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Volume 18, Number 9 Saturday, May 14th, 2022
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Politicians are wooing Indian Australians
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Article courtesy - Meghna Bali from ABC Scott Morrison's Facebook curry count for the election campaign currently sits at two. Three if you count the khichdi he made a day before calling the election. Morrison was celebrating Australia's new trade agreement with India and decided to cook his "dear friend" and Indian PM Nardendra Modi's favourite food. The posts have drawn
flak for being tokenistic, but they've also been viral hits, with some in the Indian community appreciating the cultural nod and wishing "ScoMo" the best for the election. The PM is not the only one trying to influence the IndianAustralian voter. Politicians across the spectrum are seeing Australia's Indian diaspora as a demographic of growing influence.
People born in India make up the second largest group of migrants to Australia, behind England and ahead of China. The number of Indian-born residents soared from 373,000 in 2011 to 710,000 in 2021. In the 2022 election, the Liberal and Labor campaigns have made coordinated efforts to appeal to the community by promising millions of dollars for cultural organisations, CONTD. ON PG 39
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From the Publisher WELCOME to the May issue of Brisbane Indian Times; dominating the news is the election campaign (at the time of printing). I can’t recall this style of campaigning in Australia ever before; it is a little too personal and dirty. When we got here in the ’80s, elections would come and go, and one would hardly notice much fuss. Without much conundrum, results would get announced in due course, and life went on. But as the years went by, elections got more and more intense, maybe we were not that aware or involved in the early years, but now it’s all a new ball game. Migrants’ influence has to a certain degree, influenced the way campaigning takes place these days. Talking about migrants, the aspiration of the CALD community to become elected representatives of their communities is ever increasing; many aspirants have previously burnt their fingers, but with the shift in demographics, the possibility is greater now than ever before. We have witnessed many elections promises in favor of the multicultural communities; the point to note is that these promises
can only be kept if the promising party forms government; at the time of making these promises, the government is in the caretaker mode, so that it will be dependent on the incoming government to honor these promises, some have branded these as a bid to buy votes. We can say that the election results are not clear-cut as all seats are highly contested; time will tell; let’s wait and see. June marks mid-year and the end of the financial year. This is of the world; we will all get busy with tax time; it is that challenging time of the year when the tax-savvy explore all avenues of minimizing tax, some the nightmare of stock take, closing, and balancing books all could be very distressful. At the same time, small business owners see this period as disruptive and unproductive, placing further restraint on their already stretched time. Congratulation to GOPIO Queensland Women’s Council for a highly successful high tea function held in City Hall. The event was to celebrate women while addressing gender inequality, domestic violence, and coercive control. The
lineup of speakers was superb, and their presentations were magnificent. The event was professionally conducted to a strict timeline. The large number of questions received via the suggestion box was a testament to the audience's engagement with the presenters. It was a moving experience to attend once again the Rwandan genocide commemoration held in the Queensland parliament. With such tragic and moving stories and lived experiences, the legacy continues, and the history must be discussed and passed on to the future generations, lest we forget. Talking about Lest we forget, this year we once again took part in the Dawn Service of ANZAC day at the Shrine of remembrance in Brisbane CBD. It has become our annual ritual, even a little bit of rain did not dampen the spirits of many who attended the dawn service. Since the pandemic hit, this was the largest crowd we had seen at the dawn service. I was honored to be a speaker/ presenter at the Mother language – cultural Diversity forum organized by Shane Newman MP and facilitated by Nayda Herandez; it was a great discussion and deliberation on the topic of the need to maintain our cultural heritage while upholding Australian Values, often a challenging situation for many migrant families. On 14th May, GOPIO Queensland observed Girmit Diwas (Indian Arrival Day in FIJI). This year marked their 9th year of celebrating this day in a similar tradition to ANZAC daymeaning the theme “lest we forget “is prevalent. GOPIO chapters worldwide and especially the chapters in countries where the descendants of Girmitiyas reside. Observe this day; GOPIO International successfully inaugurated a monument in Kolkata in January 2011, remembering all who left India under British rule. On Saturday 7th May, I proudly stood as a guard of honor at the Brisbane Lions match at Gabba, we would like to thank Brisbane Lions management for the opportunity and to share the corporate suite with many organizations working in the prevention of domestic violence space, and it was indeed a proud moment for us when Tim Class-Auliff wearing a white Ribbon jersey was recognized as the community champion at half time. Beyond DV was supported via the raffles at the match. Congratulation to the AIHCF committee on being promised $3.5 Million by the Liberal National party for their India House project; the funds would be made avail upon their reelection, a very generous and muchneeded election promise, well ladies and gentlemen; I would have to leave it here for now, until next month Happy Reading and remain safe. —Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher
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Automatic Visa Extensions For COVID-19 Affected Temporary Graduate Visa Holders On 18 February 2022, certain eligible Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders had their visas extended or refreshed to 30 September 2022 automatically by the Department of Home Affairs. Visa holders eligible for an extension were notified directly by the Department. This interim measure allows eligible Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders who were affected by COVID-19 travel restrictions to enter, or remain in, Australia to live and work until they can apply for and be granted a replacement Temporary Graduate visa. The Government recognises the valuable contribution of temporary visa holders and acknowledges the disruption caused by COVID-19. Eligibility To be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa extension: • Visa holders must have held a Temporary Graduate visa on 15 December 2021 • The current visa expires before 30 September 2022 • The primary visa holder was in Australia at time of the visa grant • The primary visa holder has been outside Australia for any period between 1 February 2020 and 14 December 2021 (inclusive) • The visa has not been cancelled since 15 December 2021 • The holder has not been granted a further substantive visa since 15 December 2021. To be eligible for visa refresh: • Visa holders must have held a Temporary Graduate visa that visa expired between 1 February 2020 and 14 December 2021 inclusive • The primary visa holder was in Australia at time of grant • The primary holder of the visa has been outside Australia for any period between 1 February 2020 and 14 December 2021 inclusive • The visa was not cancelled • The visa holder has not been granted a further substantive visa. Cost The visa extension is free and occurred automatically. Applicants do not need to contact
the Department. The visa extension will include family members that were included in the original Temporary Graduate visa. COVID-19 Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) replacement stream visa Applications for the COVID-19 Temporary Graduate replacement stream visa open on 1 July 2022. The Temporary Graduate replacement stream visa will give current and former visa holders impacted by COVID-19 travel restrictions the same length of stay as their original visa. Readers must note that Migration Guru has assisted a vast number of clients, in various and complex circumstances. 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. Unlike many other firms, the First Consultation at Migration Guru is completely free so that clients can get fair, accurate and upfront advise on their visa prospects. 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 Disclaimer: - The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues, and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual.
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Campbell Newman Fighting to Represent All Queenslanders in Senate
Campbell Newman with his wife, Lisa. Back in politics, Campbell Newman, AO, is now running as Lead Senate Candidate for the Liberal Democrats in Queensland. He left the Liberal National Party knowing that they had lost their way, and were no longer putting the people of Brisbane and South East Queensland first, as a major party should. Newman was known for never quitting and getting things done as Lord Mayor of Brisbane from 2004 to 2011 and Premier of Queensland from 2012 to 2015. The Liberal Democrats now most closely align to his values including fighting for lower taxes, less government spending, balanced budgets and a greater emphasis on personal freedoms with less
government interference. In running for the senate in Queensland, Newman wants to continue fighting for all Queenslanders in making sure everyone is represented equally, no matter their background. He is very disappointed to see that his former party the LNP has chosen to direct its preferences to One Nation. Some of the most important policies which Campbell Newman and the Liberal Democrats will be fighting for in South East Queensland include: Flood Mitigation “Brisbane and its surrounds will flood again,” Newman says. “This year proves that 2011 was not a one-off event.
Newman served as both Lord Mayor of Brisbane and Queensland Premier.
Newman speaks at Liberal Democrats’ campaign launch. ‘As Brisbane Lord Mayor I fought for flood mitigation and buy-back schemes which were rejected by the State Labor Government, and now they’re going hat-in-hand to the Federal Government for money to support a scheme they rejected. “As your senator in Canberra I will continue to fight for the three projects that should have been fast tracked including two new dams: Warrill Creek Willowbank; Linville - Upper Brisbane River and the raising of the Wivenhoe Dam wall by four metres. “The risks and environmental benefits have been known since 2014 and the Palaszczuk government shelved them in 2015.” Newman says that these
plans would have seen up to 10,000 homes and businesses protected from these latest floods in 2022. Inland Rail Newman’s vision for the Inland Rail project is for one that truly unlocks the productive capacity of Queensland, delivers significant supply chain savings for exporters and importers and saves significant dollars. The Liberal Democrats policy is that the Inland Rail should go to Toowoomba, but rather than also going to Brisbane it should instead be extended to the Port of Gladstone which has the water depth, available land and existing infrastructure to be the Rotterdam Port of
Australia. The Inland Rail continuing on to Gladstone will save the southern suburbs of Brisbane from a hugely disruptive railway line. This will also deliver the benefit of fewer coal trains transiting through the city. Small Business and Government Efficiency Newman and the Liberal Democrats will help small business and entrepreneurs thrive, and overcome the additional bureaucratic red tape that has been heaped on them, particularly in the last couple of years through the Covid crisis. Small business is the engine room of economic growth and job creation and
the Liberal Democrats will be steadfast in its opposition to new regulations and will work to see the burden on business lifted. The Liberal Democrats believe that every dollar the government takes off you in tax must be spent wisely and carefully and reject waste, inefficiency and excessive government spending. Savings will be directed toward you and your family via a $40,000 tax free threshold and a flat 20% tax rate thereafter. Newman says that the Liberal Democrats are the only sensible alternative to provide real leadership and to fight for Queensland. Vote 1 Liberal Democrats for the Senate and House of Representatives.
CAMPBELL NEWMAN IS BACK RUNNING FOR THE SENATE, AND WILL FIGHT FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN CANBERRA. VOTE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS: A DECISIVE LEADER DELIVER ON PROMISES FAMILY VALUES FREE SPEECH LOWER YOUR TAXES BALANCE THE BUDGET SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT SECURE RELIABLE ENERGY
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The Power of Inclusion - Sadhguru Whatever I face, any kind of situation, any kind of people, the moment I sit, I just look at them and I don’t even have to think. I just see them as a part of myself and speak to them as I would speak to myself. When you speak to yourself, you can say whatever is needed. There is no difficulty in it; there is no greatness about it. You just do what needs to be done. Once there is a sense of inclusion, awareness and consciousness comes naturally. Awareness is life. Life is awareness. There is no other way to be. So what is needed is consciousness. Consciousness is not individual, consciousness is always all-inclusive. If you are conscious, everything is included. You neither need confidence nor diffidence. You just function to the fullest of your intellectual capability without any hesitation. It is only because of exclusion that awareness has to be practiced. People are becoming such exclusive characters in the world. Most of your exclusiveness, you have created unconsciously. A part of it, you have created consciously because you thought that this is the way to get attention from the world, by trying to be special. Especially in
It is only because of exclusion that awareness has to be practiced. People are becoming such exclusive characters in the world. Most of your exclusiveness, you have created unconsciously. A part of it, you have created consciously because you thought that this is the way to get attention from the world, by trying to be special.
Western cultures, right from childhood, they are training you to be special. Trying to be special is the worst of diseases because once you get this disease, there is no salvation for you. Wherever you go, you have to do something stupid to prove that you are special. Isha Yoga is not about being special.
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It is about being extraordinary. In the old brochures, we used to say ‘Isha Yoga – Ordinary to Extraordinary.’ People thought if they come to the program, they would become very special. After they arrived, I would tell them, ‘No, you will become more ordinary than others. Extra-ordinary!’
When there is no effort to make yourself special, when you are simply ordinary, you will stand out as extra-ordinary. Allinclusiveness is extraordinary. It is just a way of life. When I say inclusion, it is not my philosophy, it is not something that I have made up – this is the way Existence is. It is
only in inclusiveness that Existence is functioning. If you are so exclusive, why are you inhaling what somebody else exhales? Try to breathe separately and see; you will be dead. It is only in inclusiveness that life is happening. When we talk about inclusiveness, we are not teaching you a new
philosophy. We are talking about falling back into the way life is, just ordinary as it is. It is ordinary but it is magnificent. Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and a New York Times bestselling author Sadhguru has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India in 2017, the highest annual civilian award, accorded for exceptional and distinguished service.
Your official guide
to the 2022 federal election
By now you should have received your copy of the official guide to the 2022 federal election in your mailbox. You can download translated versions at aec.gov.au/translated. The guide has all the information you need to make your vote count on election day, Saturday 21 May. All Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to vote.
Your vote will help shape Australia. To learn more
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Fiji is a quintessential island paradise
By Rama Gaind Think Fiji. Close your eyes and, for the most part, all you can visualise is lazy, hazy days, basking in the sun. Getting re-acquainted with the delights of travel, and Fiji, also means appreciating the positives of this quintessential island paradise. A country in the southern Pacific Ocean, Fiji is famed for rugged landscapes, palmlined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. Wellknown for its intense tropical beauty, it should not come as a surprise to learn that many people spend most of their time here on and around the beach. While there are plenty of stunning shores to explore, those looking for change will discover some unique and interesting cultural attractions. Re-experiencing some of the natural wonders was invigorating. Enjoy the amazing underwater beauty as you scuba dive with manta rays; get a taste of island life on the lush, mountainous Robinson Crusoe Island; take a fascinating look into Fiji’s past at the Fiji Museum, in Suva; combine ancient history with natural beauty to see the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park; visit the Garden Island to witness the natural beauty of Taveuni Island; soak in the waters at Sabeto Hot Springs close to Nadi to rejuvenate your mind and body; enjoy an unbelievable way of preparing food and eat dinner cooked in a traditional Fijian lovo; or spend time island-hopping by boat!
Whether its waterfalls, reefs or pristine waters perfect for divers, Fiji has some notable sights. Being the largest cave system, it’s not hard to believe when you realise that Naihehe literally translated into English means ‘a place to get lost’. On arrival at the caves, it is important to seek permission of the Bete (priest), the traditional protector of the cave. There are many hot springs in Fiji, but those at Savusavu have an interesting historical background. Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, in Nadi, is brightly coloured and is the largest Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere. It’s one of few places where Dravidian architecture can be seen outside of India. Another
religious site is the Sacred Cobra Rock, housed in what has been called the ‘snake temple’ in Labasa, the largest town on Vanua Levu. The locals believe that the rock, which is shaped like a cobra, can cure the sick and the infertile. Tavuni Hill Fort, Sigatoka, is a semi-restored ancient fort. The items displayed inside, are almost perfectly preserved, and provide a direct look into Fijian history. Film incentive Another fascinating fact was learning about incentives from the Fiji government to attract film producers. It provides a tax rebate to fully-funded overseas film
productions as a means to encourage producers to use the enormous potential of the islands. The use of its stunning backdrops in films will once again generate more tourism for Fiji. It offers a variety of scenic locations including aquamarine seas, coral reefs, sandy and secluded beaches fringed by palm trees and endless sunshine, lush tropical greenery and rocky hills, coconut groves and sugarcane fields. No wonder film producers have chosen Fiji for many films – both from Hollywood and Bollywood. Over the years, titles have included The Blue Lagoon (1980), Contact (1997), Cast Away (2000) and Fantasy Island (2020). Fijian islands have also emerged as hotspots for
Indian films. Several Hindi movies shot on the picturesque locales are 3G, Warning, Bombay Mumbai, Kia, Let's Talk Love and Table No. 21, to name but a few. Island wonderland When it comes to islands, Viti Levu is the largest, called home by 70 per cent of the nation’s population, followed by Vanua Levu, formerly known as Sandalwood Island. An archipelago of more than 300 islands, the major ones, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain most of the population. Viti Levu is home to the capital, Suva, a port city with British colonial architecture. The Fiji Museum, in the Victorian-
era Thurston Gardens, has ethnographic exhibits. Apart from a large number of islands, Fiji also has at least 500 islets. The residents reside in 110 of the nation's biggest islands with Viti Levu and Vanua Levu having the most significant population. Spend some time discovering the ancient sights and delving into Fiji’s past on the main island of Viti Levu or experiencing a taste of island life as you explore the region's volcanic landscapes, lush jungles and traditional villages. Endless fun and fabulous facilities await every type of traveller who goes to this tropical island nation. The slogan says it all: ‘Fiji. Oh, so easy!’
Beachside relaxation makes for an ideal holiday in Fiji. Photo: Rama Gaind
The brightly-coloured Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple is in Nadi. Photo: Rama Gaind
Staying in a resort in Fiji boasts endless fun and fabulous facilities suited to every kind of traveller.
BEING AT PEACE WITH YOURSELF
Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au
Dear reader, it is with much joy we bring to you the word of God. I want to talk to you today about: being comfortable not knowing. We all have faced situations where we have said and done things that we are not happy about. It looked okay, but when you realise it was all wrong, it is easy to let guilt and shame become a part of your present and future. The good news is that
you don't have to have a perfect past to have a promising future. You can be at peace with yourself. When Jesus was being crucified, one of the last words He said was, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they do." God knows that there will be people who will do things in every generation they won't be happy about later. Often people have hurt others because they have been injured in the past. Some people are quick to find fault in others because, growing up, they were told how many weaknesses and shortcomings they had. Then some people keep blaming others because they were accused of everything which could go wrong around them. Now they take comfort in doing the same to others. It is easy to hurt people when we are supposed to love them. In the scripture, we read about Paul, a religious man
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who went about persecuting Christians entering house to house, dragging men and women, and committing them to prison. Under his command, many people suffered greatly, and some died. At the time, it looked good to him as he thought he was doing a great service to his people and his God. Then one day, while on a trip to hurt more Christians, he met Jesus, fell from his horse, was blinded for 3 days. When his eyes opened he saw everything in a new way. He realised how much suffering and loss he had caused others. Above all he acknowledged that he could not go back and change any of his past actions. Yet he accepted the powerful words Jesus had spoken at the cross, "Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." These words brought so much comfort and peace in the life of Paul. He goes on to say, "forgetting my past, I press on towards the goal." Paul knew he
had a choice. Either stay stuck in his past with a victim mentality trying to fix his past mistakes, or trust Jesus and the forgiveness He has offered and start living in victory. Here are 3 things we can learn from Paul. 1- You are a victor and not a victim. No matter what you have been through, you are still here. Like Paul, everyone has the choice to be a victim or a victor due to their painful past experiences. It is all in how you perceive your experience. You can become empowered by all you have done or went through, knowing you are a true survivor, or feel sorry for yourself and stay stuck in self-pity. Paul says, "I did things I didn't know at the time were wrong, yet I choose to forget those things of the past and reach forward to those things which are ahead." And
remember, your past does not define you. It prepares you. 2- You have already been forgiven. This is a gift from God. Not to earn it. But thru His grace. Paul grew up convinced that Jesus was a fraud and a liar and that His followers were both deceived and dangerous to society. But when he received forgiveness from God, he recognized his new life through Jesus. He writes, "If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation. Old things have passed away, and all things have become new." Paul had a choice, either to remain unforgiven, which was his old life or accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour, which was his new life, thus receiving this gift of forgiveness from God. He chose the latter and so can you. 3You have eternal life through Jesus Christ. Paul thought his religious acts could give him eternal life. In
his ignorance, he worked hard to attain salvation. But after his encounter with Jesus, Paul writes, "For whatever gain I thought, I had, now I consider it a loss." Without being forgiven, he would remain a sinner. Again, he says, "the wages of sin is death, but God's free gift is eternal life through Jesus Christ. Like Paul, we have said things that we may not be happy about. We may have done things believing it was the right thing to do at the time. But God knows how to turn something bad into something extraordinary. Jesus said, "Father forgive them for they do not know." More than 2000 years ago, God forgave you through His Son Jesus. My encouragement for you is do not delay but receive this gift from God for yourself! God bless you. Pastor Joseph Suresh Dass josephdass@optusnet.com.au
Can’t make it on Election Day?
If you can’t vote on Saturday, 21 May, you may be eligible to vote early. All Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to vote. So, if you can’t make it to a polling place on election day, you may be eligible to: • vote early at an early voting centre, or • apply for a postal vote. If you’re travelling, working or will be outside the electorate where you’re enrolled on election day, you can vote early. A range of COVID-19 safety measures will be in place this election.
To check early voting options and eligibility, visit aec.gov.au/early
Your vote will help shape Australia. To learn more
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Shri Ram Naumi Utsav - Gayatri Mandir, Boondall
By Dharmesh Prasad Sarveshu Ramante itihi Ramah Jo saab me raman karta hai wo hai Ram, ‘’that which revels in every one of us, the pure self, light of consciousness, the Atman is Ram. Hindu society of Qld celebrated Shri Ram Naumi Utsav with great zeal and passion, decked with arches, lights and decorations, members of the Committee welcomed all the devotees with tilak. It created an atmosphere of celebration, positivity and anticipation of Ram Janam. Our lives are an Utsav/celebration as such we should celebrate our existence with a balance of spirituality and material prosperity. The Committee received many messages of support and positive
feedback from the devotees. Characterisation of Ramayana is symbolic, Lord Rama symbolises self-luminous and pure consciousness, there are two different manifestations’, Nirgund and Sargund. When we say Sargund, Lord Ram has manifested/born as a human being to perform the divine play and teach humanity the art of living. Lord Ram lived the Vedas to provide a lesson in life, he had 108 qualities in him that made Ram “Mahapursuh”. Nirgund is the Awareness and Consciousness as Atman – atma rupi bhagwan resides in each of us, it is still present today even though the Sargund Ram has dissolved in the nature-prakriti. Sita represents the ego, the Jeeva, the mind. As long as Sita’s attention is on Ram, she was ever blissful. Similarly, we are happy as
long as we are attuned to the inner-self, thus this is the perfect union of Ram and Sita. Lakshman personifies tapas-austerity and one pointedness. When desire overtakes us, tapas also leave. But even if we are desiring and covetous, still we may not come to harm if we remain within the confines of discipline and self-control – this is known as Lakashman-Rekha.As soon as we step out of it, we are captured and consumed by the ten headed monster in the form of Ravan.Ten head symbolises five sensory organs (gyan indriya) and five organs of action (karam indriya) This represents the extrovert nature, fulfilment of sensual desires and material affluence which is devoid of spirituality. Hanumanji Maharaj represents Sharadha bhakti,
spiritual inner strength, devotion and faith which proves to us that lord is always with us. Similarly other characters symbolise three modes of nature-gunas, vibihshan – Sattva, Ravan – Rajas and Kumbhkaran – Tamas, these qualities are still present in us today and on a daily basis we need to work on ourselves to be a better version of who we are. We must not see Ramayana as a story of Lord Ram, Lakshman, Sita, Hanumanji Maharaj but understand that these events are happening to us in our daily lives, as we become astray in life, we suffer the duality of life, we are unable to transcend pain and pleasure hence dukkha – suffering. Pujinye Pundit Suresh Shandil expounded the Ramayana over nine days, a strong turnout was
present daily. His message to devotees was, Lord Ram is the epitome of kindness, compassion, and love. Lord Ram’s wisdom and patience made it possible for him to follow his inner good without worrying about the loss of luxuries and kingship. Pujinye Punditji also explained the valuable life lessons which occurred seven thousand years ago yet so relevant today. It is not your position but your service that matters the most, truth always prevails, plant seeds of faith and unity can overcome any difficulty in life. Be deeply committed to your duty (dharma), choose the path of righteousness, remain humble no matter how powerful you become, treat everyone equally and forgiveness is greater than revenge. Hindu Society of Queensland has embarked
on a database project, many devotees have moved and have new details as such we are updating membership details like mobile phone numbers, email address etc. This would assist us to communicate better and update members on latest developments at the mandir, please contact Secretary Mrs Nirmala Shandi on 0466 436 964 or Asst Secretary Mrs Neelima Chand on 0405 409 156 or alternatively email us at gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com. Many Thanks for your support. Please visit our new website www. hindusocietyqld.org.au , our email address is gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com. We have a feedback and contact us page, feel free to provide us feedback and we will be happy to oblige.
Upcoming Events
Ramayan Recital every Tuesday: 7.00pm to 8.30pm 13 May – Girmit Remembrance – Tribute to Girmitiyas - program begins at 7pm followed by dinner 28 May – Sundarkand and Trayodashi - programs begins at 6.00pm followed by Prasad and Mahaprasad Sundarkand and Trayodashi is held every month at the mandir, for details and sponsorship please kindly visit our website and Facebook page. Regular updates will be sent to all devotees via Facebook and text messages. Stay Connected with Hindu Society of Queensland W: www.hindusocietyqld.org.au F: Hindu Society of Qld’s Gayatri Mandir and email us on gayatrimandirqld@gmail.com Phone: (07) 3865 3164 Address: 178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall QLD
Preserving Mother Language, A Cultural Diversity Forum PLAINS Preserving Mother Language, A Cultural Diversity Forum, was organized by Hon. Shayne Neumann MP for Blair. Elected to the Federal seat of Blair in November 2007 and re-elected in 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019. In March 2013, he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney-General and Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Ageing. After the 2013 Federal election, he was appointed Shadow Minister for Indigenous Affairs and Ageing. In 2016, he was appointed Shadow Minister for Immigration and Border Protection. After the 2019 Federal election, he was appointed Shadow Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Defence Personnel. The MC for the diversity forum was Nayda Hernandez, and the presenters were Umesh 12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
Chandra OAM, Dr. Jishu Das Gupta, Dr. Ashutosh Mishra, Linh Nguyen, and Roxanne Davis. The forum deliberated on what cultural diversity meant for each of them. The following discussion point was promoting cultural diversity via education—a challenging discussion on how inclusion could be better promoted through legislation. Last, but not least, a debate took place on
the importance of preserving culture now and in the future. A Question-andanswer session followed the panel discussion. The event finished off with a dance performance by “Dream Team,” networking, and refreshment; the lively post-event discussion was a clear indication of the general interest in the topic; many lucky winners went away with raffle prizes.
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Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland HANUMAN JAYANTI Hanuman Jayanti is the birthday anniversary of Veer Hanuman Ji, an eminent scholar of the Vedas and grammarian, a celibate who demonstrated immense self-control, the mighty, clever and wise, devotee and helpmate of Shri Ram Ji. The Ramayana, one of the greatest epics of humanity written by Sage Valmiki, is not just a story. It is a prominent educational medium to demonstrate the importance of values and ethics in life. A key personality of the Ramayana, Veer Hanuman Ji was an ideal combination of strength, heroic initiative and assertive excellence. He exemplified unlimited selfless love and emotional devotion to Shri Ram JI. The characters depict what we usually aspire to be like. Hanuman Ji, a human being and an accomplished Yogi: His father was Kesari and mother Anjanee, both human beings; common sense says that the child of human beings should be human being. That affirmation is confirmed in the Valmiki Ramayan and the later script – Hanuman Chaalisa, Hanuman was a scholarly person who mastered the Scriptures (VEDAS) and ancillary spiritual texts (Vidyavaan guni ati chatur). He carried the mace in one hand, the flag in the other, and wore the sacred thread on his shoulder (Haath Vajra Aur Dhuvaje Viraaje Kaandhe moonj janehu sajai). Hanuman was an accomplished Yogi (Ashta-sidhi nav nidhi ke dhaataa). He belonged to Vaanara community. The common meaning is monkey BUT etymology of the word reveals:
Acharya Bramdeo Mokoonlall Hindu Center of Atlanta Van = forest + nara = human being, that is forest dweller. He has a focused and devoted mind and to become like Hanuman Ji we need to tame our monkey-like mind, assert our being-ness by living in the present learning our lessons from past experiences but not dwell on the past griefs a well as plan the future but ending our life in dreaming. ब्रह्मचारी, तपस्वी, महाबली महावीर श्री हनुमान 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, यजुर्द वे और सामवेद तथा संस्कृ त 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 । श्री हनुमान जी की जयंती के दिन महावीर हनुमान जी के गुणों को धारण करने का संकल्प लेवें। ओ३म ्
भ्रांतियां या सश ं य
प्रत्येक व्यक्ति की बुद्धि अलग है , वह अपनी बुद्धि से सोचता है , और सोचेगा, आपकी बुद्धि से नहीं। और जब तक वह न चाहे , तब तक आप किसी की बुद्धि को बदल नहीं सकते। प्रायः लोग यह चाहते हैं , कि दस ू रे लोग हमें अच्छा व्यक्ति मानें। अच्छा व्यक्ति समझें। "चाहे हम अच्छे हों, या ना हों, फिर भी दस ू रे लोग हमें अच्छा ही समझें/मानें। और जब हम अच्छे हों ही, तब तो कम से कम हमें अच्छा अवश्य समझें। परं तु प्रत्येक व्यक्ति अल्पज्ञ है । "ल्पज्ञ होने से उसे भ्रांतियां या संशय होते रहते हैं । उन भ्रांतियों या संशय के कारण वह अनेक गलतियां करता है । और दस ू रों के प्रति अपनी धारणा बना लेता है , कि "यह व्यक्ति ऐसा है , और वह व्यक्ति ऐसा है । कभी कभी दस ू रे लोग भी उसे भड़का दे ते हैं , विरुद्ध बातें उसके दिमाग में भर दे ते हैं । जिससे कि उसको भ्रांति या संशय उत्पन्न हो जाता है , और वह दस ू रों के प्रति अपनी गलत धारणा बना लेता है । अब दस ू रे लोगों की तरह आप भी यही चाहते हैं कि "लोग हमारे प्रति अच्छी धारणा बनाए रखें।" और उसके लिए आप चिंतित भी रहते हैं , कि "दस ू रा व्यक्ति मुझे गलत न समझे, जो कि असंभव है । वह आप को कहीं न कहीं गलत तो समझेगा ही। क्योंकि वह परमात्मा की तरह सर्वज्ञ नहीं है । और सर्वज्ञ न होने से, उसको कुछ न कुछ भ्रांति संशय आपके प्रति रहे गा ही। इसलिए दस ू रे की चिंता न करें । आप कितना भी ज़ोर लगा लें, कितना भी समझा लें, कुछ व्यक्ति फिर भी आपकी बात ठीक से नहीं
Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre
समझेगा। यदि बहुत से प्रमाण तर्क दे कर, आज 2 घंटा समय लगा कर आपने उस मूर्ख व्यक्ति को समझा भी दिया, कि "मैं ऐसा नहीं हूं। आप मेरे बारे में ऐसा न सोचें।" तो कल कोई दस ू रा व्यक्ति चालाकी से उसे फिर भड़का दे गा। और फिर आपकी सारी मेहनत बेकार हो जाएगी। इसलिए इस तरह के कुछ लोग की चिंता न करें , कि वे आप के विषय में क्या सोचते हैं , या कैसी धारणा रखते हैं । हां, आपके आसपास यदि कोई बुद्धिमान व्यक्ति हों, जो आपकी बात को समझते हों, प्रमाण तर्क को समझते हों, आवश्यकता पड़ने पर आप उनको अवश्य समझा दें , कि "मैं ऐसा नहीं हूं। मेरे बारे में आप उल्टा सीधा विचार न करें ।" वे बुद्धिमान लोग आपकी बात को समझ लेंगे। और "यदि कोई मूर्ख उनके सामने कुछ उलट-पुलट बोलेगा भी, तो वे उनको समझा भी दें गे।" बस इतना ही करें । इससे अधिक चिंता न करें , और सदा प्रसन्न रहें । ज़रा सोचिए, "क्या सब लोग ईश्वर को ठीक ठीक समझते हैं ? नहीं समझते। जब नहीं समझते, ईश्वर के विषय में भी बहुत भ्रांति और संशय में रहते हैं , उसे बहुत बुरा भला कहते हैं , उस पर बहुत से झूठे आरोप भी लगाते हैं , फिर भी ईश्वर उन मूर्खों की कोई चिंता नहीं करता और मस्ती से अपना काम करता रहता है । ईश्वर के गुण कर्म स्वभाव के अनुसार ही हमें और आपको भी सोचना चाहिए। उसकी तरह से ही मस्त रहना चाहिए। इसी ढं ग से आप ठीक-ठाक जी पाएंगे, अन्यथा सारा जीवन दख ु ी रहें गे।ओ३म ् स्वामी विवेकानंद परिव्राजक जी
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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. ओ३म ्
Sangeet Shradhanjali Lata Mangeshkar Ji
ओ३म ् Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc members held a very rewarding/gratifying Sangeet Shradhanjali program at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre Saturday 16.04.2022-homage श्रद्धांजलि to the Nightingale of India, Queen of Melody,Voice of the Millennium respected Lata Mangeshkar Ji winner of Padma Bhushan,Dadasaheb Phalke Award ,Bharat Ratna India's highest civilian honour ,France highest civilian award, Officer of the National Order of the Legion of Honour, and many many other accolades and honors . लता मंगेशकर जी ऐसी प्रख्यात गायिका जिनकी पूरे विश्व में एक अलग पहचान थी Lata Ji widely considered to have been one of the greatest and most influential singers. Her contribution to the Indian music industry in a career spanning over seven decades gained her honorific titles. This very entertaining captivating program Lata Ji ke Yaaden which the audience really enjoyed with fascinating songs kept the guests engaged,glued on various intriguing presentations. The musical program by the competent experienced musicians -Miss.Zaisha Chakraborty Ji, Miss. Anenesha Chakraborty Ji,Mrs.Bondita ChakrabortyJi
Mr.Mithun Chakraborty Ji, Mr.Ramesh Kumar Singh Ji Mrs.Satya B.Singh Ji Mrs. Sharda Kumari Ji Mr.Jitend Chand Ji Mrs.Chadni Chand Ji with assistance from other singers. The guests really enjoyed,loved and relished
the proficiently produced melodious program. Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc members had made outstanding arrangements for delicious, mouth watering dinner and flavoursome refreshments/ snacks/ mishthaan for all.
We express our deep gratitude, appreciation to everyone who contributed in any way and participated in the लता मंगेशकर जी संगीत श्रद्धांजलि musical tribute program. धन्यवाद नमस्ते जी ओ३म ्
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 21
THE FIJI TIMES 152nd ANNIVERSARY – CONCLUDING PART 4 of 4
THE FALL OF CHAUDHRY GOVERNMENT IN 2000 AND THE ROLE OF FT IN THAT and - to hell with democracy and media ethics.
Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT
CONTD. FROM APRIL MONTH As my research required the bearing and relevance of media theories applicable to FT, it would appear that this one fitted the bill. FT seemed to gang up with the business community to protect the elite interests, be that the business or influential chiefs who had lost out to Chaudhry and were afraid to be exposed. This became especially more crucial where Chaudhry was known to despise abuse of office and power, had a heart for socialism, was an astute finance man and a former Auditor who could spell many dangers for businesses and politicians who were not “clean.” This Propaganda Model came into play when Chaudhry imposed licence on rice and in his social justice speech, announced new policies on minimum wages and redistribution of wealth. FT’s defence of the business community and its failure to properly explain and debate the issue about social democracy showed its leaning and favour towards its advertisers, politicians, influential Chiefs and the business community. This provided ample reason why the well-connected people wished to see the end of Chaudhry regime, lest it hit their bottom-line, or even gain jailterms, with the requirement of sharing wealth with the poorer section of the community and some of their questionable dealings. Therefore, it was essential to cut down Peoples Coalition Government before it became a real threat to the vested interests,
DISCUSSION Was FT solely responsible for downfall of Chaudhry’s Peoples Coalition Government? What happened in Fiji cannot be fully attributed to the actions of George Speight. While FT helped create such an atmosphere that was ripe for the removal of the government from means other than democratic, contributory factors from Chaudhry’s style of leadership hastened the process and discouraged any uprising in support of democracy. Had Chaudhry been able to build bridges, especially with the Itaukei community and its institutions, such huge support for Speight may not have been there. If anything, Itaukei themselves may have caused an uprising to support democracy. However nothing like that happened with an insensitive and abrasive style of doing things that was not conducive to the Fijian/Itaukei way and ethos of getting things done. Unpopular decisions taken on the strength of democracy in a young nation where democracy to the Fijian culture had been fairly recent, the rapid action based on such mandate was a foolhardy action which MPC took despite ample warning from all the sources. It has been already revealed in social media by a reliable source that Chaudhry was cautioned by the American Embassy intelligence, and personally by the then Ambassador, of the Speight-type uprising, which he ignored. He even failed to heed warnings of his Home Affairs Minister and had the recklessness of surrounding himself with undeserving “Yes, Prime Minister” type of advisors. Tinkering with the Constitution, fiddling with land, appointment of his son and inability to maintain accord within his coalition-partners led to his early demise which did not see any uprising to support him. Perhaps Fiji’s greatest historian Professor Brij Vilash Lal, banned from his land of birth
Fiji Times commenced in Fiji in 1869 - ten years before the first arrival of indentured Girmitiyas from India. However, as my analysis of the past 4 article revealed, they never had a soft heart for the vulnerable Indians. Even under journalistic principles, they never seemed to have been neutral and impartial, were always opinionated negatively about Girmitiyas, and their descendants, and never raised any concerns about their ill-treatment at the hands of the White men. In 2021 they marked 152nd anniversary, and my articles tended to paint the picture nobody dared report in the past. by Khaiyum and Bainimarama, summed the win of People’s Coalition well as a Pyrrhic victory, which is a victory that comes at a great cost, perhaps making the ordeal to win not worth it. Final Word There is little doubt that the analysis carried out in this research shows that FT did not behave or operate like a responsible media in a developing nation where the concept of democracy was still new to the ‘natives’ and FT’s obsession with racial overtones in its stories divided the nation. All the good things about media being a uniting force were never seen in FT. If anything FT lived
Amazing Grace… Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”
Key Scripture: 1 Corithians 15:8-10
A paraphrase from St. Paul in the Bible, which states, "Last of all, as to one born abnormally, he appeared to me. For I am the least of the apostles, not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am…”. What is the meaning of Amazing Grace of God? Grace, in Christian theology, the spontaneous, unmerited gift of the divine favour in the salvation of sinners, and the divine influence operating in individuals for their regeneration (of spirit) and sanctification (of life).
This is the true story of John Newtown. In 1748, this English slave trader, during his return voyage to England aboard the ship Greyhound; John Newton had a powerful spiritual encounter with Jesus Christ. He awoke to find the ship caught in a severe storm off the
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coast of Donegal, Ireland and about to sink. In his desperation, Newton began praying for God's mercy, after which the storm began to die down. After a month in the sea, his ship safely reached Ireland. This experience marked the beginning of his born again experience to Christianity. He began to read the Holy Bible and other Christian literature. By the time he reached Britain, he had accepted the Jesus as His Lord and Saviour. The date was 10 March 1748, an anniversary he marked for the rest of his life. From that point on, he avoided profanity, gambling and drinking. Although he continued to work in the slave trade for some time. But later John Newton influenced William Wilberforce to abolish slave trading. John Newtown deep convictions were beautifully written out in His Hymn song of praise to Jesus. This song has comforted, strengthened and healed many broken hearts.
to its accusation of being antiIndian since it was established in 1869, as already revealed in PART 1 of this series of articles. It also lived according to traits of the Propaganda Model where FT was seen to protect the interest of the Itaukei political elite and the business community. While no proof has come to court to substantiate the hands of business community in the fall of People’s Coalition Government, this research gave enough motives for that and why the business community wished to see Chaudhry go. If a percentage were to be allocated for ease of understanding, then perhaps FT contribution in causing and
giving rise to an environment for the fall of democracy rests at 60% while Chaudhry’s inherent problems contributed to the other 40%. Chaudhry lived to one prediction and fear all had about him: Chaudhry’s worst enemy was - Chaudhry himself. And as predicted by some, including your truly, he fell on his own sword. Despite the passage of time, the partisan approach of the newspaper towards the elite class has not changed. Times (pun intended) have changed; from Gillion’s (1977) reporting of the 1860s to my research covering 2,000 in the new millennium. Even the elites have changed; from the CSR, the British government and the Europeans to the indigenous Fijian chiefs, the Fijian elites running the government and the predominantly Indian business community. What has not changed is the credibility of the Propaganda Model of Media which remained steadfast in giving credence to Herman and Chomsky’s (2008) theory on how the media becomes the lapdog and mouthpiece of the ruling elites - and is mostly interested in making money. (Does that remind you of another print media and a radio station in Fiji now? I did not say anything!) HA HA HA -THE LAST LAUGH The Fiji Times was forced to abandon Fiji. It has now been bought by the Motibhai Group. What is interesting here is the media ownership now rests in the hands of exactly those people who were accused and suspected of supporting the divisive elements in the removal of Chaudhry’s People’s Coalition Government, which was shifting towards a socialistic trend. Check the private media ownership in Fiji, and majority are owned by Gujarati Business Community. Fiji’s business Indian community, the Gujarati community now controls almost 90% of Fiji’s print media. C.J. Patel with Vinod Patel, owns the Fiji Sun, while Moti Bhai now owns FT. Hari Punja has shares in the
Pic. Source: www.gracebaptistsimcoe.com
More than two centuries later, this song can strike deep chords into listeners heart. Listen to the following lyrics of former slave trader who encountered Jesus as his Amazing Grace. Amazing grace how sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now I'm found Was blind, but now I see 'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear And grace my fears relieved How precious did that grace
appear The hour I first believed The Lord has promised good to me His word my hope secures He will my shield and portion be As long as life endures When we’ve been there ten thousand years Bright shining as the sun We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise Than when we first begun Here is what we want our readers take into heart. We all have
radio station, Communications Fiji Limited. Ha Ha Ha – What an irony in Fiji Media ownership. The elite the Fiji Times was trying to protect has now ended up controlling Fiji media. What hope, common people, the Aam Aadmi? Future research While this research could claim to be the genesis of such a detailed media analysis of a Fiji media, this also provides a springboard for future research. The new balance of media ownership, coupled with the new media decrees, and possibly a new-media-friendly government in future, would provide rich fodder for an ongoing research to gauge the transition of Fiji media into a “real” Third World media. This author harbours a wish to carry this research forward with a doctoral thesis in this area, given appropriate resources. USP or FNU - go ahead, make my day. I am now retired and would not mind a break in Fiji, with my already rich experience in this area. (Perhaps my surname does not qualify me for such favours!) [About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is former publisher of now closed, partly governmentowned Daily Post newspaper, a journalist, a media commentator, a community worker in Auckland and runs his blog FIJI PUNDIT. He did a research on the role of the Fiji Times in contributing to destabilising of democracy by a partisan newspaper that culminated in Speight’s attempted coup in 2000. Contents in the four-part articles are largely from his Masters in Communication (MCS) thesis at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) in 2011, and already published materials. All reference to Fiji Times is to the foreign owned entity prior to localisation in 2010. E-mail: thakurjifj@gmail.com] Link to thesis: https:// openrepository.aut.ac.nz/ handle/10292/2554 Link to Fiji TV Close-up with Kaitani: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=hM481jp0Ddc
sinned like John Newton. We all were blind and hopeless wretch. But when we open our hearts to the amazing grace of God, we too can experience Christ’s forgiveness and reconciliation. We can experience a true and meaningful relationship with our Creator and King. Therefore, we invite you to enter into a life giving relationship with Amazing Grace Giver Jesus. We invite you to pray this simple prayer with a sincere heart. Dear Father God, Today, I thank you for your word that has touched my heart. Thank you for your amazing grace. I sincerely repent of my wrongs and I confess with my mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’. And I believe in my heart that Jesus died for my sins, God raised Jesus from the dead for my Mukti (Salvation). Help me to know Jesus more and more so that I can grow in the knowledge of your grace and mercy. Teach me your ways so that I can be person who will learn to honour you and learn to love each other. Amen. Our email: navig8grace@gmail.com
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Deshratna Dr Rajendra Prasad Dr Rajendra Prasad was the first President of Independent India. He fought for Indian independence under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and was one of his most trusted followers. Early Life - Rajendra Prasad was born in Ziradei, a village in Siwan district in the state of Bihar, on 3rd of December 1884. He was the youngest child and had one elder brother Mahendra Prasad and three elder sisters. His ancestors had moved to Ziradei from eastern Uttar Pradesh and had attained prominence through their education and keen minds. His great-uncle Chaudhar Lal became a Dewan, the chief administrator, of Hathua Raj, a large landed estate in the region. Through his careful management, he soon acquired big farmlands and became a Jamindar, landlord. Rajendra Prasad’s father Munshi Mahadev Sahai was a scholar of Sanskrit and Persian. He was also fond of wrestling and horticulture, and provided free Ayurvedic and Unani treatment to patients who came to him. Rajendra Prasad’s mother Kamaleshwari Devi was a religious lady. She brought him up to cherish the best ideals of ancient Hindu tradition, and used to tell him stories from the Ramayan and Mahabharat. After her death, his elder sister Bhagawati Devi who had become a widow at an early age and stayed with the family played his mother’s role. There was no school in the village and nearby. A Maulavi was engaged to teach him Persian and Urdu. A weaver taught him Hindi and elementary mathematics. After completing his primary education, he was admitted to the Chhapara District School. At the age of thirteen, he was married to Rajavanshi Devi. Child marriage was prevalent during that period. Rajvanshi Devi followed customary family traditions. Rajendra Prasad was admitted to the TK Ghosh Academy in Patna and studied there for two years. In 1902, he passed the entrance examination to Calcutta University with first class and was awarded a scholarship of Rupees 30 per month, which was a substantial amount at that time. He joined the Presidency College at Kolkata as a science student. Later, he pursued the Arts course. He had a brilliant academic career and attained first in every examination and won several scholarships. Impressed by the quality of his answer sheets, an examiner commented that ‘the examinee is better than the examiner”. Rajendra Prasad obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree with a first division in 1906. At this stage, he became obsessed with the idea of going to England and appearing in the Indian Civil Service examination. His brother supported him, but his father and other family members were firmly against his plan. During this period his father was seriously ill. He dropped the idea, as he could not go against family’s wishes. He continued his study and obtained the Master of Arts degree in Economics with a first division from the same university. He was a public activist and was elected to the position of Secretary of the College Union.
He founded the Bihari Students Conference, which taught the members to organise themselves and provided a forum for training in the art of public speaking. He joined The Down Society, which was formed to promote education and understanding of Indian heritage, achievements, culture and philosophies. After obtaining his MA degree, Rajendra Prasad joined the Langat Singh College, in Muzaffarpur, as a professor. The position did not appeal to him, as it did not offer bright prospects. His family fortune was dwindling. His brother suggested him pursuing a legal career, which was considered more promising. Rajendra Prasad began preparing to enter the legal profession. He moved to Kolkata, continued legal studies and was apprenticed to a renowned lawyer. In 1910, Gopal Krishna Gokhale was searching for talents for the Servants of India Society. He met Rajendra Prasad at Kolkata and appealed to him to join the Society. Rajendra Prasad was interested but family responsibility was a major concern. He consulted his family members who opposed his joining the Society and he submitted to their wishes. In 1911 he started his legal practice in Kolkata. He rapidly rose in the profession and earned the good opinion of judges. He was offered the post of Professor of Law at the University, which he readily accepted. He obtained the degree of Master of Laws with the first division in 1915 and a Doctor of Laws two years later. Bihar was separated from Bengal in 1912. When a separate High Court was established at Patna in 1916, Rajendra Prasad shifted his practice to Patna. He became a leading advocate and had a lucrative legal practice. Freedom Fighter - He started taking greater interest in political activities and was drawn to the Indian National Congress. In 1906, he had worked as a volunteer at the Kolkata session
24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
of the Congress. He formally joined Congress in 1911 and was elected a Member of the All India Congress Committee. In the 1916 Lucknow session of Congress, Rajendra Prasad first met Mahatma Gandhi. At this session Raj Kumar Shukla, an Indigo farmer, had approached Gandhi with a request to visit Champaran and to help improve the condition of Indigo farmers. In 1917, Gandhi on his first trip to Champaran stopped en route at Rajendra Prasad’s residence in Patna. Rajendra Prasad joined Gandhi in Champaran and worked to support his Satyagrah, the first civil disobedience movement in India. Rajendra Prasad was highly impressed by Gandhi’s dedication, courage and conviction. He became his ardent follower. Although he was a pacifist but following the approach taken by Gandhi, Rajendra Prasad joined an official board for recruitment of men to the army in Bihar to fight in the First World War. During protests against Rowlatt Act in 1919, Rajendra Prasad took an active part in organising strikes in Patna. As stipulated by the Satyagrah Committee, the strike remained peaceful and free from violence. Carnage in Amritsar and repression of people throughout the country impelled Rajendra Prasad to devote his full energy to the movement led by Gandhi. In 1920 he retired from his wellpaid career of a lawyer and joined the non-cooperation movement full time. To create awareness of the national struggle among the public, he wrote for Searchlight, an English daily and later founded and edited the Hindi weekly Desh. In response to a call by Gandhi to boycott western educational establishments, Bihar Vidyapeeth was established in Patna and Rajendra Prasad was made the principal of the institution. During violent suppression
of the Independence movement, Rajendra Prasad carried on constructive works of national education, propagation of Khadi, removal of untouchability and promotion of Hindu-Muslim unity. He felt that the problems of hunger, poverty and ignorance could only be solved through constructive works. He toured the country, appealing to congress workers to focus on social issues. In 1928, Rajendra Prasad went to England in connection with an old case before the Privy Council in London. The case was settled early and during his spare time, he visited other European countries to familiarise himself with their political environments. During the Salt Satyagrah in 1930, Rajendra Prasad broke the law by selling illicit salt. Authorities assumed him to be truly non-violent and did not arrest him. Later, during the boycott of foreign clothes and liquor shops, he was arrested and sentenced to six month’s imprisonment. After the failure of the second round table conference, Rajendra Prasad along with other national leaders was arrested in January 1932, and was imprisoned for six months. During this time he was elected President of the Congress session to be held in Odisha. He was again arrested in January 1933 and sentenced to fifteen months’ imprisonment for attending the trial of a fellow freedom fighter, Kripalani. Around this time, he fell seriously ill with an asthma attack and became extremely weak. In January 1934, a catastrophic earthquake struck north Bihar. Rajendra Prasad was released from the prison. He visited affected areas and initiated the relief work. A Central Relief Committee was established under his Chairmanship. The Committee appealed for contributions in the form of money, food, clothes and medicines from across the country. The response was enormous. Six months after the earthquake, Rajendra Prasad faced a personal tragedy. His brother Mahendra Prasad, who supported him and his family, passed away. The family estate was in debt beyond available assets. A businessman named Jamnalal Bajaj monetarily assisted him in settling the debts. Rajendra Prasad noted that those were the darkest days of his life. Rajendra Prasad presided over the Mumbai Congress session of October 1934. He conducted the proceedings with firmness and impartiality. At one stage, he would not allow Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, a senior leader, to continue speaking on the same subject. Many organisational problems had arisen due to a ban on the party for over 30 months. They were dealt with during this session. Rajendra Prasad was the president of the Nagpur session of the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan in 1935. He had full faith in one language, Hindi, for the whole nation. He stipulated his preference for simple Hindi, which should adopt words from all Indian languages and dialects. Rajendra Prasad was appointed President of the Congress after Subhas Chandra Bose was forced to resign from his position of President during his second term. During the Second World
War, the colonial government declared India at war without consulting Indian leaders. Congress leaders were opposed to a unilateral announcement. Rajendra Prasad and Jawahar Lal Nehru met the Viceroy and demanded commitment to grant independence after the war. The Viceroy would not agree. During the August 1942 Quit India Campaign, Rajendra Prasad was taken into custody at Patna. Thousands of people were killed. Hundreds of thousand were arrested, tortured and fined. Rajendra Prasad was under treatment of an Ayurvedic Vaidya before his arrest. In prison, he submitted to Allopathic treatment. He helped other prisoners in the jail. He drafted mercy pleas for those sentenced to death. In 1944, a malaria epidemic broke out. He was released from prison to organise relief work for infected people. He completed his autobiography in Hindi after his release from jail. The Nagari Pracharini Sabha declared it the best autobiography in Hindi. In September 1946, Rajendra Prasad became the minister for Food and Agriculture in the Interim Ministry. He worked effectively to address numerous issues under prevalent political conditions. President of India - On 9 December 1946, a Constituent Assembly was formed to frame the Constitution of India. Dr Rajendra Prasad was unanimously elected its President. As President of the Assembly, Rajendra Prasad maintained a neutral attitude beyond the limits of parties. The Constitution came into force on 26th January 1950. The Constituent Assembly unanimously nominated Rajendra Prasad the interim President of the Indian Republic. He was elected President in 1952 and re-elected in 1957. When he assumed the office as President, he felt his salary, fixed by the Constitution, was too high. He imposed a series of voluntary cuts. He was freely accessible to all who wished to see him. During his tenure, the Mughal Gardens at the Rashtrapati Bhawan were open to public for about a month. He acted independent of politics as the position of the President required. He was a firm vegetarian and had never consumed liquor. He was a religious person. During his visit to holy places he bathed in rivers like a common man. He participated in the inauguration ceremony of the reconstructed Somnath temple in 1951. As President, he promoted Indian traditions and culture during official visits to many countries, including Nepal, Japan, Cambodia, Ceylon, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam. In 1962, after serving as President for twelve years, he announced his decision to retire. He returned to Patna in May 1962 after relinquishing the office of President and preferred to stay at Bihar Vidyapeeth. His wife died in September 1962. He died on 28 February 1963. The government of India honoured him with Bharat Ratna the highest civilian award. Lovingly Indian people called him Deshratna, the Jewel of the Country. —Awadhesh Sharma, web: hinduguru.com.au
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Know the four types of knowledge The content of this article is taken from the teachings of H.H. Sant Shri Asharam ji Bapu. Pujya Bapu ji had addressed the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in September 1993, that was 100 years after Swami Vivekananda addressed the same parliament in September 1893. To save the youth who are being ruined due to the
lustful festivals like valentine’s day, in 2007 Pujya Bapu jiinitiated celebrations of MatriPitri Pujan Diwas (Parents worship day) on 14th February. Pujya Bapu ji felt that, due to the blind imitation of Western culture there has been a steep rise in the incidences of alcoholism, suicide, and other immoral activities, especially among the youth during the
26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
last week of December. To rescue the youth from this debauchery and denigration, Pujya Bapu ji came up with the idea of worshipping a sacred Tulsi plant (holy basil). So, with a view to awaken the cultural pride of the India and to save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2014, he initiated celebration of Tulsi poojan on 25th December. Talking about the four types of knowledge, pujya Bapu ji says that there are four types of knowledge. (1) Pratyaksha (2) Paroksha (3) Aparoksha (4) Sakshat Aparoksha. 'Pratyaksha' means something that is experienced or known by sense-object contact. Something that is Apratyaksha, means something that cannot be experienced by the senses at present but established in
other ways, is called Paroksha, like a distant invisible place. thing or other worlds like heaven, etc. The eye is needed for seeing the rising sun or a luminous light bulb. The sun or bulb cannot be seen in the absence of an eye. The mind is needed for seeing the eye. If the mind is asleep, the eye cannot be perceived. Intellect Is needed for seeing the mind. It is only with intellect that we know, "Yes, my eyes are seeing, and my mind is thinking well. "When the mind says, 'It is a stump', the intellect will decide whether it is a stump or a thief. But the feeling of pleasure and pain arising in the mind and intellect, passions like lust and anger and the states like waking. dream and sleep are neither Pratyaksha (experienced by the senses) nor Paroksha (established by other means) but Aparoksha (directly experienced). Mental feelings, passion, states and intellectual experiences and the senses of knowledge, etc ., are neither Pratyaksha (experienced by the senses) nor Paroksha (established by other means) like heaven, hell, Vaikuntha, etc ., but these are experienced within, by the mind and intellect. So, they are called Aparoksha. The Self or Atman is needed for seeing the mind and intellect. We don't need the light of the sun of moon, or the eye or other senses, or the mind or intellect, or anything else to know our own selves, our "I''. And our "I does not come and go, the way pleasure and pain, lust and anger, and the three states- waking, dream and sleep come and go. So, our Self is Sakshat Aparoksha (a direct personal experience). To know this Sakshat Aparoksha as our "I is called Self-realisation. Something that is aparoksha, but lasts only as long the vritti (mental modification) lasts like anger - is called aparoksha': but that, which remains as the witness of the absence of vritti after the vritti has gone, is called the sakshat aparoksha That is our Atma, it is our Self and there is nothing that restricts the aAtma, and therefore, we are the Brahman. America is Paroksha for us at present, but if we go there it will become Pratyaksha. Thus, worldly things become Pratyaksha and Paroksha (at different times), experiences based on Vrittis are Aparoksha, but our Self is Sakshat Aparoksha. Worldly things are obtained and separated from us, experiences of the mind and intellect change, but our Self is never separated from us. It is ever-attained; nor does it change, it remains changeless forever. Though our Self is ever-present, Sakshat Aparoksha, it is covered by the veil of ignorance. When the veil is removed it seems that we have attained It. but actually It was never different from us. When we attain an
unattained thing, it is called the attainment of that thing. The thing that is already attained but seems to be different from what it is, it is called delusion of that thing. A woman was grinding corn on a hand -mill. The locket of the garland worn around her neck turned onto her back while grinding the corn. She did not notice it. After the grinding was over, she started to search for her garland. She examined her treasury and bags but did not find it. Meanwhile, a wise old woman arrived there. She was informed of the problem by the other woman. She noticed that the garland was around her neck, but the locket was on her back. The old woman brought the locket to her front and said, "Here is your garland.” The old woman did not bring the garland from anywhere else. It was not lost. Only she had a delusion of losing it. When the old woman showed the garland, the searching woman attained the ever-attained garland, not the unattained garland. Vedanta philosophy does not believe in the attainment of God. Nobody attains God, Brahman but it seems that it is attained. And to whom does it seem that it is attained? To the one who has not attained, it seems that so and so person has attained. But the one who is Self-realised does not think that he has attained anything. "A person who says that he has lost something, he is foolish; and one, who says that he has gained something, is also not telling a real truth. In fact, nothing has been lost or gained, the fundamental whole (Existence) stands completely full .” Where is the Supreme Self; How to attain Him? One who attains the Supreme Self does not know that 'I have attained'. It may be asked: "Maharaj, doesn't even the one who has attained come to know of it?" One who has attained the Supreme Self perfectly will not say, 'I have attained". What can be attained? One that has been separated could be attained. But how can anybody be separated from his own Self? So, it can't be said that I have attained because the Supreme Self is ever attained. We can also have realisation of the Supreme Self if we hear, reflect and constantly meditate on the satsang delivered by Self-realised great men, and get settled in that. And this is not a difficult job but it seems difficult to cast aside the vijatiya samskaras, i.e ., impressions other than those of Brahman. How to remove the Vijatiya Samskaras? One way to remove the vijatiya samskaras is this. Suppose you have a jug filled with water and you want to fill it with milk without emptying it of water. Keep pouring milk into it. Milk and water will
both spill out of the jug in the beginning, but a time will come when there will be pure milk in the jug. That means keep visiting the great men. Keep doing meditation, Japa, hearing of satsang, chanting, etc. The vijatiya samskaras will get removed gradually and your interest in the attainment of the Supreme Self will keep growing. The other way is to empty the jug completely and fill it with milk. This means your dispassion is awakened and you renounce house, shop, sons, family and everything and seek refuge in a Selfrealised great man. Empty your mind completely of all the vijatiya samskaras. The impressions of worldly knowledge are washed out, and then fill your mind with the samskaras of Knowledge imparted by the great man and you will attain Self-knowledge. That means it is not difficult to attain Self-knowledge or Self-realisation if we do not instil the vijatiya samskaras in our mind. This was the reason behind the attainment of Self-realisation in seven days by King Parikshit; when he was cursed to meet death within seven days, he emptied his mind of worldly samskaras and sat at the lotus feet of Shukdevji Maharaj. Other people were also sitting with him to hear satsang discourses, but they did not attain the perfect knowledge, whereas Parikshit attained it. Because all other people were sitting with the jugs of their minds filled with vijatiya samskaras whereas Parikshit had emptied it completely. In the same way King Khatwanga attained Self-knowledge within a muhurta (a period of 48 minutes). King Janak attained Self-knowledge while placing his foot on the stirrup of a horse. Thus, the sooner one removes the vijatiya samskaras, the quicker one attains Self-knowledge. This too is just for saying that you will attain the Knowledge of Brahman. Actually, one doesn’t attain Knowledge of Brahman. Knowledge of Truth itself is Brahman. To listen 24X7 live divine Satsang of Pujya Bapu Ji, please search “Mangalmay live” on google, visit http://www. ashram.org/live or search “THE SBM STUDIO” on you Tube. By the Divine Inspiration of Bapu ji, the weekly sessions of Bal Sanskar and yoga are held in Brisbane. To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu Ji, please watch this video. https://bit.ly/2uZvJuN To get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine Rishi-Prasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail.com or by WhatsApp/phone to Ashok Attri and Anu Attri at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802. Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of The Brisbane Indian Times.
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Who, What, Where, When...
Binoy Ittyavira Ellappunkal, his wife REENU SUSAN SUNNY, and their son RYAN BINOY acquired Australian citizenship at a ceremony presided by Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner at Brisbane City Hall on 09th May 2022, over 500 new citizens were welcomed on the night. Binoy and Reenus’s daughter, Rebekha Ann Binoy is a citizen by birth. Binoy was the representative speaker for all new Citizens on the night.
Right Honorable Lord Mayor Councilor Adrian Schrinner as the presiding officer at the citizenship ceremony
Congratulations to the new citizens
All ranks on board at Gold Mirror room pre-ceremony reception ready to welcome the new citizens
All smiles at Lord Mayors Iftaar dinner at Sunpac function Centre , the dinner was organized via Councilor Kim Marx
Invited guests enjoy the sumptuous dinner at Brisbane City Councils iftar dinner
One of the recipients of 2022 internship to be placed with Populus via the business mentoring program
Pushpinder Oberoi receives 2022 Northern Gold Coast Volunteer Award by federal Minister for small business Hon Stuart Robert MP for his outstanding services
Welcome to the country by Tribal experiences at the Refugees welcome ceremony held at Brisbane City Hall 28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
Locals in support of Trevor Evans MP at his campaign launch
Invited guests at the refugees welcome ceremony
Who, What, Where, When...
Good to see youngsters start of the cultural performances at Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan ‘s Bharatiya Navwarsh
Dressing of all states – colors of India displayed at DJJ Navwarsh Mela
Community support for Steven Huang at his campaign dinner
Steven Huang LNP candidate for Moreton, Paul Scarr Senator for Queensland, and Jason Wood Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs at a dinner function
Brisbane Lions hosted many community organizations working in Family and Domestic violence spaces at a corporate box
Umesh Chandra OAM, Carolyn Robinson, Minister Shannon Fentiman, and Tim Class-Auliff stand as guard of honor at the Brisbane Lions match on Saturday 7th May
GOPIO Queensland members with Robert Mukombozi at Minister Alex Hawkes Dinner function held at emporium Hotel
Annastacia Palaszczuk , Queensland Premier with Usha Chandra and Umesh Chandra OAM at the Queensland Flood fundraiser
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Arya Samaj Queensland
Teachings of Vedas
Jitendra Deo President ASQ
Some important points to consider when we talk about progress. Here is some them. • A patient, inquisitive
individual who leads a life of truthfulness is the one who can progress further on the path of Yog. • For spiritual progress, one has to minutely scan one’s beliefs and opinions and has to dissect and filter them with the help of logic and evidence. Only then will the wrong beliefs be attenuated and the right ones be strengthened. • An individual becomes worthy once the mind has progressed from the concrete to the abstract or from the extensive to the intensive; when the person has upgraded from
indifferent behaviour – the “who cares” attitude – to supreme conduct and when one has made appropriate progress in knowledge, action and prayer. • Those who always focus on their end – death, the last moment of this valuable life – are able to think faster, work faster. Consequently, they are able to progress faster towards their destined goal. • Keeping oneself engaged in tasks of excellence, concentrating on a predecided goal and making constant effort to achieve it are some measures to keep
the mind free of immoral or inappropriate thoughts of passion etc. • We keep rising and falling all day long. False knowledge, wrong actions, incorrect forms of devotion and prayer – these are the things that lead to downfall; true knowledge, right types of efforts and devotion in the right direction are factors that raise a person to great heights. A spiritual traveler always remembers this fact, remains cautious and keeps improving himself. On continuing this practice for a long time, it gets firmer and stronger.
• To be successful in life, one needs to observe extreme caution. Questions like – What should I see, What shouldn’t I see, What should I hear, What shouldn’t I hear, What should I know, What I shouldn’t know, What should I do, What shouldn’t I do – are of paramount importance. • Strange incidents keep occurring from time to time but the practitioner of Yog always keeps an eye on what effect those incidents are exerting on him and whether they are snubbing his target of salvation or augmenting it. In case a bad effect does
manage to creep in, he successfully and quickly wards it off. Until the point of attaining the highest spiritual level, it is vital to remain under the supervision of elders and to abide by the instructions of teachers. Only then is progress possible, otherwise downfall is certain. Please contact President: Jitendra Deo 3273 3029 or Secretary: Sunil Dutt 5613 3410 for information on activities of Arya Samaj Queensland or log on: www. aryasamajqueensland.org/ Facebook Arya Samaj Qld
CELEBRATING GIRMIT DAY -14 MAY A SALUTE TO PROFESSOR BRIJ LAL – THE MOST CELEBRATED GIRMITIYA SON
Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT
So much has been written about Professor Brij Lal since his untimely death on Christmas Day in 2021, that any more writing will be a repetition of what has been said. FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ was blessed with the presence of Professor and his good wife Dr Padma Lal in 2014, when they were our Chief Guest in Auckland. Many of us have fond memories and memorable photos. And he said many profound things and enlightened us, as he had already done to Fiji Girmitiya Diaspora and the international community. He was the one who blessed us and helped put up ‘GIRMITIYA” as a legitimate historical vocabulary. Apart from being the Chief Gust in 2014, during the 140TH GIRMIT Anniversary in Auckland in 2019, he was awarded FIJI GIRMIT LEGACY AWARD in Literature. We had intended to hand it over to him as the Chief Guest again on our 10th anniversary in May, 2022. Time goes, you say. Ah no, alas, time stays, we go. Professor was snatched from us untimely in the biggest loss our Girmit Diaspora has suffered after passing away of Pundit Totaram Sanadhya. Professor Brij Lal passed away on Christmas Day in Brisbane in 2021 and is survived by his wife, Padma, two children – Niraj and Yogi – and five grandchildren. Unlike many Girmitiya descendants who are rich and have done well in the community, there was one thing the late Professor Brij Lal
took great pride in - it was his humble beginnings in the little sugarcane settlement of Tabia outside Labasa Town on Vanua Levu Island of Fiji. Professor Lal Brij Lal was born on August 21, 1952, in Tabia, Labasa, the grandson of a Girmitiya or indentured labourer who arrived in Fiji in 1908. who was among the 60,000 labourers to make the crossing from India to Fiji under the most wretched conditions between 1879 and 1916. Aja, as he called his paternal grandfather, had him at his feet, he was told of the stories of the backbreaking work in the plantations, starting at the first light of day and the extreme violence – often at the hands of cruel overseers desperate to command the favour of their European masters. In his highly recommended ‘Mr. Tulsi’s Store: A Fijian Journey’, in the first chapter titled ‘Tabia’ Brij proudly introduces his Girmit background and the community he was brought up in. Brij Vilash Lal was emeritus professor of Pacific and Asian History at the Australian National University until his retirement. he received his tertiary education at the University of the South Pacific, the University of British Columbia and the Australian National University, and later taught history at the University of the South Pacific, the University of Papua New Guinea, the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the Australian National University. As stated, Aucklanders were blessed by the noble feet and presence of professor, thanks to FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ. Some philosophical and reflective things he said need to be repeated here: One of my life’s ambitions 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
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Professor Brij Lal delivering his lecture in Auckland IN 2014 as Chief Guest at FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ Girmit Day.
Professor Brij Lal (right) with the author of this article, Thakur Ranjit Singh in Auckland.
Professor Brij Lal (right) with Pundit Devakar Prasad, the founding Trustee and President of FIJI GIRMIT FOUNDATION NZ in Auckland during Girmit Day in 2014. Both of them are deceased now.
During Girmit Day in Auckland in 2014 L-R: Dr. Padma Lal, Professor Brij Lal, Author of this article, Thakur Ranjit Singh and his wife Shashi Shankar Singh.
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. We reminiscence and have nostalgic memories of those profound lessons imparted to us by the greatest Girmit Historian who left an everlasting legacy for the coming generations. Perhaps after Mahatma Gandhi, a feeble person who evoked great fear among the might of British Empire, Professor Brij Lal was such a comparison in Fiji.
A person, barely 5 feet and 60kg, with failing eyesight and greying hair, armed merely with a pen and a brilliant mind, evoked fear among the leadership in Fiji, with thousands in its Military with deadly weapons. The fear for the Fiji First government was so great that he, together with his wife, were banned from Fiji. The fear was so immense, that even, as per his last wishes, his ashes were denied entry to Fiji. For a small person whose ashes aroused such fears in the Fiji regime, itself speaks volumes for his huge stature. It is only hoped Karma hits those blinkered leadership in
Fiji, which may be blessed with new visionary leader after the general elections, who would allow his last wishes for his ashes to be brought to his beloved Tabia. So long Professor, hope God does not stop incarnating future proud sons like you. [About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a founding Trustee of Fiji Girmit Foundation NZ which had hosted Professor Lal in Auckland in 2014 Girmit Day. Thakur is a media commentator, a journalist and publisher of blog FIJI PUNDIT, based in Auckland. E-mail: thakurjifj@gmail.com]
Call: (07) 3192 5188
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The Importance of the Month of Shawwal By Ml. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi Shawwal is the tenth month of the lunar year, after Ramadan and just before Dhul Qadah. It is also known as ‘the month of ‘feast(eid).” The word “Shawwal,” which derives from the root of Shawl, has a variety of definitions such as ‘lifting,” “water remaining at the bottom of the bucket,” “old age.” The reasons why the name Shawwal was given to the tenth month during Jahiliyyah are explained as follows: While the Arabs were changing the old names of the lunar months, this month was so named due to either the decrease of the camels’ milk or increase in temperatures during the summer. During Jahiliyyah, the Arabs considered the month of Shawwal cursed and would not marry during this month.2 They believed that unrest would occur among spouses who got married this month, and therefore the marriages would not continue. Prophet Muhammad (S) to change this belief in a curse, married Aisha and Umm Salama (radialhuhu anhuma) within the month of Shawwal. Aisha (ra) would proudly narrate that she married the Prophet in Shawwal, and recommend the women around her to
conduct their marriages in Shawwal. Following Ramadan, the month of Shawwal is a blessed month of which the first three days are celebrated as Eid al-Fitr. Prophet Muhammad (S) referring to the Ramadan and Shawwal crescents, reported: “Do not fast until you see the new moon; and do not eat until you see the (next) new moon. Should clouds interfere (with your sight), estimate the month.” At the sight of a new moon, Prophet Muhammad would supplicate as follows: “Allah is the greatest. O Allah, let the crescent loom above us in safety, faith, peace, and Islam, and in agreement with all that You love and pleases You. Our Lord and your Lord is Allah.” Prophet Muhammad (S) has forbidden fasting on the first day of the month of Shawwal, the first day of Eid -ul Fitr. Fasting for six days in the month of Shawwal after the Eid is an important sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (S). The Messenger of Allah (S) gave the good tidings that anyone who fasted in Shawwal for six days in this following hadith: Whoever fasts during the month of Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal will
be (rewarded) as if he had fasted the entire year Bulugh al-Maram, Fasting, 1164 Prophet Muhammad (peace upon him) completed his (itikaf) social seclusion during the month of Shawwl whenever He (S) could not complete it within Ramadan. Shawwal is also the first of the pilgrimage months. The Qur’an mentions “the season of pilgrimage” through this verse Hajj is [during] wellknown months.” Prophet Muhammad clarified the expression “well-known months” as the first ten days of Shawwal, Dhul
Qadah and Dhul Hijjah. These are the last three months of the Hijri( Islamic calendar) year. The pilgrimage is performed only during this time and it is an indication of how blessed and significant this time period is.
Some of the important events that occurred in the month of Shawwal during the life of Prophet Muhammad (S) are as follows: • Return of first immigrants from Abyssinia to Mecca (5th Year of Prophecy) • Siege of Taif: (A few
nights or three nights before the end of Shawwal10th year of Prophecy ) • Marriage of the Messenger of Allah (S) and Aisha (raduyallâhu anha) (1st Year of the Migration) • Death of Hazrat alAsad Ibn Zurara (1st Year of the Migration) • The Construction of the Masjid Al-Nabawi and the House of Prophet (S) (1st Year of the Migration) • Expedition of Ubaydah ibn al-Harith (1st Year of the Migration) • First Eid ul Adha (2 years after Migration) • Al-Kharrar expedition • Expedition of Ghalib ibn Abdullah al-Laithi
(Mayfah) ( 10th Shawwal/ 2 years after Migration) • Expelling Banu Qaynuka from Medina ( Shawwal 15- Zilkada 1/ 2 years after Migration) • The Battle of Uhud ( 7th or 11th Shawwal/ 3 years after Migration) • The Battle of Hamraulesed ( 3 years after Migration) • Marriage of Prophet (S) with Hadhrat Umme Salamah (R.A.)( 4 years after Migration) • Expedition of Abdullah ibn Rawaha (6 years after Migration) • Expedition of Bashir Ibn Sa’d al-Ansari (Fadak) (7 years after Migration) • Marriage of Abu Bakr with Asmâ Bint-i Umeys (8 years after Migration) • Expedition of Khalid ibn al-Walid (Banu Jadhimah) to invite them to Islam (8 years after Migration) • Battle of Hunayn (8 years after Migration) • Siege of Ta’if (8 years after the Migration) • The Arrival of Committee from Banu alHarith to Mecca ( 10 years after Hijrah) • The Arrival of Committee from Banu Salaman to Mecca (10 years after Hijrah)
THE HAJJ, THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME……AT A GLANCE Unity is vividly observed in the great pillar of Hajj, which is repeated every year and for which millions of Muslims gather from all over the world. They represent the Muslim ummah with all its different races, countries, colors, and languages. They gather in one place, at the same time, wearing the same garment and performing the same rites. They make one stand in the same monument. They proclaim the oneness of the Lord of the worlds, submit themselves to His law, and show their unity under His banner. They announce to the whole world that they are one nation although they come from different countries and homes. They perform the rites and stand in the open areas of Makkah, where bodies become close to each other, faces meet, hands shake, greetings exchange, tongues communicate, and hearts reconcile. They meet for the same purpose and intention. What unity is deeper than that one of the pilgrims when they stand at the mountain of 'Arafat with bare heads
and simple white clothes? There is no difference between the rich and the poor, the ruler and the subject, men and women, Arabs and non-Arabs. All of them are the same, like the teeth of the hair comb. They direct themselves towards Allah, humble and submissive. "They hope for His Mercy and fear His Wrath" [Al-Isra', 17:57] This is their description when they make tawaf (circumambulation around the Ka'bah) and sa'y (going between the mountains of As-Safa and Al-Marwah), stay overnight at Muzdalifah and Mina, sacrifice animals, and throw stones. Similarly, this is their description when they perform the congregational prayer at the open areas or at the Holy Mosque. They pray behind one man (i.e. the imam) and supplicate to one God (i.e. Allah). They read one Book, the Qur'an, and direct themselves to one Qiblah, the Ka'bah, at the Holy Mosque. They perform the same rites of standing, sitting, bowing down, and prostration. It is a kind of unity that
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penetrates the hearts, and not only external appearances. This is unity in aim and direction, in sayings and deeds, an internal and external unity, through which they could feel the essence of the verse: "The believers are but a single brotherhood." [AlHujurat, 49:10]. Differences in social class, wealth, race, and color vanish within these feelings and rites. A pure and solemn atmosphere of brotherhood, serenity, affection, and love
prevails. In a world engulfed in dispute and division, it is a great blessing for a person to have the ability to enjoy this atmosphere of complete peace. In a world where discrepancy is the prevailing system, they (pilgrims) enjoy an atmosphere of equality. In the face of the world's grudges, hatred, and disputation-feelings all too characteristics of the modern life-pilgrims experience a feeling of love and harmony. Allah has imposed
pilgrimage upon Muslims in a specific time each year, in one place, and in the same manner. Thus, they perform it in gatherings and not in scattered groups. They feel and see unity and brotherhood before their very eyes. Allah made their Hajj in the purest point, in the most sacred place, and in the best days, namely, the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah. Accordingly, they experience the sacredness of the place, time, and situation. Hence,
they know their position among other nations and feel Allah's blessing, as He granted them this straight and sound religion. He favored Muslims by bringing familiarity among their hearts and making them loving brothers and sisters. Hajj is a valuable opportunity for the public to meet the righteous scholars, so that they would benefit from their knowledge and be guided by their juristic opinions. It is also an occasion for Muslim scholars to meet with each other, so that they would know each other, discuss issues of theology, acquire jurisprudence in religion, and study the affairs of Muslims and provide solutions to their problems. It is a great chance for Muslim leaders, thinkers, and politicians to meet, to consult and to cooperate for the welfare of Islam and Muslims. Hajj is, indeed, the symbol of unity and monotheism! Praise be to Allah who has guided us to this. Never could we have found guidance, had it not been for the guidance of Allah. CONTD. ON PG 33
CONTD. FROM PG 32 HAJJ, one of the five pillars of Islam, is obligatory on every adult Muslim once in his lifetime if he is financially and physically capable to undertake the journey. Allah (God in Arabic language) said in the Qur’an (God’s final revelation to mankind through Prophet MuhammadS): And pilgrimage to the house is duty upon mankind owed to Allah for whoever can find a way there (Qur’an 3:97) Hajj rituals commemorate the events that took place during the time of Ibrahim (Abraham), one of the prophets of Allah. Ibrahim perfected his faith in Allah and showed complete reliance on God during the many trials and tribulations in his life. His life is worth reading
about before going for Hajj or if you simply want to understand Hajj better. When Muslims perform Hajj, they are reminded of his powerful legacy which recharges their commitment to the religion and thus helps them attain pure faith in God. The fact that Hajj has been going on every year for thousands of years of human history shows that it has to be divinely legislated. Human beings are incapable of starting such a movement. Many of us who go for Hajj focus a lot in learning the rituals, and of course we must. However, preparing the heart for the pilgrimage should not be any less important. We must prepare our heart to attain the purpose of Hajj. Therefore, let’s look at the inner dimensions of Hajj, spiritual aspects that the pilgrimage reminds us of:
Faith in God and that He is Only One This is called tawheed in Arabic. This is the heart of our belief. The moment pilgrims enter ihraam (ritual state to perform hajj), they start proclaiming the Talbiyah. Repeating the Talbiyah makes the heart firm on the fact that Allah is one and that there is no partner besides Him. He, our Creator, is sufficient for us and He alone is in control of everything. While repeating it, let’s remember what the proclamation indicates: the obligation to worship Allah alone and keep far away from Shirk(worshiping others along with Allah). Since Allah is Alone in His favours and His giving, having no partners, then likewise He is Alone in His Tawheed, not having any equal. [1]
Obedience to Allah and His Messenger S No ibaadah (worship) is valid unless it coincides with the commands of Allah and the MessengerS. Hajj is a worship prescribed by Allah on mankind so we listen and obey. The ultimate purpose behind every worship is obedience to Allah. And Hajj is a manifestation of obedience to Allah and His MessengerS.
also abstain from what is normally permissible outside Hajj. The result of this piety is that they return with their good deeds accepted and blessed to a new life full of Emaan and Taqwa, full of goodness and steadfastness, beautified with an eagerness to be obedient to Allah.
Hereafter Anything that reminds one of the Hereafter, the Judgement Day, is of tremendous benefit because the goal is to succeed there. And Hajj is an excellent reminder of the Hereafter. The two pieces of white cloth that pilgrims wear to embark on the journey leaving behind all their worldly possessions reminds them of death and their final journey to Allah. When pilgrims gather and stand in Arafah, they
Piety Taqwa is translated as piety in English. Piety is the fruit of obedience and is also a purpose in itself. Piety is again to enjoin what Allah and the Prophet So ordered to enjoin and to abstain from what they asked us to abstain from. In Hajj, Muslims practice piety from the time they decide to enter the state of performing the pilgrimage. The pilgrims
are reminded of how all human beings will stand on the Day of Judgment before Allah and be accounted for their deeds. Pilgrims pray and seek forgiveness at Arafah and return back hoping their sins are forgiven and that they will change for the better.
Honoring the symbols of Allah Whatever Almighty God has deemed sacred is sacred. The things and places that Allah has deemed sacred are the symbols of Allah. During Hajj, pilgrims honor, exalt and love the symbols of Allah and what He deems is sacred. Allah says (what means): “...And whoever honors the Symbols of Allah indeed, it is from the piety of hearts.” [Qur’an, 22: 32]
Muslim unity Hajj is a beautiful scene of the unity of all believers regardless of their classes, backgrounds, cultures, or languages. It’s a scene worth watching and feeling. Muslims from around the world, rich and poor, stand as one community wearing two pieces of white cloth, manifesting the fact that Allah only sees what is in the hearts. No one is higher in status in front of God except by virtue of good deeds. Hajj unites the hearts and gathers them to obey Allah, be sincere to Him, follow His
Shariah, and abide by His commands and prohibitions. This is why Allah says (translated): “Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for mankind was that at Bakkah (Makkah), full of blessing, and a guidance for the ‘Alamîn (mankind and jinn).” [Qur’an, 3:96] [4]
Patience and certainty in Allah Hajj teaches us patience and having trust in Allah, especially during its rituals like the Sa’i. It reminds us
of the trials of Hajar, wife of Ibrahim A.S. It reminds us of her patience and certainty in obeying Allah’s commands. She was commanded to stay with her baby in a desert without food and water. People without faith would consider it an unimaginable thing to do. However, she was certain that if this was Allah’s command, He would take care of her. Allah honored her and her baby with the miracle of Zamzam water in the midst of the desert, which till today continues to quench the thirst
of millions of people. This is just one example. Hajj is no doubt a difficult journey and it used to more difficult in the past. Muslims must practice patience and have certainty in Allah for all their affairs. This will benefit them in life after Hajj.
Connecting with the past Hajj brings to mind the migration of Ibrahim (AS) as well as the divine command to put his son for sacrifice. When Ibrahim (AS) showed full obedience and was ready
to sacrifice, Allah sent a ram from paradise to be sacrificed instead of his son Isma’eel – the purpose was to test Ibrahim’s faith, and indeed the prophets are tested the most. So beloved to Allah was Ibrahim’s piety that He honored Ibrahim with an incredible status – a role model for prophets and people to follow until the Day of Judgment. Hajj is a commemoration of Ibrahim’s outstanding acts of obedience and the pilgrimage will continue until the Last Day. Hajj also reminds us of how
Ibrahim and his son Isma’eel built the Ka’bah and Ibrahim’s call to people to perform Hajj. Little did they know that the building God was asking them to build in an uninhabited land was to become the main house of God’s worship for the entire earth. Hajj also revives the memory of Hajjatul-Wada‘ (the farewell pilgrimage)of the last and final prophet, Muhammad ﷺwho left his followers with advice that will keep them guided on the straight path until the end of time.
TEN AMAZING FACTS ABOUT THE KAABA There is no place on Earth as venerated, as central or as holy to as many people as Makkah. By any objective standard, this valley in the Hijaz region of Arabia is the most celebrated place on Earth. Thousands circle the sacred Kaaba at the centre of the Haram sanctuary 24 hours a day. Millions of homes are adorned with pictures of it and over a billion face it five times a day.
The Kaaba is the epicenter of Mecca. The cube shaped building is at the heart of the most well-known real estate in the history of mankind; it is shrouded in black and its fair share of mystery. Here are just a few things that most people may not know about the Kaaba: It has been reconstructed several timesgreats. The Kaaba that we see today is not exactly the same Kaaba that was constructed by Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail From time to time, it has needed rebuilding after natural and man-made disasters. Of course, we all know Call: (07) 3192 5188
key keepers of the Kaaba for centuries; and the Prophet confirmed them in that role till the end of time by these words “Take it, O Bani Talha, eternally up to the Day of Resurrection, and it will not be taken from you unless by an unjust, oppressive tyrant.” Whether Caliph, Sultan or King – the most powerful men in the world have all had to bow to the words of the Prophet and ask permission from this small Makkan family before they can enter the Kaaba.
of the major reconstruction that took place during the life of the Prophet before he became a Prophet . This is the occasion when the Prophet averted major bloodshed by his quick thinking on how to place the Black Stone using a cloth that every tribe could lift up. Since then, there has been an average of one major reconstruction every few centuries. The last renovation took place in 1996 and was extremely thorough, leading to the replacement of many of the stones and re-strengthening
the foundations and a new roof. This is likely to be the last reconstruction for many centuries (inshaAllah) as modern techniques mean that the building is more secure and stable than ever before.
It used to have two doors … and a window The original Kaaba used to have a door for entrance and another for exit. For a considerable period of time it also had a window situated to one side. The current Kaaba only has one door and
no window.
It used to be multicoloured We are so used to the Kaaba being covered in the trademark black Kiswah with gold banding that we can’t imagine it being any other colour. However, this tradition seems to have started at the time of the Abbasids (whose household colour was black) and before this the Kaaba was covered in multiple colours including green, red and even white. The keys are in the
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hands of one family At the time of the Prophet , each aspect to do with the rites of Hajj was in the hands of different sub-groups of the Quraish. Every one of these would eventually lose control of their guardianship of a particular rite except one. On the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet was given the keys to the Kaaba and instead of keeping it in his own possession; he returned them back to the Osman ibn Talha ® of the Bani Shaiba family. They had been the traditional
It used to be open to everyone Until recently, the Kaaba was opened twice a week for anyone to enter and pray. However, due to the rapid expansion in the number of pilgrims and other factors, the Kaaba is now opened only twice a year for dignitaries and exclusive guests only. Watch the video attached here to witness the doors of the Kaaba being opened (at 50 seconds) – and the simultaneous gasps of a Million people as they cry out at this auspicious moment.
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 33
Fasting in My Religion – An Interfaith exchange of thoughts on FASTING
By Ahmadiyya Muslim community, Brisbane Mubarak Mosque, 456 Old Cleveland Road, Camp Hill The Ahmadiyya Muslim community was founded in 1889 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) of Qadian, India. He claimed to be the expected reformer of the latter days and the awaited one of the world’s religions (the Messiah and Mahdi of the latter days). He claimed that he was commissioned by God
through divine revelation to revive the peaceful teachings of Islam and engender in people’s hearts the love of God and the duty to serve mankind. The community is now established in more than 206 countries and is committed to an international effort for promoting education and health across the developing world as well as a global peace campaign to champion absolute justice and human rights for all. The community is led by a system of Khilafat
(spiritual leadership). The current Khalifatul and fifth successor of the founder of our community is His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad who resides in the UK. The Fasting in My Religion is one of the flagship events of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community held around Australia, in an attempt to foster inter-faith harmony among religious groups by allowing them to highlight the beautiful teachings of FASTING in their respective
faith traditions The aim of such events is to achieve the larger goal of attaining peace in society by bringing people from faith traditions and diverse walks of life together and providing them a forum to exchange ideas and experiences on its attainment in today’s pluralistic society worldwide. The event not only brings people of faith together but also fosters deep bonds of mutual respect, understanding, and brotherhood.
Impressions: Harmony Week Program 2022 by Life Eternal Trust Australia Australia is a vibrant and multicultural country, and the Moreton Bay Region is one of the most culturally diverse regions, with one in every four residents born overseas, representing more than 180 nationalities and speaking more than 150 different languages. This year, Life Eternal Trust Australia [LETA], popularly known as Sahaja Yoga Meditation organised a public program on Sunday, 20th March from12noon to 5pm at the Sutton’s Beach, Redcliffe to celebrate cultural diversity, and promote LETA’s 30 years of contributions to sociocultural and economic life, encouraging social cohesion and inclusiveness within the Moreton Bay Region. The official segment of the program started from 2pm with Aunty Betty delivering a very insightful acknowledgement of country and Adjunct Professor Dr Sudipto Roy extending a warm welcome on behalf of LETA to all the participants, including the online participants who had tuned in from across Australia and other parts of the world. Sudipto shared the message from Leanne Linard MP [Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs] highlighting the significance of the program
and acknowledging LETA’s contribution to Queensland, Moreton Bay Region in particular. Councillor Sandra Ruck [Division 5 Moreton Bay Region], Councillor Steven Huang [The MacGregor Ward] and Brett Johnson [LETA National Coordinator] shared their wonderful messages of hope and harmony along with deep insights about the benefits of the program. The speeches were interspersed with live music and instrumental music performances. LETA’s music group Sahaj Sangeet captivated the audience with lively music, rhythmic hand movements and clapping. Coralie Jessop on Santoor with Rudrodipto Roy on tabla thrilled the audience while Rudrodipto’s Saxophone rendition Maroon 5’s “Memories” left the audience with an invigorating experience. In the last session, Leanne Lingard demonstrated simple meditation techniques followed by a soothing piece by Gaspar Hunt on piano to reduce stress, improve mental and physical health and wellbeing. Sudipto concluded the program with a vote of thanks, acknowledging Moreton Bay Regional Council for proudly supporting the event with generous funding, and
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invited the participants to join follow-up sessions and programs. The program raised public awareness about simple methods to reduce stress, improve mental and physical health and wellbeing, and promote the benefits of living a life in harmony with nature and culture. The integration of lively music from diverse cultural background further reinforced the value of cultural diversity, equality, and inclusiveness in our culturally diverse Moreton Bay region. Overall, the program was a living demonstration of inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, evidenced by the following testimonials “Good morning, Sudipto.
It was my absolute pleasure to attending your event on Sunday. I have this morning distributed your pamphlets and business cards and talked about the event with the other Councillors this morning. I am certainly
looking forward to your event in 2023.” Thank you everyone who contributed to the event yesterday and special thanks for Sudipto and Megha for organising it. I was impressed by councillors
and representative of Aboriginal people speeches and their connection to the spirit of the event. The connection between everyone participating in the event felt beautiful. Music was blissful.”
मर् ू ति पज ू ा और विज्ञान
दोस्तों आदिवासी कबीलों के बारे में प्रचलित है कि वे प्यार और नफ़रत दोनों को शिद्दत से निभाते हैं । जब वे किसी से नफ़रत करते हैं तो पीढ़ियों तक उस नफ़रत को निभाते हैं । उन्होने अपने दशु ्मन को मारने या फिर उसे लाइलाज बीमारी से झूझते रहने का अेक अनोखा तरीक़ा ढू ँ ढ निकाला था आदिवासी अपने दशु ्मन की मिट्टी की प्रतिमा बनाते हैं , फिर अपने दशु ्मन को शिद्धत कविता चाँदवानी से याद करते हैं , मानो उस मूर्ति में उन्हें उसकी छबि नजर आ रही हो। क्यों कि कोई भी इं सान किसी की हुबहू प्रतिमा नही बना सकता। कोई मूर्तिकार भी जब किसी की प्रतिमा बनाता है तो कही न कही कुछ कमी रह जाती है । तब एक साधारण व्यक्ति किसी की हुबहू मूर्ति तो बना ही नही सकता। वह उस मूर्ति में उस इं सान की छबि दे खते हुअे उसकी आँखों में आँखें डालकर अपनी पूरी ऊर्जा को उसे कोई बीमारी या फिर मृत्यु तक भेज सकते हैं । वह व्यक्ति उनसे हज़ारों मील की दरू ी पर ही क्यों न रहता हो।वह मृत्यु या फिर उस बीमारी का शिकार हो जाते। दोस्तों इस बात को सुनकर या फिर उनकी इस प्रतिक्रिया को दे खने के बाद भी कोई सभ्य समाज इस बात पर यक़ीन नही करे गा। डाक्टर fringe रिडालड तक जब यह बात पहुँची तो उसका वैज्ञानिक मन इस बात का पुष्टीकरण करने को व्याकुल हो उठा और वह अमेजान Amazon अमेरिका के क़बीले में जाकर रहने लगा। उसने अपने जीवन के तीस वर्ष वहाँ व्यतीत किये और उसने कई बार इस प्रतिक्रिया को अपने सामने होते हुअे दे खा और उसके अनुकूल परिणाम भी दे खे। उसका वैज्ञानिक मन फिर भी समझ नही पा रहा था कि अैसा कैसे हो सकता है ? दोस्तों उसने तब दो मील की दरू ी पर एक हरे भरे सौ वर्ष पुराने पेड को चिन्हित किया। उसकी मिट्टी की प्रतिमा बनाकर उस पेड को सूख जाने की बात कही, अब एक महिने तक उस पेड में खाद पानी सब कुछ व्यवस्थित डाला गया फिर भी धीरे धीरे वह पेड सूखने लगा। एक महिने में तो उसका मोटा तना तक सूख गया। वह पेड इस बुरी स्थिति में आ गया कि फिर से उसमें नये कपोल आने तक की सम्भावना नही रही।इस प्रतिक्रिया को दे खकर रिडालड को यह विश्वास तो हो गया कि यह प्रतिक्रिया कोरी कल्पना नही है , बल्कि अैसा हो सकता है ।
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अब वह उसमें वैज्ञानिक कारण खोजने लगा। उसे तीन कारण समझ में आये। पहिला यह कि जिस व्यक्ति को बीमारी या मौत भेजनी है उसकी मिट्टी की प्रतिमा बनाइये। दस ू रा मिट्टी की प्रतिमा की शक्ल भले ही उस व्यक्ति से ना भी मिले पर उस प्रतिमा में उस व्यक्ति की शक्ल को प्रतिष्ठित किया जा सके। अगर आँख बंद करके उस व्यक्ति की पूरी प्रतिमा को शिद्धत से याद करे और इस मिट्टी की प्रतिमा में आरोपित कर दे तो यह प्रतिमा उस व्यक्ति का प्रतीक बनकर सक्रिय हो जायेगी। तीसरा हर इं सान के दोनों आँखों के मध्य एक तीसरी आँख है , जो आज्ञा दे ने की शक्ती रखती है ।आँखों के मध्य का केन्द्र बहुत बड़ा ट्रांसमिशन केन्द्र है ।आप इसपर प्रयोग कर सकते हैं । आप अपने बेटे को कोई काम करने के लिये कहिये, वह मना कर दे ता है । अब आप अपनी दोनों आँखों के बीच ध्यान केंद्रित करके उसे किसी काम के लिये कहें गे तो वह तुरंत हामी भर दे गा। दस में से नौ बार वह आपकी हर आज्ञा का पालन करे गा। बिलकुल इसी वैज्ञानिक तथ्य के आधार पर उस मिट्टी की प्रतिमा की आँखों में आँखें डालकर आप अपने आँखों के मध्य को सक्रिय कर उस प्रतिमा को दे खे और किसी भी बीमारी का स्मरण करें सिर्फ एक मिनट के लिये तो वह व्यक्ति उस बीमारी से संक्रामित हो जायेगा ,चाहे वह आपसे मीलों दरू क्यों ना हो।उसकी मृत्यु तक हो सकती है । मूर्ति पूजा भी इस प्रतिक्रिया का विराट आयाम है ।जब हम मीलों दरू बैठे व्यक्ति को बीमारी भेज सकते हैं तो कोई कारण नही है कि इस जगत में जो विराट व्याप्ति है हम उससे समपर्क स्थापित ना कर सकें।मूर्ति पूजा का आधार यही है कि आपके मस्तक और विराट के मस्तक में सम्बंध है । सभी धर्म मानते हैं कि मालिक निराकार है , पर हमारी आँखें तो साकार को , आक्रतियों को पहिचानती हैं । हम से कोई कहे कि निराकार का ध्यान करो तो हमारा ध्यान भटकने लगेगा।हमारे लिये ध्यान लगाना कठिन ही नही असम्भव हो जायेगा। मूर्ति एक सेतु का, ब्रिज का कार्य करती है । हम मूर्ति की आँखों में आँखें डालकर अपने तीसरे नेत्र के ट्रांसमिशन केन्द्र को सक्रिय करें गे तो विराट के ट्रांसमिशन केन्द्र से आप सीधा सम्बंध स्थापित कर पायेंगे इस में कोई दो राय नही हो सकती। हम अपने अवतारों की मूर्तियाँ बनाकर उसकी पूजा करते हैं , अपने दख ु सुख कहते हैं और उनसे उनके निवार्ण की प्रार्थना करते हैं ।अक्सर लोग कहते हैं कि प्रभू हमारी बात क्यों नही सुनते है ?कारण हमारे प्यार में वो शिद्धत वो सच्चाई नही होती है । अक्सर दे खा गया है कि आप अपने प्यारे दोस्त से ज़्यादा आप अपने दशु ्मन को याद करते है , उससे की हुई नफ़रत को आप बड़ी शिद्धत ये निंभाते हैं । आप चाहते हैं कि आपकी बात प्रभू तक पहुँचे तो पहिले
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अपने मन को साफ़ करिये, जैसे मिट्टी में नया पौदा लगाना हो तो पुराने पौदे की जड़ों को खोदकर निकालना पड़ता है , वैसे ही मन से दस ू रों के प्रती जो नफ़रत आपने जमा की है उसे अुखाड फेंकना होगा। मिट्टी से हम कंकर पत्थर निकाल फेंकते हैं वैसे मन से ईर्ष्या द्वे ष क्रोध को भी उठाकर बाहर फेंक दीजिये। अब हम उसमें नया पौदा लगाकर उसमें पानी डालते हैं उसी प्रकार हम मन में करूणा और प्रेम का नया पौदा लगाकर अपने मन को प्रेम से ओतप्रोत कर उस विराट से सम्पर्क स्थापित करें गे तो तुरंत हमारी अरदास सुनी भी जायेगी और उसका फल भी हमें मिल जायेगा। आप या आपका कोई प्रियजन कभी विकट स्थिति में फँस गये हों तब आप मंदिर जाकर बड़ी शिद्धत से बड़ी श्रद्धा से सभी इंद्रियों को केंद्रित कर हर बात भूलकर प्रभू से उस स्थिति से निकलने की प्रार्थना करते हैं , उस क्षण आपका मन मस्तक सारे विकारों से दरू होकर प्रार्थना करता हैं और चमत्कार होता है , आप उस विकट परिस्थिति से अुभर आते हो। क्यों, कैसे? उस एक क्षण के लिये आपका ह्रदय सारे विकारों से दरू हो गया और आपके ट्रांसमिशन केन्द्र का सम्बंध विराट के ट्रांसमिशन से स्थापित हो गया। आपकी बात वहाँ पहुँच गयी। सभी ध्रम मानते हैं कि मालिक निराकार है , फिर भी कई धर्म मूर्ति पूजा करते हैं । मुस्लिम समाज मूर्ति पूजा में यक़ीन नही करता है क्यों कि क़ुरान शरीफ़ में मूर्ति पूजा न करने का आदे श दिया गया है , पर उसके कारणों पर ध्यान नही दिया गया है । पैग़म्बर महोम्मद मका शरीफ़ में जिस समय पैदा हुअे उस समय अरब आपस में झगड़ते रहते थे। उस समय उनके पास तीन सौ पैंसठ दिन के लिये अलग अलग आकार की मूर्तियाँ थी। हर दिन वह एक मूर्ति की पूजा करते थे। पैग़म्बर मुहोम्मद को जब ज्ञान प्राप्त हुआ और उन्होने क़ुरान शरीफ़ की रचना की तो उन्होने बिना कारण के तीन सौ पैंसठ मूर्तियों की हर दिन अलग मूर्ति की पूजा ना करने की बात लिखी थी। स्वामी विवेकानंद जी के क़रीबी एक मुस्लिम नवाब थे। वह अक्सर स्वामी जी से धर्म चर्चा करते थे। एक बार उन्होने स्तामि जी से पूछा आप मूर्ति पूजा क्यों करते हो? स्वामी जी मुस्कराये और उनके पीछे टँ गी एक स्त्री की तस्वीर की ओर इशारा किया जिस पर सुगंधित फूलों की माला लगी हुई थी । लग रहा था हर रोज़ उस तस्वीर पर नयी सुगंधित माला लगायी जाती होगी। स्वामी जी ने कहा इस तस्वीर पर रोज़ माला क्यो चढ़ाते हो। नवाब ने कहा यह मेरी माता की तस्वीर है , रोज़ उस पर माला चढ़ाते समय मैं उनके एहिसानों को याद करता हूँ, इस तरह मैं अपनी माँ के दर्शन करता हूँ। विवेकानंद जी ने कहा हम भी हर रोज़ मूर्ति में अपने मालिक के दर्शन करते हैं ।
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 35
ਆਸਟ੍ਲ ਰੇ ੀਆ ਦੀ ਰਾਜਧਾਨੀ
ਕੈਨਬਰਾ ਖਾਲਸਾਈ ਰੰ ਗ ਵਿਚ ਰੰ ਗਿਆ ਗਿਆ ਆਸਟ੍ਰੇਲੀਆ ਦੀ ਰਾਜਧਾਨੀ ਕੈਨਬਰਾ ਵਿਚ ਖਾਲਸਾ ਸਾਜਨਾ ਦਿਵਸ ਸਬੰ ਧੀ ਸਮਾਗਮ, 9 ਅਪ੍ਰੈਲ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਕੰ ਠ ਮੁਕਾਬਲਿਆਂ ਤੋਂ ਸ਼ੁਰੂ ਹੋਏ ਅਤੇ 24 ਅਪ੍ਰੈਲ ਨੂੰ ਅੰ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸੰ ਚਾਰ ਨਾਲ਼ ਸਮਾਪਤ ਹੋਏ। ਦਸਤਾਰ ਵਰਕਸ਼ਾਪ, ਦਸਤਾਰ ਮੁਕਾਬਲੇ ਤੇ ਲੰਬੇ ਸਮੇ ਤੋਂ ਲਗਾਈਆਂ ਜਾ ਰਹੀਆਂ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਕਲਾਸਾਂ ਤੋਂ ਬਾਅਦ, ਬੱ ਚਿਆਂ ਨੇ ਸਟੇਜ ਤੋਂ ਆਪ ਇਕ ਗਰੁੱ ਪ ਦੇ ਰੂਪ ਵਿਚ ਸ਼ਬਦ ਗਾਇਨ ਕਰਕੇ, ਸੰ ਗਤ ਨੂੰ ਕੀਲ ਲਿਆ। ਇਸ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਵਿਚ ਵੱ ਡੀ ਗਿਣਤੀ ਵਿੱ ਚ ਬੱ ਚਿਆ ਨੇ ਹਿੱ ਸਾ ਲਿਆ। ਵੈਸਾਖੀ ਸਮਾਗਮਾਂ ਵਿਚ ਭਾਗ ਲੈ ਣ ਵਾਸਤੇ ਆਉਣ ਵਾਲੀਆਂ ਸੰ ਗਤਾਂ ਦੀ ਸੇਵਾ ਵਾਸਤੇ ਮਹੀਨਾ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਹਲਵਾਈਆਂ ਵੱ ਲੋਂ ਭਾਂਤ ਭਾਂਤ ਦੀਆਂ ਮਠਿਆਈਆਂ ਤਿਆਰ ਕਰਵਾਈਆਂ ਗਈਆਂ। ਵੈਸਾਖੀ ਵਾਲੇ ਦਿਨ ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਦੇ ਚੋਲਾ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਦੀ ਸੇਵਾ ਤੋਂ ਬਾਅਦ, ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੀ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਕ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਵੱ ਲੋਂ ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰ ਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੀ ਪਾਲਕੀ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਲਈ, ਨਵੀ ਖਰੀਦੀ ਵੈਨ ਨੂੰ ਸੰ ਗਤ ਦੀ ਹਾਜਰੀ ਵਿੱ ਚ ਕੇਸਰੀ ਝੰ ਡੇ ਨਾਲ ਰਵਾਨਗੀ ਦਿੱ ਤੀ ਗਈ। ਉਪ੍ਰੰ ਤ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਹਾਲ ਵਿਚ ਸਜੇ ਦੀਵਾਨ ਵਿਚ ਭਾਈ ਪਰਮਿੰ ਦਰ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਅਤੇ ਭਾਈ ਗੁਰਦੀਪ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਨਿਸ਼ਕਾਮ ਰਾਗੀ ਜਥੇ ਨੇ, ਆਪਣੇ ਰਸ ਭਿੰ ਨੇ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਨਾਲ ਸੰ ਗਤਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਨਿਹਾਲ ਕੀਤਾ। ਪੰ ਦਰਾਂ ਅਪ੍ਰੈਲ, ਸ਼ੁੱ ਕਰਵਾਰ ਵਾਲੇ ਦਿਨ, ਅੰ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਵੇਲੇ ਆਸਾ ਦੀ ਵਾਰ ਦੇ ਕੀਰਤਨ ਤੋਂ ਬਾਅਦ, ਸ੍ਰੀ ਅਖੰ ਡ ਪਾਠ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਆਰੰ ਭ ਹੋਏ ਜੋ ਸੰ ਗਤ ਨੇ ਰਲ਼ ਮਿਲ਼ ਕੇ ਆਪ ਕੀਤੇ। ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ ਸਤਨਾਮ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਦਬੜੀਖਾਨਾ ਨੇ ਦੱ ਸਿਆ ਕਿ ਹਫਤਾਵਾਰੀ ਸਮਾਗਮਾਂ ਦੇ ਅਖੀਰਲੇ ਦਿਨ ਭਾਈ ਗੁਰਜੰ ਟ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਬੈਕਾਂ ਦੇ ਕਵੀਸ਼ਰੀ ਜਥੇ ਨੇ ਵਾਰਾਂ ਗਾ ਕੇ ਨਿਹਾਲ ਕੀਤਾ। ਸਿਡਨੀ
ਤੋਂ ਆਈ ਗੱ ਤਕਾ ਟੀਮ ਨੇ ਗੱ ਤਕੇ ਦੇ ਜੌਹਰ ਦਿਖਾਏ। ਕੈਨਬਰਾ ਵਿਚ ਇਹ ਸਭ ਪਹਿਲੀ ਵਾਰ ਹੋ ਰਿਹਾ ਸੀ ਤੇ ਇਹ ਇਕ ਵੱ ਖਰਾ ਖਾਲਸਾਈ ਜਾਹੋ ਜਲਾਲ ਸੀ। ਸਰਦਾਰ ਦਬੜੀਖਾਨਾ ਨੇ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧਾਂ ਦੀ ਦੇਖ ਰੇਖ ਨਾਲ ਆਪ ਵੀ ਗੱ ਤਕੇ ਦੇ ਜੌਹਰ ਦਿਖਾਏ। ਸਾਰੇ ਸਮਾਗਮਾਂ ਸਮੇ ਲੰਗਰ ਦੀ ਸੇਵਾ ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਦੇ ਮੀਤ ਪ੍ਰਧਾਨ ਹਰਵਿੰ ਦਰ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਰੰ ਧਾਵਾ ਨੇ ਸੁਚੱਜਤਾ ਸਹਿਤ ਨਿਭਾਈ। ਬਾਹਰੀ ਸਜਾਵਟ ਤੇ ਹੋਰ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧ ਸੈਕਟਰੀ ਗੁਰਅੰ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਢਿੱ ਲੋਂ ਜੀ ਦੀ ਦੇਖ ਰੇਖ ਵਿਚ ਹੋਏ। ਸਾਰਾ ਸਮਾਗਮ ਤਕਰੀਬਨ ਤਿੰ ਨ ਹਫਤੇ ਤੱ ਕ ਚੱ ਲਿਆ। ਅਖੀਰਲੇ ਹਫਤੇ ਪੰ ਜ ਪਿਆਰਿਆਂ ਵੱ ਲੋਂ ਅੰ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸੰ ਚਾਰ ਕੀਤਾ ਗਿਆ। 21 ਪ੍ਰਾਣੀਆਂ ਨੇ ਅੰ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਦੀ ਦਾਤ ਪ੍ਰਾਪਤ ਕਰਕੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਕੀਆਂ ਖੁਸ਼ੀਆਂ ਪ੍ਰਾਪਤ ਕੀਤੀਆਂ। ਪੰ ਜ ਪਿਆਰਿਆਂ ਦੇ ਆਗੂ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਮੈਲਬਰਨ ਤੋਂ ਆਏ ਭਾਈ ਗੁਰਮੁਖ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਕਥਾ ਦੁਆਰਾ ਖਾਲਸੇ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਗਟ ਹੋਣ ਦੀ ਮਹਾਨਤਾ ਤੇ ਚਾਨਣਾ ਪਾਇਆ। ਜਥੇ ਵੱ ਲੋਂ ਹੀ ਅੰ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਅਭਿਲਾਖੀਆਂ ਵਾਸਤੇ ਕਕਾਰਾਂ ਦੀ ਸੇਵਾ ਵੀ ਕੀਤੀ ਗਈ। ਅਖੀਰਲੇ ਦਿਨ ਟਰਬਨ ਅਕੈਡਮੀ ਆਸਟ੍ਰੇਲੀਆ ਦੇ ਸਹਿਯੋਗ ਨਾਲ ਦਸਤਾਰ ਮੁਕਾਬਲੇ ਕਰਵਾਏ ਗਏ ਤੇ ਜੇਤੂ ਬੱ ਚਿਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਦਸਤਾਰਾਂ ਤੇ ਇਨਾਮ ਤਕਸੀਮ ਕੀਤੇ ਗਏ। ਗੁਰਦੁਆਰਾ ਕਮੇਟੀ ਦੇ ਸੈਕਟਰੀ ਗੁਰਅੰ ਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਢਿੱ ਲੋਂ , ਮੈਂਬਰ ਪ੍ਰਭਜੋਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਸੰ ਧੂ, ਜਗਜੀਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਜੱ ਗਾ, ਨੋਬਲਪ੍ਰੀਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ, ਰਮਨਪ੍ਰੀਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਆਹਲੂਵਾਲੀਆ, ਖਜਾਨਚੀ ਸ. ਮਲਕੀਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਨੇ ਸੰ ਗਤਾਂ ਵੱ ਲੋਂ ਦਿੱ ਤੇ ਵੱ ਡੇ ਸਹਿਯੋਗ ਦਾ ਧੰ ਨਵਾਦ ਕੀਤਾ ਗਿਆ। ਇਸ ਮਹਾਨ ਸਮਾਗਮ ਦਾ ਸੰ ਗਤਾਂ ਉਪਰ ਬੜਾ ਉਸਾਰੂ ਪ੍ਰਭਾਵ ਪਿਆ। ਬੱ ਚਿਆਂ ਨੇ ਬੜਾ ਉਤਸ਼ਾਹ ਪ੍ਰਾਪਤ ਕੀਤਾ। (ਸਰਬਜੀਤ ਸਿੰ ਘ ਪੱ ਤਰਕਾਰ)
ਸ੍ਰੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗ੍ਰੰਥ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਸਰੂਪ ਦੀ ਸਵਾਰੀ ਪ੍ਰੇਮੀ ਸੰਗਤਾਂ ਦੇ ਘਰੀਂ ਲਿਜਾਣ ਵਾਸਤੇ ਖ਼ਰੀਦੀ ਗਈ ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਵਿਖਾ ਕੇ ਰਵਾਨਾ ਕਰਨ ਸਮੇ।
ਕੀਰਤਨ ਅਤੇ ਹੋਰਸਰਗਰਮੀਆਂ ਵਿਚ ਭਗ ਲੈਣ ਵਾਲੇ ਬੱਚਿਆਂ ਨੂੰ ਸਨਮਾਨਤ ਕਰਨ ਸਮੇ।
Pramukh Swami Maharaj: Honored Yet Humble spirituality. Mahant Swami Maharaj Measuring the praise Pramukh Swami Ma- highlights that though Pramukh Swami haraj received is as futile as measuring the Maharaj was praised by all, he remained water in the ocean with a mere cup. How- ever humble. ever, the experiences of others give an inEVER HUMBLE... SHUNNING PRAISE sight into how Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s On countless occasions throughout his life, life touched people from different backPramukh Swami Maharaj has shunned any grounds all over the world in multiple ways. acclaim that came his way and deflected it The Solicitor General of Canada, Bob to others. Kaplan, said, “If the world learnt from After Akshardham opened in New Delhi, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, then it can India on November 6, 2005, many lauded become a place free of crime, war and Pramukh Swami Maharaj for building terrorism, and become a more peaceful such a breathtaking monument. Instead place to live.” Head of the Ramanuj of accepting this, he adamantly attributed Sampradaya, Pujya Varad Yatiraj Jeer all the achievements and glory to his guru Swami, said, “By the presence of such a Yogiji Maharaj. Everyone chases fame; sadhu, all of humanity is uplifted.” however fame follows great sadhus such REVERED & RENOWNED WORLDWIDE
Such was the world’s exalted opinion as Pramukh Swami Maharaj wherever of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s spotless they go; but, they do not desire it at all. character, selfless service to society and Pramukh Swami Maharaj Spiritual Head of BAPS (1971 - 2016)
His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016), Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s fifth spiritual successor who was revered throughout the world yet, was ever humble. He was praised by both politicians and paupers, royalty and religious leaders, tribesmen and technocrats. Yet, despite such widespread praise and honour, Pramukh Swami Maharaj was always humble and deflected the tributes towards God and guru. BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham - New Delhi, India
PRAISING OTHERS
ਦਰਬਾਰ ਹਾਲ ਵਿਚ ਕਵੀਸ਼ਰੀ ਜਥਾ ਵੈਸਾਖੀ ਦਾ ਪ੍ਰਸੰਗ ਸੁਣਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ।
ਸਿਡਨੀ ਵਾਸੀ ਪੰਥਕ ਵਿੱਦਵਾਨ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਸੰਤੋਖ ਸਿੰਘ ਜੀ ਪੰਜ ਪਿਆਰੇ ਸਾਹਿਬਾਨ ਨੂੰ, ਗੁਰੂ ਘਰ ਵੱਲੋਂ ਸਿਰੋਪੇ ਪ੍ਰਦਾਨ ਕਰਕੇ ਸਨਮਾਨਤ ਕਰ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ।
36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
In 1985 in Amdavad, India at the conclusion of the grand 59-day bicentenary celebrations of Gunatitanand Swami the first spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, all praised Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s ability to execute such a remarkable festival. On the final day, during the concluding volunteer’s assembly, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said to the 15,000 volunteers, “Nothing is achieved by one person. This festival was a success because of all of you. Everyone contributed in their own way. We are truly blessed by God and guru. Your efforts have made this all possible. All I did was just sit on this chair...” Pramukh Swami Maharaj praised the devotees for their selfless service, sacrifice and claimed to have done nothing himself. However, the previous two years leading to the bicentenary celebrations highlights the depth of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s humility. Pramukh Swami Maharaj had suffered a serious heart attack causing all spiritual travels to be immediately cancelled. Doctors advised him to avoid any form of exertion, speak only for short periods and eat at regular times. However, his journey for the next two years shows nothing less than derision for his own fragile health.
In the period of 888 days, he visited a dizzying 737 villages, towns and cities worldwide. During his travels, there was only one certainty — that nothing was certain. His rest and meal times were erratic.
Swami Maharaj’s life that did not touch someone. Countless were impressed by his humanitarian work, while others were moved by his spotless character. Many were astounded by his mandir-building capabilities or how he inspired youths to renounce worldly ambitions; others were left speechless when they witnessed his devotion to God and his gurus. The mountains of praise Pramukh Swami Maharaj received bears testament to this. Amidst this, he remained untouched by ego, in fact he shunned the tributes, and showered praise on everyone else. His life is a pinnacle of humility.
This year marks Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s centennial birth celebration year; The 20 visits to devotees’ homes sched- therefore, we aim to pay a tribute to his uled in the morning would become a 100 centennial birth celebration year, through in the blink of an eye. During this time, he this article series. travelled a staggering 133,404 km. To put Just like Pramukh Swami Maharaj, today, this into context, in 888 days, he circled His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the globe more than three times! the present spiritual successor of BhagSuch was Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s hu- wan Swaminarayan continues that legacy. mility; that despite his immeasurable ef- Through his association people have been forts, he could openly praise his devotees transformed to experience inner peace. for the outstanding success of the festival. To learn more about Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life and work, please visit: ALL THE PRAISE IS NOT ENOUGH... www.pramukhswami.org There was not an aspect of Pramukh Pramukh Swami Maharaj: Vicharan (Spiritual Travel)
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 37
Indian Born Raj Guruswamy is running for Senate in Queensland BRISBANE Raj is a mechanical engineer with an MBA who moved to Australia from India in 1992 and became a citizen in 1995. Muthuraj Guruswamy (Raj) is currently Director at Raj Business Consultants and previously worked as General Manager – Business Development with primary responsibility for providing high-level strategic planning advice to the Executive Team regarding new business opportunities in Australia. Raj was instrumental in establishing Adani's operations in Queensland. Raj has worked in Australia for over two decades and has led the early discussions between GVK and Aurizon. He has also worked with Aurizon to build the Galilee Basin's rail business. He has successfully created Linfox and Toll Group operations in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Laos, and India. He also serves on the Brisbane Council of the Australian Institute of International Affairs. Mr. Raj gave an exclusive interview for the viewers and listeners of Australian
Indian Radio. He shared his views and opinions on various topics related to the current elections held by Australia’s federal government in May 2022. Being an ex-business executive, Mr. Guruswamy was asked why in the first place did he choose to change his directions from business to politics, on which he said, “being a business executive himself – he would like to make some policies and enforcements which will help to ease in setting up companies in Australia. Not only for the large-scale business but
small and medium scale businesses (farming and mining) that would help in the sustainable growth of Australia’s business environment. His key policies focused on giving more opportunities to companies and easing the functionalities for doing business in the state of Queensland and the federal government. As we all know, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party is famous as an anti-migration and racist party. So, why did you choose to be a part of this party? He replied, “he
doesn’t think that Pauline Hanson is racist as she has encouraged him to join the party, being an Indian origin Australian himself. She believes in sustainable immigration and not stopping the immigration.” Mr. Guruswamy feels there should be more sustainment immigration where the infrastructure — the housing, water, transport, energy, etc. — can cope with the population. Youth is the future of the country; they should be proud of Australian values, culture, and heritage and do something that will
Being an exbusiness executive, Mr. Guruswamy was asked why in the first place did he choose to change his directions from business to politics, on which he said, “being a business executive himself – he would like to make some policies and enforcements which will help to ease in setting up companies in Australia. make Australia proud. He trusts there should be no room for Western, white, gender, guilt shaming in any classroom, and instead, children should be taught the benefits of a meritbased, free-thinking society and focus on education. He also believes in creating more Australian jobs
and improving sovereign capability and selfsufficiency for today’s youth and coming generations of Australia. Speaking about the most talked about and hot topic, Climate change – Mr. Guruswamy’s had mixed feelings. He did not wholly support it while claiming to be 'the only political party to question climate science. Talking about the one nations party overall on nuclear energy investigations support and strongly opposing subsidy schemes offered to foreignowned solar and wind energies, he said – “being an ex Adhani executive feels that the supporting experiments are the different part and there should be companies and government owing to the properties than any other countries due to energies in Australia which can make various reasons and opinions. Mr. Raj is spot as the number 2 on the ticket seat in the Senate at the May election with a suite of changing all the populist opinions of reducing migration and foreign ownership set by Pauline Hanson’s one nation party.
Gold Coast’s first Desi Mela -Vaisakhi on the beach
GOLD COAST, the first Desi Mela to be held in Glod Coast, took place on Sunday 1st May at Broadwater Parklands in Southport. Harjit Harman and Sajjan Adeeb performed live with the full band at the mela, a family event with lots of cultural activities and food stalls.
Desi Mela was organized and promoted by Manmohan Singh of Desi Rocks, assisted by Pushpinder Oberoi of the Gold Coast Cultural Association. Over 1500 people attended the inaugural meal, including live music, cultural performances, and food
38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
stalls. Dignitaries in attendance included Angie Bell, MP Rob Malhoek, MP Sam O’ Connor, and Manish Khanna of Netvision and other sponsors. Brisbane Indian Times and Australian India Radio were proud media sponsors.
Make your vote count this federal election
Voters are reminded that Saturday 21 May is election day, and support is available to help them have their say in Australia’s future. Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers said it was crucial people understood how to cast a valid vote. “All citizens aged 18 and over must vote in federal elections, and correctly completing both ballot papers is the only way to make sure your vote counts,” he said. “The AEC has a range of information and services to support those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to take part in the electoral
process. “Translations of Your official guide to the 2022 federal election – along with a How to make your vote count factsheet – are available online to download in 33 languages. “When visiting a polling place, you’ll find multilingual flipbooks explaining how to complete ballot papers, and bilingual AEC officials will be available in some areas. COVID-19 safety measures will be in place for those voting in person. “Don’t worry if you make a mistake on your ballot paper. Just ask a polling official for a replacement and start again.”
If voters can’t make it on election day, they may be eligible to attend an early voting centre or apply for a postal vote on the AEC website. Those voting by post must have applications in by 6pm Wednesday 18 May – so they should act quickly to ensure enough time to receive, complete and return their ballot papers. Mr Rogers also encouraged voters to stop, check and consider the source of what they see, hear, or read this election. “In Australia we’re lucky to enjoy freedom of political communication, which means during an election you’ll see information that
“The AEC has a range of information and services to support those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to take part in the electoral process. “Translations of Your official guide to the 2022 federal election – along with a How to make your vote count factsheet – are available online to download in 33 languages. seeks to influence your vote,” he said. “While the AEC isn’t the
referee of ‘truth in political advertising’, we take the spread of misinformation
and disinformation about the election system very seriously. “We work hard to debunk conspiracy theories on social media – while partnering with the platforms themselves – have a ‘disinformation register’ to correct the record on mistruths and translated factsheets and short videos on our website. “Importantly, everyone plays a role in reducing disinformation. Voters should always ask themselves – is it from a reliable source? When was it published? Could it be a scam? This will help you make an informed choice when you cast your vote.”
Politicians are wooing Indian... CONTD. FROM PG 1 fielding candidates with Indian heritage, and capitalising on issues important to the community — especially in key western Sydney seats like Greenway and Parramatta, and the Victorian electorate of La Trobe. Appealing to community Analysis by advocacy group Allies in Colour has revealed there are more than 100 candidates from diverse backgrounds contesting lower house seats this election. Around a third of those candidates have a background from the Indian subcontinent. The Liberals mainly have their Indian-origin candidates in electorates like Greenway, Lalor, Chifley, Hotham and Maribyrnong — areas with some of the highest concentrations of India-born voters in NSW and Victoria. In the safe Labor seat of Chifley, Liberal candidate and Punjabi man Jugandeep Singh has been appealing directly to his community. "I won't say you should vote for me just because I'm Punjabi, because that's the wrong message for a multicultural Australia," Singh told a crowd of hundreds in his native language. "I can't ask for your vote just because I'm Punjabi. But I will say whenever you begin something new, you should Call: (07) 3192 5188
start by talking it through with your family and you are my family." Labor and Greens candidates are less targeted, but the parties have focused on positioning candidates with subcontinental ancestry in the multicultural seats of Higgins, La Trobe, Swan and Werriwa.
Finding a political voice There are a few factors that help explain the political interest in the Indian diaspora, says Dr Sukhmani Khorana from Western Sydney University's Institute for Culture and Society. "I think politicians are waking up to the fact that there is a sizeable diaspora, especially in marginal seats [with] new and undecided voters," she told the ABC. She says Australia is also trying to prioritise its relationship with India after the diplomatic fallout with China. Professor Jakubowicz added that Indians became Australian citizens at a much higher rate compared to other nationalities, and had a large middle class who spoke English on arrival. Indian Australians were a critical mass at the last election, too, but Dr Khorana says the way they were treated during the pandemic has given the community a louder political voice.
"The fact that there was a travel ban on Indian origin Australians travelling during the height of the Delta pandemic, that caused a furore in the community." It's an issue Labor's La Trobe candidate Abi Kumar has also used to attack the Liberal Party. "Unfortunately we have been led by a prime minister ... who told international students to go home when they needed the government's support ... who in May 2021 told Australian citizens stuck in India that [if they came back] it will be punishable by five years jail term or a $66,000 fine ... a prime minister who's goose is cooked, no matter how many curries he cooks," he told a Melbourne crowd.
Temple selfies and empty gestures For many candidates from non-Indian backgrounds, turning up to grocery stores, temples and community events has become a regular part of the campaign. On April 8, Liberals Dan Tehan, Jason Wood and Sharn Coombes posed in garlands outside a Victorian temple with India's Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, who was in Australia following the signing of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement. On April 20, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg stopped by for a
photo-op in Sydney's Little India with fellow candidate Maria Kovacic. One Facebook critic commented: "Don't forget how the LNP treated India and indian-Australian citizens during Covid!" Political campaigning group Reclaim the News has also funded a Facebook ad recirculating what are described as "racist" comments made by the Treasurer in 2020. He had been criticising Labor's idea of a "wellbeing budget" in Parliament. "I was thinking yesterday, as the member for Rankin [opposition treasury spokesman Jim Chalmers] was coming into the chamber fresh from his Ashram deep in the mountains of the Himalayas barefoot in the chamber, robes flowing, incense burning, beads in one hand, wellbeing budget in the other, I thought to myself: 'What yoga position the member for Rankin would assume ... to deliver the first wellbeing budget?'"
Leveraging Indian media In the western Sydney seat of Parramatta, both Labor candidate Andrew Charlton and Liberal Maria Kovacic have rushed to make inroads with the community beyond Facebook posts. Around 15 per cent of residents in the electorate
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have Indian ancestry, and the seat is held by Labor with a 3.5 per cent margin. Both candidates have met with local community and religious leaders, and done interviews with one of the country's leading Indian newspapers, Indian Link.
Religious funding Since the start of the campaign, the major parties have collectively promised more than $8 million in funding for Hindu and Sikh temples, cultural centres, and community kitchens, if they're re-elected. Labor kicked it off in early April with a $700,000 pledge towards a new community kitchen in Melbourne for Sikh Volunteers Australia. The organisation is known for cooking and delivering free meals for vulnerable Australians, and stepping up during natural disasters. The funding promise was matched last week by the Liberals. On April 14, Minister for Education and Youth Alan Tudge announced $1.5 million for a Hindu community hub in The Basin in Victoria. Labor followed with the same promise on April 23. Election promises Sociology professor Andrew Jakubowicz says while the Indian-Australian community is complex and varied, voting trends can be found in sub-communities.
"Punjabi Sikhs tend to be slightly more pro-Labor than the wider Hindu community," he says. "You [also] have a whole group of Indian professionals, people involved in various forms of business, a very significant group who are directly involved with the health industry, and each of them come to the political environment with a slightly different orientation. "But there's no doubt in my mind that the Liberal Party in particular has been very closely involved in drawing Indian community leaders and influentials into their sphere of influence and interest." Liberal candidates like Mr Singh have built their campaigns around a promise to decrease processing times and fees for parent visas — an issue integral to the Indian migrant community. "I think we'll probably see some public statement, particularly from the Liberal Party on that issue, before the election," says Professor Jakubowicz. The other hot button issue for the group is the recognition of overseas qualifications. "There's a lot of concern about the difficulty Indian trained professionals are having finding work in their own area of expertise, primarily because of issues around expectations, local experience, it was very hard."
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Rwandan Association of Queensland commemorates the Rwandan Genocide
BRISBANE The Rwandan Association of Queensland commemorated the 28th anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi at the Queensland Parliament House on Saturday 7th May 2022. Senator Paul Scarr was the chief guest, and member of the multicultural community, including Umesh Chandra OAM, was in attendance. The Rwandan genocide, commonly known as the Tutsi genocide, took place between April 7 and July 15, 1994, during the Rwandan Civil War. During these 100 days, armed militias slaughtered members of the Tutsi minority ethnic group and some moderate Hutu and Twa. According to the most frequently accepted literary figures, Tutsi deaths range from 500,000 to
662,000. The president of Rwandan Association of Queensland (RAQ) INC, Theogene Ngabo, in his speech, said “Greetings and welcome to our Annual Rwandan Genocide Commemoration 2022. I begin by acknowledging the traditional custodians of this land on which we gather today. I respect the Turrbal and Jagera, their elders, past, present, and emerging. I also want to acknowledge and thank all political and community leaders who are here with us today. Ladies and Gentlemen, with profound gratitude, I stand here among you to remember all the victims of the Rwandan Genocide. We recognize all Tutsis, Hutus, and Twas and foreigners whose lives were
lost during the Rwandan Genocide. As we mark the twenty-eighth year of the Rwandan Genocide, I know there are many opinions and equally many emotions and sensitivities across our community. But let me be obvious; today is about remembering and paying homage to millions of Rwandan Genocide and foreigners whose lives were lost during the Rwandan Genocide. Ladies and Gentlemen, as we come together to remember the victims of the Rwandan Genocide, I would like to remind everyone that we all have moral and legal responsibility collectively and individually to ensure we preach the messages of peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation among our people and communities. We
“Greetings and welcome to our Annual Rwandan Genocide Commemoration 2022. I begin by acknowledging the traditional custodians of this land on which we gather today. I respect the Turrbal and Jagera, their elders, past, present, and emerging. also have the responsibility to call out loudly any language or behaviour by anyone that attempts to create, encourage divisions, or incite hate and violence among our people.
We must reflect very critically and hardly on and learn from our past and do everything we can as individuals and community with support from our friends to ensure that what happened in the Rwandan Genocide will never happen again. Let’s distance ourselves from human rights abuse, violence, threats, intimidation, injustice, and discrimination wherever we see it. We should all embrace tolerance of different opinions culturally, socially, and politically; We should engage with each other and resolve our differences peacefully and respectfully. The Rwandan Association of Queensland leadership calls upon all the Rwandans and our friends from the broader African and Australian community
to genuinely support and work with us for peace, unity, forgiveness, and reconciliation and refrain from any private and public sentiments inflame hate and divisions among our people. As a community leader, I am not usually the one that handles engaging in the debate about the specifics of what took place in my mother’s land of Rwanda. I am very sure that the whole world knows about it. There’s plenty of credible research and writings about the horrific artificial and unimaginable human tragedy of our recent history. The RAQ leadership message for today is to talk about peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation as we remember you individually and collectively. Thank you all!”
$3.5 million promised for Australia India house project A re-elected Morrison Government will deliver $3.5 million to the Australia India House Charitable Foundation (AIHCF) to build a permanent base in the Springfield area. The funding will allow the AIHCF to construct a premises, known as Australia India House, that can be used for community meetings, events and day to day business. The funding commitment was made by Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs Jason Wood while visiting the AIHCF at Springfield with locallybased Senator Paul Scarr, LNP candidate for Blair Sam Biggins and LNP Oxley candidate Kyle McMillen. LNP candidate for Blair Sam Biggins said the AIHCF helped hundreds of migrants in the community and an established Australia India House would be a place where the entire community was welcome. “I am thrilled with this announcement and I know that an Australia India House is welcome news for the Indian-Australian community in Blair,” Mr Biggins said. “I am proud to be part of a team that supports our
wonderful multicultural community.” The AIHCF is a nonprofit organisation that was established in 2019. Since the early 1970s, the migration of people of Indian origin to Queensland has increased substantially. More than 50,000 Indians are now living in Queensland. The building will also be used for crisis and interim accommodation, supporting domestic violence victims
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within migrant Australian communities and provide education and vocational training. AIHCF president Professor Prasad Yarlagadda said he was thrilled with the announcement, which would allow the charity to reach out and engage with more people in the wider community. “This greatly appreciated funding will serve the diverse needs of Queensland multicultural communities
to host arts and culture events, festivals of national significance and educational programs,” Professor Yarlagadda said. “This initiative by the Morrison Government demonstrates the national commitment to supporting the Indian diaspora. It will turn the Australia India House into living testimony that Australia is the most successful multicultural country in the world.” Professor Yarlagadda added it would also provide a permanent base to support the specific cultural needs of the community. “Unfortunately, at the moment, there is no centrally located facility to celebrate and preserve Indian culture,” Professor Yarlagadda said. “The project aims to use a place as a learning centre of culture and language by the different groups within the Indian community.” Other community organisations have also pledged support towards the project, including Springfield City Group. Only a Morrison Government can be trusted to keep the economy strong and secure a stronger future for Australia’s multicultural community.
Dr. Vikas Moudgil calls for the legal framework to restructure to be inclusive of migrant needs BRISBANE Dr. Vikas Moudgil was featured in the May episode of Aap ki Sehat. Dr. Moudgil, Consultant Psychiatrist, Clinical Director of Mental health services at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, gave a stimulating talk using the analogy of ‘Simran,’ a migrant woman from the Indian subcontinent. He said that domestic violence has a significant mental health impact, especially on women who face language barriers, cultural biases, lack of family support, and legal issues. Dr. Moudgil emphasized that the current legal framework for managing domestic violence needs to be tailored to the specific cultural needs of the migrant population. Dr. Moudgil is also a Senior Lecturer at the University of Queensland. He achieved a Master’s in Health Management from the University of New South Wales in 2013. He earned Certified Health Informatician Australasia in May 2019.
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Dr. Moudgil has been a permanent member of the Queensland RANZCP Branch Committee since May 2015, where he has engaged actively in a range of policy decisions for the State government. He has also been an active member of the Family Violence Psychiatrists Network Committee for RANZCP at the federal level, where he has shown commitment to improving awareness and education for our psychiatric workforce in managing family violence across our country, with a particular interest in the culturally and linguistically diverse
population, where such problems are not talked about, and access to appropriate supports and care can be challenging. “I’m looking forward to working with IMA Queensland and hope to expand and grow the profile of this pivotal association for doctors whose benefits should be reaped across our society.” Aap Ki Sehat features on the Facebook live channel of Australian Indian Radio on the first Saturday of every month and an audioonly version on Australian Indian Radio on the first Sunday of every month at 10:00 AM.
Local stars shine in the April Episode of Music Junction
BRISBANE, April episode of Music Junction “Sitaroon ki Mehfil” featured an array of Bris-Vegas talents; the variety concert included an instrumental segment, and the artist was Sarbani Sur on electric Hawaiian guitar. This special episode included all previously
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featured artists in a carefully selected playlist. The show was hosted by Suman Dua in absence of RJ Savi who is currently in India. All the numbers were very well received with amazing feedback and good reviews. Music Junction was launched as a platform
for local seasoned and upcoming artists to showcase their talents; if you or anyone you know would like to be featured on the show, please get in touch with our team for an audition; inquiries can be sent to air@ indianradio.net.au
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 41
Gyanvapi case: Petitioners to oppose plea to remove official It comes a day after Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, which manages the Gyanvapi mosque, filed the petition in the court of civil judge (senior division) Ravi Kumar Diwakar, seeking Ajai Kumar’s removal alleging him of being “bias”. After hearing the petition on Saturday, the court posted the matter for Monday. Advocates representing the petitioners in Gyanvapi mosque-Shringar Gauri temple case in Varanasi on Sunday said they will oppose a petition filed before a civil judge that sought removal or replacement of the court-appointed advocate commissioner Ajai Kumar, tasked to survey the Maa Shringar Gauri Sthal in the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi complex. It comes a day after Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, which manages the Gyanvapi mosque, filed
the petition in the court of civil judge (senior division) Ravi Kumar Diwakar, seeking Ajai Kumar’s removal alleging him of being “bias”. After hearing the petition on Saturday, the court posted the matter for Monday. “We will file an objection in the court of civil judge (senior division) Ravi Kumar Diwakar on May 9 against the petition filed by Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee seeking removal of advocate commissioner Ajai Kumar,” said Sudhir Tripathi, who is one of the advocates representing the plaintiffs — Rakhi Singh, Manju Vyas, Sita Sahu and Rekha Pathak. The petitioners in their plea filed last year sought the permission to perform daily worship of deities Shringar Gauri, Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman and Nandi whose idols are on the outer wall of the Gyanvapi mosque. “The allegation by the
lawyers of the mosque committee that the advocate commissioner is biased and conducting the survey keeping in view the interest of the plaintiffs is completely baseless. The advocate commissioner conducted the proceedings of the survey in a quite fair (way). We will urge the court that the advocate commissioner should not be changed,” Tripathi added.
Congress Working Committee to meet today to review panels’ plans on key issues
The proposals of these six panels will be part of a resolution that will be adopted during the threeday chintan shivir which is slated to begin from May 13, a party leader familiar with the developments said. Preparing the ground for the party’s chintan shivir (brainstorming session) in Udaipur later this week, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) will meet on Monday evening to finalise the proposals of the six panels which were formed last month to deliberate upon the political and economical situation in the country. The proposals of these six panels will be part of a resolution that will be adopted during the threeday chintan shivir which is slated to begin from May 13, a party leader familiar with the developments said. The meeting of the Congress’ top executive body assumes significance as it will define the scope of discussions on a number of issues related to farmers and agriculture sector, the situation related to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, Other Backward Classes
and minorities, social justice and youth in the upcoming chintan shivir, the party leader said, seeking anonymity. The meeting will also allow the CWC to delve into other issues such as inflation, the economic situation, high unemployment rates and current political situation, the party leader added. “The importance of the brainstorming session is immense. While it is aimed to revitalise the party and discuss the political line, a number of social and economic issues will also come up for debate and there is a scope of mid-course corrections to take on the BJP,” a senior leader involved with the preparations of the meeting said on condition of anonymity. The Congress’ chintan shivir, which was last held in 2003, is being organised at a time the party is struggling to win elections and has been reduced to just 29 seats in Rajya Sabha and 53 in Lok Sabha. “Issues relating to the welfare and well-being of kisans (farmers) and khet mazdoors (farm labourers),
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Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, religious and linguistic minorities and women social justice and empowerment and youth will also be discussed in detail. Besides these, matters relating to organisational restructuring and strengthening will be examined. The chintan shivir will also deliberate on the broad strategy of the Congress for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections,” the senior leader quoted above said. The six panels, that are expected to submit their proposals to the CWC on Monday, are headed by leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge (political), former external affairs minister Salman Khurshid (social justice and empowerment), former finance minister P Chidambaram (economy), general secretary Mukul Wasnik (organisation), former chief minister of Haryana Bhupinder Singh Hooda (farmers and agriculture) and Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Warring (youth and empowerment). Each committee has nine members.
Kumar was appointed as the advocate commissioner in the case, titled Rakhi Singh and others vs UP state and Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, by the local court on April 8. After hearing the matter, the court directed the plaintiffs and advocate commissioner to present their side in the court on May 9, said Yadav.
A copy of the order by the court was delivered to the advocate commissioner and the petitioners, he said, adding they have been directed to come with all documents and evidences to present their side. SM Yasin, joint secretary of the mosque committee, on April 30, said that no one would be allowed to enter the mosque for the survey. There has been a protest over the survey of several deities, including Shringar Gauri, located in Varanasi’s Kashi Vishwanath temple premises and the Gyanvapi Masjid complex. Court-appointed official and a team of lawyers conducted an inspection at Gyanvapi Masjid on Friday in connection with a plea seeking access to a Hindu temple behind it. The survey and videography at the mosque also continued on Sunday.
On Saturday, the advocate commissioner with his team arrived for the survey and videography of many deities, including Shringar Gauri, located in the Gyanvapi complex, Varanasi. But the survey could not start as the advocates of the mosque management committee, who arrived about an hour after the survey team, opposed it. A huge crowd gathered outside the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi complex and shouted slogans. Police personnel drove them away. One person was taken into custody. On Friday, too, some slogan-shouting was witnessed when the courtordered survey began under tight security in Varanasi. The court of the civil judge (senior division) of Varanasi, Ravi Kumar Diwakar, on April 26 had ordered videography of the Maa Shringar Gauri Sthal by the advocate commissioner.
10 lakh cash seized from Bihar jail superintendent’s office, raids on: SVU An SVU official said the raid was conducted on the basis of an FIR (first information report) registered by the vigilance police station in state capital Patna. PATNA: Teams of Bihar Police’s special vigilance unit (SVU) on Friday raided the office and residences of Saharsa district jail superintendent in connection with a disproportionate assets (DA) case registered against him, people aware of the matter said. According to the vigilance unit, the teams found allegedly 10 lakh in the office of jail superintendent Suresh Choudhary and 1 lakh in his Muzaffarpur residence. Choudhary could not be reached for his reaction despite multiple attempts on his phone. This story will be updated when he responds. During the search, SVU also allegedly seized documents related to 15 plots
in Muzaffarpur, Motipur and Hajipur, which according to initial estimates, are believed to be worth 3 crore. An SVU official said the raid was conducted on the basis of an FIR (first information report) registered by the vigilance police station in Patna. Suresh Choudhary joined the service as an assistant jailor in 1994. He is currently posted in Saharsa, nearly 200km from state capital Patna. In the raids conducted at his office and two houses
in Muzaffarpur, SVU said they had also come across documents that indicate he paid 15 lakh for his daughter’s admission to a private medical college and papers relating to 38 bank accounts and fixed deposits in the name of his relatives. Additional director general of SVU, NH Khan, said, “We are collecting the details of the seized valuables from the officer. No estimation has been made yet to ascertain the value of all properties as the searches are still underway.”
Weather News Highlights: No heatwave in Delhi this week, says IMD; PM advises to put heat action plans in place Weather News Highlights: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday reviewed the situation relating to heat wave management and monsoon preparedness in a high-level meeting and advised states and union territories to have heat action plans in place at both state, as well as city and district levels. IMD has also said no heatwave is predicted this week. Delhi summers this year made a record as it was the second hottest
April since 1951 with a monthly average maximum
temperature of 40.2 degrees Celsius.
GOPIO Queensland Women Council High Tea “Never forget that walking away from something unhealthy is brave even if you stumble a little on your way out the door.” BRISBANE GOPIO Queensland’s Women Council organized a High Tea Networking Event on April 30 at Brisbane City Hall. The central theme of this event was ‘Domestic Violence.’ Family, domestic, and sexual violence is a significant national health and welfare issue that can impact victims and people. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2016 Personal Safety Survey, 2.2 million Australians have experienced physical and sexual violence from a partner, and 3.6 million Australians have experienced emotional abuse. About 2.2 million Australians have experienced sexual violence since 15*. Ms. Usha Chandra, Chair of the Women Council, and Prof. Prasad Yarlagadda, President of GOPIO Queensland, welcome all the guests, speakers, and participants and highlight the importance of this topic. Ms. Nina Schrinner, Lady Mayoress of Brisbane, Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust, and Patron of the GOPIO Women’s Council, delivered her keynote address and emphasized the need for charity for the betterment of society. As Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable
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Trust, Nina is committed to ensuring the trust continues to increase its support for the charities making such a difference in our community. Other eminent speakers, Dr. Alka Kothari, Ms. Pravinita Singh-Pillay, and Ms. Carolyn Robinson, also deliberated their talks and discussed different critical aspects of domestic violence. Dr. Kothari showed eye-opening statistics and shared live examples of domestic violence. As a Nationally Accredited Mediator and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Ms. Pillay also shared her client's experiences and case studies to demonstrate the clarity of domestic violence. Ms. Robinson revealed how Beyond DV Ltd was founded because of the lived experience of supporting a loved one through a domestic violence situation. The organization desires to use existing skills, expertise, and contacts to help women and children impacted by Domestic Violence as they rebuild their lives. She talked about free awareness programs/ workshops around the issue of domestic and family violence and providing the most effective support for children and women. Ms. Robinson also acknowledged that Beyond DV had
created the “Love&Learn” Teen Relationship App, which helps young people understand what healthy/ unhealthy relationships look like and how they can access other information and support if they are in an unhealthy relationship. The App is highly interactive, gender-neutral, and freely available in the Apple and Google Play stores. A panel discussion was also organized to take the audience’s questions and was beautifully moderated by Mr. Umesh Chandra. Approximate more than 60 participants attended the function, and it was supported by Councillor Vicky Howard, Brisbane City Council, Globenet Realty, and Cornerstone
Law offices. Councillor Kim Marx, Councillor Fiona Hammond, and Councillor David McLaughlan's offices provided beautiful gift hampers for raffle prize
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winners. The raffle prize money was donated to Beyond DV Ltd for their charity events. The event ended up with a vote of thanks and hope for a way
forward for fostering our future. * https://www.aihw.gov. au/reports-data/behavioursrisk-factors/domesticviolence/overview
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FOCUS ON FIJI Apologise: Camillo To Rabuka – I Will Not, He Replies
‘Mother’s epitome of love’
Responding to Mr Camillo’s demand for an apology, Mr Rabuka said he would not apologise because Mr Camillo had withdrawn and resigned from the party and went through the normal process. The People’s Alliance leader will not apologise to its former Nadi Branch president for not making the cut to contest the 2022 General Election under the party banner. Yesterday, Abel Camillo demanded an apology from Sitiveni Rabuka, claiming that Mr Rabuka disrespected his application, and lied to him and the people of Fiji. Responding to Mr Camillo’s demand for an apology, Mr Rabuka said he would not apologise because Mr Camillo had withdrawn and resigned from the party, and went through the normal process. Mr Camillo said: “He has to apologise for the way he treated me.” “He stopped answering my calls and emails and disrespected my application as the People’s Alliance (PA) representative for Rotuma,” Mr Camillo said, adding that he had fulfilled the criteria to be a candidate. “He didn’t say who the selectors were and didn’t even tell me about not meeting the requirements.” “He emailed my aunt in Australia and that was how I found out that I did not make it as an applicant.” “He disrespected me.” Mr Camillo criticised the PA candidate line-up saying no Rotuman’s were selected even though an Alfred Taito and himself had applied
from Nadi and that certain members who made no contributions to the party were selected. Furthermore, he claimed to have spent $250,000 in 18 years to build his network and that the party had used him. He also made serious allegations of misuse of funds by PA youths which Mr Rabuka said he could not comment on and referred the query to the party Treasurer Joseva Namisi Leano. “They have treated the party like a village.” “There was abuse of money from the youths during the launch in Nawaka,” Mr Camillo claimed. Responding to Mr Camillo’s demand for an apology, Mr Rabuka said he would not apologise because Mr Camillo had withdrawn and resigned from the party and went through the normal process.
“A lot of people have done so much for the party, but only 55 can be selected.” “We’ve got 75 at the moment as provisional candidates and that will depend on the final clearance by the Supervisor of Elections and Registrar of Political Parties,” Mr Rabuka said. He acknowledged Mr Camillo’s application, but stated that he was not part of the committee that rejected his application and was only part of the interview panel. “We will not apologise to Mr Camillo.” “We have done what we have done.” “We have informed everybody and asked them to stay with the party and it is their choice what they do after that.” “We have a long list of 150 that we interviewed and we had a provisional list of 55 plus reserves.”
Sajal Narayan On the conviction of provisional candidate Sajal Narayan, Mr Rabuka said the party would replace candidates who did not make the cut for nomination to the supervisor. “We called him and asked him to clarify the position because that was part of the interview process.” “If any are knocked out before the nomination to the supervisor then the others will be brought in.” “There will be others also that will be knocked back by the supervisor so it’s all part of the nomination process.” He said the party would not hesitate to replace provisional candidates if they have the time to. In the event Mr Narayan’s convictions are true, he said: “We cannot do anything.” “A conviction is a conviction”. “If that conviction amounts to a disqualification in Fiji then that stands, we do not have anything separate.” “What we have to do is check with the legal authorities whether that also tantamounts to a conviction.” “The lawyers have to find out if that conviction means any conviction in the world or only in Fiji.” The remaining PA candidates would be announced next week.
$5 Million Music Academy In Nadi An ambitious investment plan proposal to open a $5 million music academy in Nadi by next year has been launched. An ambitious investment plan proposal to open a $5 million music academy in Nadi by next year has been launched. Fantasy Island, at Wailoaloa, Nadi, has advertised the multi-million dollar integrated resort development project. The academy project belongs to Juxta Beach Fiji Limited managing director, Abbas Ali. He said construction would be carried out in two stages. The first stage would be completed this year. “The second stage of the construction will have a museum and a musical art gallery; “he said. “It will feature a photo and sound studio, exhibition rooms and an exhibit and display auditorium.” Mr Ali was a former secondary school teacher and taught English and Industrial arts for 26 years.
“The whole idea is to bring back the tradition of music to our cultures and offer them the opportunity to realise their potential in music,”Mr Ali said.
Building The three-acre development comprises: eight classrooms, an entertainment theatre a stage for musical performance, and a lounge Construction is expected to take a year. The tender for the construction has already been called. Academy of Music The academy will
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be
managed by a board of governors who will be appointed from the list of patrons. It will be affiliated to similar institutions in India for the purpose of maintaining a certain standard of teaching and conducting exams. The academy will conduct standard music lessons for career and music businesses. Singing lessons, concerts, live music performances and orchestral music involving 10 to 15 instruments, are part of the curricular. Construction is expected to take a year.
Teachers Six music teachers will be recruited from India to teach Indian classic instruments. Two teachers from Africa will introduce African contemporary music which is getting very popular these days. Fantasy Island has six projects in the pipeline: Commercial marina operations and construction of a passenger terminal building, Academy of music (cultural center) ready to start construction Fishing adventure park (partly completed, Water park resort and villas, Restaurant (ready for construction), and a Private hotel. Background Mr Ali said the initial ideas came to him when he resigned from teaching in 1992. The plans were ready for construction but was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The fund to source the project is from their land assets.
Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry says mothers are the epitome of love, care, sacrifice and compassion. He made the comment in a press statement to commemorate Mother’s Day. Mr Chaudhry said a mother is God’s gift to mankind. “She shares our joys, pains and sorrows,” he said. “She guides us through life and teaches us the values that make us better human beings. “She is uncomplaining when she cooks, cleans and tidies up our mess. “She is merciful and
forgiving – no matter how much you hurt her, a mother will ultimately forgive and bear no grudge. “When we are sick she holds our hand and eases our pain.” Mr Chaudhry said people needed to make a special effort during Mother’s Day to show how much they loved and appreciated their mothers. “Make her feel the special person she is in your life — make her happy, shower her with love and tenderness. “Some of you may never have this opportunity again.”
Man, 27, dies in road mishap
A 27-year-old man died in an accident at Waimicia in Rakiraki yesterday morning. This has been confirmed by police spokesman Wame Bautolu. The accident happened at 8.30am. “A twin cab driven by a 30-year-old with six
passengers went off road,” he said. “One of the passengers, a 27-year-old man, died at the scene. “Five of them are under observation at Waimaro Health Centre.” Police investigations continue into the accident.
Heated exchange between AG and NFP Leader over independence of FCCC
There were heated exchanges between Attorney General Aiyaz SayedKhaiyum and NFP Leader Professor Biman Prasad in parliament today after Professor Prasad questioned the independence of the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission. It started with SayedKhaiyum saying that Professor Prasad has continuously undermined the Fijian economy.
Professor Prasad then raised a point of order and stated that the Attorney General was making wild allegations. Sayed-Khaiyum then told Professor Prasad to come to parliament with clean hands. Professor Prasad then raised another point of order and said that the Attorney General is lying. Sayed-Khaiyum then said that Professor Prasad misheard him.
YOU CAN HELP END GENDERED VIOLENCE IN QLD As the financial year comes to an end, we are asking for donations to help us continue this important work. <First Name>, your donation can help White Ribbon Australia and our Community Action Group members deliver vital primary prevention initiatives in communities across Australia. Donate by June 30 to claim a tax deduction for this financial year.
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If you or someone you know is impacted by violence, contact 1800 RESPECT, a free, 24/7, confidential phone and online counselling service. Contact them on 1 800 737 732, or at www.1800respect.org.au In Emergency, call 000.
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 45
Supreme Court clears the OTT release of Amitabh Bachchan starrer Jhund Not too long ago, the Amitabh Bachchan starrer Jhund faced a lawsuit wherein filmmaker Nandi Chinni Kumar sought a stay on release of the movie on OTT platform. And now the Supreme Court has passed an order allowing the release of the film on OTT platforms. The Supreme Court bench of justice comprising of Indira Banerjee and AS Bopanna prima facie found the High Court order was against the balance of convenience. In its order it also claimed that the principle regarding the grant of interim relief was overlooked by the Telangana High Court, where Kumar had filed an appeal. The filmmaker Nandi Chinni Kumar had claimed that he was working on
a film based on Akhilesh Paul. Despite the fact that the Amitabh Bachchan starrer Jhund was based on the life of coach Vijay Barse, Kumar claimed that the film also covered many aspects of Paul’s life. He
alleged copyright violation and moved the court against the makers of the Nagaraj Manjule directorial. However, a settlement was made between the makers which led to Kumar receiving Rs. 5 crores.
Even though he received the sum, Kumar went on to move the High court claiming that he was misled by the Jhund team. But the Telangana High Court observed that since the settlement of Rs. 5 crores was made, the filmmaker was slapped with a fine of Rs. 10 lakhs that was asked to be donated to the PM relief fund. Followed by this, Kumar filed a plea and appealed to the court to stay the release of the Nagaraj Manjule directorial on OTT platform. However, in the recent development, the Supreme Court has given a clean chit to the makers of Jhund to go ahead with the release. The final disposal of the case will be held on May 13, 2022.
Farhan Akhtar joins the Marvel family with Ms Marvel Actor, director, screenwriter, singer and producer, Farhan Akhtar, joins the Marvel family with ‘Ms Marvel’, Disney Plus’s upcoming series. The actor-musician will be a part of the series which introduces Iman Vellani and also includes names like Aramis Knight, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Laith Nakli, Azhar Usman, Travina Springer and Nimra Bucha. While details of Farhan’s role on the series are under wraps at the moment, it is
said that the star will be making guest-appearances on the show that promise to be just as impactful.
‘Ms. Marvel’ is set to premiere on June 8 on OTT platform and introduces Iman Vellani as Kamala
Khan, aka the titular character. Khan is a Muslim American teenager growing up in Jersey City. An avid gamer and a voracious fanfiction scribe, Kamala is a superhero mega-fan with an oversized imagination — particularly when it comes to Captain Marvel. On home turf, Farhan Akhtar is helming Jee Le Zaraa starring Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt. If that wasn’t all, his production house with Ritesh Sidhwani , Excel Entertainment has a multi-year partnership with Netflix.
Mother’s Day Special: Check Anek: Suniel Shetty out the adorable pictures appreciates the trailer of the of Aamir Khan with his Ayushmann Khurrana starrer beloved mother and family!
Be it on-screen or in real life, Aamir Khan is a man who knows how to respect and exhibit values and emotions. He is truly a family man and is frequently seen sharing his love for them with the audience. Today, On the occasion of Mother's Day, Aamir was seen celebrating the day with his Ammi Zeenat Hussein, his sister, Nikhat Khan, and his brother-in-law, Santosh Hegde. A black and white picture of his mother from her younger days evoked a
more nostalgic feeling. Recently, Aamir touched the hearts of millions with the release of his ‘Kahani’ song from his upcoming movie Laal Singh Chaddha and then by launching the very First Podcast of ‘Laal Singh Chaddha Ki Kahaniyaan’ he has taken the internet by the storm. Laal Singh Chaddha is produced by Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao, and Viacom18 Studios. The film is all set to release on August 11, 2022 in theatres worldwide.
46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
Known for his unconventional choice of films, Ayushmann Khurrana has once again left everyone surprised with his upcoming film Anek. The film traces the journey of the ignored states of India, the North-East as Ayushmann plays the man who tries to bring the issues of the states to the forefront. The film’s hard-hitting trailer garnered a lot of appreciation, not just from netizens but also B-town celebrities and Suniel Shetty is one of them. After Article 15, Ayushmann Khurrana will once again be seen in the role of a cop, albeit an undercover cop in Anek.
The political action thriller has been shot extensively in some picturesque locations in the North-East. The film traces the journey of a rather ignored section of India, North-East and brings forth the stereotypes associated with them as well as the political unrest people face in these states time and again. The hard-hitting trailer, that was released last week, seems to have had a strong impact. Anek also stars Manoj Pahwa, J.D. Chakravarti, Kumud Mishra, Andrea Kevichusa amongst others. The film, directed by Anubhav Sinha, is slated to release on May 27, 2022.
Neetu Kapoor opens up about the last time she spoke to late husband Rishi Kapoor
Veteran actor Rishi Kapoor passed away on April 30, 2020. With the actor’s demise, the entire industry and nation were left grieving. Now a couple of years later, Neetu Kapoor opened up about her last conversation with her late husband. Revealing details of her conversation, Neetu said that the last conversation the two of them had was in hospital when Rishi was being treated. Sharing details of their conversation, Neetu continued by saying that, the last time they spoke was on April 13, 2020, which was the day Rishi was put on a ventilator. Revealing a littleknown detail that made the day extra special, Neetu
added that it was also their engagement anniversary, as they had got engaged on April 13, 1979. If that wasn’t all, Neetu Kapoor also revealed that, though her son Ranbir Kapoor tied the knot with Alia Bhatt on April 14, a puja was held on April 13 this year. Later speaking about Rishi Kapoor’s treatment, the veteran actress said that the entire ordeal was tormenting especially seeing Rishi go through all the treatment procedures. Back on the work front, Neetu Kapoor will next be seen in the film JugJugg Jeeyo co-starring Anil Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, and Kiara Advani. The film has been slated for June release.
Disha Patani joins Prabhas and Deepika Padukone on Project K!
Nag Ashwin’s sci-fi Project K, is one of the most ambitious not to mention one of India’s most expensive films of all time, speaking volumes for the scale the entertainer has been mounted on. Apart from being headlined by PanIndia star Prabhas, Hindi film industry superstar Deepika Padukone and the legendary Amitabh Bachchan too were announced as part of the star cast of the VFX entertainer. Joining the Project K family now is Disha Patani,
who has been roped in for an interesting role in the film. The young star was welcomed to the team with a special gift from the makers who mentioned how thrilled they are to have her join the film. It looks like a spectacular year for Disha Patani at the movies with Ek Villian Returns, Dharma Productions’ Yodha a modern-day action entertainer, Balaji’s KTina which she headlines, and now Project K.
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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 47
Hepatitis B – What does an undetectable viral load mean? Any person who has a chronic hepatitis B infection should have a blood test every 12 months to check how much virus is in their blood. As there is no cure for hepatitis B at this time, this needs to be done for the rest of the person’s life. This blood test is called a HBV-DNA test or a viral load test. There is no such thing as a ‘healthy carrier’ or a ‘carrier’ for hepatitis B. The virus is always there but may be at such low levels that it is undetectable in the blood. The amount of virus can rise for many reasons and needs to be checked at least yearly to make sure that it is not causing damage to the liver. The amount of virus in the blood (viral load) will help the doctor know if the person needs treatment, and how often they need to be seen to monitor their
is undetectable. Stopping treatment can cause the virus to ‘flare’. It means the virus can replicate quickly in the blood and cause damage to the liver and make the person very sick. Also, stopping treatment may cause the virus to become resistant to further treatment. Stopping treatment also increases the risk of developing liver cancer. For a list of GPs who can prescribe medication for the treatment of hepatitis B please check:
infection. If you are taking hepatitis B medication and you have an undetectable viral load, it doesn’t mean you have cleared the virus (or cured), it means the treatment is working and keeping the
virus under control. People are prescribed treatment if their body’s defence system (immune system) is not able to keep the virus under control. Treatment is also prescribed if they already
have damage to their liver called cirrhosis, and need protection to reduce the risk of the virus causing more damage. Treatment must be taken and SHOULD NOT be stopped even if the virus
https://www.ashm.org. au/HBV/hbv-prescriberlists/ For more information, please contact ECCQ: Website: www.eccq. com.au/bbv Phone: 07-3844 9166 If you live in Cairns, you can also contact: Rhondda Lewis Viral Hepatitis Health Coordinator Phone: 07-4226 4761 Email: Rhondda. Lewis@health.qld.gov.au
Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)
Beauty Benefits of Olive Oil’s Olive oil is very rich in vitamins, minerals and natural fatty acids. It’s also convenient for sensitive skin and is a powerful ingredient in anti-aging skin care products. Rich in antioxidants, it prevents skin aging, the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines; it nourishes, rejuvenates and protects the skin.
Nimisha Modi
Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013
Hey girls! Save yourself from harsh and expensive lotions with this very simple method. One of my favourite products is extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil is a very popular product that people have used for centuries. Nowadays, it still goes strong and is widely used in the cosmetic industry. Olive oil is very rich in vitamins, minerals and natural fatty acids. It’s also convenient for sensitive skin and is a powerful ingredient in anti-aging skin care products. Rich in antioxidants, it prevents skin aging, the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines; it nourishes, rejuvenates and protects the skin. Rich in vitamin E and A, olive oil helps prolong youth, hydrates the skin, maintains its elasticity and softness. Also, olive oil helps skin cells to regenerate. The list of olive oil benefits can go on and on. How can you use olive oil for beauty? 1) Olive oil in bath To prepare the olive oil bath, just add 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil into your bathtub and you are done! (You can add more if you like). This simple, yet amazing beauty secret can make your skin soft and very smooth. Or Most popular Indian way massage your body with the extra virgin olive oil before hopping into your shower,
after you finish taking your bath, pat your skin dry and wipe away the excess oil; you won’t recognize your skin! It will be amazingly soft and smooth, like a baby skin. 2) Olive oil body lotion Once you start using Olive oil it might be your favourite body lotion! Apply olive oil all over body, while in the shower, right after the shower gel; after the application of olive oil body lotion your skin should feel soft and very smooth. This simple beauty secret is a
48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
very quick and easy way to make your skin look and feel healthy. 3) Olive oil makeup remover Use olive oil as makeup remover in the evening, it gently removes makeup and nourishes the skin at the same time. Apply a little bit of olive oil on a cotton pad (or on a damp cotton pad) and gently wipe away all the makeup from your face. If you have a heavy makeup on, then to remove it massage olive oil all over your face first, and then
wipe it off with a washcloth saturated with warm water. Repeat a couple of times if necessary and remember to be gentle, never treat your skin harshly. Rinse your face with warm, and then splash with cold water; cold water will help stimulate the blood circulation and close pores. You can also use olive oil as a gentle eye makeup remover; it will easily remove waterproof makeup. 4) Olive oil eye cream Yes, you can use olive oil as an eye cream. It will nourish the tender skin
around your eyes and soften fine lines. Gently dab some olive oil under your eyes before bed time or in the morning. Keep your olive oil eye cream in the fridge and enjoy refreshing vitamin filled treatment at a much lower cost 5) How to strengthen nails with olive oil? A warm olive oil bath for nails is an excellent way to strengthen them. It takes only 5 or 10 minutes. Just soak your nails in slightly warmed up olive oil (it shouldn’t be too hot, just a
room temperature). Do this treatment once or twice a week and enjoy strong, shiny and healthy nails! 6) Don’t forget to add olive oil in your salads! Olive oil will improve your skin, hair and nails, and will nourish your body from within. Remember, beauty starts from within! Hope you will benefit using this information. Have a lovely winter. See you next month! Nimisha
Highlights from Ravishing Fashionistas exclusive 2022 Launch Party Ravishing Fashionistas has returned in 2022 after an amazing sell-out fashion event last year, to help women embrace themselves by breaking stereotypes in the fashion industry. After two exciting casting calls in Brisbane and at the Gold Coast, the RF Team held our prestigious Launch Party on Sunday, the 9th of April at Customs House! Just a taste of what to expect at our huge fashion event in August, the guests enjoyed canapes and cocktails in the River Room and Terrace, taking in the spectacular views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge while they mingled and danced the night away. The evening was hosted by influencer and love coach Belinda Rygier, who we are so grateful has become an integral member of the Ravishing Fashionistas family this year, joining us for both our casting calls
and we are grateful for her amazing energy and insight. Guests were treated to a mini runway featuring designs from Nathalie Le Riche art, Kablooie Store, Anannasa and Moreno Marcos presented by a selection of our recently casted models. Liz Murihy and Manish Juneja were among the speakers of the event, sharing their gratitude for our existing sponsors and introducing those new to the Ravishing Fashionistas event this year. The RF Team also shared a presentation about the success of our journey so far - including highlights from our sold-out fashion events over the past three years. We were also humbled to have endorsement in video form from the Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner who provided us with inspiring and encouraging words of support for the values of the Ravishing Fashionistas team.
Guests were treated to a wonderful visual presentation to celebrate the successes the RF Team have seen over the past three years! It is amazing to look back and see how far the RF brand has come. As always we would like to express our gratitude towards our exclusive partners and sponsors, Brisbane City Council, Nationwide Migration and
Education, Business2Sell, Chona Massingham Artist/ Model & Kava Korp. Their collaborative support and dedication enables us to pursue our passion for providing more diverse opportunities for women. We continue to look forward to RF4 and the rest of the year, where we will be able to showcase new designers, discover
new talented women, and advocate for positive body image in the fashion industry. On 6th August, you can witness another unbeatable BRISBANE RAVISHING FASHIONISTAS FASHION SHOW 2022 at Old Government House Brisbane. Bigger than ever, get your tickets now to ensure you are a part of our immersive Spring Themed event.
Buy your tickets now https://www. eventbrite.com.au/e/ brisbane-ravishingfashionistas-fashionshow-2022-tickets234492271697?utmcampaign=social&utmcontent= attendeeshare&utmmedium=discovery&utmterm=listing&utmsource=cp&aff=escb
Information about COVID-19 rapid antigen tests Australian Government Department of Health If you have COVID-19 symptoms, even if mild, you should get tested as soon as possible. Knowing whether you have COVID-19 can help you avoid spreading the virus to your friends, family and your community. You can use a rapid antigen test to find out if you have COVID-19. The test can be used quickly and privately in your home. You can buy rapid antigen tests in a range of places including pharmacies and supermarkets. Free
rapid
Call: (07) 3192 5188
antigen
tests are available from pharmacies if you have one of these concession cards: • Pensioner Concession card • Commonwealth Senior Health Care card • Health Care card • Low Income Health Care card, or • Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold, White or Orange cards. Everyone with one of these concession cards can get up to 10 free rapid antigen tests from participating pharmacies over 3 months,
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with a maximum of 5 free rapid antigen tests per month. A range of translated information about rapid antigen tests can be found on the Department of Health website, including: • where to find rapid antigen tests • how to use them • how to read the results, and • what to do if you test positive on a rapid antigen test. The
resources
are
available in up to 63 languages. They are written in easy to understand language and include images. You can share them with your family and community. To find out more about rapid antigen tests, or if you have COVID-19 and are worried about your symptoms, call the National Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 020 080, and press 8 if you need an interpreter. You can also visit www.health.gov.au
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022 — 49
MAY - 2022
Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )
Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )
Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )
This month, family responsibilities will fall into your lap. There is a good chance that you will have a small get-together with relatives or a settlement in your hometown. Many family businesses should stop arguing with your family and entering into new business proposals this month. There would be a sudden inflow of capital, but you may experience a sudden loss of wealth or money because of the Rahu and Mercury transits. Legal matters may not bring you results, so you should be patient and seek professional advice. Don't make any significant investments in the stock market because the transit of Rahu and Sun is not favourable to finance. Students should stay quiet, not disclose their project plans, and not get too excited about the outcome. Give it your all through hard work and dedication. The transit of Saturn and Mars may create a difficult situation with friends or cause you to be in trouble because you are in the wrong business. Distractions in your studies will affect you in the coming days. This month may yield positive results in love and relationships. Though you likely to have the opportunity to spend some memorable time with your partner, you should be careful not to get into an argument. Singles may have the chance to show their feelings to their partners, and get the opportunity to go on a date. This would result in a memorable time spent together. However, dedication and interaction with a humble and friendly demeanour would benefit you.
The arrival of summer is likely to usher in a better phase for you. However, the hot summer can take its toll on you. You would be dissatisfied with the heat of the month, which can harm your wellbeing. One issue is likely to be disturb you is dehydration. At the same time, you would be mindful of your health by maintaining a healthy diet and fluid balance in your body. You would be cautious and would not allow any illness to infiltrate your body and fully affect it. As a result, a measured strategy is likely to benefit you. The month is likely to demand discipline from those looking to settle down in marriage, especially if you've been dating your partner for a long time. Mutual understanding is likely to result, and the two of you would be pleased with each other. This is your month for marriage, and your parents would also support you. The only piece of advice is to manage your aspirations alongside your partner. Those hoping to start a family may have to wait a little longer. Medication assistance is not out of the question. So, wait for the right moment, and you would be pleased with the way life unfolds. Your accomplishments would be impressive this month, but you should not be overconfident. Many of you are likely to have a mixed financial circumstance this month.
Maintaining a good attitude, being relaxed, and making preparations for this month would ensure the desired results of both your career and personal life. Because of the long distance between you and your family, you may feel lonely, so spend some quality time with your loved ones. Unplanned and longdistance travelling can occur, which may contribute to the success of long-term projects. You should respect your time and schedule ahead of time for each task so that you are not rushed. The analysis of your job and project would assist you in making decisions at work. This month, you must pay close attention to your health. Sleeping discomfort is possible. Foreign-related careers or businesses would produce the desired results. Mars indicates that you should be careful when responding, which would save you from an unnecessary debate. Be patient when making a major job-related decision. You may get a chance to work in a foreign country. There would be communication related to love, relationship, and romance. This would help to reinforce your bond. Promise fulfilment would be essential for a married couple. There may be unanticipated legal expenses. It would be best if you took care of your health because it can result in unexpected costs. Religious practice can cost money. This month is ideal for investing in insurance policies or long-term investments. Heart-related health problems can be complex. Try to avoid needless arguments and discussions before going to bed. Ignorance or carelessness with diet can lead to serious health problems. This month, physical activity and meditation may be helpful for you in maintaining good health.
Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )
Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )
Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )
According to the monthly Horoscope for this sign, you can receive more positive rewards with some obstacles in competition from your counterparts. You are likely to be dedicated to your family and domestic duties. This month, people born under this sign would renovate their homes or purchase a car. In addition, the Horoscope for the month for this zodiac sign suggests that your mother's health may need your close attention. There may be many family outings this month for you. You may receive a promotion and increase in pay on the professional front. Children born under this zodiac sign have a good chance of succeeding in school. According to the monthly Horoscope, the month would be prosperous for people in business born under the sign of the Moon. You are likely to make good strides professionally since the planets seem to be aligned in your favour. The majority of you would gain a lot of money due to your hard work and efforts. The monthly horoscope forecasts a good month for students and children. Many who have been studying for competitive/entrance exams would be pleased with the news this month. Furthermore, according to the monthly Horoscope, the natives may spend quality time with their family members. This would help you in maintaining a positive relationship with them. There's a chance you may arrange a family trip this month. However, since the horoscope predicts health-related issues, you must take good care of yourself and your family members. Do not, under any circumstances, disregard your wellbeing.
This week, success would be your hallmark in your professional life. You would be filled with joy and cheerfulness. You would be able to rise above the stress and pressure of everyday life by engaging in introspection and exercising your mind on things that are not mundane. So, have fun! Generous and warm qualities in you can contribute to many joyful family interactions. Your dedication to the family would assist you in achieveing the love and care you need. While you may appear selfcentred, but you are polite, generous, noble, and kind. The revelation of this essence in you attracts more people to you who seek warmth and treatment. Whatever tasks you work on this week would bear fruit. Your stars seem to be aligned in a way that makes you more charming, intelligent, creatively enthusiastic, and adaptable. Your love and caring as a mother are likely to blossom more these days, as the children and those close to you would find more solace in your company. Whatever career path you choose, the combination of your tenacity and sheer stamina would be a winning one. Personally, this week expected to serve as a stepping stone to your financial or career advancement. Your willingness to assist those in need would gain you widespread respect among the general public. This would be your sweet retaliation against those who have always found an excuse to criticise your efforts.
You are likely to face some difficult circumstances at work at the start of this month. This period would necessitate careful management of your corporate relations to achieve your company's goals and objectives. As the month progresses, you are most likely to receive some new opportunities. As the month draws to a close, you can feel a surge of renewed hope and vitality. This month's favourable planetary support would keep you upbeat about your finances. There would be some commitment strain, but you will have the resources to handle the issues. Gradually, there might be a new opportunity to focus on improving your financial prospects. The second half of the month may gradually lead you to economic growth. At the beginning of this month, you may experience some disturbances in your love life. As the month progresses, you may experience both positive and negative emotions. You have the option of selecting the appropriate solution. You are likely to experience love and intimacy in the latter half of this month. You are likely to have several fun times ahead of you. In the beginning, the planets of education may frustrate you. However, as the month progresses, your maturity and hard work would help you excel in your studies and exams. You should participate in creative pursuits in the latter half of the month to improve your concentration and academic performance to get good grades. Any mild annoyances or seasonal effects would be felt at the start of this month. About the middle of this month, your metabolism may be disrupted. Throughout the second half of the month, the energy levels would steadily increase.
Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )
Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )
Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )
You should expect to achieve success this month if you take an optimistic attitude and take the initiative. Breaking down long-term projects into baby steps can yield expected results in your career with Saturn's help. Don't be rude in conversation, and pay close attention when sending mail or making phone calls. Relationships with siblings and neighbours must be maintained. This month would be favourable for investing in real estate or other property-related matters. There may be international contact, as well as new foreign-related ventures. This month would be a healthy month for marriage relationships. This month would be filled with joy and small celebrations at home. Try to stop making derogatory statements about your family. Savings would be available, but health-related expenses or precautions would be incurred. Jupiter transit can provide religious upliftment, while Ketu transit can provide success in learning new things about your faith. Promotion may take some time, so you must focus on your skills and be patient. The transit of sun indicates that you would be doing some short-distance travelling related to your schooling and career. Mother's assistance and encouragement would result in anticipated results. Jupiter's blessings are likely to enhance your love life. Mars may exert dominance over your girlfriend, so you should give your life partner some breathing room. You have a fair chance of being accepted for higher education in a foreign country. Success may come from the creative arts and occultrelated topics. Those of you studying medicine are likely to succeed in your projects.
As a result of this planetary alignment, you would be brimming with courage and vitality during the first half of the month. There would be prospective opportunities that may change the course of your life. Throughout this period, you would be active and enthusiastic, and nothing would be able to bring you down. Separately, because of your short temper, you may encounter some difficulties. As a result, it is recommended that you maintain control over your words to prevent getting into verbal spats with your loved ones. Nonetheless, the government and higher authorities may back you up. Politicians' power and reputation would grow. The flow of money would improve if you were doing business. You might even start a new project with someone. This could be the wrong time for people who make snap decisions. It is recommended that you ponder carefully before making your ultimate decision. It is critical to avoid hastiness at this time. With your efforts and hard work, you may be able to own your property or house. Some of you may be particularly interested in research and esoteric science. There is a significant likelihood that you receive some of your ancestral property shares this month. Overall, the month appears to be a success, with some high and low points. This month is critical for you to put your words into action. Since your state of mind is eager to establish norms that have never been followed in the past.
Most of you are likely to have a good month. Because good times are on the way, and monetary benefits are guaranteed. During this month, you may explore various possibilities, but try to keep track of your expenditure and adjust your mindset. Furthermore, your love relationship may not be very beneficial this month because you are likely to have disagreements in your love life. On the bright side, your income may improve because you are likely to land a terrific business transaction during this time. The practice of being persistent and putting out hard work in your work may help you conquer all of life's problems. You may need to take care of both yourself and your family members. Avoid taking out-of-town trips during this month. Too many commitments would only lead to overstrain. Your married life can be a constant source of delight and impression, provided you have picked the correct companion. A strong desire to make decisions about your future may arouse the wrath of others, but this is your life, and you are the one who must live it. Unwarranted criticism, excessive concern, and dread most probably limit your sense of freedom and spontaneity. The aloofness of your coworkers would bore you. You require a lot of motivation and encouragement. Business-related short excursions would be beneficial to you. Separation from your family would be an unfamiliar experience for you. However, these changes are likely to make you more selfsufficient and confident in the face of life's challenges.
Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )
Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )
Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )
This week, you may be feeling both angry and hurt. You are extremely sensitive and moderately irritable, and even minor irritations grate on your nerves. Spend some time with your diary and express everything in your thoughts. You would be filled with excitement and cheerfulness. You would be able to rise above the tension and strain of ordinary existence by engaging in introspection and exercising your thoughts on topics that are not banal. So, have fun. Your patience, persistence, determination, and goal-oriented temperament would make it easier for you to deal with your own and other people's difficulties. Your feminine character, concealed underneath your manly shell, may attract new acquaintances since your caring and thoughtful touch may give them the impression that you are highly supportive. It would be beneficial to you. Affection may shower on you, if you are as sweet as honey, paint images of the future, and share some of them with hidden, spiritual, or selfless conversations. Women are likely to have a good week this month. Your feminine side, hidden beneath your manly exterior, is likely to attract new acquaintances since your kind and thoughtful touch maygive them the sense that you are extremely supportive. It would be advantageous to you! If you are as sweet as honey, paint ideas of the future, and share part of them with secret, spiritual, or unselfish dialogues, you are likely to be the object of admiration. This would be a nice one for women.
You can be unwittingly attracted to someone you interact with on a daily basis. It is ideal if you keep a wary eye on the person because your attraction may blind you to the individual's genuine personality. You rarely give your mind and body a break because work is your primary source of enjoyment. And your efforts would result in the rewards you deserve in a timely manner. You need to go back in time at work or with your lover. A crucial scenario is building around you, and while it irritates you, you may be the only one who appears to be calm and unbiased. A person like you requires a lot of love, affection, and warmth, and this month you may have someone by your side to act as a sounding board. And you are most likely to be successful. Self-indulgence and laziness would prevent you from putting your wit and intelligence to work on the initiatives you take on. Try to interact with your employees more and think twice before expressing anything negative about them. You are a pioneer with a mission as a natural leader. You have a tendency to achieve your objectives in uncomplicated ways that do not cause harm to others. Your capacity to be silent, humble, and adaptable when it is not required to express yourself may earn you greater respect, among other things. You can certainly express your philosophical ideas when they are required. Your emotions would be the main threat to your physical condition, and they may even lead to a mental syndrome in the form of repressed rage and grudges.
You can expect to achieve success this month if you have a positive approach and take the initiative. Breaking down long-term tasks into smaller steps can yield expected results in your profession with Saturn's help. Don't be pushy in conversation, and pay close attention when mailing mail or making phone calls. Relationships with siblings and neighbours must be maintained. This month would be favourable for investing in real estate or other property-related matters. There may be overseas contact, as well as new foreign-related projects. This month would be an excellent month for marriage relationships. This month are likely to be filled with joy and quiet celebrations at home. Try to avoid making hateful statements about your relatives. Savings can be available, but healthrelated expenses or precautions would be incurred. Jupiter transit can provide religious upliftment, while Ketu transit can provide success in learning new things about your religion. Promotion may take some time. Therefore you must concentrate on your skills and be patient. The Sun transit indicates that a short distance travelling is in your cards related to your school and job. Mother's assistance and supervision shall ensure success. With Jupiter's blessings, your love life is likely to grow. Mars would exert some dominance over your marriage, so you should offer your life partner some room for breathing. You have a decent chance of being picked for further education in a foreign country. Success would come from creative arts and occult-related areas. Those of you studying medicine would be successful in your endeavours.
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'I don't see much wrong with Virat's batting; should keep playing': Ex-India captain shares piece of advice for Kohli Virat Kohli on Sunday recorded his third golden duck of the ongoing IPL season to continue his torrid period with the willow. The former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper got caught out on first ball of the game against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with a mistimed hit to short midwicket. It was Kohli's third dismissal in the current IPL on the first ball, after two in successive matches last month. (Follow IPL 2022 Coverage) Left-arm spinner Jagadeesha Suchith started the proceedings with the ball for Sunrisers, and the ploy worked with Kohli flicking it straight to fielder Kane
Williamson. In a miserable season with the Bangalorebased outfit, the star Indian batter has amassed just 216 runs in 12 matches with just one half-century. Kohli's last international ton was in 2019 and the mercurial player's career has witnessed a rough patch in the last few months. Pundits including former India coach Ravi Shastri believe Kohli is "overcooked" due to relentless cricket and should take a break. But the ex-BCCI chairman of selectors Dilip Vengsarkar feels the Indian would find his lost mojo only by spending time at the crease. "I feel he should keep playing. You can find form
Chris Gayle vows to return to IPL next year, names two franchises he 'would love to get a title'
The 42-year-old has vowed to make a return to the league next year and has named two franchises he wants to win the title for. West Indies cricket great Chris Gayle has been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) since the 2009 season. However, the legendary IPL batter went unsold at the mega auction in February this year, leaving Gayle out of the tournament for the first time in his career. However, the 42-year-old has vowed to make a return to the league next year and has named two franchises he wants to win the title for. (Follow IPL 2022 full coverage) Gayle has been part of three franchises in IPL history. He was roped in by Kolkata Knight Riders in 2009 and in his two year stint he scored 463 runs in 16 innings with two half-centuries. His most memorable time came at the Royal Challengers Bangalore who signed him in 2011. He played 84
innings for the franchise scoring 3163 runs at 43.3 and a strike rate of 152.7 with five centuries and 19 fifties. In 2018, after going unsold twice at the auction, he was picked by Punjab Kings for INR 2 crore. He scored 1339 runs for the team in 41 games. Despite the numbers, Gayle went unsold for the 2022 season, but he ain't over with IPL yet. Speaking to The Mirror, Gayle expressed his desire to not just return to the league, but also win a major T20 trophy which has been missing from his illustrious CV. “Next year I’m coming back, they need me! I’ve represented three teams in the IPL, Kolkata, RCB and Punjab. Between RCB and Punjab, I would love to get a title, with one of those two teams. I had a great stint with RCB where I was more successful within the IPL, and Punjab, they’ve been good. I love to explore and I love challenges so let's see what happens,” he said.
52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, May, 2022
only by playing, not by resting," the former India captain told Cricbuzz. "Because, you get your form back when you spend time in the middle, when you have runs under your belt. If he scores runs in the last few
games (of the IPL), then he can take a break. My personal view is if he is failing and he takes off, doubts will start creeping into his mind. That is not the way to go about it. "My advice to him will be that the form will come only in
the middle. I do not see much wrong with Virat's batting. The T20 format is such. You can't take time to settle down, because, you have to play shots from the beginning. If you are not in great form, then things tend to get more difficult for a batsman," he further added. Kohli's dry run with the bat has coincided with his stepping down as the leader of India in T20 and Test cricket, and being removed as the ODI skipper. He also relinquished Bangalore captaincy last season. As Kohli looks to overcome the batting slump, Vengsarkar believes the batter has been burdened with high
expectations. Kohli hasn't hit a century in more than 100 matches in all formats but he's got the backing of the former India skipper, who underlined the "impact" of an innings instead of talking about the three-figure milestones. "Internationally, if you have seen, he is getting runs, if not scoring centuries. I feel in India, we think getting runs means scoring hundreds. Scores of 60 and 70 are not considered runs. That is a wrong perception. What is important is the impact of one's innings. That is more important to me than scoring hundreds. We in India are obsessed with personal milestones," said Vengsarkar.
Is Gil the one? The search begins for CEO of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games There is one person being touted as the soon-to-benamed CEO of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games Organising Committee (OCOG): Gillon McLachlan. Nobody knows for sure whether he even wants the job, nor if his resume as an AFL CEO ticks the boxes on the Olympic head-hunter's checklist. There is no clear-cut definition of what the CEO of an Olympic Games organising committee does, just one huge expectation: deliver. No one has ever been an organising committee CEO twice, which means learning on the job – quickly — is essential.
Indeed, few get the chance to see the role through to its conclusion: the position tends to come with its own revolving-door, with the first CEO at some point making way for the second, and even, as happened in Sydney back
in 2000, for a third. When asked about the likelihood of a single CEO lasting the decade, Brisbane OCOG President Andrew Liveris told the ABC it was 'impossible to answer'. "I think this is a four-year
term for myself, for example. The four years will be done such that the next six years actually are done really well, so set up is important," Liveris said. Brisbane's ten-year buildup is three years longer than what Sydney received. Based on history, that could mean four or five CEOs before the Games are staged in 2032. The Federal Sports Minister Richard Colbeck told The Ticket it should be expected that some of the board members will also be "cycled through" as the phases of Games preparation shift, not to mention the changes necessitated through state and federal elections.
We have to keep doing our job, focus on our opponents: Tottenham's Emerson ahead of Liverpool clash While a win can further Spurs’ chances for top-4, it would also dent Liverpool’s hopes as they chase a recordequalling 20th English firstdivision title. Tottenham Hotspur defender Emerson Royal has been one of the key figures for the side in the ongoing Premier League season. The club is in the race for a Champions League qualification spot, and currently stands fifth in the Premier League table with 61 points – two behind their North London rivals Arsenal, who are fourth. With four games remaining in the season, Tottenham would be aiming to secure a berth in the next season’s leading continental tournament; however, they face a tough test tonight when Tottenham meet
Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, who are in the title-race against Manchester City. While a win can further Spurs’ chances for top-4, it would also dent Liverpool’s hopes as they chase a recordequalling 20th English firstdivision title. Emerson, who joined the side from Barcelona (after spending two years on loan
at Real Betis), opened up on the clash against Liverpool. "Normally, pretty much as always. We have our methodology. We practice focusing on our next opponents so that doesn't change with previous results. We just keep doing our job and prepare for the next match,” Emerson said on Star Sports.
Reviewing the season, Emerson said that it has been a productive season for Tottenham. "I believe it's been a very productive season. A season where I've learnt a lot. I come from a very different league, even with a different physicality. But I think I've been adapting well. Obviously, you want fast results but you have to respect that process of improvement. I believe it's been a good season and I've performed well,” said the right-back. "The work we do, we work thinking about ourselves because it gets in the way if you're just trying to pay attention to the other teams. Our main objective is to be on the top-4 but we just work on ourselves and work within ourselves.”
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Do you know how to make your vote count? Green ballot paper – number every box in the order of your choice LY
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Federal election, Saturday, 21 May 2022
AL USE
State Electoral Division of Division Name
It’s important that you understand how to vote correctly.
Number the boxes from 1 to 8 in the order of your choice
On election day you need to complete two ballot papers: •
a green one for the House of Representatives
•
a large white one for the Senate.
On the green ballot paper you are voting for a representative of your local area or electorate in the House of Representatives. On the white ballot paper you are voting for representatives of your state or territory in the Senate.
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Sample ballot paper
White ballot paper – you can choose to vote either above or below the line
Above the line
Below the line By Ornumbering at least 12 of these boxes in the order of your choice (with number 1 your first choice). Byasnumbering at least 12
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Senate Ballot Paper State – Election of 6 Senators
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Your vote will help shape Australia. Practise voting at aec.gov.au To learn more
aec.gov.au 1300 720 153 Authorised by the Electoral Commissioner, 10 Mort Street, Canberra
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Strengthen Medicare Make more things in Australia Secure local jobs Cheaper Childcare graham.perrett.mp@aph.gov.au Authorised G. Perrett, ALP, 250 McCullough St, Sunnybank
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