate in a team environment. The final event is scheduled on Saturday, 3 July 2021 at Royal International Convention Centre starting at 6pm, is expected to surprise and delight the audience with the theme of gold and glitter. So, Brisbanites and Fashionistas - follow the RF social media channels to keep
up to date as the excitement builds. Purchase your tickets early and don’t miss out to join the revolution! Follow Ravishing Fashionistas on Facebook and Instagram. Your support can change someone’s life! For Sponsorships enquiries please contact: Manish Juneja at sales@ ravishingfashionistas.com For PR related enquiries contact: Tanu Jayaswal at tanujayaswal.2020@gmail. com. For General enquiries please contact: info@ravishingfashionistas. com
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 23
Who, What, Where, When...
Wider community representation at candlelight vigil
Well-appointed placards with clear message of solidarity and standing by
From left – Satish Rajendren – BSK, Rajarajan Thennavan – Varnam Cultural, Krishnan Menon – Malyalee Community, Preethi Suraj- FICQ , Preetham Krishna – Kannada Sangha
John Prescott and Rohani Prasad with Umesh Chandra OAM
Councillor Andre Wines – Chair of Council and Mc for Citizenship ceremony, Jeannie Mok – Multicultural Centre, Pinky Singh – PWAA , Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner , Usha Chandra , John Paul Langbroek
Nicole Andronicus welcomes everyone to APC
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner officially welcomes new director General of Taipei Economic and Culture Office Mr Edward Tao 24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
Swami Atmeshananda of Vedanta Centre – with Hindu prayers
Many organisations represented by these ladies
Always a pleasure to welcome new citizens after the ceremony, congratulations
Umesh Chandra OAM – Chantex Pty with Naren Sinnathamby – Springfield City Group
Esteemed members of Lord Mayors Multicultural round table
Councillor Angela Owen mingles with the VIP guests at the welcome reception
Who, What, Where, When...
Vera Pottgr welcoming everyone at Indonesian Street Food and Fashion Festival
Senator Paul Scarr, Multicultural Minister Leanne Linnard in attendance
Retiring Member for Stretton Duncan Pegg MP receives his life membership to Labour Party badge by QLD Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at his well-attended farewell function
Tamil Association of QLD run a very successful Musical Fundraiser to raise funds for a benevolent fund to be used in crisis
Myanmar residents stage a protest in King George Square against the happenings in Myanmar
Guard of Honour at Vietnamese National Day of Mourning
Faith Leaders led by Dr Cuong Bui offer their prayers before laying wreaths in respect of the following soldiers
Savi’s double celebrations, birthday & 25th Anniversary, was celebrated at Stamford Plaza Brisbane
Fatih & Ayse Dogan hosted a Ramadan Home Iftar Dinner for members of QPS & faith community Call: (07) 3192 5188
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BCC’s Iftar Dinner hosted by Lord Mayor was held at Sunpac Sunnybank THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 25
Hanumaan Jayanthi Ram Navami at Vishnu Maya Mandir celebrations at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir
Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Celebrated Hanumaan Jayanthi on Tuesday 27/04/2021. Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated to mark the birthday of Lord Hanuman. Generally, the festival is observed either in Chaitra Month (AprilMay) generally on the day of Chaitra Purnima or in
Vaisakha Month (MayJune). Dharam Guru Acharya Pt Ram Harsh Tripathi Jee performed Hanumaan Jee Puja and Abhishek. Special Prasaad Roth was offered to Hanumaan Jee. Hanumaan Chalisa, Bhog, Arti was performed. Prasaad and Mahaprasaad was served.
NORTH MCLEAN, Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Celebrated Ram Navami for nine consecutive days. Ram Navami is a Hindu festival, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama to King Dasharatha of Ayodhya. It is celebrated on the ninth day of Chaitra month (the first month in the Hindu lunar calendar). It marks the culmination of the spring festival of Vasanta Navratri (Chaitra Navratri) which begins on Ugadi. Dharam Guru Acharya Pt Ram Harsh Tripathi Jee preached on Prabhu Shree Ram daily. Mata Ki Chowki was held where a large number of devotees came to celebrate with singing and dancing.
Hawan was also performed during the festival. On the 9th day, Ram Janam was done as per scriptures at
midday followed by evening program and celebration. It was a Grand Celebration at the temple with daily Bhajan Kirtans, Bhog, Aarti,
Prasaad and Mahaprasaad. The Celebration concluded on the 9th day with Ram Janam, Ram Jhulan, Garba, Prasaad & Mahaprasaad.
Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art apologizes & removes Ganesha Puppet after Hindu protest Museum of Contemporary
Art Australia (MCA) in Sydney, “Australia’s leading museum”, withdrew Lord Ganesha Finger Puppet from sale in its Store after Hindus protested, calling it “highly inappropriate”. MCA, in an email to Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, who spearheaded the protest, wrote: As soon as this issue was brought to the Museum’s attention, the finger puppet was removed from the store. The Museum apologises to the Hindu community. Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, thanked MCA for understanding the concerns of Hindu community, which felt that such a product was insensitive. Rajan Zed suggested that institutions like MCA should send their senior executives for training in religious and cultural sensitivity so that they had an understanding of the feelings of stakeholders and communities in all the projects they undertake. Zed had said that Lord Ganesha was highly revered in Hinduism and was meant to be worshipped in temples or home shrines and not to be manipulated by finger. Inappropriate usage of 26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
Hindu deities or concepts or symbols or icons for commercial or other agenda was not okay as it hurt the devotees. Hinduism was the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about 1.2 billion adherents and a rich philosophical thought and it should not be taken frivolously. Symbols of any faith, larger or smaller, should not be mishandled; Rajan Zed had noted. Moreover, it was saddening for the devotees to see Lord Ganesha reduced as a finger puppet under the mercy and control of the owner; while in reality the believers put the destinies of themselves in the hands of their deities; Zed had
indicated. Although MCA claims to take a leadership role in “demonstrating the social impact of contemporary art”, but it seemed that Museum executives themselves needed some urgent cultural/religious sensitivity training to substantiate this claim; Rajan Zed had pointed out. A taxpayer supported institution like MCA should not be in the business of trivializing a highly venerated deity, Zed had stated. In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as god of wisdom and remover of obstacles and is invoked before the beginning of any major undertaking. Hinduism is one of the fastest growing religions in Australia, and according to 2016 census, formed 1.9% of the country’s population numbering at 440,300. MCA, opened in 1991, receives over a million visitors annually and its collection contains over 4000 works by Australian artists. Objectionable Ganesha Finger Puppet, before its removal, was priced at $15.50 at MCA Store, which claims to be “Recognised as one of the best museum stores in the world”.
Varnam Cultural Society’s Chithirai Kalai Vizha (Multicultural Tamil and Indian New year Festival celebration)
the world, New Year is celebrated on 1st January as per the Gregorian calendar. But the New Year for the Indian community is followed through the LuniSolar and Solar calendars. Since India is a vast country with a diversity of regions and cultures, it is celebrated differently in each state. Indian New Year is celebrated as Puthandu in Tamil Nadu, Ugadi in Karnataka, Andhra and Telangana, Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Vishu in Kerala, Bihu in Assam, Baisakhi in Punjab, Pana Sankranti in Orissa and Naba Barsha in West Bengal, Nav Waras in Gujrat and Losoong in Tripura. For the past few years, Indian New Year celebrations in Queensland have become synonymous with Varnam Cultural Society. The organisation brings all these cultures together on one platform to celebrate the festivities in unison. This year too, Varnam Cultural Society organised yet another breath taking New Year celebration. This event was framed out on a much grander scale than the previous years at Springfield on 17 April 2021. The Robelle Domain Park echoed with the sounds of Indian traditional, Bollywood and international dance and music performances as the New Year festivities got underway there. Multicuisine food stalls, business stalls and promotional stalls drew a wide diversity audience. Children had a field day with fun activities like obstacle course, jumping castle. tempo tattoos and stalls selling a variety of toys. This spectacular event not only attracted local communities but also performers from far and wide. The five hours extravaganza featured south Indian classical and Bollywood dances as well as performances from far East and European countries. This highly anticipated event was graced by notable community leaders, prominent political leaders as well as the who’s who of the Indian community. Most significant among the VIPs were Senator Paul Scarr, Milton Dick MP, Federal Member for Oxley, Hon. Minister Leanne Linard MP, Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Charis Mullen MP, Member for Jordan, Assistant
Across
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Minister for Treasury, John Paul Langbroek MP, Member for Surfers Paradise, Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Hon. Shayne Neumann MP, Federal Member for Blair, Lance McCallum MP, Member for Bundamba, Cr. Nicole Jonic, Mrs. Archana Singh, Honorary Consulate of India and Umah Ranchigoda, DirectorCommercial Development, Springfield City Group in addition to several other dignitaries. The event started at 5.00 pm with devotional bhajans from Sunadham School of Music followed by a classical dance performance, Pushpanjali. Roars of drums from Lesi Digital music announced the commencement of the event ensuring people assembled and settled down to watch the gala affair. The ceremonial welcoming of the VIPs and distinguished guests was followed by lighting of the traditional “Kuthu Vilalkku” signifying the beginning of an auspicious event. The proceedings were followed by various dance and music recitals by several talented teams across Ipswich and Greater Brisbane areas. It was welcoming to see a couple of international performers presenting their cultural dance to enthral the audience. Traditional Bharatanatyam, peppy Bollywood presentations, south Indian musicals kept the audience entertained throughout the evening despite short spells of rain in between. Artistes of all ages, ranging from ages 5 to 50 showcased their talent, interest, and enthusiasm to share their culture and tradition. It was encouraging to see several members of the audience stay back and watch the performances despite the intermittent rains. Varnam Cultural Society has been organising the Indian New Year festival in Springfield since 2013, promoting harmony and multiculturalism. Every year, Varnam celebrates this festival in a big way but this year it was celebrated on a larger and grander scale, signifying a big success of the festival over the years. President of the society, Mr. Rajarajan Thennavan thanked the Queensland Government, Ipswich City Council, Sponsors,
political leaders, volunteers and all communities for their ongoing support, participation and encouragement. His speech also emphasized the importance of communal peace and harmony as well as significance of Varnam as a community group and its contribution to society. Awards were also the highlights of this grandeur event! Mr. Surendra Prasad, ChairmanAustralian of Indian Heritage War Memorial Committee was the
winner of Varnam Cultural Society’s Community Service Award for 2021. The Rising Star Award 2021 was conferred to Ms. Shreemmate Narayanan for her responsibility in organising annual tree planting throughout Ipswich City Council for the past 2 years. The Long Service Awards were presented to Mrs. Swapna Rajarajan and Ayyappan Kaaliidos for their commitment and dedication to making these annual events possible and
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successful and contributing towards staging 1000+ talents at this annual festival. Treasurer Senthil thanked one and all for making the New Year occasion and the related event a big success. He also assured that Varnam will be back with a bang next year to host “The Greater Springfield Community Festival”! The celebrations finally ended on a gala note with spectacular fireworks and an audience performance dance by several enthusiastic and energetic kids. This
extravaganza which was a result of almost 5 months of planning, co-ordinating and organising came to an end, much to the satisfaction of one and all. Varnam Cultural Society is ever ready to serve your cultural interests and multicultural talents. Please show your support in all our future endeavours and grace our scintillating events. Wishing you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2021!! Article by Rekha N Swamy.
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 27
Ramadhaan
and its final blessings BY ML. M.NAWAAZ ASHRAFI
Ramadan is a month of spiritual cleansing and purification for Muslims in which we try to increase our worship, good deeds and acts of charity. The last ten days and nights hold even more significance as Allah shows great mercy to His creation. They are a chance to benefit from the immense blessings of Ramadan and seek salvation before the month comes to an end. Seeking Laylatul Qadr Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree or Night of Power, is one of the most sacred nights in the Islamic calendar. It takes place in the last ten days of Ramadan and was the night in which the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is also believed to be the night in which Allah shows great mercy to His creation and the night in which one’s fate is decreed. Allah says in the Qur’an, “The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months,” (Qur’an, 97:3). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever prays on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and sincerity, shall have all their past sins forgiven,” (Hadith, Bukhari and Muslim). Sincerely praying for forgiveness, reciting the holy Qur’an, sending salawat (blessings upon the Prophet) and offering optional (nafl) prayers are examples of beneficial acts of worship on these nights. The exact date of Laylatul Qadr is unknown, although it is thought to occur on an odd night in the last ten days of Ramadan (e.g. the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27 or 29th night). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Seek it in the last ten days, on the odd nights,” (Hadith, Bukhari and Muslim). When Lady Aisha (may Allah be well pleased with her) asked the Prophet (peace be upon him) “O Messenger of Allah, if it is Laylatul Qadr, then what should I supplicate with?” he replied with the famous dua: “Allahumma, innaka Afuwwun Karimun, tuḥibbu al-afwa fa‘afu anna” – “O Allah, indeed You are Pardoning and Generous; You love to pardon, so pardon us.” Performing i’tikaf Many Muslims choose to spend the last ten days of Ramadan in seclusion (i’tikaf), where one solely focuses on worshipping Allah and refrains from involvement in worldly affairs. It is a time to reflect,
increase worship and to increase one’s religious knowledge, seeking closeness to Allah. The sunnah is to remain in i’tikaf for ten days but as a minimum it can be one day and one night. I’tikaf is a great opportunity to reconnect with Allah in solitude. It is also a time to implement good religious practices which can be carried on throughout the whole year. This seclusion usually takes place at the mosque but with many mosques
believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be their charity,” (Hadith, Tirmidhi). Give generously before Ramadan comes to an end and help us provide relief to those lives have been torn apart by war, famine and natural disaster. Show mercy to others so that Allah may show mercy to you.
LAILATUL QADR Islam makes certain times and places especially sacred. While a believer can certainly engage in worship such as remembering or glorifying God at any time (“standing, sitting or lying on their sides”1), some periods of time have special and unique blessings associated
closed this Ramadan amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, a secluded space within the home can be designated, free from noise and distractions if possible. Giving sadaqa during the last ten nights The last ten days of Ramadan are an opportunity to gain multiple rewards by giving sadaqa to those in need for the sake of seeking the pleasure of Allah. The rewards of giving sadaqa during Ramadan are multiplied by 70 and the reward for any righteous act during Laylatul Qadr is equivalent to having performed the same act for over 83 years! The Prophet (peace be upon him) said “Sadaqa extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire,” (Hadith, Tirmidhi). He also said that Allah offers relief on the Day of Judgement for those who give sadaqa: “The
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with them. Similarly, while the entirety of the Earth has been made a place of worship and prostration, there are some locations (such as the three Mosques) that are uniquely blessed. This creates within the psychology of the believer a yearning to seek out these unique opportunities in order to come closer to Allah. That yearning brings about several positive spiritual emotions: awe, reverence, wonder, anticipation, eagerness, excitement, hope, and longing, all of which are encompassed in the term shawq. As we live today in an era of digital distractions and materialistic heedlessness, often acts of worship are squeezed into brief moments in our daily routine, which does not furnish one with a complete transformative spiritual experience. Serious worship
requires not just taking a brief moment to pray, but allowing our prayers to define our direction in life. Thus, Islam offers opportunities for intense spiritual experiences, experiences that involve setting aside the dunya (worldly life) and its distractions. Of the greatest of such opportunities are the blessed nights of Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺsaid, “Whoever spends the nights of Ramadan in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, he will be forgiven his previous sins.” The foremost of these opportunities are the last ten nights of Ramadan. As the Prophet’s wife `A’isha narrates, “When the last ten nights began Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) kept awake at night (for prayer and devotion), wakened his family, and prepared himself to observe salah (with more vigor). It is no coincidence that i`tikaf (seclusion in the masjid) is also recommended in Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺused to practice i`tikaf for the entirety of the last ten days of Ramadan.5 By far however, there is no
day or night that has been emphasized more than the night known as laylat al-qadr (the Night of Decree). The Qur’an’s 97th chapter is dedicated entirely to this night: Indeed, We revealed [the Qur'an] during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn. (97:1-5) The companion Anas ibn Malik reported: “Ramadan approached, so the Messenger of God said: ‘This month has come to you, and in it there is a night that is better than a thousand months. Whoever is deprived of it is deprived of all goodness, and no one is deprived of its goodness except one who is truly deprived.’ The precise night on which Laylatul-Qadr occurs has not been mentioned.
Giving sadaqa during the last ten nights The last ten days of Ramadan are an opportunity to gain multiple rewards by giving sadaqa to those in need for the sake of seeking the pleasure of Allah. The rewards of giving sadaqa during Ramadan are multiplied by 70 and the reward for any righteous act during Laylatul Qadr is equivalent to having performed the same act for over 83 years! The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Search for LaylatulQadr in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan.” There is a tremendous wisdom behind not knowing exactly when it occurs, which scholars have pointed out. As Ibn Qudamah alMaqdisi (d. 620 H) writes: God has concealed this night from the ummah so that they may strive in seeking it and performing worship throughout the month in the hopes of catching it. Similarly, He concealed the hour of special acceptance on Friday so that one would increase in their supplications throughout the day, and He concealed His Greatest Name (ism ala’dham) amongst His Divine Names and His Pleasure with acts of obedience so that people would strive for them. And He concealed an individual’s lifespan and the Hour [of the Day of Judgment] so that
humanity would continuously strive in good deeds, being heedful of them. Eid-Ul-Fitr- a Unique Festival Time of Joy for Muslims Eid -ul -Fitr is a unique festival. It has no connection with any historical event nor is it related to the changes of seasons or cycles of agriculture. It is not a festival related in any way to worldly affairs. Its significance is purely spiritual. It is the day when the Muslims thank Allah for having given them the will, the strength and the endurance to observe fast and obey His commandment during the holy month of Ramadhan. This day, in Muslim world, brings rejoicing and happiness. The rejoicing is not, however, at the departure of the month of Ramadhan; it is the happiness which man feels after successfully completing an important task. So far as the passing away of the month of Ramadhan is concerned, Muslim religious leaders of the early days of Islam always felt profound sorrow when it came to an end, as they felt that they were being deprived of the spiritual blessings which were associated with the month of fasting. To show the original Islamic feeling at the end of Ramadhan, I am quoting some of the sentences from an invocation by Imam Zainul-Abedeen R.A. He says:"O Lord, Thou hast ordained Ramadhan to be one of the most chosen .. .. ; and Thou hast distinguished it from all other months, and chosen it out of all other seasons and periods; and given it preference to all the times of the year, by having sent the Qur'an and the light CONTD. ON PG 29
CONTD. FROM PG 28 of guidance in it, and by having increased the faith, and by having enjoined the observance of fast in it, and by encouraging us to stand up for prayer at night, and by placing in it the glorious 'Night of Qadr' which is better than a thousand months. "Therefore, in accordance with Thy command, we kept fast in its days, and with Thy help, we stood up for prayers in its nights; presenting ourselves, by means of its fasts and prayers, for Thy Mercy which Thou dist offer to us. "And, verily, this month of Ramadhan stayed amongst us a welcome stay; and gave us a righteous company; bestowing upon us the most excellent benefits in the universe. Now, it departs from us at the completion of its time. "Therefore, we bid it farewell as we did good-bye to one whose departure is hard upon us and makes us sad; and whose parting away makes us feel lonely." Then he turns towards the month of Ramadhan, speaking in an endearing tone:"How much did we long for thee yesterday; and how intense will be our eagerness for thee tomorrow. Peace be on thee and thy excellence of which we have been deprived, and thy blessings which will no longer be with us." These few words are the mirror which show the true Islamic feeling towards the month of Ramadhan and its blessings and spiritual benefits. Eid-ul -Fitr is related to such a month of blessings, because it is on this day that the strict restrictions of the preceding month are lifted. Unfortunately, in some places, this resumption of the normal activities is misinterpreted as a licence to indulge in activities prohibited in Islam, like gambling, etc. Fortunately, such trends are not common yet; but such people should be made to understand the significance of Eid -ul-Fitr. Religious observances of the Eid-ul-Fitr are designed to offer thanks to Allah that He helped us in accomplishing the aim of Ramadhan. Surely, it would be an affront to Allah if anybody, after thanking Him for completing that spiritual training, goes right away sinning against Him! Had such person known the meaning and purpose of Eid-ul -Fitr, he could not have indulged in such unIslamic activities. Eid-ul-Fitr can be interpreted as a threefold blessing: First it provides one more occasion for the Muslims to thank God and remember His blessings. Secondly, it affords an opportunity of spiritual stock-taking, after the month of Ramadhan. A Muslim can now ponder over the strength (or weakness) of his will power; he can see, in the mirror of Ramadhan, what were the strong (or weak) points of his character, because under the stress of Call: (07) 3192 5188
"The first thing for which people will be brought to account on the Day of Resurrection will be their salah (prayer). Our Lord, may He be glorified and exalted, will say to His angels - although He knows best - 'Look at the salah of My slave, whether it is complete or incomplete.' If it is perfect, it will be recorded as perfect, and if something is lacking, He will say, 'Look and see whether My slave did any voluntary (nafil) prayers.' If he did some voluntary prayers, [Allah] will say, Complete the obligatory actions of My slave from his voluntary actions.' Then all his actions will be dealt with in a similar manner."Narrated by Abu Dawud. fasting, the hidden qualities (or evils) of human character come to surface in such clear way which is, perhaps, not possible otherwise. Thus a man gets a chance of self-diagnosis of the traits of his character, which probably no one else may ever detect. Thirdly, it enjoins the well-to -do persons to share a portion of what they have with their poor brethren. On the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, a Muslim is obliged to give to the needy food-stuff at the rate of a prescribed weight, on behalf of himself and of every member of his family, including servants and guests who were sheltered under his roof on that night.
Eid-ul -Fitr is related to such a month of blessings, because it is on this day that the strict restrictions of the preceding month are lifted. Unfortunately, in some places, this resumption of the normal activities is misinterpreted as a licence to indulge in activities prohibited in Islam, like gambling, etc. It would certainly be pleasing to God if we did not forget these lessons after Eid-ulFitr. Incidentally, here the difference between religious and materialistic outlooks becomes sharper. Religion exhorts a man to give, by his own free will, a share of his wealth to those who are less fortunate, and to give it for obtaining the blessings of God. Materialism teaches him to snatch from others whatever they have got without any regard to the moral or ethical questions involved. Thus, the religion tries to strengthen the highest qualities of the human character; materialism strives to make him the slave of the lowest animal instincts degrading him to the level of the beasts.
On this day, special prayers are held the world over, between sunrise and noon, when the Muslims assemble, in large congregations, wearing their best dresses standing shoulder to shoulder, demonstrating for everyone the universal brotherhood which is another distinguishing feature of Islam --- the religion of God. Let us re-dedicate our life to the cause of humanity, which is the best way to demonstrate our love of God. Let us resolve that our energies, in the coming year, will be directed towards strengthening a society based on mutual respect, brotherly love, and universal understanding. Let us decide that, in the coming year, we will build a social order which would bring not only the material benefits, but also the spiritual satisfaction. And, in the end, let us pray to God in these words: "O Lord, make us clean from our errors by the close of the month of Ramadhan, and take us out of our sins when our fast comes to end. And bless us on this Eid day, the day of our festival and our break-fast; and let it be the best day, which passed over us, and forgive us our sins known and unknown."
six days after ('Eid) Al-Fitr has completed the year: (whoever does a good deed (hasanah) will have ten hasanah like it)." According to another report: "Allah has made for each hasanah ten like it, so a month is like fasting ten months, and fasting six days completes the year." [AnNisa'i and Ibn Majah. See also Sahih at-Targhib wa'tTarhib, 1/421). It was also narrated by Ibn Khuzaymah with the wording: "Fasting for the month of Ramadan brings the reward of ten like it, and fasting for six days brings the reward of two months, and that is the fasting of the whole year." The Hanbali and Shafi'i fuqaha' explained that fasting six days of Shawwal after fasting Ramadan makes it as if one has fasted for an entire year of obligatory fasts, because the multiplication of the reward applies even to nafil fasts, because each hasanah brings the reward of ten like it. Another of the important benefits of fasting six days of Shawwal is that is makes up for any shortfall in a person's obligatory Ramadan fasts, because no one is free of shortcomings or sins that have a negative effect on his fasting. On the Day of Resurrection, some of his nafil deeds will be taken to make up the shortcomings in his obligatory deeds, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "The first thing for which people will be brought
to account on the Day of Resurrection will be their salah (prayer). Our Lord, may He be glorified and exalted, will say to His angels - although He knows best - 'Look at the salah of My slave, whether it is complete or incomplete.' If it is perfect, it will be recorded as perfect, and if something is lacking,
He will say, 'Look and see whether My slave did any voluntary (nafil) prayers.' If he did some voluntary prayers, [Allah] will say, Complete the obligatory actions of My slave from his voluntary actions.' Then all his actions will be dealt with in a similar manner."Narrated by Abu Dawud.
What is the ruling on fasting six days of Shawwal? Is it wajib (obligatory)? Fasting six days of Shawwal after the obligatory fast of Ramadan is Sunnah Mustahabbah, not wajib. It is recommended for the Muslim to fast six days of Shawwal, and in this there is great virtue and an immense reward. Whoever fasts these six days will have recorded for him a reward as if he had fasted a whole year, as was reported in a sahih hadith from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Abu Ayyub (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it will be as if he fasted for a lifetime." Narrated by Muslim, Abu Dawud, At-Tirmidhi, AnNisa'i and Ibn Majah The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) explained this when he said: "Whoever fasts for www.indiantimes.com
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 29
Australian housing market surpasses $8 trillion valuation CoreLogic today announced its estimate of the total value of residential real estate in Australia has reached $8.1 trillion. The surge in value follows the recent broad-based capital gains witnessed across the country, with many markets now at their peak. CoreLogic head of research, Eliza Owen, says “The Australian dwelling market has reached fresh record highs for the past four months, but the end of April marked the first time the total value of Australian housing broke the $8 trillion dollar mark. “This puts Australian residential property at around four times the size of Australian GDP, and around $1 trillion more than
foot on the property ladder, the continued strength in the market is putting home ownership further out of reach despite record low mortgage rates. Wages growth simply isn’t keeping pace,” says Ms Owen. For more information, visit www.corelogic.com.au.
the combined value of the ASX, superannuation and commercial real estate stock combined,” says Ms Owen. CoreLogic data shows in the three months to April, national home values rose 6.8%, which is the highest quarterly dwelling growth rate since December 1988.
“This puts Australian residential property at around four times the size of Australian GDP, and around $1 trillion more than the combined value of the ASX, superannuation and commercial real estate stock combined,” says Ms Owen.
“The increase in the value of residential real estate has put Australian home owners in a strong equity position, with the RBA estimating just 1.3% of housing loans to be in a negative equity position at the start of 2021. However for many Australians looking to get a
How much of the housing market can different incomes buy?
GROWTH IN HOUSING FINANCE APPROVALS RESUMES
The March 2021 Lending
By Eliza Owen, Head of Research Australia at CoreLogic Housing affordability is becoming an increasingly pressing concern through 2021, as dwelling values continue to rise, and first home buyer activity has started to decline. Through April, national dwelling values increased 1.8%, which is six times the average monthly movement in property prices for the past decade. Adjusting the median dwelling value in Australia for this monthly uplift suggests the typical home price rose $11,240 in the space of a month. With such rapid increases, just how much of the housing market is still attainable for buyers? Unsurprisingly, high income earners have the advantage in the buyer pool, with CoreLogic data suggesting high-level income earners could afford to purchase at least 85.1% of Australian dwellings as of May 2021. This includes almost 93% of Australian unit stock, and 82% of houses. Middleincome households could attain 57.1% of residential properties, and low-income earners could pay for up to 17.6% of all Australian dwellings based on income.
To conduct this analysis, household incomes modelled by the Australian National University (ANU) Centre for Social Research and Methods were utilised. These included low (25th percentile) middle (50th percentile) and high (75th percentile) income estimates to September 2020, which amounted to weekly income estimates of $905, $1,654 and $2,760 Australia-wide. An estimate of borrowing capacity at these levels was made, based on a 30 year loan term with an interest rate of 2.44%, and repayments based on a 30% share of income. A 20% deposit was added to that borrowing capacity to determine an affordable purchase price at different income levels. These purchase prices amounted to $376,041, $685,723 and $1,144,715. From here, CoreLogic valuation estimates were used to determine what proportion of properties fell under these purchase thresholds. No fees or additional transaction costs were factored into the analysis. The table on page 2 lists the portion of properties that could be purchased at different income levels across the major capital cities. For the capital city
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data, income levels and purchasing capacities have been altered based on ANU estimates for these regions. For example, the median household income across Sydney is estimated to have purchasing capacity for 24.5% of houses, and 59.0% of units in the Greater Sydney region.
Income alone is not enough This dataset highlights pockets of strained affordability for Australian households, particularly at the lower end of the income spectrum, and across larger cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Yet through price surges in the past 12 months to April, sales volumes have risen an estimated 22.6%. The latest Survey on Housing and Income data suggests the majority of respondents own their home. Purchasing opportunities do not always dwindle when prices rise; it is just that income and savings alone is increasingly not enough to purchase property. ABS lending data suggests the largest pool of buyers in the market at the moment (at around 51.6% of secured housing finance for purchases in March), are non-first home buyer owner occupiers. In other words, much of the
buyer pool are those who are upsizing, downsizing or moving to another home. For these buyers, it is not income alone that enabled purchasing, but the sale or equity of an existing home that creates greater purchasing power. This is likely to be the case for most non-first home buyer owner occupiers, where the latest statement of monetary policy suggested around 98.7% of existing home loans were in a position of positive equity. This is one of the reasons first home buyers are far more sensitive to price changes, and the latest ABS lending data suggests financing for first home buyers has declined by 4.8% over the past two months. Another reason is that as prices increase faster than incomes, it is harder to accumulate a deposit, where our analysis assumes the buyer has a 20% deposit. The past few housing booms in Australia have also given rise to terms like ‘rent-vesting’, ‘the bank of mum and dad’ and ‘fractional investing’, which highlight alternative methods first home buyers have turned to in order to access the housing market as prices rise. Despite these alternative measures, 2021 is likely to see a decline in first home buyer numbers.
to Households and Business figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that the value of new loan commitments for housing rose again after a fall in February which came after eight consecutive months of growth, according to the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA). The ABS figures show the seasonally adjusted value of new loan commitments for owner occupier housing increased by 5.5 per cent in March and was up 55.3 per cent for the twelve months. REIA President, Adrian Kelly said the value of new loan commitments for the construction of new dwellings, however, fell for the first time since June 2020. "Despite the March fall of 14.5 per cent it remains at historically high levels at 123.6 per cent higher than twelve months ago. "Rises in new loan commitments for owner occupier housing were seen in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory with New South Wales having the largest increase of 8.2 per cent. The largest fall of 6.5 per cent was in Western Australia. “After a 20-year low, loans to investors increased for the tenth consecutive month with the value of loan
commitments for investor housing increasing by 12.7 per cent for the month and 54.3 per cent for the year on the back of improving rental market conditions. Increases were seen in all states and territories with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory. "The value of new loan commitments to investors rose across all states except the Australian Capital Territory. The value of new loan commitments to investors rose by 19.0 per cent in Queensland 13.7 per cent in Victoria and 13.0 per cent in New South Wales. "Following January's highest level since May 2009, the number of owner occupier first home buyer loan commitments fell for the second consecutive month. The March fall of 3.1 per cent is still 58.3 per cent higher than twelve months earlier. Owner occupier first home buyer loan commitments accounted for 33.7 per cent of all owner occupier commitments excluding refinancing, down from January's 36.5 per cent." "The increase in housing finance approvals should be offset by an increase in supply with anecdotal information from agents indicating an unseasonal increase in listing enquiries leading to an easing of pressure on prices," concluded Mr Kelly.
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Arvind Kejriwal Extends Lockdown In Delhi Till May 17, Metro Services Suspended New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has extended the lockdown in the city by another week, making the restrictions stricter. Even the metro services have been suspended this time. The lockdown will be on till 5 am on May 17. Mr Kejriwal said the extension is meant to ensure that the city does not let its guard down even though the Covid numbers have dropped marginally. "The positivity rate has gone down but still we can't afford leniency. We need to extend to lockdown," Mr Kejriwal said. India recorded 4,03,738
fresh Covid cases and 4,092 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the overall caseload
to 2.22 crore. This is the fifth time in a week that the country has reported over 4
lakh daily infections. The number of deaths climbed to 2,42,362 with
India recorded 4,03,738 fresh Covid cases and 4,092 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the overall caseload to 2.22 crore. This is the fifth time in a week that the country has reported over 4 lakh daily infections.
4,092 daily deaths, the data updated at 8 am showed. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 37,36,648, comprising 16.76 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 82.15 per cent. The government on Saturday said it has revised the national policy for admission of Covid patients as it told the hospitals that "no patient will be refused on any count". A coronavirus test report is no longer needed for hospitalisation. Hospitals can't also refuse patients from another city.
UK link in Khan Market oxygen Black Fungus cases rising in Gujarat, govt sets up separate wards concentrator racket; charges against Navneet Kalra police on Friday arrested Gaurav Khanna, CEO of Matrix Cellular (International) Services Limited. The 47-yearold Gaurav Khanna is a resident of Gurugram. The oxygen concentrators were imported to India under the name of Matrix Cellular company. The owner of the company, Gagan Duggal, is alleged to be partners with Navneet Kalra. While Gagan Duggal lives in London, the
Delhi
Delhi police recovered over 500 oxygen concentrators
from Duggal’s Khullar farm at Mandi village.
Muslim neighbours help perform last rites of 70-year-old Hindu man in Kashmir village
Local Muslims in a village in south Kashmir came together to help perform the last rites of a 70-year-old Hindu resident who died on Saturday. Setting an example of communal harmony and brotherhood, local Muslims in Tahab village of south Kashmir came together to help perform the last rites of their 70-year-old Hindu neighbour who died on Saturday. Chaman Lal, a resident of Tahab village in Pulwama district, was an employee of BSNL and a known figure in the village. He spent a lot of his time in the company of his Muslim friends. As only a few of his family members were around, Lal’s local friends and neighbours from the Muslim community took it upon themselves to help perform his last rites. The local Muslims organised and performed his last rites and mourned his death as one of their own. They shouldered his
Taking note of the rising number of cases of mucormycosis, a fungal infection commonly known as 'Black Fungus', the Gujarat government has ordered 5,000 Amphotericin-B injections worth Rs 3.12 crore for treating the patients. The number of mucormycosis patients in the state has now crossed the 100-mark. he government has also set up separate dedicated wards for mucormycosis cases in all civil hospitals in Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, Bhavnagar and Jamnagar districts. On Friday, India Today reported that at least eight people have lost their eyesight in Gujarat's Surat district due to mucormycosis after recovering from Covid-19. In the last fortnight, Surat has reported at least 40 cases of mucormycosis. he infection, triggered by Covid-19, is treatable but if left untreated or if the treatment is delayed, the condition can lead to the loss of vision, and in some cases increase death.
WHAT IS MUCORMYCOSIS? According to the US Centre for Diseases Control
and Prevention (CDC), mucormycosis or black fungus is a rare fungal infection. It is a serious infection caused by a group of molds or fungi called mucormycetes. These molds live throughout the environment. It most commonly affects the sinuses or the lungs after inhaling fungal spores from the air. It can also occur on the skin after a cut, burn, or other type of skin injury.
8 DEATHS REPORTED IN MAHARASHTRA In the neighbouring state of Maharashtra, at least eight Covid-19 survivors have died due to mucormycosis during treatment, news agency PTI reported quoting a senior official, adding that around 200 patients are currently being treated in the state. According to Dr Tatyarao Lahane, who
heads the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER), cases of mucormycosis are on the rise. "Eight out of 200 such patients treated so far in various parts of the state have died due to mucormycosis, also known as a black fungus. They survived Covid-19 infection but the fungal infection attacked their weak immune system which proved fatal," Dr Lahane said. Addressing a Union health ministry press briefing on Friday, Niti Aayog Member (Health) Dr VK Paul said mucormycosis is caused by a fungus named mucor, which is found on wet surfaces. He had also said when the same Covid-19 patient is put on oxygen support, which has a humidifier containing water, the chances of him or her getting the fungal infection increase.
Hospital horror: Kin sleep beside Covid-19 patients | Bhagalpur ground report coffin and arranged wood for the cremation in the village. Hundreds of Muslim villagers participated. When Lal’s sons and daughter arrived in the village from Jammu, they thanked the locals for showing so much love and care to their family. “He was one of us. We never thought of him as a pandit. We arranged everything needed for the cremation,” Muhammad
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Sultan, an elderly man, said. Another local resident stated, “He has been living here among us for many years. We have lived alongside each other and done everything together. In his final journey also we are with him.” Chaman Lal’s family is one of the few Kashmiri pandit families that did not migrate in the 1990s but opted to stay on in their native village.
Hit hard by the second wave of Covid-19, the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital in Bhagalpur is under serious strain due to a shortage of manpower and allegations of negligence. On Saturday, India Today TV visited the hospitals and found patients' kin desperately begging for admission for their family members after the hospital turned them away due to a shortage of doctors and medical staff.
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FOCUS ON FIJI None of Fiji's 37 active COVID-19 cases have severe illness
$2m paid out under COVID-19 assistance
No new cases of COVID-19 recorded today Doctor Fong says they have
no new cases of COVID-19 in Fiji to confirm today. 4This has been confirmed after another 2,206 tests. 4There are currently 37 active COVID-19 cases in the country. 4None of them have severe illness. 4Dr Fong says their contact tracers have spent the last 24 hrs working on the travel history of the 7 cases announced yesterday. 415 contacts of the nurse from the Raiwaqa Health Centre have been identified through the careFIJI app. 4Dr Fong says this is yet another reminder that the careFIJI app works. 4As a result of the contact tracing investigation for case 128, the Ministry is
asking anyone who attended the Maternal and Child Health Clinic at Raiwaqa Health Centre from April 21st to April 23rd, April 29th to April 30th and May 3rd to May 5th to remain at home and contact 158. 4Dr Fong says they know that rest of the staff at the Raiwaqa Health Centre have
tested negative so far and the nurse was wearing a mask at work but those that attended that clinic should still call 158. 4There maybe a need to cordon off certain neighbourhoods and communities as screening zones but so far their testing has not pushed any specific
areas past the risk threshold to trigger a lockdown. 4Dr Fong is disappointed that they have already seen people moving from containment zones into noncontainment zones. 4This was explicitly forbidden and they are already tracking these people as best as they can. 4It is vital that all these people self-isolate immediately - Dr Fong. 4Of the 37 COVID-19 cases in isolation facilities, 8 are border quarantine cases and 23 are locally transmitted cases. 412 patients have recovered. 46 cases of COVID-19 are still under investigation to determine the source of transmission
Kiran calls on everyone to pray and show solidarity to the many mothers who are in confinement
FRIEND Fiji assists 900 families in Lautoka this week FRIEND Fiji founder and CEO Sashi Kiran says this Mother’s Day a lot of families are anxious and she is calling on everyone to pray and show solidarity to the many mothers who are in confinement. She says there are about 320 staff at Lautoka Hospital who are mothers and there are about 50 mothers with new born babies as well. She has also highlighted that the Foundation assisted 900 families in Lautoka who have been affected by the lockdown. Kiran says they are also getting requests from the Nadi quarantine area where families have been asked to
self-quarantine and are not able to go out and get food. She says they are really worried about casual employees because they depend on week to week
wages but three weeks have now passed and they have not received their wages. Kiran says families who have had no cash for three weeks do need cash so the $90
provided by the government will be useful to pay their water and electricity bills, get medication and sanitary items. However, she says she still believes that there is an urgent need for food ration distribution in the poorest communities. The Foundation CEO says poor families are in a difficult situation because they cannot feed their families properly or provide them with medication. She says they are trying their best and are also reaching for government assistance to try and reach the poorest who have nothing to eat.
Around two million dollars has been paid out to over 21,000 families in the Lautoka and Nadi containment areas. This is under the government’s COVID-19 assistance. This comes as those in Lami, Suva, Nasinu, and Nausori can start their application from today. Minister for Economy, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum was today told that the Fijian Government has topped up 21,657 MPAiSA and MyCash accounts with the $90 cash assistance. The Acting Permanent Secretary for Economy, Shiri Gounder, says a total of 27,313 applications have been assessed so far from the Nadi Lautoka containment area since applications opened on Thursday. 5,656 applications did not qualify as they were already getting unemployment assistance already being provided by Government in
partnership with FNPF. The applications for the Nadi and Lautoka areas has now closed and the remaining applications received this afternoon will be paid out after the verification process. From 9am, those between Lami to Nausori can dial *161# to apply for the $90 assistance. Applicants will have to provide the following details. Full name of the applicant; Applicants FNPF number, if any; Applicants Tax Identification Number, if any; Home address; Number of people in the household; Confirm if any other household member has applied for this assistance. For those that prefer payments in their bank accounts, the following additional details will be required: The Account name; Bank Account number; Name of the Bank.
People who moved from containment zones into noncontainment zones today will need to self-isolate immediately
Bainimarama sends well wishes to all mothers Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says there is no better gift than to stay home and keep our mothers safe during this mother’s day. In his Mother’s Day message Bainimarama says if people are away from home they should call to wish their mum well rather than traveling in person. He says this is the single best way to show they care. The Prime Minister has also applauded the efforts of mothers who are frontline workers sacrificing their time to save Fiji from the pandemic. “There are mothers right now who are spending every minute of the weekend working as Doctors as Nurses,
Prime
Permanent Secretary for
as Healthcare staff in Lautoka Hospital, and in Health Care Centers around the country. There are mothers in quarantine, mothers being treated in isolation ward, all of them are sacrificing are
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sacrificing the comfort of family this weekend for the sake of every Fijians safety and wellbeing.” Bainimarama says appreciation is to be best shown by adhering to
measures in place to keep Fiji safe. He says by doing so, Fijians are also protecting Health Care heroes, the most vulnerable, and the country as a whole.
Health, Doctor James Fong says people who have moved from containment zones into non-containment zones today will need to self-isolate themselves immediately. He says they are tracking these people as best as they can. Fong says they had made an accommodation yesterday to allow people on Viti Levu who needed to return to their homes to enter containment areas but they have seen a dangerous abuse of this policy from this morning. The Permanent Secretary
says they have seen one life lost to this outbreak but still, some people are not taking this situation seriously enough. He has stressed that tightly-controlled movement is allowed so that Fijians can return home if, and only if, they reside in a containment area. Fong says no other reason for cross-border travel into containment areas is allowed, including for cleaning services, a request they actually received multiple times. He says he cannot believe some people have the audacity to ask the Ministry about this.
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Gurmeet Choudhary gears up to take care of the future health care system of the nation by launching The Grand Hospital Project Gurmeet Choudhary gears up to take care of the future health care system of the nation by launching The Grand Hospital Project ByBollywood Hungama News NetworkCreated: May 8, 2021 - 4:37 PM ISTUpdated: May 8, 2021 - 5:44 PM IST In the past few months, Gurmeet Choudhary has been hailed as a hero, a savior, an inspiration and many other such laurels. However, what he really is, is a human being trying to do good for all Indian citizens, in order to fight the mammoth COVID 19 second outbreak
that the country is faced with and at the same time gearing up for the future health care
system. From arranging ICU beds with Ventilators, to
getting Oxygen aid for those in critical conditions to procuring Remedesvir and saving lives, including that of a pregnant lady amongst many others, Gurmeet and his team have worked effortlessly, tirelessly and relentlessly over the last few weeks. Talking about his efforts to take care of the health care system of the nation, Gurmeet has launched the #TheGrandHospitalProject which will have primary centers and small hospitals across various districts. The state of the art hospitals
Sara Ali Khan contributes towards Sonu Sood’s charity foundation for COVID relief; Sood says “You are a hero” The country is facing a
surge in Covid-19 cases and Sara Ali Khan is one of the prominent voices that have been utilising their social media influence to source and provide Covid relief. Now, the actress has extended her support further and donated a significant amount to Sonu Sood’s charity foundation for purchasing more oxygen cylinders for those in dire need.
Thanking the Sara for her contribution, Sood took
to his social media and wrote, “Thank you so much
my dear Sara Ali Khan for your contribution to the @ soodfoundation! Extremely proud of you & keep on doing the good work. You have inspired the youth of the nation to come forward and help during these difficult times. You are a hero???? Sara has been consistently amplifying and giving a shout-out to Covid relief requirements and resources on her social media.
Shah Rukh Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali reinitiate talks for Izhaar; Shah Rukh to play a man who cycles to Norway for love Shah Rukh Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali created magic on screen almost two decades ago with Devdas. But ever since, they have never worked together in a film. But sources say they were very close to reuniting on screen on several films. SLB had offered SRK both Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat but talks fell through. In fact, there were also rumours that the director wanted to cast Salman Khan and Shah Rukh together in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam 2. That also never materialised. Then, there was the Sahir Ludhianvi biopic that SLB was producing. So
there have been a few misses for the actor-director duo. Now, we hear that Bhansali is keen on putting back one of his romantic sagas back on the floors. While the director
is busy setting up his web series Heera Mandi, starring Sonakshi Sinha, that was also in the works for years now, he has approached SRK with another version of a script he
had written titled Izhaar. A source informed Bollywood Hungama, "Izhaar was a film that Bhansali wanted to do with SRK around four years ago. It's a love story revolving around this couple - an Indian man and a Norwegian girl. It's based on the real life story of the guy who cycled all the way to Norway for love. Bhansali wanted to adapt that into a screenplay and has reworked the script again for SRK's persual. Now it needs to be seen if Shah Rukh green lights it this time around." Or will it be yet another miss for the two? Watch this space.
will be well equipped with the latest Al technology for disease detection and treatment, all under the guidance of super specialists from the main hospitals. The noble initiative takes shape with the premier hospital in Lucknow and Patna, followed by all other states as well. Speaking on this huge feat and endeavor, Gurmeet says , "The Grand Hospital project is my dream project which I have visioned and I am working towards it each day. Ever since we got hit by COVID, I realised that our health care system needs
to become stronger, so the idea is to make India ready for the future. Today COVID has hit, tomorrow there will be many more dreadful diseases which will require us to fight against them. We are starting from Lucknow and Patna as main centers of this project as they are the epicenter of the nation and they connect to all the other states. Once those are formed we will replicate the same in other states too. All the hospitals will be equipped with AI technology and will be under the guidance of specialists."
Drishyam 2 shoot to not commence till copyright case is pending, assures Panorama Studios to HC
Panorama Studios International, which had acquired the rights of the Hindi remake of the Malayalam hit film Drishyam 2 has now assured the Bombay High Court that they would not begin shooting for the film until the time the copyright suit filed against it is pending. Viacom18 Media Pvt Ltd had approached the HC seeking a restraining order on Panorama Studios International from producing any sequel to the movie in Hindi language. In its legal suit, Viacom alleged infringement of their copyright and sought recognition and adjudication of copyright and other rights in the production of the sequel in the Drishyam franchise which includes a film on continuation from the previous story. In its order, the HC said, "The statement is that the defendants (Panorama) will not themselves or through any other person with whom
they may have a contract or arrangement, begin shooting of the film in question i.e. a sequel to the film Drishyam". The HC also noted that if the production house undertakes any preproduction work such as developing the script, screenplays or dialogue, then it will be at their own risk and that they will not be entitled to claim any equities on that basis in the future. The 2015 film Drishyam which was a remake of the Malayalam film of the same title released in 2013 was a massive hit. The film starred Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and Shriya Saran. The Malayalam language sequel of the film was released in February this year and was a huge hit. Viacom, in its suit, said it had executed a Remake Rights Agreement with Wide Angle Creations and Raj Kumar Theatres Pvt Ltd by which it had copyright to produce new films by adapting the movie Drishyam.
Shabana Azmi on staying safe & sane during Covid mighty Shabana Azmi shot an entire web series for Steven Spielberg in Budapest and a feature film for Shekhar Kapoor in London during the Covid crisis. But now all shooting has come to a grinding halt. The formidable actress is now at her farmhouse on the outskirts of Mumbai
The
with her husband and some close members of her family. Her farmhouse is named Sukoon. Bu there is no sukoon (peace) in her mind right now. “Every day we are losing a relative or a friend. Jadu (husband Javed Akhtar) lost two cousins on the same day. Before
38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
we can mourn the passing of one loved one, another one goes. I’m numbed with grief and disbelief.” Shabana is in quarantine with family. “At Sukoon we step out only into the garden. Otherwise we are completely indoors. The family is here with us, and that’s most comforting
at a time like this. We do not leave the house. Grocery is brought to the house. We have created our own bubble over here in Sukoon, a lesson I learnt from my shootings abroad after the pandemic broke out.” I ask her about the work she is known to with the
needy. “I am monitoring the work at Mijwan (her ancestral home town in Uttar Pradesh) for Covid relief, including providing oxygen concentrators on a daily basis. But these are not things one should be talking about. Right now it’s time for action, not selfcongratulation.”
Night Train to Varanasi By Sean Doyle, Bad Apple Press, $32.99
By Rama Gaind
One of the best ways to learn by experience — in this case an adventurous vacation by train in India — is the trip undertaken by Australian travel writer Sean Doyle, and his daughter, Anna. Their sojourn was in prepandemic times “recent yet poignantly distant”. The paternal bond is significant as he takes a journey through “India with my daughter” in Night Train to Varanasi. It leaves an indelible mark. Blending knowledge, humour and a parent’s disquiet, this is a wonderfully subtle pivot of a father–daughter relationship set against
the backdrop of one of the world’s most intense cultural experiences. It’s a persuasive and perceptive read, a memorable pilgrimage, of sorts. Doyle has loved India for decades, so when his first-born, Anna, finished high school, they set off on a two-month trip. She wanted an adventure; he wanted a holiday. The narrative is profoundly touching; in the way Doyle affectionately discloses his most private feelings related to his daughter, standing on the brink, tentatively, on a path between guarding her and letting her go. Anna says her experiences "made me strong". The author deals with the parenting of adult children and the uplifting disorder of India. In the midst of struggle and suffering, the place that meant the most to Sean in all the world was India: its spirituality, its intensity, its unequalled ancientness and its extraordinary aliveness. “Connection … that sweet sense of
belonging, of wholeness that comes from within and without: it means everything. It’s the essence of my love for India.” Many of Sean’s observations strike a chord like waiting for the Metro in Connaught Place, New Delhi, and describing it as “an intimate experience”. Other annotations deliver clear images of what it’s like getting stuck in a monumental traffic jam on Netaji Subhash Marg or seeing some of the numerous places of interest including the Red Fort, Chandini Chowk, Mathura, Bharatpur, Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur and Hardwar. This is a travelogue, a history lesson and an educational insight — all rolled into one. Above all, Sean makes a profound statement: “… I feel Indian …” Then he declares: “Sometimes the reality of India is much better than the concept”. Varanasi, or Benaras as it was once called (also known as Kashi, the City of Life), is one of the oldest living cities in the world. In
the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh dating to the 11th century B.C., it’s regarded as the spiritual capital of India.
It was English author Mark Twain, enthralled by the legend and sanctity of Benaras, who wrote: “Benaras is older
than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together”.
SALMAN KHAN GROOVES TO THE FIRST SONG SEETI MAAR FROM RADHE Your Most Wanted Bhai Is Back!
Ever since the trailer of
Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai released, we’ve been waiting for Seeti Maar. The first song release, Seeti Maar launched on Monday and has already won hearts. Superstar Salman Khan is joined by Bollywood’s Bae Disha Patani in this much talked about dance number. The song features Salman and Disha doing a high-tempo choreography and is filled with Salman’s catchy hook-steps that have us wanting to get on our feet! After their amazing performance in Slow Motion, Seeti Maar starring Salman Khan and Disha Patani is Call: (07) 3192 5188
on its way to becoming the biggest chartbuster of the year. Seeti Maar has been penned by Shabbir Ahmed and the vocals are by Kamal Khan and Lulia Vantur. The song is the Hindi remake of Telegu song of the same name starring Allu Arjun. Packed with Shaikh Jani Basha also known as Jani Master’s choreography and Prabhudeva’s direction, the song is causing a stir among Bhai fans who’ve waited all year for this Eid Release! A wide theatrical release on 13th May 2021, targeting 40 countries is being planned across all international
territories including Middle East, North America, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore,Europe. It will also be the first Bollywood film to release theatrically in UK since the lockdown. Alongside Salman Khan, Radhe also stars Disha Patani, Randeep Hooda and Jackie Shroff in pivotal roles. The movie is presented by Salman Khan films in association with ZEE Studios, produced by Salman Khan, Sohail Khan and Reel Life Production Pvt. Limited. The movie will release in over 40 countries, theatrically on May 13, 2021 on the occasion of Eid. www.indiantimes.com
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 39
How much does it cost for ongoing management of chronic hepatitis B in Australia? Many people who have chronic hepatitis B (infected for longer than 6 months) in Australia were born overseas. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to serious consequences such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Thus, it is vital for people living with chronic hepatitis B to be monitored and managed to reduce the risks of developing liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Ongoing management of chronic hepatitis B includes regular check-ups to monitor liver and general health, and if the virus is causing any issues for the person. Also, to identify if treatment is needed. Regular check-ups are required for all people with chronic hepatitis B, whether on treatment or not.
The regular checkups include: • at least 6 or 12 monthly blood tests to check for liver function etc. More often for people on treatment. • at least 6 monthly
ultrasounds and blood tests for a person who: - Is an Asian born male over 40 years of age - Is an Asian born female over 50 years of age - Is an African born person over 20 years of age - Is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person over 50 years of age - Has a family history of liver cancer (any age) - Has been diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver (any age). Ultrasounds can help to identify liver cancer. • A 12 monthly blood test to check the amount of hepatitis B virus circulating in the blood (called a DNA or viral load test). More often for people on treatment. Every 1-3 years a Fibroscan test to identify liver damage (fibrosis and cirrhosis). It is an ultrasound like test and can be provided free of charge by our program at ECCQ. Costs for people with a Medicare Card • Blood tests and
ultrasounds can generally be bulk billed • Some tests are not rebatable under Medicare, therefore, a person should check with their doctor to make sure they do not have any unexpected expenses. • Fibroscan tests are free through our program at ECCQ. Costs for people without a Medicare Card • Need to pay for blood tests and ultrasounds. • If the person has Travel/ Health Insurance, they should discuss with their provider what is covered and how to claim. • Fibroscan tests are free through our program at ECCQ. Travel/health insurance is not required. • Things to know if you do not have a Medicare Card: - Blood tests can vary in the cost depending on the pathology service used. Some may cap fees from between $220 and $800. - Ultrasounds can also vary in cost depending on
the radiology service used. Costs can vary from $170 up to nearly $400. - Before having any tests, the person should first discuss their circumstances with their doctor. - Always ask before the tests how much they will cost. The service must provide a quote for the costs to be expected. - A person can ‘shop around’ for the most costeffective services – the referral or test can be performed at any provider regardless of the Company name on the form. - It is best to have all tests performed before returning to the doctor to help reduce potential costs of additional consultations (unless specifically asked by the doctor). - To reduce the potential need of repeated tests and therefore increased costs it is best to see the same doctor for all care. Treatment for chronic hepatitis B
• Not everyone with chronic hepatitis B needs treatment. The decision to start treatment depends on the results from the checkup results. Your doctor will let you know when you need treatment. • Most people who have started treatment need it for life. • People with a Medicare Card can access government subsidised medication. • People without a Medicare Card may be able to access cheaper medication online. • All people who need treatment will require a doctor’s prescription. In
addition to specialists, some trained GPs and nurse practitioners can also prescribe hepatitis B medication. a list of prescribers can be found here: https://ashm.org.au/ PrescriberListing/ For more information go to ECCQ Webpage: www. eccq.com/bbv Email: health@eccq. com.au If you live in Cairns, you can also contact: Rhondda Lewis: Viral Hepatitis Health Practitio ner Phone: 07-4226 4761 email: Rhondda. Lewis@health.qld.gov.au
Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)
Tips for long lasting makeup Nimisha Modi
Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013 girls! Today I thought it would be super fun to share Formal or Semi- Formal long lasting makeup tips.
Hey
Take Time to Prime: The key to long-lasting foundation and color is the most commonly skipped step: primer. Seriously—the stuff works. All you need is a peasize dot of a lightweight, oil-free formula; apply it to moisturized skin before your concealer and foundation. We like Color Correcting Primers (they have three oil-free formulas for different skin types). Be Dense: Blemishes and blotchy skin don't vanish in the hot weather, but the wrong concealer definitely can. What you want is a densely pigmented (but not liquidy) cream formula. Circle Block. Use your ring finger to dab the concealer on dark circles; apply to red spots with a small brush, and then pat with your finger to blend the cover-up into the skin. Switch to Silicone: Wear a full face of foundation and you're asking for trouble. Still, we get it—sometimes you want the coverage. The solution is a lightweight
silicone-based formula. The silicone acts as a film between your skin and the humidity, preventing foundation from seeping into your pores or dribbling down your chin.
Dabbed over your face, they soak up excess oil without messing up your makeup. Keep handy Oil Absorbing Sheets.
Lighten Up: Think of foundation this way: The less you put on, the less there is to slide off. A dampened makeup sponge is the ideal tool for applying it so that it goes on light and sheer. Put a few drops on a damp foam-latex sponge, and swipe it from the middle of your face outward in short strokes. Give it a minute or so to set before you apply other makeup. Choose Creamy Shadow: When sweat and powder mix, the result isn't pretty. Sheer cream shadows tend to cake less in hot weather (plus, they glisten in the sun). Crème Eye Colour contains silicone that locks the color in place, and Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/ Liners stand the test of time without smudging. Look to Liquid: Liquid liner may take patience and practice, but once on, a good formula won't budge or smudge in the heat. Sweat proof your Lashes: Waterproof mascara is a no-brainer in the summer. It can withstand
40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
the office, the gym, the pool, and the bar without smudging. But some can fade to gray in a few hours. A-Lash Waterproof and Inimitable Waterproof Mascara. Flush with Greatness: As with powder shadow, powder blush and perspiration don't mix. Instead, rub a bright pink or coral cream or gel blush on the apples of your cheeks, and blend. Tint your Lips: Lip gloss just looks right come summer: it’s fun. It's easy… But it can also get runny and sticky in the sun. A tinted lip balm with a high wax content won't turn to mush in your bag or on your mouth.
Tinted Moisturizer: The summer heat really dries out your skin, and heavy foundations can dry your skin as well, so what better than a tinted moisturizer! It keeps your skin soft and moisturized and adds a bit of color to even out your skin tone without all of that heavy foundation clogging up your pores. It's light and perfect for summer! (Quick tip - Don't have tinted moisturizer -or- don't want to spend the extra money to buy one? You don't have to! Instead, take some of your daily facial moisturizer and pour a little bit [enough to cover your face and neck] onto the back of your hand or a paper plate. Now, mix 1-2 little blobs of your foundation into the
moisturizer, and ta-da! Instant tinted moisturizer! [You can add more or less foundation depending on how much coverage you want] Stop Shine: To reduce shine and set your makeup, take a large fluffy brush and dust a translucent loose powder across your T-zone. Because it's colourless, there's less of a chance it will cause problems in the heat, but use a light hand to be sure. Blot It Out: Instead of repowdering throughout the day—extra layers can cause cakey product build-up in warm weather—keep plasticky oil-blotting sheets at your desk and in your purse.
Water + Sleep: I'm sure you've heard this a million times, but that’s because it is so true. Drinking lots of water [shoot for 8 glasses a day] and getting at least 8 hours of sleep every day is a must for a healthy, pretty you. Keeping up with these two things cover all of the bases - your skin will be smoother, look healthier, and be less prone to breakouts, your hair will be healthier and have more life to it, your eyes will be brighter and more awake, you'll be in a better mood which means you'll be smiling more...the benefits are endless! SPF 15 Or Higher Even if it's cloudy outside or you're not out in the sun all the time, you really want to make sure that your makeup, lip balm, and moisturizer all have SPF 15 or higher because the sun can still damage your skin [even with cloud cover]. Less Is More - Seriously, it's true. A glowing, natural look never goes out of style and beauty in everyone. So here you go, enjoy rest of the month. See you next time. Nimisha from Hetvi Hair & Beauty (Mobile: 0412350113)
The National Disability Insurance Scheme
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) gives a peace of mind to people with disabilities across Australia. If you or someone you know aged between 7 and 65 years are living with a physical, intellectual, cognitive, neurological, visual, hearing or psychosocial impairments - then there is help available at no cost to you which is funded by NDIS. We can work with you and your GP to assist you obtain funding for your support through NDIS. If you already have an NDIS funded plan, we can help: • to coordinate your NDIS supports and implement your NDIS plan • connect you with appropriate support workers, Physiotherapist etc... • explore housing options for you • assist you with social wellbeing • meet your daily living needs • Provide therapy supports such as counselling Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Services (CALDS) is an approved and licensed NDIS service organisation. We offer free consultations to anyone who may need assistance to navigate the NDIS system. For further information, please contact: Kiran: 0452224119 Mohini: 0405408669
Doctors urge Australia to do more for India
AMA Queensland has welcomed the Australian Government’s initial commitment of medical equipment and supplies to help India, as it faces an unimaginable COVID crisis. AMA Queensland President Professor Chris Perry said the devastating loss of life and shocking number of new infections in India demanded a large and long-term response. “Our worst nightmare is unfolding in India, where the health system is being overwhelmed,” Professor Perry said. “Indian-trained doctors make a tremendous contribution to the health
sector in Australia and we know thousands of our Indian colleagues are desperately worried about the safety of their families, friends and colleagues. “The Australian Government’s decision to send ventilators, face masks, goggles, shields and gowns is a sensible start but this crisis is staggering and demands an ongoing commitment. “Australia has been relatively fortunate and we must not turn away from friends in need.” Former AMA Queensland President Dr Dilip Dhupelia urged Australian officials to work with Indian authorities
to target the greatest shortages. “Ambulances, medical oxygen, intensive care unit beds and lifesaving medicines are all in short supply,” Dr Dhupelia said. “India’s COVID testing capacity is also swamped.” Professor Perry acknowledged the Federal Government’s difficult decision to pause direct flights from India to Australia at least until 15 May. “The sooner we can safely bring home Australians, the better,” he said. “We encourage the Australian government to find a quarantine solution that will allow more people to come home when flights resume.”
Aap Ki Sehat
(Your Health) April Episode
Dr Dilip Dhupelia In this segment we had the pleasure
of talking and listening to Dr Dilip Dhupelia is a well-known and experienced General Practitioner Fellow of RACGP, Associate Fellow of Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA), Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and the immediate past president of AMA Queensland. Dr Dhupelia was interviewed by Dr Cyril Fernandez’s secretary General of IMAQ Brisbane, Dr Cyril Fernandez tirelessly puts together Call: (07) 3192 5188
the monthly shows, this segment is quite informative and insightful as Dr Dhupelia, with his vast experience in the industry this is a segment that is a must watch. Aap Ki Sehat is a monthly program of IMAQ which goes on Facebook live and Youtube channel of Australian Indian Radio on the first Saturday of every month and on Australian Indian Radio on the first Sunday of every Month, Past episodes can be viewed on either Facebook or youtube channel of Australian Indian Radio. www.indiantimes.com
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 41
MAY-2021
Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )
Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )
Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )
Have a prior plan for the monetary costs in the course of this month. Relationships will provide you with a risk to rejuvenate your presence in the course of this phase. On the professional front, you could possibly get a few remedies from workload and stress. Small birthday party with your own circle of relatives will provide you with happiness and company for your own circle of relatives too. All married couples may get a chance to enhance their relationship and make it more potent with the aid of spending the best time together. Singles may get appropriate marriage proposals from close ones and their own circle of relatives. This month is beneficial to set up an assembly with your own circle of relatives along with your love associate so that you can work on finalizing your wedding date. You ought to plan your costs for this month as stars are predicting that you'll need to spend on travelling, shopping, and additionally on vehicles. There are possibilities of an increment however financial savings will now no longer be there as consistent with your expectations. This month will provide you with a few remedies from the workload and you'll make monetary profits out of your job. There is the opportunity of a promotion due to your hard work, perseverance, and determination. The sensible choices associated with monetary matters are going to help you to make appropriate profits. In general, your fitness could be average this month. But susceptible immunity is going to present you with some surprising fitness challenges. Fever and cold can create health issues. Hence, try to keep away from cold drinks and be regular with a wholesome diet plan to be healthy and fit.
All in all, this month, you'll have to be compelled to work patiently and calmly when taking any major decisions. There are challenges which might be overcome by you with correct ways and means. This month, you'll have to be forced to take care in terms of your relationships. Be humble in your speech and try to have a more polite and peaceful conversation. The singles might get a relationship proposal however they must hold back before accepting any such propositions. Those of you who are stuck in legal issues associated with your relationship and other disputes might not get the expected results. The prospects in savings and finances are going to be average. You'll even incur monetary losses in your business as well, hence, don’t move with a brand new business proposal straightaway. Also, you'll face disagreements together with your business partner. There are often unforeseen disputes in your close corporation which might increase your stress, therefore, avoid taking any major step herein. Those of you anticipating the results of an interview can get the expected outcome. You'll get chosen in an interview that you had been wanting to crack recently and you'll also be recognized for your skills. The guidance of your father or boss goes to assist you in your career. This month goes to provide you a mixed lead in terms of health and well-being. So, attempt to maintain a balance between your health and private life. Moreover, you'll strive for a brand new fitness regime which might offer you physiological condition and powerful immunity as well.
You may get pulled in to an individual whom you meet unexpectedly, which will make you somewhat anxious. Attempt to discover the subtleties of that individual before getting focused on any relations, otherwise, all that will get into disorder. You will be considering what turned out badly and where. All your compatibility will be lost. You should sit down, unwind, and give an idea to all the episodes that prompted it and you will understand that it isn't excessively terrible. Your characteristics, which made others ridicule you, will cause you a few points of interest. You may turn into a focal figure in certain gatherings or public social affairs. You may comprehend your work even more. However, you will discuss your well being - in numerous ways- and turn out to be unquestionably more composed in your working or health approaches. You may get some cash treasure troves too. Your abundant energy is quite capable. There will be episodes where your caring nature will seem great as those near you will have a sense of safety, security and feeling better. You will feel cheerful and content that you have been of help to other people. Both at the working environment and home, your inventive nature will assist you with keeping up the beat and carry greater pleasure to your life. Keep it up because dreariness in life will be a relic of past times, overlooked and covered! Your considerations and inspirations lie in the region of progress and closeness.
Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )
Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )
Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )
Your inborn intelligence is probably going to give you an edge and you may take significant choices which may assist you with figuring out issues which have been forthcoming for quite a while. Your submitted approach will be valued and you'll be very much positioned in your profession. You would perform numerous great deeds during this month. Your professional way will probably be on a smooth sail. It could be the greatest month to look for arrangements and to battle chances with the best of your capacities. Your eager and lively methodology may assist you with walking forward in spite of some solid obstruction. You will get great chances to upgrade your monetary development as well. As the month starts, you may feel that you are advancing gradually yet good force may be giving you some phenomenal open doors for development and monetary benefits. The transiting Jupiter and Venus may help your motivation this month. Nonetheless, Saturn would request severe order. You may have an uplifting standpoint and might be loaded up with numerous thoughts which may get some fresh moments in your love life. Hopefulness is your quality and you will accept difficulty. Subsequently, in spite of certain disturbances, your own life may stay agreeable this month. You are probably going to seek after advanced education yet with certain difficulties. There might be hindrances and achievement may come your path simply subsequent to confronting some hardened difficulties. Be that as it may, a divine nature appears to help and secure you during troublesome occasions. You should watch your dietary patterns this month. Your thoughtless methodology or inconsistency may cause some medical problems.
The development of Saturn and Jupiter this month may acquire some significant transformation. Toward the start of this current month, things look set to be somewhat testing. As the month advances, the planetary impacts will attempt to keep you invigorated and prepared for the fight to come. In any case, don't advocate for yourself forcefully, during this stage. You ought to reconsider and rethink your choices taken before and search out important upgrades in your working techniques. From mid of this current month, things will fire up. The effect of Venus proposes that you may wish to overhaul your way of life as there might be some acceptable monetary profits. It tends to be a similarly decent stage to put away cash for an extensive stretch. As the month advances, the planetary impacts will assist you with beating money related limitations, by encouraging financial increases. Planetary situations toward the start of this current month present a blushing picture for your love life. You will feel new and invigorated on getting due help from your relatives and friends as well as family. Crucial issues identified with the family and homegrown issues may come to front and may figure everything out easily. There might be some break or disturbances around the center of this current month, yet things will begin improving soon. Some frivolous issues may out of nowhere may transform into issues of prestige and ego. This sort of demeanor may cause issues during the completion part of this current month. You are probably going to learn things sufficiently and furthermore resolve some forthcoming issues effectively. It will empower you to gain ground in your studies. Notwithstanding some minor medical problems, for example, cerebral pain, you may for the most part stay solid and productive during the month.
The effect of the planets will make you fortunate in issues identified with your profession. The transiting Mercury will uphold you, empowering you with alternatives to make money related additions. The effect of Saturn and Jupiter may acquire some observable changes in your vocation. Conditions may stay positive for business people to grow their business. There might be some acceptable open doors for monetary profits too. In any case, you have to save enough for sudden costs. Toward the start of this current month, closeness in your relationship might be deficient. Venus may bring continuous improvement however bustling days may not permit you to make the most out of your life. The transiting Mars may cause a few disarrays around the center of this current month. Thus, don't make any impulsive money related decisions. Likewise, there might be a few interruptions at your work environment around this period of the month. Unjustifiable impedance from your loved ones may, on some occasion, irritate you this time around. You have to stay adaptable in your methodology towards your associates and seniors to dodge pointless debates. There will be scarcely any obstructions in your manner thus you may need to work more earnestly in your studies this month. In this period, you are probably going to encounter numerous chances for progress and you will get an opportunity to learn and develop. There might be auspicious planetary combinations during the end part of this month and some exciting sentimental moments with your beloved around the monthend. You are additionally liable to locate some great gaining openings during the latter half of this current month. Yet, some old money related issues may rise to the top and consequently you may require sound planning to manage such issues. This month may remain optimistic for your health and wellness. You are probably going to enroll in significant improvement in your quality and endurance. If you have any medical problems, this month will assist you with recuperating quickly and bring back routineness to your wellbeing.
Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )
Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )
Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )
If you feel that you are hesitant in utilizing your analyzing force all the more adequately, you will fall into a condition of a trench, leaving you with incomplete tasks. Discover a few different ways to speak with others all the more sensibly and justifiably. You will experience some energizing moments this month. All the exciting encounters that you haven't encountered for so long, will return to you making you more fiery and cheerful. Occupied timetables will constrain you to delay a trip you were tensely hanging tight for. Try not to get discouraged for this will never be the last possibility. It will be really good if you give an idea before getting focused on another relationship. As your time is presently good, you will get appropriate direction to pick the best. The individuals who are involved in family business may see the month turning more progressive. All the disputes or contrasts will at last reach a conclusion. Which implies, outside court settlement will at last reach a conclusion as well. The month will be useful for those into the trading industry. Particularly those associated with managing foreign customers and export business. This month will make you benefit much through your contacts and influences. Just ensure that you don’t indulge in any shady deals with anybody. Also, do not entertain anyone in a higher position. Voyaging will be useful for the individuals who have a plan to execute.
This will be a genuinely helpful month for your personal as well as professional life where you will discover significant serenity and fulfillment. All the endeavors that you have been placing in from the earliest starting point of the year will begin giving profits during this month. The situation of planets is very well accommodating and will give you the muchneeded help. A short excursion is on the cards in your profession. You will be approached to attempt some significant task too at your working environment which will suit your capacity. Simply ensure that you don't trust anyone easily. This can place you in some genuine difficulty. Some of you will likewise be intrigued to be involved in part time jobs this month. Ensure this doesn't influence your time with the executives to stay erring on the side of caution. There are a significant number of you who you would be searching for a tranquil homegrown life. This is probably going to come your way as your family back home will be strong. On the off chance that solitary and searching for somebody exceptional, the second 50% of the month is more steady. Once more, those couples who are searching for imagining a kid can locate an ideal time after the twentieth of the month. In this manner it would be a decent month for the greater part of you. Towards the last 50% of the month, some of you will experience the ill effects of minor wellbeing sicknesses. This will require care and consideration. The vast majority of the issues can be identified with your eating routine. Thus, ensure you are wary around this time.
This will be a genuinely helpful month for your own and expert life where you will discover significant serenity and fulfillment. All the endeavors that you have been placing in from the earliest starting point of the year will begin giving profits during this month. The situation of planets is very well accommodating and will give you the much-needed help. A short excursion is on the cards at the expert level. You will be approached to attempt some significant task too at your working environment which will suit your capacity. Simply ensure you don't trust in others, without any problem. This can place you in genuine difficulty. Some of you will likewise be intrigued to accomplish low maintenance work this month. Ensure this doesn't influence your time with the executives to stay erring on the side of caution. There are a significant number of you who you would be searching for a tranquil homegrown life. This is probably going to come your way as your family back home will be strong. On the off chance that solitary and searching for somebody exceptional, the second 50% of the month is more steady. Once more, those couples who are searching for imagining a kid can locate an ideal time after the twentieth of the month. In this manner it would be a decent month for the greater part of you. Towards the last 50% of the month, some of you will experience the ill effects of minor wellbeing sicknesses. This will require care and consideration. The vast majority of the issues can be identified with your eating routine. Thus, ensure you are wary around this time.
Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )
Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )
Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )
The month will assist you with discovering achievement in your expert life. You will have the option to satisfy your wants now and get positive outcomes, which would consequently upgrade your expert and money related status. These conditions will urge you to purchase things that you have been intending to purchase for a significant stretch. Nonetheless, loads of endeavors will be needed to taste achievement and headway. The planetary positions are very acceptable during this month and this will build your honor and authority among your companions and family members. In any case, for that, you should build up command over your outlook and get yourself far from the pessimistic contemplations and characters. This will be a significant time of your life as it will assist you with centering and accomplish the things you have been buckling down on. You may need persistence which may mess up your life. You should control your discourse and conduct. Attempt to keep up agreeable relations with associates and seniors. Thus, you'll have the option to keep up a quiet climate at the work-front. Monetarily as well, this month has numerous great chances to bring to the table to you. Which implies you should improve your profit and speculations. Those searching for scholastic greatness will do well in the last aspect of the month. Proceed with your endeavors in every single imaginable course.
There is the chance of an adjustment in your calling this month. You may get chosen in a meeting and there will be acknowledgment of your endeavors. Imaginative work can give you achievement in your vocation. You should appropriately introduce your thoughts or, in all likelihood there will be conflict with senior specialists which can cause you stress. Persistence and difficult work will be required as there is a solid impact of the Saturn. The transit of Jupiter will favor you with great monetary status during this month. Quality time spent with your loved ones will give you sweet recollections. The ideal comes about because voyaging will accompany some postponement. Try not to botch the opportunity to have correspondence with your senior. The travel of Venus will give an essential occasion in affection and sentiment yet you should attempt to be rational. This will upgrade your conjugal and sentimental life. You may get the opportunity to invest quality energy with your kids and family. You may get endowments and wishes from your loved ones this month. You may compose a gathering in May with the travel of Jupiter. It's anything but a positive chance to put resources into land and property. Sun travel may cause aggravations in your homegrown life. Absence of comprehension and worry among your relatives may likewise influence the monetary misfortune or impromptu costs. Stars are anticipating that you ought not do over-thinking as it would prompt pressure.
You should avoid the superfluous conversations as it can prompt contentions and cause you stress. Attempt to be in a tranquil climate. The travels of planets foresee that you may get an unfamiliar association. Moreover, you may find support from an unfamiliar customer in your undertaking. Short separation making a trip identified with your activity can be there this month. You can get support from your seniors at your work environment. There can be some trying circumstances in the working environment on account of a female partner. You should actualize an innovative thought in your business venture that may assist you with achieving the ideal monetary profit. Understudies of designing can get great assistance from their tutor and seniors. You will learn new subjects or get accomplishment in assessments on the off chance that you accomplish difficult work. You need not be enthusiastic while noting a meeting. Moreover, there can be issues in your conjugal relationship. Your forceful conduct can cause difficulties in the relationship. The soundness of your mate may likewise influence you. The budgetary choice identified with selling and purchasing another house can cause you a money related crunch. You may remodel your home's inside which can cause budgetary use. The outstanding task at hand at the work environment may likewise cause pressure. You have to keep up a hole between your own and expert life. This can give you some alleviation from the outstanding task at hand. You will likewise be glad to find support from your kin. You may go on a little outing to your country or sort out little parties with your relatives. You can get a profound tendency and discover important data identified with sacred writings this month.
42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
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Ireland calls off Fiji rugby tour due to COVID-19 outbreak in Pacific island The Irish Rugby Football
Union (IRFU) has called off its men’s national team’s tour to Fiji due to the coronavirus pandemic. The tour was scheduled to be held in July, but the IRFU claimed it was "no longer viable" following concerns over a rise in COVID-19 cases in Fiji. A recent outbreak of COVID-19 has led the Fijian Government to put most of the Pacific island into lockdown. Fiji - which has a population of 930,000 has recorded just over 100 cases and two deaths since the start of the pandemic. But there are reportedly
50 active cases, resulting in tighter restrictions being put in place. The IRFU said it would now speak to other unions in a bid to arrange an alternative test match in July. "A great deal of effort has gone into the planning of the tour, which was predicated on a safety first approach," said IRFU performance director David Nucifora. "Fiji up until this point had been relatively untouched by the pandemic but that picture has quickly changed and unfortunately it is no longer viable to proceed with the tour."
Star dumped at half time as Dogs sink to new depths; Dragon stakes Origin claim: 3 Big Hits
Canterbury sunk to new depths and narrowly avoided a seven-year low as St George Illawarra scored a much needed and morale-boosting 32-12 Round 9 win on Sunday. The Bulldogs scored two late tries against the run of play to avoid being the first team since Cronulla in 2014 to go scoreless in four games in a season. They have failed to score a point three times already this year. The Dragons were impressive and a recruit pushed his claims for a State of Origin jumper, while some debutants enjoyed maiden NRL tries. Here are our 3 Big Hits. Canterbury let Kieran Foran walk out the door and the club hasn’t replaced him with an experienced playmaker in the spine. Jake Averillo and Kyle Flanagan filled the halves on Sunday and they are both only young still, despite Flanagan playing an entire season with the Roosters last year. The Chooks let Flanagan leave and we can now understand why, with teenage superstar Sam Walker braining it in his rookie season. Flanagan, on the other hand, is struggling to improve much at Belmore where he’s the senior playmaker in one of the competition’s worst teams.
The problem is there’s no one more experienced than him at the club to show him the way. Lachlan Lewis and Brandon Wakeham are the other halves at the Bulldogs but neither of them have done enough to deserve a permanent spot in the side, let alone be tasked with putting the team on their shoulders. Their attack has been miserable for three or four years now and it’s not improving quickly under coach Trent Barrett, who was Penrith’s attack guru last year. At one point during the first half against the Dragons, Flanagan chose to kick to his winger early in the set. The ball sailed into touch on the full. “He would have just fallen off his chair, Trent Barrett,” exclaimed league legend Steve Roach on Fox League. Flanagan was then benched at half time and replaced by Lewis. Coach Barrett later confirmed Flanagan was hooked due to his poor first half. “Our execution was poor. Our performance was poor,” Barrett said. Fox’s sideline reported Matt Russell labelled the Bulldogs attack “stunted”… and that was being kind. They didn’t score a point in the first half, despite being
44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell said he was
"incredibly disappointed" by the cancellation of the tour.
"It would have been a tough rugby challenge
against an excellent Fijian side and a huge opportunity for us to develop as a group and build on the progress made during the past year," said Farrell. "Touring is such an invaluable experience in terms of what we learn about the group and that is why the IRFU worked tirelessly with Simon Raiwalui, the high performance general manager of Fiji Rugby, to make the tour a reality and it is such a shame that it can now not go ahead. "We will be looking to source alternative fixtures and we hope to have them nailed down in the coming weeks."
Australian cricketers in limo after India’s IPL postponement SYDNEY (AP) – At least 38 Australians in the Indian Premier League were suspended at a time when they were banned from coming home due to the sudden closure of the lucrative cricket tournament. Cricket Australia and the players’ association said at a joint news conference on Wednesday that they are working with the IPL organizers to get players, coaches and commentators out of India as soon as possible. Some of the biggest stars of Australian cricket are in the IPL, which includes fast bowler Pat Cummins and batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner. Australian Cricketers Association chief executive Todd Greenberg said the Australian government’s decision to temporarily ban flights from India was causing concern, despite players being aware of potential travel-related problems during the epidemic. “He kept his eyes open for some of the challenges and risks,” Greenberg said. “What they did not expect was that the borders had to be closed. That kind of caused concern for them, like it would create concern for the 9,000 Australians
tackled in the opposition’s 20-metre zone 18 times compared to St George Illawarra’s eight times, for one try. They have Matt Burton on deck from 2022 but, again, he’s only young and not overly experienced at NRL level. The club is splashing cash on centres and wingers but a senior halfback wouldn’t go astray.
who are looking to come home.” “They are very hopeful that the government will reopen after May 15, but we are not under the illusion that the decision that the government has taken – and hopefully they – will get home to not only our cricketers, but more Australians.” Even to get home. “ India is in the grip of a catastrophic boom, which has struggled to supply oxygen to hospitals. The IPL was postponed indefinitely on Tuesday when players or employees of three of the eight franchises returned positive tests of COVID-19. Cricket Australia’s
interim chief executive Nick Hockley said Australian players in India would likely be moved to nearby countries such as the Maldives or Sri Lanka until they get a charter flight home. Players will then be subjected to quarantine for two weeks, which is mandatory for all travelers arriving in Australia. “Our heart is for everyone in India,” said Hawkley. He said, “IPL … They have come to the decision in the last 24 hours that it is in the interest of everyone’s health and safety to postpone the tournament indefinitely.” “I cannot speak more
BIRD BACK IN ORIGIN FORM It’s been four years since Jack Bird played in State of Origin but NSW coach Brad Fittler should consider ending the drought next month. The 26-year-old has rediscovered his best football after a few lean seasons hampered by serious injury up at Brisbane.
Since moving home to Wollongong, Bird has been in purple form for the Dragons – the club who let him go to Cronulla as a young star all those years ago. He won a premiership with the Sharks and played five Origin games for the Blues before injuries looked like ruining his career. He has been put at left centre by Red V coach
about BCCI, but all the franchisees, too, have worked to take care of our players and make plans to ensure that they arrive home safely and as quickly as possible.” Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is facing increasing pressure to lift a temporary ban on flights from India, saying that the early restoration of arrivals from an epidemic location would destroy the country’s quarantine capacity. Advocates are challenging the government’s ability to prevent around 9,000 citizens and permanent residents from returning to Australia from India.
Anthony Griffin but he could just as easily jump into the middle of the park and play lock, or in the halves if needed. His ball skills are elite, his running is strong and he’s aggressive in defence. His five Origin games were off the bench but he wouldn’t look out of place in the three-quarters for NSW this year.
FEDERAL BUDGET SUPPORTS QUEENSLAND’S RECOVERY PLAN Queensland continues to benefit from the Liberal and Nationals Government’s record infrastructure investment, with funding for major new projects to be announced in this week’s 2021-22 Budget, securing Australia’s recovery. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said these projects will make Queensland roads safer, improve public transport, reduce travel times and support thousands of jobs across the state. “From continuing upgrades on the Bruce Highway, to increasing our investment in rail on the Gold Coast - these projects will support more than 2,800 direct and indirect jobs across Queensland,” Prime Minister Morrison said. “Our record funding commitment is creating jobs, boosting business investment, while securing Australia’s COVID recovery.” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said this Budget demonstrated the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to investing in generationdefining projects right here in Queensland. “These initiatives will enhance transport connectivity, underpin economic growth and help Queenslanders get
Key projects to be funded include: • $400 million for the Inland Freight Route (Mungindi to Charters Towers) Upgrades • An additional $400 million for Bruce Highway Upgrades • $240 million for the Cairns Western Arterial Road Duplication • $178.1 million for the Gold Coast Rail Line Capacity Improvement (Kuraby to Beenleigh) – Preconstruction • $160 million for the Mooloolah River Interchange Upgrade (Packages 1 and 2) • An additional $126.6 million for Gold Coast Light Rail – Stage 3 • $35.3 million for the Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road and Pialba-Burrum Heads Road Intersection Upgrade; and • $10 million for the Caboolture – Bribie Island Road (Hickey Road-King John Creek) Upgrade. home sooner and safer,” the Deputy Prime Minister said. “We are backing Queensland jobs, we are backing Queensland
businesses, we are backing Queensland to keep being its best self as the State helps drive our economic recovery. “Our $400 million
investment for the Inland Freight Route will transform the way freight moves across the State, all the way from Mungindi to Charters Towers, increasing
productivity right through the Queensland economy.” Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Paul Fletcher said the Government is driving the delivery of major infrastructure projects to map the economic road back from the pandemic, building the economy and providing certainty for business over the long term. “The Australian Government will continue to invest in the Queensland economy in the coming years, through projects such as $178.1 million for capacity upgrades along the Gold Coast Rail Line from Kuraby to Beenleigh and $10m for the
Caboolture – Bribie Island Road Upgrade,” Minister Fletcher said. “Major projects delivered over the past year include the Mackay Ring Road – Stage 1 ($398 million federal investment) and the M1 Pacific Motorway – Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes Upgrade ($195 million federal investment).” The Australian Government looks forward to working constructively with the Queensland Government to deliver this infrastructure, supporting jobs and businesses right across Queensland. For more information on investments in Queensland visit http://investment. infrastructure.gov.au
RESUMPTION OF INDIAN REPATRIATION FLIGHTS TO HOWARD SPRINGS Government chartered repatriation flights to the Centre for National Resilience at Howard Springs for Australians returning from India will resume on May 15, after the completion of the current temporary ban on re-entry, the Morrison and Gunner Governments confirmed today. Since the pause on flights from India commenced there has been a sustained reduction in COVID-19 positive cases originating from India in Australia’s quarantine system. The National Security Committee of Cabinet was advised yesterday that the pause was working and that this would allow the repatriation flights to resume after May 15. The temporary ban will remain in place until that time, as intended. The number of COVID-19 positive cases in the Howard Springs has fallen to 21, from more than 50 cases a week ago, and positive
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cases associated with previous facilitated flights from India are on track to reach zero by 14 May. Repatriation flights into the Howard Springs will resume on May 15 with one flight per 7-9 days, with an estimated 1,000 Australians returning by the end of June. Vulnerable Australians will be prioritised on these flights. An initial repatriation flight to Darwin will leave India on May 15. Two further repatriation flights to the Northern Territory from India will be scheduled during May. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the flight pause has given the quarantine system space to operate safely and to protect Australians from the COVID-19 pandemic, with the travel pause remaining in place until May 15 with no changes. “The global COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage outside Australia’s borders and the temporary pause
on flights continues to give our quarantine facilities time to reduce infection rates and reduce the risk of COVID escaping into the community,” the Prime Minister said. “Closing our international borders and the use of quarantine for returning Australians has protected the health of all Australians during the pandemic and given us a way of life that is the envy of the world. “I have written to state and territory leaders to invite their participation in receiving direct repatriation flights from India over the coming weeks to further assist the efforts in Howard Springs. “I want to thank the Gunner Government, NT Health and our AUSMAT teams for continuing to provide safe and effective quarantine facilities at Howard Springs that is the best facility in the world.” New measures will be in place for all resuming
flights from India into the Northern Territory, which will require passengers to return both a negative COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test and a negative Rapid Antigen test before boarding. Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said these measures ensure the Commonwealth and Territory Governments can continue to get Australians home from India safely, while ensuring the case load at Howard Springs remains manageable. “The Territory always stands ready to help our fellow Australians and we were there to help those first Aussies home from Wuhan at the start of this pandemic,” Chief Minister Gunner said. “There is a humanitarian crisis in India and we have the gold standard facility with the health care heroes the country needs at our Centre for National Resilience to help get
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Australians home safely. “We are pleased with the drop in the active COVID-19 case load we have seen at Howard Springs since the temporary pause on reentry from India, and our clinical advice is that it is now safe to resume flights.” Commonwealth and Northern Territory health experts will assess the effectiveness of new preflight testing and isolation measures on infectivity rates in returning Australians on these May repatriation flights from India. While Howard Springs has managed the current COVID-19 peak without a single breach, it was important to reduce the high rate of incoming active cases during the second half of April to avoid putting pressure on the facility and NT Health systems. As a close friend and comprehensive strategic partner, Australia stands with India as it battles a surge in COVID-19
cases. More than 20,000 Australians have returned home on repatriation flights since the beginning of the pandemic. The Commonwealth and Territory governments are committed to continuing to get Australians home safely. The Commonwealth Government’s Biosecurity Act 2015 Determination has been effective in stemming the flow of positive cases into Australia to ensure the safety of Australia’s quarantine system. The Determination was designed to be a temporary measure and the medical advice provided to the Minister for Health is that it will be safe to remove the Determination on 15 May. The current ban on direct commercial passenger flights between India and Australia remains in place and will be reviewed shortly. Restrictions on travel exemptions for Australians seeking to travel to India will continue.
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 45
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Classes commence on Monday 12 July 21 Online Classes are held once per week and you can choose one from the following times: • 7:10 to 7:55 am Monday to Friday • 3:45 to 4:30 pm Monday to Thursday • 4:35 to 5:20 pm Monday to Thursday
Term 3 Fee: $208
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021 — 47
48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2021