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Volume 14, Number 11 Saturday, September 9, 2017

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India Day Fair by GOPIO Queensland biggest ever

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From the Publisher WELCOME to our September issue, what a bumper Month August has been, well let’s begin with GOPIO Queensland’s India Day Fair, bigger and better than any year, congratulations to the entire team, which excelled under the leadership of President Usha Chandra. For the very first time Brisbane City landmarks like City Hall and Victoria Bridge were lit up in the Indian Tricolour, a very commendable initiative of GOPIO Queensland very well executed by Akashika Mohla. This effort has been applauded by Indian High Commission and has been reported worldwide.

Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio as the official media partners are very proud to be associated with this mega event.

Now there is a lot that has been said about Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio being the official media partners, now when we take on any event we give it our one hundred percentage, the total package, many people may not realise of all the promotion channels that we utilise, like our weekly (EDM) to our five thousand subscribers, our Facebook following is quite substantial, our web promotion is very effective, combine this with Australian Indian Radio.

The thing to note is that event organisers are free to advertise in any media that they wish, obviously they will not be recognised as official media partners as such but all other media are free to report on any of these events either pre or post event, but we have not seen that happen.

Any media partnership that we take on comes a considerable cost to us, it’s not as simple as just putting an ad in a particular page, consider the full process, from your initial inquiry, someone has to take that inquiry and respond to that, often there is many to and from interaction before the deal is prepared and finalised, all this takes time. Then there all the internal departmental conversation to prepare the script and record the Radio advertisement, the Facebook posts don’t just happen, someone has to actually do it, the same goes for the web posting, it does not just appear there, again someone has to program that. The weekly email blasts has to be prepared before being sent out, look there is

much more than meets the eye that goes on behind the scene, and all I am trying to say is that it takes considerable costly resource to promote your event. Every interaction that you have with any of our staff is costing us time and money, time that could have been interacting with a paying client. Many event organisers are very considerate and they realise this and give us the due respect, many don’t event acknowledge us, enough said let’s move on to my next topic.

We are proud media partners of India Australia Business and Community Awards, now here is an organisation that has given us the due respect in return. Sonia Gandhi, has taken the awards to the next level and it was pleasing to see that we were duly recognised at the IABCA stars gala event held at Australian Maritime Museum. I would like to congratulate the award finalists, it takes a lot of personal effort to excel in the community sector, you people have been shortlisted and that in itself is quite an achievement. It has been my proud privilege to have been appointed as part of the expert panellist.

Working with such an esteemed and highly professional individuals has been quite an experience, the decision making process leaving aside personalities but judging each category on its merit. It was not easy as all candidates were of such high calibre we wish all the finalist well, the winners will be announced in the Gala function to be held at Brisbane City Hall on Friday 13th October, the night of nights a function not to be missed, I would like to see you all there on the night.

Congratulations to organisations for Krishna Janam Astanami celebrations followed by Ganesh Chatruthi, with Navrathri coming, many Garba functions have been organised please take part in as many as possible. Diwali is also just around the corner, many organisations are gearing up for their Diwali functions so wishing everyone all the very best for all these auspicious festivals.

Until next Month Happy Reading, Happy Reading Umesh Chandra

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Inside

OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra

• Letters to the Editor........................2 • Migration Matters...........................3

ADVERTISING: Sugandh Chaturvedi sales@indiantimes.com.au

• Local News..................................5-25

EDITOR:

Trudi Tarres

• Cartoon Corner..............................14 • Who, What, Where, When.....26 & 28 • Health & Well Being................32-35 • Real Estate................................36-39 • Business Directory/Classified.......40-41 • Astrology...........................................41 • What’s On................................42-47 • Bollywood & Entertainment...48-49 • Sport............................................50-51

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

2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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Partner Visas - Handy Tips

ALTHOUGH most partner visa applications seem straightforward, there are some important pitfalls to watch out for when lodging a partner visa application. We briefly touch upon these issues and welcome any queries that you may have.

An offshore application for partner visa maybe lodged prior to getting married, where an intention to get married has already been established, however the marriage must take place before the application is decided / assessed. However for all onshore applicants, the application can only be lodged post marriage.

For defacto relationships, applications maybe fast tracked by registering your relationship, especially in cases where you have not been living together for 12 months. Although a relationship maybe registered, applicants are still expected to produce evidence of a joint and ongoing relationship / home. Also some states and territories impose specific residence requirements on sponsors.

Cohabitation and financial inter dependence are the two most crucial factors in any partner visa application. Applicants must demonstrate joint bank accounts that are actively used, joint leases or home ownership papers, joint home or car insurance policies, joint utility bills and other evidence of joint financial interdependence.

Statutory Declarations (Forms 888) from friends and family play a critical role, persons providing these declarations must be Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible NZ citizens, it is always good to provide one of the declarations from the parents of the sponsoring partner.

Police checks are required not only for the applicant, but also for the sponsoring partner and any non migrating dependents. It is important to note that any prior convictions of the sponsor may create a potential for the application to be refused.

457 visa holders lodging an onshore partner application, maybe granted a bridging visa

while their application is processed, however if the 457 visa is cancelled prior to finalisation of the partner visa application, that may lead to complications for the 457 visa holder, hence expert advise is crucial in such matters.

It is always advisable to submit a decision ready application, as it is most likely that a decision ready application will be allocated and dealt with by the department on priority.

Decision ready application partner visa applications include health checks, police clearances, forms 888, good quality evidence of cohabitation and financial interdependence.

If you have questions regarding your individual circumstances please do not hesitate to contact us. Note that the first consultation with Migration Guru is free of charge. Migration Guru has assisted a vast number of clients for more than 14 years. We have more than 50 years of collective experience in the industry and a team of Migration Agents / Lawyers. With our vast experience and skills, we are able to provide accurate migration or legal advice based on our clients’ personal circumstances.

Our team may be contacted by via email or call 07 3036 3800. Follow us on Facebook for all the updates to Migration Law https://www.facebook.com/migrationguru/ Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 18, 127 Creek Street, Brisbane, QLD. Phone: 07 3036 3800 MARN 0324607, 1175591, 1382609, 1386041, 1683052 & 1466522. www.migrationguru.com.au

Disclaimer:- The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues, and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 3

Speaking the language of small business

STARTING your own business is a challenging feat for most people.

It’s even more so when you’ve moved to a new country and English isn’t your first language.

When Ammy moved from India to Australia seven years ago and joined her husband Sagar Soman in starting an interior house cleaning business, the couple did not expect it would be easy working in this country.

“Before moving to Australia, I knew a little English but had not practiced speaking it in India, which meant I was not very confident talking to people,” said Ammy, who is based in Brisbane.

“Starting a business really helped me adjust and improve my English after moving here.

A great help to us was our business coach who gave us a lot of guidance and support.

“More importantly, it helped us make new connections and break down a cultural barrier that stops many in our position from integrating with other Australians.

This is a topic that has recently been highlighted during August’s Queensland Multicultural Month – a time when culturally diverse citizens come together to acknowledge the great work migrants and refugees offer to Australia’s culture and prosperity.

“In our line of work there are marketing steps and one of those is to actually go out and speak with different people – this especially helped us meet new people and boosted our confidence.”

The couple now manage four employees and said their business had helped them develop their new way of life.

“Now that our business is expanding and we are taking on more employees, we have the flexibility to take time off to spend with our family and the friends we have made.

“We get to plan each day and decide when we can have a break.

“We also have the freedom to go away when it is required and feel at ease knowing that the business is in safe hands.

“We hope to continue growing a franchise and learning more about the marketing side of business too.”

According to Mike Dowling, who is a renowned Queensland philanthropist and businessman, starting a small business with the right support can be life changing.

“Of the 10.6 million people employed in the private non-financial sector in Australia, 42 per cent were employed by small businesses,” said Mike.

“I love the fact that my business, James’ Home Services is helping people from all walks of life, all backgrounds make a solid living.

“It’s been a real privilege to help Ammy and Sagar on their journey to becoming Australians – Australians who are making a real contribution to their community.”

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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Businesses awarded $6.6 million to launch their journey into global markets Senator The Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science.

Senator for NSW

4 SEPTEMBER, 2017: Eleven Australian businesses will share in $6.6 million in Government grants to help launch their innovative products, processes and services into domestic and international markets.

I am delighted to announce the funding offered under the Accelerating Commercialisation element of the Government’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme.

Recipients will use the funding to conduct commercialisation activities, proving the viability of their products, processes or services and preparing them for market.

Businesses are required to dollar match the grant funding.

The programme’s experie nced Commercialisation Advisers will help the recipients to navigate this often challenging stage of product development.

The latest round of funding will assist: • a Melbourne business to market its worldfirst, fully recyclable suite of packaging containers for transporting temperature-sensitive perishable products; • a Perth company to commercialise its au-

tomated motor vehicle crash alert device, to help save lives around the world; and • a regional Queensland business to commercialise its chilled baby food range for Australian retail and export markets.

Accelerating Commercialisation Director Larry Lopez said it was great to see the programme continue to support entrepreneurs, researchers and businesses to find the right commercialisation solutions for their novel product, process or service.

“To date under the programme, 253 successful commercialisation grants worth $128.6 million have been awarded to innovative businesses across the country. These grants are supporting projects across a wide range of industry sectors, and with Australian Government support many of the projects are already achieving success in global markets,” he said.

For more information on how to apply for an Entrepreneurs’ Programme commercialisation grant, go to business.gov.au/ep.

More information on the grant recipients can be found at business.gov.au/ac funding offers.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 5

India Day Fair by GOPIO Queensland biggest ever From page 1 GOPIO Queensland India Day Fair 2017, was by far the biggest ever, the successful event in its sixth year attracted record number of people this year. History was created when two Brisbane land marks; City Hall and Victoria Bridge were lit up in the Indian Tricolour; this gesture was applauded by Indian High Commission and Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs. This initiative of GOPIO Queensland was executed and managed by Akashika Mohla.

GOPIO Queensland India Day Fair is recognised by three levels of Government, Brisbane City Council is a major supporter and so is Queensland Government. Queensland Premier and Minister for Multicultural Affairs released the following media statement.

“Roma Street Parklands today came alive to the sounds, taste and visual delights of Indian culture as the India Day Fair gets underway.”

Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

Attending the celebrations today, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said this year’s Fair was particularly significant as it also played a major part in helping celebrate 70 years of Indian independence.

“It’s such a delight to be here today to join with the Indian community and hundreds of other Queenslanders immersing ourselves in Indian culture,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“Whether you’re here for the fantastic cuisine, the colourful parades or the joys of watching and maybe even participating in some Indian dancing, today’s Fair has something for everyone.”

The Premier said the Fair also celebrated Queensland and India’s strong relationship which has gone from strength to strength over the years.

Success Story of the Month Niharika Naini was born in Hyderabad and completed her schooling there, post this she completed her Bachelors Degree in Hyderabad at Bharat Institute of Technology and Engineering in 2010. After completing her Bachelor’s Degree Niharika worked in Wipro as a Technical Support Associate for two years, before moving on to Genpact as IT Support Associate for another year.

Subsequently she decided to come to Australia to further her studies and gained admission into the Prestigious James Cook University at Brisbane. While at James Cook University she worked in Projects like “Dataset Analysis” and “ProDesignersz” website to sharpen her technical skills.

Post completing her Masters Degree, Niharika decided to pursue a soft skills program called the ACS Professional Year at Indus Institute. At Indus she learned about Australian Workplace Culture and Australian Workplace Communication, which gave her great insights about working in Australia.

Although Niharika graduated with a Master of Information Technology degree, she expressed her concern about not having much experience working in the IT industry.

Hence, she applied for the ACS Professional Year Program. This has brought much delight to her as she was able to gain relevant experience and exposure of the IT industry in Australia through the required internship.

As part of the ACS Professional Year Program, Niharika had the opportunity to do an internship related to the IT field and government. Through this internship, Niharika had the chance to meet with clients which she enjoyed very much. The managing director of her placement was also very supportive and Niharika said that he ‘got the best out of her’.

During her in-class trainings at Indus Institute, Niharika complimented her trainer, saying that he was very supportive and ensured all trainings were carried out smoothly.

Currently Niharika works at James Cook University as a Full Time Staff in Student

“This close and enduring relationship is enriched by cultural exchange, strong ties in education and business, and significant bilateral trade and investment,” the Premier said.

“Today, India is one of Queensland’s biggest export markets, with our exports to the country representing more than 61 per cent of Australia’s total exports to India.

“India is also now the second-largest source country for international students choosing to study in Queensland and our State boasts around 74,000 residents of Indian ancestry.”

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Grace Grace said the Indian community has a long established presence in Queensland and can be found in all areas of Queensland life including business, education, hospitality, sport and entertainment.

“The Indian community is a great example of how multiculturalism enriches this state and brings many benefits to all of us through a greater awareness and understanding of

“Events such as these are a great example of how we can celebrate the many diverse cultures in Queensland by coming together in a spirit of community,” Mrs Grace said.

“The smiles on the faces of all those here today are clear evidence of Queensland’s embrace of multiculturalism,” Ms Grace said.

GOPIO Queensland President Usha Chandra, said she was very pleased with attendance this year, especially by the presence of Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, her presence really added to the event.

Another exciting addition this year was Mumbai Born ABC TV Presenter Del Irani as the main MC for India Day Fair. Del handled the event very professionally and in a delightful manner. Del said she was very happy to have been a part of India Day Fair 2017.

The show stopper this year was Lakhwinder Wadali, Lakhwinder has a very large fan following, his performance attracted a huge crowd; everyone was eagerly waiting for his performance.

All the performances throughout the day were all of very high calibre and the stage was very well managed.

The India Day parade had a longer run this year; the parade began at the top end of the stalls and travelled the full length of path in from of the stalls before joining the VIPS at Sunset Glade.

The VIP reception in Sunset glade was another good idea, which worked well the decoration by Dream Style Decorators was amazing, even the gusty winds did not deter their efforts.

The sponsors got very good exposure via the big screen placed at the top end of the amphitheatre. The screen was originally planned to be on the stage, but with the high wind prediction and for safety reasons it was moved.

The recipient of GOPIO Queensland’s life-

Brian Sullivan Photography

Mrs Niharika Naini Indus Institute Graduate Support Section and is living the Australian Dream.

Niharika strongly encourages her friends to apply for the ACS Professional Year Program as through the program, IT industry knowledge in Australia is provided and students are able to get good references and experience through the different internships.

Niharika’s success story demonstrates that Australian workforce offers equal opportunity for young men and women who are willing to work hard and put in the efforts to gain appropriate job ready skills by completing job ready programs like the ACS Professional Year have a great future in Australia.

Author – Ranjita Pillai – The information represented above are views of the author and the author does not warrant any information. All individuals are encouraged to make their own enquiries before embarking on any program or career options.

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

other cultures,” she said.

“There could be no better location for a celebration of Indian culture and their independence day as well, as the fair is taking place alongside a statue of Mahatma Gandhi unveiled by the current Indian Prime Minister in 2014.

“This event is just one of many that are currently taking place throughout Queensland as we celebrate Queensland Multicultural Month.

“The Queensland Government contributed $6,000 towards this year’s and next year’s India Day Fair through the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland grants program.

time achievement was Professor Sarva Daman Singh (pictured above). A very worthy recipient, recognised for his contributions and service to Queensland Indian Community.

A variety of food stalls did roaring trade with customers lining up to be served. The venue has uneven surface which makes it very challenging. The stall holder’s benefit from the limited space available for stalls means less competition for them.

The grand finale fireworks were once again spectacular and well managed. The event was supported by many local performers and volunteers.

Brian Sullivan Photography

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 7

“Turning of the Sod’ for Vedanta Centre ON Wednesday 16th August the vision of the Vedanta Centre in Springfield came closer to reality with the turning of the sod.

The ceremony took place on the approximately 52 acres of land donated by Springfield Land Corporation to Vedanta Society of Sydney’s Brisbane Chapter, situated 96 Vedanta Drive Springfield Lakes.

The then acting Mayor of Ipswich Cr Paul Tully, Swami Sridharananda the President of the Vedanta Centre of Sydney, Chairperson of Springfield Land Corporation Dr Maha Sinnathamby and many other invited dignitaries attended the ceremony.

Resident Swami Atmeshananda, welcomed everyone to the ceremony and handed over the proceeding to MC Jim Varghese to conduct the program.

Swami Sridharananda’s address was par excellence and eloquent, such wisdom delivered in a honest and humble manner.

Vedanta Centre which will take approximately eighteen months to complete will be a multipurpose building that will house a monastery, meditation Hall and amenities.

The Centre will be a peaceful, harmonious place wherein meditation, yoga and scriptural study will be

the prominent activities. People of all beliefs and faith will be welcome without any distinction.

The Vedanta Centre is a spiritual organisation based on the philosophy of oneness and harmony.

Vedanta is one of the world’s most ancient spiritual philosophies and one of its broadest based on the Vedas, the sacred scriptures of India.

It is the philosophical foundation of Hinduism; but while Hinduism includes aspects of Indian Culture, Vedanta is Universal in its participation and is equally relevant to all countries, all cultures, and all religious backgrounds.

River hub designs unveiled to Western Sydney Airport to create boost tour and leisure access Jobs and Investment Boom

THE Brisbane River is poised to benefit from $18 million of on-water infrastructure, with the Lord Mayor releasing designs on 8 August for two docking hubs to provide tourist, private and commercial short-term moorings in the inner-city.

The hubs at New Farm Park and City Botanic Gardens are the first of ten city and suburban sites announced in the Lord Mayor’s 2017/18 Budget to build a river access network, and create new lifestyle and leisure opportunities on the river.

The Lord Mayor said his river plan was designed to enhance tourism and lifestyle options, by providing convenient locations to jump aboard Moreton Bay and island cruises, hop-on hop-off city-sights tours, water-taxis and leisure craft.

“New Farm Park and the City Botanic Gardens are two of the five inner-city docking sites that will be built, followed by West End and two river-front locations at South Bank,” Cr Quirk said.

“These will be complemented by five river lifestyle hubs in the suburban reaches of the Brisbane River, including at Dutton Park.

“Until now, a lack of mooring facilities has prevented river access at key riverfront entertainment, lifestyle and business precincts, and the city has been forgoing tourism opportunities that could support more jobs in Brisbane.”

Infrastructure Chairman Amanda Cooper said both New Farm Park and the City Botanic Gardens facilities would provide access to a variety of vessels, with designated spaces to ensure leisure and commercial vehicles could dock separately and safely.

“These large floating structures will consist

of a walkway, with several symmetrical fingers for vehicles to berth at, with a tee dedicated to large tour operators,” Cr Cooper said.

“Each structure will be flood-resilient and will support up to 15 vessels at any one time, ranging from paddle-boarding and kayaks, through to tinnies, powerboats and tour boats.”

Cr Cooper said Council would be holding information sessions for stakeholders, following significant interest from the tourism industry.

Briefing session: Monday 4 September, 9.00-11.00am - Brisbane Square, 266 George Street, Brisbane Council will now move to seek necessary approvals from Marine Safety Queensland and other State Government agencies to achieve the necessary support to proceed to construction.

For further information about the River Access Network, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Brisbane City Council on 3403 8888.

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

WESTERN Sydney Airport will generate tens of thousands of jobs - thousands more than previously estimated - according to new modelling from Ernst and Young.

By 2031 - five years after the airport is scheduled to open - Western Sydney Airport will have delivered an estimated 28,000 additional jobs both inside the airport and in surrounding areas. This number of new jobs in the region increases to 47,000 by 2041. Importantly, these new jobs are in addition to the 11,000 construction jobs during the period the airport is being built.

The first of these jobs will be on the ground within months. The announcement that Western Sydney Airport Corporation (WSA Co), the Government-owned company building the airport, will open its head office at Scott Street in Liverpool. Staff will be located there before the end of this year.

Every direct job building the airport will support another 2.5 jobs down the supply chain.

This includes jobs like delivering building materials to the site.

The airport will mean new jobs across indus-

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try sectors will be created. By 2031 the airport is expected to support around over 5,000 jobs in manufacturing, almost 3,000 jobs in transport and warehousing, 2,500 jobs in retail, and 1,650 jobs in accommodation services.

Research conducted recently by Liverpool Council earlier this year found strong support for Western Sydney Airport.

To maximise local benefits, WSA Co will also set ambitious employment targets for local workers, apprentices, trainees, Indigenous Australians and other key groups.

WSA Co will enter into billions of dollars of contracts. Through the tender process, bidders will be required to demonstrate how they will contribute to WSA’s employment targets.

Work is already underway through negotiations on the Western Sydney City Deal to build a strong and capable pipeline of local, skilled workers to meet jobs demand.

For more information on the airport visit www.westernsydneyairport.gov.au The Ernst and Young research can be viewed here - www.westernsydneyairport.gov.au/jobs

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 9

Brian Sullivan Photography

Flag raising ceremony launches celebrations

Brian Sullivan Photography

A BEAUTIFUL flag raising ceremony took place at Indian Consulate office situated at 175A Swan Road Taringa Bay on the morning of 15th August to officially mark India’s 70th Independence Day anniversary.

The Flag raising ceremony takes place every independence and republic day at 9am sharp.

Men and women elegantly clad in traditional Indian attire assembled on the morning for the occasion of India’s 70th Independence Day anniversary.

The short and solemn ceremony

was marked by the traditional flag rising, and attendees singing the national anthem.

For the occasion, Honorary Counsel for India in Queensland Mrs Arcahana Singh shared some words of solidarity with all those present, all the while highlighting the ever present and ever growing partnership between Australia and India.

Professor Sarva Danam Singh delivered his much awaited eloquent speech which is always a pleasure to listen to. The formalities of the morning concluded with refreshments for all.

Brian Sullivan Photography

East meets West in Loganlea ARTIST Madhu Khanna and supporting artist Deborah Daly showcased and art gallery at Able Art Gallery. The exhibition included

works of both the artists. Madhu Khanna who is renowned for her artistic talents displayed Indian works of art.

Honorary Counsel for India in Queensland Mrs Archana Singh spoke at the opening of the exhibition on 2nd September. Able Art Gallery is operated by Logan Artists Association a not for profit organisation and is situated at 27 Coral Street Loganlea.

Daisy Hill artist Madhu Khanna also explores Rangoli, the traditional Indian art form using brightly coloured sand, chalk or glitter to create beautiful decorative patterns and tea light cards.

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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N OW O P E N

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 11

Twenty years on....

Federation of Indian Associations of Queensland Inc. Strengthening the voice of Indian Communities in Queensland Dr Indrani Ganguly Public Relations Officer THE Federation of Indian Associations of Queensland Inc. (FICQ) is now moving into its twentieth year and would like to take this opportunity to thank both past and present Presidents and Executive Members of FICQ, its member organisations, patrons and friends continue to enable Queenslanders of Indian origin to espouse and follow the ideology of “thinking globally and acting locally”.

People of Indian origins have had a longstanding commitment to multiculturalism as evidenced in India’s history, traditions, constitution and political arrangements. These strengths have enabled FICQ which was formed in 1998 to successfully provide a key conduit for the Indian Communities to engage in and contribute to the multicultural political, economic, cultural, sporting and social fabric of Queensland.

The vision, hard work and dedication of FICQ Executive Committees, member organisations, patrons and volunteers have had rich dividends. Two decades after its inception, FICQ is recognised by all levels of government, the non-government sector and the private sector as the peak body in Queensland for all associations, organisations and societies representing people of Indian origin from countries around the world including India, Fiji, South Africa and Malaysia.

FICQ’s pre-eminence is demonstrated through its becoming the key point of contact for important networking opportunities with senior Ministers, elected representatives from local, state and federal governments and senior executives of key government departments, members of other community organisations and leaders from the private and non-government sectors. FICQ has

played a key role in encouraging all member and key individual and Indian organisations representatives to take part in the annual Premier’s reception in Queensland Parliament.

FICQ provides a platform to contribute to Government policy debates through supporting eligible individuals from member organisations to nominate for the Multicultural Queensland Advisory Council and take part in other significant discussions with all levels of government and non-government organisations.

It is also the facilitator for ongoing dialogue with the Indian Government through its representatives for the High Commission of India in Australia (HCI) in Canberra and the Honorary Consul in Brisbane. FICQ hosts regular well-attended meetings with visiting Indian dignitaries and senior civil servants to

discuss ways to strengthen ties between Indians resident in Australia and their country of origin.

Executive Committee members have had the opportunity to influence the broader national agenda through attending meetings of the Confederation of Indian Associations in Australia being held in major cities in Australia.

In the last decade, FICQ has enabled members to participate in important one-off events such as G20 and the forum for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at City Hall.

FICQ is also the organiser of important events in Brisbane. Member organisations can showcase their cultural heritage and talents of members to the wider Australian community through participation in annual FICQ organised events such as Diwali which is now recognised as a signature event: The support provided by the State and Local Governments, the attendance by dignitaries from

all levels of government and the business sector and the annual lighting of City Hall is testimony to the significance of Diwali to Brisbane’s cultural landscape.

FICQ also organises the Annual Joint Australia - India Day celebrations in various locations to commemorate the most unique joint celebration, Australia Day and Indian Republic Day on 26 January.

FICQ continues to support showcasing of Indo-Australian heritage through enabling member organisations to publicise their events through FICQ’s web-portal, email communications and social media pages. Executive Members also show their support in person through attending events organised by member organisations and other community organisations including the India Independence Day, Sudirman World Cup for Badminton, World Yoga Day, installation of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue, monument to honour Australians of Indian Heritage who fought in World War 1..

Economic benefits for member organisations include significant cost savings through FICQ’s group public liability insurance cover scheme. FICQ is also able to negotiate with wholesale suppliers and event management companies to supply goods and services for discounted rates for member organisations.

Members can also access FICQ’s Public Address system for their events and celebrations through a simple registration process and a nominal security deposit. If requested, FICQ can provide supporting or reference letters for member organisations for their grant applications or important initiatives and events.

Readers who are interested in how they can contribute to create a stronger foundation to Indian communities in Queensland through FICQ should contact Mr Palani Thevar, President, FICQ, on email president@ficq.org.au or Mobile: +61 421 656 000.

Fairer deal for small business secured FAIRER competition laws for small business passed the Parliament last night (15 August), levelling the playing field so small businesses can compete, Small Business Minister Michael McCormack says.

“The passage of section 46 is another Bill which backs small business and delivers on the Liberals and Nationals’ election promise,” Mr McCormack said.

“Protecting small business from anti-competitive conduct was a key recommendation of the Harper Review. The new section 46, delivered by the Government, empowers the consumer watchdog to look at the actual or likely impact of conduct on a market.

“It also further strengthens laws to prevent firms with substantial market power engaging in conduct which harms competition in Australian markets.”

Mr McCormack said a fairer playing field is a big issue raised by small businesspeople.

“From farmers to small supermarkets, from consumers to suppliers, many Australians tell me how these changes will stop firms with substantial market power from engaging in conduct which reduces competition,” Mr McCormack said.

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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“This is good news for small businesses which want to compete and good news for consumers who want competition in the market.”

Mr McCormack said while the Liberals, Nationals and crossbench worked together to back small business, Labor voted against a fairer deal for small business.

“I invited Labor to work with the Government in backing small business, to level the playing field, so more can compete,” Mr McCormack said.

“Instead, Labor continued with its feigned support seeking nothing more than a headline, showing yet again its complete lack of understanding and care for small business.”

The House of Representatives passed the amendment to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 late last night after discussion in the Senate.

“The Liberals and Nationals will always have the back of small business to grow local economies and create local jobs. Labor should stop playing politics and get on board to support small business,” Mr McCormack said.

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MEET OUR EAT SAFE STARS

Do you know someone who has made Brisbane an even better place?

Categories include: • Citizen of the Year • Senior Citizen of the Year • Young Citizen of the Year • Corporate Citizen of the Year • Community Event of the Year • Australia Day Cultural/Arts Award • Australia Day Sports Award • Australia Day Achievement Awards • Green Heart Award – Individual • Green Heart Award – Organisation.

CA17-750111-05-2854 © 2017 Brisbane City Council

Nominate them now for an award.

Goc Viet Inala are leading the way in food safety, with a prized four star Eat Safe rating. Brisbane City Council’s Eat Safe program provides incentives to food businesses that achieve a three star or higher rating including reduced annual fees, additional marketing resources and the ability to show customers that your restaurant adheres to the highest food safety standards.

For more information on Eat Safe visit brisbane.qld.gov.au and search ‘Eat Safe’ or phone 3403 8888.

L248586

For information on eligibility and how to nominate visit brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Brisbane City Council on 3403 8888.

Nominations close Monday 13 November 2017, 5pm.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 13

Fiji Seniors News

THE members of Fiji Senior Citizens Assn of Qld together with the communities of diverse cultural background including Aboriginal Uncle and Aunties celebrated Seniors Week and also Multicultural Month at our centre the Multicultural Hub at Annerley.

Over 90 people from diverse communities attended the event.

The celebration commenced with welcome to Country by Aunty Peggy Tidyman. Mark Bailey MP, Cr Ian McKenzie and Robin Zakhrov from MAQ spoke at the event. Also there was entertainment and performances by different community groups followed by lunch.

We Queenslanders can be proud of its rich multicultural heritage encompassing the tra-

dition of indigenous and diverse cultures who have come from many regions of the world.

Mr Surendra Prasad, President of FSCAQ said that celebrations such as this provides opportunities for diverse communities to express their thanks and gratitude the positive multicultural environment to grow in peace and harmony that Queensland has given us.

It also provide us an occasion to celebrate the richness that the diverse communities bring to our State.

We thank the support from Queensland Government, Lord Mayor’s Suburban Initiative Funds and Cr Ian McKenzie which made it possible for our Association to organise this celebration.

Surendra Prasad OAM

Cartoon Corner

By Merwyn

How much does it cost to send you child to school in Brisbane?

ACCORDING to research presented by the ASG Planning for Education Index, the forecast cost of a private education in Brisbane for a child born in 2017 is $372,000 , and for parents considering a systemic2 education for their children, the Queensland capital is forecast to be one of Australia’s most expensive cities to educate a child with Brisbane costing ($243,964) $4292 above the national metropolitan average ($239,672) and third only to Sydney ($250,862) and Adelaide ($246,786).

ASG CEO John Velegrinis says Australians are fortunate to have excellent government, systemic and private schools to choose from, but costs can spiral out of control.

“Our research predicts the cost of education will increase, irrespective of whether you send your child to a government, systemic or private school.

“If you have three children, the cost of educating them in Brisbane’s private education system could top $1.1 million. That’s significantly more than the purchase price of the average family home.

We advocate parents use a disciplined approach by putting a little bit away each week so they financially can afford to meet their children’s educational goals and aspirations.”

How can parents start saving for the cost of education?

There are many options available when it comes to saving for education. Selecting the right one can make a big difference in helping parents reach their goals, without plung-

ASG conducts the ASG Planning for Education Index annually, asking parents to estimate education costs, which cover preschool, primary and secondary schools in Australia. Cost estimates are based on 12,500 responses collected by ASG.

1 These figures are the average estimated costs and represent the highest amount parents and families could expect to pay 2 A systemic education includes religious schools e.g. Hindu, Catholic, Anglican, Uniting Church, Buddhist or Islamic

ECCQ opposes proposed citizenship changes 31 August 2017: The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) opposed changes in the Australian Citizenship Legislation Amendment Bill at a public hearing held by the Senate’s Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee in Brisbane earlier today.

In giving evidence before the Committee, CEO Garry Page said the changes will not strengthen the Australian citizenship process, but will rather deny many migrants and refugees the rights and responsibilities other Australians are entitled to.

“ECCQ strongly believes that policy should encourage inclusion rather than exclusion,” said Mr Page.

“Making the path to citizenship more difficult may result in denying residents the role of citizenship and by extension, their civic duty and right to take part in their government.

“Full integration in the community follows citizenship rather than precedes it,” said Mr Page.

Among ECCQ’s key concerns include the proposed language requirements which would see a shift from a basic level of English to competent English language skills and the lengthening of the permanent residency

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

ing further into debt.

Taking a proactive approach to saving for education, may lead you to considering an education savings plan.

Education savings plans offer a purposebuilt fund dedicated to saving for education, allowing regular or ad-hoc contributions, and have been granted specific beneficial tax treatment under Australian taxation law.

As Australia’s largest provider of education savings plans, ASG is recognised as the specialists in education funds. ASG’s versatile funds are suitable for everyone from the disciplined saver to those requiring a more structured approach to planning ahead.

ASG education funds can be used to save towards a variety of education goals, such as basic education costs, private schooling and post-secondary education.

With more than 40 years’ experience, ASG has supported over 540,000 children and returned more than $2.8 billion payments to members and their families.

To discover more about the cost of education in Queensland, and ASG education funds visit saving.asg.com.au or contact ASG on 131 ASG (131 274). To book an appointment directly with an ASG Education Planning Consultant call Chris Chelliah directly on 0439 035 305.

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requirement.

“Many individuals living in Australia on temporary visas will no longer be able to count the years spent living here towards the resident requirement for citizenship.

“This includes many humanitarian entrants who cannot return to their home country, and may have experienced trauma and persecution,” said Mr Page.

“It is difficult to understand how prolonging the process of citizenship and therefore, denying these individuals the rights that others exercise in Australia, would encourage their commitment to Australia.”

The Committee heard from a number of organisations from the community sector in Queensland, all of which opposed various aspects of the legislation. These organisations included the Refugee and Immigration Legal Service Inc., Queensland Council for Civil Liberties and Access Community Services.

ECCQ Ltd has been established for 40 years as the peak body in Queensland for ethnic communities and multiculturalism. ECCQ, and its wholly-owned divisions, encourage and support multiculturalism through community engagement, education and training, health promotion and culturally appropriate aged care service provision.

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11:30:43 AM

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 15

Janmashtami celebrations in Brisbane

Upset Hindus seek ban on Meat & Livestock Australia ad showing Lord Ganesha at lamb BBQ UPSET Hindus are urging Australia Advertising Standards Bureau to ban the new “You Never Lamb Alone” video ad launched on September four by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), which seems to make fun of Lord Ganesha.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) 4 September, pointed out that Lord Ganesha was highly revered in Hinduism and he was meant to be worshipped in temples or home shrines and not to be used in selling lamb meat for mercantile greed. Moreover, linking Lord Ganesha with meat was very disrespectful and highly inappropriate, Zed added.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, also urged MLA Board Chair Dr. Michele Allan and Managing Director Richard Norton to issue an official apology besides withdrawing the ad immediately.

MLA should be mature enough to understand that “love united us and brought us together and not lamb meat”, Zed indicated.

Rajan Zed stated that inappropriate usage of Hindu deities or concepts or symbols for

commercial or other agenda was not okay as it hurt the devotees.

Hinduism was the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about 1.1 billion adherents and a rich philosophical thought and it should not be taken frivolously. Symbols of any faith, larger or smaller, should not be mishandled, Zed noted.

Rajan Zed further said that such trivialization of a Hindu deity was disturbing to the Hindus world over. Hindus were for free artistic expression and speech as much as anybody else if not more. But faith was something sacred and attempts at trivializing it hurt the followers, Zed added.

In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as god of wisdom and remover of obstacles and is invoked before the beginning of any major undertaking.

MLA, with about 50,000 livestock producer members and headquartered in North Sydney, “delivers research, development and marketing services to Australia's cattle, sheep and goat producers”.

JANMASHTAMI commemorates the earthly appearance of Krishna, who is described in India’s sacred writings as God Himself. One of the biggest religious festivals in the world, it is celebrated by nine hundred and thirty million people around the world and two million in the US alone. To devotees, its Christmas and New Year’s in one, a day of deep spiritual renewal and celebration that effectively finishes an old year and begins a fresh one.

But why Janmashtami, you may ask? What’s so special about Krishna, as opposed to any other form of God? It’s His personable-ness.

He reciprocates in unique, personal ways with every devotee who offers Him love— He is the most adorable, mischievous son, the most romantic lover, the most compassionate friend.

And on Janmashtami, devotees celebrate Krishna in all of these aspects. For just as Krishna reciprocates individually with His

relatives and confidantes, he responds to the distinct feelings and desires held most deeply in the heart of every single worshipper.

So remember that whatever way you worship Krishna on Janmashtami, He will reciprocate with you accordingly. It’s a meditation that makes for an extremely rewarding devotional experience.

In Brisbane Janmashtami was celebrated at all Hindu Temples. Sanatan Queensland celebrated Janmashtami at their newly acquired land at 550 Wembley Rd, Logan. Hindu Society of Queensland celebrated Janmashtami at Gayatri Mandir Boondall. The officiating priest was Acharya Dinesh Shandil of New Zealand.

Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple, Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir, ISKCON Brisbane, Sanatan Queensland and all other centres celebrated Janmashtami. Most of the centres reported good turnout of devotes to celebrate this festival.

Brian Sullivan Photography

Bawarchi opens at Augustine Heights ON Friday 11th August a new Indian Restaurant “Bwarchi” opened in Augusta Village, Augustine Heights.

The then Acting Mayor of Ipswich, Paul Tully did the honours of officially declaring the restaurant open.

MC for the formal proceedings, Jim Varghese congratulated owner Manish Patel on his expansion in this area. He also spoke on the upcoming Power of Peace festival that

will be held on 29 October (refer to page 21).

Hemant Naik of Mahatma Gandhi memorial committee also congratulated owner Manish Patel, and he disclosed the fact that Manish Patel was chosen as the personal chef for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during if visit to Brisbane.

The official opening dinner had a good representation of Indian Community leaders and organisations, including,

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

FICQ, GOPIO, Vedanta Society, Queensland Multicultural Council, AIBC and Mahatma Gandhi Memorial committee amongst many.

Traditional Indian dishes were served on the occasion of the official opening; funds raised on the night went to Mahatma Gandhi memorial committee for repairs to Gandhi statue at Roma Street Parkland.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 17

• Attendees at the Sod-turning function, RSL Sunnybank Sub-branch.

Gala Dinner and Sod-turning for the Australians of Indian Heritage War Memorial THE Australians of Indian Heritage War Memorial (AIHWM) Committee organised two functions recently in preparation to the unveiling of the Monument on 18 November 2017.

• Gala Dinner on 5 August night at Coorparoo Secondary College, Coorparoo • Sod-turning function on 12 August at 9 am at RSL Sub-branch, Sunnybank The democratic way of life that we enjoy today has been preserved and made strong as a result of World Wars (WW) I and II, which were fought against militarist autocracy.

Indian soldiers were part of a part of Britain and the coalition of forces committed to democracy. Indian soldiers were the largest single contingent of all Britain’s colonies and dominions. About 1.3 million Indian soldiers fought and 74,000 lost their lives In the WWI. At Gallipoli 15,000 Indians fought and 1,500 lost their lives. In the WWII 2.5 million Indians fought and 87,000 lost their lives, yet their contribution has been mostly unrecognised.

Most importantly, several soldiers of Indian Heritage actually represented Australia (in additions those millions who represented Britain) in the Wars, whose contribution also went unrecognised.

The Australians of Indian Heritage War Memorial (AIHW) Committee aims to change this situation by erecting a Monument to honour and recognise Indians who sacrificed in the Wars. The following are the activities of the Committee to date.

• Obtained financial commitment of $30,000 from the Federal LNP government • Raised $15,000 through the first fundraising dinner on 28 May 2016 • Created a bursary for students of Indian diaspora. Symbol Sidhu of St Thomas More College, Sunnybank was the first recipient of $1,000 in October 2016 • In November 2016 the monument design of Ms Bianca Archer was selected (pictured

below) from 11 final entries from the Griffith University Architectural students.

The Monument will be unveiled in the Memorial Garden of Sunnybank RSL Subbranch on 18 November 2017.

In preparation to the erecting the Monument, a Gala Dinner was organised on 5 August 2017 to showcase this unique project of building a Monument for the Australians of Indian heritage soldiers who fought for Australia in the Wars I and II. About 250 people of Indian Diaspora and supporters of this project attended the dinner.

Dr Naidu Bodapati was the Master of Ceremonies and the function started with the National Anthems of both Australia and India.

Mr. Surendra Prasad OAM, Chairperson of AIHWM and Mr Hugh Polson, President of RSL Sub-branch Sunnybank spoke about the project and the design for the Monument.

A partial list of the dignitaries include Mr Ross Vasta MP, Federal Member for Bonner, representing Federal Government; Mr Duncan Pegg MP, representing Hon Grace Grace, Minister for Multicultural Affairs; Graham Perrett MP, Federal member for Morton; Mr Anthony Shorten representing Cr Kim Marx Councillor for Runcorn and Lord Mayor of

Brisbane; RSL Sub-branch Sunnybank Executives and members, the Executive Committee of FICQ including the President Palani Thevar, and the Australians of Chinese Heritage War Memorial Committee. Several patriotic cultural programs were also a part of the dinner function.

One of the highlights was the presentation on the involvement of Indian army at Gallipoli by Col Jo Matthews, who retired from Indian defence Force.

• Sod-turning by Mr. Hugh Polson of RSL, Mrs Archana Singh, Hon Consul of India, and Mr Surendra Prasad OAM, Chairperson of AIHWM.

• Col Jo Matthew delivering a presentation on Indian Army in Gallipoli.

The AIHWM Committee thanks the sponsors of the Gala Dinner Dr. Maha Sinnathamby of Springfield Land Corporation and Mr Ram Karri of Neibourhood Tax Agents and Accountants, and several donors for the raffle prize items.

On 12 August 2017 the Sod-turning ceremony or Bhoomi Pooja for the construction of the Monument commenced at 9 am at RSL Sub-branch, Sunnybank. After the Australian Anthem, leaders of multifaith: Christian, Hindu, Sikh and Muslim conducted prayers.

Mr Surendra Prasad, Chairperson of

AIHWM and Mr Hugh Polson, President of RSL Sub-branch Sunnybank, and Mrs Archana Singh, Honorary Consul of India spoke of the importance of the Monument in recognition of the fallen Australian Soldiers of Indian Heritage. Sod-turning was performed by Mr Prasad, Mr Polson, and Mrs Singh. The members of AIHWM Committee were in attendance along with Mr Duncan Pegg MP, Cr. Kym Marx, Mr Anthony Shorten, and a representative of Queensland Police.

The AIHWM Committee extends invitation to attend the unveiling of the Memorial in the Memorial Garden of Sunnybank RSL Sub-branch on 18 November 2017.

Written by Dr. Naidu Bodapati, Public Relations Officer and Secretary, AIHWM Committee.

Fund raising Dinner for Orissa State

By Peter Lane Rai IN 2015 I was teaching on family relationships at a Christian youth residential center in Hyderabad and heard the life stories of many of the young people. Vanita (not real name), 22 years old from Orissa State had a particularly sad story, during some communal unrest in 2012 both her parents were murdered in front of her.

It is a huge challenge for a young girl, anywhere in the world to survive, after being suddenly orphaned. Yet she did largely because the Christian community not only provided a family to live with but also an education which in18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

volved sending her to Hyderabad for several months.

This is why I am especially interested in the Indian Evangelical Mission fundraising dinner for Orissa State that will be held 5.30pm on Saturday 16th September 2017 at Gateway Baptist Church Function Room 1052 Mt Gravatt Capalaba Road, Mackenzie.

IEM, founded in 1965, is based in Bangalore and currently has mission fields in 37 places in India and in six other countries.

Some funds raised will be for the urgent need to replace the 100 year old Orissa hostel. Friends of IEM, around Australia, are also raising funds for this needy and worthy www.indiantimes.com.au

cause.

IEM has a large work in India with 23 hostels supporting and caring for hundreds of tribal orphans and needy children.

Also there is a “women’s empowerment programme” training women at Sewing Schools with the hope that one day they can have a source of income.

The guest speaker is Rev Dr Raja Singh, the General Secretary of IEM, so come along, enjoy some beautiful curries and hear inspiring stories like Vanitas.

The cost? by donation! Enquiries Vincent: 0424 396 096 Call 07 3865 6533

Brisbane Open House 2017: Your key, your city 7 & 8 October 2017 HE 2017 BOH programme launched on 24 August with more than 90 venues opening to the public during the October weekend.

In its eighth year, Brisbane Open House is set to continue its tradition of embracing ‘All That is Built Brisbane’, opening doors of iconic public and private buildings for the architecture enthusiast, heritage passionate or simply the curious visitor.

Visitors can unlock award-winning architectural gems, undertake a pilgrimage of heritage sites and spaces, or select from several precincts in which to marvel built offerings.

Brisbane city: unlocked and completely bespoke.

The free community event provides a diverse program spread over two days, encouraging visitors to ‘design’ their own tour of Brisbane’s most intriguing architecture.

Queensland Government Architect Malcolm Middleton OAM said with more than 68,000 visits last year, 2017 Brisbane Open House will continue to inspire, opening 90+ of the most-loved and most undiscovered buildings with new experiences, tours and activities in this year’s program.

“This year new comers to the building list include St Joseph’s Nudgee College, Forgan Smith Building at UQ’s School of Law, the Anna Meares Velodrome, Queensland Ballet and Trade Coast Central Heritage Park to name a few,” Mr Middleton said.

“Returning are much loved buildings including Fort Lytton Historic Military Precinct, Port of Brisbane, Brisbane City Hall, Old Bishopsbourne, Queensland Herbarium, Masonic Memorial Centre and the Queensland

State Archives, plus many more!”

Brisbane Open House is proud to also present a full programme of events including guided walking tours, free concerts and meetthe-maker Made in Brisbane workshops.

Brisbanites are also invited to join architects, designers, planners and professionals in conversation at the Speakers Series - exploring what influences the shape, experiences and growth of our city and its buildings.

Brisbane Open House event manager Angie Scott said Brisbane Open House helped to deepen people’s understanding of Brisbane by encouraging them to explore, examine and engage with the city’s unique built environment.

“The number of buildings involved in Brisbane Open House has quadrupled since its inception in 2010, but more importantly the public support and engagement of this event has also grown hugely,” Ms Scott said.

For more information visit www.brisbaneopenhouse.com.au

• Darren Lockyer (Brisbane Open House Ambassador), Malcolm Middleton OAM (Queensland Government Architect) and His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland, launching this year’s programme.

Hindu Society of Qld Inc (Gayatri Mandir) News…

By Prem Chand Public Relations Officer 2017/2018 MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE The following Management Committee were elected at the annual general meeting held on 16 July 2017: * President: Mr Daven Pathik * Vice President: Mr Prem Chand * Vice President: Mr Hemant Kumar * Secretary: Mr David Puran * Treasurer: Mr Dharmesh Prasad * Assistant Secretary: Mr Rakesh Singh * Assistant Treasurer: Mr Rahul Kumar * Committee Members: Mrs Anita Ram, Mr Samaru Dass, Mr Sandip Chand, Mr Ramesh Chandra, Mr Amitesh Kumar * Honorary Auditor: Mr Vinod Chaudhary From the President down to the Assistant Treasurer were elected unopposed. But unfortunately there were 11 applications for 5 committee member positions. After a proposal by Mr Prem Chand to include 11 by forming sub-committees of the extra 6 nominations. These included: * Mandir Coordinator: Anita Singh; * Building and Compound Coordinator: Jayant Dutta; * Women Wing Coordinators: Anita Sharma and Shirley Singh; and * Men Wing Coordinators: Rajesh Sharma and Arvind Sharma The above proposal was rejected and an election was held that ended with the above 5 committee members elected. There are seven new faces in the new management committee.

2017 SHREE KRISHNA JANAM ASHTAMI This celebration was conducted by Archarya Dinesh Shandil of Auckland, New Zealand.

The 8 days of Katha was well attended by members, devotees and their families. It was a great success. The Committee would like to thank all the food donors, yugman, Ramayan Mandalis, and other individuals who helped in cooking and in any other ways.

If you wish to donate food or perform pooja for Navraatri, please contact us soon for bookings as space is filling fast.

Coming Events: * 21-29 September 2017 for Navraatri. Daily starts from 6:30pm; * Saturday 30 September 2017: Dusshera from 2pm; and * Sunday 1 October 2017: 108 Maha Chandini Yagna from 9am.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 19

Chinmaya Mission Adult Retreat 2017 – Gems of the Geeta IF the Bhagavad Geeta is a guide to daily living how do we apply its lessons in our everyday life? And what prevents us from applying these lessons? It is not just sufficient to have the knowledge. It is important for us to let the knowledge be absorbed into us so that our actions are automatically guided by this knowledge. This Adult Retreat under the guidance of our beloved Swami Shrikarananda was yet another opportunity to gain knowledge and absorb it for practical application into our daily life.

From the start Swamiji had us examining what we thought we knew. His first question for us to discuss, firstly in groups and then together was: What is Spirituality? Why should I become spiritual? What are the benefits of being spiritual? Is it 24/7?

Although we used different words to describe it, the essence was that Spirituality was a path towards a greater purpose, a way to uncover our true nature. It is a practical framework for us to master our senses. Without Spirituality, you will not uncover your true nature nor exhaust your vasanas in this life. It is often spoken of as something different to Religion, but Swamiji explained how Religion was important in developing Spirituality and that all religions teach the same basic truth. There are different paths to the same end. And of course, it would make little sense to be Spiritual on a part time basis. However, it does not mean that you cannot live a life within the world of objects or experiences. It means that our responses to these objects and experiences are guided by understanding, balance and equanimity.

In the words of Gurudev, “Spirituality does not lie in doing something different but in doing everything in a special way. It is more of a vision than an action”.

Swamiji then asked us ‘What are habits?’.

Of course, it is hard not to think of habits in the negative – bad habits. But habits can also be good and good habits are a useful aid for replacing bad habits. Habits were described as repetitive, regular, and hard to give up. To overcome habits, you need to know why you are doing what you are doing. Sometimes we

are not even aware of our habits. Introspection is important in identifying and understanding our habits. In overcoming habits, it is necessary to substitute them with something higher. You cannot replace it with something equal to or lower. Again, Spirituality helps us to develop enquiry which helps us to identify and overcome habits that distract us from our path. All habits though are an attachment and in the end even good habits need to be given up.

Our attention was then drawn to the question of Duty. What is Duty? Chapter 2 Verse 31 in the Geeta helps us to understand duty. It is action in accordance with our true inner constitution. Arjuna not only belongs to the group of Kshatriyas because of birth but also by his nature. We all have different natures, some contemplative, some energetic, some caring, and therefore different duties. It is important for us to approach our duties with gratitude, we have been chosen to do this ac-

Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Assn.

(GCHCA) News....

Navarathri Festival Evening Saturday, 23 September 2017

THE annual general meeting of Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) was held on 20th August 2017 in Helensvale Community Centre in Gold Coast. Many founder and life members as well as other community supporters attended the event with enthusiasm. A/Prof Gulasekaran Rajaguru, Returning Officer chaired the election process for the vacant positions for the Committee. Following Committee was formed to run the Association for the next one year.

• President: Ms. Sothi Kanagasabai • Vice President: Dr. Shunil D. Sharma • Secretary: Prof Thiru Aravinthan • Joint Secretary: Mr. S. Barata Raj • Treasurer: Mr. Rathinam Srinivasan • Assistant Treasurer: Mr. Raj Haikerwal • Director of Cultural Activities: Mr. Murali Kumar Srinivasan • Director of Religious Activities: Mrs. Anandagowri Muthukkumarasamy • Director of Educational Activities: Mr. I Siva • Director of Resources, Media, Publicity and Asset Management: Dr. N. Mugunthan • Director of Youth and Community Activities, Fund Raising Activities, and Event Management: Mr. Kartik Menon The GCHCA’s Navarathri Festival falls on Saturday, 23rd September 2017. This is the fifth Navarathri celebration GCHCA has hosted since its inception in 2012.

To sponsor, please contact ghcan@gmail.com.

Navarathri has been celebrated in India and other Hindu Countries since ancient times and the last day of celebration is referred to by different names in regional India such as Dasara, Vijayadashami etc.

In Gujarat, Navarathri festival celebrates the worship of Goddess Jagdamba, while in West Bengal, Durga Puja is the reason to rejoice.

Though, every region in India celebrates this festival in its own way, mainly it is a celebra-

tion of female power “Shakthi”. Hinduism acknowledges God as part female, and the Goddess, called Shakthi, is the emanating power, the essence and the creative manifestation of the Supreme Being, who is beyond opposites.

This yearly festival is celebrated for nine or ten days in the lunar month of Ashvina (September-October). Navarathri Festival denotes nine nights and three nights each is devoted to the celebration of the Goddesses of Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi.

Durga (meaning “invincible” in Sanskrit) is the epitome of strength, courage and ferocity.

Lakshmi is the Goddess of abundance, wealth and comfort. She is the ever-giving mother, worshipped for well being and prosperity. On the full-moon night following Navarathri, it is believed Lakshmi Herself visits each home and replenishes family wealth.

The last three days of Navarathri exalt Saraswathi, the form of Shakthi personifying wisdom, arts and beauty. Her name literally means “flowing one,” a reference to thoughts, words, music. Mystically, Saraswathi is believed to be the keeper of the powerful Gayatri Mantra: Om Bhuur-Bhuvah Svah Tat-Savitur-Varennyam | Bhargo Devasya Dhiimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Pracodayaat || This is chanted during the festival to invoke Her supreme blessings. Devotees meditate for days on this mantra alone, as it is considered the door to divine wisdom.

The tenth day of the festival is called Dasera, and marks the triumph of good over evil, and also the motherhood of God. This celebration exemplifies the Hindu tradition of honouring different aspects of life and culture and providing opportunities for showcasing arts and culture through the nine nights.

Traditionally many ceremonies will happen

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

tion. To quote Rabindranath Tagore: “I slept and dreamed that life was joy, I awoke and saw that life was duty, I acted, and behold: Duty was joy.”

In discussing duty, we also questioned what is work?. Intelligent action is work. Love made visible is work. Whatever work we do can be a yajna sacrifice, a sacrifice of the ego.

In all actions, you give to your capacity, the best that you can do at that time. And work should be done in a cooperative spirit. We must look at how we can develop ourselves to contribute positively to the world. Transform ourselves to transform the world.

We were given an opportunity to explore this in a practical sense through teamwork. In carrying out the tasks it became evident how important habit, knowledge, listening, reflection, and cooperation were in producing an outcome.

Lastly, Swamiji asked what is Sin? Chapter 2, Verse 33 explains that Sin is to act against during Navarathri: Ayudha puja- the blessing of the tools of one’s trade. At dawn on the ninth day (usually) of Navarathri, selected tools, instruments, utensils and devices used by a worker or artist are ceremoniously placed at the feet of the Goddess and quietly worshiped with prayers and flowers.

Vidyarambha - Beginning of learning, marks the start of a child’s formal education for children ages three to five. It is literally, the “beginning of knowledge”. The worship begins with an elder or priest taking the child’s index finger and writing “Om”’ or the first alphabet in sand or uncooked rice. It is a widely held belief, especially in South India, that a proper blessing on this day will ensure lifelong success in a child’s study and career.

Parents, therefore, make sure that the Goddess’ goodwill is properly invoked.

This year Navarathri festival falls from Thursday 21st September to Saturday 30th September 2017.

GCHCA’s Navarathri Cultural Celebration will include evening of performances by various prominent South Asian artists in South East Queensland, followed by a vegetarian dinner.

Event: GCHCA Navarathri Cultural Celebration Date: 23 September 2017 (Saturday) Time: 5:45pm for 6pm start (2 hour cultural program).

Venue: Nerang Bicentennial Community Centre (833 Southport-Nerang Road, Nerang) Gold Coast.

Please reserve a ticket using the link below from Eventbrite.com.au: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/thegold-coast-hindu-cultural-associationnavaratri-festival-2017-tickets37151465032. As seats are limited we advise you to book early.

GCHCA aims to impart and celebrate the Hindu culture within our community, and especially convey to the modern Hindu youth the traditional values of harmony and peaceful co-existence. Therefore, our energy is totally focused now in achieving our goals to progress the build of the Hindu Education and Cultural Precinct at Arundel, Gold Coast for use by communities in the Gold Coast, Northern New South Wales and Queensland.

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your own true nature. If Arjuna did not fight he would not only renounce his own swadharma but incur positive sin by not fulfilling his noble duty. We are born into this life so that we can exhaust our vasanas. We cannot exhaust these vasanas by acting against our nature. Therefore, it is our duty to use this life to remove the obstacles that prevent us from knowing our true nature. To waste this God-given opportunity is a sin.

Spirituality + Good Habits + Duty helps one to uncover their true nature and therefore negate Sin. Denise Weatherhog Please visit http://www.chinmaya.com.au/brisbane/ for the details of our classes and Sunday Family Program.Upcoming event: Annual Family Weekend Retreat 15th to 17th September 2017.

Contact: Sangeetha 0401 074 738 This will provide opportunities for the community to come together and participate in cultural and religious activities to reconnect with ancient traditional Hindu values. We propose to offer the wider community a precinct that would facilitate learning and practicing of the Hindu way of life that is peaceful and harmonious, enriched with various lifestyle programs such as meditation techniques, mantra recitation, philosophy and yoga.

The land has been cleared of trees and is ready to have the Hindu Education and Cultural Precinct build and the committee is attending to the building approval with Council before building work can be initiated.

We are also in a fund raising drive to fund the Gold Coast Hindu Education and Cultural Precinct build. All monetary contributions of $2 or more to the GCHCA Building Fund is eligible for a tax deduction. The association has raised $700,000 and donations continue to be bestowed by God’s grace. GCHCA needs your continual support to achieve its noble objectives of building the first phase of the project at a cost of around $1.5 million.

We also want to provide cultural activities for our members. We humbly appeal for you to become members and support us, as your contribution will make a difference and help the community realise its dream. Please contact us via email below if you would like to sponsor or assist.

We invoke God’s blessing to all that donate and contribute funds and undertake voluntary work. For more information about this project, please visit the GCHCA website on www.GoldCoastHindu.org. You are also more than welcome to contact the association’s President, Secretary or Treasurer if you have any further queries and their details are in the website.

All tax-deductible donations ($2 or more) can be deposited into the following: Commonwealth Bank Account: The GCHCA Building Donation Account BSB: 064-474 Account Number: 104 88 900 Web site: www.GoldCoastHindu.org.

Email: gchcan@gmail.com Lokah Samastha Sukino Bhavanthu (May all beings everywhere be happy and free and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to the happiness and freedom of all).

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Gandh Gand Gan Gandhi Sal Salt Sa M Mar Limited Marc March Li Lim Limi L (an Australian Austral Australi Regi Registered Charity)) SUHVH Charity Chari Cha SUHVHQWV« SUHVHQWV« SUHVHQ Ga

Power ow of Peace Pea Festival Festiv Fe Ipswich Ipswic & Brisbane Ipsw Brisba Brisb Sund 29 Sunday 2 October O Octo 2017

The Power of Peace Festival is a community event inspired by Mahatma Gandhi to promote the Gandhi ideals of non-violence, sustainability and inclusiveness.

Fo m For mor information, more in infor inform informat informati informatio i visi visit vvi us u at: www.powerofpeacefestival.org Li us on Facebook: Like Facebo F Faceb www.facebook.com/powerofpeacefestival Want to be actively Want acti activel act inv invo invol involved i in i this thi th festival? fest festi festiva festival fe Contac Contact Con C us u at info@powerofpeacefestival.org Join us for this inspirational festival on Sunday, 29 October 2017 , as we re-enact the Dandi Salt March, commencing at the Mahatma Gandhi Inspiration Bridge at Springfield, Ipswich and concluding at the Mahatma Gandhi Statue at Roma Street Parklands, Brisbane.

On this day, dedicate your day, your beliefs, and your values (secular and non-secular) to celebrate the diversity of our community, and harness our shared values as we support, raise awareness for and recognise all in our community.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 21

Hindu Cultural Hub at Clayfield....

Why shouldn’t we see the moon on Ganesha Chaturthi Day? ther's sudden demise and Shatadhanva's involvement. Krishna chases Shatadhanva along with his brother Balarama and kills Shatadhanva, but could not find the Syamantaka. Hearing this, even Balarama becomes cross with Krishna and leaves for Vidarbha territory.

This makes Krishna very morose, who hangs his head down in shame and anguish – even though he knew everything being the Lord of the cosmos. Then sage Narada appears and advises him to perform Ganesha Chaturthi pooja, to clear the confusion and the effect of the curse. Krishna does so, and be relieved when all will be set back to as it was. Detailed stories of Syamantaka can be found in the Skanda & the Bhaagavata puraanas, written by VedaVyasa.

Courtesy Dr Naren Kumar THE story of Syamantaka jewel is elaborated in both the Bhaagavatha and the Skanda puraanas. Each year Ganesha Chaturthi pooja is celebrated on the 4th day of the rising moon cycle (shukla paksha) of the Bhaadrapada month of the Hindu calendar. Most importantly, one must not see the moon that night. This is because of Lord Ganesha's curse to the moon stating that – whoever sees the moon on that day would be blamed for bad deeds that they did not perform (apavaada). As a remedy, people should hear the story of Syamantaka, which clears the curse's effect. Even Lord Sri Krishna was affected by it. Ganesha, being hefty, was riding a comparatively tiny mouse – the moon ridiculed on seeing him. Hence he was cursed.

The Syamantaka story-gist: King Ugrasena of Dwaraka (Yadava King and Sri Krishna's grandfather), had two sons Satrajita and Prasena. Satrajita was a staunch devotee of Surya, the Sun Deity. He performed a tough penance by looking at the Sun without batting the eyelids and without food for 12 years. The Sun was pleased and presented him His own resplendent necklace with the Syamantaka jewel in it. He told him that the wearer of that jewel must be clean (shuchi) at all times and it must be worshipped daily with strict austerities, otherwise the person responsible would be destroyed. If managed well, the jewel would yield 8 weight measures of gold each day. There would not be famines or calamities of any kind, where it is located.

After he returned to Dwaraka, everyone envied Satrajita. Fearing that Sri Krishna might ask the jewel, he gave it to his brother Prasena. One day, accompanied by Krishna and the others, Prasena wore the jewel around his neck and went hunting in the forest on horseback. As he mounted an animal, he had disrespected the jewel. Sure enough, a lion pounced and killed him, took the jewel away. But soon, the king of bears – Jaambavan (the bear devotee of Sri Rama in the Ramayana), killed the lion and took the jewel to

Stay Connected: The Hindu Cultural Hub at Clayfield is a centre to congregate and promote spiritual, cultural and educational needs of local community and wider Hindu society in Brisbane. Devotees and friends assemble at the Bar-Jai Community Hall (178, Alexandra Road, Clayfield) last Friday of each month between 6.30pm to 9pm. his den.

Unable to find him, Krishna returned to the capital. Meanwhile people bespoke ill of Krishna blaming Him to be the murderer of Prasena for the sake of the jewel. To clear His name, Krishna investigated with a team in the forest and traced the footsteps of the lion and the bear to the den. He left his team to wait at the door and went deep into the cave and found a beautiful palace, in which the jewel was hung on a baby's cradle, with a young beautiful girl Jaambavati (adopted daughter of Jaambavan), singing a ballad – "The lion killed Prasena, but the great Jaambavan killed the lion and has delivered this jewel to you O sweet child! Please don't cry this jewel is now yours!" She was dumb-struck when she saw Krishna and offered Him the jewel and begged Him to leave before Jaambavan wakes from his slumber. Instead Krishna

blew His conch loudly, waking Jaambavan and the two fought fiercely for 21 days. Losing strength, Jaambavan realised that Krishna could not be any other than the Lord Himself.

Then Krishna appears as Sri Rama, to whom Jaambavan surrenders with tears of love and offers his daughter in marriage to Krishna along with the Syamantaka.

Returning home, Krishna clears His name by narrating the whole story, after returning the jewel to its rightful owner – Satrajita.

Ashamed, Satrajita gives his daughter Satyabhaama in marriage to Krishna still filled with envy, Shatadhanva (another Yadava), murders Satrajita with Akroora was his accomplice and flees with the jewel.

Fearing Krishna might come after him, Shatadhanva gives the jewel to Akroora, who takes refuge incognito in the city of Kashi.

Satyabhaama informs Krishna about her fa-

Our next cultural congregation falls on 29th of September 2017.

As a standard practice, we have the following program at the Bar-Jai Hall: • Pooja by Hindu Priest • Bajan and Kirtan by devotees • Monthly religious updates / guest speakers on spiritual (or) on yoga techniques • Prasatham with vegetarian dinner served • Session conclude with relevant social justice updates and public notices.

We are currently interested in building our networks and relations with different communities around local and Brisbane area.

If you are interested to get involved, please contact us on 0469 016 416 or 0427 999 129 or alternatively contact Sathiya: sathiya.ramakrishnan@gmail.com.

More details can be found at our web site: http://www.hinduculturalhub.org/

Hema Malini ushers in the true spirit of JANMASHTAMI with bhajan album launch at ISKCON! HEMA Malini ushered in Janmashtami with the launch of her bhajan album ‘GOPALA KO SAMARPAN’ in the hallowed precincts of ISKCON in Juhu, Mumbai, on August 13, 2017. It also marks the coming together of Indian classical legends like Pandit Hari Prasad Chauasia, Kavi Narayan Agrawal, Rajan Sajan Mishra & Pandit Shivkumar Sharma specifically for the actress –parliamentarian Hema Malini.

Kavi Narayan Agrawal, Pandit Hariprasad Churasia, Suresh Wadkar, Shankar Mahadevan, Soordasji, Bhushanji, Actress Madhu, composer Anu Malik, were present on the dais to release the devotional album, in praise for Lord Krishna.

Soon to be parents Esha Deol & Bharat Takhtani too came in support for the debut launch, as all the dignitaries were in awe of Hema Malini as she sang a bhajan from the album live in front of all Lord Krishna devotees. They complimented her for the devotional sentiments attached and her pitch perfect performance in front of a live audience. Even her Sanskrit shlokas came in for high praise for the clarity and diction.

Says Hema Malini “”The entire credit goes to Narayan Agar22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

wal, a Krishna bhakt, who is known for bringing out the best of Jagjit Singh and Anup Jalota bhajans. When Narayanji asked me to sing 8 tracks for this album I was hesitant to sing as I am not a professional singer, and didn’t want to do anything in a half-hearted manner. But he insisted that I should listen to all the compositions first, before taking the final call” After hearing all the compositions she realized the importance of the album. She adds “You don’t get to share platform with legends like Pandit Jasraj ji, Hariparsadji, Rajan Sajan ji and Shiv Kumar Sharmaji that often. And when such stalwarts have composed the tunes, then it was a tremendous pressure on me to perform well. Besides every track is differently composed, keeping the mood and situations in mind.

I also did riyaaz for 6 months” She also said in a lighter tone “Everyone is becoming a singer here and releasing their album in Bollywood. But before anyone could comment and have doubts whether I have really sung in the album, I decided to sing live in front of the audience, as the devotional songs of praise came from inside my heart”. www.indiantimes.com.au

Poet Narayan Agarawal penned eight lyrics for this album.

He has been a devotee of Lord Krishna and wanted Hema to be a part of this album. “Since the time, I heard her chanting Soundarya Lahiri in an album couple of years ago, I knew that she would sing bhajans beautifully. Her Sanskrit pronunciation is impeccable and that’s vital for any recitation” All the 8 Bhajan tracks were recorded at Lata Mangeshkar’s studio in Mumbai suburbs. The music video has been choreographed by Bhusan Lakhandri.

8 Bhajan Tracks: ‘GOPALA KO SAMARPAN’ 1. Krishna Ki Preet by Pt Jasraj 2. Na Radha Na Meera by Pt H Chourasia 3. Palna Jhule Nand Gopal by Pt HC 4. Nandlal Brijpal by Shiv Kumar 5. Prem Kamal by Rajan Sajan Mishra 6. Kar Kamlan Mein by Shiv Kumar Sharma 7. Naino ki tum by Rajan Sajan Mishra 8. Aisan Riji Mein by Pandit Jasraj Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 23

24 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 25

Who, What, Where, When

• Friday 25 August 2017 Sri Selva Vinayakar temple community celebrated Ganesha Chathurthy festival as a grand celebration.

• Members of DJJS Brisbane at the poster launch of their upcoming Mata Ki Chowki which will take place on 16th September in Nerang, everyone is invited to attend this free event. (refer to flyer page 23)

• Chinmaya Mission Krishna Janamastami - Little Krishnas share stories.

• Sant Nirankari Mission held their Mukti Parv on 20th August at their centre in Ferny Grove. They believe and emphasize the formless aspect of the divine, Nirankar, hence their name.

• Baps Swami Narayan Temple in Kingston held their Janam Astanami celebration on 20th August, the celebration was attended by over 1200 people, Steve Minikin Member for Chasworth said, he was honoured to be part of the celebration, he commented on the efforts of BAPS committee for a well organised and coordinated program.

• Dharam Guru Acharya Pt Ram Harsh Tripathi Ji giving Ashirvaad to Pt Saras Maharaj & Family during Shree Krishna Janamastmi.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

• Dharam Guru Acharya Pt Ram Harsh Tripathi Ji giving Guru Diksha to the four hardworking devotees of Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 27

GOPIO Qld - India Day Fair 2017

Brian Sullivan Photography

SUMI IMAGE Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

28 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

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Brian Sullivan Photography

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Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

Brian Sullivan Photography

GOPIO Queensland would like to thank...

Platinum Sponsor - New England College / Gold Sponsors - Delights of Paradise, Gaura Travel plus sponsoring the Return Business Class Ticket to India. Silver Sponsors - Roma Street Parkland, Dream Style Decorators. Bronze Sponsors - Cornerstone Law Offices, Finance Point Australia, Austec Services, Bridges Family Law Specialists, Metropolitan Funerals, Bella Properties, DentaGlow, JK Events, Vibrant Ayurveda, City of Ipswich. Media partners Brisbane Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio. Springfield Land Corporation, Queensland Government, Queensland Police, Queensland Ambulance, Brisbane City Council, Black and White Cabs, all Volunteers, Performers, Stall Holders, Events Rental, Stage Managers, the beautiful MC's Del Irani, Raina Khushal, Umesh Chandra, Showstopper Lakhwinder Wadali, Kamar Bhal + Rocky Buller, Brian Sullivan Photography, Sumi Image Photography, Wild Creations, Krishnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photography and our extremely hardworking Committee Members, Ambassadors and PR's Officers.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 29

Madhavacharya MADHAVACHARYA was a renowned Vaishnava philosopher who propagated the Dvaita Vedanta philosophy in Hinduism. The Sanskrit term Dvaita translates as Dualism and refers to two distinct realities assumed to exist simultaneously and independently. His philosophy is also known as Tattvavada, meaning the Realist viewpoint.

According to the Dvaita philosophy, God or the supreme soul in the form of lord Vishnu, and the individual soul known as Jivatma, exist as independent realities. Lord Vishnu, being the most powerful, causes the creation of the Universe at His will. The created world with all living entities exists independent of Him. The individual soul can achieve union with lord Vishnu with devotion, worship and by surrendering to Him. Madhvacharya’s interpretation of the relationship between God and individual souls differs from Advaita or the non-dualism philosophy of Adi Shankaracharya. His interpretation also differs from Vishistadvaita or the qualified non-dualism philosophy of Ramanujacharya.

Madhavacharya was born in 1238 CE near Udupi in modern-day Karnataka, India and was named Vasudeva by his parents. Later, he became known by the names Purnapragya, Anandatirtha and Madhavacharya.

Madhavacharya had a brother who died in his childhood. He witnessed the sorrow of his parents at the demise of their son. He also witnessed the poverty of debt-ridden families. These events made him realise the sorrow and misfortune that people encounter in their life.

His father taught him the importance of being a scholar or an ascetic to be respected by the general public as an authority.

Spiritually, Moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death is considered to be the ultimate goal of life in Hinduism. Madhvacharya became determined to help make people’s lives happy and achieve their ultimate goal of Moksha.The prevailing social and family environment at the time also stimulated him to become a Sanyasi.

Young Vasudeva approached Achyutapragya and requested him to initiate him into the Sanyasa order. Achyu-

tapragya was a well regarded scholar and venerable Sanyasi in Udupi at that time. He tried to dissuade Vasudeva from becoming a Sanyasi. Vasudeva’s parents were also reluctant to allow him to take Sanyasa. However, Vasudeva’s will prevailed and Achuytapragya initiated him into the Sanyasa when he was still in his teen years. Achuytapragya named him Purnapragya.

Purnapragya was a very intelligent student. He used to correct his childhood teachers if he noticed inaccuracies in their explanations. Purnapragya continued his study at the Achyutapragya’s Matha. Monastery.

Achyutapragya was a follower of the Advaita philosophy. Purnapragya disagreed with Achyutapragya on explanation of some Vedantic texts, which included the Bhagavad Gita, Brahmasutra and Upanishads. This behaviour was resented by Achyutapragya and his other students. Nevertheless, Achyutapragya was impressed by Purnapragya’s scholarship and encouraged him to advance his interpretations on philosophical texts.

Scholars of Buddhism, Jainism and other tradtions of Hinduism came to Achyutapragya’s Matha to hold philosophical debates with Purnapragya.

Many were swayed by his arguments.

Purnapragya visited many pilgrimage sites in South India and debated on theosophical topics offering his unique explanations of Vedantic texts. His fame spread far and wide.

Purnapragya was ordained as the highest scholar of the Achyutapragya’s Matha and named as Anandatirtha.

Shankaracharya’s Advaita Philosophy was dominant during that time.

Anandatirtha’s interpretation was inconsistent with the Advaita philosophy.

Hence Achyutapragya encouraged him to write down his own interpretation of Vedantic texts.

Anandatirtha wrote his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita which was appreciated by scholars.

He then undertook pilgrimage to North India, and debated and propagated his interpretation of Vedantic texts. He visited Badrikashram. It is believed that he met Vedavyasa there, who advised him to write a commentary of Brahmasutra.

On his return to the South, Anandatirtha wrote his commentary on Brah-

Upset Hindus urge Australia fightwear firm to withdraw battling Hindu Gods rashguards

masutra. He also wrote his interpretations of major Upanishads. In addition, he composed many devotional songs, prayers and commentaries on sections of the Vedas. In total, thirty-seven Dvaita texts are attributed to Madhavacharya.

Madhvacharya had an unusually strong physique and intellectual power. Once, a tiger attacked his disciple who was travelling with him. Madhavacharya wrestled with the tiger and was able to shoo it away, thus saving his disciple’s life.

Madhavacharya asserted himself to be the third Avatara or incarnation of Vayu, the wind god; the other two being Hanuman, the monkey god devoted to lord Ram; and Bhima, the second Pandava.

Madhavacharya established a Krishna temple and eight Mathas in Udupi.

These Mathas, known as Madhava Mathas, surround the Krishna temple.

Madhava Mathas were also established in other cities in India. He passed away in 1317 CE. Dvaita philosophy and Madhavacharya influenced other famous philosophers and scholars such as Nimbarkacharya, Vallabhacharya and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and other branches of Gaudia Vaishnava tradition relate their origin to the Dvaita philosophy of Madhavacharya.

More information on Hinduism will follow in the next edition of BIT. Awadhesh Sharma

UPSET Hindus are urging Gosford (New South Wales, Australia) based fightwear firm “Raven Fightwear” for immediate withdrawal of “Battle of the Gods - Hanoman v Ganesha” rashguards displaying images of Hindu deities Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman in a battle mode.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) 17 August, said that it was trivialization of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman, who were highly revered in Hinduism, as there was no scriptural evidence that any Hanuman versus Ganesha battle took place. Inappropriate usage of Hindu deities or concepts for commercial or other agenda was not okay as it hurt the devotees.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, also urged Raven Fightwear and its CEO to offer a formal apology, besides withdrawing “Battle of the Gods Hanoman v Ganesha” rashguards from its website and stockists.

Hinduism was the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about 1.1 billion adherents and a rich philosophical thought and it should not be taken frivolously. Symbols of any faith, larger or smaller, should not be mishandled, Rajan Zed noted.

Zed further said that such trivialization of Hindu deities was disturbing to the Hindus world over. Hindus were for free artistic expression and speech as much as anybody else if not more. But faith was something sacred and attempts at trivializing it hurt the followers, Zed added.

“Battle of the Gods - Hanoman v Ganesha” men’s/women’s long sleeve rashguards were priced at $64.95 each on the website of Raven Fightwear, which specializes in Mixed Martial Arts apparel and claims to be “one of Australia’s fastest growing fight wear brands”. It has stockists in Australia, United Kingdom, USA, Canada, Czech Republic, Singapore, Russia; and its products include shorts, rashguards, gloves t-shirts, hoodies. “Our designs centre around Norse mythology”, it states.

In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as god of wisdom and remover of obstacles and is invoked before the beginning of any major undertaking. Lord Hanuman is known for incredible strength and was a perfect grammarian.

Kavita Chandwani

Tune in To AIR every Tues & Sun (8pm AEST & 3pm IST) to listen to Bhule Bisre Geet with Kavita 30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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Sharing the ‘beauty of life’ through World Vision sponsorships in India

By Rama Gaind IF compassion is the ultimate expression of your highest self, then there’s merit in reiterating these sage words from Mahatma Gandhi: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”.

I reflected on what my close friend, Kalawati, had said when I wished I could do more with my sponsorship efforts for two young children in India. She was solemn in her reply: “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted,” she said softly.

“If the beauty of life is sharing, then you should never undervalue any assistance you can provide to help make this world a better place.”

It’s the quality of service you give to a just cause that matters. It shows you care about other people. I take heart from those sentiments because through travel you not only get to see some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, but you also meet some captivating people living in eye-opening environments.

For more than a decade, I’ve sponsored a Fifteen-year-old Mohini Mangal is with World girl and a boy through World Vision. I was •Vision’s sponsorship effectiveness co-ordinator, fortunate to meet them for the first time last Nitin Lall, in Jaipur. Photo: Rama Gaind year. I spent some time not only with Mohini Mangal, 15, and Rehan Imamudin, 10, Optimism was rife as they spoke about the but also met their families, friends and various economic development assistance members of the communities in which they and education programs and the benefits experienced by families and the local commulive in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.

Jaipur Area Development Project is World nity. Their insight revealed how World Vision’s advocacy and empowerment pro- Vision worked to provide the tools and regram. Program manager Dr Josiah Daniel, sources to create more equitable societies and sponsorship effectiveness co-ordinator for children so they can prosper and have a Nitin Lall, were most articulate when it better future. I felt their overwhelming sense came to explaining the far-reaching benefits of love, the heart-warming sentiments.

There was a dynamic sense of purpose, of of their work.

being cared for, and above all, of not being forgotten.

Even at her young age, Mohini is a homemaker who loves sewing. Rehan is studious and is keen on sports. They were happy and thriving in their environment!

It was a privilege to have seen, first-hand, the positive impact of the work being done

by World Vision as it helps communities in need. It works to help families and children reach their full potential by tackling the causes of injustice and poverty.

Effective sponsorship One of the most effective and rewarding ways to give children in hardship a better future is with child sponsorship. Through your sponsorship journey, you can change lives for just $48 per month. The presence of World Vision in the communities has “created safer and more secure environments for children in their homes and villages which has enabled them to thrive”.

The future of World Vision looks promising with the first woman as CEO … because Claire Rogers has a proven track record of strategising and delivering major change initiatives.

Emma Whitty, World Vision’s sponsor visit consultant in Melbourne, explained that for 50 years World Vision had engaged people to work towards eliminating poverty and its causes.

“We work to achieve transformation,” Emma said. “We do this through relief and development, policy advocacy and change, collaboration, education about poverty, and emphasis on personal growth, social justice and spiritual values.”

World Vision is a community development organisation that provides short-term and

long-term assistance to 100 million people worldwide (including 2.4 million children).

It’s enlightening to learn 81.4% of every dollar donated goes to field programs and advocacy work.

Reflection comes as the trip draws to a close. The Dalai Lama says: “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion”.

Rama Gaind travelled to India at her own expense.

• Rehan Imamudin, 10, with program manager, World Vision office in Jaipur, India, Dr Josiah Daniel. Photo: Rama Gaind

Hariakhan Babaji Maharaj: The deathless Saint of the Himalayas From Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad, India Continued from last issue

The Proper Way to Meet a Saint Near Nainital at the foot of the Himalayas there is a lake called Khurpatal. At the site of the lake, a village had sprung up and the people there planted gardens and sold produce in neighboring Nainital for their livelihood. Babaji Maharaj occasionally would stay in this quiet town along the placid lake and people from the region would visit to enjoy the blessings of his noble and loving presence.

Once while he was staying there a well educated young man learned of his presence and began to wonder about his identity. It was well known that Babaji had appeared to people unexpectedly in various places at widely scattered intervals of time. He was believed to be centuries old and quite a few thought he had been present for thousands of years. This man had heard that Babaji had been present at the battle of Kurukshetra which took place over 5,000 years ago. He reasoned that Babaji must really be Aswathama, one of the immortal warriors that had taken part in the battles. In the Mahabharata it is recorded that Aswathama was wounded on the top of his head and so the man concluded that this was probably the reason why Babaji Maharaj was habitually seen wearing a Tibetan cap or some other form of head covering.

The man was excited to prove his theory so he proceeded to Khurpatal and sought out the presence of Babaji. As soon as Babaji saw the Call 07 3865 6533

man he informed him that as it was very hot, he was going to bathe in the cool waters of the lake and so he requested the man to help him by carrying his possessions to the edge of the lake. The man was very happy at this because he knew that Babaji would remove his cap before entering the water and thus he could verify whether his suspicions were true.

As they stood at the edge of the lake, Babaji asked the man to help him off with his clothes. As soon as the man touched Babaji, he was filled with an inexpressible bliss. In an ecstatic mood he helped Babaji into the water, bathed him and then dried and redressed him. As they were returning to the hut where Babaji was staying the man realized with great chagrin that in his blissful state he had completely forgotten to look for scars on the top of Babaji’s head.

But Babaji knew his thoughts all along and said to the man with great equanimity, “Whenever you go to meet a saint or high spiritual soul, go with much devotion and faith. If you have any doubts, ask him for their clarification. Only those who are blessed by God can recognize a saint. Those who have a pure heart and those who are humble and egoless attain the grace of saints.”

The man then realized the omniscience of the saint and instantly became a true devotee.

In the winter of 1952 Baba Hari Dass was living in a room attached to a cave near a burial ground by the name of Ghati. The room was very cold in the winter and so he kept a fire burning inside the cave and meditated sitting close to the fire. It happened one time that as he

was meditating, he lost consciousness and his body slumped to the left and his arm fell into the fire pit.

When he came to awareness he saw the tall figure of Babaji Maharaj bending over him and removing his arm from the vicinity of the flames.

Without a word, Babaji turned and left as quickly as he had come.

Baba Hari Dass jumped up quickly in order to catch up with Babaji and bow to his feet but when he stepped outside Babaji had disappeared.

Babaji’s Great Disciple Lahiri Mahasaya One of the earliest appearances of Babaji was documented by one of his most important disciples, the great saint and yogi, Sri Shayama Charan Lahiri Mahasaya. Lahiri www.indiantimes.com.au

Mahasaya was born in 1828 and while growing up he was taught several languages including Sanskrit. As a young man he closely studied the vedas and eagerly listened to discussions of learned brahmins. Lahiri was full of good qualities and well liked by everyone around him. By the age of 33 he had married and gotten a government post and received news that was to change his life. He was told to report to the city of Rhanikhet which sits at the foot of one of the highest Himalayan peaks, Nanda Devi. Once there he was immediately taken with the beauty of the Himalayan foothills and spent his evenings hiking high up into the mountain fastnesses.

One day while he was hiking he heard his name being called and followed the voice high up to a clearing surrounded by small caves.

There he saw Babaji Maharaj who addressed him familiarly by name and welcomed him after his long absence. Although Lahiri didn’t know who he was he felt drawn to his presence. Babaji explained that in Lahiri’s former life, he had been his guru and that Lahiri had been his advanced disciple, meditating for decades under his guidance in one of the caves that surrounded the mountainous ledge. With a touch to his forehead, Babaji awakened his memory of that past life they had spend together. Then Babaji induced in him the highest or Nirvikalpa state of Samadhi in which the individual wave merges with the Universal ocean of consciousness and attains the state of Cosmic Consciousness. Lahiri remained in unbroken samadhi for seven days and then Babaji brought him back to his human awareness

and explained to him that Lahiri Mahasaya had taken his present birth for a purpose and that he was to be instrumental in spreading the Yogic teachings of union with God to the greater world beyond the borders of India.

Lahiri Mahasaya was given the task of setting the example of the ideal Yogi householder, maintaining job and family and living in the world, yet remaining peacefully poised in the bliss of inner awareness. The perfume of his spiritual greatness attracted dozens of followers. Lahiri spontaneously developed many siddhis or yogic powers and these further enhanced the faith and devotion of his many disciples.

According to Babaji, Lahiri Mahasaya was to be instrumental in bringing East and West together.

This he did through the agency of his direct disciple Sri Priya Yukteswar Giri who in his turn was the Guru of Paramahansa Yogananda, well known in the West as the author of Autobiography of a Yogi.

The disciple, Sri Yukteswar, wrote a treatise showing the parallels between the Christian (Western) and Hindu (Eastern) religions. At the urging of Sri Yukteswar, Paramahansa Yogananda in his turn moved to the West to California and introduced much of America to the Eastern Yogic science of union with God, independent of any specific religion. Thus was the practicality of the West blended together with the spirituality of the East. All this was foretold by Babaji in his initial meeting with Lahiri Mahasaya in 1861.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 31

Jesus is Lord Part 2 Key Scripture: For this is what the Lord says— He who created the heavens, He is God; He who fashioned and made the earth, He founded it; He did not create it to be empty, but formed it to be inhabited— He says: “I am the Lord, and there is no other.

- Isaiah 45:18 DEAR Reader, WE are exited to bring the greatest good news on this planet just for you! Our theme is to make God simple and personal. God is not an object or an image or imagination of human mind. God is a living and loving person. We find this simple revelation in the pages of Holy Bible. Keep reading with an open heart and humble spirit. You will encounter your Creator today. You don’t need a thousand years for your Salvation (Mukti).

You can receive your greatest miracle ‘Mukti’ today. This the confidence you can have in Christ alone.

The word Lord means, the person who has ownership, authority and rights. God the Lord created us for a close communication and relationship. But there is a three letter word called “SIN” that has separated you from close communication with our Lord.

Only a humble heart hears His gentle and loving voice . He longs to cleanse us from all our sins. That is the reason why Lord God took a human form in the body of Jesus Christ. Our sins have corrupted our blood and our ability to connect with our Creator.

The only way of God to reconcile us to a close relationship is made possible by the

cleansing of our consciousness. Life is in the blood. The blood of Jesus alone has the power and grace to heal our hearts and cleanse our hearts. Today, don't harden your heart to the holy whisper in your soul.

God created you for a loving relationship.

Not to boss over you and harass your life with troubles. It our sins that breaks the relationship with the Lord and opens the door for Satan and to deceive us from understanding God. That is why we read that The Lord Jesus speaks with absolute authority and in perfect love. The Lord Jesus reveals Himself as a Creator and Redeemer of all mankind from our sins. As you read His words again today let your hearts be soften like silk by His supreme love. As the morning sunrise takes away the darkness, let your hearts be lighted by His good-ness and mercy. His love is perfect and His love is wonderfully demonstrated on the cross. Let us listen to His gentle and beautiful voice again today and enjoy the true freedom that only His Lordship can bring to our lives.

For this is what the Lord says— He who created the heavens, He is God; He who fashioned and made the earth, He founded it; He did not create it to be empty, but formed it to be inhabited— He says: “I am the Lord, and there is no other.

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Let this day be your day of greatest miracle.

The miracle of knowing and reconciling with your true Lord and Saviour.

We invite you to please pray this sincerely; “Dear Father God, today thank you for word that has touched my heart. I confess with my mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and believe in my heart that God raised Him from the dead. Now help me to grow in the knowledge of your grace and mercy. Teach me your ways so that I can be person who will learn to honour you and love one another. - Amen.

Please email to us your new birth experience so we can help you grow in the glorious hope in your Creator. Email to us to help you connect with Christ: navig8grace@gmail.com

Family

Sadhguru, Isha Foundation A FAMILY does not mean dependence, it is a certain partnership that you formed.

Partnerships are relevant only when both the people are willing and they are going in a certain direction together. If constantly both the partners are concerned about each others’ wellbeing, then partnership is meaningful. If it is all about you, either in terms of family or in terms of profession or in terms of spirituality – whichever way – then partnership is irrelevant for such a person. If you stay together you will create a big mess for both the people. You do not stay in a family because of duty; you stay in a family because there is a bond of love that you have formed. If there is a bond of love nobody needs to tell you what to do and what not to do; you will do what is needed.

Just because you formed a bond of love with somebody or a group of people does not mean you should not aspire for big things in your life. The best thing that you can do to people around you is, you make yourself in the greatest possible way a human being can be. You must pursue that. The more you evolve, the more you contribute to people around. If people do not understand this, they think the only way they can have you is you must be stuck on the same level as they are

stuck on, with the same limitations and the same problems and you should not seek freedom beyond that, then that is not a family; that is a mafia. If you are running a mafia of how to extract the best from each other, that is not a family. How to give the best to each other, that is a family. If that is not there, there is no family, so there is no question of breaking it.

Every human being should naturally aspire for the highest possible potential that he can reach in his life because that is the greatest contribution he can make to life around him. If you keep yourself limited, that is not a contribution, not just for your life, for everybody. If you are in a certain state of wellbeing, wisdom and blissfulness, if you are in the highest possible way that you could be, that is the best thing you can do to all the people around you.

That will not happen without striving and without some sacrifice; and sacrifice is not a sacrifice. Only when you have no love for each other, it is a sacrifice. If there is love for each other, to forgo something for another person’s wellbeing is a privilege.

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary and bestselling author. Sadhguru has been conferred the “Padma Vibhushan” by the Government of India in 2017.

Spring Time....

Arya pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc.

What is spiritual growth?

By Jitendra Deo President APSQ MANY spiritual concepts, spiritual growth is a misnomer. In reality, the spirit does not grow or shrink: it is always the way it is. What is spirit anyway? It is that which knows that it exists. Other names for spirit are life force, soul, awareness or beingness.

As religious people, we are involved with a certain amount of traditional, ceremonial, and dogmatic behaviour. We do it automatically, because when we were children, we were simply told to behave and even think in a prescribed way. But, do we really experience spiritual growth – to understand this, we have to know what constitutes spiritual growth.

Perhaps, all traditions are important stepping stones but spiritual growth occurs when the spirit grows and the ego shrinks. Any spiritual growth happens only in direct relationship to a shrinking ego: without a shrinking ego, there is no spiritual growth.

Example of spiritual growth versus a growing ego: If we do a good deed selflessly without the slightest consideration of the rewards or fruits, as a result, we grow spiritually. If we do that good deed and feel proud or even simply good, we strengthen the ego. Tricky but logical, is it not? If the fruits of action do not affect the person, he is free from action.

Why are we interested in spiritual matters?

Why do we bother to look for God? The answer if we are honest is that we are trying to survive, to save our soul and if possible, even our skin.

There are always those who insist they have all the answers and there are also those who laugh at these statements without investing as much as a second thought. Maybe the answer is closer than we think and already known by the only person we know we can trust – our self.

If we ignore the non-essential and look for the essential, the real meaning, then all religious scripture and all religions do agree more than disagree. All religions have followers who seem to be more concerned with external matters but there are always a few who go deeper; they are called mystics, saints, self-realized and so on. When we study their writings they

all agree in the most important points: there is God, that God can be found at the centre of our being and we can unite with God to become One. Essentially all scriptures agree in essence, but only when we bother to look deeper for the real meaning.

Is there are spiritual comfort for the aged, terminally ill or anyone facing death?

We may draw strength from our belief systems. All religions including natural belief systems agree that life goes on and agree on existence of God. We may draw strength from science. According to science we cannot really say that we are able to destroy something or anything so completely that it fades into non- existence. We can only change the objects shape and condition. Even if we burn something and “destroy” its ashes, the object continues as energy and the awareness as awareness. The reason that awareness continues is that it did not develop out of dead matter or lifeless energy. Those materialistic scientists who laughed and promised proof that awareness is nothing but a byproduct of biological processes failed to do so.

Other scientists are now confirming the wisdom of ancient sages and saints.

We may draw strength from personal experiences of others. There are more than a few people who have had out-of- body experiences and returned from clinically dead to tell us about it.

We may draw strength from real witnesses: Sages, Rishis, self-realized persons and advanced yogis.

We may draw strength from our spiritual exercises and personal experience. Try to become one with your object of devotion, concentrate fully on God, or simply love your inner self to a point that only pure awareness continues to exist and that leads to the inner bliss and beingness. Fear is the result of our identification with body and mind. Both will eventually cease to exist and are not needed for or well-being.

God Bless you all, Adapted from APSA website article by Dr Raghwa Sharma Please contact Jitendra Deo 3273 3029 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or log on: www.aryasamajqueensland.com

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

Pastor Joseph Dass DEAR reader, it is our joy to bring to you the word of God. We all have had unfavourable or negative words spoken over us in the past.

Perhaps somebody told you that you don’t have the skills, qualifications or resources and you are not going to be successful. It’s almost like they cursed your future. Now those words are like embedded in your mind, and you are stuck, contained and limited to any progress. But the good news is that the blessing of God is greater than any curse. If you free yourself of those negative stronghold and choose to believe what God says about you in His word, you will begin to see a turning point in your life. Your winter will come to an end and your spring time will begin.

In the scriptures (Exodus 3) we read that God called Moses for an assignment. He was to lead the children of Israel out of slavery in Egypt to their promised land. And Moses came up with all the excuses about his lack of qualifications, skills, education, preparation, capabilities, talent and readiness and how they could not match towards his calling and assignment. Why? Because after listening to some negative voices he began to believe that he could not go far in life and he was not a high achiever.

You may have missed the opportunity to finish the schooling, or leave training to look after a loved one, or the finances did not come through to complete the university or you didn’t get the support from people. Now you think you cannot go any further because of what you did not get. And this is how Moses felt. But in a very short period God trained, equipped, qualified, prepared and made him ready for his assignment. It all happened because Moses believed he had a

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purpose and assignment that was unique and different from others and things could change. That he was prepared to take responsibility for his future and believe God. That he did not need any extra qualifications but God could qualify him and equip him for the task ahead.

Here are 4 things you can learn from Moses experience 1. Always know your worth and how special you are, and don’t let someone else’s qualifications make you feel small. Moses felt others were more qualified then him. He forgot that God was in charge of the assignment and He was responsible for equipping Moses for the task. Qualifications may prepare you for the future but your attitude will prepare you for each day.

2. Start by doing what is possible and suddenly you will find yourself doing the impossible. Before Moses could do the impossible he had to let go of the rod in his hand, which was possible. Many times the measure of who you are is what you do with what you have.

3. You don’t have to agree with what others think of you. And don’t be like Moses when he said “who am I, that I should go to the king.” God was not having a difficult time when He made you.

4. Do not limit yourself by looking through the rear vision mirror. This is only for those who think of what they have missed out on and now it is too late. Look through the front wind screen, this is for people who believe that there is more to come. Moses was 80 years old. Then he got started!

God bless you - Ps Joseph Dass josephdass@optusnet.com.au Call 07 3865 6533

Virtues of Muharram and Fasting on ‘Ashura’ Compiled by Ml. Nawaaz Ashrafi 2.2K1.2K Allah’s sacred month of Muharram is a blessed and important month. It is the first month of the Hijri calendar and is one of the four sacred months concerning which Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, the number of months with Allah is twelve months (in a year), so it was ordained by Allah on the Day when He created the heavens and the earth; of them, four are sacred. That is the right religion, so wrong not yourselves therein … “Al-Qur’an 9:36 Abu Bakarah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The year is twelve months of which four are sacred, the three consecutive months of Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah and Muharram, and Rajab Mudar which comes between Jumadah and Sha’ban.”Reported by AlBukhari, 2958 Muharram is so called because it is a sacred (muharram) month and to confirm its sanctity.

Allah’s words (interpretation of the meaning): “ ... so wrong not yourselves therein … “ mean do not wrong yourselves in these sacred months, because sin in these months is worse than in other months. It was reported that Ibn ‘Abbas said that this phrase referred to all the months, then these four were singled out and made sacred, so that sin in these months is more serious and good deeds bring a greater reward.

Qatadah said concerning this phrase that wrongdoing during the sacred months is more serious and more sinful that wrongdoing at any other time.

Wrongdoing at any time is a serious matter, but Allah gives more weight to whichever of His commands He will. Allah has chosen certain ones of His creation. He has chosen from among the angels Messengers and from among mankind Messengers. He chose from among speech the remembrance of Him (dhikr). He chose from among the earth the mosques, from among the months Ramadhan and the sacred months, from among the days Friday and from among the nights LaylatulQadr, so venerate that which Allah has told us to venerate. People of understanding and wisdom venerate the things that Allah has told us to venerate. [Summarized from the Tafsir of Ibn Kathir, may Allah have mercy on him. Tafsir of Surah at-Tawbah, ayah 36] The Virtue of Observing More Nafil Fasts During Muharram Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: ‘The best of fasting after Ramadhan is fasting Allah’s month of Muharram.’ “Reported by Muslim, 1982 The phrase “Allah’s month”, connecting the name of the month to the name of Allah in a genitive grammatical structure, signifies the importance of the month. Al-Qari said: “The apparent meaning is all of the month of Muharram.” But it was proven that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) never fasted any whole month apart from Ramadhan, so this hadith is probably meant to encourage increasing one’s fasting during Muharram, without meaning that one should fast for the entire month.

It was reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to fast more in Sha’ban. It is likely that the virtue of Muharram was not revealed to him until the end of his life, before he was able to fast during this month.

[Sharh an-Nawawi ‘ala Sahih Muslim] Allah Chooses Whatever Times and Places He Wills Al-’Izz ibn ‘Abdus-Salam (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “Times and places may be given preferred status in two ways, either temporal or religious/spiritual. With regard to the latter, this is because Allah bestows His generosity on His slaves at those times or in those places, by giving a greater reward for deeds done, such as giving a greater reward for fasting in Ramadhan than for fasting at all other times, and also on the day of ‘Ashura’, the virtue of which is due to Allah’s generosity and kindness towards His slaves on that day … “Qawa’id al-Ahkam, 1/38 ‘Ashura’ in History Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) came to Madinah and saw the Jews fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’. He said, ‘What is this?’ They said, ‘This is a righteous day, it is the day when Allah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Musa fasted on this day.’ He said, ‘We have more right to Musa than you,’so he fasted on that day and commanded [the Muslims] to fast on that day.” [Reported by al-Bukhari, 1865] “This is a righteous day” – in a report narrated by Muslim, [the Jews said:] “This is a great day, on which Allah saved Musa and his people, and drowned Pharaoh and his people.” “Musa fasted on this day” – a report narrated by Muslim adds: “ … in thanksgiving to Allah, so we fast on this day.” According to a report narrated by alBukhari: “ … so we fast on this day to venerate it.”

A version narrated by Imam Ahmad adds: “This is the day on which the Ark settled on Mount Judi, so Nuh fasted this day in thanksgiving,” and “commanded [the Muslims] to fast on that day” – according to another report also narrated by

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al-Bukhari: “He said to his Companions: ‘You have more right to Musa than they do, so fast on that day.’ “ The practice of fasting on ‘Ashura’ was known even in the days of Jahiliyyah, before the Prophet’s mission. It was reported that ‘A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: “The people of Jahiliyyah used to fast on that day … “ Al-Qurtubi said: “Perhaps Quraysh used to fast on that day on the basis of some past law, such as that of Ibrahim, upon whom be peace.”

It was also reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to fast on ‘Ashura’ in Makkah, before he migrated to Madinah. When he migrated to Madinah, he found the Jews celebrating this day, so he asked them why, and they replied as described in the hadithquoted above.

He commanded the Muslims to be different from the Jews, who took it as a festival, as was reported in the hadith of Abu Musa (may Allah be pleased with him), who said: “The Jews used to take the day of ‘Ashura’ as a festival [according to a report narrated by Muslim: the day of ‘Ashura’ was venerated by the Jews, who took it as a festival. According to another report also narrated by Muslim: the people of Khaybar (the Jews) used to take it as a festival and their women would wear their jewellery and symbols on that day]. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: ‘So you [Muslims] should fast on that day.’ “[Reported by al-Bukhari] Apparently the motive for commanding the Muslims to fast on this day was the desire to be different from the Jews, so that the Muslims would fast when the Jews did not, because people do not fast on a day of celebration. [Summarized from the words of alHafidh Ibn Hajar – may Allah have mercy on him – in Fath al-Bari Sharh ‘ala Sahih al-Bukhari] Fasting on ‘Ashura’ was a gradual step in the process of introducing fasting as a prescribed obligation in Islam. Fasting appeared in three forms.

When the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) came to Madinah, he told the Muslims to fast on three days of every month and on the day of ‘Ashura’, then Allah made fasting obligatory when He said (interpretation of the meaning): “ … observing the fasting is prescribed for you … “ [Al-Qur’an2:183] [Ahkam al-Qur’an by al-Jassas, part 1] The obligation was transferred from the fast of ‘Ashura’ to the fast of Ramadhan, and this one of the proofs in the field of Usul al-Fiqh that it is possible to abrogate a lighter duty in favour of a heavier duty.

Before the obligation of fasting ‘Ashura’ was abrogated, fasting on this day was obligatory, as can be seen from the clear command to observe this fast. Then it was further confirmed later on, then reaffirmed by making it a general command addressed to everybody, and once again by instructing mothers not to breastfeed their infants during this fast. It was reported from Ibn Mas’ud that when fasting Ramadhan was made obligatory, the obligation to fast ‘Ashura’ was lifted, i.e., it was no longer obligatory to fast on this day, but it is still desirable (mustahabb).

The Virtues of Fasting ‘Ashura’ Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both) said: “I never saw the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) so keen to fast any day and give it priority over any other than this day, the day of ‘Ashura’, and this month, meaning Ramadhan.”Reported by Al-Bukhari, 1867 The meaning of his being keen was that he intended to fast on that day in the hope of earning the reward for doing so. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “For fasting the day of ‘Ashura’, I hope that Allah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before.” [Reported by Muslim, 1976] This is from the bounty of Allah towards us: for fasting one day He gives us expiation for the sins of a whole year. And Allah is the Owner of Great Bounty.

Which Day is ‘Ashura’?

An-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “‘Ashura’ and Tasu’a’ are two elongated names [the vowels are elongated] as is stated in books on the Arabic language. Our companions said: ‘Ashura’ is the tenth day of Muharram and Tasu’a’ is the ninth day. This is our opinion, and that of the majority of scholars.

This is the apparent meaning of the ahadith and is what we understand from the general wording. It is also what is usually understood by scholars of the language.”Al-Majmu’ ‘Ashura’ is an Islamic name that was not known at the time of Jahiliyyah. [Kashshaf al-Qina’, part 2, Sawm Muharram] Ibn Qudamah (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “‘Ashura’ is the tenth day of Muharram. This is the opinion of Sa’id ibn al-Musayyib and alHasan. It was what was reported by Ibn ‘Abbas, who said: ‘The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) commanded us to fast ‘Ashura’, the tenth day of Muharram.’ [Reported by at-Tirmidhi, who said, a sahih hasan hadith] It was reported that Ibn ‘Abbas said: ‘The ninth,’ and reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to fast the ninth. [Reported by Muslim] ‘Ata’ reported that he said, ‘Fast the ninth and the tenth, and do not be like the Jews.’ If this is understood, we can say on this basis that it is mustahabb (encouraged) to fast

on the ninth and the tenth, for that reason. This is what Ahmad said, and it is the opinion of Ishaq.”

It is Mustahabb (Encouraged) to Fast Tasu’a’ with ‘Ashura’ ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both) said: “When the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) fasted on ‘Ashura’ and commanded the Muslims to fast as well, they said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, it is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.’

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, ‘If I live to see the next year, in sha Allah, we will fast on the ninth day too.’ But it so happened that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) passed away before the next year came.” [Reported

by Muslim, 1916] Ash-Shafi’i and his companions, Ahmad, Ishaq and others said: “It is mustahabb to fast on both the ninth and tenth days, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) fasted on the tenth, and intended to fast on the ninth.”

On this basis it may be said that there are varying degrees of fasting ‘Ashura’, the least of which is to fast only on the tenth and the best of which is to fast the ninth as well. The more one fasts in Muharram, the better it is.

The Reason Why it is Mustahabb to Fast on Tasu’a’ An-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “The scholars – our companions and others – mentioned several reasons why it is mustahabb to fast on Tasu’a’: The intention behind it is to be different from the Jews, who only venerate the tenth day.

This opinion was reported from Ibn ‘Abbas …

The intention is to add another day’s fast to ‘Ashura’. This is akin to the prohibition on fasting a Friday by itself, as was mentioned by alKhattabi and others.

To be on the safe side and make sure that one fasts on the tenth, in case there is some error in sighting the crescent moon at the beginning of Muharram and the ninth is in fact the tenth.”

The strongest of these reasons is being different from the People of the Book.

Ibn Hajar (may Allah be pleased with him) said in his commentary on the hadith “If I live until the next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth day” and “What he meant by fasting on the ninth day was probably not that he would limit himself to that day, but would add it to the tenth, either to be on the safe side or to be different from the Jews and Christians, which is more likely. This is also what we can understand from some of the reports narrated by Muslim.” [Fath, 4/245] Ruling on Fasting Only on the Day of ‘Ashura’ “Fasting on the day of ‘Ashura’ is an expiation for a year, and it is not makruh to fast only that day … “ [Al-Fatawa al-Kubra, part 5] In Tuhfat al-Muhtaj by Ibn Hajar al-Haytami, it says: “There is nothing wrong with fasting only on ‘Ashura’.” [Part 3, Bab Sawm at-Tatawwu’] Fasting on ‘Ashura’ even if it is a Saturday or a Friday At-Tahawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) allowed us to fast on ‘Ashura’ and urged us to do so. He did not say that if it falls on a Saturday we should not fast. This is evidence that all days of the week are included in this. In our view – and Allah knows best – it could be the case that even if this is true (that it is not allowed to fast on Saturdays), it is so that we do not venerate this day and refrain from food, drink and intercourse, as the Jews do. As for the one who fasts on a Saturday without intending to venerate it, and does not do so because the Jews regard it as blessed, then this is not makruh … “ [Mushkil al-Athar, part 2, Bab Sawm Yawm asSabt] The author of Al-Minhaj said: “It is disliked (makruh) to fast on a Friday alone … But it is no longer makruh if you add another day to it, as mentioned in the sahih report to that effect. A person may fast on a Friday if it coincides with his habitual fast, or he is fasting in fulfilment of a vow, or he is making up an obligatory fast that he has missed, as was stated in a sahih report.”

Ash-Sharih said in Tuhfat al-Muhtaj: “If it coincides with his habitual fast – i.e., such as if he fasts alternate days, and a day that he fasts happens to be a Friday, if he is fasting in fulfilment of a vow, etc.” – this also applies to fasting on days prescribed in Shari’ah, such as ‘Ashura’ or ‘Arafah.

[Tuhfat al-Muhtaj, part 3, Bab Sawm al-Tatawwu’] Al-Bahuti (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “It is makruh to deliberately single out a Saturday for fasting, because of the hadith of ‘Abdullah ibn Bishr, who reported from his sister: ‘Do not fast on Saturdays except in the case of obligatory fasts’ [reported by Ahmad with a jayyid isnadand by alHakim, who said: according to the conditions of al-Bukhari], and because it is a day that is venerated by the Jews, so singling it out for fasting means being like them … except when a Friday or Saturday coincides with a day when Muslims habitually fast, such as when it coincides with the day of ‘Arafah or the day of ‘Ashura’, and a person has the habit of fasting on these days, in which case it is not makruh, because a person’s habit carries some weight.”[Kashshaf al-Qina’, part 2, Bab Sawm al-Tatawwu’] What Should be Done if there is Confusion about the Beginning of the Month?

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Ahmad said: “If there is confusion about the beginning of the month, one should fast for three days, to be sure of fasting on the ninth and tenth days.” [Al-Mughni by Ibn Qudamah, part 3 – asSiyam – Siyam ‘Ashur’] If a person does not know when Muharram began, and he wants to be sure of fasting on the tenth, he should assume that Dhul-Hijjah was thirty days – as is the usual rule – and should fast on the ninth and tenth. Whoever wants to be sure of fasting the ninth as well should fast the eight, ninth and tenth (then if Dhul-Hijjah was twenty-nine days, he can be sure of having fasted Tasu’a’ and ‘Ashura’).

But given that fasting on ‘Ashura’ is mustahabb rather than wajib, people are not commanded to look for the crescent of the new moon of Muharram as they are to do in the case of Ramadhanand Shawwal.

Fasting ‘Ashura’ – For What Does it Offer Expiation?

Imam an-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “It expiates for all minor sins, i.e., it brings forgiveness of all sins except major sins.” Then he said (may Allah have mercy on him): “Fasting the day of ‘Arafah expiates for two years, and the day of ‘Ashura’ expiates for one year. If when a person says ‘Amin’ it coincides with the ‘Amin’ of the angels, he will be forgiven all his previous sins …

Each one of the things that we have mentioned will bring expiation. If there are minor sins for which expiation is needed, expiation for them will be accepted; if there are no minor sins or major sins, good deeds will be added to his account and he will be raised in status … If he had committed major sins but no minor sins, we hope that his major sins will be reduced.”[Al-Majmu’ Sharh al-Muhadhdhab, part 6, Sawm Yawm ‘Arafah] “Taharah, salah, and fasting in Ramadhan, on the day of ‘Arafah and on ‘Ashura’ expiate for minor sins only.” [Al-Fatawa al-Kubra, part 5] Not Relying Too Much on the Reward for Fasting Some people who are deceived rely too much on things like fasting on ‘Ashura’ or the day of ‘Arafah, to the extent that some of them say, “Fasting on ‘Ashura’ will expiate for the sins of the whole year, and fasting on the day of ‘Arafah will bring extra rewards.” Ibn al-Qayyim said: “This misguided person does not know that fasting in Ramadhan and praying five times a day are much more important than fasting on the day of ‘Arafah and ‘Ashura’, and that they expiate for the sins between one Ramadhan and the next, or between one Friday and the next, so long as one avoids major sins. But they cannot expiate for minor sins unless one also avoids major sins; when the two things are put together, they have the strength to expiate for minor sins. Among those deceived people may be one who thinks that his good deeds are more than his sins, because he does not pay attention to his bad deeds or check on his sins, but if he does a good deed he remembers it and relies on it. This is like the one who seeks Allah’s forgiveness with his tongue (i.e., by words only), and glorifies Allah by saying “Subhanallah” one hundred times a day, then he backbites about the Muslims and slanders their honour, and speaks all day long about things that are not pleasing to Allah. This person is always thinking about the virtues of his tasbihat (saying “Subhanallah”) and tahlilat (saying “La ilaha illallah”) but he pays no attention to what has been reported concerning those who backbite, tell lies and slander others, or commit other sins of the tongue. They are completely deceived.” [Al-Mawsu’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, part 31, Ghurur] Fasting ‘Ashura’ When One Still has Days to Make Up From Ramadhan The fuqaha’ differed concerning the ruling on observing voluntary fasts before a person has made up days that he or she did not fast in Ramadhan.

The Hanafis said that it is permissible to observe voluntary fasts before making up days from Ramadhan, and it is not makruh to do so, because the missed days do not have to be made up straight away. The Malikis and Shafi’is said that it is permissible but is makruh, because it means that one is delaying something obligatory. Ad-Dusuqi said: “It is makruh to observe a voluntary fast when one still has to make up an obligatory fast, such as a fast in fulfilment of a vow, or a missed obligatory fast, or a fast done as an act of expiation (kafarah), whether the voluntary fast which is being given priority over an obligatory fast is something confirmed in Shari’ah or not, such as ‘Ashura’ and the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah, according to the most correct opinion.” The Hanbalis said that it is haram to observe a voluntary fast before making up any fasts missed in Ramadhan, and that a voluntary fast in such cases does not count, even if there is plenty of time to make up the obligatory fast. So a person must give priority to the obligatory fasts until he has made them up. [Al-Mawsu’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, part 28, Sawm at-Tatawwu’] Muslims must hasten to make up any missed fasts after Ramadhan, so that they will be able to fast ‘Arafah and ‘Ashura’ without any problem. If a person fasts ‘Arafah and ‘Ashura’ with the intention from the night before of making up for a missed fast, this will be good enough to make up what he has missed, for the bounty of Allah is great.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 33

Health Beauty Wellbeing New Hepatitis C medication Do you have fussy kids who refuse can treat all hep C genotypes to eat greens? Get a wind-chime

Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) FROM 1 August 2017, adults with hepatitis C can access a new highly effective medication called “Epclusa” at a very low price.

This medication has just been listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and patients with a Medicare card only need to pay a maximum $38.80 a month or $6.30 a month with a concession card (such as a Seniors Card or a Health Care Card). If you don’t have a Medicare card, the medication costs over $20,000 per treatment.

Epclusa is simpler for doctors to prescribe as it can treat any genotype of hepatitis C and cirrhosis. It is also easy to take – just one pill a day for 12 weeks. The medication has very high cure rate over 95% but only has minor side effects, and the most common side effects include headache and tiredness. Before the treatment, people with hepatitis C need to go through some necessary tests including hepatitis B tests.

The medication can be used for most people but some patients should avoid taking the medication such as * pregnant women or people want to get pregnant (for both the man and the woman) * women who are breastfeeding Both GPs and specialists can prescribe the medication for patients.

Patients need to take 12 weeks of the treatment. After the treatment has been com-

pleted, patients should go back to see their doctor again after 12 weeks to find out if they are cured (cleared the hepatitis C virus completely from the body).

If patients have cirrhosis, they need to have lifelong monitoring.

After receiving prescriptions from a doctor, patients can go to a local pharmacy to get the medication. However, patients need to tell the pharmacy a few days earlier before pick it up because local pharmacies normally don’t stock the medication.

Hepatitis C is transmitted through contacting infected blood, such as using unsterile medical equipment, sharing toothbrush, razors and so on. If you are in doubt, please go to see your GP to have a hepatitis C test. If you have hepatitis C, now is the best time to get treated by the new medication.

Please remember, hepatitis C can be re-infected. If people have been cured, they can get it again. Because there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C yet, it is very important to avoid blood contact all time.

For more information about our program and services, please call Phone: (07) 3255 1540 Email: health@eccq.com.au *Your information will be kept private and confidential.

In Cairns, you can also contact the local service: Rhondda Lewis Viral Hepatitis Health Practitioner Direct Phone: 07 4226 4761 About Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland BBV&STI Program Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program is funded by Queensland Health to provide BBV&STI information and support to migrants and refugees throughout Queensland.

Skilli Skilling Queenslanders Queensl Quee for Work W Community--Based Tr Community Commun Comm Training :H¶OO SURYLGH \RX ZLWK VXSSRUWHG WUDLQLQJ LQ industry and skill areas where there are local employers with job opportunities. The training is delivered in a community -based setting and includes support to successfully complete the program and transition into work.

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Queensland residents aged 15 or above, who are Australian citizens, permanent residents, temporary Visa Holders with work and study permits on the pathway to permanent residency, refugee and humanitarian Visa Holders and New Zealand citizens.

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34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

A wind-chime is not just good Feng Shui. It can also work wonders with your children making them eat more green vegetables.

Hanging wind-chimes in the kitchen or dining area may encourage children to eat more green vegetables, an Oxford study suggests. Researchers found that playing high chirpy notes like wind chimes while children eat, inadvertently improves flavour by sweetening the taste.

Charles Spence, a professor at Oxford University in the UK, said that ‘sonic seasoning’ can help enhance taste and suppress the bit-

terness of vegetables for children who are picky eaters. A survey of 2,000 adults found that their biggest food phobia as a child was sprouts, followed by cabbage, peas and broccoli.

“The idea with chirpy music like wind chimes is that it contains the high pitched musical notes that have been shown to bring out the sweetness in a food that contains a sweet note,” Spence was quoted as saying by The Telegraph. Accentuating sweetness will reduce the perceived bitterness of vegetables, he said.

HT

Crème Fresh Hair Treatment Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412 350 013

BEAUTIFUL, shiny hair is any woman’s dream. Today, we are going to learn how to create and preserve that shine. This is one of the most renowned methods for maintaining a sleek and shiny texture.

Most often referred to as a ‘traditional’ hair treatment, this crème bath is a rich conditioning solution, with thick viscous consistency that thoroughly coats your hair. After steaming, it is washed off to leave your hair feeling feather soft.

Natural ingredients are often added to the crème bath product to help treat or alleviate specific hair conditions.

You might want to consider inviting a friend and taking turns to run crème-coated fingers through sections of hair, leaving your head feeling moist, cool and heavy.

Then lie back as rhythmic finger movements massage the scalp, and gradually move down the neck and shoulders. The crème will stimulate the scalp and hair follicles, softening and strengthening the

strands of hair.

These are a few of our recommended ingredients, but you can always add or subtract elements to your liking or needs: Carrot: for hair growth Henna: for nourishing dry or permed hair Avocado: for feeding dry hair Ginseng: for strengthening hair roots Celery: for increasing hair elasticity Aloe Vera: for general hair food Candlenut: for promoting glossy, dark hair Seaweed: for stimulating hair growth Grind and mix it all up, and there you have a nice spa weekend with all your friends.

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Want a healthy heart? Eat small portions of dark chocolate having extra virgin olive oil every day A study has found that consuming dark chocolate enriched with extra virgin olive oil increases levels of good cholesterol and preserves cells that maintain blood vessels.

Dark chocolate enriched with extra virgin olive oil may improve your heart health by increasing good cholesterol levels and preserving the ‘repairing cells’ critical for maintaining blood vessels, a study has found.

“A healthy diet is known to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease,” said Rossella Di Stefano, a cardiologist at the University of Pisa in Italy. “Fruits and vegetables exert their protective effects through plant polyphenols, which are found in cocoa, olive oil, and apples,” Di Stefano. “Research has found that the Italian Panaia red apple has very high levels of polyphenols and antioxidants,” he said.

The study tested whether consumption of dark chocolate enriched with extra virgin olive oil or Panaia red apple was linked to atherosclerosis – fat build-up in the artery walls – in healthy people who had cardiovascular risk factors.

The study included 26 volunteers (14 men, 12 women) with at least three cardiovascular risk factors (dyslipidaemia, smoking, hypertension or family history of heart disease) who received 40 grammes of dark chocolate daily for 28 days.

For 14 consecutive days it contained 10% extra virgin olive oil and for 14 consecutive days it contained 2.5% Panaia red apple. The two types of chocolate were given in random www.indiantimes.com.au

order.

Progression of atherosclerosis was assessed by metabolic changes, lipid profile, blood pressure and circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPC), which are critical for vascular repair and maintenance of the cells inside blood vessels.

Urine and blood samples were collected at baseline and after the intervention. Urine samples were analysed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy for endogenous metabolites. Circulating EPC levels were assessed with flow cytometry.

Smoking status, body mass index, blood pressure, glycaemia and lipid profile were also monitored.

After 28 days, the researchers found that the chocolate enriched with olive oil was associated with significantly increased EPC levels compared to both baseline and after consumption of apple-enriched chocolate.

Olive oil-enriched chocolate was associated with significantly increased high-density lipoprotein or “good” cholesterol and decreased blood pressure compared to baseline.

“We found that small daily portions of dark chocolate with added natural polyphenols from extra virgin olive oil was associated with an improved cardiovascular risk profile,” said Di Stefano.

“Our study suggests that extra virgin olive oil might be a good food additive to help preserve our ‘repairing cells’, the EPC,” researchers said.

HT Call 07 3865 6533

Health Beauty Wellbeing

Who would benefit from egg freezing? cityfertility.com.au Five main groups of women seek this reproductive service: • Single women who have not yet met their life partner and wish to have children at a later date. These women are aware that fertility declines with age and are choosing to undergo IVF treatment sooner, storing their eggs for the future.

• Women with cancer, as chemotherapy and radiation treatment can often have a harmful effect on fertility, rendering many of these women menopausal.

• Women who are at risk of early menopause or who have a genetic disorder that could limit fertility (e.g. Turner syndrome).

• Couples who, for religious or ethical reasons, are opposed to freezing embryos that result from IVF treatments and are more comfortable with storing unfertilised eggs instead.

• Couples who have no sperm retrievable on the day of their egg collection.

Other instances where egg freezing may be beneficial are: • Donor cryo-banking - some women may wish to become “Clinic-recruited donors” and donate their eggs for use by other couples undergoing IVF treatment.

• To allow synchronisation of donor and recipient cycle, although the most common practice in this case is to freeze embryos.

Counselling We appreciate that for some patients the decision to have their eggs cryopreserved or to release cryopreserved eggs from storage may

Call 07 3865 6533

be a difficult one to make. The counselling staff at City Fertility Centre are available at any time to help couples make a decision about their treatment.

Costs We recommend that you see a City Fertility Centre specialist to discuss your treatment options.

Your fertility specialist will determine whether the current Medicare legislation will classify you as medically or socially infertile.

Medicare will only provide rebates for fertility treatment if you are deemed by your specialist doctor to be medically infertile. This will alter the out-of-pocket expenses of your treatment.

Where to Now? I want more information: • Contact our Fertility Advice Team or • Book a 15 minute nurse chat I’m ready to take the next step: • Book an appointment with us • Get a referral to City Fertility Centre from your GP Contact Us: • Call 1300 354 354 • Email contactus@cityfertility.com.au • Visit cityfertility.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 35

Real Estate Is Our World LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION • Family Home with fantastic location • 3 bedrooms with built-in wardrobes • 10,000L water tank • Open plan family room • Kitchen with brand new stove & double door fridge • Separate family, two way bathroom & separate toilet • Separate, air-conditioned formal lounge

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07 3865 4466 / 0419 775 416 36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

Whatever the world of legislation throws your way, our service will always have you in compliance and reduce your exposure to risk

boondall@globenetrealty.com.au www.indiantimes.com.au

Nothing is more costly to an Investment Portfolio than Property Manager turnover.

Our Senior Property Manager is also on theBoard of Directors

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Real Estate News

Is owning your own home still better than renting?

By Gagan Tandon - 0425 158 280 Smartline Personal Mortgage Advisors

THE most recent Census data shows that the number of Australians owning their own home (both with and without a mortgage) has declined slightly over the past five years. At the same time, the number of us renting has increased slightly. Currently, 30.9 per cent of Australians are renting, up from 29.6 per cent in 2011.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to look at these figures and the property values around the country (especially in places like Sydney where the median value is well over $1 million) and consider renting a more economical option.

But there are so many benefits to owning your own home that renting cannot provide.

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why you should consider putting your hard-earned savings towards a deposit instead.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got more flexibility to do what you want: Want to redo your kitchen floors? Renovate the bathroom? Convert the garage into a granny flat? If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re renting, these things are either not possible or require negotiating with your landlord to get their approval. All the decisions are in their hands, not yours.

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When you own your own home, you call the shots plus any home improvements you make will be increasing your equity.

Your money is going towards an asset When you rent, your money is going to your landlord. When you make mortgage repayments on a principal-and-interest loan, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re paying off some of the value of your home not someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mortgage!

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re putting your money towards what is perhaps your biggest asset your home. And, again, with every repayment you make, the more equity youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have, which you can use to fund renovations, buy a new car or go on that overseas trip.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got something thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yours The first two benefits are practical, but this last one is an emotional benefit. When you own your own home, you have a place to call your own. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a place where you cook, eat, drink, entertain, laugh and raise a family over the long-term. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll form a bigger attachment to a place that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve bought, as opposed to one that you could potentially need to move out of at any time.

This kind of security is important if you want to create stability for yourself and your children.

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Are you ready to stop paying off your landlordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mortgage and get started on the road to home ownership? Get in touch with your Smartline Adviser today.

Gagan deep Tandon 0425 158 280.

Email: gtandon@smartline.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 37

Real Estate News Two storey family home in quiet street Taigum THIS beautiful air-conditioned home features 4 double bedrooms with built-in wardrobes.

Separate toilet and family bathroom with bath, shower and heat lamp. The main bedroom has an ensuite, air-conditioning, walkin robe and natural ample light.

All within the downstairs living of the home, there is a separate formal lounge, spacious open plan family and dining room including ceiling fans and air-conditioning. Great kitchen with large breakfast bar, good pantry and plenty of bench space. Powder room and internal laundry.

Features: - Lovely internal stairs - New carpets, tiles & paint throughout

38 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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- Ducted vacuum - Excellent Entertainment area - Double lockup garage with remote control and internal access & backyard access - Security system & monitor - 3.5KW Solar Panels - 10,000L Water Tank - Brand new hot water system - Fully fenced backyard with side gate access on both sides of property Internal inspection will impress!

For inspection or more details, contact Usha Chandra (Globenet Realty) 0419 775 416

Call 07 3865 6533

Real Estate News Expansive 6-Bedroom Residence in the Prestigious Rochedale Estate

Welcome to a world of luxury and relaxation. Situated in the heart of the desired First Zone of Rochedale Estates, you will discover the abundant conveniences surrounding 21 Kate Circuit, Rochedale.

Your attention will be instantly drawn to the street appeal and the quality finishes of this BRAND NEW Hamptons inspired Clarendon built home. The generously sized home is positioned to maximize the unhindered North Eastern aspects of the 564m2 block.

You will note that the unwelcome conditions from the western winter winds and sweltering Brisbane sunsets are taken into consideration with the placement of the house to the adjacent property. This is done without compromising the stunning sunset views over Mount Gravatt and the city glimpses from the front verandah and rumpus room.

Your family will love the convenience of the playground, playing field and barbeque areas just across the road. Not to mention they will be able to take advantage of the walking and bike paths and the many facilities the Lifestyle Centre offers only a hundred or so meters away.

Stepping inside the front door, you will be in awe of the modern, grand interior and

open plan design. This house was certainly built with large family and opulence in mind. The colour palate and styling of the tiles, fittings, curtains, carpet and walls will suit the most discerning interior choices.

You will find several entertainment areas throughout the house, such as an ample dining room that radiates from the open plan kitchen, family room and the enticing alfresco area. The contemporary kitchen comes with Smeg cooking and Westinghouse appliances. The Butler’s Pantry has plenty of storage, including a plumbing outlet inside.

Perhaps you might want to watch your favorite sports with friends in the luxury of your own Home Theatre while the children can play in their own Rumpus zone upstairs.

The front Living room is large enough to turn into a comfortable zone to run a home business from, or it could be a music room with space for the grand piano, or perhaps you might want to spoil your family with a full sized billiard table!

This is a property worthy of its superior location within the estate. Rochedale Estates are situated with easy access to the Gateway Motorway, making trips to the city, airport, Gold and Sunshine Coasts more direct. Both

Carindale and Garden City Westfield Shopping Centers and a choice of top quality schools and churches of most denominations are just a short drive or bus ride away.

- Professionally landscaped with easy care, yet magnificent plant varieties; - Rendered block fencing with intercom at the front gate; - Triple stack automatic driveway gate; - Six Bedrooms – Three with built in robes and three with walk in wardrobes; - Four Bathrooms; - Two Powder rooms; - Home Theatre room; - Ducted air conditioning throughout; - Quality custom made curtains; - Ceiling fans in living room, outdoor entertainment areas and bedrooms; - Multiple upstairs and downstairs living rooms; - Large Tiled Alfresco area downstairs; - Tiled front verandahs on both levels; - Large Tiled parents retreat balcony offering permanent bushland views; - Large Ensuite with double sink, bath tub and separate toilet room; - His and Her walk in wardrobes in the master bedroom; - Storage rooms on both levels;

- 2.6 Meter high ceilings on ground floor, and 2.45 Meter high ceilings upstairs to maximize climate control; - 5000L Water tank with integrated pump; - Data points for high speed internet access via Telstra - Velocity are available in every bedroom and living room; Sale by Tender closing at 5pm on Friday 22nd September 2017 at 67 Springwood Road, Springwood.

Open Home 21 Kate Circuit, Rochedale Sat 09/09/17 - 1.00pm – 2.00pm Sat 16/09/17 - 1.00pm – 2.00pm

Contact: Mandeep Singh 0428 627 585 07 3340 4200

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ROBERTA WALKER 0421 953 944

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 39

Business Directory CARPENTRY SERVICES

FASHION OUTLETS

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

JEWELLER

For all 16 Vedic Sanskaar Sanskrit prayers: Hawans, Weddings, Death rites; new homes, anniversaries, birthdays etc Pandit Dr G A Tularam 0403 819 327 or email a.tularam@griffith.edu.au

Gandhi’s Carpentry Service SPECIALISING IN SMALL JOBS

Vinay Gandhi:

•Repair and Maintenance 0426 971 606 •Home improvements carindale@smith-sons.com.au •Decks & Patio •Any upgrades relating to your home QBCC Licence #1247710 •Electrical & Plumbing

CIVIL MARRIAGE CELEBRANT

TABLA LESSONS

Lekh Ram Sukh

Civil Marriage Celebrant, JP (Qual) Ph/Fax: (07) 5547 0081 - Mob: 0421 351 061 E: lekhramsukh@gmail.com

ENTERTAINMENT

HAIR & BEAUTY SERVICES

MORTGAGE ADVISERS

REAL ESTATE

Tabla Classes: internationally acclaimed Tabla player DHEERAJ SHRESTHA. Contact 0423 047 365.

Email tablaworkshop@hotmail.com or visit www.dheerajshrestha.com

TUTORING SERVICES

Private or group tuition level Y 1 – 12 all-year round in all subjects. For inquires contact ACADEMIC TUTORING & COACHING CENTRE on 31021888 or admin@atcctutoring.com.au or visit us on www.atcctutoring.com.au

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Business Directory SOLICITOR / MIGRATION AGENT

Classifieds....

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES

POSITION VACANT

Indian female Au pair desired to assist looking after a newborn and a 12 year old, both girls. Must hold drivers license and speak Hindi. Additional tasks may include light housekeeping, grocery runs and taking our family's beloved puppy to the doggy day care.

Term - at least 6 months. If interested - please email smackrani@hotmail.com or send a text to 0448440147. No phone calls please.

Please note: Location - Kuraby, Qld 4112

BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES

OCT 2017 (DIWALI ISSUE) DEADLINES 29 SEPTEMBER 2017 Email: sales@indiantimes.com.au

Editorial / Photo Submissions

Astrology Aries - March 21 - April 20

You will look for new ways to save money and enhance revenues. You will seek avenues of investment that can give you good returns. The stars will guide here. At the beginning, Mars shifts into Virgo in the 6th House. Saturn posited in the 9th House may disclose some promising opportunities that will bring job satisfaction as well lucrative income. Progressive forces will spur you ahead in the right direction and liven up your spirits.

Important Dates 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30

Taurus - April 21 - May 22

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Cancer - June 22 - July 22

Working to boost your career and your financial prospects will keep you engaged this month. You will want to take a few simple steps that will make you happier professionally and personally. You will be keen to draw up an action plan to improve your performance going forward. Good news here is about Mercury becoming direct in motion. This will activate progressive forces in your favour. You will be able to make intelligent moves to enhance your financial prospects. In the 2nd week, some issues in a close relationship may crop up. Important Dates 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 28, 29

Leo - July 23 - August 22

Money, you always hope you had a bit more, right? This month you’ll look for some simple, yet effective ways to earn extra. You will be keen to make some clever moves to push ahead your growth prospects.

Businessmen and professionals will try to seek high worth customers out of station to enhance opportunities and earnings. With Mercury direct in motion, you may just find luck around the corner. Important Dates 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 30

Money matters and your fluctuating fortunes will be your key concern in September. At the beginning, it is the movement of Mercury that influences your world. Mercury is linked to finances for your Sign. As it becomes direct in motion, it paves the way for increase in inflow of money. You will be ably assisted also by Mars here. Mars shifts into Virgo, the 2nd House from your Sign. Important Dates 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27

You will look for new avenues to invest to get superior returns. Risk free investment that will create quick momentum will be your goal. This seems possible at the beginning as there is no important planet in retrogression and time appears supportive for furthering development process. Another auspicious sign is Mercury becoming direct that will bolster progressive forces to work effectively. You will be preoccupied with work. Important Dates 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27

You will enthusiastically seek the path to wealth and prosperity. You are eager to build a strong and secure future for yourself and your family. You will try to remove all encumbrances that come in your way through hard work and perseverance. The beginning may be fraught with personal and incidental expenses as four planets are posited in the 12th House, but with Mercury becoming direct in motion you will be more in control of your money. Important Dates 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27,28

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21

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Virgo - August 23 - October 22

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Libra - September 23 - October 22

Mars and Venus in company of Rahu could present distractions as well as illusions. You will manage your expenses judiciously. Steer clear of legal issues. Those employed and looking for better prospects will be supported by current planetary position here.

Now is the time to look for something durable and rewarding. Over the 3rd week, the ruler of your Sign Venus shifts into Virgo, the 12th House to join company of Sun, Mars and Mercury. This gathering will give rise to a strong urge to execute your plans and accomplish your goals, forecasts Ganesha. Important Dates 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29

Scorpio - October 23 - Nov 21

You will spend a good part of your time this month, pushing for excellence in your field of activity. You may even deploy funds to achieve desired results. However, looking at the position of Saturn and Jupiter, it is not advisable to undertake any major financial ventures for the moment. Don’t worry, though. Important Dates 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28 29

Sagittarius - November 22 - Dec 22

This month you will focus on what you do best and keep developing. You will be determined to keep moving ahead and better your chances at your business, job, relationship or family matters. The stars look supportive at the beginning. Mercury becomes direct in motion.

This means the road forward is cleared at a major level, though the time still does not seem ripe to take the big plunge. There is influence of Mars to deal with. Important Dates 11, 12, 13, 18, 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27

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Capricorn - December 23 - Jan 30

You will be keen to innovate and experiment with new ideas to scale-up your prospects. Moon in Aquarius will prompt you to think of new schemes and proposals that help you see sunshine days. Here, you also have Mercury to help you. Mercury becoming direct in motion paves the way for lady luck to lend you a hand. However, be prepared for some boulders along the way. Important Dates 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28

Aquarius - January 21 - Feb 19

You’ll be eager to try out something new to make meaningful progress. You will eager to put your foot on the accelerator and race ahead. Mercury becoming direct in motion heralds good news. Those in business may find the going smooth to speed up development process and expand base. Important Dates 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 30

Pisces - February 20 - March 20

You will be determined to increase productivity to move towards your goal. You will work on an effective road map, some winning strategies and relentless commitment to fulfill your accomplishments. Well, just these are not enough. You need benevolent stars also on your side for full realization of your dreams. Unfortunately, not everything appears encouraging this month. Important Dates 13, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 41

WHATÊS ON!

On now until – Oct 22 2017...

BSK 5th Annual Cricket Cup – All Sunday games – held at Mansfield, Balmoral, Tingalpa, CJ Greenfield, Wolston Park and Redbank Plains. For information email brisbanesuperkings@gmail.com or follow on Facebook

9 September 2017...

Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre Project proudly presents A Grand Musical Evening – 5:30pm at Runcorn State School, 200 Nemies Road, Runcorn. Featuring live Bollywood music by talented local artists Vijen, Sharad, Subrato, Suhas, Raghu, Raj, Mithun, Manpreet, Anup, Ashwini, Charu, Binny, Bondita and child artist Rugved. Followed by mouth-watering dinner. Tickets $30. Contact Jitendra Deo 0411 798 012 or Sandeep Kumar 0451 569 712

Rotary Club of Brisbane International presents Rotary Bollywood Ball – 6:30pm at Sacred Heart Centre (80 Nemies Road, Runcorn). Featuring DJ Desi – Brisbane’s Premier Bollywood DJ, together with other live acts and Bollywood Dancers. Tickets: Adult $50 / 7-15 years $20 / under 7’s Free / includes buffet dinner and dessert. Details Raj 0434023240 / Madhuri 0431929583 / Sarwesh 0412739129 / Jitendra 0402422777

6th Australian International Hindu Conference – 9am to 4:30pm at Adelaide Convention Centre North Terrace, Adelaide.

Strengthening communities – Stronger Australia. For more information contact conference2017@vhpsa.org.au or call 0416 650 525 – www.vhp.org.au

Brisbane Tamil School’s 32nd Annual Cultural Concert – 5:15pm at Indooroopilly State High School, Corner of Ward Street and Turner Street, Indooroopilly. Tickets $25 Family / $10 Single / Pensioner. Dinner will be sold at a minimal price. For more details contact Ramanan 0435 602 864 or Sangeetha 0401 074 738

Gold Coast celebrates Navarathri 14 September 2017...

Victoria & Abdul in Cinemas – refer to page 49

16 September 2017...

Eswaralaya Kalaikoodam proudly presents “An evening of Indian Classical Dance” Bharatanatyam Concert – 6pm at St. John Anglican College, Forest Lake. For more information call Smt. Manga Surendran 0433 967 489 / email manga.suren@gmail.com or follow on Facebook Indian Classical Dance Brisbane

Fundraising Dinner for Orissa State – 5:30pm at Gateway Baptist Church Function Room, 1052 Mt Gravatt Capalaba Road, Mackenzie. Cost: By donation. Enquiries Vincent 0424396096

The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) proudly presents their annual cultural event.

The Navarathri Festival will showcase performances by various artists in South East Queensland.

Da 23rd Se Date: Dat Septemb Septem Septe Sept Sep September 2 201 2017 20 ((Saturday) (Sa (Sat (Satur (Saturd (Saturda (Saturday Tim T Time: i 6: -8:0 6:006:00 6:0 8:00p followed 8:00pm ffol fo by b free ffre fr dinner di din d Nerang Ne Nera Ner Bicentennial Bicenten B Bi Bic Bicent Community C Co Com Comm Commun Communit Ce Cen Cent Centre C (8 (833 (83 Ve Venue: Ven So SouthportSouthport Southp Sou -Nerang Ner R Ro Roa Road Road, Ne Ner Nerang) N Please reserve a free ticket using the link below: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-gold-coast-hinducultural-association-navaratri-festival-2017-tickets37151465032 In support of this event, please make a donation via http://culture.goldcoasthindu.org/donations/ Suggested donation $10 per person

18 September 2017...

FREE Course – Certificate 2 in Individual Support – Course held at Zillmere Community Centre, refer to flyer on page 34 21 September 2017...

Mental Health First Aid Course (FREE of Charge) at Access! – Register your interest to attend a Mental Health Aid Course at Access! Course participants learn about signs and symptoms of the common and disabling mental health problems, where and how go get help when someone is developing a mental illness, what sort of help has been shown by research to be effective, and how to provide first aid in a crisis situation.

Spots will be limited! Register your interest at caitlin.boydford@harmonyplace.org.au

21-29 September 2017...

Vedanta Centre of Sydney – Brisbane Chapter – Sri Durga Ashtami Puja – the worship of Mother Durga on the occasion of Sri Durga Ashtami Puja will be performed on Wed 28 Sept (7-8pm), you and Continued page 44

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

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Brisbane Indian Times October Diwali Bumper Issue Book your Diwali greeting now....special rates Association / Non Profit Organisations. (29 Sept booking deadline) Email prod@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3865 6533

QU QUEENSLAN QUEEN QUEENSLAND VEDI VEDIC VED CULTURAL C CU CUL CULTU CULTURA C CEN CENTRE PRO PROJ PROJEC PROJECT PROUDLY PRESENTS

On 9th September, 2017 at 5:30 pm

Venue: Runcorn State School, 200 Nemies Road

Featuring Live Bollywood music by talented local artists

Vijen, Sharad, Subrato, Suhas, Raghu, Raj, Mithun, Manpreet, Anup, Ashwini, Charu, Binny, Bondita and child artist Rugved.

Followed by mouth watering Dinner...

Tickets: $30

Contact: Jitendra Deo - 0411 798 012,

Sandeep Kumar - 0451 569 712

ARYA PRATINIDHI SABHA OF QUEENSLAND

Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 43

WHATÊS ON!

Continued from page 42

your family and friends are cordially invited to attend the worship and receive the grace of the Divine Mother. Sri Durga Saptashati (Chandni) will be recited from 21 Sept to 29 Sept from 5:30am to 7:30pm at 12 Greenwood Street, Springfield Lakes.

For more information visit www.vedantabrisbane.org or email info@vedantabrisbane.org

Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir – Grand Navaratri Celebration – 86 Scotts Lane, North Maclean. Everyone please come and join in this Navaratri celebration. Mata Ki Chowki on both Fridays, Saturday and Sunday. Sunday – Hawan at 4pm and Chowki also begins at 4pm. Chowki sponsor – $500, Hawan Sponsor $111 & Food Sponsor $401. Friday 29 Sept: Chowki, Grand Kanchaka Poojan and Garba – Food (Maha Prasad) will be provided every evening.

Special Navaratari Bhog. Contact Devika Maharaj 0424891159 /Dhiru Desai 0406213153 / Bharat Solanki 0411131485 / Rajesh Gopal 0422344048 or Jyoti Womens Club / For secured online donation facility visit www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au

Gayatri Mandir (HSQ) Navratri Celebration – 6:30pm – 8:30pm at 178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall. Garba dance followed by dinner every night. For enquires please contact: Daven Pathik 0431 213 444 / Prem Chand 0423 375 276 / www.gayatrimandir.org.au / or follow on Facebook

23 September 2017...

Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Assn.

(GCHCA) Navarathri Festival – 6pm at Nerang Bicentennial Community Centre, 833 Nerang Road, Nerang. The Navarathi Festival will showcase performances by various artists in South East Queensland.

This is the fifth Navarathri celebration GCHCA has hosted since its inception in

2012. To sponsor, please contact ghcan@gmail.com Please reserve ticket using Eventbrite.com.au

30 September – 2 October 2017...

International Veterans Soccer Tournament – Meera Sami Memorial Cup – Ireland Park, Liverpool, Sydney. Registration and information email austfiji.ifa@gmail.com

30 September 2017...

Gayatri Mandir (HSQ) Happy Dusshera – 2pm at 178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall.

Entertainment and refreshments. All are Welcome! For enquires please contact: Daven Pathik 0431 213 444 / Prem Chand 0423 375 276 / www.gayatrimandir.org.au / or follow on Facebook

1 October 2017...

Gayatri Mandir (HSQ) 108 Maha Chandi Yagna – 9am at Bracken Ridge Rd, Bracken Ridge. $108 per family, includes everything. Just bring your mat. Free lunch and refreshments provided. Book your Kund now! For enquires please contact: Daven Pathik 0431 213 444 / Prem Chand 0423 375 276 / www.gayatrimandir.org.au / or follow on Facebook

6 October 2017...

FICQ Diwali 2017 – The Indian Festival of Lights – A day stacked with non-stop entertainment, music, dance, Bollywood, henna, Indian and multicultural food, arts and crafts.

From 10am to 10pm at King George Square, Brisbane CBD. Visit www.ficq.org.au for more information 13 October 2017...

IABCA – India Australia Business & Community Awards – Black Tie Gala event at Brisbane City Hall. Limited tickets on sale visit www.iabca.com.au

14 October 2017...

Gayatri Mandir (HSQ) 2017 Diwali

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

Dhamaka 2017 – 6pm at Bracken Ridge State High School. For more information contact Prem Chand premchand1902@gmail.com or visit www.hindusociety.qld.org.au Tamil Association of Qld Inc proudly presents Deepavali 2017 – Festival of Lights – Mark the date….more details to follow. Venue: Australian Islamic college, Durack. For more information contact 0424 046 696 or email tamilassnqld@gmail.com

Queensland Telugu Association (QTA) invites you to Dussehra, Deepawali & Christmas Celebrations – 5pm onwards at Coorparoo Secondary College. This year program will be a great fusion of Dance, music, skits and much more by local artists.

For enquiries please contact 0424745678 / 0412112313 / 0423499742

29 October 2017...

Gandhi Salt March Limited (an Australian Registered Charity) presents… .Power of Peace Festival, Ipswich & Brisbane – The Power of Peace Festival is a community event inspired by Mahatma Gandhi to promote the Gandhi ideals of nonviolence, sustainability and inclusiveness.

For more information email info@powerofpeacefestival.org / www.powerofpeacefestival.org or follow on facebook facebook.com/powerofpeacefestival

Weekly Events...

Mondays…

Brahma Kumaris Australia – Meditation & Positive Thinking Sessions – Mondays 10.30am to 11.30am: Regular meditation should improve your ability to focus and think clearly. By practising mediations which cultivate our ability to sense and care for our natural energy we are able to live life with greater awareness and confidence. Each class includes guided meditations, discussions, short talks and the introduction and practice of techniques. Each session is a different topic. Meditation sessions Tuesdays 6.30pm to 7.30 pm and Sundays 5.30pm to 6.30pm. During these sessions there will be

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meditation commentaries, music and periods of silence. You can come and go at any time during these sessions. Venue: 27 Bordeaux Parade, Mermaid Waters. Please phone to register – 5575 2126.

Email goldcoast@au.brahmakumaris.org or visit www.brahmakumaris.org/au/whatson for more information

Brisbane Good Samaritan Prayer Fellowship (Malayam Service) – Congregation on every Sunday from 10am to 12pm at Stafford Scouts, 38 Appleby Road, Stafford, Qld 4053. For further information contact 0468 358 646 or 0411 269 322. Come and hear the message of your eternal life, GOD BLESS

Picabeen Community Centre – you’re invited to playgroup! – For parents with children aged 0-5 years from all cultures and backgrounds. Come along and meet families from all backgrounds in your community.

Every Monday (Except public holidays) 10am – 12pm. Picabeen Community Centre, 22 Hoben Street, Mitchelton Qld. Phone 3354 2555

Zi Za Dong Zen Association – Energy Healing to improve health and well beings – ZZDZ Assn. Inc is a not for profit charity foundation based in Brisbane. Focusing on energy healing named Qi Gong through meditation, it provides free energy healing sessions and guidance. Practicing Qi Gong will encourage you to achieve a positive outlook on life, by helping to reduce stress and calm your mind. It also increases vitality, enhances your immune system and helps to eliminate negative attitudes and behaviours. Session Times & Locations: Mondays-Thursday & Saturday 9am – 12pm at 10 Cognac Court, Calamvale. Thursday afternoon (except 1st week) 3.30pm – 6pm at Sunnybank Hills Shoppingtown Library. 67 Level 2, Cnr Calam & Compton Road. Friday afternoon 2pm-5pm at Logan West Library – 69 Grand Plaza Drive, Brown Plains. For more information email zzdz.aus@gmail.com or visit www.zzdz.org.au Continued page 46

Call 07 3865 6533

Call 07 3865 6533

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 45

WHATÊS ON!

Continued from page 44

Wednesdays…

Brisbane Good Samaritan Prayer Fellowship (Malayam Service) – Cottage Meeting on every Wednesday from 6.30pm to 8pm at Stafford Scouts, 38 Appleby Road, Stafford, Qld 4053. For further information contact 0468 358 646 or 0411 269 322. Come and hear the message of your eternal life, GOD BLESS

The Mantra Room – Live Kirtan – Spend an evening of sacred Yoga chant with Gayatri, Ishvara, Jayadharma and friends Fridays 6pm, Sundays 5pm and Wednesdays 7pm at Australian School of Meditation & Yoga, 236 Montague Road, West End. Amazing Vego Food $5. Come celebrate, meditate and let the music set you free. For more information call 3844 8441 or email brisbane@asm.org.au

Thursdays…

Sai Baba Aarti Program – Every Thursday 7.30pm – Virginia State School, 1678 Sandgate Road, Virginia (next to Virginia Train Station) Aarti & Archana opportunity for all attendees, Prasad & Dinner provided.

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

Sundays…

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc – Vedic Yaj (Havan) –The Sabha performs Havan Yaj every Sunday from 2-4pm at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre, 198 Learoyd Rd, Willawong and the public is welcome to be part of it. The members of public now can perform Havan Yaj at the centre. The fee of $50 is required for use of centre facilities to cover operating costs. The Havan Kund, utensils are available for use as well The Havan ingredients can be supplied if you are unable to get them. Mango sticks, Ghee, Samagri, Chamfor etc is available at the centre as well for $25. The seating capacity of the Yajshalla (Havan Hall) is 100. Contact Vice President Mrs Sushila Pathik for further information and bookings on 3314 6059.

Contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or visit www.aryasamajqueensland.com for further information.

COMING EVENTS FOR HINDU SOCIETY Australian Pentecostal Assembly Brisbane – Sunday Worship every Sunday 9am11.30am at 84 The Community Place, 84 Kedron Park Road, Wooloowin Qld with Pastor Prakash Jacob. Cottage Meeting every Tuesday 7.30pm-9pm / Kids Bible Study every Friday 7pm-7.45pm / Intercessory Prayer every Friday 7.45-9pm. Worship in Hindi, English, Malayalam and other Indian Languages. For more information Phone 07 3315 5597 / 0413 347 562 or email info@apabrisbane.com.au / www.apabrisbane.com.au

Bala Samskar Kendra – Hindu Scripture Classes for Children – The aim of Bala Samskar Kendra (BSK) is to provide an opportunity to the children to learn about rich Hindu culture through value based education from various Hindu scriptures and let them gain self-confidence and grow up in to individuals who are proud of their tradition.

Every Sunday 2:30pm-5pm at Sunnybank State High School, Sunnybank (use Turton Street entrance).

Contact bskqld@live.com.au / Hari 0411 137 396 / Krrishna 0411 776 509 / Ram 0416 813 747 Brisbane Multinational Church Service – Every Sunday 9.30am at 757 Gympie Road Lawnton. Come and join us for a great time of Praise and Worship plus inspired preaching of God’s word. We thrive for the presence of God and are passionate to see people be trained up and grow in the knowledge of the word of God. Special service time to pray for healing, deliverance and other spiritual needs. Enquiries 0424 1802 40.

Star Christian Church – Clontarf Beach State School Hall. Every Sunday – Morning Service at 9.30am. Evening Service at 5pm.

Come fired up and expectant! Star Church is a great, young church located on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula. A Pentecostal community connected with the Australian Christian Churches. We passionately want God’s presence in our lives, desire to be trained and knowledgeable in His Word, hungry for the supernatural, excelling in our service and hospitable at life. For more information visit www.starchurch.org.au

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

1. Nav Raatri Durga Naumi) 21 to 29 September 2017 from 6:30pm everyday by Acharya Nandlal Shastri from India.

2. Dassehra (Vijayaa Dashmi) Saturday 30 September 2017 from 2:00pm 3. 108 (Kunds) Hawan Yagna at 373 Bracken Ridge by Nandlal Shastri from India. From 9:00am Everything supplied. Just bring your mats.

Cost ONLY $108 per family of 4.

Monthly Events...

Hindu Cultural Hub (HCB) at Clayfield – Monthly Cultural congregation – Bar-Jai Community Hall, 178 Alexandra Road, Clayfield Qld 4011. Pooja by Hindu Priest, Bajan and Kirtan by devotees, monthly religious updates / guest speakers on spiritual (or) yoga techniques. Prasatham with vegetarian dinner served. For more details contact 0469 016 416 or visit www.hinduculturalhub.org The John Oxley District Orchid Society – Meeting – We pride ourselves on being a friendly Society and new members and guests are always welcome at our meetings held on the second Wednesday of each month starting at 7.30pm. Venue is Oxley Bowls Club, 24-30 Englefield Road, Oxley.

Please contact Sonia Addison 3277 5825 or jodos-inc@hotmail.com for more information

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 Organization of Hindu Malayalees Queensland (OHM Queensland) – Monthly Bhajans held every first Saturday of Malayalam calendar. Activities include Bhajans, Malayalam Class, Library service, religious short educational presentations, vegetarian dinner etc. For further informa-

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Donors of Food welcomed. Contact President.

4. Diwali (Festival of Lights) Celebrations – Saturday 14 October 2017 from 5:30pm at Bracken Ridge State High School 6. Ram Kath 3days - 30 November to 2 December 2017 from 6:30pm everyday at Swami from India. Sponsored by Dirend Narayan & Family Prem Chand – 16 August 2017

tion please contact President Krishnan AK on 0418 727 570 or ohmqueensland@gmail.com

Shirdi Sai Sansthan Brisbane Ltd – Shirdi Saibaba Bhajans and Aaratis – last Saturday every month. 5.30pm at Runcorn Heights State School, 200 Nemies Road, Runcorn Qld 4113. Dhoop Aarati, Bhajans, Ashtotaram, Shej Aarati and Mahaprasad at 7.40pm. For more details contact 0416 813 747 or 0479 143 724 – visit www.shirdisaibrisbane.org or follow on facebook Shirdi sai baba Brisbane

Mata Amritananadamayi Centre- Brisbane: Regular Satsangs are held at 32 Burnside Crescent, Westlake on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month at 4 pm. Spiritual chanting, singing, reading and Arati are followed by a prasad meal. Sri Lalitha Sahasranamavali chanting takes place at the Sri Selva Vinayakar Kovil at South Maclean on the 3rd Sunday of each month at 10:30 am.

Register your interest for IAM Meditation courses. www.ammaaustralia.org.au; facebook: Amma Brisbane Satsang. Contact: brisbane@ammaaustralia.org.au; ph: 07 3715 8278 Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) Brisbane (South Maclean) – For full list of upcoming events please visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org

Yoga in Daily Life – Satsang and Full Moon Meditation – Satsang every last Saturday of the Month from 5-7pm with Rajastani Bhajans, meditation & Prasad.

Purnima Full Moon Meditation from 7:45pm - 8:30pm (see our website for dates). Regular daily Yoga & Meditation Classes. Shiv Mandir is open daily for Darsan. Website: yidlbris.org, Email: brisbane@yogaindailylife.org

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 47

Bollywood & Entertainment

Alia-Shah Rukh, KanganaSaif: Bollywood's 'mismatched' pairings

• Anthony Shiner, Executive Director, Telstra Digital presents prizes to winners.

Telstra Bollywood Dance Competition 2017 dazzles Melbourne MONDAY 14 August, 2017: The Telstra Bollywood Dance Competition (TBDC), a signature event of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), returned to Melbourne’s Federation Square over the weekend 12-13 August) with Bollywood celebrity judges and dance performances from 22 dance groups.

This year Telstra live-streamed the event for the first time ever, over Australia’s best mobile network. The link is on the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne’s Facebook page.

Anthony Shiner, Executive Director, Telstra Digital said Telstra was thrilled to be able to livestream the event so more fans could join in from around the world.

“Telstra’s mobile network is making it easier for Bollywood fans in Australia to connect to the content they love.”

The competition kicked off after stunning Bollywood and Hollywood megastar Aishwarya Rai became the first Indian woman to hoist the Indian Flag for India Independence Day at Fed Square.

Celebrity judges included Bollywood actress, dancer and model Malaika Arora, Bollywood director Karan Johar (known as KJo) and award-winning actor Sushant Singh Rajput. The winners who each received $1,000 prizes courtesy of Telstra were: * Telstra’s People Choice Award Winner – Adelaide Agni * Pre-Teens Dance Winner – JJ Group * Adult Dance Winner – Ranjhe Bhangra When asked what he would do with the prize money from Telstra, a member of JJ Group promised that he would buy ‘sensible things’, much to the crowd’s amusement and delight.

Malaika Arora said, “I can really see that the Telstra Bollywood Dance Competition competitors have grown in confidence and skill this year. Everyone is doing a fantastic job.

It is undoubtedly this love that draws me back to Melbourne year after year. I want to say to Telstra – dance is the best form of expression. It is like body language.”

Mr Shiner said it was an honour for Telstra to support the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and the Telstra Bollywood Dance

• Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan will act opposite each other in director Gauri Shinde’s next.

• Aishwarya Rai in crowd.

Competition for the fifth year in a row.

“This year, we were particularly impressed with the talent of dance performers and excited that Telstra could join in the magic of Bollywood by supporting this event,” he said.

During this year’s TBDC, over 3,500 SMS votes were cast and, courtesy of Telstra, one lucky SMS voter was picked from the crowd to meet celebrity judge Malaika Arora. The winner also won a Telstra TV and will be able to stream their favourite entertainment to the big screen, including premium South Asian content provider YUPPTV, using a Telstra internet connection.

Other notable appearances included veteran Bollywood actress Simi Garewal, director, producer and actor Satish Kaushik and His Excellency, Dr A.M Gondane, the Indian High Commissioner to Australia, and City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle AC among others.

The Telstra Bollywood Dance Competition features dance performers wearing vibrant colours and traditional South Asian and Bollywood inspired costumes, captivating the audiences. Competitors were judged on choreography, technique, costumes, music and props.

Watch the Telstra Bollywood Dance Competition video:www.facebook.com/ IndianFilmFestivalOfMelbourne/videos/ 1582760705136474/

AN unconventional pairing gets people talking, but does it also affect BO collection? We check this out as Shah Rukh Khan stars opposite a much younger Alia Bhatt and parallel cinema's favourite Irrfan Khan is cast opposite Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Alia Bhatt has always considered Shah Rukh Khan “very charismatic”. So, last month, when she was roped in to act opposite SRK in director Gauri Shinde’s next, it was a dream come true for Alia. But soon after the news came out, naysayers raised eyebrows at their unconventional pairing. At that time, Alia had told us, “I’ll stay quiet. I’ll let the film do the talking.”

Instances galore Gauri’s film is not alone. Several other movies are exploring such unusual casting options.

While Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will be seen with Irrfan Khan in Sanjay Gupta’s next, Akshay Kumar has been paired opposite Nimrat Kaur in Airlift. TV actor Sakshi Tanwar has been cast opposite Aamir Khan in his next while Kangana Ranaut is set to work with Saif Ali Khan and Shahid Kapoor in Vishal Bhardwaj’s next.

When I was casting (for my film), I just wanted to surround Ash with as many talented actors as possible. What matters is the film’s strength,” says Sanjay.

• TV actor Sakshi Tanwar has been cast opposite Aamir Khan in his next.

Litmus test Interestingly, even actors are kicked about such experiments. “One of my biggest reasons for doing the film was Aishwarya. I was looking forward to working with her. I am okay with being sidelined,” says Irrfan.

• Akshay Kumar has been paired opposite Nimrat Kaur in Airlift.

• Kangana is set to work with Saif and Shahid in Vishal Bhardwaj’s next.

Kareena Kapoor Khan will share screen space with Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh in Abhishek Chaubey’s forthcoming directorial venture.

While such unusual pairings get people talking, do they also affect box-office collections?

“Not really. They add to the curiosity level.

Experts say that casting should do justice to the essence of a film. “Unusual or not, casting must be true, in spirit, to the storyline. For audiences, too, what matters is the ultimate presentation. Look at Cheeni Kum (2007), Amitabh Bachchan’s casting with Tabu turned out to be a masterstroke that could have looked bizarre initially,” says exhibitor-distributor Akshaye Rathi.

Hema Malini becomes Bollywood ‘Cultural Ambassador’ like Raj Kapoor!

• Hemaji with Sukhishvelli presenter.

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

RAJ Kapoor became a cultural icon in Russia as he bridged the 2 countries with his stardom; He had also visited Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia in 1954 and invited the National Ballet of Georgia, SUKHISHVILI, to perform in India during Jawaharlal Nehru reign, even celebrating HOLI with them at R K Studios!

All time ‘Dream Girl’ of Bollywood continues the same spirit of the ‘Soft Power’ of Bollywood, and has invited SUKHISHVLI to India again after 50 years. Hema Malini now presents ‘SYNERGY’ – An IndoGeorgian dance fusion, SUKHISHVILI & Indian Dance Ensemble, will be a cultural Odyssey that will expose the world to 2 ancient cultures, India & Georgia, giving a platform to showcase www.indiantimes.com.au

their talent.

The performance will be held in September in the 4 major cities Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata & Chennai, which will be attended by the A-list celebrities of Bollywood, Politicians, Industrialists and stalwarts from the Arts and Culture!

Hema Malini has always been in the forefront of Indian art and culture, a true karma yogi, and strongest believer in ‘Sa Prathama Sanskrati Vishvavara”, which means the first and supreme culture of the World.

She quotes “I am proud of Indian supreme culture, the pinnacle of human civilization, where dance, music, drama and theatre form the basis of performing arts and a part of the rich cultural heritage of our

motherland. Our classical literature, religion and mythology is the fulcrum, the foundation of these performing arts” She adds “This year we are proud to associates with another rich ancient culture of GEORGIA, to create a fusion, a SYNERGY. We intend to grow every year under JAYASMRITI, and have such wonderful collaborations with different countries.

India is so culturally rich, a golden bowl of culture and heritage and I want to safe guard our culture, and spread it across the world” No wonder looking at her contribution, service and mission like zeal to Indian culture and dance, Hema Malini is virtually considered as the uncrowned cultural ambassador of India!

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Bollywood & Entertainment

Mind Blowing Films Super-fun September Mind blowing Films hopes you are ready for a super-fun September with exciting new releases coming your way!

YBrjw0dj8Kg Synopsis: The story is set in the backdrop of a jail, with music at its core. Walls might muffle them but cages only reverberate them louder. Situated deep in the heartland of India, within the by-lanes of Lucknow is

SIMRAN

Release: 15th September 2017 story of a man who had something to say.

Starring: Kangana Ranaut Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Director: Hansal Mehta Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= YBrjw0dj8Kg Synopsis: A Gujarati housekeeping lady in the US allows ambition to get the better of her & gets involved in a world of crime. Simran is a racy, fun film with Kangana Ranaut playing the titular role.

LUCKNOW CENTRAL

Release: 15th September 2017 Starring: Farhan Akhtar and Diana Penty Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Director: Nikhil Advani Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=

JUDWAA 2

Release: 29th September 2017 Starring: Varun Dhawan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Anupam Kher Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Director: David Dhawan Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= DDwbjWCgxVM Synopsis: Judwaa 2 is an upcoming Indian Hindi action-comedy film directed by David Dhawan, starring Varun Dhawan in a double role as estranged twins opposite Jacqueline Fernandez and Taapsee Pannu. It is currently scheduled for release on 29 September 2017.It is a sequel to David Dhawan’s 1997 film Judwaa.

For all the latest releases screening dates visit

www.mindblowingfilms.com

VICTORIA & ABDUL in Cinemas September 14 THE extraordinary true story of an unexpected friendship in the later years of Queen Victoria’s (Academy Award Winner Judi Dench) remarkable rule. When Abdul Karim (Ali Fazal), a young clerk, travels from India to participate in the Queen’s Jubilee, he is surprised to find favour with the Queen herself. As the Queen questions the constrictions Call 07 3865 6533

of her long-held position, the two forge an unlikely and devoted alliance with a loyalty to one another that her household and inner circle all attempt to destroy. As the friendship deepens, the Queen begins to see a changing world through new eyes and joyfully reclaims her humanity. www.victoriaandabdul.com.au www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017 — 49

Sports News Indian cricket team to tour England in 2018 for Test and limited-overs series

‘Lionel Messi’s four-year contract extension signed by player’s agent, father’ • Indian cricket team’s tour of England will begin with a T20 series in July 2018.(Getty Images)

ENGLAND will host Indian cricket team in a five-match Test series in 2018, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Tuesday 5 September.

The teams will play three Twenty20 matches in July, followed by three one-day internationals and then Tests at Edgbaston, Lord’s, Trent Bridge, the Rose Bowl and The Oval.

England’s schedule for the year also includes meetings with Pakistan, Australia and Scotland.

“A five-Test series against India is at the heart of next summer’s international programme,” said ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison in a press release.

“This is always a much-anticipated contest which attracts a huge following across the globe for the five-day game.

“Test match cricket has a strong, consistent and passionate following across England and Wales and the seven summer Tests, starting with the Pakistan matches, are sure to attract good crowds.

“Alongside these, England’s white-ball contests against India, Australia and Scotland will give a fascinating guide to form ahead

of the ICC Cricket World Cup, to be staged here in 2019.”

It will be only the second time India, the world’s number one Test side, play a fiveTest series in England since 1959.

England’s summer will begin in May with two Tests against Pakistan at Lord’s and Headingley.

They have a one-off one-day game against Scotland in Edinburgh on June 10, followed by five one-day internationals and a T20 match against Australia later that month.

England’s other series: Pakistan May 24-28: 1st Test, Lord’s June 1-5: 2nd Test, Headingley Scotland June 10: ODI, Edinburgh Australia June 13: 1st ODI, The Oval June 16: 2nd ODI, Sophia Gardens June 19: 3rd ODI, Trent Bridge June 21: 4th ODI, Chester-le-Street June 24: 5th ODI, Old Trafford June 27: T20, Edgbaston HT

Gautam Gambhir to help slain Kashmiri cop’s daughter Zohra live life’s dreams CRICKETER Gautam Gambhir on Tuesday 5 September said that he will support for life the educational expenses of Zohra, the five-yearold daughter of a policeman killed by militants in August.

“Zohra,I can’t put u 2 sleep wid a lullaby but I’ll help u 2 wake up 2 live ur dreams. Will support ur education 4 lifetime #daughterofIndia,” the cricketer tweeted.

In his next tweet, Gautam Gambhir said, “Zohra,plz don’t let those tears fall as i doubt even Mother Earth can take d weight of ur pain.

Salutes to ur martyred dad ASI,Abdul Rashid.”

Zohra has been prompt in acknowledging Gambhir’s heartwarming gesture.

“Thank you, Gautam Sir, me and my family are very happy with your gesture, I want to become a doctor,” wrote Zohra.

On August 28,Abdul Rashid, an assistant sub-inspector of JammuKashmir police, was gunned down by militants in the south Kashmir town of Anantnag.

BARCELONA’s under-fire president Josep Maria Bartomeu launched a counter-attack on his critics on Tuesday 5 September by insisting a four-year contract extension for Lionel Messi has been signed by the player’s agent and father, Jorge Horacio Messi.

Barcelona announced an agreement with the five-time World Player of the Year in July, but Messi himself is yet to put pen to paper amid rumours he is unhappy with the running of the club.

Messi’s current deal expires in 2018 meaning he could leave Barca for free next summer.

“It is all agreed and signed,” said Bartomeu in an interview with Barcelona-based daily Sport.

“There are three contracts: one with Messi’s foundation, that is signed by the president of the foundation and the player’s brother; a contract with Leo Messi’s image rights, that his father and administrator of his company have signed; and the work contract that Leo’s father has signed.”

When pressed on the delay in Messi signing the deal, Bartomeu claimed both the player and club’s hectic start to the season was to blame and that it would be resolved within a month.

“There are no problems. All that is left is the protocol of the signature. We are calm,” he added.

Bartomeu and his board have received fierce criticism for their handling of the recently closed transfer window as Paris Saint-Germain enticed Neymar away from the Catalan giants for a world record 222 million euros ($263.7 million).

A vote of no confidence motion has been launched by former Barca presidential can-

didate Agusti Benedito that could oust Bartomeu if it receives enough support from the club’s members in the coming weeks.

However, Bartomeu described the loss of the Brazilian as an “opportunity” for Barca to build their team around the midfield rather than a superstar front three of Neymar, Messi and Luis Suarez.

“The trident was very good but it had its consequences. It is an opportunity to return to the collective football in the middle of the field, which traditionally was Barca’s strength.

“It is an opportunity, with a new coach, a new project. We need to stop being pessimistic!”

Neymar’s departure sparked a haphazard shopping spree from Barca, who landed 20year-old French winger Ousmane Dembele for an initial 105 million euro fee from Borussia Dortmund and Paulinho for 40 million from Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande.

However, Barca missed out on a host of other targets, including Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho, blaming the rampant inflation in the transfer market caused by PSG and Abu Dhabi-backed Manchester City.

La Liga has asked UEFA to investigate both PSG and City for breaches of financial fair play rules.

“Qatar and Abu Dhabi are two countries that have two clubs,” added Bartomeu.

“If Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Real Madrid or Arsenal buy a player from you, you know (the money) comes from football.

“But these two clubs distort the market.”

HT morning, her photos went viral on social media.

Gautam Gambhir remains an active cricketer. Pushing 36, the lefthanded Delhi batsman last played -- a Test match against England at Rajkot -- for India in November 2016. He captained Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2017 Indian Premier League.

The Gautam Gambhir Foundation is actively involved in charity work. The cricketer recently launched a free community kitchen in West Delhi.

• Indian cricket team’s tour of England will begin with a T20 series in July 2018.(Getty Images)

At the wreath-laying ceremony held for Abdul Rashid at the district police lines in Srinagar that

50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2017

evening, his daughter broke down uncontrollably.

Press photographers captured that www.indiantimes.com.au

heart-wrenching moment – Zohra, dressed in her school uniform, crying inconsolably. By Tuesday

Gambhir is spontaneous in reacting to social issues. The recent deaths of children in Gorakhpur had hurt the cricketer tremendously.

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