Bit Oct 14

Indian Times

Brisbane

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 12, Number 1 Saturday, October 11, 2014

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

Australia, Turkey join fight against Islamic State

• Report page 6

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From the Publisher

Kohin K ohin o or Fashion & Jeweller Fa

1969 Logan Rd,

upper Mt Gravatt. Qld 4122 P: 07 3349 3535 / 0449 159617

WELCOME to October, Spring has sprung and daylight savings in applicable states has begun. October 2014 has brought about another change, guess what we won’t have to display rego stickers any more, one less trouble that I will not get myself into.

Hope everyone had a wonderful time during Navratri, it is just getting bigger ever year, we have had so many artists coming to Brisbane for Garba performances.

Navratri leading into Dussehera and Diwali, very auspicious time, while we enjoy the festive season spare a thought for the less fortunate, ones who are is hospital, ones who are away from their families and ones that are no longer with us. Make sure that a part of your celebrations includes donating to charity or volunteering for your community, whichever you are capable of doing.

In our Diwali issue together with your Diwali message we have a section where you can pay tribute to your nears and dears who are not with us any more.

May I wish everyone a very Happy Diwali and a prosperous new year, may goddess Laxmi shower upon you the boon of good wealth and health.

To all our Muslim brothers and sisters hope you had a wonder Eid –Al Adha.

On a serious note we have had some troubling times with the terrorist attacks and mistreatment of Muslim community dominating the news.

I hear both sides of the debate; it is really unfortunate situation with a lot of damage done. Ethnic communities are not confident in wearing their national costumes when going out to their cultural and religious functions some fear mistaken identity could incite trouble, so this in fact affects the community at large.

Everyone should feel free to wear what they want to without fear of intimidation, be it beachwear at the beach or religious attire in a place of worship.

There is however the question on national security, which is utterly important, the whole situation is a matter of communica-

tion and a happy medium needs to be found.

The negative image needs to be countered with positive moves and not with retaliation as the later only aggravates and makes the situation worse.

I have attended meeting with QPS and Muslim community, and must commend QPS for the work that they are doing especially with community outreach. Australia is what Australia is; it has come a long way from the White Australia policy. There have been many communities including the first Australians who have been subject of racial discrimination.

My personal view is that all communities need to show respect to the land they we have chosen as our home, obey and uphold its laws, we are allowed to practice our religion and traditions, what more should we demand, respect is earned and not demanded so as an individual, a community too needs to earn the respect by good and positive deeds for the greater community, if there are negative elements out there in the name of a community the community needs to come out in full force and denounce that, they need to get the message out there they these are a minority and that they do not hold the view of the majority.

From my personal experience, whenever an issue is highlighted in the media that issue becomes even bigger and more in the face. During the unrest within the International Indian students the same thing happened, you know what they say about a car, that you would never have seen that many same model and colour, until you buy one.

The whole issue is currently in the lime light and hence the increase in the number of incidents. Australia has joined the fight with ISIS and so should everyone.

Until next Month, happy reading Umesh Chandra

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Inside • Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4 • Local News.................................5-25 • Who, What, Where, When...........26 • Diwali Greetings......................28-33 • Health & Well Being................36-39 • Astrology...........................................40 • Real Estate................................41-43 • Business Directory.......................44-45 • Classifieds..........................................45 • What’s On................................46-47 • Bollywood & Entertainment...48-49 • Sport..........................................50-51

A D ivi sio n of Qld Multi cultural Time s

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

2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

Indian Times Brisbane

Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra

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

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

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

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

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Diwali D iwali Festival Fe stival C Chinatown hinatow n M Mall, all, FFortitude ortitude V Valley alley

Saturday 25 October f 5 - 10pm f Festival

of Lights f f Vibrant mu sic f Bolly woo d d ancing f D eliciou s local foo d f f Firec rackers f f

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For information about what ’s on in the Valley Malls visit w w w.brisbane.qld.gov.au/valleymalls

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 3

Migration Updates....

Reopening of non-contributory parent and other family Visas FROM 25 September 2014, below mentioned visas in the Family Stream of the Migration Programme are open to new applications: 1. Parent Visa 2. Aged Parent Visa 3. Aged Dependent Relative Visa 4. Remaining Relative Visa 5. Carer Visa Only new applications will be accepted for above mentions Visas.

If you have lodged an application for one of above-mentioned visas after 02 June 2014 and before 25 September 2014 this application is still invalid and cannot be accepted by the Department. It is strongly recommended that you re lodge your application.

Processing Time: Waiting times have increased for these visas based on the limited number of places available and the number of applications received.

The current waiting times for these visas are: - Non – Contributory Parent Visa – approximately 30 years - Carer Visa – approximately 4.5 years - Remaining relative and Aged Dependent Relative – approximately 56 years.

Why the Government is reopening these Visas: The legislation that closed the above mentioned Family Migration Visas on 02 June 2014 was subject to a disallowance movement in the Senate on 25 September 2014. This movement was successful and therefore the closed visas were reopened immediately.

If you applied for a Non-Contributory Parent and Other Family visa before 2 June 2014 (date of the closure) your application will continue to be processed under existing regulations and policy.

Note that for the 2014-15-programme year, 1500 places have been allocated to NonContributory Parent and 500 places to

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

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Other Family. As a result, you can now expect to wait approximately 30 years for a Parent or Aged Parent visa, 4.5 years for a Carer visa and 56 years for an Aged Dependent Relative or Remaining Relative visa.

Certain eligible dependent family members, such as a partner or dependent children can be added to an existing undecided application. You will need to provide evidence of the relationship, including dependency.

It is not a requirement that the Carer Visa Assessment be done before lodging your application, only that you have evidence that you have started the process. The Assessment must, however, be completed before a decision can be made on your Carer visa application.

The Balance of Family test is an objective test designed to assess a parent’s link to Australia compared to any other country.

This assessment requires applicants to demonstrate that at least half of their children are lawfully and permanently resident in Australia or, alternatively, that more of their children reside lawfully and permanently in Australia than in any one single country overseas.

All applicants must meet this requirement to be granted a parent visa and it cannot be waived, even in compelling or exceptional circumstances. It is also not possible for the department to make a subjective assessment of the closeness of a parent’s ties with their children. Therefore, the nature of your relationship with your family members cannot be taken into account for meeting the BoF test.

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

Ajit K Shahi MARN: 1174452

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 5

Australia, Turkey join fight against Islamic State From page 1 AUSTRALIAN aircraft have joined the U.S.- led coalition against Islamic State militants, and special forces troops were deployed in Iraq to assist in the fight, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said.

In a nationally televised news conference, Tony Abbott said the Australian troops would be engaged in an “advise and assist” capacity to support the Iraqi army in its battle against the militant Islamist group.

The United States has been bombing Islamic State and other groups in Syria for almost two weeks with the help of Arab allies, and hitting targets in neighboring Iraq since August.

European countries have joined the campaign in Iraq but not in Syria.

Last month, Tony Abbott sent aircraft and 600 personnel to the United Arab Emirates in preparation for joining the coalition. He has since said it was likely Australian aircraft would join the strikes to combat Islamic State, which he described as a “murderous death cult.”

While the involvement of Australian aircraft had been flagged, the use of Australian troops on the ground in Iraq was not as widely anticipated.

“Today (3 Oct), cabinet has authorized Australian airstrikes in Iraq at the request of the Iraqi government and in support of the Iraqi government,” Abbott said. “Also, subject to final legal documentation, cabinet has authorized the deployment of Australian special forces into Iraq to advise and assist Iraqi forces.”

Australia’s entry to the coalition comes after Turkey’s parliament gave the government new powers to launch military incursions into Syria and Iraq, and to allow foreign forces to use its territory for possible operations against the Islamic State group.

The move opens the way for Turkey, a NATO member with a large and modern military, to play a more robust role in the

U.S.-led coalition against the Sunni militants. However, Turkey has yet to define what that role might be.

The vote came as the extremists pressed their offensive against the beleaguered Kurdish town of Kobani, also known as Ayn Arab, along Syria’s border with Turkey. The assault, which has forced some 160,000 Syrians to flee across the frontier in recent days, left the Kurdish militiamen scrambling to repel the militants’ advance into the town’s outskirts.

The assault came despite renewed U.S.-led airstrikes in the area overnight.

Turkey’s parliament had previously approved operations into Iraq and Syria to attack Kurdish separatists or to thwart threats from the Syrian regime. The motion, which passed 298-98, expands those powers to address threats from the Islamic State militants who control a large cross-border swath of Iraq and Syria, in some cases right up to the Turkish border.

Asked what measures Turkey would take after the motion was approved, Defense Minister Ismet Yilmaz said: “Don’t expect any immediate steps.”

“The motion prepares the legal ground for possible interventions, but it is too early to say what those interventions will be,” said Dogu Ergil, a professor of political science and a columnist for Today’s Zaman newspaper.

The motion could allow Iraqi Kurdish fighters to use Turkey’s territory to safely cross into Syria to help Syrian Kurdish forces there, or permit the deployment of coalition forces’ drones, Ergil said.

Turkey could also allow its air base in Incirlik, some 160 kilometers (100 miles) from the Syrian border, to be used by allied planes or for logistics.

Turkey had been reluctant to join its NATO allies in a coalition against the militants, citing worries about the safety of Turkish hostages held by the group, but reversed its decision after the hostages were released last month.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called

6 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

for the creation of a buffer zone inside Syria as well as a no-fly zone to secure Turkey’s borders and stem the flow of refugees. He has also called for military training and equipment for the Syrian opposition fighting the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

“In the struggle against terrorism, we are open and ready for every kind of cooperation. However, Turkey is not a country that will allow itself to be used for temporary solutions,” Erdogan said Wednesday 1 October.

“An effective struggle against ISIL or other terror organizations will be our priority,” Erdogan said, using an alternative name for the Islamic State group. “The immediate removal of the administration in Damascus, Syria’s territorial unity and the installation of an administration which embraces all will continue to be our priority.”

In Syria, Ismet Sheikh Hasan, a senior fighter, said the Kurdish forces were preparing for urban clashes in Kobani in a desperate attempt to repel Islamic State militants.

“We are preparing ourselves for street battles,” Hasan said. “They still haven’t entered Kobani, but we are preparing ourselves.”

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an activist group tracking the Syrian conflict, reported that Islamic State fighters were, in some cases, just hundreds of yards from Kobani on its eastern and southeastern side. The militants were about a mile away on the southern side of town.

In a statement, the observatory said it had “real fears” that the militants would storm Kobani and “butcher civilians remaining in the city.”

Nasser Haj Mansour, a defense official in Syria’s Kurdish region, said Islamic State fighters were sporadically shelling Kobani as they fortified their positions on the outskirts of town.

“It seems they are getting ready for a long battle,” Haj Mansour said of the jihadi fighters. “Inside Kobani, forces are getting

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ready to repel the group in case there is an attack.”

Haj Mansour said some civilians still remained in the town, and predicted the Islamic State group would face a more difficult time once fighting moves inside Kobani, where the Kurdish forces know its terrain and can launch house-to-house guerrilla warfare.

On Thursday 2 October, U.S.-led coalition aircraft carried out four airstrikes against Islamic State targets inside Syria, including one that destroyed a militant checkpoint near Kobani, the U.S. Central Command said. Others struck targets north of Sinjar Mountain, west of Raqqah and east of Aleppo, it said.

Islamic State militants also launched an assault on the western Iraqi town of Hit, military spokesman Qassim al-Moussawi said. The attack started at dawn when the militants, using at least three suicide bombers, struck checkpoints at the town’s entrances, causing casualties among the security forces, al-Moussawi said.

The battle over Hit in Anbar province, 85 miles west of Baghdad, came as Iraqi Kurdish security forces, known as peshmerga, managed to dislodge the militants from the northwestern Iraqi towns of Rabia, Zumar and Mahmoudiyah, with the assistance of airstrikes by the U.S.-led coalition.

U.S. Central Command said late Thursday that coalition aircraft, including those from Britain, took part in airstrikes around Baghdad, Mosul, Fallujah, Ramadi and Sinjar.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy said a Marine who ejected from a plane over the Persian Gulf on Wednesday was “presumed lost at sea,” marking the first reported U.S. fatality from the operation against the Islamic State group. The Marine, whose name was withheld pending notification of family, was deployed aboard the USS Makin Island, which is supporting military operations against the extremist group in Iraq and Syria.

Source Israelhayom

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 7

Brisbane firm awarded “Best practice in Refugee Law in Australia” Order O rder a green bin green b in and a nd ssave ave $30! $ 30!

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Your new bin will cost just $18.63 a quar ter and will be collec ted for tnightly from your home.

Green waste rec ycling bins are an easy and af fordable way to keep your garden tidy.

Recycling your lawn clippings, prunings and leaves is good for the environment and ensures your garden waste is reused as compost and mulch, helping to create a more sustainable, clean and green cit y.

Order now and save. Visit w w w.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Brisbane Cit y Council on (07) 3403 8888.

8 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

• Naiker Associates Director, Madhukar Naiker.

BRISBANE based firm Naiker Associates is honoured to receive UK based Acquisition International's 2014 Global Mobility & Immigration Awards for "Best Practice in Refugee Law in Australia". The awards are handed out solely on merit and are awarded to only the most deserving businesses who have been nominated by their clients, peers and industry experts, for their outstanding works over the past 12 months.

The award recognises global mobility experts for their expertise and excellence to service in what is a highly specialised field.

Naiker Associates Director, Madhukar Naiker said “To be recognised for our work in a field which includes award winners like Ernst & Young and Fragomen is truly humbling. We would like to thank all who have supported us endlessly in Australia and abroad for our work in a global context.”

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Speaking about the awards, coordinator Sameena Yates said “As more businesses transcend international boundaries, and with cross-border strategy high on many agendas, excellence in the relocation, immigration and mobility marketplace is fast becoming a cornerstone of many of the world’s most successful businesses”.

Acquisition International recognised firms who are most innovative, forward thinking and client friendly that have transformed the way in which companies and individuals do business, recognising law firms, financiers, relocation specialists and global mobility experts for their expertise and excellence in this highly specialised field.

Naiker Associates specialises in complex immigration cases related to local, regional and global refugee matters and associated matters in international law, humanitarian law, border security and foreign affairs.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 9

Arya Samajs big land purchase for Community Hall

Garba Night 2014 huge success for Gujju Lions GUJJU Lions Association of Brisbane celebrated their 4th Garba Night with free entry in Brisbane, the association is thankful to event sponsors, Gujarati community, Hemant Chauhan group, Gujarati associations, and Gujju Lions team who made Garba Night 2014 successful.

Akademi award winner singer Hemant Chauhan produced a real Gujarati traditional Garba, it was a huge Gujarati gathering with about 2200 people attending.

10 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

By Jitendra Deo President APSQ FOR many years now Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland has been investing time and effort in chasing for a centrally located property and finally their efforts have been rewarded. Situated in a incredibly peaceful setting very well located at 198 Learoyd Road, Willawong/Acacia Ridge.

The acreage property is a site to progress a big budget, much needed infrastructure project of a multi-purpose community hall to seat 500 people as well as constructing a residential facility. Recognising that with an increased population in Queensland comes increased pressure on community infrastructure and with scarcity of good community halls thus the motivation to buy the property and build the community centre.

This property purchase is truly an affirmation of our true commitment to move our community forward to nation building and elevate the lives of all our people.

The multipurpose hall will be able to cater for a wide variety of functions, such as Havan Yaj, Weddings, Community meetings, Seminars, Training events, Library, Receptions, Concerts, Fitness classes, Recreational activities, Art classes etc.The centre will be utilized to promote Vedic

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teachings, Yoga, Meditation, Hindi , Indian culture, Languages, Traditions and Music.

The provision of this infrastructure provides a broader community benefit as well as it will be utilised by various organisations and individuals.

Our organisation has come a long way and has made a significant contribution to larger Indian community by promoting Vedic teachings, Indian culture, language and has involved younger generation in activities such as yoga, music, community, charity work etc. and providing unwavering support for a culturally diverse multicultural community.

The purpose of the centre will be to provide spaces where the community can run special events properly, attend regular activities and utilise services and to ensure the facility is around for our future generations. With a residential house and a Yajshalla currently on the property APSQ conducts regular Havan Yaj Satsang programme on every Sunday from 2pm.

It was very heartening to note the endorsement of the proposed project from the wider Brisbane and Queensland community and we anticipate their continued assistance to accomplish this significant development for various community organisations and individuals.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 11

Underwood just got a little sweeter! Factory direct outlet “World of Lollies” open to the public!

WORLD of Lollies opened mid September, much to the delight of customers who can now access those hard to find favourites as well as current novelty items including Ninja Turtles, Smurfs and SpongeBob Square Pants.

The Queensland owned and family owned company headed by Riaz Gutta also sell wholesale and have extensive knowledge of product and a strong focus on customer service.

Wanting to cater to everyone’s needs World of Lollies specializes in international and bulk confectionery with products from USA, Britain, New Zealand, South Africa, Bosnia, Germany, Poland, Amsterdam, Spain, Asia and Switzerland. Customers have the option of buying bulk or smaller quantities of 3kg and single products.

Located at the rear of the store is a grocery section with a variety of items from around the world. With affordable prices and extensive ranges on offer there really is something for everyone!

World of Lollies has a large range of Party items available in single colours which are perfect for creating a themed Candy Buffet.

Candy Buffets are perfect for a Wedding, Engagement, Baby Shower, Birthday and other special events. They have become very popular, they are aesthetically appealing and make every occasion one to remember.

Details.....World of Lollies

3 DAY GRAND OPENING SALE! 10, 11 & 12th October 2938 Logan Rd, Underwood, Qld 4119 PH: 07 3172 2875 - Follow on Facebook.

Planning and event and choosing schemes can be overwhelming, don’t worry, World of Lollies friendly staff will guide you all the way. They will assist with theme, colour selections and for those short on time or knowledge they will also package it all up for you!

To celebrate their opening, World of Lollies is having a 3 Day Grand Opening Sale on 10, 11 and 12th October! 10%

FIJI COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE Ex-Students and Associaties YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED FOR

OFF Storewide for 3 Days! The first 75 customers each day will receive a FREE Sponge Bob party bag and if you spend $50 or more in a single transaction you will receive a case (24 x 250ml bottles) of SMURF drinks for free!

Instore lucky door prizes include Cadbury Gift basket (including IPOD) / Nestle Gift basket, USA / NZ gift basket and Sponge Bob, Ninja Turtles gift basket. So why not treat yourself ant the family and head on down to World of Lollies, 2938 Logan Road, Underwood, Qld 4119. (Full details located on page 6)

Cycling 4000km to give kids a ‘Brighter Future’

RE-UNION / GET TOGETHER / TALONA SESSION Followed by Dinner Venue:

Bay Leaf Restaurant

1/281 Sandgate Rd, Albion 07 3262 9911 (Ref: UBD map 140 E14) Parking at rear of building, entry via Lever St

Saturday 1 November 2014 Starting 6pm till late Cost: $25 / person. Drinks: BYOG or buy at Restaurant 3 Course Meal - ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET Dress: Smart Casual / Bula Shirt For Reservation Please Phone: Virendra Pratap 0451 863 411 / Damiel Kumar 0412 083 466 Email danielkumar48@hotmail.com Vegetarian and non vegetarian Dinner catered RSVP by COB Friday 24 October 2014

BALLINA resident and Pride of Australia Nominee Matt Brice, has recently completed a 4,000km solo bicycle trek across India, to raise money for underprivileged children in India.

Over a period of 7 months, Matt cycled through 9 states in India, all of which have their own unique culture and traditions.

Cycling through Kerala, a state situated on the tropical Malabar Coast of southwestern

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India was one of the highlights of Matt’s journey, and is a place that he believes is worth sharing. So….Matt would like to invite people from all walks of like to join him this December for an 8-day charity cycle tour from Fort Kochi to Trivandrum in Kerala, India. You will travel 240km through peaceful villages and under the shade of coconut trees (4 x 60km days with 3 Days off).

All money raised from this tour will go directly to www.forgetmenot.org.au. This hardworking little Aussie charity will continue to fund The Brighter Futures Study Centre, which provides for 82 children from the slum fringe in Noida, New Delhi.

The Centre’s function is to operate schoolreadiness programs for children, which teaches them basic classroom skills such as participation, cooperation, art, music, and early literacy. All these are l requirements to enter formal schooling.

The Centre is also working with families and local authorities to obtain birth certificates for the children, which is a requirement to enroll into the formal school system.

J oin us on an unforgettable holiday, meet amazing people, and return home knowing you have changed the destiny of some of the most vulnerable children in our world.

Event details: Who: Matt Brice - Cycle for Brighter Futures What: Charity Group Cycling Tour Where: Fort Kochi to Trivandrum, Kerala, India When: 1st - 8th December 2014

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To register your interest contact: enquiries@forgetmenot.org.au For more information on the project or to make a donation visit http://forgetmenot.org.au/onyabike/ Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 13

Brisbane Celebrates Navratri

•Pundit Harihar Shastri Ji officates the pooja and prabachan at Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple Burbank during Navratri.

GRAND Navratri celebrations took place all over Brisbane, at Vishnu Maya Mandir the program included Devi Bhagawat Khatha by - Dharam Guru Param Pujiye Pandit Tripathi Ji, and other programs from 25 September to 3 October included Special Mata Ki Chauki & Kanchika Poojan – on 3 October special Mata Ki Chauki, Garba & Kanchika Poojan was from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.

At Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Burbank the prabachan was by resident Pundit Harihaar Shastri Ji and the program for Navratri went from 25 Sepember to 2 October. The program over this period included Bhajan/Hawan - Srimad Devi Bhagwat Katha / MATA Ki Chowki / Puja Jytoi Parchard / Mata Ki Chauki ( Tea and snacks would be served throughout.)

At Gayatri Mandir in Boondall, the prabachan was conducted by Pundit Praveen Shandil, and it ran from 27th September to 2nd October, dinner was provided on every night.

Numerous Garba Nights were held during Navratri all over Brisbane. All the centres had good attendance despite the crowd being distributed with the available choice of venues.

Let’s now look at what Navratri means; the sharan navratri commences on the first day (pratipada) of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Ashvin. The festival is celebrated for nine nights once every year during the beginning of October, although as the dates of the festival are determined according to the lunar calendar, the festival may be held for a day more or a day less.

Navaratri is celebrated in different ways throughout India. In North India, all three Navaratris are celebrated with much fervor by fasting on all nine days and worshiping the Mother Goddess in her different forms.

The Chaitra Navratri culminates in Ram Navami and the Sharad Navaratri culminates in Durga Puja and Dussehra. The Dussehra of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh is particularly famous in the North. Navratri festival in Gujarat is one of the main festivals. Garba is a dance which people perform on all nine nights, after the Durga Pooja, in groups accompanied by live orchestra or devotional songs.

The last four days of Sharad Navaratri take on a particularly dramatic form in the state of West Bengal in eastern India where they are celebrated as Durga Puja. This is the biggest festival of the year in this state.

Exquisitely crafted and decorated life-size clay idols of the Goddess Durga depicting her slaying the demon Mahishasura are set up in temples and other places.

These idols are then worshiped for five days and immersed in the river on the fifth day.

In Western India, particularly in the state of Gujarat and Mumbai, Navratri is celebrated with the famous Garba and Dandiya-Raas dance. Since the past few years, the Government of Gujarat has been organising the “Navratri Festival Celebrations” on a regular basis for the nine days of Navratri Festival in Gujarat. People from all over Gujarat and even abroad come to participate in the nine-day celebration.

It is also popular throughout India and among Indian communities around the

• Pundit Praveen Shandil Ji officiates main pooja at Gaytri Mandir during Navratri.

world including the UK, Canada, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and USA. In the temples of Goa,on the first day of the seventh month of the Hindu calendar Ashwin, in some temples, a copper pitcher is installed surrounded by clay in which nine varieties of food grains are sown inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

All the nine nights are celebrated by presenting devotional songs, and through religious discourses. Later in • Pundit Harsh Ram Tripathi Ji belssing devotees during Navratri at the night the idol of Vishnu Maya Mandir North Mclean. the goddess is put in a specially-decorated colourful swing and for howdah on the back of a decorated elephant nine nights, this swing is being swung to and taken on a procession, accompanied by the tune of temple music (called as tableaux, dance groups, music bands, decoranavadya) by devotees who throng in rated elephants, horses and camels.[5] The large numbers to participate in the festival. procession starts from the Mysore Palace In South India, people set up steps and and culminates at a place called place idols on them. This is known as golu. Bannimantapa, where the banni tree In Karnataka, Ayudha Puja, the ninth day of (Prosopis spicigera) is worshipped.[5] The Mysore Dasara, is celebrated with the wor- Dasara festivities culminate on the night of ship of implements used in daily life such Vijayadashami with a torchlight parade, as computers, books, vehicles, or kitchen known locally as Panjina Kavayatthu.[5] tools.

In Kerala and in some parts of Karnataka The effort to see the divine in the tools and three days: Ashtami, Navami, and Vijaya objects one uses in daily life is central to Dashami of Sharad Navarathri are celebratthis celebration, so it includes all tools that ed as Sarasvati Puja in which books are help one earn one’s livelihood. Knowledge worshiped. The books are placed for Puja workers go for books, pen or computers, on the Ashtami day in own houses, tradifarmers go for the plough and other agricul- tional nursery schools, or in temples. tural tools, machinery for industrialists and On Vijaya Dashami day, the books are cars/buses/trucks for the transportation ceremoniously taken out for reading and workers—all are decorated with flowers writing after worshiping Sarasvati. Vijaya and worshiped on this day invoking God’s Dashami day is considered auspicious for blessing for success in coming years. It is initiating the children into writing and readbelieved that any new venture such as start- ing, which is called Vidyarambham. Tens ing of business or purchasing of new house- of thousands of children are initiated into hold items on this day is bound to bring the world of letters on this day in Kerala. success and prosperity.

In Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh, Mysore is well known for the festivities people celebrate Bathukamma festival over that take place during the period of Dasara, a period of nine days. It is a kind of navrathe state festival of Karnataka. The Dasara tri celebration. festivities, which are celebrated over a tenHere Navratri is divided into sets of three day period, it made official festival of the days to adore three different aspects of the state by King Raja Wodeyar I in 1610.[5] On supreme goddess or goddesses. the ninth day of Dasara, called First three days: The goddess is separated a Mahanavami, the royal sword is wor- spiritual force called Durga also known as shipped and is taken on a procession of dec- Kali in order to destroy all our evil and orated elephants, camels and horses.[5] On grant boons.

Second three days: The Mother is adored the tenth day, called Vijayadashami, the traditional Dasara procession (locally known as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who as Jumboo Savari) is held on the streets of is considered to have the power of bestowMysore. An image of the Goddess ing on her devotees inexhaustible wealth, as Chamundeshwari is placed on a golden she is the goddess of wealth.

14 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

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The final set of three days is spent in worshiping the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati.

In order to have all-round success in life, believers seek the blessings of all three aspects of the divine femininity, hence the nine nights of worship.

Eighth day is traditionally Durgashtami which is big in Bengal and Bihar.

In some parts of South India, Saraswati puja is performed on the 9th day. Ayudha Puja is conducted in many parts of South India on the Mahanavami (Ninth) day with much fanfare. Weapons, agricultural implements, all kinds of tools, equipments, machinery and automobiles are decorated and worshipped on this day along with the worship of Goddess. The work starts afresh from the next day, i.e. the 10th day which is celebrated as ‘Vijaya Dashami’. Many teachers/Schools in south India start teaching Kindergarten children from that day onwards.

In North India, as the culmination of the Ramlila which is enacted ceremoniously during Dussehra, the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghanada are burnt to celebrate the victory of good (Rama) over evil forces on the ‘Vijaya Dashami’ day.

During Navratri, some devotees of Durga observe a fast and prayers are offered for the protection of health and prosperity.

Devotees avoid meat, alcoholic drinks, grains, wheat and onion during this fast.

Grains are usually avoided since it is believed that during the period of Navratri and seasonal change, grains attract and absorb lots of negative energies from the surrounding and therefore there is a need to avoid eating anything which are produced from grains for the purification of Navratri to be successful.

Navratri is also a period of introspection and purification, and is traditionally an auspicious and religious time for starting new ventures.

During this vowed religious observance, a pot is installed (ghatasthapana) at a sanctified place at home. A lamp is kept lit in the pot for nine days. The pot symbolises the universe. The uninterrupted lit lamp is the medium through which we worship the effulgent Adishakti, i.e. Sree Durgadevi.

During Navratri, the principle of Sree Durgadevi is more active in the atmosphere.

Navratri is celebrated in a large number of Indian communities.

The mother goddess is said to appear in 9 forms, and each one is worshiped for a day.

These nine forms signify various traits that the goddess influences us with. The Devi Mahatmya and other texts invoking the Goddess who vanquished demons are cited.

During the eighth or ninth day, Kanya Puja, pre-pubescent girls are ceremonially worshipped.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 15

Fiji Senior’s celebrates Residents stay alert to Annual Multicultural Dinner severe weather LORD mayor Graham Quirk is reminding Brisbane residents to get ready for this year’s summer storm season with severe storms typically hitting from October through to February.

The Lord Mayor said nearly 90,000 households were currently signed up to Council’s free Early Warning Alert Service which provides location-based alerts of severe weather activity predicted in their area.

Cr Quirk said the alerts are sent to residents by SMS, email or recorded phone message when a severe weather event is forecast, allowing for preparations to protect homes and assets.

“Severe storms can result in property damage, power outages, and isolation due to floodwaters and debris, so preparation is not only crucial but can pay great dividends if, and when severe weather occurs,” Cr

FIJI Senior Citizens Association of Qld Inc held their annual Multicultural Senior’s Dinner Night on 13th September at Greek Orthodox Church Hall, Mt Gravatt. Mr Surendra Prasad said that the event was again a great success with over 400 people from different sectors of the community attending the evening. The politicians, dignitaries including 10 Aboriginal Elders also attended.

The audience enjoyed eight courses of Indian meals and varieties of entertainments, cultural performances from Indian, Africans, Burmese, Ethiopians, Pacific Islanders and Punjabi’s was of high standard and very entertaining.

Mr Prasad said there is tremendous support from the communities and organisations for this event especially from Lord Mayor’s Suburban Initiative funds and Cr.

Krista Adams. Without their support this event may not have been possible.

With this event we are beginning to achieve our aims of bringing diverse communities together and bring about understanding within different groups tradition, culture and religious values, and helping to promote peace and harmony in our state.

We all should respect one another regardless of cultural, racial or religious differences. Fair go to everyone, understand the rights and responsibility that we share as part of the society and sense of belonging for everyone by helping communities work towards spirit of inclusiveness and share identity as Australian.

Together we can make our country, Australia a harmonious and peaceful country on this earth. “We are one we are Australian”. Surendra Prasad OAM

16 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

Quirk said.

“Signing up to the service is an ideal way for residents to both stay informed about fast-moving weather and be prepared when a storm can be predicted ahead of time.

Cr Quirk encouraged residents to join the 88,692 households currently signed up to the service.

Cr Quirk said residents could find ways to prepare for the summer storm season by visiting www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/beprepared.

Residents only receive warnings if the registered residential address may be impacted.

Registration is restricted to one resident per household and is free to Brisbane residents.

To register for the Early Warning Alert Service, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ earlywarning or call Council on 3403 8888.

Congratulations to MariGold Restaurant - winner “Best Indian Restaurant 2014” ariGold, Indian Restaurant is proud M to announce that Monday night 8th September, 2014 at the Queensland

Restaurant and catering Awards for excellence, MariGold won the category, Best Indian Restaurant.

“This is a fantastic result and demonstrates the MariGold passion for delivering an amazing dining experience to its customers”, said owner of MariGold, Push Oberoi (pictured).

He thanks the team of MariGold for the job well done.

It’s fingers crossed for the Marigold team as they head to the National finals in Melbourne in late October.

Push Oberoi invites you to join us for lunch or Dinner at MariGold and see what the judges were talking about.

MariGold Restaurant is locate on Ground Floor, Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach.

Reservation: Ph: 5679 8131 / 0416 137 580.

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 17

Radio 4EB AGM RADIO 4EB 98.1 FM held its annual general meeting on 21st September 2014 at the radio station situated at 140 main Street Kangaroo Point. The annual general meeting was well attended and Anthony Shorten M.P. member for Algester was the chief guest.

Radio 4EB FM Certificates of Appreciation for 2014 were awarded to: Life Membership: In recognition of an exceptional contribution to the station by an individual: Peter Ho Category One: At least five (5) years of exceptional contributions to the EBAQ Ltd. - No recipient Category Two: At least five (5) years involvement as a Convenor of the EBAQ Ltd - Pelu Veikoso, Vlastimir Jokic.

Category Three: At least seven (7) years consistent involvement in program production and broadcasting - Pelu Veikoso, Vlastimir Jokic, Mele Horner, Paul Faka’otu, Andrzej (Andrew) Klonowski, Rashpal Singh Heyer, Anton (Tony) Holly, Maria Holly, Indrani Doloswala, Anandalal Pathirana, Limapo Hopoate.

Category Four: At least ten (10) years continuous membership of the EBAQ Ltd Vlastimir Jokic, Mele Horner, Paul Faka’otu, Rajibur Reza, Bep Torkington, Hendricus J A Van Der Weerd, Edith Linssen, Rudolf Van Wyk, Gerry Sieders, Lucas Bouwman, Lucia Bertens, Ina Huig, Emma Boon, Matt Theunissen, Dick Tazelaar, Helen Dykstra, Maria Catharina Lieneman, Sebastiana Gillow, David Van Der Lei, The Netherlands Association of Queensland, Bonnie Boon, Corris Vos, Martinus Ruiter, Johannes D G Van Doorn, Beno Groothoff, Nienke Firrell, Cornelis Huig, Greta Schimpf, John Bouman, Wilhelmus Van Drunen, Satpal Singh, Hardial Singh Binning, Manjit Singh Boparai, Pritam Singh Jhaj, Catherine Wyse, Robert Campbell, Elizabeth Loftus, June Ryan, Jack Dearie, Maria Tomas, Dharme Ratnayake, Ananda Samaretunga, Priyantha Kossinna, Aravinda Rubasinghe, Dushyantha Munasinghe, Jayasiri Weerawardane, Amitha Hewavitharana, Samson Fernando, Jayantha Weerasena, Wimal Kannangara, Devaka Amarasekera, Seetha Opatha Vithana, Silia Laukau Nuku.

President’s Shield: Presented for outstanding achievement – Samoan Group, they have a membership base of around four hundred.

For the elections, only the treasurer’s position was contested and it was retained by

Minas Cassimatis by a vast majority. Five new directors of the board were nominated and they are as follows; Umesh Chandra (Pictured), Stavros Liassi, Levale Fale Lio, Jayantha Wickramatunga and Renzo Zanuttini.

President Nick Dmyterko said “I am pleased to report that EBAQ has had a very successful year. Thank you to the Treasurer Minas Cassimatis, and the Station Manager, Peter Rohweder, for your input into the budget and your commitment in ensuring its success. In addition, I would like to thank the whole board for adopting this stance & ensuring a positive result for the financial year.

NEMBC Annual Conference Brisbane 2013 As most of you know, the annual NEMBC conference was a resounding success. A special thank you should go out to Irene Bayldon-Tavutavu and Peter Rohweder for their tireless work with the NEMBC to ensure a smooth & seamless conference. In addition to the normal conference/AGM, we were the first station to also include the youth, at a combined conference.

This decision led to a very rewarding & successful conference & the first of many combined conferences in the future.

Participants feedback was extremely positive & the venue excellent. Once again, thank you to all the volunteers who helped out over the conference & thank you to all the businesses that provided goods and services.

Building Development Last year when I presented my report I thanked Peter Rohweder & Renzo Zanuttini for their involvement in getting the plan from the drawing table to something tangible. I underestimated the complexities of a major redevelopment and government red tape. I can now confidently advise that we will be proceeding with stage one (the car park) very shortly. I would like to acknowledge the work carried out by our past pres-

ident Dr Peter Ho. He has completed all the civil and structural engineering work required for the build. This is a monumental undertaking and a service that has been gifted. I am looking forward to the start date and most importantly, the completion of the rebuild.

Digital Radio We have now been broadcasting on digital for almost 3 years. Last year our funding was in question, but people power and common sense ultimately prevailed. And we can now look forward to a brighter future.

This is evident in your commitment and the take-up of time slots on the digital spectrum. Not only are you utilising the FM band with current programs, but you are also taking on the responsibilities of new programs on the digital spectrum. So much so, that the weekend time slots are almost full and all that is left are the week day time slots.

This is a testament to all of you that are taking up the challenge of the digital revolution. New ideas do not solely require new minds, for if this was true then all the digital programs would be run by the youth.

No, we have a varied demographic in our digital broadcasting. And a big thank you to all the groups that are taking the challenge

of this digital age.

Best Practices It has been an idea of mine to share information with our sister stations around Australia and learn from one another. I have been pushing this idea with the NEMBC for over 7 years.

I am happy to announce that this year saw the first Best Practices occur. I hope that there are many more face to face meetings in the future to benefit all stations. At these meetings managers, presidents or station representatives meet with a sole purpose of streamlining systems & services, developing ideas that transcend state borders and ultimately find a better way of doing what we do.

Awards It is not often that you hear me talk about awards we receive from other organisations.

I would rather continue with what we do best, that is programming. that said, I am extremely proud of the accomplishment you have achieved over the past year.

- CBAA Best New Radio Program Talks Fair Comment - NEMBC Awards - Multicultural Women’s Program of the Year - Women’s Profile - NEMBC Ethnic Program of the Year Tamil Oli In conclusion I would like to thank all the Board of Directors for this year’s work, the staff, in carrying out all the requests of the board, the sponsors that have continued their sponsorship arrangements with the station, and more than 600 volunteers who dedicate their time and provide news, information, music, laughter and a familiar voice for your respective communities.

What a wonderful gift you are giving this city and your community. This is the true spirit of 4EB. 55 groups representing more than 50 different languages, all sharing the world with you.

Thank you.

Interfaith Walk & Prayer for Peace

THE Universal Peace Federation celebrated 2014 United Nations International Day of Peace.

Partnered with “Believing Women for a Cultural of Peace” and “Women’s Federation for World Peace” held an “interfaith Walk and Prayer for Peace on 21st September, 2014 walk began at Queens Park, Brisbane and ended at Speakers Corner in front of Parliament House.

People from all sectors of the community join the walk carrying handmade “Peace Lantern” and everyone sang “Let There Be Peace On Earth”.

Leaders from different faith Hindus, Buddhist, Christian, 18 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

Moslem, Jewish, Baha’I ,Spiritualist and others presented prayer for peace in their faith perspective.

The UPF affirm the annual celebration of the International day of Peace on 21st September and applauds the United Nations for initiating and promoting this day since 1981.

When the general Assembly resolution 36/67 was passed.

As stated on the UN website, “The United Nation invites all nation and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the day, and to otherwise commemorate the day through education and public awareness on issue related to peace”. The theme for International Day of Peace 2014 is www.indiantimes.com.au

“The right of peoples to Peace”. UPF charters around the world honour this day and this important theme by convening program such as this “Interfaith work & Prayer for Peace” we are having this day dedicated to the promotion of peace and human rights. The concept of a “Right to Peace” was affirmed by the United Nations 30 years ago, with the understanding that peace is necessary as a foundation for human right.

Surendra Prasad OAM, Ambassador for Peace associated with Universal Peace Federation has provided this news article.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 19

GOPIO Sydney Northwest hold fifth “Sharing and Caring” function

GOPIO Sydney Northwest held its very successful fifth “Sharing and Caring function on 20th September at Roselea Community Centre, Carlingford. The event has grown significantly in the last few years and this year being the biggest. From one hundred to one hundred fifty people this year they attracted over 400 people.

In welcoming everyone President Aman Singh said “Warm Thank You, to all the supporters of Caring n’

Sharing, in the last 4 years GOPIO Syd North West Chapter has donated around $15,000 towards needful community causes e.g. donations to the underprivileged kids in India, bush fire victims in Australia and other community needs in Sydney. This year also we have selected two remote area schools where warm clothes & shoes will be provided to the under-privileged kids. Each year our team has delivered and implemented much needed clothes, shoes

and water filters to unprivileged little school children in India All of the credit goes to those who purchased tickets as all proceeds go directly to the children in need. It’s fantastic that we can have such a great night as well as make a difference.

Umesh Chandra GOPIO International Coordinator (Oceania) thanked the committee for the hard work and encouraged the participants to become GOPIO members.

Harmohan Singh Walia, Chairperson of GOPIO International policy and procedures committee and Mahavir Arya associate secretary were also present.

GOPIO Sydney North West chapter was established in September 2008. The current executive committee is as follows: Aman Singh (President), Paramjit Multani (Vice President), Sumit Joshi (Secretary), Neeru Singh (Assistant Secretary), Baljit Singh Pelia (Treasurer).

GOPIO presents Memorandum to MOS Min. Kiren Rijiji ON SEPTEMBER 13, 2014, GOPIO president Ashook Ramsaran presented a list of community issues and matters of interest and concern to Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Ministry of Home Affairs. This list is based on various input, suggestions and recommendations received from GOPIO’s chapters, membership and other organizations among the Indian American community in the United States and globally. Development of this memorandum was also based on our extensive knowledge, experience and interaction within GOPIO, resolutions at various conferences, as well as with other individuals and groups in the Indian community regionally, nationally and globally.

Some of the critical issues and suggestions include: * OCI Card Uniformity for all – Problem of reissue when passports are renewed to age 20 and once over age 50 while ages 20-49 carry old passport with U-Visa along with new passport. * Acceptance of Alternate Documentation for PIO Card – For Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), especially descendants of indentured laborers, who are unable to obtain original documents due to poor records in countries where Indian laborers migrated from 1834-1920. * Proposed OIC Card – Can cause unnecessary burdens and confusion. The current PIO and OCI cards are well accepted, widely used and differentiation must be retained. Refer Economic Times article below. * NRI Tax beyond 60-day stay in India – Waiver needed for families, retirees and emergencies. * Uniformity of information, policies and practices – Visas, OCI cards, passports and surrender of passports by all ministries, high commissions and consulates. * Reciprocity from India re US Immigration Bill – Needed permission for spouses of temporary workers to work legally. * Research Visa – Burdensome and unnecessary requirement for special permission for OCI/PIO Card holders to conduct research in India.

A new Bill, which seeks to do away with the existing overseas citizen of India (OCI) card and the person of Indian origin (PIO) card, and replace them with a new overseas Indian card, is being opposed by a large section of Indian overseas, who have been enjoying the benefits of these cards for many years.

The Bill, dubbed amendment to Citizenship Act, has already been passed by the Rajya Sabha and is likely to come up before the Lok Sabha for passage in the current parliament session.

While a PIO card applicant has to be a person of Indian origin who is a citizen of any country, other than Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Afghanistan, China and Nepal; or a person who has held an Indian passport at any time or is the spouse of an Indian citizen or a person of Indian origin; the OCI card is for foreign nationals who were eligible to become a citizen of India on 26.01.1950 or was a citizen of India on or after that date.

The country of the citizenship of the OCI applicant must 20 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

• Min Kiren Rijiju at NY Consulate September 13.

also allow dual citizenship in some form and applications from citizens of Bangladesh and Pakistan are not allowed.

While PIO card holders do not require a separate visa and can enter India with multiple entry facility for 15 years; the OCI card is a multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa for visiting India. OCI card-holders have parity with non-resident Indians in respect of economic, financial and educational matters except in acquiring agricultural land.

“The idea of merging the PIO card and the OCI card will create more confusion rather than solving any problems.

Members of the Indian Diaspora, many of whom are OCI and PIO card-holders cannot understand the rationale behind the Indian government’s move to suddenly change the nomenclature of the cards and introduce a new one. The OCI card scheme has drawn unprecedented emotional appeal and resulted in huge numbers signing up for it at about 250,000 a year. Applicants have to pay around $300 per card and it helps them to connect emotionally to their country of origin,” says Munish Gupta, co-ordinator of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) International.

The organisation has officially taken the stand that while Indians overseas had deeply appreciated the gesture of the government of India to create the much-needed emotional engagement with the diaspora through the OCI/PIO cards, by doing away with them they will now feel a deep sense of humiliation.

“It is abundantly clear that India’s constitution does not allow dual citizenship in any manner including through the OCI card, which is just a glorified lifelong visa, and has been hailed as the most unique step taken by any government for its diaspora,” Mr Gupta added.

Members of GOPIO now fear that the introduction of another card will create a great deal of confusion among the www.indiantimes.com.au

Indian immigration authorities at the ports of entry.

“There has always been a rush among members of the diaspora to apply for the PIO and OCI cards. Initially, the process of obtaining the cards was very cumbersome leaving applicants frustrated. But finally the procedures for application and resulting issuance of cards have become smooth,” Mr Gupta added. GOPIO members feel that any new card for overseas Indians will again cause confusion and chaos across the Indian embassies / missions and the ports of entry in India all over again.

Ankur Vaidya, a businessman in New Jersey, who is the current president of the Federation of Indian Associations (Tri-State), one of the largest non-profit Indian-American organisations in the US, is of the opinion that while the OCI Card that is in place needs to be overhauled, and scrapping it and introducing another new card would only impose a further financial burden on applicants. “The idea should be to improve on what we already have in place and not try to make Indians overseas pay more money for a new card,” Vaidya said.

And like him, Dr Navin C Shah, a Washington DC based doctor and founder member of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), strongly feels that once an applicant has completed the application process and made the payment, the OCI card should be considered as a permanent document. “If the government wants to issue a new card for their needs, then the owner of the old card should not have to apply / fill any forms/make any payment. It should be totally a hassle free procedure,” he said.

Some of the problems that OCI card-holders currently face are the need for reissuance every time a new US passport is issued and the need to reapply when they turn 20 and 50 years of age.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 21

GOPIO Queensland celebrates Gandhi Jayanti

GOPIO Queensland celebrated Gandhi ‘Jayanthi on 2nd October at Roma street Parklands. The Event was supported by FICQ and the Gandhi statue committee. Umesh Chandra as the MC welcomed everyone to the historic site and said that it will become a gathering place on Gandhi Jayanti for generations to come. He shed light on GOPIO Internationals close connection with Gandhi Ji life, he mentioned that the annual PBD is held on 9th January as; it was on that date that Mahatma Gandhi Ji had returned to India.

Yousuf Alikhan spoke on GandhiJi’s message of Ahimsha and its relevance today, and thanked the Gandhi Statue committee on the progress they had made. Mrs Archana Singh honorary Counsel for India in Queensland spoke on Gandhiji and how this great son of India rose from being a shy boy to being the father of a nation who changed the cause of history. She said that the statue of Gandhi Ji will add extra dimension to the surroundings of Roma street Parklands. Dr Maha Sinnathamby patron of GOPIO Queensland said that in 1869, the world and not India gave birth to Gandhi Ji, he was a true world citizen as to him everyone was equal. He highlighted three main qualities of

Gandhiji which were; no anger, no fear, and no desires.

Professor Sarva Danam Singh as the keynote speaker spoke eloquently on the life of Gandhi and his philosophy of oneness, he quoted GandhiJi’s saying that don’t work as if you have only two hands, but work as if you have ten hands and fruits of that labour should be distributed as if you had hundred hands. He spoke on Gandhiji’s last fast in support of India’s Muslims and thousands of displaced Muslims were resettled, and more than one hundred and fifty mosques were reclaimed and how people prayed in Pakistan’s Mosques in support of Gandhiji. Jim Varghese speaking on behalf of the statue committee and updated the progress so far and the challenges ahead with the installation of Gandhi Jis statue. Professor Prasad Yarlagadda president of FICQ spoke of the importance of working together and how Queensland was often quoted nationally as an example to follow.

After refreshments arranged by Mrs Usha Chandra the Gandhi committee held their meeting number five. Over twenty five people attended the first Gandhi Jayanthi on a very short notice, at the venue of the proposed home of

• Honoraray Counsel for India in Queensland Mrs Archana Singh delivers her Gandhi Jayanti message.

Gandhi statue, gate six of Roma Street Parklands opposite 383 Wickham Tce Spring Hill.

International student award winners celebrated THE State’s outstanding international students and organisations that support them were celebrated on 15 September at the Sydney Opera House.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Trade and Investment Andrew Stoner and Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Regional Development John Barilaro congratulated the winners of the 2014 NSW International Student Awards.

“The NSW International Student Awards publicly acknowledge the positive contributions and achievements of these outstanding international students who come from a range of educational institutions,” Mr Stoner said.

“The winners and finalists have shown that even though they are here to study, they find time to help their peers and other members of the community.

“NSW’s global links are strengthened by the presence of international students in the State and we appreciate their contributions to their schools, colleges and universities and the wider community.

“We want to enhance the international student experience while they are here so they can become our unofficial ambassadors when they return home. Through Study NSW, an agency within NSW Trade & Investment, the NSW Government is working with the international education sector to ensure its long-term growth.”

Mr Barilaro, who represented the Deputy Premier at tonight’s awards presentation at the Sydney Opera House, said the finalists’ initiatives included advocating for and representing other international students, working with refugees, teaching children to sing, helping young people at risk, mentoring students, and volunteering and fund raising for charities.

“Tonight’s winners are from a wide range of countries, including Kenya, Italy, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Ecuador, China, India, Belgium and Vietnam, reflecting the 177 countries from which our international students come,” Mr Barilaro said.

“This year, the awards include a new category – the International Student Community Engagement Awards – to

• Higher Education award winner, Mrs Saba Nabi.

recognise the initiatives of organisations, community groups and education providers that help international students connect with the community.

“By implementing a range of different initiatives, the winners of these awards have helped international students to feel part of the community and also to resolve issues they might face.” Media: Office of the Deputy Premier 8574 5100 Winners of the 2014 NSW International Student Awards: VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING Mr Immanuel NJOROGE, Kenya, TAFE South Western Sydney Institute – Granville College – Mr Njoroge, who is studying for a Diploma of Laboratory Technology, was a registered midwife before coming to Sydney to study. He assists and mentors his classroom peers and helps fellow international students to overcome loneliness.

He volunteers at his local church, helping young people at risk, and for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

SCHOOLS Miss Yanrong CHEN, China, Kambala – Miss Chen is a prefect, visual arts prefect and dux of the school’s International Baccalaureate Program. She contributes to the school’s CASAK (Community, Action, Service @ Kambala) progam. Miss Chen

22 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

volunteered to tutor international students, working with her teacher to identify students needing support. She mentors other international students and is a boarding house “buddy”. She has also participated in the school’s charity work and fund raising.

ELICOS Mr Ahmad ALJAZEERI, Saudi Arabia, TAFE Northern Sydney Institute – Mr Al Jazeeri, who aims to study medical science next year, undertook volunteer training with Ryde Council and then began volunteering at Royal Rehab in Putney. He supports his fellow students and sometimes acts as their leader. He does volunteer work at two Islamic centres, organising social and religious activities.

HIGHER EDUCATION Mrs Saba NABI, India, Charles Sturt University (CSU) – Mrs Nabi, who is studying for her PhD in biomedical sciences at CSU, is the first international student elected to the University Governance Council and is also a member of the Faculty of Science board. She is President of the International Students Club, part of CSU Health Promotion Group and the Secretary of the Islamic Students Association. Off campus she is involved with Cancer Council Wagga Wagga, the City Council and the Multicultural Council

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of Wagga Wagga.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT (EDUCATION PROVIDER) Illawarra Committee for International Students (ICIS), University of Wollongong – ICIS was established in the 1980s to support the cultural and social needs of sponsored students. The Committee aims to help international students settle into life in the Illawarra, have fun, make friends and interact with the local community.

Activities include the Welcome to Wollongong Dinner, orientation activities, sightseeing trips, English conversation groups and a partnership with Bomaderry schools. The Committee comprises University staff, international students and members of the Illawarra community.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT (ORGANISATION/COMMUNITY) (joint winners) International Student Leadership and Ambassador program, Council of the City of Sydney – The International Student Leadership and Ambassador (ISLA) program aims to give international students a voice in the city. ISLA provides training, mentoring and practical work experience to international student leaders. The student ambassadors, from 11 educational institutions, work with the City to develop initiatives to meet community needs and promote events to international students.

The program also provides opportunities for international students to gain professional work experience.

International Students Legal Advice Service, Redfern Legal Centre – The Redfern Legal Centre provides a free, State-wide advisory service tailored to the issues that international students face, including language barriers, lack of familiarity with NSW laws and lack of support networks. It is the only specialist international student legal advice service in NSW. The service uses video conferencing to link students in remote and regional areas with solicitors and interpreters in Sydney. The Centre has also developed plain-language, print and video legal resources for international students.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 23

USC honours distinguished Top Tibetan Lama helps public servant Brisbane people discover A FORMER Director-General of four different Queensland Government departments, Jim Varghese AM, became an Honorary Senior Fellow of the University of the Sunshine Coast at its graduation ceremony on Thursday 2 October.

Between 1998 and 2008, Mr Varghese of Chapel Hill served as Queensland’s Director-General of Main Roads, then Employment and Training, then Education and finally Primary Industries and Fisheries.

During that time he oversaw major policy and public service reforms and, in 2009, he became a Member of the Order of Australia for his service to public administration in Queensland and to the community.

As Director-General of Education, Mr Varghese worked closely with USC’s first Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Thomas AM. “We both shared a vision for USC that was ahead of its time – a fully integrated campus where schooling, learning, skilling and work are woven into an innovation precinct that would grow and flourish, becoming a beacon of success and innovation,” he said.

“Paul Thomas and his team developed a great rapport with my senior team in Education Queensland – we were soul mates in thinking outside the square realising opportunities.”

USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill praised Mr Varghese’s commitment to serving the people of Queensland and his contribution to the University.

the real purpose of life

“Jim Varghese was key to Chancellor State College being built next door to the University and helped enhance the visibility of USC at an important stage of its development,” he said.

Mr Varghese, 63, said he was proud to have served the people of Queensland under governments of both political persuasions as an apolitical public servant committed to making a difference and implementing policy with vision and purpose.

He is Chair and owner of the Leadership Company, a Director of the Springfield Land Corporation, a Director of the Queensland Mental Health Foundation and Deputy Chair of the Puuya Foundation in the Aboriginal community of Lockhart River.

A SENIOR Tibetan Lama will tell the people of Brisbane how to realise the true purpose of their lives.

His Eminence the 7th Dzogchen Rinpoche says many people are rightly searching for meaning in their lives but end up looking in all the wrong places and the happiness they seek escapes them.

Dzogchen Rinpoche will be in Maroochydore on 17th October at Millwell Rd Community Centre, to give a public talk entitled What is the Real Purpose of your Life? Doors open at 7pm.

His Eminence says: “Searching for happiness we buy in to the idea of a perfect life – a good job, a nice house, the fairy tale romance.

“Over many years we work hard to build this lifestyle but in reality the stress of maintaining it can leave us feeling exhausted and dissatisfied.

“Confused that this has not brought the long-term contentment we had hoped for, we can find ourselves lacking direction and questioning the true meaning of our life.

“Instead we can draw on ancient Buddhist wisdom to practice a profound yet simple method which will help us realise the deeper purpose of our lives so we can experience effortless peace and lasting fulfilment.”

Doors open at 7pm, the talk begins at 7.30pm. Tickets are $20 ($15 concession) and can be purchased online at www.trybooking.com.DEDU. For further information call 0416 404 826 or email qld@shenpenaustralia.org .

The talk will be followed by a weekend teaching on How To Truly Follow Your

Heart on 18th October at the same venue and a five-day retreat entitled Rest In The Heart of the Guru from 19th - 24th October at Springbrook.

These events are part of a worldwide tour which covers France, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, Australia and finally India.

The tour will consist of public talks, empowerments and teachings and residential retreats in most countries.

Dzogchen Rinpoche, one of the highest lamas in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, is the authentic Dzogchen lineage holder and head of Dzogchen Monastery in South India with more than 280 branch monasteries in Asia mainly in Tibet, India, Nepal and Bhutan and in the West.

For more information go to www.dzogchen.org.in and click Programme/Teaching Schedule.u

Federation of Bhangra (FOB) crowned winners of Bhangra Down Under 2014 Brisbane Telangana Association Bathukamma Celebrations Brisbane Telangana Association celebrated Bathukamma on 28 September at Hamilton Town Hall, Hamilton.

24 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

THE cream of Australian Punjabi dance and music talent was on display at the Bhangra Down Under 2014 – Australian Bhangra competition held at the National Theatre, St Kilda on Sunday 21st September, 2014 Seven teams competed from across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra for the top prize of $1,500 and the winning trophy.

The event was a sellout and over 900 vocal Punjabi and other community fans packed the National Theatre to roar support for their teams.

The male and female performers were from a mix of age groups including kids dancers and came from both urban and regional areas including Coffs • MC Ajit Singh with Guest Satinder Satti.

Harbour in NSW. The Melbourne based Federation of magnificent, the choreography first class Bhangra (FOB) dance group was crowned and we look forward to next year’s event.” the winner of the annual Bhangra Down The event featured a special guest, popular Under 2014 - Australian Bhangra television host Satinder Satti and the crowd was kept in good spirits by the three MC’s Competition.

FOB celebrated jubilantly onstage in front Preetinder Grewal from SBS Punjabi, Ajit of a packed audience and showcased the Chauhan Singh from the Singh Sabha Sports Club and Australian Punjabi Hip spirit of the Punjabi community.

Rishi Singh, spokesperson for FOB said Hop artist, Sukhdeep Singh aka L-Fresh the “We are humbled to be crowned the Lion.

Other entertainment also included the best Bhangra team in Australia considering Malwai Gidha, Dhol competition, kids the high quality of the other groups,” “Our thanks go to the organisers Kingh Gidha and a sizzling Bollywood perforEnterprises and the Australian Bhangra mance.

Bhangra Down Under 2014 was proudly Association for the hard work they have put supported by MoneyGram, represented by in to make the event happen.”

The Bhangra All Stars team (BASS) were National Marketing Manager- South Asia, awarded second place in the competition Ms Nidhi Khataria, who presented the with Melbourne Bhangra Regiment (MBR) medals for the kids dance. announced in third place.

Gurpreet Singh was the lucky winner of 2 The organisers of Bhangra Down Under ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 tickets cour2014, Kingh Enterprises and Australian tesy of official tournament partner Bhangra Association, were thrilled with the MoneyGram. ‘full house’.

“I am really happy to win. I like cricket Tanveer Bedi, spokesperson for the event very much and I am really looking forward said “Thanks to everyone who came and to the ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia. enjoyed the show. The performers were Thank you MoneyGram.” Mr Singh said.

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Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association AGM: new management committee Courtesy GCHCA ON Sunday 31st August 2014 the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association held their Annual General Meeting.

Welcome to the new Management Committee: • Dr. Shunil Sharma – President • Dr. M. Anandakumarasamy - Vice President • Mr Rajiv Haikerwal - Secretary • Mrs Neela Ramiah - Joint Secretary • Mr Rathinam Srinivasan - Treasurer • Mr Sures Sinnadurai - Assistant Treasurer • Professor Thiru Aravinthan – Director Cultural Activities • Mr Kartik Menon – Director Educational Activities • Mr Ramanathan Karupiah – Director Youth & Community, Fund Raising, & Event Management • Mr Subramaniam Barataraj – Director Religious Activities • Dr. G. Subakumar – Director Resources, Media, Publicity and Asset Management On behalf of Dr. Shunil Sharma and the committee we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the outgoing members of the committee for their leadership and generous contribution to the association.

Indian Senior Citizen Assn. Inc - Notice of Annual General Meeting Notice is hereby given that the AGM of the Indian Senior Citizen Association will be held at 2pm on Sunday 9th November 2014 at the BCC Library Meeting Room, Sunnybank Hills Shopping Town, corner of Mains and Compton Road, Sunnybank Hills.

All executive positions will be declared vacant and nominations are invited for the following positions: * one President * two Vice Presidents * one Secretary, one Treasurer * five Committee Members and; * one Publicity officer.

Nominations forms are available from the secretary, Shakuntla Mohan: Ph 3209 3235 or babu.mohan@hotmail.com All nominations should reach the secretary at least 7 days before the AGM. You will need to be a paid financial member to stand for an official position Secretary Shakuntla Mohan

BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES NOVEMBER DEADLINES Advertisers 3 November Editorial / Photo Submissions 4 November Email prod@indiantimes.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 25

Who, What, Where, When

• On Sunday 5th October Anita, daughter of Mr Hemant and Mrs Madulaben Bhatia wed Yash son of Mr Vinodbhai and Mrs Geetaben Kakadiya at the Greel hall 269 Creek Road, Mt Gravatt. Sangeet night was held on Saturday 4th October at Sunnybank Baptist Church hall. International and interstate guests attended the wedding.

• A surprise birthday party took place for Mr Andrew Rajendra Prasad and Mrs Shakuntala Prasad at their residence on Saturday 20th September.

The party was organised by their daughters Rani and Rohani, and assisted by their cousins, Adeep Jeet and Tirit Achal.

The party was attended by friends and family including their grandchildren Christopher, Jade and Jacinta.

Mr and Mrs Prasad were thanked for their services to the community, including Andrew being the founder of the Indian Senior Citizens Association of Queensland.

Right: Standing from left to right: Jade Dutton, Christopher Ferris, Andrew Prasad, David Ferris Sitting from left to right: Rohani Prasad, Shakuntala Prasad, Blanche Ashton, Jacinta Dutton and Rani Prasad-Ferris

• Police Commissioner and other memebrs of QPS meeting Muslim community leaders at Islamic College in Karawtha.

• Samoan group receiving the Presidents Shield 2014 at 4EB AGM.

• Rashpal Singh Hayer receiving his certificate from Anthonny Shorten MP at 4EB AGM. Report page 18.

• GOPIO Queensland Womens Council together with President Yousuf Alikhan meet Department of Social Services.

• Invited dignataries at Bengali Society of Queensland during Durga Pooja.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

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• Members of Fiji Seniors Citizens presenting a cheque of $1001 to Vishnu Maya Mandir during Navratri.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 27

Happy Diwali...

Diwali - Festival of Lights...

DIWALI, the festival of lights, celebrates the abundance of autumn harvest and is dedicated to various gods and goddesses.

The festival also marks an important date in the Indian calendar, as the North Indian kingdom of Avadha has celebrated this as the last day of Lord Rama’s long exile of fourteen years. As the citizens of Ayodhya eagerly awaited their beloved prince’s return, they lit thousands of lamps to guide his flying vimana to their city. The darkest night of the year gave way to a glorious morning as Rama returned with his wife and brothers to his ancestral kingdom of Avadha.

Diwali also celebrates the gracious nature of the three goddesses, Lakshmi, Kali and Saraswati. Dhanteras (two days before Diwali) is dedicated to Lakshmi, whose blessings are essential for a prosperous, fruitful and peaceful life. Kali-Chudash (the day before Diwali) is dedicated to Maha Kali whose strength we seek to maintain the wealth we have. Strength, physical, mental and spiritual, is essential for all of us to lead a happy life. Diwali itself is dedicated to goddess Saraswati. Knowledge is the ultimate wealth, for it cannot be stolen from you; it is also the ultimate strength, for it often defeats brute force.

The Legends Goddess Lakshmi: The Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi was incarnated on the new moon day (amaavasyaa) of the Kartik month during the churning of the ocean (samudra-manthan), hence the association

of Diwali with Lakshmi.

Vishnu Rescued Lakshmi: On this very day, Lord Vishnu in his fifth incarnation as Vaman-avtaara rescued Lakshmi from the prison of King Bali and this is another reason of worshipping Ma Larkshmi on Diwali.

Krishna Killed Narakaasur: On the day preceding Diwali, Lord Krishna killed the demon king Narakaasur and rescued 16,000 women from his captivity. The celebration of this freedom went on for two days including the Diwali day as a victory festival.

The Return of the Pandavas: According to the great epic ‘Mahabharata’, it was ‘Kartik Amavashya’ when the Pandavas appeared from their 12 years of banishment as a result of their defeat in the hands of the Kauravas at the game of dice (gambling).

The subjects who loved the Pandavas celebrated the day by lighting the earthen lamps.

The Victory of Rama: According to the epic ‘Ramayana’, it was the new moon day of Kartik when Lord Ram, Ma Sita and Lakshman returned to Ayodhya after vanquishing Ravana and conquering Lanka.

The citizens of Ayodhya decorated the entire city with the earthen lamps and illuminated it like never before.

Coronation of Vikramaditya: One of the greatest Hindu King Vikramaditya was coronated on the Diwali day, hence Diwali became a historical event as well.

PRIME MINISTER

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER DIWALI 2014

I am pleased to provide this message on the occasion of Diwali 2014.

Diwali – the Festival of Lights – is marked by millions off people around the world, including many off the 450,000 Australians of Indian origin.

It is a time to enjoy good food and entertainment, and to celebrate the bonds we share with ffaamily and ffrriends. It is also an opportunity to reffle lect on the meaning of Diwali – the triumph off light over darkness.

In periods off conffllict and uncertainty, Australians and Indians have worked, ffoug ought and sacriffiiced t ogether. Our men serrved side by side at Gallipoli in the First World War. In the Second World War, they endured extreme hardship after the fa fall off Singapore.

Auustralia a nd India h ave a s trong friendship based on shared history, a commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

Today, our t wo countries share growing trade and people-to-people links. Two-way trade between Australia and India is around $15 billion a year and India i s our second largest source off international students with over 30,000 currently studying in Australia.

I recently travelled to India. The visit strengthened the strategic partnership between our tw wo nations. It also let India know that our country is open ffor or business, and wants to do more business with ourr ffr friends on on tthe sub-continent.

During tthe visit I met India’s Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, and India’s President, Mr Shri Pranab Mukherjee. This visit has deepened the ffrriendship between Australia and India.

I send my best wishes ffor or an en njjoyable Diwali celebration.

The Hon Tony Abbott MP Prime Minister of Australia 17 September 2014 28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 29

Happy Diwali...

Diwali

message from Hindu Society of Queensland

HINDU Society of Queensland wishes everyone a prosperous Diwali.

Hope this festival of lights, brings you every joy and happiness. May the lamps of joy, illuminate your life and fill your days with theQ bright sparkles of peace, mirth and A goodwill, because you are someone who deserves life's best and so much more.

As you celebrate this holy occasion, you are wished the brightest moments that Diwali W can bring, lots of love and laughter to fill your days with cheer and a New year that is E-mail: hindusocietyqld@live.com.au sure to bring you, the best of everything.

Prakash Shandil President.

U SOCIETY OF QLD INC

GAYATRI MANDIR - 176 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall Qld 4034

8876414 Phone 3865 3164 - www.hindusocietyqld.org.au

Email - hindusocietyqld@live.com.au

wishes one and all a very Happy Diwali!!!! khatoonshennalounge@gmail.com ~0477987765~ www.facebook.com/KhatoonsAustralia Yeronga, Brisbane, QLD

30 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 31

With Fond Memories Diwali is a festival, which is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm by Hindus all over the world. With festive mood in the air, Diwali brings with it an opportunity to remember all special people in your lives and how much you miss them in the physical form but appreciate their eternal presence in your life.

Both fondly remembered on this occasion by their eldest son, Umesh Chandra, his borthers, sisters, their families and relatives

Late Mr Ram Bharos

Late Mrs Shiu Kumari Bharos

Born 26th January 1928, called to rest 28th July 2004

Born 15th August 1932, called to rest 15th November 2013

Remembered on this occasion by Wife Mrs Raj Pati, eldest daughter, Usha Chandra, her brothers, sisters, their families and relatives

Late Mr Sunder Lal Born 15 August 1933, called to rest 24th June 2007

Some people come into our lives for a moment, But stay in our hearts forever.

Words alone cannot describe how much we love and miss you.

Grateful to have been blessed with you being part of our lives.

Late Mr Anish Prasad Born 4th October 1983, called to rest 17th October 2011

Remembered by Dad Ramendra Prasad, Mum Uma Prasad, Brother Nitiesh Prasad, family friends & relatives 32 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

The lives of those we love is never lost.

Its influence goes on through all the lives they ever touched

By Sarojna Singh

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Late Mrs Ram Kumari Prasad Born 25th November 1932, called to rest 8th October 2010

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Happy Diwali...

Best wishes for Deepawali 2014

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk

Cr Margaret de WIT

Cr Amanda COOPER

Cr Matthew BOURKE

Cr Krista ADAMS

Cr Adrian SCHRINNER

Cr Angela OWEN-TAYLOR

Pullenvale Ward PH: 3407 0220

Bracken Ridge Ward Ph: 3667 6000

Jamboree Ward Ph: 3407 7000

Wishart Ward PH: 3403 7791

Deputy Mayor Ph: 3407 1400

Parkinson Ward Ph: 3131 7022

Cr Kim MARX

Cr Fiona KING

Cr Ian McKENZIE

Cr Vicki HOWARD

Cr Steven HUANG

Cr Norm WYNDHAM

Karawatha Ward PH: 3407 0566

Marchant Ward Ph: 3407 0707

Holland Park Ward Ph: 3403 2101

Central Ward Ph: 3403 0254

MacGregor Ward Ph: 3407 8500

McDowall Ward PH: 3403 7690

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34 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

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Basic human rights in Islam Prepared by: Imam M.Aslam THE first thing that we find in Islam in this connection is that it lays down some rights for man as a human being. In other words it means that every man whether he belongs to this country or that, whether he is a believer or nonbeliever, whether he lives in some forest or is found in some desert, whatever be the case, he has some basic human rights simply because he is a human being, which should be recognized by every Muslim. In fact it will be his duty to fulfil these obligations.

1. The Right to Life: The first and the foremost basic right is the right to live and respect human life. The Holy Quran lays down: Whosoever kills a human being without any reason on earth, it is as though he had killed all mankind ...

(5:32) As far as the question of taking life in retaliation for murder or the question of punishment for spreading corruption on this earth is concerned, it can be decided only by a proper and competent court of law. If there is any war with any nation or country, it can be decided only by a properly established government. In any case, no human being has any right by himself to take human life in retaliation or for causing mischief on this earth. Therefore it is incumbent on every human being that under no circumstances should he be guilty of taking a human life. If anyone has murdered a human being, it is as if he has slain the entire human race.

These instructions have been repeated in the Holy Quran in another place saying: Do not kill a soul which Allah has made sacred except through the due process of law ...

(6:151) The Holy Prophet, may God’s blessings be on him, has declared homicide as the greatest sin . The Tradition of the Prophet reads: “The greatest sins are to associate something with God and to kill human beings.” In all these verses of the Quran and the Traditions of the Prophet the word ‘soul’ (nafs) has been used in general terms without any distinction or particularization which might have lent itself to the elucidation that the persons belonging to one’s nation, the citizens of one’s country, the people of a particular race or religion should not be killed. The injunction applies to all human beings and the destruction of human life in itself has been prohibited.

2. The Right to the Safety of Life: Immediately after the verse of the Holy Quran which has been mentioned in connection with the right to life, God has said: “And whoever saves a life it is as though he had saved the lives of all mankind” (5:32). There can be several forms of saving man from death. A man may be ill or wounded, irrespective of his nationality, race or colour. If you know that he is in need of your help, then it is your duty that you should arrange for his treatment for disease or wound. If he is dying of starvation, then it is your duty to feed him so that he can ward off death. If he is drowning or his life is at stake, then it is your duty to save him.

3. Respect for the Chastity of Women: The third important thing that we find in the Charter of Human Rights granted by Islam is that a woman’s chastity has to be respected and protected under all circumstances, whether she belongs to our own nation or to the other nation, whether we find her in the wild forest or in a conquered city; whether she is our co-religionist or belongs to some other religion or has no religion at all. A Muslim cannot outrage her under any circumstances.

4. Individual’s Right to Freedom:Islam has clearly and categorically forbidden the primitive practice of capturing a free man, to make him a slave or to sell him into slavery.

On this point the clear and unequivocal words of the Prophet (S) are as follows: “There are three categories of people against whom I shall myself be a plaintiff on the Day of Judgement. Of these three, one is he who enslaves a free man, then sells him and eats this money” (al-Bukhari and Ibn Majjah). The words of this Tradition of the Prophet are also general, they have not been qualified or made applicable to a particular nation, race, country or followers of a particular religion.

The Position of Slavery in Islam: Briefly I would like to tell you about the position and nature of slavery in Islam.

Islam tried to solve the problem of the slaves that were in Arabia by encouraging the people in different ways to set their slaves free. The Muslims were ordered that in expiation of some of their sins they should set their slaves free.

Freeing a slave by one’s own free will was declared to be an act of great merit, so much so that it was said that every limb of the man who manumits a slave will be protected from hell-fire in lieu of the limb of the slave freed by him.

The result of this policy was that by the time the period of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs was reached, all the old slaves of Arabia were liberated. The Prophet alone liberated as many as 63 slaves. The number of slaves freed by ‘Aishah was 67, ‘Abbas liberated 70, ‘Abd Allah ibn ‘Umar liberated one thousand, and ‘Abd al-Rahman purchased thirty thousand and set them free. Similarly other Companions of the Prophet liberated a large number of slaves, the details of which are given in the Traditions and books of history of that period.

Thus the problem of the slaves of Arabia was solved in a short period of thirty or forty years.

5. The Right to Justice: This is a very important and valuCall Trudi on 07 3865 6533

able right which Islam has given to man as a human being.

The Holy Quran has laid down: “Do not let your hatred of a people incite you to aggression” (5:2). “And do not let illwill towards any folk incite you so that you swerve from dealing justly. Be just; that is nearest to heedfulness” (5:8).

Stressing this point the Quran again says: “You who believe stand steadfast before God as witness for (truth and) fairplay” (4:135). This makes the point clear that Muslims have to be just not only with ordinary human beings but even with the people of other faith.. In other words, the justice to which Islam invites her followers is not limited only to the citizens of their own country, or the people of their own tribe, nation or race, or the Muslim community as a whole, but it is meant for all the human beings of the world.

Muslims therefore, cannot be unjust to anyone. Their permanent habit and character should be such that no man should ever fear injustice at their hands, and they should treat every human being everywhere with justice and fairness.

6. Equality of Human Beings: Islam not only recognizes absolute equality between men irrespective of any distinction of colour, race or nationality, but makes it an important and significant principle, a reality. The Almighty God has laid down in the Holy Quran: “O mankind, we have created you from a male and female.” In other words all human beings are brothers to one another. They all are the descendants from one father (Adam) and one mother (Hawa).

“And we set you up as nations and tribes so that you may be able to recognize each other” (49:13). This means that the division of human beings into nations, races, groups and tribes is for the sake of distinction, so that people of one race or tribe may meet and be acquainted with the people belonging to another race or tribe and cooperate with one another. This division of the human race is neither meant for one nation to take pride in its superiority over others nor is it meant for one nation to treat another with contempt or disgrace, or regard them as a mean and degraded race and usurp their rights.

“Indeed, the noblest among you before God are the most heedful of you” (49:13). In other words the superiority of

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one man over another is only on the basis of God-consciousness, purity of character and high morals, and not on the basis of colour, race, language or nationality, and even this superiority based on piety and pure conduct does not justify that such people should play lord or assume airs of superiority over other human beings. Assuming airs of superiority is in itself a reprehensible vice which no Godfearing and pious man can ever dream of perpetrating. Nor does the righteous have more privileged rights over others, because this runs counter to human equality, which has been laid down in the beginning of this verse as a general principle. From the moral point of view, goodness and virtue is in all cases better than vice and evil.

This has been exemplified by the Prophet in one of his sayings thus: “No Arab has any superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab.

Nor does a white man have any superiority over a black man, or the black man any superiority over the white man.

You are all the children of Adam, and Adam was created from clay” (al-Bayhaqi and al-Bazzaz). In this manner Islam established equality for the entire human race and struck at the very root of all distinctions based on colour, race, language or nationality. According to Islam, God has given man this right of equality as a birthright. Therefore no man should be discriminated against on the ground of the colour of his skin, his place of birth, the race or the nation in which he was born.

Islam is the religion of peace and Islam itself means peace.

Islam always hates terrorism and things relating to hatred, enmity and disunity. The prophet of Islam has said that the best believer is the one who’s tongue and hands other people are safe. Living in peace and harmony is the fundamental right of every human being and we Muslims believe in that. Certain individual’s wrong actions have nothing to do with Islam.

Islamic Society of Algester wishes Hajj Mubarak to all the Hujjaj. May Allah keep them safe and being them back safely, Ameen.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 35

Zapping the brain with tiny magnetic pulses improves memory

By Elizabeth Maratos Teaching Fellow and Teaching Assistant at University of Leicester theconversation.com

THE practice of physically stimulating the brain in order to alleviate symptoms of illness and injury has been around since the early 20th century. For example, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is still used to alleviate symptoms of depression.

However, perhaps in part due to negative connotations associated with ECT, in modern medicine treatment of psychological disorders have tended to use other forms of intervention. These now mostly involve drugs or therapy. However, a recent study, published in the journal Science, sees a return to this idea of stimulating brain regions to improve brain function.

Researchers at Northwestern University have shown that targeted stimulation of regions of the bran involved in the functioning of memory can enhance our ability to memorise. The method they used was not ECT, but transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

In TMS, electromagnetic pulses are applied to the outside of the head over the part of the brain that is to be stimulated. The magnetic stimulation then induces electrical activity – that is, impulses – in those parts.

Importantly, whereas ECT has to be used with anaesthetics and muscle relaxants and has side effects, TMS is a less invasive procedure. In TMS the patient is able to remain fully conscious and may only experience mild physical symptoms such as a small tapping sensation to the head.

In neuropsychology, the region of the brain predominantly associated with memory is the hippocampus. However, the hippocam-

• Who doesn’t want more brain power? James Steidl

pus is located deep within the brain and its direct stimulation is difficult. Instead, the researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to identify regions located closer to the skull that connect with the hippocampus. They then targeted these cortical-hippocampal memory networks and tested the effects of this manipulation on memory.

Sixteen people were recruited for the study.

Half of these people received 20 minutes of TMS stimulation to the memory networks for five consecutive days. The other half received a “sham” application of TMS to the same networks. All people were also required to take a memory test both preced-

ing the TMS stimulation – which was treated as the baseline – and after the five days of stimulation.

The memory test consisted of a study phase whereby pictures of faces were paired with common words – and a subsequent test phase where people were again shown the faces and were required to recall the matching word. In addition, after the five days of TMS stimulation a second MRI scan was conducted in order to see if the “zapped” neural networks had changed.

The researchers found that memory in the people that had received the TMS application was improved relative to those that had received the sham TMS application.

However, what caused this improvement?

Did it improve specific brain networks work or just help the brain overall?

By conducting tests, such as stimulating regions of the motor cortex (making thumbs twitch for example) and also testing other cognitive abilities, the possibility that it was only the TMS stimulation “per se” on brain activity and function that produced the improved memory was eliminated. Also, MRI scans revealed increased connectivity in the brain networks targeted.

The authors of the study note that this procedure is not a cure for memory disorders following neurological illnesses or brain injury. Rather the application offers insight into the possibility of an alternative form of intervention than drugs for illnesses such as Alzheimer’s.

The problem with pharmacological intervention – that is, the use of drugs – is that it is hard to target specific regions of the brain – and due to this non-selectiveness many drugs have unwanted side effects. It is the recognition of the ability of TMS to target specific regions of the brain that offers the promise of a new approach to recovery of brain function following brain injury and illness.

Incidentally, if you are also envisaging some kind of futuristic alternative to smart drugs – such as that found in the movies Limitless or Lucy – you are probably not the only one. For now, however, the research focus is firmly clinical with the view to improving the lives of those with debilitating memory disorders.

Disclosure Statement Elizabeth Maratos does not work for, consult to, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has no relevant affiliations.

National Terrorism Public Alert System AUSTRALIA is at HIGH level of alert.

The National Terrorism Public Alert System is a range of four levels that communicate an assessed risk of terrorist threat to Australia. The four levels are: - low—terrorist attack is not expected - medium—terrorist attack could occur - high—terrorist attack is likely - extreme—terrorist attack is imminent or has occurred.

The National Terrorism Public Alert System guides national preparation and planning. It also dictates levels of precaution and vigilance to minimise the risk of a terrorist incident occurring.

The Australian Government regularly reviews alert levels.

Australian governments can change an alert level for one or more impacted communities, locations or sectors as required. A change in alert level(s) will be communicated by the Prime Minister or representative. Your Premier/Chief Minister is likely to provide you with more information specific to your state or territory.

While the public alert system may not directly affect your day to day life, it is important that you are aware that these arrangements exist. All Australian governments are committed to ensuring that you can have confidence in Australia’s ability to respond to any terrorist threat or activity.

Based on advice from security and intelligence agencies, the Australian Government has raised the National Terrorism Public Alert level from medium to high.

The advice is not based on knowledge of a specific attack plan but rather a body of evidence that points to the increased likelihood of a terrorist attack in Australia.

It is likely that we will be living with increased security for the foreseeable future.

There is no need to change your daily routine. The increased threat level should not change the way you live your life, but serves as a reminder to us all that terrorism is a threat around the world, including here in Australia.

Australia has a four-level system of alerts

for national counter-terrorism—Low, Medium, High and Extreme.

Protecting all Australians from terrorism and violent extremism is the Australian Government’s top priority.

The Australian Government, law enforcement and intelligence agencies, together with our international partners are actively working to counter-terrorism domestically and internationally.

Australia’s current counter-terrorism capabilities are sophisticated and well tested.

The government has recently introduced new national security legislation and announced new funding for counter-terrorism programmes.

Australia has a National Counter-Terrorism Plan in place. It details how Australian, state and territory governments and national security agencies will work together to detect, prevent and respond to terrorism.

A full list of national security agencies and their responsibilities is available.

The Australian Government will keep all Australians informed about what is being done to protect Australia and the current alert level through public statements on news media, including television, radio, newspapers and the internet.

Try to watch, listen to or read the news every day and keep an eye out for essential information.

In an emergency situation, the government will make public statements through the media so try to watch your television or listen to your radio for information.

There is no reason for any of us to stay away from public places or change our normal routines or domestic holiday plans.

Australian governments work closely with police and event organisers across Australia so the community can enjoy themselves in a safe and secure environment.

It is essential that we do not allow the threat of terrorism to change the way of life we value so highly.

The situation in Syria and Iraq has increased global concern about terrorism, but this should not stop people from travelling for work or holidays where it is safe to

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

do so.

For the latest international travel advice and to register you travel plans, go to the smartraveller.gov.au website.

The increase to the alert level may result in increased security at airports and other transport hubs. Travellers should be mindful of this when making plans.

The increased threat level means that in some places you might see a heightened level of security. These measures are designed to protect the public.

This is an opportunity for us to live safe together as a community. All Australians have a role to play in making sure that Australia continues to be a safe place to live and visit. Visit the Living Safe Together website for more information about communities.

Members of the public can assist authorities to keep Australia safe by reporting suspicious behaviour or activity to the National Security Hotline on 1800 1234 00. You can remain anonymous.

The Australian Government has published the National Guidelines for the Protection of Critical Infrastructure from Terrorism, including a guide of security measures to consider in relation to changes in the security situation, which should be used as a basis for your security plans.

If your organisation has been identified as critical infrastructure or a place of mass gathering in your state or territory, you should ensure that your security plans are up to date and that the counter terrorism unit within your police service has your current contact details (including for after hours).

Organisations in the aviation, maritime and offshore oil and gas sectors regulated by the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development will be provided with additional advice.

The current advice from official intelligence services is that the likelihood of this kind of terrorist attack in Australia is low.

Health authorities and emergency services have detailed plans in place to deal with such a situation and treat those affected.

www.indiantimes.com.au

In a chemical, biological or radiological incident, the most important thing to remember is to minimise your exposure, then watch your television or listen to your radio and wait for emergency services to tell you what to do.

Stockpiles of antibiotics, vaccines, antiviral drugs and chemical antidotes are in place.

The Australian Government Department of Health has health advice and more information about Australia’s preparations for health emergencies.

Make sure you are familiar with the emergency and evacuation plans for your workplace. If you are unsure, ask your supervisor.

Attend an accredited first aid course.

If you run a business or manage a large building, review your security measures.

You should also review your emergency and evacuation plans. Rehearse them, update if necessary, and make sure every member of your staff knows what to do.

Keep a careful check on garages and underground car parks so that you know whose vehicles are on your premises.

If you have security cameras, make sure they are working properly, check that the time and date are correct, and retain the recordings in case they might be of use to police in the future.

The National Guidelines for the Protection of Places of Mass Gatherings from Terrorism and Active Shooter Guidelines for Places of Mass Gathering, available on the Publications page, are useful resources for owners and operators of places of mass gathering.

Talk with your children about what is happening and what is being done to protect them. Encourage them to say how they feel.

Be honest about things being discussed in the media and in your community.

If anyone in your family becomes anxious to a point where it starts interfering with daily life, consult a health professional.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Health Beauty Wellbeing

Home remedies to remove the Summer tan Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty - 04 123 500 13

HEY Girls, Summer is already on its way, the sun can play havoc with your skin by causing tanning. Even after applying sunscreen and using an umbrella to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, you cannot escape tanning if you go out during the summer. But did you know that there are many home remedies that you can make use of to get rid of this tanning! From lemon juice, sugar to almond oil and honey, try these natural remedies which were hidden in grandma’s beauty cabinet and get the glow back in your skin.

Not many know that sugar is the best cleansing agent while lemon juice helps reduce tanning. Buttermilk soothes and softens the skin while coconut water brings a glow to it. Here are some face packs that

you can make at home to remove tan.

Cucumber juice and rose water pack: Apply a mixture of rose water, cucumber juice and a dash of lemon juice once a day.

Lemon juice helps reduce the tan while rose water and cucumber work as cooling agent.

You could also use lemons for skin problems like acne, blackheads, etc.

Honey and lemon juice pack: Mix two tablespoons of honey with a few drops of lemon juice and apply it on the affected area once or twice in a day. Apply the mixture for a few minutes and wash it off with cold water. You can also say goodbye other skin and hair problems using honey.

Turmeric pack: One can also prepare a paste adding a pinch of turmeric, lemon juice and raw milk. Apply the mixture properly and wait till it dries. Wash it off with cold water. Haldi has tonnes of other benefits to give you flawless skin.

Oats and buttermilk pack: Buttermilk soothes and softens the skin. Make a pack by mixing a tablespoon of oats with butter-

milk and apply it on your face or body to get rid of tanning. Oats also help in exfoliating the skin so this mixture is extremely beneficial.

Curd and lemon pack: In olden days,

granny used to rely on a mixture of gram flour, lime juice and curd to get a glowing skin. But one can use the mixture regularly to get rid of tanning.

Lemon juice pack for body parts: To keep your knees, elbows and other patchy areas smooth and clean, apply fresh lemon juice.

Keep it on for at least 15 minutes and wash it off.

Milk powder and honey pack: Prepare a paste adding equal quantity of milk powder, lemon juice, almond oil and honey. Apply it on the affected portions for at least 20 minutes. It will help reduce tan. One can also store it for a week. If you have time, use it three times a day for better results.

Sugar and lemon pack: Sugar is considered as the best cleansing agent. Apply the mixture of sugar and lemon juice on your face and wash it after 20 minutes. If you have dry skin, then add a few drops of glycerine to the mixture.

So be sun safe and enjoy summer!

Will see you next time. Nimisha

Sports drinks can undo benefits of exercise Scam Alert DID you know that consuming just one sports drink can undo the health benefits of a normal 30 minute exercise session?

Queensland Health Advanced Nutritionist Mathew Dick said that while sports drinks were a good source of hydration and energy for serious athletes doing intensive exercise, they were not designed for, or needed by, most people who exercised or played sport.

“Sports drinks are only suitable for people doing at least 90 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 60 minutes of high-intensity exercise in a single session,” Mathew said.

“For adults and children engaged in regular sport or exercise, water is the best drink before, during and after sport and physical activity.”

Mathew said a typical 600ml bottle of sport drink contained around 780 kilojoules, 9 teaspoons of sugar and 300 mg of sodium—about as much sugar as a can of soft drink and the sodium in half a slice of pizza.

“Adults would need to do 30 minutes of walking, housework or gardening to burn off the kilojoules (energy) in one bottle of sports drink,” he said.

Mathew’s comments come after new

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

research published in the Journal of Medical Ethics encouraged sporting bodies to review sponsorships from sports drink manufacturers because they could be lending ‘unwarranted credibility’ to products which may have questionable health benefits.

Simon Outram and Bob Stewart from the Institute of Sport, Exercise, and Active Living at Victoria University in Melbourne said that while sports drinks are marketed as beneficial or essential for sporting prowess and general health, the evidence has so far failed to substantiate these claims.

Outram and Stewart suggested that these sponsorships and the associated celebrity endorsement were likely to make it harder for the public to judge the effectiveness and value of these products objectively.

Cutting out sugary drinks is one small change you can make to lead a healthier and happier lifestyle and improve your health and wellbeing.

For more information about nutrition and to find ways to be more active in your every day life, go to Healthier. Happier.

Outram and Stewart’s research paper, Should nutritional supplements and sports drinks companies sponsor sport? A short review of the ethical concerns was published in September by the Journal of Medical Ethics.

www.indiantimes.com.au

QUEENSLAND Health has received a report about a current scam targeting members of the public.

The scammers, who claim to be from Queensland Health, are calling people and asking them to provide updated personal information over the telephone.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from Queensland Health, do not provide any personal information until you have verified that the call is from an authorised officer of Queensland Health.

You can do this by asking the caller to provide you with their name, work unit and the name of the hospital they work in. Once the caller has provided you with these details, contact the hospital on the general telephone line and ask the operator to connect you.

Contact Department of Health on 07 3234 0111 - Monday to Friday 8am5.15pm AEST. If you believe you have been contacted by scammers, you can also report it to the Office of Fair Trading Queensland www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 - 37

Health Beauty Wellbeing How to look like a Celebrity...The Secret Is Out!

By Heena Mohanlal Isn’t it just tempting and tormenting to see these glamorous goddesses in glossy magazines, online and on big screen looking so perfect and flawless.

Well ladies, the wait is finally over! The secret to those perfect look is out.

Celebrities may look phenomenal on the red carpet but they also have hordes of makeup artist with their expertise and miraculous products ready for even the tiniest of touch ups.

‘Believe me when I say, you won’t recognise most fashion model and celebrities without their professional makeovers. They are beautiful without makeup but jaw dropping stunning with it.’ stated Heena Mohanlal, Founder and senior consultant at Celebrity Makeovers.

Heena has been in the makeup industry for more than 15 years with numerous qualifications from academies in Australia and England. She has also been honoured with multiple awards.

Appointed as one of the senior

make up artists at Fiji Fashion Week in 2014. Fiji’s national radio station, Legend FM, and Fiji One TV featured Heena’s interview. Her work is routinely displayed in a number of newspapers, online magazine and online posts.

Heena is trained by one of the finest in the industry….The Ash Kumar Academy. Ash Kumar has worked with numerous Bollywood and Hollywood superstars like Madonna, Julia Roberts, Demi Moore, Aishwariya Rai, Kareena Kapoor and the list goes on. His work has been featured in Bollywood blockbusters such as Khabi Khushi Khabi Gham, Kal Ho na Ho, Hum Tum to name a few.

Fashion models and A list actresses are paid a phenomenal sum of money by cosmetic companies to endorse their products. It doesn’t necessarily mean they use it daily or even use it on special occasions.

‘Now I’m not implying these products aren’t good, some are actually fantastic. However, if makeup hasn’t been applied correctly, even the most expensive products will not give you the amazing look we ladies crave for’ says Heena.

In a nut shell to achieve a flawless look, applying the product correctly is more crucial than the make of the prod-

ARYA PRATINIDHI SABHA OF QLD INC

Evolutionary process IT has become a saying wonderful structure more that there has always been perfect than Greek, more a growth, a development copious than Latin and or an evolution in every more exquisitely refined Jitendra Deo sphere of life. T. Burrow, than Spanish or French.

President for instance, says in 2. Maxmuller, no great ‘Sanskrit Language’ (Page friend of India, says: 40)”Many of the changes of meaning ‘They have reduced the rich and powerful occurred in the natural ‘growth of the lan- idiom of the poets of the Veda to the inadeguage.” quate and impure jargon of the modern A.B. Keith has also used the word sepoy (soldier of Indian origin).” (Lectures ‘Development’, saying, “From the language on the Science of Language, Vol.Ip.36) of the Rigveda one can trace a steady Again on page 48 writes: ‘We are accus‘development’ of classical Sanskrit.” tomed to call those changes ‘growth’ of lan(History of Sanskrit Literature, P.4) F. guage, but it would be more appropriate to Bopp, father of Comparative Philology in call this a process of phonetic change or ‘Comparative Grammar of Sanskrit, Greek, decay.”

Latin and other Languages, Vol.1 has used Adding on page 272, he says: “On the the word ‘Development’ in this context at whole, the history of all Aryan languages is page 4—”Language in its stages of being nothing but a gradual process of decay.” and March of development.”

(Continued in next issue) Some Indian philologists also who have Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 followed western writers indiscreetly, have or Hari Chand 33454716 for informaheld the same view. tion on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Evolution refuted when we compare the Sabha of Queensland or log on: most ancient archaic Vedic language with www.aryasamajqueensland.com the modern classical Sanskrit, we find that the platitude is false and instead of ‘growth’ or ‘development’ there has been decay.

For instance — (1) In the Vedic Leseicon (Nighantu) we have 57 synonyms of ‘Vach’ (speech) of which very few have survived in classical Courtesy Jossy Thomman Sanskrit.

(2) Out of 101 names for water in Vedic WHEN you speak, vital energies and vital Sanskrit only 27 remain in classical organs are interacting. Five great elements Sanskrit. are involved (Sky, Air, Fire, Water and (3) There are 37 names for ‘Megha’ (cloud) Earth) when we speak. in Vedic Sanskrit, but only 15 are to be Not to contaminate the cosmic intelligence found in classical Sanskrit. (cosmic emptiness) around you with noise (4) And out of 26 synonyms of ‘Karma’ in which are meaningless. Words which are Vedic Sanskrit only 2 are left in classical uttered out of hypocrisy and contradictory Sanskrit. they are unhealthy and superficial.

It is gratifying to note that some distinLimit are verbalisation and not to expose guished western Ideologists’ are also irresponsible talk gossiping blackmailing opposed to this theory of growth or evolu- and hypocrisy spoken out of ego, fear and tion of language. As for instance— inner conflict.

1. Sir William Jones says: “The Sanskrit Never utter a word without being conlanguage, whatever be its antiquity, is of a

uct. It makes a massive difference to know how to apply it correctly.

Over the last two years, Heena has started two businesses, one of which is Celebrity Makeovers. The team typically work with actors, actresses, fashion models, radio presenters, medical professionals, journalists, teenagers and even grandmothers.

Their expertise includes theatre, glamour fashion photo shoot, bridal photo shoots, wedding functions, corporate and private events.

Their work includes makeover for Bollywood fashion designer Manish Malhotra models, Rachael Moore the National ambassador for Mission Beautiful Australia, Olympia Kwitoski the deputy editor of FAME magazine, a number of Fiji Fashion Show models and up coming actresses and back stage theatre.

Heena is a firm believer that great makeup begins with great skin and her experience as a skin care therapist ensures each client achieves her beauty potential. If the skin is beautiful, the rest will automatically fall into place.

Millions of women throughout the world wear makeup, few of them have been taught how to apply it correctly. With the increase in demand for a perfect makeover, Celebrity Makeovers

Masterclass have come highly recommended and gained a lot of popularity.

Celebrity Makeovers share their professional tricks and techniques on how to enhance, define and alter facial features with makeup alone! Right from everyday makeup to a night out in the town. More importantly creating a look that suits you and your personality. The demonstration is simple and very clear so that everyone can benefit and learn the art of fabulous makeup in just a few steps!

‘Staying ahead of the beauty industry is key to us, we endeavour to deliver exceptional results and provide our clients with the most up to date, tried and tested techniques, product and services without compromise.’ shared Heena.

Well ladies, it’s about time we all stopped dreaming about looking like a celebrity and actually live it...You know what they say ‘every problem has a solution’. The choice is yours.

Have a beautiful day!

CELEBRITY MAKEOVERS Heena Mohanlal 2872 Logan Road, Via Frankcom Drive, Underwood 4119 Tel 1300 88 76 29

Bricks and cement DEAR reader, it is with great joy we rejected, complained about bring you the word of God. We all and called names by peohave opportunities to build false ple. She had every reason walls around us to feel safe and to be upset, offended and secure. These could be due to failangry. Instead of building a ures, setbacks, disappointments, wall like Jericho and let betrayal etc. If you are not careful feelings take over, she these walls can keep us trapped Pastor Joseph Dass remained peaceful and inside. They keep us from trusting stayed in faith. Instead of others, doing our best at work, having a focusing on the situation she kept focusing loving and healthy relationship, and can on THE ONE who could change her situalimit us from using our gifts and talents. tion. She did not come with bricks and In the book of Joshua we read that the chil- cement to build walls around her. When dren of Israel came upon a city named Jesus saw her faith, He healed her daughter.

Jericho on their way to Israel. This city was Friend, God wants you to have and enjoy securely shut so no one came in and no one life. Are you going out each day with bricks went out. The city walls were so strong that and cement to build walls around you every they were humanely impossible to break it time someone offends you, ignores you and down. Over the years people had been lay- bypasses you? God is not interested in ing brick after brick to make it strong and building up your Jericho, He is more interimpenetrable. Likewise in life, due to past ested in building you up. hurts, disappointments and setbacks you Let us pray, “ Dear Heavenly Father we can build walls around you. Walls of mis- thank you for the life you have given us, trust, insecurity and rejection. thank you for helping us to keep these false Again in Matthew 15 v 20-22, it says that walls down, and thank you for helping us to when Jesus came to the region of Tyre and enjoy life, in Jesus name”.

Sidon, a women whose daughter was God bless you severely demon possessed, came to Jesus Pastor Joseph Dass for help. In the process she was ignored,

Health of speech

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

scious. When we open our eyes let it be a conscious perception. Movement of thought have conscious relationship with (vital) energy.

Thought is made up of words, words have sound. Sound is related to prana the vital energy which carries the FIRE principle in its movement.

Don’t let thoughts and words disturb the rhythm of vital energies. Our mind is disturbed by either a tension or conflict, worry and anxiety. So mind is never steady therefore it splits and splintered.

A fragmented personality is never capable of holistic perception.

Vitality of consciousness depends upon

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everything contain in the body and mind.

There is shrinking of neurochemical system due to fear.

Speech is rooted in the mind, the movements of mind rooted in pranas. (Vital Energy) it is the movement of the vital energy that maintain the equilibrium of the body.

When you understand the meaning of words, through words, through speech, the meaning become the living substance. The understanding gives the wisdom. Wisdom is the essence of life.

Health of speech is the bridge that connect the ultimate reality.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Health Beauty Wellbeing

Acne scarring can be prevented

DARK SKIN LASER PECIALISTS

• Terri Cross and Dr. Philip Manfield.

ACNE is a common, chronic skin disease that is the scourge of many a teenagers life.

Acne occurs when blockage and/or inflammation of hair follicles and their attached sebaceous glands become blocked. Leading to non-inflammatory or inflammatory lesions or a mixture of both. However, the adverse effects of poorly or incorrectly treated acne, can last the rest of your life with pits, papules and hyper-pigmented areas permanently marking your face, chest and back. The good news is that this scarring can be prevented, but only early intervention with the correct treatments can achieve the prevention of scarring.

Teenagers with darker skin types are more prone to this permanent scarring because acne can cause hyper-pigmentation or darker marks due to the blockage and infection of the follicle. It is critical to prevent this scarring by using the correct treatment products and skin cleansing treatments such as Dermasound Ultrasonic facial, a treatment Terri Cross at Rosalie Cosmetic Medicine has been using successfully for many years.

It is important to understand that the treatment of acne and the treatment of acne scarring requires a completely different approach, and that prevention of scarring is significantly superior to trying to reverse the scars. There are products and treatments available to prevent this ugly scarring effect

Laser Treatments Skin Cancer Screening and Surveillance Ultrasonic Skin Treatments Anti-Wrinkle Injectables

• Happiness is clear skin to most women.

of acne. The scars from acne occur as a result of damage to the deep skin tissues from the build-up of infection and sebum in the hair follicles, causing the body to respond with its usual approach to injury, inflammation. This process can last for many weeks, and the tissues do not usually return fully to their pre-damaged state, leaving permanent scarring. Not all acne will leave scarring, but the acne should be treated as early as possible to prevent this unsightly outcome.

In some cases, further medical intervention is required to reduce the risk of this permanent scarring of the skin. At Rosalie Cosmetic Medicine, Dr Philip Manfield has over 30 years of experience with all skin types, and with acne affecting all age groups from teenagers to the late-onset group of acne suffers. To see Dr Manfield or Terri Cross, call 3369 5433 (104A Haig Rd, Auchenflower).

• • • • • • • • •

Hair Removal Veins & Capillaries Vascular Lesions Rosacea Venous Lakes Acne Pigmentation Surgical Scars Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-ageing

Call Terri Terri Cross today for for a free consultation Tel: 3369 5433 E: terri@rosaliemc.com.au

104A Haig R Road, oad, A Auchenflower uchenflower (parking a available) vailable)

www.rosaliecosmeticmedicine.com.au w ww.rosaliecosmeticmedicine.com.au

cosmetic c osmetic medicine medicine

NOVEMBER DEADLINES - BIT Advert Bookings - 3 November, 2014 Email prod@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3865 6533

Children’s hospital open on 29 November THE Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital will see its first patients on Saturday November 29 when the hospital officially opens its doors to the public.

Children’s Health Queensland Board Chair Susan Johnston said all current inpatients at the Royal and Mater Children’s Hospital would also be moved to the new hospital on the same day. ‘‘I'm pleased to be able to confirm our opening date two months ahead of time to give our patients and families, and of course our staff, a sense of certainty moving toward the end of the year,’’ Ms Johnston Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

said. ‘‘Patients and families will also feel more secure knowing that appointment letters for the new hospital will start arriving around four weeks before we open. ‘‘Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital will be the public hospital for most children in Brisbane and Queensland’s tertiary referral hospital for serious childhood injury and illness,’’ she said. ‘‘It will also be the largest and most advanced paediatric facility in Australia when it opens.” www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 - 39

Auckland’s waterfront: a picturesque Sofitel showcase

By Rama Gaind

Standing on a picturesque waterfront location in Auckland, it’s hard not to become mesmerised by the remarkable stories of epic voyages and journeys that have shaped New Zealand’s history and identity.

The thirst for knowledge is further instilled as you walk through an exceptional maritime site facing the waters of the Waitematā Basin in the bustling Viaduct Harbour in the heart of the city.

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour becomes the base as your personal expedition begins at the Voyager Maritime Museum where you learn how New Zealand’s spirit of exploration has emerged many of the world’s greatest maritime pioneers. Voyager honours them and those who sailed to the limits of their imagination.

On offer are eight distinct experiences to guide you through the nation’s remarkable maritime history, including the stunning new exhibition, Blue Water Black Magic – A Tribute to Sir Peter Blake. Galleries include the stories of the original Polynesian journeys to New Zealand, to the stories of Kiwis and the Coast.

Voyager also offers the fantastic opportunity of sailing aboard a heritage vessel on the beautiful Waitematā Harbour.

As a showcase of novel design, the Sofitel appears to float at the point where ocean meets land with city and sea views … a place where French strength and erudition amicably blend with Auckland’s imposing harbour.

Intrepid, smart yet stylishly understated, the hotel’s dramatic water-filled lobby, chic interiors and tranquil private marina is in perfect harmony in a metropolis known as the ‘City of Sails’.

Golden celebrations General manager Wouter de Graaf says, the Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is regarded as the “ultimate prestige address for this brand … where our ethos is gastronomy, design and culture … “ Lava Dining for both breakfast and dinner was a treat, where executive chef Nick Honeyman’s culinary expertise ensured a refined feasting experience!

Learning of the quality highlights of the city were expertly imparted by assistant manager Manik Kumar.

In the Sabrage Bar, Kunal Sharma acquainted us with the art of sabrage, a ceremonial technique for opening a champagne bottle by ‘beheading’ the bottle with a sword.

Astrology

Aries - March 21 - April 20 Ganesha foretells that you shall make slow and steady growth on the professional front. At times the growth may be so slow that it may not be noticeable, but rest assured you shall be making progress. And in due time you will also be rewarded. Your communication skills shall be sharp, which you shall put to good use in making new contacts. Some of these may be very influential people, which will eventually benefit your career. But when you speak in public, make sure you do so clearly and nobody misunderstands you. If you are a businessman, too, your progress will be gradual. Try to get the best out of the resources at your disposal. The last week will be auspicious for taking major decisions. Family is likely to demand your attention, so you will have to tackle things maturely to balance both fronts. On the financial front, you shall be comfortable and will be able to provide your family with all material comforts.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22 Your workload is going to be heavy this week, predicts Ganesha. In fact, you may be overwhelmed by the files piled up on your table, and may feel stressed just looking at them. You need to set your priorities, your short-term goals, and tackle them one by one, instead of getting bogged down by the sheer weight of the files. Also, conserve your energy and do everything necessary to keep yourself fit and healthy. On the positive side, the undercurrent of optimism in your nature will be intact, which will help you in accomplishing your tasks despite the tight deadlines. Although you may not have much time to spare with your friends and family, you will manage some quality time for them. Criticism will hurt you, so you will try to maintain a low profile. On the financial front, there will be no problems and you shall have enough to meet all your necessities. You may develop an inclination for spirituality.

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21 With too many things demanding your attention, Ganesha says this month you may be a little confused and may find it difficult to set your priorities right. However, no matter how pressing other matters may be, Ganesha advises you to put your career and professional life foremost.

Whatever work you have in the office should be completed come what may, so don't make the mistake of taking a break while a task is ongoing. Be practical and set realistic targets. You shall be in a jovial mood throughout the month and will keep people around you in good humour. You may be a bit sentimental, but make sure you don't get carried away by your emotions. Avoid taking any major decisions during the month. Some introspection is called for, in order to identify what exactly has subdued your creativity.

Businessmen need to avoid conflicts with partners. If you are planning to invest in the stock market, do so only after taking expert guidance.

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

• Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour makes the most of its waterfront location, with its own pontoon for yachts and water taxis.

• Owner of Khoobsurat in Mt Roskill, Anil Ahuja is proud of how his business has established an enviable reputation for being a fashionable Indian outlet in New Zealand. Photo: Rama Gaind

It was befitting to realise that the Sofitel chain celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2014. The hotels across Australia have commissioned Donald Williams of Global Arts Projects to curate an exhibition of compelling and evoca-

• Bharatiya Mandir, in Mt Albert, Auckland. Photo: Rama Gaind

tive images of Paris (in homage to the brand’s elegant French origins and art-de-vivre) by Melbourne-born, San Francisco-based photographer, Jon Rendell.

Rama Gaind travelled at her own expense.

www.ganeshaspeaks.com Cancer - June 22 - July 22 Despite the fact that you are working very hard, you may not be very satisfied with your job. The reason might be that you are not getting enough appreciation from your superiors. Some of your coworkers may actually be trying to undermine you by complaining about you to the bosses. Besides, you shall be very kind-hearted, a fact which many people around you may try to exploit. However, Ganesha advises you to be patient, as things will soon get better. Be alert, and handle everything maturely instead of losing your temper or letting depression take over.

On the financial front, there are likely to be some extra expenses, but that will be balanced off with the extra money that is likely to pour in. Matters related to property, especially certain disputes within the family, may cause some anxiety. But if you can manage to stay objective and cool-headed, you will be able to resolve things to everyone's satisfaction.

Leo - July 23 - August 22 A very productive month ahead is foreseen by Ganesha for you.

You will be totally focused on your work, and will win the praise of your peers and superiors alike. You will also be very objective and may not even be aware of the gossiping and office politics going on around you. However, your views will be given due importance, and in fact your seniors are likely to rely heavily on you for getting all ongoing tasks accomplished. They will also seek your opinion before embarking on any new project. In your personal life, you are likely to meet people from different fields, and interacting with them on an intellectual level shall broaden your perspective immensely.

Your communication skills will come in handy. Some financial issues are foreseen, but Ganesha assures you that these will get sorted out without much difficulty. You may be required to marshal all your resources to handle some delicate situations, and this is where your flexibility and maturity will help you overcome them.

Virgo - August 23 - October 22 Ganesha predicts that this month may be a roller-coaster ride for you on the work front. Be alert, conserve your energy, and keep an eye on rivals who may be out to tarnish your image. Moreover, Ganesha advises you to be flexible in order to overcome the obstacles that you are likely to face this month. Also, be positive and don't get bogged down by minor setbacks. During the dull phases you would do well to make the best use of the time by clearing the clutter, both in your mind and in your personal and professional space. Your financial situation this month may cause some anxiety, with the ever-widening gap between income and expenditure, but this can easily be brought under control by implementing some serious cost-cutting measures. For investments, seek expert guidance, and if you wish to take a loan, this month is quite auspicious. Be careful about maintaining harmony in your relationships, because your tendency to speak the brutal truth can at times hurt your near and dear ones.

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

Libra - September 23 - October 22 There is going to be heavy workload this month, predicts Ganesha. The pressure can get under your skin if your concentration wavers, but if you can force yourself not to get distracted by anything and work with full focus, it will almost be a joy-ride. Besides, accept the fact that not everything on your plate needs urgent attention; there are some things which can easily be put off for later, thus relieving some burden on you at the moment. If you are a businessman, expect some travel, and if you tag your partner along, you are very likely to strike some lucrative deals. On the financial front, you shall be comfortable, and you shall have enough to set a substantial chunk aside to secure your future. However, avoid impulsive shopping. If you have been eyeing a new house, this month is auspicious to finalise the deal. At times you may feel over-energetic, and Ganesha advises you to expend it in constructive ways.

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 This month you may feel deprived of the recognition that you feel you deserve, both from peers and superiors. However, Ganesha advises you to carry on with your work sincerely regardless of it, and not to think of rewards or recognition; they will come in due time. For those of you who are planning to change your job, the planets suggest that this is not an auspicious month for it, so postpone all such plans. Although you shall come up with some out-of-the-box ideas, many of them may not be practical enough to be implemented. However, there is no need to lose heart, as at a later date when the time is right and your company has the resources, they may very well be implemented. Expenses are likely to increase this month, mainly because you shall spend a lot on providing creature comforts to your family members. Pay sufficient attention to your personal life to keep things going smoothly. Take good care of your health.

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 22 This month you shall be very balanced in your approach to life. Neither success nor setbacks will be able to shake your equanimity. Ganesha predicts that work pressure is bound to increase and will, in fact, make you more enthusiastic to complete your tasks within the given deadlines. However, you, too, have your limits, and at some stage during the month, the pressure may get too much for you to handle. Fortunately, you shall be able to take a break and recharge your batteries. If you are a businessman, be careful about all your dealings, as this month you are likely to incur some losses. Also, on the financial front you may face some difficulties, and may not be able to meet all your requirements. Try implementing some cost-cutting measures, as taking loans is not advisable. You shall be quite busy on the social front.

Some family gatherings are on the cards, and in all likelihood you may meet some of your extended family members.

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Capricorn - December 23 - January 30 Ganesha foretells that you are at a very delicate stage in your career, and the last thing you should do is to get into arguments with your superiors. Be extremely careful while interacting with your peers and superiors both, as one wrong word could cost you heavily. The work pressure on you will keep mounting, and co-workers too may not be too helpful, so brace up to go solo. This month is the right time to take stock of your career, and try to analyse whether you are moving in the right direction as regards your long-term objectives. For businessmen, the stars indicate that you need to exercise due care while finalising any new project or contract.

Read the fine print carefully before you put your signature to it. Things are expected to be smooth on the financial front, except for some anxiety caused by property-related issues. There may be no time for your personal life, and maybe you need a break to spend some time with your loved ones.

Aquarius - January 21 - February 19 Ganesha foretells that on the professional front, things are not going to be smooth, especially as the pressure on you is likely to increase and it will be difficult for you to live up to the expectations that your superiors have from you. Though your inclination to stand up for the truth is praiseworthy, this month you are advised to weigh your words carefully and strictly avoid any arguments with anyone. On the other hand, this month is very favourable for businessmen. Your turnover and profits are likely to increase. You need to make new contacts by putting your communication skills to good use, broaden your circle and try to expand and reach out to different and unexplored markets. As for your finances, you may barely be able to meet your anticipated expenses with the actual monetary inflow.

If you do have some money to spare, Ganesha advises you to spend it on some hobby which will refresh your mind. A spot of meditation can greatly help you.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20 There will be many positives in your professional life this month. The most important one being that your work will be appreciated by your immediate superiors and the senior management.

Though you tend to be more of a dreamer, certain experiences may have taught you to be practical, and if you can persist in being practical, you will surely taste success, foretells Ganesha. If you have been planning to switch jobs and have received an offer letter, you may serve the notice in your current job.

As for businessmen, Ganesha advises you to be alert, and take quick decisions without being impulsive, so that you don't miss out on any good opportunities to make money. Try to expand your operations to new territories which you have not explored yet, and even abroad. In your personal life you shall be helpful to others and thus grow in social stature. Finances may pose a bit of a problem, but you may seek help from family and friends.

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Real Estate News First female CEO to lead a renewed focus on member services

THE Reserve Bank has noted how low funding costs have led Australian banks to compete for home lending more actively than in previous years. The Reserve Bank Governor, Glenn Stevens spoke recently at the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Economics.

In his opening remarks, he pointed to historically low interest rates as ‘the most remarkable feature’ of the global economy, which has led to cheaper home loans for Australian borrowers.

Mr Stevens commented that the most remarkable feature of the international

scene at present is the exceptionally low volatility of financial prices – the lowest observed over the past 25 years for sovereign bonds, equities and foreign exchange.

“Yields on sovereign debt of the major countries are also very low, the lowest on record in some cases,” Mr Stevens said.

“Spreads on investment grade and financial corporate bonds have reached multi-year lows and in Europe yields on so-called ‘peripheral’ sovereign bonds have in some cases fallen below previous historic lows,” he said.

REIA

tioners need, and making robust representations to government on their behalf. This will be my focus, and the focus of the REIQ under my leadership.

“I also intend to spend as much time as possible meeting members around the state, gaining a greater understanding of their needs, and ensuring that their association is working every day to support them in what they do.”

Ms Mercorella’s appointment is effective immediately.

ENDING IAN L AW AL A TR

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Home lending increasingly competitive, says RBA

real estate.

Ms Mercorella said she was honoured to lead an organisation with such a strong history and standing within the Queensland business community.

“I am very much looking forward to tightening the REIQ’s focus on its core operations – supporting our members and providing advice, training and education tailored to their needs,” she said.

“The REIQ is also responsible for raising professional standards within the profession, providing the tools and resources that practi-

S RD

person for the job was already working with us.

“Back in June, Antonia stepped in to stabilise the organisation at a critical time following the sudden departure of the previous CEO. In this role she has demonstrated a commitment to refocus the REIQ on its core business of supporting members in every aspect of their work.

“She fits very closely within the demographic of our members and the modern profession, and her appointment reflects the board’s desire to reflect the changing nature of the REIQ’s membership. We are very confident that she is the right person for the job at hand.”

Ms Mercorella has worked with the REIQ as General Counsel and then as Deputy CEO since January 2011. She has also worked as principal legal advisor to the Real Estate Institute of South Australia, and as a commercial lawyer specialising in property and

M

THE Board of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has announced the appointment of Antonia Mercorella as the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer, following an exhaustive national search.

Ms Mercorella becomes the first female CEO in the organisation’s history, and also the youngest person ever appointed to lead the REIQ. REIQ Chairman Rob Honeycombe said Ms Mercorella, who has acted in the position since June, would lead a renewed focus within the organisation on the needs of members and the essential services needed to support the real estate profession.

“The board is delighted that Antonia has agreed to lead the REIQ during a challenging period, but one which offers many opportunities as the real estate market grows,” Mr Honeycombe said.

“Although we engaged expert recruiters to conduct a national search, ultimately the best

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Things to know before you Can: *Provided the details initially agreed do not change, conditional pre-approval guarantees the amount you can borrow but not the interest rate. If you do not find a property and accept our formal loan offer within 90 days of the conditional pre-approval date, we will need to obtain from you updated financials and confirm that the loan still meets your needs and financial objectives. Applications are subject to credit approval. Full terms and conditions will be included in our loan offer. Fees and charges are payable. Interest rates are subject to change. As this advice has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should consider its appropriateness to your circumstances before acting on the advice. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. Australian Credit Licence Number 234945. Mortgage Innovation Managers are Authorised Representatives of the Commonwealth Bank.

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Real Estate News Tenant to Rational talk on housing prices Owner: how to lost in a bubble get there faster

SE STA LL GE IN 2 G Q LA U I C ND KL Y

THE latest house price index figures released by RP Data show a year-onyear increase in property values in Sydney of 14.3%. This has sparked the current hot debate on property prices and speculation of a price bubble. Though, it seems many people have forgotten what house price indices represent.

The All Ordinaries, the index of broad Australian equities market movements, increased by around 9% in the 12 months to the start of September.

As investors understand, this doesn’t equate to all stocks on the market increasing in price by 9% over that period.

For example, shareholders in BHP, one of the largest ASX companies by market capitalisation, have suffered a modest loss over that period, even after dividend payments are considered. And as the All Ordinaries Index value has fallen 6% over the past month, there have been some stocks that have fallen more (Myer shares tumbled nearly 20% in the month) and others that have gone against the trend (insurer QBE was up 1.2% in September).

Similarly, a house price index gives a measure of the broad property market movement. In the case of the RP DataRismark Index, the change in the index value reflects the average increase or decrease in property prices.

Prices in Australian capital cities, the typical benchmark measure of the Australian residential real estate market, increased by 9.3% in the year to September.

In Canberra and Perth, however, the

reported growth in real estate prices was significantly lower at 3.2% and 1.7% respectively. Outside of capital cities property price growth was also a modest 3.3%.

Even in Sydney, which has experienced the strongest price growth of any capital city, there are marked differences in the rate of price appreciation between different suburbs.

Western Sydney clearly captures this with residents in South Granville enjoying an increase in median property price of around 17.5%, while reported median prices have shown virtually no annual change in Auburn.

Blunt policy tools are not the answer It wasn’t so long ago that the average price of Perth’s houses surpassed Sydney’s on the back of a mining industry-led boom in the West. At the national level, these differences in property price growth are the result of shifting labour and economic factors, and to a lesser extent state-specific regulation.

Within a city, local amenities and employment, as well as the preferences of the potential home buyers are reflected in price growth variation.

This is a key point that needs to be remembered when blunt policy tools are debated. Measures to tighten home loan lending, increase borrowing costs or remove negative gearing affect the market as a whole, whether in Sydney, Perth, or a regional centre.

For policy to be effective it needs to firstly identify what it aims to achieve.

Housing policy is a double-edged sword. Rapidly rising house prices can put home ownership beyond the reach

of younger and lower-income Australians. But policy designed to lower house prices can put existing homeowners at risk of falling “underwater” - holding negative equity in their property. Again, it is typically lower-income households that are most at risk in this scenario.

Cooling the bubble talk The growing pressure for a policy response to rising house prices is in part due to fears of a price bubble. The last time the Australian or Sydney house price index increased at more than 10% in a year was 2009.

Unsurprisingly, there were calls then too that increased regulation was required to prevent a property bubble burst and housing crisis.

Since 1996, Sydney real estate prices have grown at an average annual rate of 7.26% though, with considerable variation in that time. A growth rate in a single year of 10% in any other asset market with these dynamics would not be cause for alarm. Yet housing has this perception of being low risk, pervading our cultural psyche. Something idiomatically described as “safe as houses” is viewed as guaranteed or risk-free.

When faced with the reality that property prices go up and down, sometimes fast and sometimes slow, we seek ways to explain the conflict with these cultural expectations. Assigning the label or “price bubble” shifts the responsibility for our own irrationalities back on the market.

Author: Danika Wirght Source: theconversation.com

By Gagan Tandon 0425 158 280 MAKING the transition from long time renter to proud new homeowner may seem difficult, even out of reach. But do not fear, with a few shifts in your strategy you could be holding the keys to your very own property in no time.

Talk to a Mortgage Adviser You would be surprised at the number of home loan options on the market these days.

As there are several lenders to choose from- as well as hundreds of products, surely there is something to meet your personal circumstances.

Advisers are well-versed in these options as well as borrowing requirements, so it is best to talk it over rather than spinning around in circles visiting several different lenders and browsing various websites. Talking to an adviser will put you on a right track.

Mortgage adviser can also

help you establish goals such as identifying saving targets, minimum home deposit and working out dates as milestones.

Research funding opportunities and deposit requirements Depending on where you live and type of property you want to purchase (established or new) chances are that there are concessions available for your first home buyer loan.

The federal and state governments have various incentive grants to help Australian residents make their way onto the property ladder.

If you need financial help with securing a loan, you may be able to access the equity of a willing family member or a friend to help you get there.

Another option may be to use rental payments as proof of genuine savings.

While only certain lenders offer this solution and is subject to borrowing criteria, it may be something you would benefit from.

You may also wish to establish a disciplined budget to help you save for a depositthe more you have to offer at the beginning of the transaction, the more likely you will pay off the loan faster later down the track.

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WHATÊS ON!

OCT 14 / NOV 14

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 proudly sponsors this page for community organisations / non profit organisatons! To view full list of upcoming events visit www.indiantimes.com.au WORLD OF LOLLIES - 3 DAY GRAND OPENING SALE - 10% OFF STOREWIDE FOR 3 DAYS - 10, 11, 12th OCTOBER – 2938 Logan Road, Underwood. Instore Lucky door prizes. FREE Sponge Bob party bags to the first 200 customers each day! Spend $50 or more in a single transaction, get a Case (24 bottles x 250ml) of Smurfs kids drinks for Free! Follow on Facebook

Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) - Conch Laying Ceremony (Sangusthabanam) for Navakgraha Sannithi (Altar) - 11 October – Hindu Ahlaya Sangam Qld Inc (HASQ) cordially invites you to participate on Sangusthabanam (Conch laying ceremony) for the Navakraha Sannithi in our new temple. Contruction for the Navakraha Sannithy in our new temple will commence on the auspicious day. Devotees who would like to sponsor a Sangu (conch) and place it on the foundation of the Navakgraha alter please contact Temple Priest 07 5547 7302 or Committee President Mr Wimal 0411 594 394. For more information visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org Lalitha Kalalya School of Bharatanatyam Annual Day – 11 October – 6pm to 8pm at Sunnybank State High School, Boorman Street, Sunnybank. The event will be purely classical and unique as the artists below 10 years of age are preparing to showcase their dancing skill to the much bigger audience. To make it more delightful, Guru Smt. Padmalakshmi Sriram will also share the stage with her students. For volunteers and support please contact 0406 860 078 / 0420 860 078. Visit www.lalithakalalaya.com Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir DEEPAWALI CELEBRATIONS - 11 October – at Canon Hill Anglican College, Corner of Junction Street and Krupp Rds, Cannon Hill.

For further details contact Prakash Shandil on 0408 876 414 or Mrs Anita Singh at the Mandir. Diwali Celebrations at home on 23 October - 178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall.

Australian School of Meditation and Yoga Kids Meditation and Yoga Workshop - 11 October - 2-4pm at 236 Montague Road, West End. Meditation, Yoga, Games, Craft. $15 includes afternoon tea. To book call 3844 8441 or email brisbane@asm.org.au

EIDFEST - Eid Family Night @ Dreamworld 11 October – 6pm to 12 midnight.

Celebrate Eid-al-Adha with your family at Dreamworld in this exclusive once a year event. All food Halal, Tiger Island Show, Maghrib Prayer Jamaat. Tickets available online at www.eidfest.com.au

Nritya Bharati School of Kathak Dance 2014 Annual Concert - 12 October – 5pm at Indooroopilly State High School, Ward Street, Indooroopilly. Tickets: Single $15, family $40. Food available for purchase on the night. For more information contact Mortuza 0408 877 072 / Sushanta 0402 884 386 GOPIO Business Concil - Award Night - 15 October – You are invited to the inaugural “Outstanding Person of Indian Origin” Award Night. The Award is to be presented to Mr Peter Varghese AO, Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia. 6.30pm at Victoria Park Golf Course Complex, Herston Road, Brisbane. To register please visit www.trybooking.com/Embed.aspx?eid=1041 09 Sponsorship opportunities available, please contact Shyam Das 0412 031 301 / Ramanathan 0404 335 811 / Yousuf Alikhan 0401 006 430 / Usha Chandra 0419 775 416 / Viral Shah 0410 549 689 Star Alliance Entertainment presents Padmashri Pankaj Udhas – JASHN – 17 October - 8pm at Sleeman Sports Complex, Chandler. For tickets email tickets@pankajudhaslive.com.au or contact Jaymin 0430 568 708 / Hemil 0424 332 913 Shepen International – Top Tibetan Lama helps Brisbane people discover the real purpose of life - 17 October – Dzogchen Rinpoche will be in Maroochydore at Millwell Rd Community Centre, to give a

public talk entitled – What is the real purpose of your life? Doors open at 7pm. The talk begins at 7.30pm. Tickets can be purchased online at www.trybooking.com.DEDU For further information call 0416 404 826 or email qld@shenpenaustralia.org The talk will be followed by a weekend teaching on How to Truly Follow your Heart on 18th October at the same venue and a five-day retreat entitled Rest in the Heart of the Guru form 19th – 24th October at Springbrook.

BRIMM Brisbane Maharashtra Mandal Festival of Lights - 18 October – 3.30pm at Cavendish Road State High School, 695 Cavendish Road, Holland Park. This Diwali we are going to take you on a journey to discover some of the finest art forms that India has to offer. A vibrant concert featuring an eye pleasing dance (Kathak) coupled with percussion instruments (Table), harmonium and vocals, present by very talented performing artists from Maharashtra.

Children under 5 are free - Children 5-12 years $20 and others are $30. The entry includes afternoon tea, concert and dinner.

All RSVP and payments must be finalised by Wednesday 15 October. For more information email brimmandal@gmail.com Jvala Festival - 18 October – 5pm at St John’s International College Auditorium, College Avenue, Forest Lake Qld. Renowned malayali Poet and Lyricist Shri Murukan Kattakkada and playback singers Afzal and Akhila will be performing during the evening. FREE entry, however seats are limited, please RSVP by 10 October to confirm your attendance. Bring your family and friends. Email jvalaaustralia@gmail.com or phone 0469 176 003

Queensland Telugu Association - Dasara and Deepaavali Celebrations - 18 October at Aspley State School, Maundrell Terrace, Aspley. We invite enthusiastic members to come forward and participate in this year’s Diwali function to make it a grand success.

Please contact QTA cultural secretary Ratna Budhawarapu Garu on 0412 112 313 or Navaneetha Garu on 3341 7711. Full details provided soon.

Banyo District Community Group in Association with BCC – Diwali Celebrations 2014 – 19 October - 2.30pm-5.30pm at 284 St Vincents Rd, Banyo. Free entry * Free Children’s activities * Food & Drinks * Giddah, Bhangra * Bollywood dances * Cultural items * Stalls. “The Banyo Beehive Bandstand”. For more information contact Sam Narayan 0412 720 880 or Robyn Morris 0424 298 786 Brisbane City Council – Diwali Festival 25 October – 5-10pm Chinatown Mall. The ever popular night time Diwali festival, or festival of lights, is back for another year and will be celebrated in the Chinatown Mall. Check out the festive lights and enjoy the energetic music and dance performances. Local food will be on offer for the night. A night the whole family will enjoy.

Visit http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/whatsbrisbane/events-council-venues/valleymalls-markets-events#/?i=3 for more information.

Northern Suburbs Bowls Club - Enjoy a BBQ at Open Day - 26 October – The community of all ages is invited to come along and enjoy a BBQ at an Open Day for all in Bowls. This gold coin donation day for charity will be held from 12 noon at The Northern Suburbs Bowls Club, Wavell Heights. The club is an inclusive, multicultural one and would like all to experience bowls, overlook the club, meet others and consider being part of this friendly social club. The low impact, therapeutic game of bowls with health benefits is enjoyed by women and men who keep active and engaged in this sport with social activities as a group. For those interested, Free bowls coaching is available. Children are welcome, as we have small rubber bowls. Enquiries are welcome any time and those interested in social contact and/or bowls can phone Greg, at the club on 3359 2142, email bowls@nsbc.com.au or come along to the club at 175 Edinburgh Castle Road.

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

Elevate Church, Forest Lake – Star Party 31 October – A positive alternative to Halloween. 4.30pm-6.30pm at Grand Ave School, Cnr of Grand Ave and Centennial Way, Forest Lake. Cost: Gold Coin. Costume: Strictly no ghoulish or scary costumes, only positive costumes allowed. Games, face painting, animal farm, rides, craft, food.

Children under 18 must be strictly supervised by parents/guardian/carer. For more information contact 0418 745 179 or email rajmavisforjesus@yahoo.com.au

Queensland Fiji Football Federation - QFFA – QIDC 2014 – 30 Oct to 2 Nov – at 244 Mortimer Rd, Acacia Ridge. Kids Soccer, Jumping Castle, Family fun, licensed bar. For more information visit www.qffa.com.au Tamil Association of Queensland present Deepavali 2014 – 1 November – 5pm at Australian International Islamic College, 724 Blunder Road, Durack. Music, Dance, Dinner. For more information and ticket booking please contact Prabha 0413 945 078 / Ansar 0424 046 696

Jalaram Samiti of Brisbane Australia celebrating 8th Jalaram Jayanti – 1st November – 3pm at Nudgee Junior College, Twigg Street , Indooroopilly. Bhajans, JalaramBapa’s Katha followed by Maha Prasad (Dinner) Pandit Archarya Shree Upendrabhai Joshi, Auckland New Zealand.

For more information contact Rakesh Khatri 0411 418 450 or Pratap Narsey 0405 137 270

Fiji College of Agriculture, Ex-Students and Associates – Re-Union / Get-Together / Talona Session followed by dinner – 1 November – 6pm til late at Bay Leaf Restaurant, 1/281 Sandgate Road, Albion.

Cost $25 per person,. Drinks BYOG or buy at restaurant – 3 course meal, all you can eat buffet. For Reservation please phone Virendra Pratap 0451 863 411 or Daniel Kumar 0412 083 466 or email danielkumar48@hotmail.com RSVP COB 24 October.

Hindu Society of Qld Inc - Gayatri Mandir Calendar of Events 2015 – at 178 Lyndhurst Street, Boondall. * 26 January, 24th Anniversary Celebrations * 15 Feb to 17 Feb, Maha Shivraatri * 5 March, Holika

www.indiantimes.com.au

Dahan * 21 March to 28 March, Ram Naomi Katha * 4 April, Hanuman Jayanti * 19 July * 24th Annual general meeting * 31 July, Guru Purnima * 30 August to 6 Sept, Shri Krishna Janam Astami * 17 Sept, Ganesh Chaturthi * 14 Oct to 22 Oct, Navraatri (Durga Naomi) celebrations * 31 October, Annual public Diwali celebrations 2015 at Canon Hill Anglican College, Corner of Junction Street & Krupp Rds, Cannon Hill (or alternative venue). * 11 November, Deepawali celebrations at home. * For further details contact Prakash Shandil on 0408 876 414 or Mrs Anita Singh at the Mandir.

Weekly Events...

The Mantra Room – FREE Meditation & Delicious Pure Vegetarian Meal – Australian School of Meditation & Yoga warmly invite you to join us for a FREE evening of Krishna Bhajans and delicious vegetarian prasad at the Mantra Room 236 Montague Road, West End. Wednesdays 7pm / Fridays 6pm / Sundays 5pm. For more information phone 3844 8441 or email brisbane@asm.org.au Sai Baba Aarti Program – Every Thursday 7.30pm – Virginia State School, 1678 Sandgate Road, Virginia (next to Virginia Train Station) Dinner provided. Enquiries call 0405 392 793.

Nundah Yoga - FREE meditation classes – Nundah Community Centre, 14 Station Street, Nundah.

The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association - Gold Coast Bhajan - monthly Bhajans held every third Friday of the month starting at 7.15am at the Helensvale Community Centre - 31 Discovery Rd, Helensvale.

Activities include Bhajan recitals, short educational presentations and free vegetarian dinner. All are cordially invited to attend.

For further information please contact Director/Religious Activities, Mr S Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or gchcan@gmail.com or visit www.goldcoasthindu.org

Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) Brisbane (South Maclean) – For full list of upcoming events please visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 47

Bollywood & Entertainment

Sangeet Mela 2014 Courtesy Shen Flindell “Actually that was the first time I’ve been to a classical concert, and I really enjoyed it. I’m much more interested in my tabla practice and seeing more concerts now.”

(18 year old tabla student” “I think the Indian community were sceptical about what kind of event it would be

and didn’t turn up, but now that we know just how good a classical Sangeet Mela can be I promise I will bring lots of friends next year.”

“Thanks and congratulations for organizing such a beautiful event!!”

THESE are some quotes from attendees of the inaugural Brisbane North Indian

Siddharth - now showing!

Siddharth Starring: Tannishtha Chatterjee, Rajesh Tailang Director: Richie Mehta Trailer: www.youtube/wNMDwpMrxmQ SIDDHARTH is the spellbinding and gorgeously wrought tale of one father's jour-

ney across India in search of his son.

Mehendra is a chain-wallah, eking out a living fixing zippers on the bustling streets of New Delhi. To ease his financial woes, he sends twelve-year-old Siddharth to work in a distant factory. When the boy doesn't come home for the Diwali holiday, Mehendra and his wife Suman slowly begin to suspect that he was kidnapped by child traffickers.

• Above left: Helena Joshi (Kathak dance) with accompanists Shen Flindell (tabla), Menaka Visvanathan (vocal), Joseph Nand (harmonium), Murali Ramakrishnan (bansuri) • Above: Rahim Zullah (vocal) with accompanists Maharshi Raval (tabla), Joseph Nand (harmonium), Sangeet Mishra (sarangi)

Classical Music and Dance Festival, Sangeet Mela 2014. It was artistically a magnificent event but unfortunately the audience did not reflect the quality of the performances.

Sangeet Mela 2014 opened in the early afternoon with a beautiful Odissi dance performance by Lillian Warrum from Melbourne. The opening session also included performances by young artists receiving the Sangeet Premi Rising Star Awards. Anjuha Ketheeswaran presented Raga Madhuvanti on sitar; Rising Star runner-up in the vocal category Eman Rawi presented a beautiful khayal in Raga Bhimpalassi and showed that he certainly has a bright future; percussion category winner Arka Tito Basu played tabla solo in Jhaptaal and Teentaal. The first session concluded with special guest vocalist from Sydney Dr Vivek Apte, who presented a wide range of compositions in Ragas Miya Malhar and Hameer.

The late afternoon session opened with Rising Star dance award winner, Ku. Helena Joshi, with live accompaniment by Shen Flindell (tabla) and several other notable local musicians. It was indeed a very impressive performance and the highlight of the Rising Star Award performances on the day. The final Rising Star Award performance was presented by young vocalist Senjuti Maitra who sang a Khayal on Raga Desh followed by a bha-

jan. One of day’s highlights followed, with a tabla solo by Pt Govinda Chakraborty of Delhi, followed by duet in Rupak Taal with Shen Flindell. Rahim Zullah sang Raga Behag in sitarkhani teentaal, finishing with tarana in drut teentaal.

The evening session was worth the ticket price alone, opening with Kathak dance by Darshana Hingu, starting from Raga Shankara in Rudra Taal, followed by Teentaal and finally a Thumri. The Kathak dance performances with live accompaniment were very popular with the audience.

Nothing quite matches the excitement of dancer’s movements in synchrony with live tabla and vocal.

Saikat Bhattacharya performed a heavenly Raga Bageshree with tabla accompaniment

by Maharshi Raval (Sydney), and finally came the genuine grande finale, sarangi solo by 8th generation master Sangeet Mishra accompanied by Pt Govinda Chakraborty on tabla, who both entranced and dazzled the music lovers in attendance with Raga Charukeshi and Mirzapur Kajri.

Though the audience was smaller than expected, the passion shown by all in attendance demonstrated that there is a place for Indian classical culture in Brisbane, and the organisers have high hopes that Sangeet Mela will become a successful annual event not just attracting audiences from our local region by from all around the country.

Fan did not require a big female star: Shah Rukh Khan THE female lead in Shah Rukh Khan's forthcoming Yash Raj film Fan is yet to be revealed but the Bollywood superstar says the movie is such that it does not require any big leading lady.

The 48-year-old actor is currently shooting for the film and will be seen in a different avatar in the movie helmed by Band Baaja Baarat director Maneesh Sharma. "I have 'Fan' with YRF and Maneesh. There are two girls in the film. It is a film where I don't think you need a big lady star. It is cosy interesting, different film. It is one of the challenging films that I have done in 20 years.

We are still discussing as to how we can take it ahead. It is a story of a fan of a movie star," Shah Rukh said in an interview.

The actor has signed Rahul Dholakia's next movie, Raees and Rohit Shetty's next.

He is also in talks for another movie but nothing has been finalised yet. "Raees it is a space I have never tried, it is a different film. Rahul Dholakia narrated the film to me and I liked it very much. They are cosy for me as an actor. Then I have Rohit's film and another which I have not signed yet," he said.

Shah Rukh is gearing up for his Diwali release Happy New Year, which will see him reunite with his Main Hoon Naa and Om Shanti Om director Farah Khan. The 48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

www.indiantimes.com.au

heist comedy also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani, Deepika Padukone, Sonu Sood and Vivaan Shah and will hit theatres on October 24.

Shah Rukh, who has produced the film via his Red Chillies Entertainment, said he plans to expand his production house and is also open to venturing into the regional space. "We want to expand and plan to make three-five films a year may be with me or without me but not 10-12. We have started the process. The film has to have quality, essence then only we will make it.

We want to take time and make good quality films," the Chennai Express star said.

"I want to make a Marathi film. Rohit and I were talking about it but nothing concrete has happened. It is a good space. Not just Marathi but any other language film," HT Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Bollywood & Entertainment

Super model Alisha Farrer in Bollywood SUPER model and journalism student Alisha Farrer from Western Australia has been performing on stage since the age of five. Her talent, skills and confidence and family support have taken her to a level most young girls counld only dream of.

Alisha is currently signed and is filming in Mumbai, in two Bollywood movies as the main lead. The films which are still in producation are “Hotel Beautifool and ‘Jhol’. her modelling career, stage exposure, catwalk, television adverts and magazine articles have spread as far as London, Canada, Mumbai, New Delhi, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne and she also has fans in the USA. A very talented stage performer she has recieved numerous awards and recognitions in the last four years. She was awarded the

best dancer and the most talented in Jaipur competing against 30 Indian dancers, and she was awarded 1st runners up in Miss North India 2012 New Delhi, Gurgoan.

Alisha loves acting and performing and enjoys shooting in Mumbai where she has made many friends in the industry. She hopes to continue to fulfil her dreams and become as popular as her favourite Ashwariya Rai Bacchan someday.

Her proud parents who come from New Delhi and migrated to Australia 26 years ago and proud of her achievements and look forward to the release of her films. One is due to release in January 15 and the other in February 15.

Keep an eye out for this rising star, we wish her success.

A star also needs to be given the respect: Homi Adajania supports Deepika in tweet row INDIAN director Homi Adajania has thrown his support behind Bollywood star Deepika Padukone in her spat with a leading newspaper over remarks it made about her cleavage on social media.

Last month a leading Indian daily posted a link on Twitter to a year-old clip of Padukone which was shot from above, adding the caption "OMG! Deepika Padukone's cleavage show."

The post sparked furious debate about media standards across traditionally conservative India, and Bollywood stars rushed to offer their support to the 28-year-old Padukone.

"At some level you have to realise that your 'star' is a human being and needs to be given that respect," said Adajania, speaking at the Busan International Film Festival on Sunday.

"If a person like Deepika didn't draw the line now, where will it go?" he added, describing such coverage as 'totally ruthless'.

Padukone has starred in blockbuster Bollywood hits such as Om Shanti Om (2007) and Chennai Express, as well as Adajania's latest feature Finding Fanny.

The newspaper's post had brought an immediate response from the actress, who has 7.5 million followers on Twitter. She replied: "YES! I am a woman. I have breasts AND a cleavage! You got a problem!!??"

India's highly competitive media market has increasingly turned to lurid headlines and the use of social media to attract readership and revenue but Adajania said it was an issue that had to be tackled in the country.

"I think Deepika was totally right in standing up for what she stood up for but if you get into mud-slinging it dilutes the issue," said the director. "I wish this was a topic that we just didn't have to discuss and I hope that is one day the case again."

Adajania has brought his English-language road-trip comedy Finding Fanny to Busan and the 42-year-old director said the film was directed towards an evolving audience for Indian films, both at home and abroad.

"There is a change coming about," he said.

"You couldn't have made a film like Finding Fanny 10 years ago -- in English with a narrative that doesn't follow Bollywood traditions.

"You will always have a massive audience that wants films following the Bollywood tradition of singing and dancing and romance but what we have found is there is an audience there who wants something different as well."

HT Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014 — 49

Sports News

MS Dhoni becomes It is important to maintain consistency: ISL team Chennaiyin FC co-owner Jitu Rai

• Bollywood actor and brand ambassador of Olympic Gold Quest Saif Ali Khan felicitates Asian Games gold medalist shooter Jitu Rai during the Olympic Gold Quest function in Mumbai. (PTI Photo)

MUMBAI: Jitu Rai, the first Indian shooter to win five international medals in a calendar year, said he is not too concerned about travelling to Brazil for the 2016 Olympics but emphasized that he wants to perform consistently rather than be happy with his qualification.

"I don't give importance to qualifying for the Rio Olympics so much. What is important is how I keep performing consistently rather than just qualifying. Maintaining a good score is very important," Rai said after being felicitated by Olympic Gold Quest.

The 27-year old won gold in the 50m pistol and bronze in the 10m air pistol team events at the recently- concluded Incheon Asian Games.

"I won gold in 50m and 10m. My qualification was good, 585 out of 600 is not bad, and I have not heard people qualifying better than this. I was in the top two during the finals and the Korean was striking well and struck a 10.9 and the entire arena burst in

celebrations, due to that commotion I lost my rhythm and to get back in to it was difficult," he said.

The ace marksman added that winning has become a habit and said he did not expect to win the gold at the Asian Games as he did not practice very well.

"After the gold in the Commonwealth Games, I did not practice so well, so did not expect to win. I never thought that I had it in me to make it big. This was all possible due to the rigorous practice. Now when people call me to felicitate me, I don't live in that 'awe'. Earlier, I felt I would lose focus but not now. Winning has become a habit and its important that it stays so," he said.

The Olympic Gold Quest on Monday named Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan as its brand ambassador and he pledged Rs 20 lakh for the athletes to prepare for the Olympics.

TOI

CHENNAI: After the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, Mahendra Singh Dhoni has become the latest cricketer to own a football team in the high-profile Indian Super League, investing in the Chennaiyin FC ahead of the event starting October 12.

Dhoni, the current Indian cricket captain, has pencilled a deal to be a co-owner of Chennaiyin FC along with Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan.

"Dhoni has signed a deal to become a co-owner of Chennaiyin FC," a source from IMG-Reliance, the organisers of the much-anticipated league said.

Last month, Dhoni's deputy in the Indian cricket team was announced as co-owner of ISL team FC Goa. Tendulkar is a co-owner of Kerala Blasters while ex-cricket captain

Sourav Ganguly is a co-owner of Atletico de Kolkata.

The ISL kicks off on October 12 in Kolkata while the final will be held on December 20.

TOI

Koevermans steps down as Indian football coach SILIGURI: Following a spate of mediocre outings, Indian football team coach WimKoevermans today stepped down from the post soon after the country suffered a defeat in an international friendly, here.

After India lost to Palestine 2-3, Koevermans declared in the post-match presentation ceremony that that he isn't continuing as coach of the Indian national team.

"This was my last match as the coach of the national team and I will not be taking up the post of AIFF's Technical Director for private reasons," he said.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my stint and stay in India. It was a nice gesture by the players," he referred to the Guard of Honour which the players gave to Koevermans at the end of the match.

Koevermans' contract as the national coach

with AIFF ends on October 31, 2014.

"When I took charge I was told to change the style of play and there has been a huge improvement on that front. We created chances in every match that we played and played some good football. But that hasn't been enough," he stated.

"I never like losing. The boys stayed so much committed on the ground today," he said in reference to India's match against Palestine.

"But it was visible that they had better players in almost every position. We gave them a very tough game and could have avoided conceding the first and the third goals. But that's football."

The news came as a shock for me and I wish him luck for all his future endeavours."

Asian Games: India's women champs speak up, take a stand MC Mary Kom’s success in the past one-and-a-half decades has something to do with the background she comes from. Born in a family of cultivators in Kangathei village near Imphal, she tilled the land and took care of her siblings, being the eldest in the family. She went on to become a five-time world champion, London Olympic Games bronze-medallist and has now been crowned Asian Games champion.

Tintu Luka hails from Kannur district in Kerala. Her father, a mason, left for Saudi Arabia to support the family when she was young. As a child she walked long distances through the hills to reach her school. Her talent was spotted by sprint queen PT Usha, who turned her into a champion; and at Incheon the 24-year-old earned India two medals —gold in the women’s 4x400m relay and silver in 800m.

Surely, Incheon saw Indian women in a new avatar.

The Games were also about women overcoming fear and apprehension to make their voices heard. While not taking anything away from the India men’s hockey team, which triumphed over

Pakistan to secure a Rio Olympics berth, or a certain Jitu Rai, whose performance in the shooting arena put him in a different league, it were the women who grabbed the headlines.

It started with Shweta Chaudhry, an underrated but talented shooter, who won a pistol bronze and gave India their first medal at Incheon. The Games culminated for India with a bubbly bunch of women kabaddi players making it a one-sided contest against the sturdy Iran.

Discus thrower Seema Punia wanted to tell her detractors that no matter how hard they tried to run her down, she would come back triumphant. Twice denied the opportunity to compete at the Games, the towering Haryana girl’s ambition was to clinch gold at Incheon before time ran out.

“Only my husband (Ankush) knows my suffering. I couldn’t compete at the 2006 Doha Asian Games because my father was ill and in 2010 I couldn’t qualify,” said Seema, whose career has been dogged by doping allega-

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

tions ever since she was stripped of the World Junior Championships gold at Santiago, Chile in 2000.

Maligned by the system, which has made her look like a dope cheat every time she stepped into the cage in the last decade and a half, she gave a perfect rejoinder with her singular performance. “I never reacted to what they said...just kept training for the event under American throwing coach Tony Ciarelli in California.”

The story of Khushbir Kaur, winner of the 20km walk silver, is www.indiantimes.com.au

even more touching. Her father passed away when she was only seven and her mother had to do menial jobs to sustain the family of five. Her mother’s determination to make her a sportsperson, even though Khushbir loved studies, was the driving force behind what she has achieved today — a firstever silver for the country in 20km race walking.

Even though she still doesn’t like the gruelling event, Khushbir says she’ll continue doing it “for my mother”.

Historical Win Not just Khushbir, MR Poovamma, one of the members of the women’s 4x400m relay quartet, owes her success to her mother. “Her presence gives me inner strength. When my legs were aching and lungs gasping for breath, I thought of mother. It gave me the strength to drive ahead of the rest,” she had said after breaking the 52-second barrier in the blistering June heat at the inter-state meet in Lucknow.

That India won the 4x400m relay,

which helped the country set an Asian Games record, was due to the efforts of Poovamma, who anchored the race and came up with the best time. The mother wasn’t there to witness history being made, but Poovamma was not afraid this time. She was ready to face the challenge without her mother accompanying her.

As in kabaddi, the women’s 4x400m relay is an event the country’s runners are expected to win every time they take to the track, such has been their dominance. But the citadel seemed to be falling following the doping scandal that broke out after the 2010 Guangzhou Games. Six top quarter-milers were suspended and the relay team was in s shambles.

But the fortitude shown by the quartet of Poovamma, Priyanka Pawar, Mandeep Kaur and Tintu Luka, hailing from diverse backgrounds and coming together to rebuild a team in tatters, will go down in Indian sporting history as one of the most resolute fights on the track ever.

HT Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

Sports News

QLD Vs NSW, Annual Golf Challenge: Fiji Queensland Golf team make it three in a row!

THE annualâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;golf challenge was held in Brisbane on the 20th and 21st September between Fiji Qld Golf team against Fiji NSW, 64 players took part in the two day

event held at North Lakes Golf Club and Virginia Golf Club.

Dinner was held on Saturday night (20 Sept) for approx 80 guests.

The winners were the Queensland team, this is the third year in row Queensland has won the tournament.

Next year the tournament will be held in

Sydney. For more information on becoming a member contact Anil Chandra 0412 785 447.

Photo & information supplied by Anil Chandra.

F1: Jules Bianchi in 'serious but stable condition' FORMULA One driver Jules Bianchi is in "serious but stable condition" following emergency surgery for a severe head injury after a crash during the Japanese Grand Prix, the FIA said..

Bianchi's parents, Philippe and Christine, arrived in Japan to see their son, who is at Mie General Medical Centre following Sunday's crash into a trackside recovery crane.

Hospital officials declined to comment on Bianchi's condition.

"Bianchi is in a serious but stable condition," FIA spokesman Matteo Bonciani told The Associated Press in a phone interview.

"That's all I can say, and I'm doing this update on Jules' parents' behalf."

Bonciani added that Gerard Saillant, the president of FIA's medical commission, who oversaw Michael Schumacher's treatment when the German was in a coma, also flew to Japan with Bianchi's agent, Nicolas Todt.

Bianchi, 25, crashed on the 44th lap in Sunday's rain-shortened race at the Suzuka circuit. His car went off at Turn 7, where Sauber driver Adrian Sutil had crashed two laps earlier.

According to a report issued by FIA, Bianchi lost control of his Marussia car, travelled across the run-off area and hit the back of the tractor that was being used to remove Sutil's car.

The Frenchman was unconscious when he was taken from Suzuka to the hospital.

Sunday's race started at 3pm local time. An approaching typhoon led to suggestions that the race would be pushed up to an earlier start, but it wasn't.

Four-time world champion Alain Prost, whose rivalry with the late Ayrton Senna is one of the greatest in the history of the Call Trudi on 07 3865 6533

sport, questioned the presence of the tractor on the track and said Bianchi's accident could have been avoided.

"A fundamental mistake has been made," Prost told TV channel Canal Plus. "It's been 20 years since we have seen a crash as serious as this one. This was not a race incident. It was obvious that the track was becoming dangerous. We need to find out where the mistake has been made and make sure it won't happen again."

Formula One has not suffered a death during a Grand Prix since Senna's fatal accident at Imola in the San Marino Grand Prix in 1994, where Roland Ratzenberger died the day before after a crash in qualifying.

"The new generation (of drivers) is not used to this kind of accidents," said Prost, acknowledging the security improvements made over the past 20 years. "This crash reminds me of the '80s, when we had this type of accident every two races."

At the time of Bianchi's crash, rain was falling steadily and it was getting dark.

Several drivers complained of not being able to see properly.

Bianchi's family has already lost a member in a crash. In 1969, Bianchi's great-uncle, Lucien Bianchi, died in an accident during testing at the Le Mans race track when he crashed his Alfa Romeo into a post, a year after winning the prestigious endurance race.

HT www.indiantimes.com.au

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52 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2014

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