November 2021 online edition

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

Volume 18, Number 3 Saturday, November 13th, 2021

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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International students to return to Queensland

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 07 3268 6188 International students will be returning to study in Queensland from the beginning of next year and will be the first to quarantine at the Wellcamp facility just outside Toowoomba, the state government says.

Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe made the announcement in parliament today, confirming eligible students could return to study next

year provided they were fully vaccinated.

The Minister said those studying in the medical or allied health fields would be prioritised.

"2022 is the year of rebuilding and recovery for our international education sector and it starts in January, in time for the first semester," Mr Hinchcliffe said.

However, the Queensland

government is yet to receive approval from the federal government on its plan to have international students quarantine at Wellcamp.

A spokesperson from the federal government said it received the plan just two hours before the announcement.

"We will assess in line with federal protocols and preconditions," they said.

CONTD. ON PG 49

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 1

Inside

• Local News ..................................4-40 • Real Estate ................................14-19 • India News ..................................... 42 • Fiji News ......................................... 44 • Entertainment .............................. 46 • Health & Well Being .................... 48 • Astrology ........................................ 50 • Business Directory/Classified ... 51 • Sports News ................................... 52

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh Chandra OAM & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: 0430 193 715 sales@indiantimes.com.au JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS Ram Jattan (UK) / Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) / Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) • ML. M. Nawaaz Ashram • Imam Muhammad Aslam • Pastor Joseph Dass • Haji Abdul Rahman Deen • Jitendra Deo • Nimisha Modi • Ranjita Pillai (Immigration Matters) • Peter Lane Rai • Awadhesh Sharma • Shailendra Singh • Gagan deep Tandon • Ravi Vastrad • Cartoon Corner: Merwyn Machado • Brian Sullivan (Photography)

From the Publisher Welcome to November, can’t believe how fast this year has gone, one would have thought that during a pandemic plagued with lockdowns and limited permitted actives time would have stood still, but no we found other means of keeping our selves busy , in some instances more than pre COVID .

right( Rainy) season. Point I am trying to make here is that, Indian Independence day falls on 15th August and if you hold the celebrations in October , it looses its zeal and charm, its does have the same enthusiasm, nevertheless the committee needs to be congratulated on a job well done.

Well let me begin by wishing everyone all the best for this festive season , hope you all had a wonderful Diwali with your friends and families, we are indeed fortunate to be able to celebrate this year , last year was a different story. Navrarti as well, this year few Dandia session went ahead despite the challenges, well done, I would say to the organisers. Large scale Diwali celebration has been the flavour of the year never have I seen this many Diwali functions being organised in Brisbane and Gold Coast.

I am particularly pleased with the GOPIO Queensland’s 2021 Lifetime achievement award recipient, Turbert Bhagwan Dutta, a very worthy recipient indeed, GOPIO Queensland did well in choosing Turbert Bhagwan Dutta, I have personally worked beside him and have seen firsthand his dedication and commitment.

Congratulations Turbert, this has been a long time coming, we are proud of you.

Let me now touch on GOPIO Queensland’s India Day Fair , despite all obstacles the committee delivered the event to a reasonably high standard, in Hindi there is a saying “ Bin Mausam Malhar Math Gana” roughly translated it means that one should not sing “Malhar” a Hindustani Raag associated with rain unless it is the

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2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

FICQ Diwali, I must congratulate the team for putting on a great event, especially in these challenging times, Lord Mayor was very pleased to see the large number or participants, this event has cemented its place in our community and is well supported by all community organisations.

It was heartening see the participation of the wider community at Diwali , the growing awareness is a testament to hard

work of current community leaders but also to those who have worked tirelessly to lay the foundation they must be remembered and given the due credit .

As a member of Lord Mayor’s multicultural roundtable, I always get a table at the annual awards ceremony , this year was a proud moment for us as out of the top three award two were won by people of Indian Origin, Harish Arora won the Multicultural Business leader of the year award, while Ashawani Soni was awarded Nick Xynias Multicultural young business person of the year. Congratulations to both of you have done us proud.

The last episode of Music junction was the Navrarti special and was received favourably by many viewers , such wonderful comments , while Usha Chivukula and Anvi Vaidya Vaishnav were superb as singers, RJ Savi’s presentation of the show was magnificent, locally captured dance scenes complimented the show, a must watch if you have not watched it yet. Music Junction is a live presentation streamed via Australian Indian Radio facebook page and Youtube channel, all previous episodes can be viewed at your convenience.

Eighty per cent of eligible Australians aged 16 and over have now received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, marking a major milestone set by the federal government at the beginning of the inoculation campaign.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison celebrated reaching the 80 per cent vaccination target, describing it as a "magnificent milestone".

This is a major milestone and will mean a lot more restrictions will ease, it would be naïve to think that every thing will be hunky dory , as the restrictions ease we should be prepared for the numbers to go up initially , it is now a matter of living with the virus, the onus will be on the heath workers , as the pressure grows on coping up with the numbers.

International Travel is opening with new “Bubbles “being announced, once again proceed with care, and unless necessary it should be avoided until things settle down.

Christmas is around the corner and hope you are prepared, many of the targets set

by Government revolved around having families reunited by Christmas, so welldone Australia on reaching the vaccination Target.

December issue will be our Christmas issue, so if you have not done so yet , please contact Rajani Chaudhary for your Christmas well wishes, special festive season rates and packages are available, so get your message out to everyone and share the joy with everyone. Remain safe and healthy even though restrictions are easing do not stop observing the hygienic practice we have become accustomed to, Time to say goodbye, Until Next Month, Happy Reading —Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher

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Visa Options - Migrant Workers – Farm Work Australian Agricultural Visa The State Government will introduce an agricultural-based visa to help address COVID-induced labour shortages in all agriculture, fisheries, and forestry industries.

The Australian agricultural visa is aimed at attracting Pacific and South Asian agricultural workers who are not included and will include routes to permanent settlements and regional resettlement. Where is this information explained?

It will be operational from September 21, before the next harvest, and comes in addition to the current Seasonal Work Program and the Pacific Labour Scheme, which is considered the most successful by the government.

COVID-19 pandemic event visa (Subclass 408) With these visas you can: • stay in Australia if you do not have other visa options and can leave Australia due to the travel restrictions of COVID-19 • stay in Australia to work in these key areas during the COVID-19 epidemic: - agriculture - food processing - health care - care for the elderly - disability care - childcare or - tourism and hospitality Temporary Employment Visa (International Relations) Visa (Subject 403) The Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa Subclass 403 is a temporary work visa in Australia for certain conditions that promote international relations in Australia. There are 6 streams of this

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Subclass 408 COVID-19 Pandemic event visa holders under the Seasonal Worker Program or Pacific Labour Scheme If you are currently in possession of an expired COVID-19 Pandemic event visa you may be eligible for another COVID-19 Pandemic event visa if: • wish to remain in Australia to continue working in a critical field under the Seasonal Worker Program or Pacific Labour Scheme; or • you cannot leave Australia before the end of your visa due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Can I work for another employer with my 403 Visa?

Employees in the Seasonal Worker Program or Pacific Labour Scheme are only allowed to work for one Sponsor / Approved Employer unless the Department of Home Affairs has given you permission to change.

During COVID-19, you can move between authorized sponsors / employers.

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CONTD. ON PG 43

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 3

Island escape packages to Maldives and Phuket

By Rama Gaind

Confidence is building slowly with Tourism and Trade Minister Dan Tehan talking about overseas travel

by Christmas. Even Prime Minister Scott Morrison has firmed up the government's commitment to restart international travel once 80 per cent of people, aged 16 and above, are fully vaccinated.

That’s coming to pass in a matter of weeks.

Optimism takes hold as travel operators put together some inviting holiday packages that have been launched to celebrate a gradual return to travel.

There is one that comes to mind, going to the Maldives

and Thailand. The two experiential packages offer a much-anticipated holiday escape that is sure to be amazing.

Centara Hotels & Resorts has put together a getaway of a lifetime with a 21-night Ultimate Twin Island Escape deals to two world-famous paradise islands – the Maldives and Phuket.

There’s a choice of an all-inclusive experience with the Luxury Twin Island Escape package or a Bed & Breakfast meal plan with the Grand Twin Island Escape for bookings and stays until 20 December 2021.

Local authorities have implemented relevant preventative measures and protocols. Fully vaccinated travellers can enjoy quarantine-free stays on both islands, provided they show proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to arrival, and follow travel guidelines of both their countries of origin and destination.

Luxury escape The ‘luxury’ escape offers the ultimate all-inclusive getaway in premium

accommodation and a full board-meal plan with choice of immersive activities to experience the destination.

Guests arrive at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives from Malé by complimentary seaplane transfer and enjoy a carefree seven-night stay in a deluxe overwater villa perched over the crystalline lagoon.

The grand all-inclusive meal plan includes three daily meals with premium beverages, afternoon tea and an open bar. Also included is a choice of complimentary excursions including whale shark snorkelling or sunset cruise, as well as a generous spa credit.

A similarly memorable time awaits at the beachfront Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, where travellers enjoy 14-night full board stay with a deluxe suite private pool, from which they can take in sublime views of the Andaman Sea from their private terrace.

A full board meal plan includes daily breakfast, set lunch and dinner, complete with non-alcoholic beverages. There will also

Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket, Thailand.

An aerial view of the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives. be an opportunity to explore the resort’s very own water park and exhilarating water sports, and enjoy a choice of complimentary activities such as a Muay Thai lesson, Thai cooking class, spa treatment or Thai high tea set for two.

Grand escape Ideal for travellers who seek the freedom to explore everything the Maldives and Phuket has to offer, the

‘grand’ package provides all the essentials for a hasslefree holiday, including daily breakfast and roundtrip seaplane transfers in the Maldives.

In the palm-fringed paradise of Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, get ready to enjoy a familyfriendly getaway in a beach suite nestled on the white sand beach and unlimited use of canoes, pedalos and windsurf equipment, as well

as, discount privileges on spa treatments.

In Thailand’s favourite island destination, travellers enjoy a 14-night, quarantinefree stay at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket with complimentary daily hotel credit to redeem for culinary and spa experiences.

Best of all, you have the option to choose to start your stay in the Maldives or Phuket - for both packages.

Staying positive!

Have a hassle-free holiday at the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives.

PAYBACK TIME

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au

We all go through unfair situations. We got dismissed for speaking out or somebody walked out of a relationship. The health came down. This can cause you to be disappointed and discouraged. Often you will feel like, nothing you can do about it. But God can.

God is the God of justice.

He’s seen everything you have been through. Every person that did you wrong,

every lonely night, every tear. The job that was denied to you. Your super was not fully paid. They didn’t pay you the total wages. God is going to make it up for you.

Those people that caused you to be inconvenienced, you don’t have to get upset over it, thinking of revenge.

God knows what you are owed. He is in control of your life, and He knows how to make it up to you. I am encouraging you to stay in faith and keep trusting God. In the scriptures (Matthew 20 v 1-16), we read of a parable from Jesus about a wealthy landowner who went looking for labourers to work in his vineyard. He found some workers at 6 am and promised them $100 for a day’s work, to which they agreed. Then he went back and got more workers at 9 am, midday, 3 pm, and finally at 5 pm. His payment method was strange because

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

he gave them all the same wages. So, when those who came early in the morning complained, the owner said, “you agreed to work for me for $100, and I paid you so.

This is my money; I keep the records and decide how much to pay my workers, even if I pay everyone the same.”

Here are 3 things we can learn from this landowner’s method of payment.

1) They were all paid because they were on the payroll. Just like the landowner, God is your paymaster. When you put your faith and trust in His hands, you are not on people’s payroll but God’s.

Your opposition may try and stop you, but God can use it to increase you, open new doors for you, and fill your life with His joy and peace.

Instead of being bitter,

turn it around, “Father, I thank you that people may not see my true worth, they may cause me to be inconvenienced, but I am not on people’s payroll; I am on Your payroll.”

When Joseph was betrayed and sold into slavery by his brothers, he was paid the slave's salary while working for his Egyptian master. When he was falsely accused and put in jail, he was getting a prisoner’s allowance. But when God promoted him, and he became the Prime Minister of Egypt, he was paid the Prime Minister’s wages. Just like Joseph, remember, as a believer, you too are on God’s payroll.

Keep trusting God. He knows how to push you to where you belong.

2) They were paid as if the landowner owed them, money. You may have been cheated, generation after

generation, but God keeps the records, and He knows how to repay you. This is like Workcover compensation.

Those who started at 5 pm got paid for a whole days’ worth of labour. When God told Moses to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt into their promised land, the king of Egypt wouldn’t let them go. So, God sent plague after plague, and finally, he let them go.

The Israelites were pleased, but God wasn’t satisfied.

So, He told the people to ask the Egyptians for their gold, silver, and jewellery.

God made sure that they would be compensated for the injustice, pain, and loss they had suffered at the hands of the Egyptians, for generations.

3) They were paid for 12 hours of work when they only worked for an hour. This looks as if their pay was backdated. In the

evening, they got paid in full, and this was their backpay. In the Bible, Jacob worked for his father-in-law for 7 years so that he could marry his daughter, Rachel.

But instead of Rachel, he was given Leah as his wife.

Then Jacob had to work for another 7 years. Laban made him work for almost nothing and changed his wages 10 times. But finally, when Jacob left his fatherin-law, God blessed him with an abundance of possessions. Jacob said, “God has seen my affliction.

He has blessed me with an abundance.”

So today, I want to encourage you, stay in faith, for God keeps all the records. When God compensates you, it is going to exceed your expectations.

It is going to be far and beyond in your health, at work, relationships, etc.

God bless you.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 5

Adultery - Sadhguru, Isha Foundation Q: How does adultery affect a person’s spiritual growth?

Sadhguru: One thing that needs to be understood is that if there is no love in your heart, you are anyway an adulterer. Without love in your heart, for convenience or comfort if you have given yourself to any aspect of life – not necessarily a man or a woman – you are an adulterer. In that sense I am against adultery. But from the perspective of what is considered socially as adultery, it is individual choice. For every action that you perform there is a consequence. Most people are not willing to face the consequences when they come. They want to have situations that they enjoy without facing consequences.

Anybody who is not willing to joyfully accept the consequences that come to them for whatever actions they perform is a fool. A fool goes against himself in so many ways.

If you are turning against yourself because you have given in to an aspect of your body or emotion or anything, it is definitely not okay, because you will bring suffering to yourself.

It doesn’t make sense to bring suffering to yourself – whatever the reason.

If you live sensibly in a way that the creator will be proud of you, it is fine.

If you have just given in to the ways of your body, emotion or mind, and are going against yourself, it is not sensible. today but tomorrow will make you feel like a fool.

That is a senseless way to live. You must live in such a way, with so much sense that god should be envious of you. If you show such sense, there is no right and wrong with your life.

If you do not have such sense, everything is wrong with your life.

In your life, you must do what makes utmost sense to you. It is not about right or wrong. That is not the point. Are you living your life sensibly? Or are you a slave of something? That is the question. A senseless life is sin, isn’t it? If you live sensibly in a way that the creator will be proud of you, it is fine. If you have just

If you are turning against yourself because you have given in to an aspect of your body or emotion or anything, it is definitely not okay, because you will bring suffering to yourself. given in to the ways of your body, emotion or mind, and

are going against yourself, it is not sensible.

Is such senselessness wrong?

I am not saying it is wrong, it is just very limited and stupid. Anything that is limited and stupid is not worthwhile. So I would say adultery is not worthwhile.

It is stupid and senseless to give into something which seems to be everything

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and bestselling author.

Sadhguru has been conferred the "Padma Vibhushan", India’s highest annual civilian award, by the Government of India in 2017, for exceptional and distinguished service.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 7

GOPIO Queensland Hosts 11th India Day Fair at Southbank BRISBANE, GOPIO Queensland hosted their eleventh India Day Fair on 23rd October at Southbank Piazza.

The iconic event celebrates India’s Independence Day and is normally held at the amphitheatre of Roma Street Parkland.

Since last year there have been uncertainties about the restrictions. The restrictions imposed at Roma street was unmanageable in 2020 so the committee decided to hold a virtual event which went very well but it is never the same as the real event.

Fast forward to 2021, the restriction was still in place so the committee decided to shift the event to Southbank Piazza which would be more manageable in terms of crowd control with dedicated entry and exit points. Being a under cover venue was another plus point, the shifting of venue wasn’t taken lightly, risks were weighed against the opportunities and threats. As all previous India Day Fair were held at the Amphitheatre in Roma Street Parkland, it had become the default location, and people did not event think of going to another location, if fact few people went to the amphitheatre this year thinking that the event was being held there.

The idea of shifting the venue was nothing new, it had previously been mooted and a lot of time and effort had gone into seeking alternative venues but in vain.

The amphitheatre comes with its own unique challenges, challenges that that GOPIO Qld had learnt to manage, unlike other organisers who overlooked the strict requirements and went ahead regardless. One of the biggest challenges was the uneven terrain where

the stalls are set up, and the strict bump in and bump out procedures.

After the hard decision of shifting the venue, the committee got the wheels in motion of organising the event, the date was set 15th of August and all seemed to be progressing well , the committee had secured the services of a professional event management company to help facilitate the event.

This was uncharted waters for the committee who had previously run the whole event successfully themselves.

A highly successful launch and poster release of India Day Fair 2021 was held at Emporium Hotel in Southbank. At the poster release the new venue and the event partners were announced and introduced.

The event was advertised, invites were sent, and good response was received, then the unthinkable happened as new COVID 19 restrictions came into force in Queensland, the committee had no choice but to shift the date. This proved to be a logistical nightmare , as Brisbane festival had just began and the venue was not available, and there were other competing events happening , in some of which our event mangers were directly involved, all of this pushed the date to 23rd October – a far-fetched date from 15th of August.

With the change of date GOPIO Queensland decided to go ahead with a dinner function at Queensland Parliament house on 15th August, as the day had to be celebrated. This event was organised and completely sold out within thirty hours.

Another highly successful event in GOPIO Queensland Tradition. Many politicians and community leaders

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

missed out on the event as the speaker’s hall was still only accommodating limited numbers as per the COVID 19 restrictions.

India Day Fair 2021was delivered to a reasonable standard, but it did not have the same charm as it would have if it had taken place on the 15th of August. The line of dignitaries was impressive and demonstrated the value placed they placed on the event, the official party included Steve C Coghill – Indigenous Elder, Minister

Leanne Linard – representing Queensland Premier, Umesh Chandra OAM, Katarina Carroll – Queensland Police Commissioner, Lord Mayor Adrian Schriner , Mrs Archana Singh JiHonorary Counsel for India in Queensland, Rakesh Sharma- GOPIO Queensland President, Lady MayoressNina Schriner, Dr Maha Sinnathamby AM – Patron GOPIO Qld, Christine CastleyMulticultural Australia, Jim Chalmers MP – Federal shadow treasurer, David

Crisafulli MP- State leader of opposition and Swami Atmeshananda.

Being a new venue, there were new challenges such as the VIP reception area, and the traditional India Day Parade. The programming as usual began with devotional songs, lifetime achievement award, VIP reception, India Day Parade, Official ceremony, sponsors presentation, afternoon acts and performances. The stalls were on the outer ring of the Piazza, the good

part was that it caused little disruption; downside was that it was a bit disengaged from the program itself.

There were more people in the later part of the day, this is quite normal practice as traditionally people expect senior groups to be performing in this segment.

Not All VIPS are interested in the cultural items and they usually leave after their speeches or the VIP reception. The feed back from the VIPs was that being under cover was a relief.

As organisers the dilemma that we are faced with is balancing the entertainment with the formalities, it is not easy, and we must find the happy medium. Without sponsors an event of this magnitude is just not possible, we realise that sponsors certificate presentation has low entertainment value, but the fact is that without the sponsors we would not have the event. The seating capacity of Southbank Piazza is more than double that of the amphitheatre at Roma Street Parkland and so patrons were spread out in line with the Covid restrictions. The class of performances were high, and it is good to see that groups have come a long way and have put in a lot of effort and energy into staging their acts.

GOPIO Queensland committee worked hard to present India Day Fair 2021, and would like to thank everyone for attending and would like to place on record special thanks to the performers who put in a lot of effort in staging their acts and a very special mention to our sponsors. Hopefully 2022 will be a stable year enabling everyone to plan effectively.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 9

Diwali Fair hosted by GOPIO GC GOLDCOAST GOPIO GC hosted Gold Coast’s first outdoor Diwali Fair event on Sunday 10th of October 2021. The celebration was a huge success with over 2000 attendees, including many invited dignitaries.

Broadwater parklands was buzzing with a multitude of stalls, food trucks and activities for the families to enjoy. Attendees browsed stalls displaying Indian jewellery, ethnic costumes and home décor while children enjoyed free unlimited access to jumping castles, henna tattoos and face painting. One of the unique highlights was the LED Bollywood stilting dolls!

The crowd were thoroughly

entertained throughout the evening with a mix of Bollywood beat, cultural stage performances, live musicians, vocal singing artists and our rocking DJ Desi – Praneel Sinha. The

Gold Coast skyline was lighted up in the true spirit of Diwali with a phenomenal display of fireworks to conclude the evening festivities.

GOPIO GC takes this opportunity to give a BIG thank

you to all of their wonderful sponsors: Study Gold Coast, Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast, Thiel Partners, LJ Hooker – Mr Sanjay Agarwal.

The GOPIO GC Diwali Fair was a wonderful opportunity for the people of Indian origin and multicultural communities to come together to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Diwali. GOPIO

GC would like to express their gratitude to everyone who attended the event and wholeheartedly supported it to make it a huge success.

A special thanks to all the community volunteers and performers in working with the GOPIO GC Executive committee to bring this memorable event together.

GOPIO GC Executive Committee: President: Mr Pradip Gorasia,Vice President: Mr Mokhtiar Singh,2nd Vice President: Mr Pushpinder Oberoi, Secretary: Ms Madhuri Soni,Treasurer: Dr Rajendra Nayak,Joint Secretary: Mr Manish Saini,Asst Treasurer: Ms Priyanka Daga,Youth Ambassador: Shrey Baluja

Turbert Dutta receives lifetime achievement Award

BRISBANE Turbert Bhagwan Dutta was awarded Lifetime achievement award at GOPIO Queensland’s India Day Fair 2021.

In introducing Turbert Dutta on the stage Umesh Chandra OAM said, “ The life time achievement this year goes to a true unsung hero of our community, in today’s day of social media there are many selfproclaimed community leaders, often one wonders how they become community leaders to be known by titles bestowed upon them by themselves.

Quite opposite to that

is our GOPIO Queensland 2021 lifetime achievement recipient, he is one who keeps on working in the background and away from the limelight.

He started his community work well before many of us even got here, Turbert Bhagwan Dutta had migrated to Australia in 1982, coming from a family dedicated to community work, Turbert kept the family tradition and values up.

As I mentioned before he is not one for name and fame and would rather work behind the scenes, but he was never afraid of

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

getting his hands dirty, he is down to earth person who would mingles easily with any tradesperson.

Over the years he and his family have supported many community functions and events.

Organising a function is challenging, and it was more so in the earlier days, and it was in those tyring times that Turbert tirelessly organised community functions.

He organised Diwali functions and funded hall hire at the Endeavour foundation hall in Lutwyche.

Organised weekly

Ramayana in halls, schools, and homes, conducted by Dr Jagdiswar Raj and by his student Anand Kumar St Matthew’s Anglican church at 178 Lyndhurst Road was dedicated on 21 September 1947 by Archbishop Arnott. It closed circa 1988.

The property was purchased by Turbert Bhagwan Ram Dutta and his mother Gayatri Dutta with a view to using it as Hindu temple.

The local Hindu community supported the plan and the Hindu Society of Queensland was incorporated on 22 January

1991.

Gayatri Mandir was officially opened and blessed on Sunday 26 January 1992.

Mr Dutta as the founder president of Hindu Society Queensland organised the first known large-scale public Diwali function in a hall. He served as the founder president for three years Ladies and gentlemen, getting Hindu Society of Queensland incorporated and recognised was no ordinary task. The temple was registered and appeared in the UBD – referdex- many might not even know what that is.

Mains Roads approved the directional sign on the corner of Roscommon Road and Sandgate road.

Ladies and gentlemen today he joins GOPIO Queensland’s wall of fame Turbert Bhagwan Dutta has been ably supported by His wife Pratibha Dutta and their children in many of his community endeavours.

For his late mother, respected Mrs Gayatri Dutta, Gayatri Mandir was long-time dream, she had always advocated for a place of worship that we could proudly say our own, Turbert Bhagwan Dutta fulfilled that dream.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 11

MOSAIC 2021 Included Citizenship ceremony

BRIBSANE The MOSAIC Multicultural Festival celebrated the rich cultural contributions that all of us have brought to our multicultural Queensland through dance, music, spoken word poetry, storytelling, visual arts and crafts, children’s and family

activities, delectable foods and cooking demonstrations.

MOSAIC 2021 was held at Roma Street Parkland, a around the world cuisine was available via many food stalls. Two stages came alive from 10:00 am. A citizenship ceremony was held at Lake Stage from 10:00am

in the presence of Senator Paul Scarr, Councillor Angela Owen and Christine Castley. MOSAIC welcome tent featured short films, Eritrean Coffee Ceremony, Didgeridoo and Afghan Poetry.

The MOSAIC 2021 program featured World

Music and dance by some of South East Queensland's best performers.

The Opening Ceremony featured a Welcome to Country Performance and Smoking Ceremony at 12.00pm on the Celebration Stage.

The International Drumming Performers were

marvellous.

Refugee and migrant community had demonstrated Rock Around the Wok cooking who shared their settlement stories while creating a traditional dish.

The program followed by a Youth Space with interactive games and there were plenty

of kids and family activities.

There was a cultural marketplace featured food, craft and activity stalls.

MOSAIC was a free, familyfriendly event.

MOSAIC was brought to you in partnership with Suncorp, the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council.

Wanderlust The 2021 Lord Mayors Charitable Trust Gala Ball

BRISBANE, Wanderlust the fundraising Gala Ball was held on 16th October at Brisbane City Hall.

Nina Schriner, the Lady Mayoress of Brisbane and Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust She is a mother of four young children aged between 2 and 7. Nina is also a lawyer and in recent years worked as a special advisor to the Federal Attorney General.

She was born in Queensland and has spent most of her life living in Brisbane’s eastern suburbs.

Nina has a real passion for people and absolutely loves the opportunity to provide encouragement and support for the fantastic work being done by charities across Brisbane. Like her husband Adrian, she believes that the sign of a strong, healthy city is a city with a big heart. As the Chair of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust, Nina is committed to ensuring the trust continues to increase its support for the charities that are making such a difference in our community.

She left no stone unturned with the arrangements for

the Gala Ball, City hall glowed with glory, with themed lighting and complementing stage shows. The support for the function was outpouring and it was just so good to see the generosity of so many sponsors and raffle donors.

Guests at the fully sold out event enjoyed a sumptuous meal with a classy beverage package. A wonderful night indeed a true Ball in all aspects.

The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust has been caring for the Brisbane community since the 1960’s.

They provide critical grants and support to local and grassroots charities who help people dealing with our city’s biggest social challenges, every year, they support

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

these charities with: • Two annual grants round of up to $10,000 per charity • Easter Grant of Easter eggs for disadvantaged children • Christmas Grant of children’s toys, Foodbank vouchers and small cash grants of up to $2,000 per charity.

The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust also runs a Major Grant program for large scale projects or for charities in emergent need. For more detailed information about our grants, please visit our grants page.

From making sick kids smile with Christmas presents and Easter eggs to

supporting domestic violence refuges, to distributing nutritious meals to people experiencing homelessness to giving school supplies to

disadvantaged children, we have assisted hundreds of charities in making the lives of others brighter.

Most importantly, every

single dollar donated goes directly to these local charities so they can continue helping people in need.

HELPING YOU GET THE HOME YOU WANT Chat to Nitin Puri, your local Home Finance Manager: 0457 517 732 npuri@westpac.com.au Westpac Aspley 1374 Gympie Road, Aspley

Credit provided by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 13

Where have monthly value changes fallen the most?

By Eliza Owen, Head of Research Australia at CoreLogic Australian property values are seeing a slowdown in the monthly rate of growth. This trend is expected to carry into 2022, as affordability constraints rise, mortgage rates bottom out, and a higher number of new listings takes some pressure off market conditions.

Since the monthly rate of growth in Australian dwellings peaked in March 2021 at 2.8% (or the equivalent of about a $16,000 gain on the median Australian dwelling value), monthly increases have settled to 1.5% (or a monthly increase of approximately $10,000).

The reduction in monthly increases is most prominent at the ‘high’ end of the Australian dwelling market (or the 25% of values, where dwellings values are around $1,000,000 or more). Since peaking at 3.5% in March, Australia’s high end monthly changes in dwelling values has slowed to 1.5% through October.

Figure 2 shows the current upswing has seen greater volatility in the top 25% of dwelling values, with relatively steady conditions across the low end of the market (the low end of the market is considered valuations at around $466,000 or less).

Over the past 12 months, the highest value segment has seen the greatest level of gains (25.4%), compared with 18.4% across the middle of the market, and 16.7% across the low end. However, the volatility at the high end of the market, demonstrated by the rapid decline in growth rates, suggests the high end of the market can also expect a larger downturn in property values.

How are value changes tracking in the capital cities?

While growth rates are slowing at the national level, the October home value index results revealed some differences in momentum across the capital city markets. Each capital city

growth cycle is considered to the right and below, revealing that five of the eight capital city markets are seeing a slowdown in monthly growth rates.

Sydney.

In Sydney, dwelling values saw one of the fastest slowdowns in the monthly growth rate.

Following a peak monthly increase in dwelling values of 3.7% in March 2021, growth has rapidly slowed to 1.5% through the month of October. This is in part due to the inherent volatility in more expensive markets like Sydney. The slowdown in growth rates is likely being triggered by affordability constraints, and the higher levels of new listings being added to the market in recent weeks.

Melbourne.

The Melbourne market has seen the third-fastest slowdown in monthly growth rates of the capital cities. Following a monthly peak of 2.4% in March 2021, the increase in Melbourne dwelling values slowed to 1.0% through October.

Melbourne has seen various headwinds to the dwelling market amid extended lockdowns and a drag on rental demand with the closure of international borders.

More recently, Melbourne saw the largest uplift in new listings volumes across the capital cities, with CoreLogic counting 10,914 new listings added to the market for sale over the past four weeks (17% above the five year average).

Despite the slowdown, a monthly growth rate of 1.0%

is still well above the decade average monthly movement of 0.4%.

Brisbane.

Monthly growth rates across Brisbane dwellings seem to be reaccelerating. Property values increased 2.5% in the month of October, the highest monthly increase across the city through the current upswing, and the highest monthly increase since November The Brisbane housing market has seen some extraordinary tailwinds through COVID-19, including strong interstate migration, normalised remote work and low exposure to the virus itself. Years of relatively subdued growth rates have made typical dwelling values across the city appear affordable ($642,097 in October), at least relative to Melbourne ($780,303) and Sydney ($1,071,709).

Adelaide. Similarly to Brisbane, the Adelaide housing market has seen its highest monthly increase since 2003, with capital gains of 2.0% through October. The momentum was led by a 2.2% rise across houses, but even units saw an increase in monthly growth rates to 1.0% through the month.

The Adelaide dwelling market has recently benefitted from a stronger interstate migration trend, relative affordability to other capital cities and a low level of available properties for sale, with total listings sitting -34.1% below the five year average.

Perth. The dwelling value

change across Perth was -0.1% over the month of October. The virtually flat reading was down from a peak of 2.7% through February 2021, making Perth the market with the fastest slowdown in growth rates.

This slowdown in momentum may be due to a few different factors, including extended state border closures, renewed affordability constraints for first home buyers and a recent uptick in new listings volumes.

Hobart. Across Hobart, the monthly increase in dwelling values has slowed from 3.3% in March 2021 to 2.0% in October. A 2.0% growth rate is still very high, and is equivalent to a $13,274 increase to the median dwelling value over October. Hobart’s persistently strong increases in value represent very strong demand, including from interstate buyers, against extremely tight levels of stock. CoreLogic counted just 660 properties for sale across Greater Hobart in the past

four weeks.

Darwin.

Due to the relatively small size of the market, monthly growth rates are volatile across Darwin dwellings. Nonetheless, there does seem to be a trend of slowing increases. In the three months to October, monthly increases averaged 0.1%, down from a peak monthly growth rate of 2.7% over April. Despite inching higher, Darwin dwelling values are still - 15.0% below the record high value reached in May 2014.

Canberra.

Similarly to Hobart, the Canberra housing market has seen extraordinary levels of demand against low levels of available stock. In what may be some reprieve for buyers, the monthly rate of increase has shown signs of slowing from the recent peak of 2.6% in July 2021. Since then, monthly increases in dwelling values across Canberra have slowed to 1.9%.

It is important to keep in mind that while the rate

of property value growth is continuing to slow nationally each month, even these reduced rates of increase are relatively high. In fact, the decade average monthly movement in Australian home values is 0.4%, far lower than the current ‘slowing’ rates of increase.

Through 2022, monthly growth rates are expected to continue declining. This is due to a combination of factors, including a tighter credit environment, more normalised listings levels, and affordability constraints putting downward pressure on demand. While a strong inflation reading for the September quarter has increased expectations of a tighter monetary environment as soon as 2022, recent statements from the reserve bank suggest an earlier-than-expected hike could be in 2023. This will also be important to follow, given a higher cash rate and mortgage rates would likely put downward pressure on prices.

Clearance rates begin to fall as auction volumes remain high Across the combined capitals, 3,276 homes were taken to auction this week. This is down from the previous week (3,546) but overtakes the week prior as the third busiest of the year. With auction volumes remaining high, the clearance rate has declined steadily over the past few weeks. With 2,620 auction results recorded, this week the combined capitals returned a preliminary clearance rate of 76.1%, down from its recent peak of 83.2% over the week ending 3 October.

The previous week reported a preliminary

clearance rate of 78.9% which was revised down to 76.8% at final figures. This time last year 69.0% of the 1,757 auctions held were successful.

In Melbourne, 1,395 homes were taken to auction this week, down from 1,752 auctions held in the previous week but up from the 611 auctions that occurred this time last year.

With 1,127 results recorded so far, Melbourne reported its lowest preliminary clearance rate since midSeptember, with just 72.0% of auctions recording a successful result.

The

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

previous week reported a preliminary clearance rate of 77.4%, which was revised down to 75.2% at final figures. This time last year, 68.0% of auctions were successful.

Sydney had its busiest auction week since March and its second busiest of the year with 1,228 homes going to auction this week.

The previous week saw 1,151 homes taken to auction,

while this time last year 851 auctions occurred.

With 1,046 results recorded so far, Sydney recorded a preliminary clearance rate of 75.9%. The previous week saw a preliminary clearance rate of 79.3%, which revised down to 76.6% at final figures, while this time last year 73.3% of reported auctions were successful.

Since restrictions lifted across Sydney on the 11th of October, Sydney’s weekly auction volumes have increased by nearly 50%. Over the same period, clearance rates have steadily declined, and the withdrawal

rate has risen. As pent up supply continues to flow to the market these metrics will likely continue to decline.

Across the smaller auction markets, Canberra recorded the highest preliminary clearance rate at 91.4%, followed by Adelaide (85.8%) and Brisbane (84.7%). Perth recorded a preliminary clearance rate of 50% with just 8 of the 16 results collected so far reporting a successful result. Of the five auctions scheduled to be held across Tasmania this week, four results have been collected, three of which were successful.

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Life on Brookwater’s Dress Circle is close to everything you need — public transport, schools, childcare centres, a university, a private hospital, shopping centres and a thriving commercial precinct. We welcome you to experience Brisbane’s best kept secret when it comes to luxury living, and choose from our leading architectural collaborators to design your dream home — complimentary with your Dress Circle land purchase.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 19

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland

Patron Re’t Justice Pandit Devendra Pathik “Arya Ratn”

Trustee Mr. Sukarm Pal Singh

Trustee Mr. Mul Chand

Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre

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

With new cases of COVID-19 still being seen nationally once again just as the holiday season is upon us, proper precautions to prevent the spread of infection are more important than ever. Holiday safety is an issue that burns when families gather, parties are scheduled and travel spikes. While the holidays might look a little different this year due to the global pandemic, gatherings are still possible if everyone agrees to follow the requirements and advice on ensuring your family remains safe and injury-free throughout the season.

With the vacation time of year approaching it’s important to celebrate safely to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases and keep our friends, family and

Holiday Season

community safe. The holiday season is a time for relaxing and celebrating with friends and family. Unfortunately one of the wonderful time of the year can also prove hazardous for our health and safety .

The good news is there are some things we all can do to manage or minimize infection risks and other hazards over the holiday season.

If you are hosting a

holiday celebration, it is very handy to check on the current government advice like the maximum number of people allowed to attend ,Check In Qld app and other conditions. Where possible, keep your guest list small and manageable and make sure you get contact details for all guests and follow all COVID-19 restrictions.

If you feel unwell, do not host or attend social gatherings.

If you have cold or flu like

symptoms, we should get tested for COVID-19. You must stay home and isolate until you get your results back.

The bottom line is 2020/21 has forced us to adapt and adjust the ways we gather and socialize. We’ve learned that we can still gather and celebrate safely by taking precautions.

The holiday season might be the biggest challenge yet.

By remaining mindful of the highly infectious nature of COVID-19 coronavirus, we can still enjoy the things we love about the holidays.

Brighten the holidays by making your and everyones health and safety a priority.

Take steps to keep you and your loved ones,friends and the community safe and healthy-and ready to enjoy the holidays.

President Dr. Sukhvir Singh

Secretary Mr. Hari Chand

TreasurerMrs. Suman Chand

सबसे अधिक सख ु ी और भाग्यशाली

यदि आप ईश्वर की आज्ञा का पालन करें गे, तो वह आपका सम्मान करे गा। ईश्वर से सम्मान प्राप्त करना, यह संसार में सबसे बड़ा सम्मान है । संसार में बहुत से लोग बहुत अच्छे अच्छे काम करते हैं । परिवार की उन्नति के लिए, समाज की उन्नति के लिए, दे श की उन्नति के लिए, और संसार की उन्नति के लिए, बहुत से उत्तम कार्य करते हैं । "कोई रे लगाड़ी बनाता है । कोई हवाई जहाज बनाता है । कोई कंप्यूटर बनाता है । कोई मोबाइल फोन बनाता है । कोई धर्मार्थ चिकित्सालय चलाता है । कोई गौशाला चलाता है । कोई पक्षीघर चलाता है । कोई खरगोश हिरण आदि प्राणियों की रक्षा करता है । कोई गरीब कन्याओं के विवाह कराता है । कोई सैनिक बनकर दे श की रक्षा करता है । कोई संन्यासी बनकर वेदों का प्रचार करता है , लोगों की अविद्या का नाश करता है । वह संन्यासी निष्काम कर्म करता हुआ, लोगों को सद्ज्ञान दे कर उन पर आनंद और सुख की वर्षा करता है , इत्यादि।" इस प्रकार से बहुत से लोग अपने अपने ढं ग से तपस्या करते हुए संसार का उपकार करते हैं । अनेक बार ऐसे समाज सेवक परोपकारी लोगों को समाज की ओर से अथवा शासन की ओर से सम्मानित भी किया जाता है । इस प्रकार के काम करने वाले लोगों में अधिकतर लोग धन सम्मान प्रशंसा प्रसिद्धि आदि लक्ष्य को मन में रखकर इन परोपकार के कार्यों को करते हैं ।यद्यपि यह सकाम कर्म है , फिर भी सांसारिक स्तर पर बहुत अच्छा है ।" परं तु इन परोपकारी लोगों में से कुछ लोग ऐसे भी होते हैं , जो इन कार्यों को करते हुए भौतिक धनसंपत्ति सम्मान आदि प्राप्ति की इच्छा नहीं रखते, बल्कि वे निष्काम भाव से ईश्वर की आज्ञा का पालन करते हैं । अर्थात वे मोक्ष प्राप्ति की इच्छा करते हुए संसार का उपकार करते हैं । "ऐसे लोगों का सम्मान ईश्वर

स्वयं करता है । वह उन्हें इस जन्म में भी सब प्रकार का सुख दे ता है , और मृत्यु के बाद उन्हें मोक्ष भी दे ता है । ईश्वर का यह काम इतना चुपचाप होता है , कि किसी को कानों कान खबर भी नहीं पड़ती।" क्योंकि ईश्वर सब के अंदर रहता है । और अंदर रहते रहते ही वह अंदर से ही ऐसे परोपकारी लोगों को सुख दे ता है । "इसलिए ऐसे निष्काम कर्मी परोपकारी लोगों को अंदर ही अंदर, ईश्वर से इतना आनंद मिलता है , कि उन्हें बाह्य भौतिक धन सम्मान आदि प्राप्ति की इच्छा ही उत्पन्न नहीं होती। यह जो ईश्वर के द्वारा आनन्द तथा सम्मान प्राप्त होता है , यह संसार में सबसे ऊंचा सम्मान है । कहीं लोग जिला कलेक्टर साहब से सम्मान प्राप्त करना चाहते हैं । कहीं मुख्यमंत्री जी से सम्मान प्राप्त करते हैं । कहीं राज्यपाल महोदय से प्राप्त करते हैं । कहीं राष्ट्रपति जी और प्रधानमंत्री जी आदि से सम्मानित होते हैं । ये सब भी अच्छे स्तर के सम्मान हैं । इन्हें भी प्राप्त करना चाहिए। परं तु ईश्वर द्वारा जो सम्मान मिलता है , वह सर्वोत्तम है । उसके लिए भी प्रयत्न करना चाहिए। जो व्यक्ति ईश्वर से सम्मान प्राप्त कर लेता है , वही संसार का सबसे अधिक सुखी और भाग्यशाली महापुरुष है । स्वामी विवेकानंद परिव्राजक

ओ३म ्

VEGETARIAN AWARENESS October is the annual kick-off of Vegetarian Awareness Month and during the month people inform others about the benefits of vegetarianism and help create a better world because vegetarian diet has proven health benefits, save animals’ lives and help to preserve the earth. It is a time to promote the joy, compassion, and life-enhancing possibilities of vegetarianism. It brings awareness to the ethical, environmental, health, and humanitarian benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle. During Vegetarian awareness month is an ideal time to explore the different types of vegetarian diets, their benefits and how these meals can be incorporated into our regular meal schedule. The key is ensuring that we adhere to a well-planned diet that

incorporates a variety of fruit, vegetables, grains, legumes, dried beans and peas, nuts and seeds, dairy products etc that will provide a variety of valuable nutrients our body needs. A properly planned vegetarian diet is healthful, nutritionally adequate, and provides health benefits in

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

the prevention of certain diseases. A vegetarian diet is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Lifestyles that are high in fruits, veggies, and other plant-based foods provide some of the most essential nutrients we need.

If you, do it right, it easily satisfies all of your nutritional

needs.

Vegetarianism offers health benefits and is ecologically sustainable.

Many people also adopt this diet for broader lifestyle or religious reasons. Or often, people choose this path because they’re concerned about the treatment of animals and don’t want to financially support animalkilling industries. जैसा खावे अन्न, वैसा होवे मनआपका खानपान जैसा होगा आपके मन में भी वैसा ही प्रभाव होगा। शाकाहारी सात्विक भोजन-आज शाकाहार के गुणों व माँसाहार के अवगुणों तथा वास्तविकताओं से अवगत होना प्रत्येक मानव के लिये आवश्यक हो गया है । क्योंकि यह निश्चित है जब तक व्यक्ति को पूर्ण ज्ञान नहीं मिलेगा व्यक्ति अपना स्वभाव या विचार नहीं बदल सकता है । जब भी हमारे भारतीय शादियों और अन्य धार्मिक कार्यों होते हैं तो हमेशा शाकाहारी भोजन होता है ।

शाकाहारी दीर्घायु शांत प्रकृ ति तथा सौम्य स्वभाव के होते हैं । क्योंकि यह निश्चित है कि जैसा खाओ अन्न और वैसा होवे मन, जैसा पीओ पानी वैसी बोले वाणी। आज की सबसे बड़ी आवश्यकता बन गई है कि शाकाहार का घर—घर तक पहुंचाने के लिये सभी संकल्प लें। नैतिक, स्वास्थ्य, पर्यावरण, धार्मिक, सांस्कृ तिक, सौंदर्य, आर्थिक, या अन्य कारणों से शाकाहार को अपनाया जा सकता है । इसलिए हमें चाहिए कि.शाकाहारी सात्विक खाना और मेहनत ईमानदारी की कमाई से कमाया हुआ धन खाना घर में लाएँ; सात्विक शाकाहारी खाना बनाते समय तथा खाते समय परमात्मा का धन्यवाद करते हुए, परमात्मा को याद करते हुए ही खाना खाएँ ताँकि हमारे विचार शु ्द्ध हों और एक स्वस्थ समाज का निर्माण हो।

There are VED mantras, which describe what foods are good for us to eat and what foods we should not eat. The mantras describe hundreds of food items including various grains, vegetables, fruits, milk, dairy products ,seeds, tubers, other root vegetables, herbs and medicinal plants and instruct us how to properly utilize them. The message of these VED mantras was later expanded and organized as a separate scripture and named Ayurved which is that branch of knowledge which promotes long life and good health as well as deals with curing disease.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 21

YOU LIVE ONLY ONCE – DO WHAT YOU LOVE DOING WHILE ALIVE - REGRETS ON DEATH BED

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT

Covid has changed the course of life - and DEATH. We are dying in large numbers- with many unfulfilled wishes, hence need for this article to be republished.

This ARTICLE is a survey by an Australian author and a worker in Hospice, palliative care, tending to people who were dying, with little time left.

Even learned sages like Ravan and Bhishm Pitamah in our epics had regrets during their death, while on Mrityu Shayya – death bed.

Many of us have pride in our money, education, materialistic wealth, and other possessions.

SOME ARE SO BUSY EARNING THEIR LIVING THAT THEY FORGET TO LIVE – AND FORGET ONE DAY THEY WILL DIE. Here, I summarise the result from that survey of dying people.

Please read to the end…

AND LEARN BEFORE DEATH ENGULFS US…………….

As we age, we tend to commence viewing life with greater depth of philosophy.

Organising school reunions has been one way to meet older students we may not have met for many decades.

D.A.V. College, Ba Fiji’s international reunions have been held biennially respectively in Canada (2015), Auckland (2017) and Fiji ( 2019). The next one in Brisbane in planned for next year, 2022.

In recognition of age catching up, and death embracing many of our school mates, the 2017 Auckland reunion had appropriate philosophical theme, urging ageing mates to listen, live life, be happy, and smile, as unbeknown, there may be no tomorrow.

Translated in Hindi, this was theme of Bollywood blockbuster: Kal Ho Na Ho

- Suno, jiyo, khush raho, muskurao. Kya pata, kal ho na ho.

And the latest reunion in Ba, Fiji in 2019, continued in similar Bollywood theme – you live only once -Yeh zindgi na milegi dobaara In my Ba reunion experience, it appeared many of our ageing mates from Ba did not reciprocate our desire to meet older students and share the love we had for our long-separated mates.

Many did not seem to care, because they appear to be too engrossed with life and failed to take advantage of meeting old mates who may never again come to their hometown in another DAV reunion in Ba in their lifetime. Life is too short; hence we need to live life to full.

Older people need to be inspired to enjoy stress-free life in their twilight years, without giving much thought to what others may think.

As I am also part of Waitakere Indian Association (WIA) Seniors team, I wish to share some thoughts with my ageing DAV School mates and with friends and relatives in the community who are sliding down the ladder of life.

Coincidently, I was fortunate to come across a NZ Herald article by author Bronnie Ware, who shared thoughts that I also carry – thoughts coming from death beds of those at end of their lives.

Bronnie is an author, an inspirational speaker and songwriter.

She lives in northern New South Wales, Australia. She has worked in palliative care (hospice, endof-life care), tending to those people who were dying. She has worked closely with those having little time to live and noted their most common regrets in life.

I wish to share this with younger ones and my elder friends, so they can learn some lesson and do not die with great deal of regrets.

Her TOP FIVE REGRETS OF DYING are as follows: 1. I wish I'd had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

This was "by far the most common regret".

"People were astonished by how much power they had

Epics and history books are full of accounts of those who had regrets while on death beds. Here, Bhism Pitamah, on his death bed, mrityu shayya, bed of arrows.

He also had regrets if life- things he should have done differently. This article is to make readers learn from mistakes and regrets of others.

It is too late to leave things undone and have realisation of that mistake when it is too late - and you are on your death bed. Still not too late for many-go and attend school and family reunions, start living happier, becoming less grumpy, tell-off somebody who has been bugging you and make most of it while you can.

We all will end here one day. Go ahead, live your life, love, say and do things you did not do while living. So many have gone regretting things they did not do. Have courage and do it now-still not too late for many.

To those younger ones too engrossed with their career -DO NOT WORK YOURSELF TO DEATH AT COST OF QUALITY TIME FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILY. You will be replaced within days of your death in your workplace.

But the vacuum you leave behind in the neglected family will be there forever. So, please, SLOW DOWN -AND SPEND MORE TIME WITH YOUR LOVED ONES.

given to the opinions of others - friends or family or society."

Most people had not honoured even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made, or not made, at times depending on what others expected them to do.

In Hindi, we say… log kya kahenge, what others will say.

This is the biggest folly and fear we have.

Please break away from this and do not care to what others think.

SO, LIVE YOUR LIFE, AND TO HELL WITH WHAT OTHERS MAY THINK. 2. I wish I hadn't worked so hard.

Men especially are used to putting too much of themselves into their jobs – missing treasured family moments and not developing other areas of their life. Most men spent so much time at work that they missed seeing their children grow up and had not spent quality time with their partners.

On their death, the employer will fill their position within days, but the vacuum he leaves in a neglected family remains for a lifetime.

SO, WORK LESS HARD, CARE FOR YOUR FAMILY 3. I wish I'd had the courage to express my feelings.

The Light…And The Life!

Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Key Scripture: Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the Light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” - John 8:12 Dear Reader, Welcome to another inspiring message to light up your life. We all know that light is essential to sustain life on earth. The Living Light is even more vital to lead us from darkness to a purpose filled

life.

We know the importance of Sun light to sustain our planet.

But do you really know the true Light that expel the darkness and evil in this world?

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

Do you know there is a deep spiritual darkness in human hearts?

Darkness is connected with lack of understanding that is led by human igno-rance. Light is connected with knowledge and wisdom to live a successful life.

Let us seek to understand the powerful and compelling statement made by the Lord Jesus to the religious leaders about 2000 years ago. These religious peo-ple caught a woman in act of adultery and they wanted Jesus to judge her ac-tion according their law. The law stated that any one caught in the adultery must be killed by hailing stone at the person in public.

So, Jesus said these religious leaders and their followers,

Many had kept their true feelings to themselves over the years to not upset others.

Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others.

As a result, they settled for a second-rate or mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. Many developed illnesses relating to the bitterness and resentment they carried as a result.

SO, ADMIT “I LOVE YOU” AND HAVE COURAGE TO TELL OFF PEOPLE, THAT THEY ARE A**HOLES – DON’T BE AFRAID TO UPSET ANYBODY

BY SPEAKING YOUR MIND. 4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

"Dying people often want to have some laughter about good old memories. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip by over the years. This applies to the ones who fail to attend school or family reunions and fail to come and meet their old, loved ones and friends.

Unfortunately, many of our Ba friends who failed to come and meet us, will pass away never having those fun time memories of schooldays and walking down those memory lanes. One of the regrets dying people shared with author

“Those who have never sinned, may through the first stone…”.

Surprisingly one by one all religious leaders and their followers dropped their stones and went away.

Because they were deeply convicted of their sins. This action that Jesus showed clearly reveals His beautiful grace and powerful wisdom.

Jesus knew the motivation of these people; they wanted to trap him and deny His ministry of mercy and reconciliation of fallen humanity. All of us need to be rescued from sin that has corrupted our hearts and minds.

Reconciliation is the main mission of Jesus, to restore all human race to its original glory and purity.

You may think, I know good and bad and I am sinless; or I am not that bad of a person. The scripture says, even a thought of

Bronnie Ware was wishing they had stayed in touch with their friends, as shared experiences bring joy.

There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved. Everyone misses their friends when they are dying.

"A lot of [patients wished] they had access to their old friends, so that they could have a little bit of light reminiscing."

It is common for anyone in a busy lifestyle to let friendships slip, and this they regret on their death beds, like those missing their school or family reunions.

SO ATTEND SCHOOLS AND FAMILY REUNIONS, KEEP IN TOUCH WITH OLD FRIENDS AND RELIVE YOUNGER DAYS 5. I wish I had let myself be happier.

"When people were looking back, they realised they'd chosen to focus on dramas or problems or challenges, when [they could] have actually blessed themselves with more happiness." In family reunions or gatherings, some dwell on what separates us (conflicts) rather than having unity, good time and fun. They will feel and act bitter…and regret that action later on death bed.

This is a surprisingly common one. Many did not

lust is an adultery; a thought is a like a seed corrupting your soul and spirit. If you can’t silence a bad thought, eventually, that thought daily it will corrupt your entire body mind and spirit.

Any uncontrolled thought will lead to an action; this violets deep conviction of humanity. And it is born of the evil one (satan) who make people walk in a spiritual darkness. All have sinned and fallen short of God’s moral standard of living in harmony with God and with each other.

Therefore, there is not single person on this planet who can say I have no sins and I am right before God the Creator. The only perfect person ever walked and demonstrated a sinless lifestyle is Jesus Christ. Therefore only Jesus has the authority and humility to say that He is the Light of the world.

Today, you can trust in the

realise until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits of being nasty and loud voiced. The so-called ‘comfort’ of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives.

Fear of change had them pretending to others, and to their selves, that they were content. Some grumpy old ones always wish to remain that way. When deep within, they longed to laugh properly and have silliness in their life again.

This is well-explained by this Hindi song..khushiyon ki har phool se maine gumm ka haar piroya, pyaar tamanna ki Jeevan mein, pyaar ko paa ke khoya…jab tak humne samjha jeevan kya hai..jeevan beet gaya..Translated it means… from flowers of happiness I always wove a garland of grief and sadness, I always wished for affection and love, but always lost them when I found them. By the time I understood what life was, life had already gone by.

When you are on your deathbed, it is too late. How wonderful to be able to let go and smile again, long before you are dying. Alas, many do not have opportunity to learn it before death. This article gives you that opportunity.

SO, STOP BEING TOO SERIOUS, NASTY OR GRUMPY. HAPPINESS IS A CHOICE BLESS YOURSELF WITH MORE OF IT LESSON TO ALL Hope this article will at least inspire one elder, or young one, to change attitude to life, and I will feel blessed.

Life is a choice. It is YOUR life. Choose consciously, choose wisely, and choose honestly.

Choose happiness – and learn from others what they failed to do while they had time. Too late when on death bed.

You live only once, there is no tomorrow -learn and best wishes for a HAPPY long life.

[About the author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a journalist, a community and media commentator and speaks truth without fear or favour. He runs his blog FIJI PUNDIT and comments on issues affecting our communities. This is one of them. E-mail: thakurjifj@gmail. com]

sure hope of His light. God’s light is so wonderful and merciful it will expel every darkness in your heart. A heart full of God’s light is able to live a lifestyle without the fear of death and darkness. We pray that let the Light and Love of Jesus reveal you your true identity today.

We encourage you to Pray like this: “Dear I confess that I am a sinner. I need your grace and mercy. Jesus came to reconcile all humanity to God. Therefore I believe Jesus died for my sins, Je-sus rose from the death for my salvation.

I believe Jesus is the Light of the world, teach me walk in your light and love. Open the eyes of my heart and let me find my true purpose in your light. Amen Email to help you connect with Christ: navig8grace@gmail. com

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 23

Hindutva - Hinduness

The term Hindutva is formed from the root word Hindu.

Initially, the word Hindu denoted the inhabitants of India. Subsequently it became a synonym for the followers of Hinduism, the religion of the Hindus. Hinduism is the distorted translation of the religion of Hindus, which was called Sanatan Dharma or Eternal Way of Living.

Hindutva means the characteristics of Hindus or Hinduness. These characteristics differ according to the sense for which the word Hindu is used i.e. inhabitants of India or followers of Hinduism.

During the foreign occupations, local inhabitants of India were subjected to mistreatment, manipulation and discriminations. Their religion, language and culture were denigrated. Foreign missionaries and campaigners, mostly with the support of administrative institutions, and deceptions, converted people into imported religions.

Using the policy of “divide and rule”, foreign rulers promoted the division of society on the basis of caste, creed, region and sects. That policy served their objectives well but it was detrimental to the welfare of Indians.

Local Indian leaders, educated patriots and social reformers realised the rulers’ machinations and worked to oppose them. They turned to ancient Indian civilisations for inspiration. Ancient Hindus had developed great civilisations, which are described in countless books. The remains of these civilisations have also been uncovered through archaeological explorations.

It was considered relevant to delve into the characteristics of Hindus, who had developed those civilisations, to understand the extent of their accomplishments and interpret them for use in the context of a contemporary nation. Scholars and experts reviewed Indian history and wrote books and articles that suited their purpose. Treatises on Hindutva were also issued from both religious and civilian perspectives.

A prominent writer Chandranath Basu (1844-1910) from Bengal wrote his book in Bengali ‘Hindutva - Hindur Prakrita Itihas’ in 1892. The title is translated as ‘Hindutva – Natural History of Hindus’.

It was centred on the Advait Vedant philosophical aspects of Hinduism.

It combined a variety of traditional beliefs and practices under a common group. He expounded the greatness of Hindu religion and its tradition in an attempt to discourage the people from conversion to alien religions.

Another major proponent of the concept of Hindutva was Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.

He expounded his theory of Hindutva in the prevailing context of contemporary nations.

It was designed to unite the people of India, using an ancient concept of the nation of Hindus.

It is his notion of Hindutva that became a beacon of hope for a large section of nationalists in India during colonial rule.

Savarkar was a freedom fighter, politician and writer. He

was born in a village near Nasik in Maharashtra on 28 May 1883.

He began his political activities as a high school student and continued to do so at college in Pune.

Due to his spirited political activities, the colonial government implicated him in serious crimes and sentenced him to 50-years imprisonment.

He was transported to the Andaman Nicobar Islands and imprisoned in the Cellular Jail in July 1911.

He was aware of the political environment of his time and had witnessed religious unrests in various parts of the country.

He realised that Hindus were especially depressed. He was familiar with the Vedic tradition and history of Hindu kingdoms, and was dismayed by the status of his contemporary Hindus, who were divided into various castes and sects.

During his incarceration in the cellular jail, he framed the definition of a Hindu in the following Sanskrit couplet.

Aasindhu Sindhu Paryanta, Yasya Bharat Bhumika; Pitribhuh Punyabhu-shchaiva, Sa Ve Hinduriti Smritah.

“Those for whom Bharat Bhumi, the area from the Sea to Sindhu, is Fatherland and Holy land are known as Hindus.”

In the cellular jail, he did not have access to paper and pencils, but had learnt the technique of inscribing on prison walls with a pointed pebble or thorn, without being detected by authorities. He scribbled his ideas on walls and used to remember them by rote.

In May 1921, Savarkar was transferred to a jail in Ratnagiri, Maharastra. In the prison, he came into contact with other political prisoners who had access to writing materials.

Despite being confined and isolated as a revolutionary prisoner, he could manage to get real paper and pencils.

He expanded his ideas on Hindutva and completed a treatise titled ‘Essentials of Hindutva’ in 1922, in the jail.

The text was smuggled out undetected by jail officials and published in 1923.

The book became so popular

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

that well-known Indian leaders of the time including Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya and Lala Lajpat Rai hailed it as amongst the most original and scholarly contributions to the Hindu ideology.

In January 1924 Savarkar was released from jail but was confined to Ratnagiri district.

He became a prolific writer and wrote a number of books. In 1937 he was unconditionally released from internment in Ratnagiri.

He worked to consolidate the Hindu community.

Savarkar became the president of Hindu Mahasabha, a political party. After Indian independence, he continued addressing social and cultural elements of Hindu society until his death in February 1966.

Savarkar’s concept of Hindutva forms the basis of Hindu or Indian nationalism. He was an atheist and pragmatically practiced Hindu philosophy.

He differentiated Hindutva from Hinduism.

Hinduism as a religion is only a part of Hindutva.

He offered a new direction in understanding the development of the Indian nation in his book on Hindutva. He started his book with a discussion on the importance of a name. A name relates a person, place or thing to their past. The past is the source of inspiration for progress.

Then he defines what is a Hindu. He refers to ancient texts and relates the word Hindu to Sindhu. Sindhu or Indus is the name of a river of the western region of ancient India, now Pakistan. The river Sindhu originates around the Mount Kailash in Tibet and discharges into the Arabian Sea. Another major river named Brahmaputra also originates in the same region. It flows toward the east and finally enters into the Bay of Bengal. Hindu texts highlight Sapta-Sindhu, or seven rivers, which are considered sacred.

The term Sindhu also means the Sea in Sanskrit.

Earlier, it was understood that Hindu was a Persian word and Persians referred to the inhabitants of the land beyond river Sindhu by name Hindu.

Savarkar disagreed with the notion of outsiders labelling Hindus. He maintained that the inhabitants of the areas called themselves Hindu relating the word to Sindhu, the rivers and seas that encircled their land.

The term Hindu is the Prakrit pronunciation of the Sanskrit word Sindhu. Common people in ancient India used the Prakrit language for communication.

Only educated persons used the Sanskrit language. Even now in some Prakrit expressions, S is pronounced H. Common examples are Keshari to Kehari used for a lion, Saptah to Hapta for a week. Old Prakrit language has evolved into modern regional languages of India.

This identity of Hindus was further spread by residents of neighbouring countries, local and foreign traders and visitors.

The land became known as Hind, Hindustan, Bharat or India.

Their religion Sanatan Dharma became popular as Hinduism, the religion of Hindus. Savarkar offered various examples of use of these words in written texts by numerous ancient and medieval writers, poets, and political and social leaders.

Savarkar formulated the concept of Hindutva in the prevailing national and international contexts that contained certain elements: The first element of the Hindutva is geography. Since the Vedic period, India has distinct geography, physically bounded by seas, rivers and mountains.

Its inhabitants regarded the land as their fatherland or the land of ancestors and Punyabhumi or the holy land.

The second element is the population with a common bond of blood. The Indian population has been inter-mixing from ancient times. Indian literature contains numerous stories that describe the union of males and females of different Varna or social statuses.

Anulom and Pratilom marriages were not uncommon.

Anulom refers to a male marrying a female of lower social status and Pratilom denotes a female marrying a male of lower social status.

A large number of modern castes demonstrate the existence of common blood. It also applies to mixing and conversion of people from one to another religious beliefs. Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs and Hindus have been doing so since their beginnings.

The third element is the common culture or Sanskriti. It relates to the Sanskrit language, which has been the means of expression and preservation of all that was the best and worth preserving in the history of the inhabitants. It includes common laws and rites for inhabitants of the land. In the long term, it is identified as civilisation of the people.

Savarkar regarded all inhabitants of India, who followed religions that originated in India, as Hindu. He assumed that they had common blood and common culture and they accepted India as their fatherland and holy land. He expressed concerns about some followers of imported religions.

Events of his time had made him believe their loyalty to India divided and not unconditional.

His doctrine of Hindutva

deals with social and political matters. Originally, the Rastriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) had adopted the Hindutva theory to empower the Hindu community in India. Subsequently, it had modified to make it relevant for all sections of Indian society.

A number of people in India and abroad consider Hindutva to have a sectarian agenda, relating it to the Hindu religion.

Political parties criticise RSS and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for their support of the Hindutva philosophy. BJP is a national political party with policies on many social and national issues aligned with that of RSS. India has made notable progress in many spheres of life during the BJP rule in recent years.

Achievements made by the BJP led government in India have made Hindutva an international topic of discussion.

Conferences such as ‘Dismantling Global Hindutva’ and ‘Hindutva for Global Good’ have been held recently in the USA with the support and collaboration of a number of overseas universities and educational institutions.

Foreign opponents of Hindutva try to emphasise divisions in the Indian society, especially on the basis of religion. Religious differences between Hindus and Muslims had been used as a source of conflict in the past. Groups with vested interests try to activate religious sentiments with intention to achieve their own objectives.

National opponents of Hindutva use it for their political gain in the country. Sometimes, they play into the hands of foreigners who use them as a tool to serve their interests.

Proponents of Hindutva relate it to economic, cultural and social development of India.

Hindutva promotes national cohesion, uniformity in social thinking, patriotism and cultural development.

Statements of the RSS chief summarise the arguments of the proponents of Hindutva.

He recently said that Hindus and Muslims were not different and they are descendants of the same ancestors. According to him, Hindutva is a common denominator for all Indians and not related just to a single caste, sect, or identity. RSS considers that the word Hindu expresses Indian identity along with the continuity of its spiritualitybased traditions and its entire wealth of value system of the country.

It assets that Hindu is the word applicable to all people of India who call themselves Indian. Hindu is not the name of some sect or denomination.

It is not a provincial concept, and it is neither a single caste’s lineage nor the privilege of the speakers of a specific language. It is that psychological common denominator whose vast courtyard cradled human civilisation that honours and encompasses innumerable distinct identities.

The three elements of Savarkar’s Hindutva remain valid for India as well as for other modern nations. Close scrutiny of the system of governance of developed nations confirmed their validity.

—Awadhesh Sharma

Kavita ji

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 25

To what is grace, movement or activity due?

The content of this article is taken from the satsang of H.H. Sant Shri Asaram 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. Unhappy over the religious conversion happening in India, Pujya Bapu Ji tried to find out the reasons for people for the conversion. It was revealed that poor tribals are given the lure of money and they are converted. To stop the conversion of the tribals on the borders of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and areas of Orissa, Pujya Bapu Ji started “Bhjn kro bhojn kro or dakshina lo“program. Under this program the poor tribals are called into the nearby ashrams and asked to chant ‘Hari Om’ the whole day. They are given food twice during the day and at the end of the day they are given Rs 100 per day, so they feel like they are doing some work. They were issued ration cards by the ashrams and are given free grains and other necessities every month. This scheme to stop conversion is in practice from the last around 2 decades.

To save the youth who are being ruined due to the lustful festivals like valentine’s day, in 2006 Pujya Bapu Ji initiated celebrations of Matri-Pitri 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 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 2013, he initiated celebration of Tulsi poojan on 25th December.

What is grace, movement and activity"? What is that?

Is that due to the eyes, the ears, or the nose? No, that appears in the eyes, the ears, etc. Grace comes from the Divinity within you and from nothing else. It is activity. And to what is activity, energy, or motion due? Just see. You can walk uphill; you can ascend steep mountains. You can go from place to place, you can move anywhere you like, but when the body dies, what becomes of it? When the body dies; that activity, that God within you that could lift you up to such heights, does not help in the same way as it did before. Who is it then within this body that makes the muscles move, that makes the hair grow, that makes the blood circulate in your blood vessels? What is it? What is it that gives all the movement, energy, activity to the organs of the body? What is it? It is the one Universal Power, the one Universal Divinity, the one Universal God which you

are in reality, it is the Atman.

When a man dies, some men have to carry him to the cemetery or crematorium; and when he was alive, what was it that lifted his heavy weight of so many pounds to such heights, to such mountains? It is something invisible, indescribable, but it is there. That is the Divinity within you, that is the God in every body, and it is that God who gives activity and power to everything; it is that God to whom is due the grace in the movements of every person When a man is asleep, his eyes do not see; when he is asleep, his ears do not hear. When a man is dead, his eyes are there, but he does not see; his cars are there, but he does not hear.

Why? Because that Divinity or Atman within does not help in the way it did before.

It is the God within that secs through the eyes; it is the God within that makes the ears hear; it is the God within that makes the nose smell; and it is the God within that gives energy to the muscles.

It is the God within that is the essence, or the quintessence of all the apparent grace. It is the God within. Remember that. Mark that.

Who it is that faces you, who it is that looks you straight in the face when you look at a person? It is God within. The outward eyes, skin, ears, etc., are only the instruments; they are only the outward Raiment, nothing else.

Now when the people in this world love, and desire objects, they begin to love the dress, the raiment more than the Sachchidananda (Truth absolute, Consciousness absolute, Bliss absolute), which shines through that dress or raiment. Thus, they idolize and worship the raiment or the image more than the Sachchidananda, the Reality, the Original, the Truth within. Thus, it is that people suffer the bad consequences of this error.

This it is. Rise above it; rise above it. Let every wife and every husband try to see the God in each other. See the God within; worship the God within.

Everything should become Divine to you. Instead of the wife being a wide gaping door to hell, should be, as it were, the mirror through which the husband could see God. The husband should be the mirror in which the wife could see God, instead of being the wide gaping door to hell.

Inspiring life story and words of Saint Gavaribai A baby girl, later named Gavari, was born in Vikrama Samvat 1815 at Dungarpur village (ancient name Giripur), Rajasthan. She was married off at 5-6 years of age. After just one year of marriage, her husband died. A short while after, her mother and then her father also passed away.

Gavaribai experienced personally the transitoriness of worldly relations. She started feeling the world to be insipid. She considered only Lord Krishna as her everything.

She would study the Gita. Ramayana, Upanishads and other scriptures. Her devotional songs, stemming from her devotion to God, would fill people with the memory of God. Gavaribai's poems on Lord Krishna are drenched in conjugal Love and pangs of separation, like the poems of Saint Mirabai.

Gavaribai's fortune took a most favourable turn when she took refuge in a Brahmanishtha, Selfrealized great man. Her Guru imparted instructions on the knowledge of Brahman and philosophy of Yoga.

Guru's words penetrated deeply in Gavaribai's mature heart, endowed with indifference towards the world and dispassion towards sense-enjoyments.

She would become overwhelmed with reverence while listening to her Guru and remained engrossed in that bhava for hours. She said: "What else is there to speak about, but God's Name, what else is there to hear but God's pastimes.

Ocean of bliss awaits the Renunciate, Why then swim in the waters of a well?

Everywhere I see, is my God, Why then to open eyes to the world.

The soul is unbroken, immovable - intact When there is no birth, where is death?

Gavari now knows Brahman is omnipresent, why reveal this secret to everyone?"

Gavaribai says, describing the glory of Guru: "Clouds of knowledge thicken in the sky, through my Guru's grace I have realized Shabda Brahman (Brahman in the form of sound, Omkara)."

The grace of Guru, so showered on Gavaribai that her Krishna was no longer confined to the idol of Lord Krishna, Guru's grace tore apart her veil of ignorance and she began to behold God in every being. She says: "The Master of the entire Universe is all-pervading Hari alone.

He alone pervades the fourteen worlds within and without. He alone is the luminance of the moon, the radiance of the Sun. All ten quarters seem forlorn without worshipping such Hari. O God! You don't have definite form, colour, or appearance. You are Omkar personified, you are the formless. You are neither Maya, nor Karma.' Gavaribai writes that she has attained the Light of Knowledge through the teachings of her Guru. The darkness of ignorance has been dispelled by that Light.

The glimpse of the Knowledge Gavaribai

Karwa Chauth celebrated in Northgate Karwa Chauth 2021 was celebrated with full spirit and fervour in north Brisbane for the consecutive 5th year. Because of the growing enthusiasm of ladies to celebrate the most important event in a group, this year, the event was celebrated in Northgate Hall, Northgate.

The organizers Ashok & Anu Attri did an excellent job in organising this free event to make sure that all the guests enjoy to their greatest pleasure. The event got huge appreciation from all the participants. The main attractions of the event were mehndi booth, photo booth, ornaments stall, kids’ corner and a quiz. The ladies were seen queued up at photo booth. The organizers thanked all the guests for their endeavours and participation to bring India’s cultural legacy to its full glory.

Karwa Chauth – is a huge event celebrated mainly in North India by Hindu women. The states that traditionally observe this festival are Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. This is a festival

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

where married women observe a fast on the fourth day after Purnima in the month of Kartika. The married women observe fast from sunrise to moonrise for the safety and longevity of their husbands. When the moon is sighted, Hindu married women conclude their fast by looking at their husband's face through a sieve The day coincides with Sankashti Chaturthi, a fasting day observed for Lord Ganesha.

The organizers Ashok & Anu Attri did an excellent job in organising this free event to make sure that all the guests enjoy to their greatest pleasure. The event got huge appreciation from all the participants.

received from her Guru is overflowing in her poems: "Without Self-knowledge there's no happiness for the creature, without self-knowledge there is no repose for the mind, without self-inquiry one does not get liberation.

Without Self-knowledge, one may a take holy bath in 68 pilgrim centres, one attains freedom from neither lust nor liberation.

Without Self-realization, one may renounce home for forest, one may live on fallen fruit and leaves, but can't attain liberation.

Without Self-knowledge, the Yogi advances in old age.

Without Self-knowledge one may meditate sitting in the midst of five fires (fires kindled in the four cardinal directions, the fifth is the sun), With meditation and Self-knowledge you serve the antaryamin, Gavari attained Supreme Brahman through love for God." 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 regular 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 For more info about events like Tulsin Poojan, Matri Pitri Poojan Diwas, Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions or to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine RishiPrasad 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 Brisbane Indian Times.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 27

Who, What, Where, When...

A very successful Indian Cultural Expo held at Calamvale Hotel, Usha Chandra as guest of honour inaugurated the expo.

Hindu Lives matter, peaceful protest in King George Square organised by Bangladeshi Association

VIP reception at citizenship ceremony organised by Brisbane City Council and held at Brisbane Convention and entertainment centre, Lord mayor gets a chance to chat with one of the representative family who became citizens on that night.

Academy Alive – took part in the National Mosque open day whereby a number of Mosques around the country opened their doors to wider community

Official party on the stage at the first HOTA Diwali in Gold Coast

The open-air seating area at HOTA Diwali 28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

The beautiful concept of Mor ( Peacock national bird of India) to Mermaid depicting the passing of the light from Mor to Mermaid thus raising cultural awareness on the occasion of Diwali

Who, What, Where, When...

xxxxx From left Tanvi Goel, Asti Mardiasmo, Usha Chandra, Prerna Pahwa, Sudha Manian at Superhero’s without Capes an event by Simply Human

“Yatra” performing at Simply Human Function

Pinky Singh second from Left joins Usha Chandra and Sudha Manian

Councillor Kim Marx a great supporter of Indian Senior Citizen Association

James Martin MP ready to cut the cake at Indian Seniors – seniors week celebration in Runcorn.

Ando who might that be, fun time at Indian Seniors function – good to see the culture being kept alive.

From Left – Shabnam Abdul, Usha Chandra, Nina Shrinner – Lady Mayoress, Shilpa Aswal, Pravinita Singh Pillay and Irene Bayldon Call: (07) 3192 5188

James Martin MP – emotionally Remembered late Duncan Pegg Mp at ISCA function.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner – centre with the two award winners at Lord Mayor Multicultural Business awards in City Hall

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 29

Arya Samaj Queensland

The Identity of Arya Samaj

Jitendra Deo President ASQ

Identity is the very essence of the being of something in existence. The name - word of the thing or person or community is the language correspondence of that identity. If the thing is lost, the identity is lost. And if the identity is lost, the thing itself too is lost. A character in Shakespeare says: If some one steals my purse or my property, he steals nothing and I lose nothing. But if some one steals away my name, he robs me of something which enriches him not but makes me poor indeed therefore when we pray we self-

examine what we have lost and what we have gained. If the balance sheet is positive, we are alive, if not, we are on oxygen.

What is the reality correspondence of Arya Samaj? What did the founder expect of the Arya Samaj in thought, word and deed, in terms of the individual, the society, the nation, and humanity?

Swami Dayananda in his writings writes Vedic Sanskrit through, the medium of Hindi which he called Arya Bhasha.

The term Arya Samaj consists of two words: Arya and Samaj.

What does he means

by Arya? Not a race, not member of a caste or class, but a person, any person, of highest nature (shreshtha), character and conduct, religiously piousr, dedicated to dharma, seriously motivated and dedicated positively, a pursuant of truth and knowledge, honest in thought, word and deed. People of this nature, character and conduct are, in Vedic terms, inheritors of the earth because they sustain

the life and environment on earth. Parameshwar says in Rigveda 4.26.2: I gave (gifted) the earth to the "Aryas" noble cultured humanity, I bring the rain, flowing rivers, rolling oceans and showers of light and energy for people who give in charity, and in consequence, saints, divines and sagely

people who live and love to give are blest with the light divine.

Such dedicated people anywhere on earth from any community are dedicated to the progress of knowledge, righteousness, peace and happiness of the world.

They are knowledgeable, self-fulfilled, divinely blest,

because they live Dharma, truth and universal values o life.

Say Rigveda (9.63.5): Indram vardhanto apturah, Krinvanto Vishvam Aryam..

They (Aryas, Somas) advance fast and vibrant at top speed, glorifying life and the Creator, making the world noble, reducing and

eliminating the causes of suffering, forces, of negativity, uncreativity, selfishness, exploitation, fear and terror.

Such are the Aryas: dynamic, enlightened, creative, constructive, in the direction of positive progress, peace and happiness of all (niyam 6 & 9).

The meaning the word Samaj is 'a united, integrated, harmonious, living and vibrant community, it self moving and moving and advancing all others to a life of peace and comprehensive all round progress, physically, mentally, culturally and spiritually, for the individual and society as a whole.'

The ideal of such a creative advancing community is revealed in the Sangathan Sukta of Rigveda (10.191). 2 Adapted from article by - Dr. Tulsi Ram Sharma 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

Death should not be the cost of Doing business

GIRI SIVARAMAN FIVE years ago, Manmeet Alisher was horrifically murdered whilst driving a bus for Brisbane City Council in Moorooka.

It was a shocking incident that resonated through the bus driving community, the Indian community and the Broader Queensland community. A memorial was held at Luxworth Place on 28 October.

No one should ever die at work and no one should ever risk their life by going to work. As at October 14,102 workers had been killed at work in Australia this year. The most deaths occur in transport, postal and warehousing, which includes the industry in which Manmeet worked.

Many more people are

No one should ever die at work and no one should ever risk their life by going to work. As at October 14,102 workers had been killed at work in Australia this year. The most deaths occur in transport, postal and warehousing, which includes the industry in which Manmeet worked. seriously injured at work, some unable to ever work again.

I know from 20 years working in a plaintiff law firm that anyone can be injured at work, in any type of industry. Though as evidence given at a commonwealth Senate inquiry into job security this month showed, it is often the case that migrant workers end up facing particularly poor conditions. One reason

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

is that because of their temporary visa status they are afraid to challenge their employers.

Other reasons are that English may not be their first language or they may be unaware of their rights. Many migrants end up as so-called independent contractors for juggernauts such as Uber Eats or Amazon, with huge pressures to make deliveries, payments as low as $8 a trip and no

workers ‘compensation insurance from the head company. Last year five food delivery riders died within two months.

Four years ago, the state government passed industrial manslaughter laws that make the death of workers at work a crime where the employer is reckless or negligent. That type of legislative change is one way to bring about safer workplaces.

Another change would be laws that give employment status to gig economy workers.

Clearly, we need to do more to ensure that death or serious injury at work is not just a cost of doing business.

GIRI S1VARAMAN IS A PRINCIPAL WITH MAURICE BLACKBURN LAWYERS IN BRISBANE.

Australian IndiaN Radio Interviews Exclusive interviews and live shows on Australian Indian Radio Facebook page with Mr. Umesh Chandra OAM 4 Batein Madhu Ke Saath an exclusive show on Australian Indian Radio - Madhu Khanna in conversation with Dr. Deepti Dialani. Listen to Madhu Khanna Tuesday & Thursday 6:00pm AEST. 4 Music Junction: "Navratri Special" featured Navratri songs sung by Usha Chivukala and Anvi Vaidya.

4 New live program “Know your rights” on Australian Indian Radio Facebook page with Giri Sivaraman Principal at Maurice Blackburn Lawyers.

First show was about covid vaccinations and employment. (USE FLYER ONLY)

4 Banyo Diwali talk with Reg Neil BDCG Inc President

If you would like to host a program on Australian Indian Radio please write us at air@indianradio.net.au.

Usha Chivukala and Anvi Vaidya featured in October episode of Music Junction – “Navratri Special

BRISBANE, Australian Indian Radio hosts a popular monthly Facebook live show “Music Junction”. This month the show themed “Navratri Special” was presented by lovely RJ Savi and featured Usha Chivukala and Anvi Vaidya.

Usha Chivukala is an established singer based in Brisbane.

She has been performed in many prestigious and significant events, A respected name within the musical circle.

She had been featured in Music Junction June episode where audiences liked her live performance.

Once again, she mesmerised the Call: (07) 3192 5188

listeners and received a lot of comments online, via text, email and on Australian Indian Radio Facebook page.

In this episode of “Navratri Special” Usha Chivukala was accompanied by Anvi Vaidya, another a talented local artist.

Navratri special episode was hosted by a female presenter and singers were both females, the background dancers featured were all female crew. This show was dedicated to the women empowerment as Navratri is a celebration of Maa Durga, who depicts “Shakti”-power The show received very favourable reviews and

was appreciated by over thousands of viewers at the time of publication.

All episodes can be viewed on either Australian Indian Radio’s Facebook page or YouTube channel.

Australian Indian Radio invites all budding and established artists to be on the show, either with backing tracks with live musicians, it is a wonderful platform to showcase your talent to the entire world wide audience, if you are interested please contact us to take it further, Music junction is presented on the last Sunday of the month from 6:00 PM Brisbane Australia time.

Aap Ki Sehat – Your health November episode features Giri Sivaraman BRISBANE, the November episode we had the pleasure of talking to Giri Sivaraman on the series "Aap Ki Sehat”, meaning Your HEALTH Program, initiated by IMA, QLD, Australia.

Giri leads the employment law team for the Maurice Blackburn Lawyers in Brisbane. He has been recognised as a preeminent lawyer for employees in Queensland by Doyle's Guide for the last 4 years. He has represented doctors in variety of employment and disciplinary issues.

Maurice Blackburn is a leading personal injury law firm in Queensland representing injured workers and victims of road accidents. They work closely with GPs to ensure the best outcomes for patients who are the victims of accidents.

In this session Giri had answered some interesting and common questions that is every employers and employees asking nowadays for example about laws at the state or federal level that mandate the vaccine, circumstances where employer can ask employee to get vaccinated and about employer require employee to undertake COVID rapid test at work under the

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Giri Sivaraman

supervision of a registered GP doctor.

He had discussed if a worker contracted COVID in a work context would they be able to make a worker’s compensation claim. This episode was very informative regarding the

current situation.

Aap Ki Sehat features on the face book live channel of Australian Indian Radio on the first Saturday of every month and on audio only version on Australian Indian Radio on the first Sunday of every month at 10:00AM.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 31

The status of parents in Islam Compiled by Imam M.Aslam All praise be to Allah Ta’aala, the cherisher and sustainer of the world and peace and blessing be upon the final prophet, Muhammad Salalahu Alayhi Wasalam.

All religions and all societies have given parents an honorable status. From a purely material viewpoint, we find ourselves indebted to our parents, particularly our mother. She not only nourished us in her womb, but went through pain and suffering. She loved us even before we were born. She toiled when we were totally helpless infants. She spent sleepless nights caring for us. Our parents as a team provided for all our needs: physical, educational, psychological, and in many instances, religious, moral, and spiritual.

Our indebtedness to our parents is so immense that it is not possible to repay it fully. In lieu of this, it becomes obligatory for us to show the utmost kindness, respect, and obedience to our parents.

The position of parents, and the mutual obligations and responsibilities, have been addressed in Islam in great detail. The Qur'anic commandments, as well as the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) guide us in this matter. The parentchild code of behavior in Islam is unique, since rules were laid down by divine

command.

References to parents have been made at least 15 times in the Holy Qur'an. There are numerous traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) on this subject. I will first quote some of the Qur'anic verses here: "And We have enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents. In travail upon travail did his mother bear him, and in two years was his weaning.

Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents; to Me is thy final goal." (Quran 31:14) According to the above verse, gratitude to God and to parents go hand in hand.

Gratitude to God is incomplete without showing gratitude to one's parents. Since being grateful to God is a form of ibadah (worship) which earns heavenly rewards, it can therefore be said that being grateful to one's parents also earns heavenly rewards.

"Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents.

Whether one or more attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honor. And out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say, "my Lord! bestow on them Thy Mercy, even as they cherished me in childhood." (Quran 17: 23-24) "We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents; in pain did his mother bear him, and in pain did she give him

We hope and pray that all of us will respect our parents while they are alive and after their death. One can honour his parents after their death through the following methods: 1. Performing daily Du'aa' (supplication) for them.

2. Giving charity on their behalf.

3. Instituting a perpetual charity on their behalf for the benefit of humanity.

4. Performing Hajj on their behalf, or asking someone to do so if they were obliged to do and they couldn’t.

Let us pray to Allah that we do our best to respect our parents, honour them, be kind to them, assist them, and please them so that we may attain the love of Allah.

O Allah! Accept our humble prayers and make us obedient slaves to You. O Allah! Help us to be respectful children to our parents. Aameen. birth." (Quran 46:15) Thus, God has enjoined on us to show kindness, respect, and humility to our parents.

We are commanded to do this.

Some of the traditions of Prophet Muhammad,sallallahu alahi wasallaum and of the learned members of his family, about our responsibilities toward our parents are quoted here: "Paradise lies under the feet of the mother."

"God's pleasure is in the pleasure of the father, and God's displeasure is in the displeasure of the father."

"He who wishes to enter Paradise through its best door must please his parents."

"It is a pity that some people may not attain Paradise, on account of not serving their old parents."

"If a person looks with love at his parents, God writes in

his favor the reward equal to the performance of one Hajj."

[Someone asked, "will this promise be good if one looks at his parents one hundred times a day?" The Holy Prophet (pbuh) replied, "even if one does so a hundred thousand times a day, God gives the reward accordingly."]

"A man or woman is bound to be good to his or her parents, even though they may have injured him or her."

It is also mentionedthat Allah Ta ala said. I am pleased with those with whom their parents are pleased, and I am displeased with those with whom their parents are displeased."

'Ali ibn al-Husain May Allah Ta ala be pleased with them said: "The right of your mother on you is that you should know that nobody could endure the trouble

and the conditions under which she protected you and nourished you with the juice of her life, and tried with her heart and soul to satisfy all your needs in relation to hunger, thirst, dress, etc.

She passed sleepless nights, suffering anxieties.

She provided you with shelter against heat and cold, and protected you from ailments.

It is not possible for you to compensate her, or thank her enough for all the services, except that God may give you guidance for that. The right of your father on you is that you should know that it is he who brought you into existence, and you are a branch of the tree of his life."

According to a reliable tradition, it is related that a man came to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and asked him to whom

he should render kindness.

The prophet told him to be kind to his mother. Three times he put the same question to the prophet, and three times he got the same answer. When he asked the question the fourth time, he was told to be kind to his father, indicating that the mother's right took precedence over that of the father.

Parents' duties: Islam has assigned certain duties to parents that they must fulfill.

If they fail in those, they will be questioned about it.

Besides providing the basic necessities of life, Islam requires that the parents teach their children about the Tauheed of God, the Quranic commandments, values, the Prophets and their teachings, and the moral code of Islam as according to the Quran and the Sunnah (teachings) of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Let us pray to God that He guide us to be respectful, kind, and obedient to our parents, and that we continue to show them humility regardless of the power, position, wealth, and influence we may possess.

Let us also pray that we be patient, kind, thoughtful, and friendly with our children, as we guide them through their lives, and that we discharge our responsibilities towards them as required by our religion, so that God may be pleased with us, and may He Bless and reward us, both in this world and in the Hereafter. Ameen

Fiji Day Celebrations- Deo Family Charitable Foundation The highly successful celebrations were held on October 10, 2021, at the Life and Legacy Church Hall. The event was to celebrate 51st Fiji Day since independence on 10th October 1970. One of our great founding fathers, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, who was Fiji’s first Prime Minister, received the instruments of Fiji’s Independence from Prince Charles, who represented Queen Elizabeth II. The event acknowledged and saluted all our past visionary Leaders who made this possible.

The event was graced

by Mr. James Martin MP Member for Stretton, Deputy Mayor of Logan City Council Councillor Jon Raven, Fiji’s Honorary Counsel in Queensland Mr. Hari Raniga, Fijian Community Leaders and members, President of Rotary Club of Brisbane International Ms Subhashni Singh, President of Damini Women’s Association Qld Mrs Lila Pratap and many community members and seniors.

The Republic of the Fiji Islands is a multicultural island nation with a blend of Melanesian, Polynesian & Micronesian backgrounds, and greatly influenced by vibrant

Indian, Chinese, European and other South Pacific cultures, particularly Rotuman and Tongan. The republic has 320 islands, with one hundred of these being inhabited.

Fiji is preparing to open up its international borders by the end of this year, and if you, your families and friends haven’t had the opportunity to taste the warmth of Fiji, you must make visiting Fiji a top bucket list item for 2022. This will not only lift the economy but also assist the people of Fiji, who have suffered a lot due to the extended Covid lockdowns.

Celebrations such as this brings the community together and enhances the social fabric of multiculturism.

The audience present were a testimony of multiculturalism, both Fiji and Australia enjoy, and symbolises the harmonious life we all lead.

The chairperson of Deo Family Charitable Foundation in his welcome address stated” being fourth generation IndoFijian, the opportunities in Fiji were numerous. The education system being of high standard with English as the medium of education catered well

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

for majority of people in Fiji. The beautiful island nation has offered us numerous opportunities to study and make our careers. Fiji has produced many doctors, lawyers, tradesman, teachers and engineers, many of whom have settled all over the globe.”

He further elaborated that despite leaving Fiji many years ago, most of us maintain our strong and active ties to Fiji, we still have the same love for our food, enjoy the music and follow the vibrant culture.

The event also provided an opportunity to taste some famous kava and blend of Fiji Indian traditional meals with

the delicious Fijian LOVO. The simplicity of Fijians is astounding, their welcoming Bula smile is world famous, and this is what makes the people of Fiji one of the friendliest people in the world.

The Fiji Day Celebrations reflected our togetherness, our love of culture and our love of food. We are a very resilient lot. It can be related to numerous occurrences where we have stood together in good and bad times, through sporting successes like winning medals at the Olympics to supporting one another during cyclones, devastating floods, and the pandemic.

The host for Fiji Day

Celebrations, Deo Family Charitable Foundation chairperson Jitendra Deo highlighted that the key objective of Deo Family Charitable Foundation is to “Celebrate Fiji and its People”.

As part of the objective, the Foundation which is a registered charity with ACNC, organised the Girmit Remembrance Day in May this year and then celebrating Fiji and its people and the visionary leaders of yester years.

The Deo Family Charitable Foundation has undertaken to fund selected programs related to the promotion of Fiji culture and both the Fijian and Hindi languages.

The regular Radio

program Mere Safar Ki Yaadein is a popular talk show where seniors in the Fijian community share their life’s journey and inspire us and the next generation. Coffee with JD is another initiative which helps raise the awareness on common health problems amongst the Fijian Diaspora and address the social issues faced by our people.

The host Deo Family Charitable Foundation Chairperson Jitendra Deo thanked all for accepting the invitation to celebrate this joyous occasion and all enjoyed the evening’s event, the cultural shows, and the traditional Fijian food.

The Chairperson of Deo Family Charitable Foundation thanked the Fijian High Commission in Canberra for the special messages to mark this important occasion from the Prime Minister of Fiji and from His Excellency, Fiji’s High Commissioner to Australia.

Special thanks to Mr Semi Meo for organising the messages through the Fijian High Commissioner.

The Deo Family Charitable Foundation is honoured to be host of such events and look forward for another year of celebrations next year.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 33

Another successful program at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir

BY Dhirubhai Desai Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir celebrated it’s Navaratri & Dussehra program from Friday the 7th to Friday the 15th of October this year. A very peaceful and devotional atmosphere was created everyday by some wonderful Bhajans and Kirtans. Mata ki Bhetein sung by our own Sonu Dhalla created magic and he took the atmosphere inside the temple to yet another level.

The nine-day Navaratri program included some Kirtans & Bhajans, Pravachan, Mata Ki Chawki - twice, Grand Kanchika Poojan and Garba. Maha Prasad in the form of dinner was provided every day.

Unfortunately, His Holiness Dharam Guru Pt. Tripathi Ji could not perform the Navratri Katha as it was planned. He had an open-

heart bypass surgery and was, and he still is recovering from it, but he is doing very well. In his absence Guru Mata Asha Tripathi Ji

conducted the program.

Despite feeling very weak and having a poor health condition, His Holiness Dharam Guru Pt. Tripathi

Ji came into the temple on three different days during this event, paid his respects to the deities and blessed all the devotees by lifting both of his

hands. These were three very special occasions. He has conveyed his Best Wishes, Blessings and Ashirvad to everyone.

Let us all prey for a very quick recovery of our Dharam Guru Pt. Tripathi Ji. God Bless You all and we shall see you at the temple.

Raste Alag Alag magar manzil to ek hai Multiple paths but common goal.

BRISBANE Sangeet Premi Club Inc (SPC) organised an Interfaith Music Festival on 9 October 2021 at Acacia Ridge State School auditorium. The main purpose of the music festival was to bring together

many forms of devotional music under one roof to pray together for well-being, happiness and peace for every individual, of every faith anywhere in the world.

Queensland Government

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

supported the music festival.

Australian National Radio and Brisbane Indian Times were the media partners.

Christian Hymns, Sikh Kirtan, Hindu Bhajan, Islamic devotional and

Sufi songs, Buddhist song, Qawwali and dances with Baul and Brahmoism songs were presented by local popular singers, musicians and religious groups.

Considering the current

distressing situation due to the corona pandemic, the music festival was more appropriate, appealing, peaceful and enjoyable.

SPC organises traditional and classical musical event

regularly and is seeking music lovers’ supports in future events so that the quality of the sub-continental music can be continued and enjoyed together in years ahead.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 35

Kamban Kazhagam Australia celebrates 15th Anniversary Kamban Kazhagam Australia is an awardwining Literary group based in Sydney, Australia.

Established in the year 2007, our mission statement is to promote the development of the three components of the Tamil language, which are Prose/Verse, Music and Theatricals. In Tamil, these are known as இயல் (I-yal), இைச (I-sai) and நாடகம் (Na-da-kam).

In October 2021, we continued with our pursuits hosting our highly successful annual Tamil Literary Festival, ‘Kamban Vizha 2021’. This year was particularly significant to us as it marked our 15th year of operation in Australia.

As always, the event featured learned Tamil orators from Australia and abroad but also gave the opportunity for up-andcoming Tamil Australian youth to sharpen and improve their public speaking skills with a segment of their own.

Keeping in line with covid safe protocols we have been conducting the festival, along with most our operations online but are pleased see the same level of enthusiasm and support from the Tamil community.

As a long-standing member of this organisation, it gives me great pleasure to have seen Kamban

Kazhagam Australia grow from strength to strength with each year. Our various initiatives now include: • ‘Vellum Sol’ - an impromptu speech competition. In 2020 we successfully converted this event to the online format and have had youth participating from across Australia and international Tamil judges.

• ‘Naanalam’ – an event organised in 2016 for the purposes of hosting the finals of ‘Vellum Sol.’ In recent times it has been used a platform to provide further opportunities for the Tamil youth to explore their public speaking skills. This event was most recently held on 9 October 2021, with global audiences tuning in to share their support.

• ‘Gnana Velvi’ – held since 2013, renowned Tamil orators explore not only the poet Kamban but many others, including Thiruvalluvar, Subramania Bharathy as well as the stories and works of Hindu saints.

• ‘Munthu Tamil’ – since January 2021, in tandem with our mother organisation, Ilangai Kamban Kazhagam we have hosted monthly debates and discussion forums with famous speakers from all around the world exploring

various literary texts.

• ‘Kalai Theri Arangam’the brainchild of our Youth Wing, this segment was developed in 2016 as part of Kamban Vizha to retell portions of the Kamba Ramayanam in an atypical format combining elements of music, drama, dance and prose!

• Online Debating Workshop – this year we also held our very first debating workshop. The aim of the workshop was to provide a structured and practical toolkit to students of Tamil to practice and prepare for literary debates.

In addition, since 2013 we have also conducted free Kamban Classes for seniors, intermediate level learners and children. For students who have completed their Tamil HSC this is the main

forum for them to develop and practice their language skills.

At Kamban Kazhagam Australia, we acknowledge that our community is at the core of our operations.

Therefore, in addition to our efforts to propagate the Tamil language, we have also sought to give back to our local community and have a social impact. We have participated in Clean Up Australia Day since 2016.

Further, Following the black summer in 2020, we also organised ‘Amirthavarshini,’ a fundraising event bringing together more than 35 Tamil organisations for a common cause. This was our unique approach that hasn't been done before. We donated $15K to the NSW Fire Brigade.

The Tamil Language,

culture and community have found a home at Kamban Kazhagam Australia, and we are forever grateful for the unwavering support from the Australian community in supporting our efforts. As we set forth into the next year of operations, we trust the passion for the Tamil

language that we have ignited with each of our events will continue to shine brightly to the illuminate the future for Tamil generations to come!

Poorvaja Nirmaleswaran Vice President, Kamban Kazhagam Australia Inc.

Once Upon A Time in Bombay –

UQISC, CSIQ, CSIG, & BUIA (BALL) BRISBANE For the first time in history, Indian Students of four mighty universities came together under a roof to present the greatest Indian ball, Brisbane city had ever witnessed. UQISC, CSIQ, CSIG and BUIA joined hands and presented 'Once Upon a Time in Bombay' the biggest student’s event of 2021.

The event was organised on 31st October at Brisbane City Hall from 6pm till late midnight.

It showcased many talented student’s performances from all over the India. This was originally planned for the 1st October at Greek Club South Brisbane but due to covid19 restriction the event was rescheduled for 31st October in the city hall.

Guests were welcomed by the president and organizers of the event. Ms Neha performed a few melodious Bollywood songs.

The dinner was served around 7:10pm onwards.

A well organised event with full two course Indian cuisine and it was a completely sold out event.

There were 51 tables and 510 people in attendance.

One must say that Once upon a time in Bombay

was a high energy function with two DJs (DJ Uri and DJ Jesta) and a team of four photographers and videographers.

The main highlight of the events was when there was a healthy tiff between bhangra lovers and lungi dance lovers. Desi boys hit the floor around 8:20pm and transported every audiences to the Bombay. The tapori squad performed afterword it had took the spectators to the next level. This show was getting more interesting as the performers started playing one after another.

The next was Gaana pasanga which was followed by DJs

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

and Dance off.

Epicure Staff told Brisbane Indian Times, that they were impressed by the energy in the room with this event, they said that they see events every day, but these students had different kind energy that flowed through.

For a function organised by student it well managed and run. A cash bar was available on arrival in the foyer and the bar tab was opened after the dinner service.

Full Indian cuisine was served, the mains had; Lamb Rogan Josh, Butter Chicken, Paneer Tikka Masala served with rice and Naan.

Dessert had Gulab Jamun served with Cardamom rice pudding, Grinders organic fair-trade coffee and Madame Flavour tea

selection Aman Chaudhari, a Representative Host & Event Organizer thanked everyone the sponsors, guests, and

performers.

Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio proudly supported this event.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 37

BANYO DIWALI SHIFTED TO EARNSHAW STATE COLLEGE

BANYO, Saturday 30 October, Banyo Diwali planned to take place in The Banyo Beehive Stand, 284 St Vincent’s Road, Banyo had to be shifted to Earnshaw State College because of the severe weather forecast.

The organisers did not want to take chances so at the

last minute, on the day the decision was taken to shift indoors to the school hall.

Reg Neil of Banyo District Community Group said the decision had to taken as there was far too much at stake otherwise. It was the right decision the indoor venue proved to just right

for the event, everyone was under cover and comfortably enjoyed the show.

The stage had to be set rather quickly, and Amarjot Goraya as MC had to make do with whatever was set on the stage swiftly, she improvised rather well.

It was good to see the

enactment of few scene from Ramayana, for many organisers forget this important aspect of Diwali.

Globenet Realty once again sponsored the jumping Castle.

The stage items included Gidda, Bhangra, and Bollywood dances. It was a

fun filled family atmosphere.

A successful event with the quick change of venue it still went ahead will full flavour. It is good to see that everyone worked together in time of need and assisted with the change of venue, special thanks to Earnshaw State school for coming to

the rescue, how conveniently located.

The event is organised by Banyo District Community Group,The purpose of BDCG Inc is to foster community cohesion by embracing cultural inclusion and conducting diverse social and cultural activities.

BAPS Diwali & Annakut Function 2021 at Queensland Parliament House

BRISBANE For the first time in history, Indian Students of four mighty universities came together under a roof to present the greatest Indian ball, Brisbane city had ever witnessed.

UQISC, CSIQ, CSIG and BUIA joined hands and presented 'Once Upon a Time in Bombay' the biggest student’s event of 2021.

The event was organised on 31st October at Brisbane City Hall from 6pm till late midnight.

It showcased many talented student’s performances from all over the India. This was originally planned for the 1st October at Greek Club South Brisbane but due to covid19 restriction

the event was rescheduled for 31st October in the city hall.

Guests were welcomed by the president and organizers of the event. Ms Neha performed a few melodious Bollywood songs.

The dinner was served around 7:10pm onwards. A well organised event with full two course Indian cuisine and it was a completely sold out event. There were 51 tables and 510 people in attendance. One must say that Once upon a time in Bombay was a high energy function with two DJs (DJ Uri and DJ Jesta) and a team of four photographers and

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

videographers.

The main highlight of the events was when there was a healthy tiff between

bhangra lovers and lungi dance lovers. Desi boys hit the floor around 8:20pm and transported every audiences

to the Bombay. The tapori squad performed afterword it had took the spectators to the next level. This show was getting more interesting as the performers started playing one after another.

The next was Gaana pasanga which was followed by DJs and Dance off.

Epicure Staff told Brisbane Indian Times, that they were impressed by the energy in the room with this event, they said that they see events every day, but these students had different kind energy that flowed through.

For a function organised by student it well managed and run. A cash bar was available

on arrival in the foyer and the bar tab was opened after the dinner service.

Full Indian cuisine was served, the mains had; Lamb Rogan Josh, Butter Chicken, Paneer Tikka Masala served with rice and Naan. Dessert had Gulab Jamun served with Cardamom rice pudding, Grinders organic fair-trade coffee and Madame Flavour tea selection Aman Chaudhari, a Representative Host & Event Organizer thanked everyone the sponsors, guests, and performers.

Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio proudly supported this event.

DIWALI IN DREAMWORLD, A DREAM COME TRUE FOR INDIAN COMMUNITY

GOLD COAST, Indian Community of Gold Coast (ICGC) created history by celebrating Diwali at Dreamworld. Mrs Archana Singh, Honorary Consul of India in Queensland, was the guest of honour at this historic moment, she cut the ribbon to officially open the event.

The event was witnessed by more than 5000 people at a same time inside the theme park, program included unlimited rides, food, performances, live Bollywood music, fireworks, laser show and much more for every age groups. Every family had very good time. It was a Diwali

Mela in its true sense and felt like in India.

ICGC (Indian Community of Gold Coast) was founded in 2018 as a not for profit organisation.

ICGC seeks to bring different groups of Indian and Australian communities on the Gold Coast and surrounds together to showcase Indian culture.

One of the ways to do this is to host well run professional events.

ICGC wants to improve the engagement of people of Indian origin in the Australian community and help them adapt to this new land they now proudly call home.

Tamil Association of Queensland Deepavali 2021 DURACK, Tamil Association of Queensland held their Deepavali – Festival of Lights celebration at Australian International Islamic College situated at 724 Blunder Road, Durack. Tamil Association of Queensland is well known for presenting high standard events. Quite a year year back the event used to be held at The coffee Club Auditorium, RNA show grounds in Bowen Hills, that beautiful venue is long gone and has made way for stylish inner city living apartments.

This years Deepavali celebration was held on 6th November to a capacity crowd, the hall at Australian International Islamic College is not a

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small hall and it was full.

It was pleasing to note that Deepavali was being

celebrated in an Islamic College Hall, and guests of honour included members

of the wider community, this is a true demonstration of Multiculturalism in

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action. It was wonderful to hear Grand Mufti Imam Abdul Quddoos Al Azhari address the gathering in Tamil and English.

The show began with the grand entry by Chanda Malam drummers and included a variety of talented artists. The young truly ruled the stage with delightful and well-choregraphed performances, these budding artists will go a long way and in coming years we will have abundance of talent in Brisbane, special thanks to the teachers and parents of these young ones, well done.

Speakers for the night included, Councillor Charles Strunck, Peter Russo MP, Jessica Pugh

MP, Maree AdsheadQueensland small business Commissioner, Shyam Das – FICQ President, Grand Mufti Imam Abdul Quddoos Al Azhari and others. It was a good mix of speeches, performances, raffles and dinner.

Tamil Association of Queensland Inc. has been serving the community since 1986. It is a not for profit organisation that represents Tamilians from Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, Fiji and other countries and their objective is to develop social, cultural, sporting, educational, Welfare and services to the Tamils arid and the general community members of Queensland.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 39

SIP and PAINT for your mind & soul BRISBANE 'Talk About It', is an initiative run by Arpit Singh aimed towards encouraging people to talk about the importance of mental health and mental health issues, and removing the stigma attached to it.

On the 13th of October, the initiative organised an event called 'Sip n' Paint...for your mind & soul', which was attended by people from all age groups.

The event unfolded with a brief guided session of Transcendental Meditation, followed by a good 2 hours of painting where the attendees were guided stepby-step with instructions to complete the painting, allowing enough time for everyone to mingle, socialise, have the delicious platter and drinks and just have a good laugh together.

For many, it was their first time trying their hand at painting and everyone expressed their joy of immersing in the world of colours after a hectic work day and many said

they had forgotten about all their worries while they were painting, and that the meditation at the beginning played a very important

part in calming their mind & body and preparing them for the fun painting session ahead.

Mr. Vikas Sinha (founder

& director of Finance Point Australia) shared his experience of Vipasana Meditation course where for 10 days the participant must

live without uttering a single word from their mouth. He believes it changed his way of thinking and perspective towards life.

Mr. Umesh Chandra (director at Australian Indian Radio & Brisbane Indian Times) shared how a day in his life looks like and the attitude that one needs to have in order to dedicate their life for the community.

His moto is same as Nike's Just Do It!.

Dr. Asti Mardiasmo (Chief Economist at PRD Real Estate) shared her ways of dealing with daily stresses of life, and emphasised on the importance of finding your pleasures in activities outside work, and giving your passions a fair chunk of your days/time in order to stay creative and have a balanced work-life equation.

Arpit believes that the society needs to focus more on their mental health now more than ever, and activity-based sessions like these that focus on one's mental well-being should take place more often. You can follow 'Talk About It' on social media handles @ talkaboutit.au.

FICQ DIWALI 2021 FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland Inc. hosted a mega event, Diwali 2021(Festival of Lights), on the 5th of November 2021, at King George Square, Brisbane, right in the city's heart, was a great success. It started at 11.00 am and finished at 11.00 pm. The day was full of fun, including non-stop cultural performances, various stalls for foods, jewellery, clothes, artefacts, information, and many more.

The day started with lighting the lamp, and the inauguration of the Diwali souvenir, by the special guests, advisors, and EC members. Later on, in the day, we had a citizenship ceremony for 99 new citizens of Australia. The President of FICQ, Mr. Shyam Das, Mr. Graham Perrett MP, the presiding officer, Mr. Peter Russo MP, and Cr Angela Owen welcomed all the new citizens of Australia.

All the dignitaries started

arriving for the Indian traditional High Tea at 4.30 pm, including the Minister for Children, Youth Justice, and Multicultural Affairs Hon. Leanne Linard, in a saree, represented the Premier of Queensland.

Lord Mayor of Brisbane Cr. Adrian Schrinner, Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner also arrived in Indian attire. Mr. Trevor Evans MP was representing the Prime Minister of Australia Hon. Scott Morrison MP, Mr. Graham Perrett MP, represented the Federal opposition leader Hon. Anthony Albanese MP. Mr. John-Paul Langbroek MP represented the State Opposition Leader, Mr. David Crisafulli. Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr. Brian Swan represented the Police Commissioner of Queensland, Cr Teresa Harding, the Mayor of Ipswich, and many more dignitaries from different backgrounds were among the guests.

The Official Ceremony started at 6.00 pm and

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

finished at 8.00 pm. In his speech, the President, Mr. Shyam Das, signifies the importance of celebrating Diwali, which means the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, and also emphasized on promotion of multiculturalism and get vaccinated.

Then began the mesmerizing evening with more colourful, exciting cultural

performances, DJ, Dhol, and many more. In the end, the crowd went all excited and kept on dancing till the end.

The audience loved it, and so did the organiser.

FICQ appreciated the turnout in a big way, and the participants were great.

FICQ thanks everyone for their tremendous support!

The Committee members and volunteers of FICQ left no stone unturned to make

this iconic event a great success, and we're delighted that it could bring out the true spirit of Diwali among the audience despite COVID 19 hovering over our heads.

People loved everything

about the event from performances, decorations, food stalls and above all the presentation of the event.

FICQ extend their sincere thanks to all the guests, volunteers and performers.

Deepawali Family Festival 2021 Gayatri Mandir, Boondall Hindu Society of Queensland hosted a spectacular crowd -catching family event at Gayatri Mandir.

The forecasted storm around Queensland did not deter the enthusiastic audience. Crowds flocked from greater Brisbane areas to participate in this event.

Performers from all over Brisbane took great interest in showcasing their talents.

Performers entertained the audience for 4 hours with wellrehearsed drama, dances and songs. The audience’s favourite, which drew a huge applause, was definitely the sensational instrumental classic raagas rendered by the tabla and sarod duo.

Among the many attractions were free vegetarian meal, henna, raffles, rangoli competition, sweets and clothing stalls, also, highly appreciated Children’s Activities and Competitions.

Children of all ages participated in organised games, colouring -in competition and an

exclusive “Nach Lil Champs” dance competition. This was a stepping stone to encourage youth participation in all our future events.

Councillor Jared Cassidy of Deagon Ward, Mr Surendra Prasad and other esteemed leaders from the wider community, despite their busy schedule, found time to grace this event which was highly appreciated. The atmosphere resonated with Deepawali vibes and the universal message of connecting with our diverse communities.

The newly elected HSQ Inc. President, Mr Jai Ram shared the message of Deepavali and collective vision of building a new Mandir and a Multipurpose Hall at 373 Bracken Ridge Road, Bracken Ridge.

All participants received a token for participation, and the winners were awarded special prizes. A big thank you to all the participants, organisers, sponsors, families, and volunteers for an exuberant event.

Queensland Telugu Association (QTA) Durga puja COORPAROO, Queensland Telugu Association (QTA) performed Durga puja on 30th October 2021 at Coorparoo State Secondary College.

Pandit Vamsi Seethamraju garu performed the puja with all traditional values. He started the puja by showing respects to our Mother, Father, Teacher and guest by traditionally chanting 'Mathrudevobhava' 'Pithrudevobhava' 'Aachaaryadevobhava' 'Athididevobhava'.

He performed Vinayaka puja first then continue the Durga matha puja. He allowed all women to perfom sahasra naama Kumkuma archana (offering Kumkum as abhishekam for each of the 1000 names of Durga matha).

QTA provided all necessary supplies required for the prayer including one big bag of kumkum. QTA also provided a nice photo frame of Durga matha to each of the devotee who sat for the prayer.

As part of Raajopachaaram, Smt Jagruthi garu performed our own Telugu Kuchipudi dance and Smt Niharika garu sang traditional Telugu song on Durga Devi.

QTA wishes Durga matha's blessings on these two women and wishes them good luck.

After the prayer, the first prasadam was offer to our guests, Sri Umesh Chandra garu (Brisbane Times India Editor) and his wife Smt Usha Chandra garu. Our puja was also graced by our platinum sponsor Smt Shilpa garu from Kanchi Australia.

QTA thanks all foods sponsors for providing Call: (07) 3192 5188

absolutely delicious food for the occasion: Smt Deepik Bulusu Ammavari prasadham ,Balti Restaurants ,Dosa Hut Aspley,Dosa Hut Gold Coast,Dosa Hut Mt Gravatt, Hyderabad Flavours,Top in Town Restaurant.

Our occasion was graced by Brisbane Telangana Association members, Sri Kishore Kathi garu the secretary, EC member Sri Prabhakar Bachu garu (ExQTA President), Sri Naresh Racha garu EC member. QTA thank them for their support.

Our Ex-President Anoop Nannuru garu participated in the puja with his family.

QTA thanks Anoop for his continuous, everlasting support for all events.

We also had presence of our Mediation Committee members, Sri Sudershan Kanthakadi garu with his family and Sri Ram Junnuri

garu. QTA MC thanks MeC committee members for their continued support.

Lastly and very importantly, QTA immensely thank the main pujari garu Sri Vamsi Seethamraju garu for his impeccable chanting, the way he explains the rituals and the way he carried out the entire puja.

Very interesting fact to be noted here is Vamsi garu is a Full Time IT professional and he performs these prayers as a hobby only. However, every single person attended was simply spell bound by the experience Vamsi garu gave all of us. We cannot thank him enough for his continued service to the community.

QTA also specially thank the pujaris in assistance, Sri Naga Venkata Adhiraju garu and Sri Sri Krishna Ravipati garu for always being there and supporting Vamsi garu during these Devine duties.

Once again QTA thanks each volunteer, family member and other members who relentlessly worked in making this even a great success.

As always, no matter how much we thank, it is never enough thanking our Financial Sponsors.

Your continuous contribution and support are what keeps us going in conducting these

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events.

If we have missed to mention any other names, it would be a pure oversight but never a deliberate action.

In such case, please pardon us with your big heart and notify us immediately to correct our mistake.

On behalf of QTA ,President Sri Siva Indla,Vice President - Sri Ravi Gundepalli,Secretary

Sri Rama Krishna Bulusu,Treasurer Smt Manju Segu,Cultural Secretary - Sri Raghavendra Sampathirao EC Member - Smt Pavani Gandra,EC Member - Sri SriKrishna Ravipati, Coopt members:Sri Umesh Vangapalli, Sri Ravi Yenamandra, Sri Srinivas Ramadani, Smt Kiranmayee Earanti.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 41

BJP MLA’s proposal to name circle after Savarkar stirs row A proposal by Karnataka BJP MLA Bharath Shetty to rename a well-known circle in Mangaluru after Savarkar has stirred controversy as the Opposition has strongly opposed the idea.

The proposal was made by the MLA from Mangaluru North constituency before the committee on town planning and during a city council meeting. While he has gathered support from his party, the Opposition has been up in arms, with the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) warning the MLA of district-wide protests if the proposal goes through.

Talking to the media, Shetty defended his decision

claiming that he is unable to understand why naming a circle after a freedom fighter should be a matter of concern. “Savarkar was a freedom fighter who fought for our freedom and

dedicated his life for this cause. I don’t understand why he is a controversial figure, even the former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had said good things about him,” said the MLA.

Former PM Gowda lauds Modi for new statue at Kedarnath Former prime minister H D Deve Gowda on Saturday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his ‘dedication’ to transform the holy site of Kedarnath following the unveiling of Adi Shankaracharya’s statue.

He also said he was proud of the fact that there was a Karnataka connection to the endeavour as the statue was sculpted by Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj and the black schist was extracted from H D Kote in Mysuru district.

The 88-year-old JD(S) supremo also wished that he would soon visit Kedarnath to see the newly installed statue of the eighth century seer.

“I am deeply moved to see the very impressive

black schist statue of the great saint Sri Adi Shankaracharya being unveiled by you in Kedarnath on November 5.

I congratulate you for the dedication you have shown to the transformation of the

holy site,” Gowda wrote in his letter to Modi.

The JD(S) supremo said he is an ardent follower of the Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetham in Chikkamagaluru district in Karnataka, which is one of the four cardinal

Adding that Savarkar was an inspiration from many other freedom fighters, Shetty said that Savarkar was the only freedom fighter, who spent time in Kalapani prisons twice. “He lived his entire life for us, not for himself. We cannot forget people who lived their life only for us,” Shetty said.

He accused the SDPI and Congress of having a prejudice against the leader.

“Their opposition is politically motivated and because of wrong preconceptions. The proposal (to rename the circle) is going as per the legal process, and we will go ahead with it,” he said.

The Opposition leaders

centres established by Adi Shankaracharya.

Recalling the ‘inclusiveness’ of the Sringeri Math, the former Prime Minister said Sringeri has been a spiritual counselor across the centuries to many rulers and kingdoms.

He said the Wadiyar, the Peshwas, the Keladis, Travancore rulers, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and the Nizams of Hyderabad had immensely gained from their devotion to the Math and the wise counsel it offered.

“The glorious tradition of the Math’s guidance has continued to the present day. The Sringeri Math, personally for me, has been a refined symbol of interfaith harmony,” Gowda noted. The 12 feet tall statue, weighing 28 tons, has been installed on a rebuilt samadhi of Sankaracharya at Kedarnath, an important Hindu pilgrimage centre in the Himalayas.

TDP plans protests over rising fuel prices across Andhra on November 9 TDP chief Naidu said the Central government had reduced fuel prices by Rs.5 on petrol and Rs.10 on diesel. Later, many other states positively responded by cutting rates from their share to offer relief to the people.

Telugu Desam Party, the main opposition party in Andhra Pradesh, will hold dharnas at all petrol bunks in the state on November 9 demanding that the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy reduce the Value Added Tax on petrol and diesel in the state.

“The party cadres will take part in a one-hour dharna at all petrol bunks in the state from 12 noon to 1 pm on November 9, demanding that the state government cut the fuel prices in the state. The chief minister should fulfil his pre-election promise to make petrol and diesel prices in the state lowest in the country,” TDP president and former chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu told reporters on Friday.

At present, the Andhra Pradesh government has been collecting a VAT of 31 per cent and 22.25 per cent on petrol and diesel respectively, besides fixed charges of Rs.3.07 on petrol and Rs.2.76 on diesel.

The TDP chief said the Central government had reduced fuel prices by Rs.5 on petrol and Rs.10 on diesel. Later, many other states positively responded by cutting rates from their share to offer relief to the people. “But the Jagan

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

government is not at all responding,” he said.

Naidu recalled that during the last assembly elections, Jagan had promised to bring down the prices of petrol and diesel and make them the lowest in the country. “He had misled the people during the pre-election meetings saying that the people were crossing the border to buy cheaper petrol in Karnataka.

Now, there is clear proof to show that the fuel in AP is costlier by Rs.10.42 on petrol and Rs.12 on diesel per

litre, when compared with Bengaluru,” he pointed out.

Comparing the fuel rates in AP with other major cities, he said the price was higher

by Rs.16.75 per litre on petrol and Rs.16.10 in Andhra when compared with Chandigarh, and by Rs.15.70 on petrol and Rs.10.20 on diesel when compared with Lucknow.

“Jagan now owes an explanation to the public why the fuel rates are still the highest in the country,” he said and demanded that the government should now cut the fuel rates by Rs.16 to Rs.17 per litre on both petrol and diesel to make the prices in the state the lowest in the country.

The TDP chief said his party would also highlight the problems faced by the people due to bad roads and lack of road safety. “The road conditions in the state are so bad that it takes five to six hours to cover a certain distance, which could be normally covered in an hour,” he said.

however claimed that naming the junction after someone who is involved in the conspiracy to murder Mahatma Gandhi will not be tolerated.

Congress compotator AC Vinayaraj said that BJP leaders need to refer to the history books.

“Savarkar was part of the conspiracy to murder Gandhiji. We will also accept a person who helped Godse kill the father of the nation.

He also wrote three letters to the British apologizing for an early release,” said the corporator.

SDPI corporator Muneeb Bengre told the media: “We have already discussed the issue in the party meeting.

If the Surthkal junction is named after Savarkar, we will take legal action against it. We will also hold districtwide protests. I will also oppose this in the next town planning standing committee meeting.”

On September 8, 2020, then Karnataka chief minister B S Yediyurappa inaugurated a flyover in the city named Savarkar, despite opposition from the Congress and JD(S) to name it after him. The 400-meter long flyover, constructed for Rs.34 crores by city civic body Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike, is on the Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan Road at Yelahanka.

Delhi NCB team in Mumbai to take over Aryan Khan case

A six-member special investigation team (SIT) of the Delhi operations branch of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) arrived in the city on Saturday to take over probe into six cases, including the cruise drug bust case in which actor Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan was arrested, from its Mumbai zonal unit headed by Sameer Wankhede.

The six-member team is headed by the NCB’s deputy director general Sanjay Singh. NCB chief SN Pradhan on Friday issued an order transferring the six cases from NCB’s Mumbai zonal unit to the operations branch from its headquarters. The SIT was constituted to take over from NCB Mumbai zonal unit six cases in order to conduct deeper investigation, to find out forward and backward linkages, NCB said in a release on Friday.

“We have taken over six cases as per procedure.

There is nothing to say as of now,” Singh said in Mumbai. When asked about Wankhede, he replied, “Wankhede continues to be the zonal director, Mumbai and we will definitely take his help in the investigation.”

The SIT will start investigating the cruise drugs case from where point where actor Ananya Panday was questioned on October 25, an NCB officer said.

The list of the six cases

also includes the drugs case against Sameer Khan, son-in-law of Maharashtra cabinet minister and Nationalist Congress Party leader Nawab Malik. Khan was arrested by NCB in first of week January 2021 and was released on bail on September 28.

The SIT will also probe the case involving actor Armaan Kohli. An NCB team led by Wankhede had raided Kohli’s Juhu residence on August 28 and recovered a small quantity of cocaine.

Kohli was arrested on September 29, and continues to be behind bars.

A fourth case to be probed by the SIT was registered by the agency’s Mumbai zonal unit on July 25 when it arrested three persons – Sameer Mukhtar Sayyed alias Sam Langda, Zakir Sayyed alias Zakir Takla alias Zakir Chikna and Mohammad Amed Shamsuddin Shaikh and allegedly seized 1.2kg of charas, an intermediate quantity of mephedrone along with Rs.17.5 lakh in cash from them. NCB claimed that Sameer Merchant alias Sam Langda was a notorious, organised drug mafia member.

The fifth case on the list was registered in September when NCB recovered an intermediate quantity of mephedrone, whereas the sixth case related to the recovery of mephedrone from Dongri area in south Mumbai.

India’s COVID -19 Vaccination Drive 4India’s Covid-19 vaccination drive has achieved a historic milestone of administering 1 billion vaccine doses. Around 75% of the eligible population (18+) has been given the first dose, while around 30% has been given both doses.

4 India has achieved this mark of 1 billion vaccine doses in less than 40 weeks.

This milestone exemplifies India’s prowess in various elements in the vaccination journey – development of new vaccines, production of vaccines, deployment, and technology.

4 India’s Covid-19 vaccination drive was launched on 16January 2021.

But preparations had begun way back in April 2020 with the establishment of the National Task Force for Focused Research on Corona Vaccine. Indeed, a hallmark of India’s vaccination drive has been the high level oversight and coordination, particularly by the Prime Minister himself.

4 India prioritized vaccine development and launched ‘Mission Covid Suraksha’ to provide financial and technical support to indigenous vaccine manufacturers. This Mission is the force behind the world's first DNA-based COVID vaccine Zycov-D, developed

by Zydus Cadila, which will facilitate vaccination of children above 12 years.

The Mission also supported

the capacity development of Bharat Biotech and provided support for infrastructure and technology development for other public sector manufacturers.

4 Today, India is the only country that has developed multiple vaccines across multiple platforms (Bharat Biotech’s COVAXIN uses an inactivated virus platform, Zycov-D is a DNA vaccine, Covishield a viral vector vaccine, Gennova is in the running for being India’s first mRNA vaccine).

4 For vaccine deployment and delivery, a comprehensive system of planning and implementation was put in place. Besides

the National Task Force for Focused Research on Corona Vaccine, several expert advisory groups were set up at the highest level, including the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (NEGVAC) in August 2020, the Empowered Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (EGVAC) in January 2021, and the National Technical Advisory Group for Immunization (NTAGI) Working Group.

India’s vaccination drive roll out was backed by recommendations of these expert groups.

4 The National Covid Vaccination Programme initially targeted the

healthcare and frontline workers as well as senior citizens, due to their higher risk perception. Subsequently, the Programme was rolled out to include people above 45 years of age and with co-morbidities and later, all citizens above 45 years were included. In the ongoing phase, all adults above 18 years have been included and vaccination is being provided for free at public vaccination facilities. This implies about 940 million people have to be vaccinated with two doses each.

4 On the approval of Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), three vaccines have been utilized in the Programme (COVISHIELD developed by Serum Institute of India in collaboration with Astra Zeneca of the United Kingdom, COVAXIN of Bharat Biotech International Limited and SPUTNIK V of Russia).

4 Nearly all of the 1 billion doses administered have been Made-in-India, except for a miniscule proportion of Sputnik V (approximately 0.4 million doses). Moreover, more than 95% of those vaccine doses have been delivered by India’s public health system, a testimony to its reach and robustness.

Nevertheless, private healthcare outlets have also been included in the implementation of the vaccination drive.

4 A critical contribution to India’s successful

vaccination journey has been our experience with the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). The cold chain system of UIP was leveraged and upscaled.

Vaccines were stored at about 29,000 cold storage points and delivered across the country in more than 700 temperature controlled vehicles vehicles.

4 The cold chain supply lines are being managed using Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN). eVIN is an indigenously developed technology that digitizes vaccine stocks and monitors the temperature of the cold chain through a smartphone application.

4 India also developed aunique digital platform of CoWIN. The digital platform has made it possible to register beneficiaries, schedule their vaccination, generate QR Code based vaccine certificates and capture their vaccination history. In addition, it has also kept track of the entire implementation process including daily coverage and vaccine requirement across various Indian States.

4 The sheer expanse of the vaccination drive can be gauged from the fact that there are 313,000Covid Vaccination Centres across the country, of which 74% are at rural locations and account for 65% of the total coverage till now. Vaccination teams of 740,000persons,including

more than 264,000 vaccinators, were trained for the task.

4 The 1 billion landmark also celebrates the indomitable spirit of India’s frontline health workers – the nurses, the Auxiliary Nurse Midwives and the thousands of vaccinators, who overcame challenges of terrain and weather to reach the remotest areas ensuring that no one is left behind. Vaccine delivery

by Drones has also been recently piloted in the North-East region of the country. Special focus has been given on outreach to pregnant and lactating women, the destitute, vagabonds and other vulnerable groups.

In addition, the programme now includes Workplace COVID Vaccination Centers, Near to Home Vaccination and Mobile Vaccination Units for easier accessibility.

Prioritized vaccination of school teachers was also undertaken to ensure safe education for children.

4 By the end of 2021, we are looking at an increased monthly production of Covid19 vaccines, a larger basket of vaccine options and a larger proportion of our population fully vaccinated. This would translate to a larger potential to share vaccines with the world, contributing toward realization of the Prime Minister’s vision of “One Earth, One Health”.

Visa Options - Migrant Workers – Farm Work CONTD. FROM PG 3 Under these interim provisions, employers are still required to comply with all applicable Australian laws and will continue to have the same rights under Australian workplace law as all other employees.

Can I apply for a second or third WHM visa?

If they meet all eligibility criteria including but not limited to having worked in a designated area for 6 months.

How can I extend my stay if I work in agriculture?

Temporary visa holders who work in agriculture, or through employment in agriculture, can apply for a COVID-19 Pandemic Event visa to extend their stay and work in agricultural activities for up to 12 months.

If you are currently holding a visa for the expiring COVID-19 Pandemic incident you may be eligible for another COVID-19 Pandemic event visa to stay in Australia to continue working in the critical sector.

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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 MARN 0324607 www. migrationguru.com.au Disclaimer: - The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues, and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual. www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 43

FOCUS ON FIJI Social travellers have inundated the repatriation program - Dr Fong Permanent Secretary for Health Doctor James Fong says they are currently having a logistical challenge in providing the support for testing during quarantine because of the large volume of social travellers that have inundated the repatriation program.

He says they ask those travellers undergoing quarantine in the North to be patient as they continue

their protocols to protect the North while the vaccination program continues its rollout.

Doctor Fong stresses that for the North, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services is supporting a repatriation program and not a social travel program.

He says as such travel for short-term goals is likely to be adversely affected if a person turns out positive while in quarantine.

COP26: Climate Change Act targets carbon footprint accountability – Fiji PM Fiji’s newly-passed Climate Change Act 2021 has become the South Pacific island nation’s ‘North Star’, and its passing marks a historic milestone in the global fight.

Addressing the side event – ‘Climate Frontliners Coastal Communities in implementing the Paris Agreement (NDC and NAP) in Small Island Developing States’ – at COP26, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said that would set Fiji’s net-zero emissions target for 2050.

He said that would also include the country’s target to sustainably manage 100 per cent of our ocean with 30 per cent as marine protected areas (MPAs) – a mission he added they were working towards with the

UK Government.

“It establishes a legal framework that recognises carbon sequestration property rights and incentivises the protection of our carbon stocks through emissions-reduction projects,” Mr Bainimarama said.

“It holds our private

sector accountable for its carbon footprint through transparent reporting.

“It charges relevant agencies to conduct climate risk assessments and ensures that approval for new buildings and infrastructure projects is only granted if the proposal is Paris-Complaint and

climate risk-sensitised.

“It recognises that we must not only adapt our physical infrastructure but also our legal architecture if we are to withstand and manage climate shocks.”

Mr Bainimarama urged the audience to work in partnership with Fiji “to create scalable solutions that start in Fiji and grow to help build a more resilient world”.

“It is our hope that our foresight today empowers tens of thousands of Fijian children who watched their country devastated by cyclones to dedicate themselves to building a more resilient nation as they progress through life so that their children can be spared from much worse.”

FULL STORY: 88.3% of the adult target population now fully vaccinated while 20,059 students have received both doses

SODELPA VP, George Shiu Raj to decide after Management Board meeting on whether he stays with SODELPA or moves to another party

88.3% of the adult target population in Fiji is now fully vaccinated.

The latest update by the Permanent Secretary for Health Doctor James Fong says 96.7% of the adult target population have received one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

This means 597,991 people have received one

SODELPA Vice President, George Shiu Raj has confirmed to fijivillage that he will make a decision on which party to move to or to continue with SODELPA after the party’s Management Board meeting.

This comes after SODELPA General Secretary, Lenaitasi Duru revealed that he has received information that Raj met with People’s Alliance

dose and 545,105 people have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Doctor Fong also confirms that 20,059 children are fully vaccinated. 32,533 children have received one dose of the Moderna vaccine.

28 new COVID-19 cases were recorded in the last 24 hours.

Party Leader, Sitiveni Rabuka.

Raj confirms the party’s Management Board meeting could happen on any day between today and the 19th of November.

Meanwhile, Duru says Raj is still a member of SODELPA. He says they want to advise people that if they want to move, they can resign and then move.

As school reopening continues expect to find children with COVID-19 symptoms who will test positive – Dr Fong Permanent Secretary for Health Doctor James Fong says as school reopening continues they will expect to find children with COVID-19 symptoms who will test positive.

He says in these instances, an initial investigation will involve several areas.

It includes establishing whether or not the test reflects an old infection wherein the student is not

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

infectious or a recently acquired infectious case.

A review of the school covid safe conditions will also be conducted.

There will be an initiation of the contact tracing

investigations which will include immediate swabbing of high-risk contacts Doctor Fong says with good vaccination coverage and high levels of COVID safe adherence, it is possible for

Prince Charles keen to make a trip to Fiji – Bainimarama

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says Prince Charles has told him that he is keen to make the trip back to Fiji. Prince Charles was supposed to visit Fiji for our 50th Anniversary of Independence.

Bainimarama met with

Prince Charles while at COP26 in Glasgow.

The Prime Minister says Prince Charles is a lifelong friend to Fiji and he knows what's at stake for the Pacific at COP26.

He adds Fiji could not ask for a better ally.

Mother loses her daughter a day before her birthday in tragic Navua accident

A mother lost her daughter a day before her birthday in the tragic accident in Wainiyabia, Navua yesterday afternoon that also claimed the life of three children.

Mere Rasuaki who was to celebrate her 56th birthday today says her daughter, Elenoa Adisavuiwasa was travelling to Sigatoka with her 6-year-old son, her defacto husband, 4 and 13-yearold nephews and 10-year-old niece.

She says only her daughter and her de-facto husband were to travel to Sigatoka but the children got upset so Elenoa decided to bring them along as well.

Rasuaki says her grandson is admitted in the hospital while her daughters nephews and niece are no more.

She adds she managed to talk to her grandson.

Rasuaki says her daughter had already arranged for a cake to be delivered to her house this morning.

She says she received a call this morning from the bakers who were asking about her daughter and the address the cake was to be delivered to.

Rasuaki adds she last spoke to her daughter at about midday yesterday when she had informed her that she was travelling to Sigatoka.

She says she did not know that her daughter was going to surprise her with a birthday party.

The suspect who is the woman’s defacto husband is admitted in the hospital.

He has sustained serious injuries.

Police say the suspect was allegedly driving at a high speed when he failed to negotiate a bend resulting in the collision with a bus.

The post mortem examinations of the four victims will be conducted soon.

Investigations continue.

them to facilitate a measured containment program whilst continuing the school program.

He says it is expected that these cases will help to refine the implementation of COVID safe measures in schools and help to put in place a quality improvement framework around the program to promote the safe opening of schools.

Doctor Fong stresses that students need to maintain proper masking practices at all times, remain as much as possible in open ventilated spaces when with their

friends and follow all covid safe measures especially when indoors.

He says a recent case highlighted in the media is under investigation.

Doctor Fong adds their initial findings suggest that this was a historical case and that the symptoms are unlikely to be related to COVID-19.

He further confirms that no urgent measures were required immediately.

Doctor Fong says a more comprehensive report will be released once investigations are complete.

Brisbane Gets a New Themed Durga Pujo

ALBANY CREEK,‘Oikotan – harmony of generations’the brainchild of four friends – Shaona, Uttorio, Dipanjan and Animesh, organized its inaugural Durga Pujo on 10th October, 2021 at Albany Creek Community Centre.

The event saw a footfall of over 200 participants amidst COVID restrictions, was never actually planned while the new organization was being formed earlier this year in May, with a vision of bringing together their deep-rooted Bengali culture.

With encouraging support from the community, team Oikotan took the bold step of announcing Durga Pujo and the announcement was made through our first ever virtual cultural event.

A team was formed soon after, who undertook the mammoth task of getting it all done within a span of just 75 days. To portray the tradition of ‘theme pujo (décor based on a theme)’ from back home, they created a ‘Thakur dalan’, an architecture inherited from the zamindars and babus used as a place for worship and other cultural activities back in the day in West Bengal.

Visits to Bunnings, Officeworks and Spotlight became a regular affair as the different parts of the "Pandal", the marquee, took shape over the next few weeks leading up to the pujo.

While technology played a huge role in ensuring that budgeting, forecasting and maintaining a list of invitees and participants were all done online.

On the day prior to the event, the core

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team members and the volunteers met at the venue to put together all of the decorations. Over the next three hours and brilliant efforts from everyone, the "Thakur Dalan" was finally erected.

Oikotan collaborated with Australian Indian Radio and broadcasted ‘Mahalaya’ to mark the beginning of ‘Devipakksha’. Time and budget for an event of such extent and the CovidSafe restrictions just before the D-day was not on their side.

But with the focus to bring Bengalis of all generations in Brisbane and in Australia at large to feel at home, Oikotan arranged for all the rituals to be performed in one day, following all Covid Safety rules and regulations.

The Pujo was Inaugurated by Councillor Catherine Tonks, Mr. Umesh Chandra OAM, Mrs. Usha Chandra and Mr. Ram Mohan. Slots were assigned to all invitees for both day and night as people started pouring in from ten in the morning. The participation was amazing with Bengalis originating from West Bengal, India as well as Bangladesh visiting the event from as far as Rockhampton, Gladstone, Gold Coast and other regional areas of Queensland.

Pujo started with the men and women taking part in the rituals ranging from cutting fruits, cooking prasad and taking part in various pujo rituals. While Ashtami Anjali was the central point of attraction as part of the pujo, shandhi pujo was marked by the women lighting 108 lamps.

The traditional Durga

Pujo meal of ‘Khichudi’, ‘Labda’ and ‘Chatni’ arranged

by Oikotan not only hit the right spot of traditionalism, but it was also appreciated by each participant. The fun was doubled up with relentless Adda (casual chit chats), selfies and groupies with Maa Durga in a relaxed environment.

Pujo was concluded with "Visharjan"(immersion) as the women queued up to take part in "Debi Boron" and "Shindur Khela", a ritual women offer prayer, sweets to bid goodbye to Uma(Goddess Durga) and indulge in applying vermillion on each other’s head.

Soon enough the crowd joined in to dance to the tunes of "dhak" as everyone joined in synchronous shouting of "Aschhe bochhor abar hobe" (next year it will happen again) to mark the end of the festival.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 45

Due to INSANE demand for Sooryavanshi, cinema halls in Mumbai organize post midnight and even 4:30 am shows Before the pandemic caused havoc, the makers of Sooryavanshi had announced that their film will run 24x7 in the city of Mumbai. This was a time when the action flick was supposed to release on March 24, 2020. Running Sooryavanshi’s shows for 24 hours, including shows post-midnight, was a part of Maharashtra Tourism and Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray’s initiative to turn Mumbai into a city that remains open 24x7.

Sadly, after the lockdown was imposed in the country, the much awaited film directed by Rohit Shetty and starring Akshay Kumar, was postponed. It finally released yesterday, on Friday, November 5.

Such was the demand for the film that the last show in Maxus cinema in Borivali, Mumbai was played yesterday (November 5) at 11:45 pm. The next show was held at 12:30 am followed by shows at 1:15 am and

2:00 am. After a two-and-ahalf-hour gap, the multiplex commenced the shows from 4:30 am followed by 5:15 and 6:00 am. Interestingly, all these shows were sold out or nearly full.

The other cinema of Maxus, at Bhayandar, held a show of Sooryavanshi at 12:45 am and it also got a good response. Rockstar Nova Cinemaz in Virar, on the other

hand, decided to play the film at 12:30 am and 12:45 am due to high demand.

Meanwhile, Movie Time's property in Chembur too had to keep a show at 12:30 am.

When contacted, a staff person at this multiplex told this writer, “We program shows as per the demand. Our 11:30 pm show got sold out. Many people still wanted to see and they were enquiring about the

tickets. We didn’t want them to go home dejected and we could see that they wanted to see the film desperately. So we decided to hold a show at 12:30 am show.

He added that the occupancy in this post midnight show was encouraging and also added that “We’ll hold the same show even tonight as well as tomorrow night.”

Revealed: Jaya Bachchan to play negative role in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani For the first time in her entire career Jaya Bachchan is playing a negative role.

The film is Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani where she plays Ranveer Singh’s scheming manipulative grandmother.

According to a source close to the film it is an out and out negative role.

“Jaya has never played a negative role in her entire career. Not even a slightly grey character. When she was offered this really evil character her first reaction was, ‘Why me?’

Karan had to work

really hard on convincing Jaya to take up the offer.

In the beginning she had some difficulties in understanding how her character’s devilish mind worked. Being the seasoned actress that she is, she soon got a hang of it. She’s having a blast playing this evil woman,” says a source in the know.

Interestingly Jaya’s daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is also playing a negative character in her next film Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan .

NCB officer Sameer Wankhede to not investigate drugs-on-cruise case involving Aryan Khan A lot has transpired ever since Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan was arrested a month ago in drugs on cruise case by the Narcotics Control Bureau(NCB). Officer Sameer Wankhede who was heading the case has now been removed from the drugs case involving. He has also been removed from five other cases which were being led by him. All six cases have been transferred out of the agency's Mumbai unit allegations of extortion and a Rs. 8 crore payoff linked to the case involving Aryan are resolved.

The case will now be taken by a SIT(Special Investigation Team) led by senior police officer Sanjay Singh. He will also be taking up the case involving NCP leader Nawab

Malik's son-in-law. Malik has been leveling allegations

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

against Wankhede and the anti-drugs agency for the

past month.

However, after the news of Wankhede being removed from the cases came out, the officer told the media that he has not been removed from anywhere and that he had asked for the cases to be transferred out. Wankhede said that it was his writ petition in the Bombay High Court that the matter be probed by a central agency like the CBI or NIA that led to the formation of the SIT. Meanwhile, Aryan Khan is currently out on conditional bail. He was asked to appear at the NCB office in Mumbai every Friday to mark his attendance.

On Friday, November 5, Aryan was spotted at the NCB office at the time allotted to him.

Bunty Aur Babli 2 lead pair Siddhant Chaturvedi and Sharvari host a nationwide contest for daring lovers

Yash Raj Films’ family entertainer Bunty Aur Babli 2 will unveil the freshest Jodi of Bollywood – Gully Boy hunk Siddhant Chaturvedi and the stunning debutant Sharvari.

The two are the lead pair in this comedy as they play the role of the new Bunty and Babli respectively. They are brilliantly talented con artists as well as fearless lovers who would do anything to protect each other. They live each day like there’s no tomorrow. The makers want to tell audiences about their passionate romantic angle in the film through a nationwide contest that will see Siddhant and Sharvari talk to daring lovers who have moved mountains for their beloved.

Siddhant reveals, "While Bunty Aur Babli 2 is a bigticket con heist film, there is a very sweet, special love track between the new Babli and Bunty, played by Sharvari and me, respectively. They are young kids, conning people left, right and center with panache and are extremely proud of the name that they are making as the best concouple. They were friends first and they graduate into lovers with a secret they can

never share with the world."

Sharvari says, "Every love story is special and every love story has a unique backstory.

The new Bunty and Babli’s love story is built on a huge secret that brings excitement, thrill, and a risk factor to their relationship. Because of their secret identities as the best con artists, they are passionate lovers who live in the moment because today is all they have. They can be anyone, they can con anyone, they live life on the fast lane which is why they are each other's strongest support and confidants."

Bunty Aur Babli 2 also features Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji as the original Bunty and Babli. This comedy will pit two sets of con artists, from different generations, against each other as they try to prove who is the better con couple.

Yash Raj Films’ out and out family entertainer Bunty Aur Babli 2, which is set to release worldwide on November 19, 2021, has been directed by Varun V. Sharma, who has worked as an Assistant Director in YRF’s biggest blockbusters Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai.

Sooryavanshi issues resolved; film to release across all multiplexes and single screens in India on Friday, November 5!

The producers of the Akshay Kumar starrer and Rohit Shetty directed film demanded 60% revenue share in the first week and also told theatre owners to provide maximum number of shows to their film.

Theatres with 2 or less than 2 screens were asked not to play Eternals, the major Hollywood film which also releases on the same day as Sooryavanshi, on November 5.

The industry expected these problems to be resolved

by Monday or Tuesday.

Shockingly, both parties couldn't reach a common ground despite having multiple meetings. Even today, that is, Thursday, they had another round of meeting and it seemed like the issue won't be resolved.

Meanwhile, the moviegoers got agitated as they wanted to see the film but realized that many cinemas across the country had not opened selling tickets of the film.

The industry and trade was all set to conclude that

Sooryavanshi would get a limited release tomorrow.

However, at 10:30 pm today, Rohit Shetty put up an Instagram post announcing that they have managed to reach a resolution. He also indicated that he was busy since morning in reaching a consensus and due to which he didn't even eat the whole day.

Rohit Shetty's post read, "Last battle won! Sooryavanshi releasing across all multiplexes and single screens all over the country. My audience who have been waiting eagerly can book their tickets now!

Going home for the first meal of the day! And by the way, Happy Diwali to the whole film industry."

BOOK REVIEW

By Rama Gaind

ISBN: 9781913068356 Backable

By Suneel Gupta with Carlye Adler, Hachette Australia, $32.99 Backable tells the surprising truth behind what makes people take a chance on you. We all have such instances: “times when something sounded exciting inside your head but uninspiring when it left your mouth”. That’s when the time comes for you to make adjustments to your

style without losing your edge — “without sacrificing what makes us who we are”.

Inside this book are those adjustments: seven surprising changes that course-corrected Gupta’s life and career. “By taking these steps, I went from feeling embarrassed to speak inside team meetings to confidently pitching ideas inside the offices of people like Michelle Obama and Tim Cook.” He went from being rejected by every investor he pitched to raising millions of dollars!

In his invaluable book, tech entrepreneur Gupta notes that lots of people have good and even great ideas, but the ones who persuade investors to back them “aren’t just brilliant.

They’re backable”.

As he explains, “being backable isn’t just about lighting up a boardroom with your confidence or charisma. Instead, it’s about conveying your idea with

such conviction that others come to share your belief in it too — and also believe you are the person to make that idea a reality”.

No one makes it alone, and Backable has the key steps to help convince anyone to see your potential. Gupta had the required quality to inspire others to take action. One of the accolades he received was being named the New York Stock Exchange's 'New Face of Innovation'.

What an unbelievable endorsement!

Suneel’s tale is a cautionary one of a career that had gone off the rails through cancelled projects, missed promotions and near-bankrupt startups. He began to question his life choices … and came out on top.

Above all, applause goes to those near and dear to Suneel, who taught him not only how to wonder, but also how to believe!

Inside this book are those adjustments: seven surprising changes that coursecorrected Gupta’s life and career. “By taking these steps, I went from feeling embarrassed to speak inside team meetings to confidently pitching ideas inside the offices of people like Michelle Obama and Tim Cook.”

He went from being rejected by every investor he pitched to raising millions of dollars!

FILM REVIEW

By Rama Gaind Film: Sardar Udham Director: Shoojit Sircar Streaming: Amazon Prime Video The Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar, India, in 1919 is one part of history that’s not been elaborated on to a great extent before — that is, until now. For director Shoojit Sircar, Sardar Udham was more than two decades in the making. An interesting parallel is that it took more than 20 years for Sardar Udham Singh to exact his revenge!

It was on 13 March 1940, in London, that Udham Singh (played excellently

by Vicky Kaushal) joined an orderly meeting, waited for the speaker — Michael O'Dwyer (Shaun Scott), former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab Province — to finish his lecture, walked across the room, faced him and shot him point-blank.

Singh had finally retaliated and succeeded in what he had vowed to do, after his traumatic witnessing of the slaughter.

Singh had the rigid determination of a freedom fighter resolute in his intent on vengeance, embarking on a perilous journey through Afghanistan and the USSR to strike at his enemy's heart in London.

This film is based on the true story of Udham Singh

Call: (07) 3192 5188

and his undeterred mission to avenge the lives of his beloved brethren who were brutally killed in the Amritsar massacre. In his portrayal, Kaushal (Masaan, Uri The Surgical Strike, Raazi, Sanju) is just “pure, raw, honest and heartbreaking”.

On that fateful night of 13 April —102 years ago this year — a large but peaceful crowd had gathered at the Jallianwala Bagh in Punjab to protest against the arrest of pro-Indian independence leaders Dr Saifuddin Kitchlew and Dr Satyapal.

The unarmed Indians had also come together to celebrate the festival of Baisakhi (the spring harvest).

Unfortunately, the crowd was unaware the British had banned gatherings at the time.

So, to punish civilians

for their 'disobedience', Brigadier-General Reginald

Dyer (Andrew Havill) ordered the army to fire into

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the throng of thousands.

Dyer ordered his men to shoot, and O'Dwyer endorsed that action.

Director Sircar (Vicky Donor, Madras Café, Piku) has taken an indeterminate narrative style that’s out-ofthe-ordinary, a format rarely used in patriotic films. He influences the nationalistic aspect in a discerning way by putting across the viewpoints of both the freedom fighters and the British administration.

Sircar had a clear vision that’s resulted in untarnished storytelling, a historical masterpiece. He gently, yet overwhelmingly, puts across the messages of freedom and equality propagated

by Udham and the terrific Amol Parashar, who capably played the role of another revolutionary Bhagat Singh.

This biopic is about an unsung Indian revolutionary.

When Udham Singh is brutally tortured and repetitively asked his name, he thrusts out his arm on which is tattooed: Ram Mohammad Singh Azad.

Sircar delivers another subtle, offbeat, yet poignant cinema experience.

It’s lengthy (at 162 minutes), disconcerting and a disquiet rejuvenation of a tumultuous slice of India’s colonial past.

The soul of the film is best reflected in the reserved, inconspicuous, immensely valuable background score

by Shantanu Moitra. With cinematographer Avik Mukhopadhyay and his technical team, Sircar has delivered a Hindi biographical picture that can be regarded as world class — in style and substance.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 47

Migrant Blood-borne Virus and Sexual Health Survey (MiBSS) Study The Problem BBVs and STIs affect all groups of people living in Australia.

However, we currently don’t know much about the knowledge, attitudes, behaviours or practices of migrant populations living in Australia. This makes it difficult to know whether current policies and services are meeting their needs.

We’re trying to change that, but we need help from the community, particularly members of the South-East Asian, North-East Asian and Sub-Saharan African communities, service providers, academics and policy makers and key decision makers.

The story so far The Migrant Bloodborne Virus and Sexual Health Survey (MiBSS) study is a national project to assess the knowledge

and practices of South-East Asian, North-East Asian and Sub-Saharan African migrants in relation to sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and bloodborne viruses (BBVs).

The project is funded by the Australian Research Council with contributions from statebased stakeholders.

In Queensland, supplementary funding was received from the Queensland Health Sexual Health Research Fund Grant.

Steering group members include representatives from Queensland University of Technology, the University of Southern Queensland, the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland, Metro North Public Health Unit, Queensland Positive People and Curtin University (Perth).

In Queensland, 454 surveys were completed between

September 2020 and April 2021 with the sample evenly distributed between regions of birth.

Preliminary analysis is concerning and reveals the following results: There are high levels of familiarity with HIV, but lower awareness of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Many respondents did not know: • HIV is not included in all adult blood tests in Australia (54% did not know this); • there are medicines that can be taken before sex to protect against HIV (PrEP) (84% did not know this); • a person can have an STI without any symptoms (44% did not know this); • a person with only one sexual partner can get an STI through sex (45% did

not know this); • there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C (65% did not know this); • a cure is available for hepatitis C (72% did not know this); and • the differences between hepatitis B and other types of hepatitis, despite having heard of hepatitis (77% did not know this) Many respondents reported condom use at last sexual encounter was low (fewer than onethird of sexually active respondents), and just over one-third reported having been tested for an STI/BBV in the last two years.

There were some statistically significant differences in responses by region of birth, gender and age, emphasising the need for health promotion responses that reflect the diversity of the population.

Want more results and information

A comprehensive summary of the survey results for Queensland is available at mibss.org/ publications along results from other states involved in the Study.

ECCQ has hard copies of the published reports available for free to the community.

ECCQ would also like to encourage all people from our culturally and linguistically diverse communities to contact us if you have any questions about these results and

any concerns you may have about BBV and STIs and how and where to get testing, management and monitoring if needed.

Please contact ECCQ either by email to health@ eccq.com.au or call (07) 3844 9166.

If you live in Cairns, you can also contact: Rhondda Lewis: Viral Hepatitis Health Practition er Phone: 07-4226 4761 email: Rhondda.

Lewis@health.qld.gov.au

Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)

Home Remedies for Back Acne Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

Hey Girls, Back acne is as horrible as facial acne.

People who suffer from facial acne are most likely to suffer from back acne as well. However, back acne is pretty difficult to treat as it is not readily visible and is hard to reach as well.

The main cause of acne is hormonal imbalance.

They start during the puberty period due to the over secretion of hormones and goes away once an individual reaches their twenties.

Stress, sleep deprivation, bad eating habits and hectic schedules are some other reasons that can cause acne. Let’s give you the confidence you need to get yourself ready for the beach in this beautiful sunny weather. Here are some homes remedies that will help you know how to get rid of back acne.

Home Remedies for Back Acne - Apple Cider Vinegar Dilute a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a tablespoon of water. Dab a cotton ball in the solution and apply it on the acne.

Leave it on for a few hours and then wash it off with lukewarm water.

Tea Bags This is an excellent remedy for getting rid of back acne scars. Cut a

tea bag containing green tea and pour into a bowl.

Add a teaspoon each of cinnamon, sea salt and sugar.

Pour some coconut oil to make a paste. Spread the paste on the back and gently massage for a couple of minutes. Wash it off with warm water.

Sea Salt Sea salt controls the build-up of bacteria on the skin. Fill a bathtub halfway with warm water.

Add 3 cups of sea salt to it. Now, soak your body in the water for half an hour.

Depending on how bad is your acne, you can do this once or twice in a day.

Alternatively, you can also use Epsom salt as a substitute.

Clove Oil Clove oil is very good for preventing acne. It’s analgesic, antiinflammatory, antiseptic, anti-bacterial and anaesthetics properties kill the bacteria and smoothens the skin.

Mix 1 teaspoon of clove oil and 10 teaspoons of any carrier oil (such as sunflower oil). Now dip a cotton ball in the oil or use your finger tips to apply the oil on the back.

Toothpaste It is one of the easiest ways to get rid of ugly acne overnight.

Toothpaste helps dry out the pimples and also reduces swelling.

Apply it on the acne prone area, before you hit the hay and clear it the next

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

a departmental store.

Apply the gel on the back and leave it on for a few minutes. Wash it off with water. Do this two times in a day for better results.

Note: People with sensitive skin should wash the affected area with a solution of lemon and water, prior applying the aloe Vera gel

morning.

Olive oil It is a natural moisturizer that eventually lessens the appearance of scars. Just take adequate amount of olive oil and apply it on your acne with a back scratcher. Leave it on for 5 minutes and then using a dry washcloth, wipe it off.

Herbal Remedies for Acne Rosewater and Sandalwood Rose water nourishes the skin, while the cicatrizing and antimicrobial properties of sandalwood powder smoothens the skin and lightens the scars. Get some sandalwood powder and mix it with a teaspoon of rosewater to form a smooth paste. Apply this paste on the back and leave it overnight. Rinse it in the next morning.

Note: You can mix sandalwood powder with milk, oatmeal, turmeric, glycerine, lime juice, fuller’s earth, black gram flour, buttermilk,

tomatoes, tea tree oil, cucumber juice and any other ingredient that helps to reduce acne.

Tea Tree Oil Tea tree oil cleanses the pores and destroys all the bacteria, since it is antiseptic in nature. A single drop of tree tea oil is sufficient for healing the skin issues. Follow this remedy three times a day.

Note: Using undiluted tea tree oil can make the skin dry. Therefore, use a solution that contains only 5% tea tree oil.

Boys who have not reached puberty should not apply a solution of tea tree oil and lavender oil, as it can have a hormonal effect on their body.

Never take tea tree oil orally, as it can cause rashes, unsteadiness, etc., and may inhibit a person from walking.

Aloe Vera The soothing properties of aloe Vera cure acne in a couple of days. It also removes the scars.

Either extract the gel from an aloe Vera leaf or buy readymade gel from

Indian Lilac Indian Lilac is loaded with antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that kill the acne causing bacteria.

Take some handful of Indian lilac leaves. Crush them to make a paste. Add some water and half a tsp of turmeric powder to it. Now, spread this herbal pack on your entire back. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes.

Afterwards, wash it off with warm water.

Moreover, you can also use neem oil, which is readily available.

Witch Hazel Pour some witch hazel in a bowl. Dab a cotton ball in the solution and apply on the back. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse it off.

Fenugreek Seeds / leaves The inflammatory properties of fenugreek reduce inflammation of the skin. Soak some fenugreek seeds in water overnight. In the morning, boil this water along with fenugreek.

Strain the seeds and keep the water aside. Now dip a cotton

ball in the water and dab it on the acne. Leave it for the entire day.

Alternatively, make a paste using some fenugreek leaves and spread it on the back.

Wash after half an hour.

Mint Leaves Menthol is a natural analgesic and is packed with anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to even out the skin and reduces the itching as well. Crush a handful of mint leaves and add water to make a paste. Apply the paste on acne and wait for 15 minutes. Wash it with water and repeat again after a few hours. Do this thrice a day.

Things you need to do to keep yourself energised this summer: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated; Eat lots of fruits and vegetables; If you sweat a lot, make sure you take a bath at least twice a day; Wear lose fitting clothes; Always apply sunscreen lotion before you step out of the house; Clean the skin on your back on a regular basis.

Do not do: Eat oily or fried foods; Pop the acne, as it will leave a scar; Avoid excessive sun exposure.

Stay sun safe this summer and we’ll see you next month. Nimisha: 0412350013, find more articles and details at heatvihairandbeauty.com/

Woolworths helps customersto InternatIonal students celebrateto Diwali with expanded return Queensland South Asian product range ContD. FroM PG 1

Returning 2students will Tuesday November arrive at Brisbane Airport 2021: Diwali preparations and be bused Wellcamp, are now madeto easier and unless the federal more convenient with government special South Asianapproves products international to available incharters selected land there. stores across the Woolworths "We anticipate that these country. students be able an to Diwali willoccupies back up our hard working unparalleled place in frontline workers," the heartshealth of people and Mr Hinchcliffe said.

Woolworths has embraced strategicof advantage the"The importance the role that we'll during have Diwali over the food plays by southern states is the offering tailored products for Wellcamp quarantine the South Asian community, facility construction availableunder in over 200 stores west of Toowoomba." nationally and also online.

The range of products FaMIly snacks, CaUtIoUS, BUt includes spices, rice, HoPeFUl atta flour and other cooking The announcement has ingredients to help create been met special with cautious flavourful dishes optimism from families like during the festive period. the hope TheseMachiahs, speciallywhosourced their son Aryan able products not will onlybe offer to returnfood from Papua popular items, but New also Guinea to study medicine in Queensland next year.

"There's hope, but you wait — it's cautious hope, you know," Aaryan's mother Nix Machiah said.

The Machiahs' efforts to get Aaryan back to his boarding school in Toowoomba were knocked back four times and they had started to look at alternative options for university.

"It would be good to see that families like ours don't have to go through what we went through in the last 18 months," Ms Machiah said.

But they say it is still up in the air — with limited access to the vaccine for his age group in Papua New Guinea, Aaryan is yet to receive aFroM shot. PG 1 ContD. "We really just don't know at this point, but he'd Returning students like toarrive get back it's will at there, Brisbane where his are, his Airport andfriends be bused to home, andunless we know there's Wellcamp, the federal other kids in his position," government approves Ms Machiah said. international charters to land there.

SaFety FIrSt, BUt "We anticipate that these UnIVerSItIeS students will be able to 'DelIGHteD' back up our hard working Mr Hinchcliffe frontline health workers,"said Mr quarantinesaid. would remain Hinchcliffe necessary evenadvantage when "The strategic vaccination rates were that we'll have overhigh. the "The reality we southern statesis too, is the don't know if there is Wellcamp quarantine facility anotherconstruction variant of the virus under west of Toowoomba."

around the corner and international quarantining will necessarily, potentially, come back up as an issue from time to time."

Queensland's Covid-19 plan includes doing away with quarantine for fully vaccinated international travellers, once 90 per cent of the eligible population is vaccinated.

"When we are at 90 per cent, that is a matter we'll have to contemplate, but this student arrival plan is in line with the requirements and criteria that are set by the Australian government," Mr Hinchliffe said.

"And they're in line with similar requirements — there's quarantine requirements in all of the student arrival plans that other jurisdictions in Australia have at the moment."

University of Queensland vice chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said universities were keen to welcome students back.

"We've obviously been monitoring very closely interest in our courses.

Australian higher education has a great reputation internationally and we are continuing to see high numbers of applications coming forward," she said.

QUT vice chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil said there was an important personal dimension to the announcement.

"Many of these students went home to visit families and have been unable to return for nearly two years," she said.

"They've stuck with us … they've been investing options for university. in "Itthat wouldeducation be good to that see we'refamilies providing so don't the that like ours opportunity to send have to go through whatthis we reallythrough important signal went in the lastthat 18 they're going to be able months," Ms Machiah said.to return is sosay important."

But they it is still up in Cook University theJames air — with limited access professor and chair of age the to the vaccine for his Queensland Vice Chancellor group in Papua New Guinea, Committee Sandra Harding Aaryan is yet to receive a said she was "delighted" by shot. the"We plan. really just don't know "These have at this point,students but he'd like to been studying for get back there, it'sonline where his almost are, twohisyears friends home,waiting and we to return Queensland know there'sto other kids in his and manyMs ofMachiah them need position," said.to undertake important SaFety FIrSt, BUt UnIVerSItIeS 'DelIGHteD' Mr Hinchcliffe said quarantine would remain necessary even when vaccination rates were high.

"The reality is too, we don't know if there is another variant of the virus around the corner and international quarantining will necessarily, potentially, come back up as an issue from time to time.

"Queensland's Covid-19 plan includes doing away with quarantine for fully vaccinated international travellers, once 90 per cent of the eligible population is vaccinated.

provide great convenience to the South Asian community in Australia to help them prepare for the Diwali celebrations.

Woolworths is offering special prices on key household ingredients such as Dhara Sunflower Oil, a range of Maharajah’s Choice spices, Kushi Juices, Amul White Ghee and a range of Katoomba Ingredients, used in everyday cooking.

In this week's catalogue, customers will find Riviana Basmati Rice 5kg bags half price, down to $9.50 each, and savings across selected Patak’s products including Mini Pappadums, Curry Paste and Simmer Sauce.

Woolworths Commercial Director for Grocery Food Ewan Shearer said; “We understand Diwali is an important time for family

gatherings, celebration and great food. Our teams have been working hard to expand our South Asian product range and ensure customers have all the ingredients and products they need to celebrate.

“For Diwali, we have the right variety of local and international products offering great value to help our customers during their busy preparations leading into the Diwali festivities.

“On behalf of Woolworths, I would like to wish the entire community a very happy Diwali.”

For more information on Woolworths stores that stock the Diwali range and recipe ideas, visit www.woolworths. com.au/diwali and for this week's catalogue, visit https://www.woolworths. com.au/shop/catalogue.

James Cook University professor and chair of the Queensland Vice Chancellor Committee Sandra Harding said she was "delighted" by the plan.

"These students have been studying online for almost two years waiting to return to Queensland and many of them need to undertake important.

WORLD AIDS InternatIonal students to return to Queensland DAY 2021

FaMIly CaUtIoUS, BUt HoPeFUl The announcement has been met with cautious optimism from families like the Machiahs, who hope their son Aryan will be able to return from Papua New Guinea to study medicine in Queensland next year.

"There's hope, but you wait — it's cautious hope, you know," Aaryan's mother Nix Machiah said.

The Machiahs' efforts to get Aaryan back to his boarding school in Toowoomba were knocked back four times and they had started to look at alternative Call: (07) 3192 5188

in that education that we're providing so the opportunity to send this really important signal that they're going to be able to return is so important."

40 YEARS OF HIV – WHERE TO NEXT "When we are at 90 per cent, that is a matter we'll have to contemplate, but this student arrival plan is in line with the requirements and criteria that are set by the Australian government," Mr Hinchliffe said.

"And they're in line with similar requirements — there's quarantine requirements in all of the student arrival plans that other jurisdictions in Australia have at the moment."University of Queensland vice chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said universities were keen to welcome students back.

"We've obviously been monitoring very closely interest in our courses.

Australian higher education has a great reputation internationally and we are continuing to see high numbers of applications coming forward," she said.

QUT vice chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil said there was an important personal dimension to the announcement.

"Many of these students went home to visit families and have been unable to return for nearly two years," she said.

This eventstuck is held

by Ethnic "They've with us … they've been investing

Multicultural Community Forum

Updated Data on HIV and STIs Guest Speakers including People Living with HIV Questions & Discussions Quiz & Giveaways Different Language Resources

RSVP by 1 December 2021 health@eccq.com.au 07 3844 9166 or our staff limited seats

When: Saturday 4 December 2021 Time: 10:00am – 12:30pm Coffee, tea and information stalls 10:00am – 10:30am Light lunch from 12pm

Where: Acacia Ridge Hall 13 Coley St, Acacia Ridge (Opposite KFC Acacia Ridge)

Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) and supported by Queensland Health

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 49

NOVEMBER-2021

Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

The period may be promising for Aries natives. You may get involved in a research related profession and also succeed in work that relates to religious activities. You may need to get attentive with the responsibility of your personal and professional aspects. Try to prioritize and allot time for family and professional needs. Be cautious in personal relationships and withdraw from hasty commitments in a bonding. There may be sudden changes of conflict and detachment in the association due to a disagreement. The period may bring good tidings for singles who may receive suitable marriage proposals. Those in wedlock are likely to suffer from disagreements with their spouses. Lack of communication may be the prime reason, therefore, it may get necessary to practice humility to resolve matters to bridge the gap. Moreover, the period is likely to get unfavourable for office professionals looking out for a job change. Miscommunication with colleagues may be indicated. Before leaving for official meetings ,try to keep yourself abreast with the latest developments at the workplace. Those working as freelancers may come across good opportunities this month. You may gain success with your hard work and determination. Take care of your expenses and plan out things lest you may burn a hole in your pocket. If necessary take help from an expert. Try and avoid extravagance. Unplanned expenses pertaining to land related matters may crop.

Medical bills may also be on the rise. In academics, medical students may find the time suitable to get into research related studies. You may get an opportunity to travel abroad for higher learning or research related assignments. Despite good immunity levels there may be health concerns. Stress and negative thinking may adversely affect your mental conditions.

There may be good chances for a new business proposal for Taurus this month. You are likely to come across excellent business deals or take up a new job that may give you immense pleasure. All the same, you may need to come up with unique ideas to put up a strong impression at the workplace. Businessmen may enter into conflicts or ego clashes with business partners that may bring losses in the initial part of the month. Hence, businesses may need to get set for new plans. In relationships, there may be chances of disagreements, that may raise concern. Marriage couples in a legal battle may experience challenging situations during the month. As far as financial matters are concerned, the period may bring average results. On the domestic front expenses are likely to soar with sudden changes or repair work of electronic household items.

Savings may get affected. Students may incur expenditure related to new courses. The month promises them success in research and distance learning courses. Those aspiring for admissions in fashion or arts-related subjects may witness good progress this month. You might also be inclined towards learning philosophy or religious scriptures. Well, a workaholic attitude may certainly produce bad health, so it may be advisable to maintain proper balance between personal and professional life. Plan and follow a nutritious diet chart along with daily exercises. Be careful with your eating habits and sleep patterns for healthy fitness levels.

Gemini you may be flooded with more and more projects ideas this month. Your ability to experiment may help you to get the best out of it. Whatever be your specific career choice or your interests, the combination of your tenacity, drive, and sheer endurance may be a winning one. People may not be able to survive with your competing energy and willingness. In relationships you may find yourself itching for emotional intensity and wild romance besides longing to swept away by a grand passion. The period may make you feel aloof from your family members too. Although, you may be blamed for this.

As the head of the family you may need to ponder about your responsibilities towards your loved ones. However, the period may bring into light your imaginative, biased and always worrying nature. This may break you down and you may feel incapable of taking any decision like a man. Basically, you may be person attracted to novelties and therefore you may get attached to some new projects at work that may bring you gains without much delay. As per your zodiac sign, the phase is likely to make you undergo some complex situations for few days. You may find yourself restless and argumentative in every task you undertake. You may lack the power to analyze and come to an intelligent conclusive decision. Although, it may prove to be a period for better prospects as your co-workers may turn helpful in making you attain your desired goals. Moments of rejoicing may take place as you may find ways to seek thrills in your favourite style.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

This month is likely to bring excellent opportunities for growth besides providing Cancer the strength to stand firm against all odds and obstacles. However, the period may get a little hectic as patience and skills may be put to test.

Maintain a balanced personality the phase may not have a smooth sailing! Any decisions that you make may have a significant impact on your career. The transiting Saturn suggests that you may also need to review or recreate your plan to enhance your financial strength and accomplish the desired results. Furthermore, accurate planning may improve the status of your monetary transactions.

New opportunities are likely to come rolling towards you. With the auspicious effect of Jupiter you may perform well, so make sure you exploit the situation to finish off and resolve pending tasks. The transit of Venus and Mercury indicates the period to be good to execute plans that you may have kept in your store for your beloved ones. It may be a fruitful time to communicate new ideas and strategies with family to boost your relations. However, you may need to take precautions as some tricky situations are likely to soar. Learn to manage issues with a cool head to avoid jeopardizing your relationship.

Besides, students may also be able to implement their planning processes successfully, giving a push to performances that may tremendously increase during the phase. As a consequence, results are likely to get positively impacted. In health matters, you may be endowed with great stamina that may bring awareness to help prevent against illnesses during this month.

Leo, you may get determined to get rid of the hovering cloud of stagnation during the month. With positive impact of Saturn and Jupiter you may get passionate about performing better, making way to move ahead in your pursuits. However, the transiting Mercury may make you restless with regards to your current state of affairs in the professional domain. Learn to adopt to a methodical way to forge ahead. Exercise patience as it may help to witness encouraging exposure to showcase your talents in the latter part of the month. In financial matters, the stars may favour you, so invest productively. Those intending to buy residential plots may get support from planets to ahead with the deal.

In love and relationships the impact of Venus may help in harmonizing your romantic life. You may receive suitable love proposals. Those in committed relationships are sure to get support from their partners. Students may encounter distractions in the initial phase of the month. Performances may show some improvement but results may still remain below expectations until mid-month. Your prospects may gradually start getting brighter with the progression of the month. Health concerns may rise for unknown reasons that may raise stress levels and make you feel uncomfortable. You may run low on energy meters however things may progressively improve with rise in immunity levels.

You may effectively use the good experiences gained in your professional life from Saturn and Jupiter this month. However, it may test your skills and patience. So don’t expect immediate results. Be careful, as luck may not favor you entirely. Hopefully with the advancement of the month you may be able to work efficiently and succeed in strengthening your position. Entrepreneurs may be able to expand their customer base. Career graphs are likely to go up during the latter part of the month. The planet of Venus may enhance your financial status. However, this month may call for building new strategies and reviewing plans. Refrain from hasty decision making in any new investments during this phase. The latter half of the month is likely to strengthen your financial position gradually. Venus may bring fresh energy in your love life, but your relationship may require more attention. Your romantic bond may suffer as time progresses in case you are unable to manage personal ties. However, the planetary impact may help you to handle your relationships efficiently.

Your patience and commitment may support you. Studying new skills and a variety of extracurricular activities may bring mental stimulation for students during this month. Useful guidance from mentors is likely to make a positive impact on your educational progress. Besides, you may be rewarded for your sustained efforts. With good planetary support you may regain vitality this month. But, make sure you don't ignore health concerns. All the same, despite some fluctuations in health due to irregular lifestyle or negligence, you may be able to manage it efficiently!

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

Libra you may get over some of your past eccentricities, which may have been difficult to adjust publicly, through hard work and meditation. You are likely to deal with people more confidently. The period advises you to get gentle with yourself and your loved ones. Immense pressure at the moment may make it difficult to cope up and manage relationships. The period may engulf you with a feeling of going through a storm that causes to feel defensive and fearful. Your super sensitive feelings are likely to hamper your personal progress as well. Make sure you loosen up, taking things a little less seriously rather than reacting to it. Children and other family members may rely more on you for a solution to their problems. There may be nothing astonishing in feeling exhausted especially if you are a woman! On the professional front whatever projects you undertake this week may turn fruitful. Your zodiac sign may be in a favourable position making you look more charming, intellectual, dynamically enthusiastic, and adaptable. Your virtuous nature of forgiving people may earn you respect among loved ones in this period. However, getting too analytical and criticizing on minor issues may detach you from your children. As a responsible parent it may be your duty to control them but an overdose of anything may not bring good results at all times. Health may be in an excellent condition this month.

Students may need to get focused on their tasks as some are likely to get prone to distractions during the period.

The month may be good month for most of you who may be looking forward for some surprises that may get rewarding. This may eventually improve your confidence and give a push to your efforts and dedication. Some of you may do well in finding a new job, that may improve your fortune and career. Income may also see a rise with this, but the only advice that may come handy is to not move to another job in chase for a higher income. Though this may not be an ideal approach but it may be the demand of the situation. Those planning to collaborate with overseas contacts and make a fortune, the month may appear promising for the same. Have a clear working on your documents as it may bring some improvement in your earnings. Past domestic issues related to a family dispute are also likely to be seen this month that may affect your moods. However, you may now be able to easily resolve all your differences. Patience may be needed to make sure you achieve what you desire, else this may affect your confidence. Health issues may need attention. You may need to be more careful about your diet and exercise this month as it is likely to improve your fitness and immunity levels. Stay focused to make sure you are doing well. Some of you may plan to take a personal loan that may not be worth spending on unnecessary items. It may turn to be complete waste of your hard-earned money and even the money that you may plan to raise via loans.

The month may bring auspicious results for some Sagittarius natives. Though, this may appear to be average initially, but as the latter part of the month progresses you may come in terms of ground reality and witness situations turning into your favour. The transit of Mars and Mercury may propel you to sharpen your communication skills at some level. If you make alterations in these aspects, you may get assured of doing well in all your preparations. Along with prestige at the workplace, respect-honour may be achieved in society by improving your communication skills. Further, sudden financial gains are likely possible for the month. Despite a pause in monetary gains, you may still see some drops of income flowing in through investments. Social prestige may rise around this phase. Despite lack of support from colleagues and friends, you may get into the mood of completing tasks in the work area with full confidence. There may be showers of love and support from the family around this time. There is a likelihood of establishing harmonious relations with influential people.

Gentle support may be gained from friends and acquaintances as well.

Students pursuing higher studies are likely to do well this month. Some of you may perform well in your prelims scheduled for the month. Furthermore, you are likely to relocate to a new place if there may be any such plans in the long run. It may be a good time for both academics and career growth opportunities. Good news related to children may bring immense happiness.

Travels may turn profitable. A gathering or a celebration at home may bring proximity and warmth between family members!

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

The month may be a period of disarray as you may not have an option to curb your inclination towards getting careless and lethargic. Tension and minor interruptions may occupy your concentration during this month. You may lack of courage, that may prompt dissatisfaction and despair. However, brain games may assume an extraordinary role in creating favorable circumstances for you. You are likely to have an option of making right choices with your knowledge and affability. This may be an incredible time to recover your money from creditors. However, the planetary position may caution you from marital and professional issues that may lead to disagreements and debates with your partner. Be extra careful with your conduct and keep a control over your discourse lest you may fall into verbal battles with your business or life partners. Firms dealing with technical consultants, particularly with government or semi-government organizations may do well this month. Avoid property dealings especially after the second half of the month. You may likewise take short business trips, that may end up being extremely profitable for you. Ensure you make productive use of this positive time and exploit it to the fullest. Maintain every possible step that is likely to enable you to be wise and smart in your dealings. This may assist you in staying abreast of others in the phase. Refrain from lending money to anyone who may not be worthwhile as there may be meagre chances of recovery.

The transit of the Sun predicts that you might receive favours from senior authorities or the government in your career. Communication and your word of mouth are likely to play a vital role at the workplace and business. You may receive support from elders. There may be some challenging times in bonding with siblings, that may demand attention.

Your relationship with your mother may improve and strengthen during this period. Make sure you follow her guidance to enhance your prospects not only in your education but also your career. A gathering or a small get together with family members may rejuvenate your personal ties this month. You may acquire good knowledge and indulge in the process of self-improvement with great determination and a positive mindset. You may have to shoulder unplanned work responsibilities during this phase. If unsure, refrain from making commitments about it’s fulfillment. Keep negative thoughts and unnecessary discussions with others at bay. Plan out matters systematically so that you do not get into a dilemma to get things done within a certain time frame. In health matters, the Sun-Ketu transit advises you to avoid excessive use of electronic gadgets. Resort to regular meditation sessions before going to bed!

The foundation of a new journey in your professional and personal pursuits may happen during this month. You are likely to gain good experience through travelling and journeys related to your job in the phase. Students might get success in higher studies. Academics may face some ups and downs with uncertain challenges coming up for students. Although, determination and discipline may help them to get expected results. Unplanned traveling related to work is foreseen for the month. Moreover, there may be a possibility of a job change. Conflicts or ego clashes related to a job with bosses may be predicted. Hence, this month may remain stressful on the professional front. Besides, you are likely to shoulder responsibilities that may suddenly arise on the domestic front.

Female colleagues and siblings may help you in your career prospects. You may spend pleasure times with your children this month. Planning a trip or a small vacation with them may improve and strengthen your relationship with them. You may develop an unusual feeling about your spouse’s childlike personality or weak decision-making ability. Nevertheless, try to be clear with your thoughts and exercise patience while interacting with your partner.

Avoid aggression to subdue marital discord. The transit of planets also predicts that you may come across sleepless nights. Learning scriptures may enrich you with new insights and strengthen your belief apart from providing a positive outlook in your life. Religious deeds and charity may improve your luck and financial conditions as well. The period may not be favorable for major investments in property or land. With luck and support from friends, the probability of making financial gains may increase. Proper fitness levels may be maintained through meditation and healthy eating.

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

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"What If Afghanistan Can't Beat NZ?": Watch Ravindra Jadeja's Epic Reply In Press Conference T20 World Cup: India are still relying on Afghanistan beating New Zealand to have any chance of reaching the last four.

India kept their hopes alive of reaching the T20 World Cup semi-finals with a massive eight-wicket win over Scotland in a Super 12 fixture in Dubai on Friday.

After bowling out the Scottish for a paltry 85, India chased down the target in just 6.3 overs to give their net run-rate a massive boost. But India are still relying on Afghanistan to beat New Zealand to have any chance of reaching the last four. If New Zealand beat the Afghans in their final Super 12 match on Sunday, India will be out. When asked about this scenario during the press conference post India's

win over Scotland, Ravindra Jadeja came up with a blunt answer to leave everybody in splits.

If Afghanistan beat New Zealand, only then do we have a chance. But what if Afghanistan can't beat New Zealand, then? asked a journalist.

"Toh phir bag pack karke

ghar jayenge, aur kya (Then, we will pack our bags and go home, what else," replied Jadeja.

On Friday, things perfectly fell into place for India right from the outset. Virat Kohli finally won the toss and put Scotland to bat and from then on in, it was one-way traffic as India dominated

proceedings.

Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja took three wickets each while Jasprit Bumrah took two as Scotland were skittled out for 85 in 17.4 overs.

Just four Scottish players got into double figures.

KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma gave India a blistering start, adding 70 runs for the opening wicket in just 30 balls. Rahul smashed a 19-ball 50 while Rohit blasted 30 runs off 16 balls in India's whirlwind job.

Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Kumar finished things off as India took just 39 balls to reach the target.

India will be hoping Afghanistan do them a huge favour by beating New Zealand on Sunday.

Tennis-Osaka hints at return with photos of her back on court Naomi Osaka hinted she had resumed training after posting photos of herself standing on a tennis court and holding a racket.

The Japanese former world number one said she was taking a break from the sport to focus on her mental health following her shock third-round exit at the U.S. Open in September.

The four-time Grand Slam champion has struggled for form since she withdrew from the French Open in May after a row with tournament officials over her decision to boycott mandatory press conferences, which she said

had a negative impact on her mental well-being.

Following her defeat by Canadian Leylah Fernandez at Flushing Meadows, Osaka

said she did not know when she would play her next match.

“Kinda rusty but feels good to be back,” the 24-year-

old posted on Twitter along with a photo of her smiling and leaning against the net in workout gear.

“I really want to say thank you everyone for all the kind messages, I really appreciate it.”

Osaka shot to global fame on the back of her triumphs on the sport’s biggest stages before opening up a discussion on mental health that reverberated beyond tennis.

It remains to be seen whether she will compete at January’s Australian Open, where she is a two-time champion.

Rugby-Scotland pick strong team to take on Australia

EDINBURGH – Scotland picked a near full strength side to face Australia in Sunday’s test at Murrayfield, boosted by the inclusion of players from clubs in England and France who were not available for last weekend’s test win over Tonga.

Coach Gregor Townsend kept faith in the team which ended this year’s Six Nations with a win against France in Paris, with only prop Rory Sutherland missing through injury and replaced at loosehead by Pierre Schoeman who won his first cap last weekend.

“It was a little surprising to have almost all 15 available six months after that game. We’ve been able to select an experienced team and aim to use the remaining Autumn fixtures to build our game through improving week on week,” said Townsend.

“This is a great opportunity to test ourselves against an inform side, who are also one of the leading teams in world rugby,” he told a news conference.

Scotland, who also meet

world champions South Africa on Nov. 13 and Japan seven days later at Murrayfield, named two uncapped players among the replacements in Sale Sharks hooker Ewan Ashman and Bath backrow forward Josh Bayliss.

Ashman get a chance after former skipper Stuart McInally fell ill this week, Townsend said.

Winger Kyle Steyn loses his place to Darcy Graham despite scoring four tries against the Tongans in the 60-14 victory nL1N2RQ0B4.

Graham played fullback last week.

Team: 15-Stuart Hogg (capt.), 14-Darcy Graham, 13-Chris Harris, 12-Sam Johnson, 11-Duhan van der Merwe, 10-Finn Russell, 9-Ali Price, 8-Matt Fagerson, 7-Hamish Watson, 6-Jamie Ritchie, 5-Grant Gilchrist, 4-Sam Skinner, 3-Zander Fagerson, 2-George Turner, 1-Pierre Schoeman Replacements: 16-Ewan Ashman, 17-Jamie Bhatti, 18-Oli Kebble, 19-Jamie Hodgson, 20-Josh Bayliss, 21-George Horne, 22-Adam Hastings, 23-Kyle Steyn.

November International: Flying Fijians defeat fighting Spain outfit in Madrid

Proteas topple England in ‘bittersweet’ win but miss WC semis despite brilliant hat-trick Rassie van der Dussen smashed an unbeaten 94 as South Africa beat England by 10 runs but failed to qualify for the semi-finals of the Twenty20 World Cup on Saturday.

Group 1 winners England and Australia, who beat West Indies in the first match of the day, made the final four from the six-team pool.

South Africa posted 189 for two after Van de Dussen smashed six sixes in his 60ball knock but needed to limit England to 131 or fewer to edge out Australia on net runrate.

England, who topped the group when they passed 109, finished on 179-8 after a hattrick by Kagiso Rabada in the final over. It was England’s first loss in five matches.

Pakistan are already through to the semi-finals

from Group 2 with India, New Zealand and Afghanistan fighting for the last spot.

“Tough to bring net runrate into effect in our last game, especially against a side like England.”

Van der Dussen and Aiden Markram, who hit 52 off 25 balls, put on an unbeaten attacking partnership of 103 for the third wicket to give their team a challenging total.

England elected to field first and Moeen Ali struck early when he bowled Reeza Hendricks for two.

Quinton de Kock and Van der Dussen rebuilt the innings with their second-wicket stand of 71. Adil Rashid broke the stand as he sent back de Kock out for 34 with his leg spin. But Van der Dussen stood firm and mixed the right dose of caution and aggression to reach his half-century in 37

52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

balls. He then combined with Markram to take the assault to the bowlers. The pair attacked Chris Woakes in his fourth over – the 16th of the innings, hitting three sixes between them to add 21 runs.

Markram reached his fifty off 24 balls with a six off Chris Jordan. He hit two fours and four sixes.

In reply, England started well with Jason Roy and Jos Buttler hitting boundaries in the first four overs.

But Roy suffered a calf injury issue while taking a run with Buttler and had to be helped off the field.

“Jason Roy going down doesn’t help, but we thought we were right in it throughout.

Every game tests us in different ways,” said England captain Eoin Morgan.

South Africa seized the opportunity and Anrich

Nortje send back Buttler, for 26, in the next over. Then Tabraiz Shamsi trapped Jonny Bairstow lbw for one.

Moeen, who struck 37 off 27 balls, and Dawid Malan hit back in a partnership of 51 but Shamsi once again put the brakes.

Moeen hit Shamsi for a towering six but got out next ball attempting another big one which instead went straight into the hands of David Miller.

Malan kept up the attack with Liam Livingston, who hit Rabada for three straight sixes, to keep the chase on track despite losing his partner in the next over.

But Livingstone fell for 28 and South African bowlers took charge. Rabada sent back Chris Woakes, Morgan and Chris Jordan for the tournament’s third hat-trick.

Fiji took down a fighting Spain outfit 43-13 when they kicked off their European tour in Madrid early this morning (local time).

The Flying Fijians trailed a point behind Spain 13-12 in the first half, with tries from Mesulame Kunavula and Setareki Tuituvu.

Fijian captain Waisea Nayacalevu opened the second half with a try and a conversion from Ben Volavola.

And a little under seven minutes and former 7s rep Peni Ravai penetrated the Spanish defence to score another try, and Volavola’s successful conversion put Fiji

further in the lead 24-13.

After 17 minutes of play, Aminiasi Tuimaba scored his fourth try for Fiji – 31-13.

And after 26 minutes of play, 29-year-old Sam Matavesi’s strong carry earned the team a try, and successfully converted by Volavola to widen their lead 38-13.

Josua Tuisova also scored a try after 34 minutes of play, taking Fiji’s points up to 43-13.

Fiji continues their Northern Hemisphere November International tour next with Wales.

Fiji is ranked 11th in the world.

Indian Business community shine at Lord Mayors Multicultural Business Awards

BRISBANE, at the recent Lord Mayors Multicultural Business Awards, two out of the three main awards were won by businesses run by people of Indian Origin.

These awards came about from a suggestion by the members of Lord Mayors multicultural roundtable some years back. Members of the multicultural roundtable normally arrange tables from their respective communities at the awards night.

Each year the City celebrates some of our best and brightest business leaders at the Lord Mayor’s Multicultural Business Dinner and Awards, and 2021 is no exception. After a tough year for businesses, Brisbane City Council showcased the achievements of seven Brisbane entrepreneurs whose hard work, perseverance and determination has seen them nurture successful business ventures. Their businesses have not only found a commercial niche but have also had a hand in building the success of Brisbane.

Brisbane is home to residents originally from more than 200 countries around the world and this cultural tapestry is part of

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what residents love about living in our great city. This year they received a record number of applications for the awards, reflecting the strong multicultural business community we have in the city. The outstanding finalists represent six different cultural backgrounds - each with their unique story.

Brisbane’s multicultural business community is strong, resilient and extremely talented and the awards always unearth the exceptional stories behind the endeavours of the city’s outstanding of local business leaders.

Congratulations to all finalists, including the three award winners.

Multicultural Business Leader of the Year Local business owner Harish Arora has been crowned 2021 Multicultural Business Leader of the Year, after taking his logistics business from a home startup, to the global stage.

Mr Arora migrated to Australia from India in 2007 and worked three jobs to support his engineering study. In 2012, he launched OZ Labourforce from his

Harish Arora lounge room and has since grown the organisation into an international, specialised logistics services company that currently employs more than 200 staff and provides services to countries including New Zealand, North America and Canada Nick Xynias Multicultural Young Businessperson of the Year Young businessperson

T

Ashawani Soni has taken home the 2021 Nick Xynias Multicultural Young Businessperson of the Year award, recognising his innovative homebased healthcare support enterprise.

Mr Soni migrated to Australia in 2006 and after gaining experience in the aged care sector, branched out on his own in 2018 at the age of 30 to establish his own business,

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Holistic Home Care.

His company is a certified NDIS provider, operating with 75 employees and now providing support to thousands of Brisbane residents each week.

Multicultural Entrepreneur of the Year This year’s Multicultural Entrepreneur of the Year award goes to renowned Brisbane pastry chef Rejoice

Thomson, recognising her successful cultural dining enterprise.

Mrs Thomson opened Dovetail Social, a popular cafe in Highgate Hill in 2019, and her has brought a taste of her heritage to diners through her food and desserts. Her now famous Ambassador’s High Tea was recently served to the Philippines Ambassador to Australia, Hon. Hellen De La Vega.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 53

54 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021 — 55

56 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2021