Brisbane Indian Times December 2023 Edition - Christmas Special

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

Print Post Approved PP : 424022 1724 | ISSN 2652-6182

Volume 20, Number 4 Saturday, December 9th, 2023

As God is One, we respect all Religions

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BAPS Diwali and Annakut AIR PAK celebrated in Queensland Excess Baggage Services Parliament house

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Customs Facilitation Fiji Freight Specialist (Sea & Air) BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple, Kingston hosted the Diwali & Annakut celebration at the Queensland Parliament on Wednesday, 29th November. The significant event has now become a popular celebration at Queensland Parliament house.

The event was a great success with the blessing of HDH Mahant Swami Maharaj and dedication and devotion of the BAPS volunteers.

The main attendees were The Premier – Annastacia Palaszczuk, Hon. Speaker – Curtis Pitt MP, Hon. Treasurer – Cameron Dick MP, CONTD. ON PG 10

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Inside

• Local News ..................................4-37 • Real Estate ................................12-15 • wwww ...................................... 26-27 • India News ..................................... 38 • Fiji News ......................................... 40 • Entertainment .............................. 42 • Health & Well Being .................... 44 • Business Directory/Classified ... 47 • Sports News ................................... 48

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh Chandra OAM & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: 0430 193 715 sales@indiantimes.com.au JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS • Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) • Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) • Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) • Rama Gaind (Canberra) • Ml. Nawaaz Ashrafi • Imam Muhammad Aslam • Pastor Joseph Dass • Haji Abdul Rahman Deen • Jitendra Deo • Nimisha Modi • Ranjita Pillai (Immigration Matters) • Peter Lane Rai • Awadhesh Sharma • Shailendra Singh • Gagan deep Tandon • Ravi Vastrad • Brian Sullivan (Photography) • Amod Datar • Rajesh Chand • Ashok Attri

From the Publisher Welcome to our December Issue, yes Christmas is around the corner; it just seems to have come very soon; let's first talk about Christmas, we grew up with the festival, as we much looked forward to the end-of-year event when we were growing up, we celebrated all festivals, Vaishaki, EID, Diwali, Christmas etc, there was so much goodness and understanding, as kids of many faiths we grew up together with love and respect for all, man those were the days.

I am a Hindu and began my schooling at Sangam (Tamil school) then went to DAV (Arya Samaj) High School and further education Khalsa College and Punjab University Chandigarh. Our immediate neighbours were Muslims, and seriously, we thought they were part of our family. They were at our place all the time, and we went to their house all the time. They joined us with our prayers, and we joined in theirs, and the whole community celebrated Christmas.

So here are some interesting facts: Nearly all Christians (96%) celebrate Christmas. No big surprise there. But a new survey also finds that 81% of non-Christians worldwide celebrate Christmas, testifying to the holiday’s wide acceptance – or, at least, its unavoidability – in wider society.

Non-Christians are a diverse group.

They include people who are religiously unaffiliated (atheists, agnostics and people who describe themselves religiously as “nothing in particular”), of

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2 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

whom 87% celebrate Christmas.

They also include people of other faiths. The survey found that roughly three-quarters of Buddhists (76%) and Hindus (73%) celebrate Christmas. In addition, a recent survey of Jews found that about a third (32%) had a Christmas tree in their home last year. And some Muslims celebrate both the religious and cultural aspects of Christmas, according to news reports.

Although Christians and nonChristians celebrate Christmas, the survey shows differing views. Two-thirds of Christians (65%) say Christmas is primarily a religious holiday, while most non-Christians see the holiday as more of a “cultural” event than a religious occasion.

Overall, the religious landscape has become more diverse in recent years. Christians have dropped from 78% of adults to 73%. Over the five years, the proportion of adults who identify with non-Christian faiths has increased by about half, and the ranks of the unaffiliated (sometimes called the “nones”) have increased by a third (from 15% to 20% of all adults).

Some interesting points to ponder: we have a similar situation with Diwali, which is now universally accepted as a celebration; many countries have public holidays for Diwali, and proposals have been put to many others. I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,

whether you celebrate it religiously or otherwise.

Lately, you would have noticed Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian are recognised as media partners for some major events, such as the Lord Mayor’s Multicultural Awards and dinner; Brisbane has stars - an event by David Wu of Sunlit Group of companies, Raang by Infusion, Empowerment without borders to name a few; we were supporting media partners for many more. The point is that when it comes to the broader Indian community, we have that covered; our reach is far more than many others. We have often been quoted as part of others, which is not valid, and our name has been used to get their foot in the door.

Nevertheless, we can proudly say that we have remained true to our values and remain a quality, proper newspaper.

Check out the layout; we don’t just print a few copies now and then. We have always had the hard copy and the online version, look at the page layout and news content, etc.; we pride ourselves in maintaining that quality; our publication is not put together by the guy in Chandigarh who keeps reaching out to many in the community luring them, why do people even bother, I wonder?

Our format, quality and name have remained the same over the last twenty years: a traditional tabloid in every aspect.

Well, let's talk about some events.

I was supposed to have attended the World Hindu Conference in Bangkok, but unfortunately, I could not. It was good to see Madhu Naiker from Brisbane Attending that function, but I had to choose between Malaysia and Bangkok, Malaysia being a GOPIO event I have to go to; the full report will be provided in the next edition.

Congratulations to many Diwali organisers; all went very well, some bigger than others. I must point out Paul Sinh’s PRET awards night at the Royal Convention Centre; what a fantastic event that raised over two hundred thousand dollars for charities.

There are many more that I would like to talk about. Unfortunately, time does not permit; one thing I must mention is that please remain safe this holiday, especially around the water. If you are going swimming, remember to swim between the flags and in patrolled areas only; many people from our community, especially from North India, have fallen victim to the rifts, etc., as they are not used to the sea; our community from South India is more accustomed to the sea conditions. Secondly, take extra care on the roads, allow enough time to drive as traffic will be heavy, rest and survive, and don’t push on if you feel drowsy.

I must pen off until next year. It's goodbye from us. Be good and happy reading.

—Umesh Chandra OAM Publisher

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Authentic Indian spice at stylish Savio in Bangkok

By Rama Gaind It’s the ‘wow!’ factor on first sight that sets the stage for a happy sojourn like the scenario where fantasy touched reality — at the Chatrium Grand Bangkok.

Snuggled in the heart of Siam, this five-star hotel blends the timeless grace of Thai culture with the impressiveness of splendid luxury hospitality, a personification of stylishness.

Getting to the hotel is easy. Not only does it boast a sought-after location in a bustling neighbourhood, but it’s positioned behind the iconic Siam Paragon — the biggest world-class shopping destination in Thailand that has become a must-see landmark for local and international visitors.

As well, the vibrant Siam Square, Siam Center, MBK Center, Platinum Fashion Mall and Siam Discovery are all in close proximity, along with the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.

The capital of Thailand — or as the locals call it Krung Thep — is as invigorating as it is varied, a melting pot with visual treats, exceptional aromas and fascinating sights.

Infinite layers make up Bangkok with many hidden treasures that have given

Chef Pravin Baban Gayke delights diners with authentic Indian dishes at Savio in the Chatrium Grand Bangkok. this city an iconic status.

Go for the traditional must-see attractions including The Grand Palace complex and the scenic riverfront along the Chao Phraya River, nicknamed ‘The River of Kings’ by King Rama I. The river is used by an estimated 50,000 people choosing ferries to get around each day. Slow barges carrying cargo coast upstream. It’s the lifeblood of Bangkok, not just because of the rich history, as it flows through the City of Angels and then into the Gulf of Thailand.

It may be surprising to learn that Bangkok actually has more than 400 temples.

At least three of them are more popular among visitors. Not only are they breathtaking, but also conveniently located near each other, which enables you to visit them all in one day.

Wat Phra Kaew (also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is in the centre of The Grand Palace complex); after a ferry crossing you arrive at the smallest of these temples Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

on the other side of the Chao Phraya River; and the last one for the day is Wat Pho where you see the impressive statue known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.

If you seek the ultimate bargains on branded goods, then you’re in the right spot for factory outlets, and also day tours to sacred and religious sites, special museums and night cruises.

Delectable choices My preference was to stay inhouse and savour the authentic flavours, fragrances and spices of India at Savio, a stylish, all-day dining destination, inviting us to ingest and unwind. Savio celebrates the best of East meets West, classic and contemporary cuisine.

High ceilings coupled with stunning glass architecture and a crafted modern Thai interior are made for relaxation.

Some of the district’s finest dining options can be found at the Chatrium Grand from refined FrenchMediterranean cuisine to light bites and laidback poolside drinks for a fun vibe

Chatrium Grand Bangkok is nestled in the heart of Siam.

Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn) seen from across the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.

Photo: Rama Gaind with stunning views of the expansive Bangkok skyline.

Every day, a talented team of chefs create a spectacular selection of dishes from around the world at ‘live’ stations and open kitchens. A key element of this cosmopolitan concept is Indian cuisine, and chef Pravin Baban

Gayke is a culinary master who brings these vibrant dishes to life with classical cooking techniques and contemporary flair.

Having spent the last 14 years working in top restaurants in Thailand and his native India, Pravin is an expert.

Offering something for every palate and preference, Indian cuisine is a mosaic of scents, colours and textures, creating a truly sensory experience. Such was the ambience at Savio as chef Pravin deftly crafted a collection of dishes, including fresh seafood, prime meats and breads cooked in a traditional tandoor oven.

Specialties included Chicken Tikka Masala (marinated chicken breast in a rich masala sauce, cashew nuts and coriander), a powerful combination of spices and aromatics; the Tandoori Prawns (Goa-style marinated banana prawns with coconut chutney) were

flavoursome; and Tandoori Gobi and Mushrooms (cauliflower) was simply tasteful. Richly appetising curries, tantalising tandoori breads and light and fluffy pulao rice added to what was a delectable journey!

Another mouth-watering option is the Thali of the Day with a selection of small dishes and dips, served with rice, pappadams and chutneys. Inspired by Bangkok’s melting pot of gastronomic culture, foodie adventures are the best, but it’s also about indulging in flavouring that makes life delicious!

In the hands of a skilled chef, Indian food can take you on a culinary passageway that is both exotic and comforting, offering a symphony of taste and fragrance transporting one’s olfactory senses into a different world.

Laughter was certainly the brightest where there was food — at Savio — in Bangkok, Thailand!

THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS angels sang of peace. Luke 2:14 - Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au Dear reader, it is with much joy we bring you the word of God. This is the last month of 2023, and Christmas is on the lips of everyone.

All over the world, families, friends, and neighbours are coming together to celebrate Christmas.

Christmas is always associated with peace as much as it is associated with love and joy. In Isaiah 9:6, the prophet Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would be the Prince of Peace.

And when Jesus was born,

Here are 3 ways in which the coming of Jesus into the world brought us peace.

1. Jesus brought us peace with God by coming into this world.

Romans 5:1 says, ‘Therefore since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Because of Adam’s (the first-person God created) sin (disobedience to God), we naturally are not at peace with God. Our sins separate us from God. We did not have easy access to God, the Father. But we are brought into a peaceful relationship with the Father through Jesus’ death on the cross and our Faith in Him. How can anyone who puts their faith in Christ be at

4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

peace with the Father? One simple answer: it is because of Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Isaiah 53:5: “He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds, we are healed.”

Since He took away that punishment, we have peace with Father.

2. Jesus brought us peace with ourselves by coming into this world.

Though peace is a Christmas message, peace is not just limited to the Christmas season—our inner beings constantly long for peace.

Jesus promises peace in all seasons of our life. The Prince of Peace is ready to reign in all areas of our life.

In John 14:27, Jesus says: Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the

world gives do I give to you.

Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

And Jesus also said that we could find this peace only in Him. John 16:33 - I have told you these things so you may have peace in Me. The verse continues, you will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.”

The peace that Jesus gives is contrasted with the problems we may have in this world. The peace that he

gives is not comparable to anything.

Thus, Paul writes in Philippians 4:7 - Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

3. By coming into this world, Jesus brought us peace with others By bringing peace with self and God, the Lord Jesus also helps us have peaceful

relationships with others.

In Romans 12:18, Paul says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

One of our many challenges is when our relationships are broken or in chaos. And when we find it difficult to mend the fractured relationship, we need the Prince of Peace to intervene and bring peace and restoration to our relationships.

Jesus came to bridge the gaps, unite people, and restore broken relationships.

As followers of Jesus, we can live in peace with others.

Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”

Let the peace of God rule our hearts, now and forever.

Amen!

I wish you a blessed, happy, and joyous Christmas on behalf of my family and church family.

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Being Human — Sadhguru When we use the word “human,” in terms of our language, it is synonymous with love, compassion and gentleness. But the most inhuman acts on the planet are not committed by some other creatures.

They are always committed by human beings.

Why does it seem to be so difficult for a human being just to be a human being? If I ask you to be a tiger, and elephant or a grasshopper, it should be difficult. But why is it so difficult to be human? If the quality that beats in the core of every human being could be brought into every cell of his body and mind, it would not be difficult for a human being to be a human being. It is not natural that a human being should struggle and strive to be a human being.

Whichever way he is, he must be human. There should be no difficulty in expressing our own nature.

This is the whole effort of yoga – that a human being can just naturally be human. He doesn’t have to struggle to be human.

He doesn’t have to work hard to become the human being that he is – the way he exists is like a human being.

If this fundamental nature of what it means to be human finds natural

If the quality that beats in the core of every human being could be brought into every cell of his body and mind, it would not be difficult for a human being to be a human being. It is not natural that a human being should struggle and strive to be a human being.

Whichever way he is, he must be human. There should be no difficulty in expressing our own nature. is dependent on the bee, it is still the bee that comes to the flower.

expression in one’s life, one need not go in search of the divine. The divine will come behind you.

Wherever you go, the divine will chase you like your servant. Generally, most people have been taught to look up to the divine, to plead for the divine, to beg the divine, to pray to the divine. I think

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

you must keep the divine as your servant, not as your master. You must live in such a way that the divine should be a willing servant in your life. Only then this life is really worth it.

If you live in such a way, if you make yourself into such a beautiful being, the divine should crawl behind

you all the time. The divine should have been waiting for such a long time to find such good company! That’s how it should be.

I want people to live in such a way that the divine will crawl behind them.

They will not crawl behind the divine. This is not out of ego. It is just that when the

flower blossoms, the flower does not go in search of the bee, though the flower’s existence and future depends on the bee. It exudes such fragrance that the bee has to come. If you don’t have the fragrance, you have to take the flower to the bee. If you have that fragrance, even though the very existence of the flower

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in India, Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic, visionary an a New York Times bestselling author Sadhguru has been conferred the Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India in 2017, the highest annual civilian award, accorded for exceptional and distinguished service.

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Lord Mayor's Multicultural Awards for Business The Lord Mayor's Multicultural Awards for Business celebrate the contribution multicultural businesses make to the Brisbane economy and community through their creativity, innovation and resilience.

Winners of the 2023 Lord Mayor's Multicultural Awards for Business were announced at the Lord Mayor's Multicultural Business Dinner and Awards on Friday 17 November 2023.

2023 award winners Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 Lord Mayor's Multicultural Awards for Business.

Nick Xynias Multicultural Young Business Person of the Year This award recognises the success, creativity and energy of a multicultural young business leader under the age of 35, celebrating both their contribution to their community and that of Brisbane’s continued economic prosperity.

Mengting (Nike) Zhao, PEER Consulting Engineers Pty Ltd In 2009, the opportunity to study a Bachelor of Business brought Nike from Chengdu to Brisbane. She later transferred into QUTs Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree and graduated with First Class Honours in 2014. Nike's passion for making a difference

led her to volunteer on building projects supporting abused women and children in South Africa. She also furthered her global engineering experience through working on diverse major projects in Fiji. Grateful for the opportunities her education and career in Brisbane provided, Nike was keen to give back to the community through her onstop professional structural and engineering services business. PEER Consulting Engineers allows young,

talented professionals to develop their careers and learn and thrive under Nike's leadership.

Multicultural Business Person of the Year This award recognises a successful multicultural Brisbane business leader and celebrates the recipient’s contribution to the Brisbane economy and recognises them as a local champion of enterprise who may have a global outlook for their business

Alen Chi Kong Ho and Irene Swee Kong Ho After meeting while travelling Malaysia and marrying in Hong Kong, Alen and Irene decided to move their family to Brisbane in 1976. Despite limited funds, they embarked on a bean sprout growing venture in a rented house in Fortitude Valley. Initially their business supplied bean sprouts to Chinese shops and traders at the Brisbane Markets, but in the 1980s they expanded to larger clients including Coles. Today, Chilik Agencies, Pallara strives for innovation through the implementation of new technologies to enhance their growing systems and packaging processes for bean sprouts.

After 35 years in business, Chilik Agencies has become one of the most trusted

providers of fresh food to outlets and supermarkets across Australia.

Multicultural Entrepreneur of the Year This award recognises a multicultural Brisbane business leader that demonstrates through their business success, entrepreneurial flair, embedding a culture of innovation as a central pillar to their growth strategy. The recipient will personify the best in entrepreneurialism, possessing qualities from clear leadership and sound management to determination and ambition.

Kyungtae (Tenny) Kim, Littles Lawyers In 2000, Tenny's father made the decision to

broaden his family's life experiences and immigrate from Busan to Australia.

Tenny faced numerous challenges living in a new environment but forming new friendships in the Brisbane community assisted his transition.

Understanding the needs of multicultural communities firsthand, Tenny's Littles Lawyers business has a multilingual team that is proficient in more than 33 languages to support its clients. Tenny is highly respected within the Brisbane legal community and has fostered a strong sense of unity and support amongst its members. Littles Lawyers focuses on the success of its team and has implemented innovative technology solutions to optimise its services.

SUPPORTING The Consular State of Play AUSTRALIANS WHEN provides data and analysis on consular services provided to TROUBLE STRIKES Australians in need overseas OVERSEAS The 2022-23 Consular State of Play reflects an increase in post-pandemic travel, with non-crisis consular cases growing towards pre-2020 levels.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provided assistance more than 9,200 consular cases last financial year.

DFAT’s 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre answered, on average, one call for help every 11 minutes.

The last financial year, where we saw a record 3.1 million Australian passports issued, showed Australians are taking to the skies with enthusiasm.

Consular cases, excluding crisis cases, rose 17% compared to 20212022, and included: • A 23% increase in illness

and hospitalisation, with 1,122 cases • A 28% increase of immigration detention, with 229 cases • A 54% increase in reported assaults, with 199 cases • A 57% increase in whereabouts enquiries, with 265 cases • A 241% increase in theft, with 157 cases • A 168% increase in lost or stolen passports, with 2,043 cases During the 2022-23 period, DFAT also supported more than 800 crisis cases, including Australians impacted by conflict in Ukraine and Sudan, as well as the Türkiye earthquakes.

Insights from the Consular State of Play are a reminder of the importance

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

of being well prepared before travel. This includes getting travel insurance, making sure you have sufficient funds and registering with Smartraveller.

The Smartraveller website has detailed travel advice on over 175 destinations.

There is also information on passports, visas and travel insurance, and you can subscribe for destination updates.

This year, the Consular State of Play, has gone fully digital and can be accessed on the Smartraveller website.

It includes data infographics and case studies of consular support provided to Australians.

The Consular Services Charter outlines what assistance DFAT can provide to Australians overseas.

In 2022-23 the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) assisted in over 9,200 cases of consular assistance and crisis support.

This represents an increase of 17% of consular cases (excluding crisis cases) from financial year 2021-22 and aligns with the increase in Australians travelling overseas.

The Department was supporting approximately 1,375 active cases at any one time.

In the 2022-23 financial year, compared to the previous financial year: • theft cases have increased 241%, with 157 cases • arrest and immigration detention cases have increased 28%, with 969 cases • whereabouts enquiry cases have increased 57%,

This represents an increase of 17% of consular cases (excluding crisis cases) from financial year 2021-22 and aligns with the increase in Australians travelling overseas.

with 265 cases • illnesses and hospitalisation cases have increased 23%, with 1,122 cases • cases involving welfare and other serious matters have increase 2%, with 3,160 cases • cases involving death have increased 23%, with 1,871 cases • assault cases have

increased 54%, with 199 cases • repatriation assistance cases increased 176%, with 163 cases.

The top locations for consular cases were: • Thailand with 778 cases, an increase of 9% from last year • the Philippines with 610 cases, an increase of 4% from last year • Indonesia with 512 cases, an increase of 38% from last year • United States of America with 451 cases, a decrease of 2% from last year • Vietnam with 330 cases, an increase of 25% from last year In 2022-23, the 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre responded to over 48,000 calls or one call every 11 minutes.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 9

Taiwan Film Festival Celebrates Taiwanese Culture with 4 Amazing Films

For its 2023 event, the 7th Taiwan Film Festival in Brisbane launched four Taiwanese films – one Taiwanese puppet animation, one drama portraying indigenous people, and two documentaries – at Hoyts Cinemas Sunnybank on 28 Oct. By bringing the vivid and dynamic Taiwanese culture and history to the big screen, the four featuring films received raves and applause from the audience.

“Our mission is to promote Taiwanese culture through cinematic art,” said Kaijung Yu, CEO of Taiwan Film Festival in Brisbane, “presenting Taiwan’s profound history, abundant nature, contemporary social issues and people to the Australian audience as part of our celebration to multiculturalism.”

The opening film, Demigod: The Legend Begins, is a fantasy animation film featuring the unique puppetry art of Taiwan. With its unbelievable camera staging and mind-

Taiwan Film Festival in Brisbane is hosted and organized

by World Arts & Multi-culture Inc. “We just do our best to bring Taiwanese culture here,” commented Melody Chen, the association's Founding President.

blowing battle choreography, this 2022 award-winning film incorporates action, adventure, and romance in its Marvel-like universe of puppet versions.

“Remember Me,” the documentary that followed, explores the stories of three residents on Quemoy (or Kinmen, the tiny island close to Mainland China) and how they reflect upon the upheavals between the two sides of Taiwan Strait.

“A Letter to Ama,” the other documentary that took 10 years to finish, leads the audience to dive into a journey of constructing the collective memory of Taiwan. The film’s artistic approach and depth of emotions moved many viewers to tears. “I loved how it was able to incorporate history, culture, perspective and knowledge in such intimate depth. It was very touching,” a comment left by a young viewer in the survey.

Written, directed and played by indigenous people, the closing film “Gaga” portrays a Taiwanese

indigenous family, the members’ relationship, struggles, and dilemmas between adapting to the modern world and keeping the ancestors’ doctrine.

“Very sad, but beautiful,” commented a viewer after the screening.

Taiwan Film Festival in Brisbane is hosted and organized by World Arts & Multi-culture Inc. “We just do our best to bring Taiwanese culture here,” commented Melody Chen, the association's Founding President.

BAPS Diwali and Annakut celebrated in Queensland Parliament house

CONTD. FROM PG 1 Hon. Health Minister -Shannon Fentiman MP, Hon. Education minister – Grace Grace MP, Leader of opposition – David Crisafulli MP, Member for Surfers Paradise – John-Paul Langbroek MP, Queensland police commissioner – Katarina Carroll APM, parliamentarians, Honorary Counsel for India in Queensland - Mrs Archanna Singh ji and Indian community leaders.

It was heartening to see all the invited dignitaries take

part in Aarti (Deep parjillan) with lighted tea-lights on their hand. Mantras were recited for the offering of the prepared variety of foods (traditionally thousand varieties/annakuts).

All the speakers highlighted the importance of the event and they elaborated on the deeper meaning and message of Diwali. The Premier thanked the community for their efforts and thanked everyone who had attended her reception in November.

David Crisafulli MP said he was honoured and humbled by the gesture and how he

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

was always welcomed in the community at various events.

He specially thanked the young MC for his excellent handling of the important role.

Every year BAPS is touching a new milestone,

and it is only possible because of the support of the parliamentarians and Indian community leaders. During the event special presentations on the progress of major BAPS temples throughout the word was show, these included, New

Jersy, Abu Dhabi and Sydney.

The Sydney project has begun with a massive retaining wall and footings. The team of engineers reported that they have never seen a retaining

wall of that magnitude.

The event which included mantra recitals, bhajans and speeches, concluded with light meal and refreshments for everyone.

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Heat comes out of the housing market as values across Melbourne dip and Sydney slows CoreLogic’s national Home Value Index (HVI) rose 0.6% in November, the smallest monthly gain since the growth cycle commenced in February.

Despite the slowdown, the national HVI reached a new record high in November.

After falling -7.5% from a peak in April 2022 to a trough in January 2023, housing values have bounced 8.3% higher over the past 10 months, demonstrating a clear ‘V’ shaped recovery.

While the headline trends have slowed, multi-speed conditions have become increasingly evident across the capitals, with three cities recording a decline in values over the month. These were Melbourne and Hobart, both

over the last week of the month, we could see Sydney following Melbourne’s lead, with home values stabilising or dipping lower in December.

On the flip side, Perth housing values accelerated in November, posting the largest monthly gain since March 2021 at 1.9%. Brisbane (1.3%) and Adelaide (1.2%) also stand out with a resilient and rapid pace of growth.

CoreLogic Research Director, Tim Lawless, said these three cities continue to show remarkably low levels of advertised supply while purchasing activity is holding above average levels.

“This imbalance between available supply and

“The Melbourne Cup day rate hike has clearly taken some heat out of the market, but other factors like rising advertised stock levels, worsening affordability and persistently low consumer sentiment are also acting as a drag on value growth in some markets,” he said.

Slower growth conditions across the upper quartile of Sydney and Melbourne have become increasingly prominent, with the most expensive quarter of the market across both cities now recording the lowest rate of growth on a monthly and rolling quarterly basis.

“The more expensive end of the market tends to lead the cycles in these cities,” Mr Lawless said. “As borrowing

down -0.1%, and Darwin, down -0.3%. Growth in Sydney home values also slowed sharply, reducing to 0.3%, the smallest monthly gain through the recovery cycle to-date.

With Sydney home values slipping into negative growth

demonstrated demand is keeping strong upwards pressure on housing values across these markets, despite the downside factors leading to weaker housing market conditions across the lower eastern seaboard,” Mr Lawless said.

capacity reduces, we may be seeing more demand deflected towards lower housing price points, with the broad middle of the market now recording the strongest rate of growth in Sydney and Melbourne.”

The gap between regional

and capital city growth rates has converged, with both the combined capitals and combined regionals index recording a 0.6% rise in values in November. The convergence comes after regional markets have lagged their capital city counterparts through the

recovery phase to-date.

“While housing values across both of these broad regions found a floor in January, the combined capitals index has since increased by more than double the combined regionals index, up 9.6% and 4.3% respectively to the end

of November,” Mr Lawless said.

Regional Australia’s housing values remain -1.8% below the historic high recorded in May 2022, with Regional Victoria (-6.7%) and Regional NSW (-5.5%) recording the largest shortfall from record levels.

Softest capital city preliminary clearance rate since mid-March, an early sign of weaker conditions ahead Capital city auction activity held relatively steady last week, with 2,972 homes auctioned across the capitals, easing slightly from the 2,990 held the week prior. The third busiest auction week of the yearto-date (behind the week ending 29 October and the week ending 19 November), last week's auction numbers were 23.9% higher than the numbers seen this time last year (2,414).

While vendor numbers remain high, buyers have become more cautious, with last week's preliminary capital city clearance rate coming in at 65.9% - the lowest since mid-March (65.0%). With 2,261 results collected so far, last week's early success rate was 2.1 percentage points below the previous week's preliminary rate (68.0%, revised to 62.4% at final numbers) and will likely also revise below the decade average (65.8%) once finalised.

Across the largest auction markets, Melbourne recorded a mild easing in weekly auction activity,

down -7.0% to 1,311, while Sydney hosted its busiest auction week of the yearto-date with 1,154 homes auctioned, up 8.6% week-onweek. Up 39.5% and 14.4%, respectively, compared to the same time last year, last week's auction numbers have corresponded with a normalising in stock

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

levels across both cities.

Total listing levels across Melbourne are now 7.6% above the 5-year average for this time of year, while Sydney levels are now in line with the average (0.7%).

With 910 results collected so far, Sydney's preliminary clearance rate held firm relative to the week prior

at 68.7%.

Melbourne's early success rate fell 3.9 percentage points to 64.1%, with 1,013 results collected.

While this week’s preliminary results are still higher than the final rates seen this time last year, both cities have seen the final clearance rate drift below the decade average

over the past few weeks - a clear sign that selling conditions are swinging back towards buyers. This rebalancing can also be seen in the stabilisation of the rolling four-week change in CoreLogic Australia's daily HVI across both cities.

Across the smaller auction capitals, Brisbane hosted the

busiest auction week, with 200 homes auctioned last week, followed by Adelaide (161), Canberra (124), and Perth (19). Adelaide and Perth recorded the highest preliminary clearance rates, both at 76.9%, followed by Brisbane at 61.7%. These cities continue to record listing levels well below average, helping to support above-average auction success rates and strong value growth. In contrast, Canberra's preliminary rate came in below average at 52.7%, with total listing numbers holding 15.1% above the levels usually seen this time of year, while none of the three auctions held in Tasmania last week have reported successful results.

With still a few weeks of strong auction volumes expected before the festive season slowdown, it will be important to see how selling conditions pan out as we approach the end of the spring/early summer selling season. At the moment, it's looking increasingly likely that selling conditions will continue to soften into 2024.

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14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

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16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 17

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland ओ३म ्

जब कोई व्यक्ति रोगी हो जाता है , तो वह डॉक्टर साहब की सलाह लेता है । उनके आदे श निर्दे श का पालन करता है । कुछ दवाओं का भी प्रयोग करता है , तो उसे स्वास्थ्य लाभ हो जाता है । परं तु एक कहावत है कि अगर दवा के साथ दआ ु भी हो, तो दवा भी जल्दी असर करती है । दआ ु अर्थात शुभकामना। शुभकामना कौन दे ता है ? जिसने आपसे कभी कुछ लाभ उठाया हो। जो आपके गण ु ों से कुछ प्रभावित हो। आपके प्रति प्रेम और श्रद्धा रखता हो, वही आपको शभ ु कामना दे सकता है या दे ता है । तो यह कहावत सही है , कि "दवा के साथ दआ भी चाहिए. यदि ु दवा के साथ साथ दआ अर्थात ु शुभकामना भी हो, तो दवा का भी जल्दी असर होता है । रोग जल्दी ठीक हो जाता है । दआ से ु = शभ ु कामनाओं से व्यक्ति के रोग निवारण की गति बढ़ जाती है । इस प्रकार से रोगी जल्दी ठीक हो जाता है । तो सारी बात का सार यह हुआ, कि "यदि केवल दवाओं का प्रयोग करें गे, तो रोग दे र में ठीक होगा. और यदि दवाओं के साथ-साथ दआ ु कामनाओं का भी ु ओं = शभ प्रयोग करें गे, तो रोग जल्दी ठीक होगा, और व्यक्ति अधिक लाभ में रहे गा। इसलिए अधिक लाभ लेने के लिए बद्धि ु मत्ता इसी बात में है , कि "रोगी होने पर दवा भी लें, और दआ भी। परं तु ये ु दआ ु एं अर्थात शुभकामनाएं आपको कोई मफ ु ्त में नहीं दे गा। कोई भी व्यक्ति आपको शुभकामनाएं तभी दे गा, जब वह आपके गण ु ों से कभी प्रभावित हुआ हो। और वह प्रभावित होता है , आप द्वारा की गई उसकी सेवा से। "सेवा" एक बहुत बड़ा एवं

चमत्कारी गुण है , जो व्यक्ति को शीघ्र प्रभावित करता है । यदि आप अपने माता पिता की सेवा करें गे, बड़े बज ु र् ु गों की सेवा करें गे, पड़ोसियों की सेवा करें गे, आपत्ति ग्रस्त लोगों की सेवा करें गे, दे श धर्म की सेवा करें गे, तो आपसे ये लोग तत्काल प्रभावित हो जाएंगे।" "व्यक्ति, सभ्यता नम्रता मधरु वाणी आदि अन्य गण ु ों से तो कम प्रभावित होता है , लेकिन सेवा से बहुत अधिक एवं शीघ्र प्रभावित होता है । यही सेवा गुण का चमत्कार है । "इसलिए दस ू रों को अपने गुणों से प्रभावित करने के लिए, उन की शुभकामनाएं प्राप्त करने के लिए, दस ू रों की सेवा करनी चाहिए। बड़े बुजुर्गों की सेवा करें । अपने माता पिता की सेवा करें । पड़ोसियों की सेवा करें , दे श धर्म की सेवा करें , और उनकी शभ ु कामनाएं प्राप्त करें । आपके आपत्ति काल में इनकी सारी शभ ु कामनाएं आपको शीघ्र स्वस्थ एवं आनंदित कर दें गी।स्वामी विवेकानंद परिव्राजक जी ओ३म ्

GRATITUDE कृतज्ञता तीन ऋण

doing Yajnas (Agnihotra / Havan) as a maintenance process of the environment.

2. RISHI RINA ऋषी ऋण i.e. obligations to the seers (rishis) for the rich heritage & culture, the transmission of knowledge, the Vedas - the living values for peace, social cohesion, and fostering the inquisitive tradition.

• We need to keep ourselves Acharya Bramdeo Mokoonlall on that learning curve, add to Hindu Center of Atlanta the wisdom and disseminate it to the next generation, Gratitude कृतज्ञता is a hence Atithi Yajna paring noble human trait. It is respects to visiting learned respectful appreciation of and elderly persons. support, care, love received.

3.

PITRI-RINA पित ृ Gratitude brings light ऋण i.e. obligations to to life. The Vedic (Hindu) parents, ancestors and the philosophy upholds gratitude elderly around us for their in terms of the Rina Traya contribution in our physical, (ऋण त्रय), the three-fold mental-moral-spiritual & liabilities under which every social upbringing. We need to individual is born, which toe the line of our ancestors instill in us the sense of duties in living up to the Universal and responsibilities: Vedic values as well as 1. DEV-RINA, दे व ऋण i.e. continue the lineage and obligations to Eeshvar (God), perpetuate the knowledge by the Creator of the universe disseminating it down to our and all the forces and children. elements therein sustaining • Let’s adopt Pitri Yajna the universe and life (space, in our daily life, perform air, fire, water, earth …etc.), real Shraadha i.e. care for the revelation (Veda) and the living parents as an act of knowledge ingrained in the faith, respect and gratitude; universe (physical & other and Tarpan, i.e. keep them sciences) content …not when they are • We need to honor the no longer among us. cosmic process, i.e. respect Gratitude is a beneficial the laws in Creation - the action that will multiply our laws of nature, refrain from blessings. We need to practice polluting the planet which it daily to enhance our levels sustains life, make judicious of happiness (sukh), peace use of resources, and not (shaanti) and prosperity leave the planet in a worse (samriddhi). state than we inherited by Acharya Bramdeo Ji 18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

Samaj Havan Yajna Satsang at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre

For further information on Havan Satsang program at Queensland Vedic Cultural Centre 198 Learoyd Road Willawong QLD 4110 please contact Vice President Mrs.Sushila Pathik 33146059 ओ३म ्

BE FEARLESS AND HAVE FAITH IN THE DIVINITY अभयं मित्रादभयंमित्रादभयं ज्ञातादभयं परोक्षात । अभयं नक्तमभयं दिवा नः सर्वा आशा मम मित्रं भवन्तु ।। Abhayam MitraadAbhayam-AmitraadAbhayam JnaataadAbhayam Parokshaat, Abhayam Naktam Abhayam Divaa Nah Sarvaa Aashaa Mama Mitram Bhavantu.

(AtharvaVeda 19.15.6) O Eeshvar (God)! We seek your grace to be fearless from our friends & foes, from the known & unknown,

from daylight & darkness of the night, and from all directions.

This mantra is an invocation to “be free from fear, be fearless and have faith in the Divinity.” It’s a call to always be alert as life is full of uncertainties which have to be faced as and when they arise; from friends & opponents, the known & unknown, light & darkness as well as all directions.

A similar prayer is found

in the Manasaa-Parikramaa of our daily twilight BrahmaYajna or Sandhya where we seek the divine protection from all living and non-living beings, and from all directions.

We need to consolidate our health (body-mindspirit) and self-confidence.

Life demands not an attitude of flight as running away or hiding the head is no solution. Rather, the acceptance of uncertainties fosters courage to act,

understand, love, nurture compassion, and endure create space for faith & hope to blossom.

We’ll realize the edict of “Manurbhava” – be humane in thoughts, words & deeds, and be the oil and wick in the lamp of humanity. Happiness (sukha), Peace (shaanti), and Prosperity (samriddhi) will illuminate human life all over the whole world. Acharya Bramdeo Mokoonlall Ji

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 19

WHICH WAY, KIWI FIJI INDIANS? WHAT IS YOUR IDENTITY AND RIGHTS IN NEW ZEALAND?

Thakur Ranjit Singh, FIJI PUNDIT Are Fiji Indians part of Fiji History? Something to think about as we mark FIJI INDEPENDENCE DAY 2023 I received this email from my niece in Waikato who is a fifth generation Kiwi Fiji Indian in NZ: “I received a scholarship offer from the University of Otago for the Pacific Peoples Entrance. The scholarship requires a verification of my indigenous pacific ancestry which includes documents such as: land title documents, birth certificate, passports, and citizenship papers.

While we can provide those documents, I am not sure how I can be eligible under the indigenous aspect. “ And she asked for assistance on how to verify her ancestry. Wonder how does a fully Pakeha-looking Maori prove his 2% Maori Ancestry?

And I started thinking about our political debate on two separate classes or groups of people, one group is favoured because of race and other discriminated against.

And Fiji Indians now join that group Where is our voice?

Fiji Indians have been part of NZ since the advent of Indenture because of its nearness to New Zealand.

Our people came in large numbers to clean up a bushy NZ, and clear the scrub, which we call gorse. Some stayed back and we have some Fiji Indian citizens here who were victims of the Dawn Raids.

Hence, from a long time, we were part of the Pacific.

But we stand fragmented, without any real identity and questions from this student reflects on our past failed leadership.

To a great extent, that is our fault. We have arrived here in large numbers, became big business owners, owned multiple-houses, we have built many temples, (last count was at 11), have many religious groups, have done very well individually, but as a community we have failed to come collectively for the betterment and welfare of Fiji Indians here in NZ. While we have had a Governor General and an MP who identify as Fiji Indians when it suits them, we need to question, what did they deliver us? We are still struggling for an identity in New Zealand.

Thanks to the vision of some Fiji Indian leaders who formed an umbrella advocacy body over a decade ago, and it has been relentlessly promoting identity and other wellbeing of Fiji Indians which the well-off people have been ignoring since they arrived here over five decades ago. Many are wallowing in wealth, but welfare of the new generation is coming into spotlight.

We face gross discrimination and our identity issue has been raised by concerned Fiji Indian leaders for many years to the mainstream political party leaders and MPs who have been coming to our events.

We are blessed to have multiple identities. While

FIJI DAY we honour and respect our Indian/Asian roots and ancestry, that does not mean our Pacific identity should be denied or ignored - which we are morally and legally entitled to.

Fiji Indians miss out on resources allocated to Pacific Peoples. We must be part and parcel of it - not just when it suits.

We miss out on both sides — we miss out on the Asian side because we get diluted — then we miss out on the Pacific side, we are neither here nor there. For some, not Indian enough to be Indian, and for some, not Pacific enough to be Pacific.

It appears the battle, injustices and discrimination our indentured labourers, the Girmitiyas met in Fiji 144 years ago have been following their fourth and fifth generations in a supposedly transparent, and a fair First World New Zealand.

Fiji Indians have little or no connection to India. Fiji is our country and the origin of Fiji Indians. They have been in Fiji for almost 145 years, yet nor recognised by NZ Government and institutions as Pacific people. I wonder how long it takes for uprooted people to become indigenous or recognised to their country of birth of their great-great grandparents.

Ministry of Pacific People and the government do not

recognise us as Pacifica People. Some Itaukei leaders in NZ do not consider us as Fijians, mainstream Indians do not recognise us as Indians, then WHO THE HELL ARE WE? Former Governor General, Sir Anand Satyanand faced this prejudice and discrimination by the mainstream Kiwis before he became Governor General.

Paul Henry, a well-known TV commentator asked: from which angle does Anand Satyanand looks a Kiwi.

Other Fiji Indians here still face a similar dilemma.

From which angle does Thakur Ranjit Singh look an Indian? Yes, I look like an Indian (some say Rajesh Khanna or Vinod Khanna) But the similarity ends there.

I have a distinct Fiji Hindi language that developed in cane farms of Fiji. I am culturally different, as I practice a mixture of culture that developed in Fiji. I am completely different, as I grew up in a multi-cultural and distinct Pacifica community, hence my foods, habits, way of speaking and most other things are different than Indians. I have no links to Indian. Perhaps that is why even Indians do not recognise us as Indians.

We are not represented by NZ Central Indian Association or any other multitudes of Indian Associations. We are a distinct different people.

I add what Sir Anand Satyanand; former Fiji Indian Governor General of NZ said, in our 140th Girmit celebration in Auckland in 2019 about this similarity, and yet uniqueness.

He quoted Sir Sridath (Sonny) Ramphal, erstwhile Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, who described Indian cultural

Miracle of Miracles…The Christmas Story Jesus said “Arise and Shine…”

Key Scripture: For a Child is born to us, a son is given to us.

The government will rest upon His shoulders.

And He will e called: Wonderful counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

His government and its peace will never end.

He will rule with fairness and Justice…for all eternity.

The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven’s armies will make it happen. - (Isaiah 9:6-7) Dear Reader, We all love good news. But life throws many challenges to every one.

The story of Christmas is about the Good News of Great Joy. Our theme through this message simple and clear.

It is to make God real and

personal. And to present God as a Living and Loving Person. There-fore, you can understand His nature and relate to Him personally. Just like children learn to relate their parents. For many, concept of God has been misunderstood. This leads to assumption and imagination.

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

But, God is not an object or an image or imagination of human mind. God is a living and loving person. We find this amazing revelation in the pages of Holy Bible. Keep reading with an open heart and humble spirit.

It our hope that 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 is the confidence you can have in Christ alone.

Do you know what is the Miracle of Miracles?

Here is the great news of great joy spoken through ages. And it has never lost its intensity and the intent.

I believe in the Miracles. I also believe in the Miracle of Miracle.

The Holy Bible is a living word of a loving God. Every page is filled with life giving truth. You shall know the

truth in complete clarity and simplici-ty; and in the process of knowing this truth you will be set free in your mind and spirit. You will be set free to encounter your Creator and Saviour in a personal and intimate way.

Prophet Isaiah wrote a profound prophetic message about 700 BC. We know that every word Isaiah wrote is divinely inspired by the Spirit of God. This message accurately foretold the supernatural birth of Jesus Christ. This the Christmas, a message of hope and joy to the weary world.

It is written: For a Child is born to us, a son is given to us.

FIJI INDIANS ELDERS IN NZ MARKING GIRMIT DAY IN 2014

WAITAKERE HINDI STUDENTS IN AUCKLAND PERFORMING DIWALI AARTI DEVOTIONAL SONG. - WILL THESE STUDENTS GET DISCRIMINATED AS WELL heritage, in his own instance as being like a seed from a tree growing in India being taken across the seas and growing with encouragement from a seed again to flower in the Caribbean – being different but maintaining the essence of Indian origin.

Similarly, Indian cultural heritage, for Fiji Indians is like a seed from a tree growing in India being taken across the seas and growing with encouragement from a seed again to flower in Fiji Islands – being different but maintaining the essence of Indian origin. That is who we are, a unique seed from India, growing on Fijian soil as a distinct Pacifica People with the best of both the worlds FIJI INDIANS. The question that goes begging: why are we called on

to justify our Pacifica identity?

And who are some Itaukei leaders in NZ to determine who we call ourselves?

Will any of the leaders going to election shortly address the questions raised here? Will the new generation of Kiwi Pacifika Fiji Indians continue to face this discrimination?

Where are Fiji Indian leaders in New Zealand?

Please answer what my niece requested – Are we Pacifica People and will this very bright fifth-generation Fiji Indian student qualify for that Pacifika scholarship?

[About the Author: Thakur Ranjit Singh is a journalist and a media commentator and an advocate for the Fiji Indian course in Auckland. E-mail: thakurjifj@gmail.com]

The government will rest upon His shoulders.

And He will e called: Wonderful counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

His government and its peace will never end.

He will rule with fairness and Justice…for all eternity.

The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven’s armies will make it happen. (Isaiah 9:6-7) This is the powerful story of Christmas, God enters human history as baby born in Bethlehem manger. His birth is supernatural. His purpose was to redeem humanity from their sin. Jesus did accomplish our redemption. He died for our sins and he rose again by defeating death and power of sin.

When we believe this truth in our heart and confess with mouth that Jesus is our Saviour; we enter into a unique relationship with God. That is an awe-some news.

We become a child of Most High God, the Creator of the uni-verse.

Therefore, we invite you to pray this with a sincere heart; and experience the sweet aroma of Christ in your life. Do not harden your heart but humble yourself to your Creator and make Him your Saviour and Lord. Please Pray: “Dear Father God, I thank you for your word that has touched my heart.

Help me to under-stand the hope of Christmas. I choose to repent of my wrongs and I confess with my mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and I believe in my heart that Jesus died for my sins, God raised Jesus from the dead for my Mukti (Salvation). Now help me to know Jesus and His sweet fragrance more and more so that I can grow in the knowledge of your grace and mercy. Teach me your ways so that I can be person who will learn to honour you and learn to love each other. In Jesus name I ask and pray, so be it (Amen).

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 21

Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, also known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was a legal expert, social reformer and political leader in India. He worked towards improving the social, political and economic conditions of Dalits, the depressed class.

He was the chairman of the drafting committee of the constituent assembly, which was responsible for preparing the constitution of India. Towards the end of his life, disillusioned with orthodoxy in Hinduism, he converted to Buddhism and encouraged others to do the same.

Early life – Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891, at Mhow cantonment, Madhya Pradesh in the Mahar community of Dalits. He was called Bhima in his childhood.

His father’s name was Ramji Maloji Sakpal and mother’s name was Bhimabai. The family hailed from Ambadawe village in Mandangarh Taluk of Ratnagiri district in Maharastra.

Bhima’s grandfather Maloji Sakpal had retired from the Indian army as a constable. Bhima’s father Ramji Sakpal was the headmaster of an army school, and had retired as a Subedar from the army after twenty-five years of service. After retirement, Ramji started living with his family in Dapoli, a town near his native village.

He wished his children to be educated, however, the Municipal Education Department of Dapoli did not admit Dalits’ children to its school.

At that time, the Dalits were treated as untouchables and were subjected to social and economic discriminations.

Their children were generally excluded from schools and if admitted, were subjected to inhumane treatment.

Ramji moved from Dapoli to Mumbai expecting better educational and employment opportunities but was disappointed.

Eventually he secured a job as a storekeeper in the Public Works Department in Satara office. He moved to Satara with his family.

Bhima’s formal education began in 1900. He was admitted to the Satara Higher Secondary School.

He was allowed admission on the condition that he would not sit on a bench with other children in the class. He was required to bring a mat to sit on near the door. He faced problems on a daily basis and often he would cry. Although the discriminatory conditions were offensive, his father suggested he tolerate and ignore them and concentrate on his studies.

The principal of the school Krishnaji Keshav Ambedkar was kind and unorthodox.

Though a Brahmin, he encouraged Bhima and supported him.

On his suggestion, Bhima

changed his surname from Sakpal to Ambedkar. He remembered his teacher’s kindness throughout his life.

In Satara, Bhima’s mother passed away when he was only six years old.

His father remarried a widow named Jijabai four years after the death of his mother. The family relocated to Mumbai.

In 1904, Bhima was admitted to Elphinstone High School Mumbai. He used to visit a local park and read books. One of his teachers also visited that park. He was impressed by Bhima’s dedication and imparted valuable guidance.

Bhima completed his matriculation in 1908. He was the first untouchable in India to achieve the feat.

A social reformer Dada Keluskar gifted Ambedkar his self-authored book Buddha Charitra and arranged a stipend from the Maharaja of Baroda for his further education.

Ambedkar married Ramabai in 1908. The couple had five children, four of whom died in childhood. Only one son named Yashwant survived them.

On scholarship from Sayajirao Gaekwad of Baroda, Ambedkar studied at Elphinstone College and graduated with a degree in political science and economics from Mumbai University in 1912. Subsequently, he was appointed to a senior post in the army of Baroda. Despite his senior position he was ill treated by his colleagues and subordinates due to his social status.

During his stay in Baroda, his father became seriously ill and died in February 1913. The same year, Ambedkar was selected for study at Columbia University USA on scholarship from Sayajirao Gaekwad. In June 1913, Ambedkar he arrived in the USA and finally settled in a room with Naval Bhathena, a Parsi, who became his lifelong friend.

He studied history, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, psychology and economics, and completed his MA degree in 1915.

In 1916, he completed his second master's thesis for a second MA degree.

Ambedkar wanted to study law and political science.

He enrolled for Bar course at Gray’s Inn in London, and also at the London School of Economics for a doctoral thesis. However, his stipend was not extended and he was forced to return home in August 1917.

He had informed the Maharaja of Baroda about his circumstances.

The Maharaja offered him a post of secretary in his army. Ambedkar travelled to Baroda, where he found that no one was willing to rent a house to him due to his caste. Despite his senior position, clerks

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

and peons treated him as an untouchable. He came to realise that a high educational attainment and a well ranked job would not ameliorate his birth social status.

He returned to Mumbai and after enduring many setbacks, he was appointed as a temporary professor of economics at Sydenham College in Mumbai. Initially he was neglected and disregarded by students and other staff members but later their behaviour softened.

They started accepting and respecting him when they understood his devotion to work and mastery of his subjects. In his spare time, he visited the nearby backward areas to spread awareness among the oppressed people about their rights.

During this time he was introduced to Shahuji, the Maharaja of Kolhapur who sympathised with backward castes. On his advice, in January 1920 Ambedkar started a Marathi fortnightly paper Mooknayak, which enabled him to review certain Hindu beliefs and practices he disdained.

He still desired a legal degree from London.

He resigned from his professorship, borrowed money from his friend Naval Bhathena and also received financial help from Maharaja Shahuji.

He arrived London in July 1920 to study law and economics. He completed a master degree in 1921. In 1923 he completed a DSc in Economics. The same year he was called to the Bar by Gray’s Inn. Social and Political activities - Dr Ambedkar started his career as an advocate at Mumbai High Court in July 1923.

There too, lawyers were not prepared to cooperate with him.

However, through cases from clients of backward and lower castes, he was able to earn his living. Gradually his financial condition improved. He successfully

defended RD Karve’s journal Samaj Swasthya against which obscenity was framed. He also won the defamation case for three authors for writing a book entitled Enemies of Country. His victories were resounding, both socially and individually.

He was passionate about eradicating the practice of caste discrimination in India. In July 1924, he founded the ‘Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha’, a society to benefit ostracised communities. The main goal of the organisation was to provide education to the backward classes.

The society had an impact on the Dalit movement.

It started hostles for Dalits and published a magazine called Saraswati Vilas.

It organised conferences in different districts of Maharastra.

At a conference in 1925, Ambedkar declared that Mahatma Gandhi did not lay as much emphasis on upliftment of the depressed classes as on the HinduMuslim unity and on the use of Khadi. He urged Dalits to continue the fight for their rights.

In 1927, Ambedkar was appointed a member of the Mumbai Legislature.

During this period, he learned about a regulation which allowed untouchables to collect and use water from public sources. On its basis, Ambedkar fought for the right of untouchables to drink water from a common source. He started his fight from Mahad because he knew that area.

He organised the Mahad conference in March 1927.

He led a procession to the Chavdar Lake and drank a little water from it. Others also drank water from the lake and the group returned to the conference venue. Upper caste Hindus were appalled and attacked the conference participants.

The situation was controlled

by Ambedkar’s foresight.

Police arrived at the scene and subsequently five

attackers were punished.

For the first time, Dalits had undertaken a direct action for their rights. Many social reformers including Veer Savarkar voiced their support for Ambedkar.

Ambedkar started a fortnightly newspaper named Bahiskrit Bharat, the excluded India, to spread the voice of Dalits.

He encouraged Dalits to pay attention to personal hygiene and attire and encourage women to dress like upper caste women and educate their children.

During the Simon Commission’s visit to India, he met the commission members and presented his demands on behalf of Dalits. His support of the commission was criticised by other national leaders, who felt that it was against the freedom movement.

Ambedkar participated in all the three Round Table Conferences held in London. Through his speeches and advocacy, he brought the social, educational and economic problems encountered

by Dalits to the forefront.

During the second RTC, he had a heated exchange with Mahatma Gandhi on social issues.

When the British announced in August 1932 the Communal Award to separate Dalits from Hindus, Gandhi vehemently opposed it. He started his fast unto death.

After intense negotiations, Ambedkar and Malaviya signed the Pune Pact that saved Gandhi’s life.

After the Pune Pact, the Dalit movement gained further momentum.

Congress initiated social programs for Dalits such as their entry to temples, eating together with other Hindus and welfare works for the depressed classes.

In 1935, his wife Ramabai fell seriously ill and died. Her death was a great shock to Ambedkar.

For some time he shaved his head and lived like a monk. The same year, he was appointed the Principal of the Law College Mumbai. During this time, he travelled to Mahad and was forced to spend the day without food. Caste Hindus were not prepared to offer food and water to a Dalit man. He was enraged at this treatment. He declared in 1935 that he was born a Hindu but pledged that he would not die a Hindu.

Following his announcement, many leaders of other religions urged him to adopt their beliefs. Congress leaders and many Hindus strongly criticised his decision to convert. Ambedkar stated that he was prepared to remain a Hindu on the condition that the caste system was eradicated.

During the Second World War, Ambedkar’s position on participation in the war and later on Quit India movement was contrary to that of the Congress.

Following the Cripps

Mission, elections were declared for the formation of an interim government.

Ambedkar was elected to the Central Assembly from Bengal as a representative of the Dalits.

Jawaharlal Nehru highly regarded him for his wisdom and courage.

He appointed Ambedkar as law minister in his cabinet. On 29 August 1947, Ambedkar was appointed chairman of the drafting committee to prepare a Draft Constitution for India. During this period, his health deteriorated rapidly. He came in contact with Dr Sharada Kabir and both agreed to marry. Their wedding was solemnised on 15 April 1948. Her name was formally changed to Savita Ambedkar.

Untouchability was declared illegal in India in April 1948. It was a great victory for Ambedkar.

Ambedkar worked on a bill, which was presented as the Hindu Code Bill in Parliament. Many Hindus opposed it and finally the bill was withdrawn. He expected that the proposed bill would have improved women’s condition but its failure disappointed him. He submitted his resignation in September 1951.

Ambedkar contested from the Socialist Party in the election held in 1952.

He was defeated. However, he was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha and discharged his duties responsibly. He considered Lord Buddha, Kabirdas and Jyotirao Phule his gurus.

He attended the third World Buddhist Brotherhood Conference held in December 1954 in Rangoon, Myanmar.

On October 14, 1956, the Vijaya-Dashami day, he along with nearly five hundred thousand followers, was initiated into Buddhism. He visited many Buddhist shrines.

He attended the fourth Buddhist Conference in Kathmandu, Nepal on November 15, 1956.

Ambedkar’s health had declined. On 5th December he worked as normal and went to sleep. On the morning of 6th December 1956, his wife found him dead. His body was transported to Mumbai. His last rites were performed according to Buddhist tradition.

Over seven hundred thousand people attended his funeral.

He had published many books and articles, which continue to inspire depressed people across the world.

Numerous institutions and organisations are named after him. His statues and monuments can be seen all over India. In 1990, he was awarded the highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna. His followers use the salutation Jai Bhim to honour him.

—Awadhesh Sharma www.hinduguru.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 23

The yogic techniques & the auspicious science of mantras to remove, stress, anxiety, mind-wandering, destroying all sins and attaining bliss. Part -3

The content of this article is taken from the satsang (spiritual discourse) of H.H. Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu.

Swami Vivekananda addressed the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in September 1893. A hundred years after him, Pujya Bapuji addressed the same Parliament in September 1993 and the whole parliament reverberated with the chanting of Hari Om. Both of these world-renowned spiritual leaders addressed the audience for a much longer period than the given time and the audience were absorbed in listening to them.

To save the youth who are being ruined due to the lustful festivals like valentine’s day, in 2007 Pujya Bapu ji-initiated celebrations of MatriPitri Pujan Diwas (Parents’ worship day) on 14th February. Pujya Bapu ji felt that, due to the blind imitation of Western culture there has been a steep rise in the incidences of alcoholism, suicide, and other immoral activities, especially among the youth during the last week of December. To rescue the youth from this debauchery and denigration, Pujya Bapu ji came up with the idea of worshipping a sacred Tulsi plant (holy basil). So, with a view to awaken the cultural pride of India and to save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2014, he initiated celebration of Tulsi pujan on 25th December. Pujya Bapu ji has always emphasized the necessity to follow rich Indian culture and always said that it is only the Indian culture and Sanatana dharma which can give the world true happiness & peace.

Dear readers, in the last month’s article, we read about some yogic techniques and the power of mantras explained by Pujya Bapu ji.

In this article, extolling the glory of Mantra and power of mantra, Pujya Bapuji says, “Who is weightier, Nami (God) or Nama (God's Name)?" God is seen as confined to that image (idol) but the Possessor of Name is not confined to an image. He is pervading countless universes.

Therefore, Nama is weightier than Nami. Lord Rama had to build the Setu Bridge Rameshwar to cross the ocean, but the stones inscribed with His Name were floating. By the repetition of the divine Name, our mind crosses the ocean of samsara, hence it is called mantra. Or by the manan (constant thinking or recollection) of which one crosses the ocean of transmigration is called mantra.

Those Gurumukhas (who have completely surrendered themselves to the Guru), fortunate persons, and virtuous souls, who have received the Divine Name from a SatGuru; their minds keep becoming satisfied with divine joy. Thereafter, any worldly thing cannot allure them and pull the wool over their eyes.

And then, they will never lose heart under the influence of any worldly thing. Their courage will keep increasing. The more they do Japa

and the more consistently they keep obeying their SatGuru, the greater deal of nectarine Self-bliss will keep overflowing in their hearts.

The divine Name or Guru Mantra remains associated with the individual soul even after leaving the body. A pious soul who does japa of the divine Name is welcomed even by demigods. Such is the glory of japa of the divine Name.

Mantra Diksha is not any ordinary thing. One who has received mantra from a Guru and does japa regularly can never meet untimely death, lie cannot be possessed by any ghost, apparition or witch. A true disciple can accomplish his goal if he receives a Guru Mantra from a SatGuru and does japa and observes all rules of sadhana.

Just as the burning quality is natural and inherent in fire, so also the power of destroying sin and delusion of the world appearance is natural and inherent in the name of God. The name of God and God are the same. The Divine Name will do all action with its power and quality.

Especially in this Kaliyuga (iron age) japa is the best way to reach God. Control of the mind is very difficult and making a successful effort for peace of mind is really difficult but the divine Name is an easy means to achieve it too.

‘Just by repeating the word ‘Roti\ hunger is not satisfied’, such kind of logical arguments bring delusion but believe that the divine Name is not insentient like roti. This word itself is Brahman. There is no difference between God and His Name. One can effortlessly cross this ocean of misery with the power of the divine Name and also attain love for God. Mantra is a means that awakens dormant consciousness within us, manifests our greatness and develops dormant powers. Anything is possible with the chanting of mantra given by a SatGuru with a loving heart and in a proper method concentrating on its meaning. Just as by correctly dialling numbers on a telephone we can talk to a person anywhere in the world, in a similar

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

way, by the chanting of a Mantra in a proper way one can get Siddhi.

If by making proper use of a small dial of a telephone we can establish contact with a person anywhere in the world, then there is nothing surprising in establishing contact with the Lord of the Universe by properly using the inner dial (of heart). The telephone line of the world sometimes remains busy, but God’s communication line never remains busy and can be established anytime. He is omnipresent and ever ready to communicate with us.

If you make a mistake in dialling you will get a wrong number. A call needs to be made to someone but is made somewhere else. In a similar way one can't get the desired results if one makes a change in the mantra by self-will. Nowadays, in spite of extensive huge propaganda of religion, the life of a common man is not filled with the contentment, joy and bliss which it should be. What could be the reason? People do not know the right method of dialling in order to establish contact with the Lord of the Universe. People don’t understand the meaning of the mantra; they do not know the proper method of performance of anushthan or even if they know it, they are careless and hence do not have Mantra Siddhi. We can develop our ability if we know the method of mantra Japa, syllables of mantra, meaning of mantra and method of performance of anushthan. We can become one with the Lord of the Universe; we can realize that we are the Lord of the Universe ourselves.

However, there are many defects and faults of Kaliyuga but it has one good quality, that a person can easily attain God by repeating the divine Name. If a sadhak receives that divine Name as Guru Mantra from a Self-realized saint and he becomes engaged in sadhana with faith, concentration, diligence and selfrestraint he can get emancipation quickly.

What is Mantra?

'By the Manana

(constant

thinking or recollection) of which one is protected or released from the rounds of births and deaths is mantra.’

Any specific word or a group of words, which on repetition, concentrates the mind, protects the life and gives the desired fruit is called mantra. Mantra is secret knowledge encased within a secret word. Upon chanting, it generates such energy within the person doing japa that he can fulfil the desire of his mind. For treading on the path of spiritual elevation, mantra sadhana is most necessary. Mantra Japa gathers up scattered mental energy and thereby develops the subtle body.

Performance of Mantra depends upon Four factors: The first factor is the structure of mantra in terms of the configuration of syllables and vowels (sonic pattern of the mantra). There are sometimes some words in a mantra, apparently having no special meaning, but still, they produce tremendous influence on our dormant consciousness and undeveloped chakras. For example zero doesn’t have any value but when it is written after other digits their value is increased and we can write huge numbers like millions and billions. In a similar way even when a word does not seem to have any specific meaning, it plays a great role in producing the effect of the mantra.

Mantra japa is for obtaining special powers. Mantra is also required in Yajna (fire sacrifice), rituals, meditation, worship, and pious activities etc.

Second factor is faith of the sadhaka in Mantra chanting.

Third factor is one-pointedness of the mind of the sadhaka doing japa.

Fourth factor is continence of the sadhaka doing japa and cooperation of the mantra giver.

If all these factors are there with a sadhaka he becomes capable of unlocking the hidden treasure.

Vibrations produced by mantra japa exercise a great influence on

72000 nadis. Mantra japa works miraculously in opening of the six chakras. Chanting of Mantra helps tremendously in awakening our dormant Kundalini Shakti (Chit Shakti). Mantra japa can also change the nature of the individual.

It would be nice if you do japa with clear pronunciation of mantra, whi1e contemplating on its meaning in a quiet place. The present age is the age of tumultuous noise. And if you are living in a big city, where will you find a quiet place? So go to sleep when all the people are awake.

Nowadays, people rise late. Go to sleep at 9.00 pm and earn the wealth of japa from 4.00 am to 7.00 am. Japa can be done at all times, though it is better to do japa in good, peaceful environment. It does not mean that ‘I shall not do japa because there is no quiet place.’

The meaning of the mantra and feeling of divine grace help greatly in japa. ‘OM' is a mantra related with Self-knowledge. One should contemplate: “OM stands for Self, I am That Consciousness, Immortal Atman.” The feeling that: “I am God's and God is mine, He is my Master, 1 am His slave, and I am not, He alone is" also helps the person who does japa. If the mantra is given by Guru, pray to Him before doing japa, “Oh Gurudev, please remove my ignorance. Remove my attachment.

Give me divine love." Do japa of the mantra after contemplating in this way. Do japa after praying to God or Guru for receiving His love, removing your ignorance and attaining Self-knowledge. After doing japa fill your heart with gratitude saying: “O giver of Love, O Giver of knowledge, O Giver of joy, my Lord, Victory to You!" And be engrossed in Him. Dr. Diamond has proved »through research study in bio kinesiology that the Life Energy is diminished by hearing rock music, but by chanting the divine Name, it increases.

Please read more about mantra japa benefits in the next issue of Brisbane Indian Times, To listen Vedic/knowledge stories or to listen 24X7 live divine Satsang, please search “Mangalmay live” on google, visit http://www.ashram.org/ live or search “THE SBM STUDIO” on you tube. By the Divine Inspiration of Bapu ji, the weekly sessions of Bal Sanskar and yoga are held in Brisbane, Melbourne and in Sydney.

The kids are trained to learn yogic mudras, techniques, yogasnas and pranayamas. These yogic techniques along with jap and meditation help kids in attaining virtues like righteousness and self-restraint. The kids learn precious keys to develop intelligence and take advantage of chanting and meditation while playing and laughing. Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of “The Brisbane Indian Times.”

To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu ji, please watch this video. https://bit.ly/2uZvJuN For more info about Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions, to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine Rishi-Prasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@ gmail.com or by WhatsApp/phone to Shri Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti Au & NZ Inc. at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 25

Who, What, Where, When...

Captain Paul Shih with the Auctioneers hammer

Shilpa Aswal ( centre ) Mr and Mrs Krishna Narayan Prasad ( right) and Umesh and Usha Chandra (left)

Senator Paul Scarr speaks at the ICQ Spring Festival

The Aswals, Shilpa, Deepak, Swara and Ved organised Satya Narayan Pooja on the occasion of their housewarming (Grahprawesh)

Mark Robinson MP at ICQ Spring Festival

Students of Islamic college recited the National Anthem in English and aboriginal languages 26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

Councillor Kim Marx at ICQ Spring Festival

Aswal’s housewarming is a perfect occasion to dress up, Shilpa is the founder of Kanchi Australia (Silk Sarees)

Graham Perret MP at ICQ Spring Festival

Indigenous smoking ceremony as part of traditional Welcome to Country at ICQ Spring Festival

Who, What, Where, When...

Winner Australian Pacific LNG Community Hero Award -Super Max & Bryce - Bryce Lowes Kenworthy U'Ren and Amy Kenworthy

Winner - Awards Australia Charitable Foundation Mental Health and Wellbeing Award – Inclusee

Winner of Konica Minolta Customer Service Award - Extraction Artisan Coffee

Winner of Now I Can Run Disability Achievement Award - ALT Skills

Winner Bendigo Bank Community Group of the Year Award -Baby Give Back- Volunteers

Winner of Career College Small Business Award -Green Fox Studio

Winner of QLD Family and Child Commission Dedicated to Supporting Young Queenslanders Award - Care Kits for Kids QLD Inc

Australian Indian Radio team from Left Madhu Khanna, Savi Deshpande, Tapas Mandal, Usha Chandra, Suman Dua

Minister Leanne Linnard MP and Honorary Counsel for India in Queensland Mrs Archana Singh (centre) with AIR Team and guests

Queensland Premier Hon Anastacia Palaszczuk MP, the host, with Minister Leanne Linnard MP and Mrs Archana Singh and guests

From left Mrs Usha Chandra – Brisbane Indian Times, Savita Deshpande- Australian Indian Radio, Dr Maha Sinnathamby Patron FICQ and GOPIO Qld with Arvind Deshpande

Guests at Premiers Diwali reception for Indian Community Call: (07) 3192 5188

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Madhu Khanna and Dr Neeraj Khanna THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 27

IMPORTANCE OF SEEKING KNOWLEDGE IN ISLAM

By Ml. M.Nawaaz Ashrafi Islam is a religion of knowledge.

Islam gives much importance on seeking knowledge. Knowledge is a key to success. Seeking knowledge is better than any value in the world. Allah Almighty says in Holy Quran: “And say: My Lord, increase me in knowledge.” (Quran 20:114) It protects us from many difficulties. It has many benefits in this world and also in the hereafter. Knowledge is the base of our lives, and religious knowledge is pleasant, appropriate, and gives pleasure to us because we came to know about our Lord. No other religion gives as much importance to knowledge as the religion Islam.

Islam has made seeking knowledge necessary for all Muslims and has believed that not doing so is considered as a sin. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said about it in these words: “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.” (At-Tirmidhi) This obligation is not limited to certain sex or class but it is also important and obligatory for women as for men, young and old, rich and poor. Whoever seeks knowledge and help other people to learn will get astonishing rewards from Allah Almighty. Allah (SWT) will grant him/her high ranks in this world and the Hereafter.

Allah Almighty says in Noble Quran: “Allah raises of those who believe and those who have been given knowledge many levels.”(Quran 58:11).

Teaching others is one of the good deeds from which we will earn great rewards even after death. Whoever leaves behind beneficial knowledge will get rewards as long as people are still getting benefits from his knowledge.

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “When a man dies all his deeds come to an end except for three: an ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge and a righteous son who prays for him.” (Al-Bukhari) In another hadith, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “The excellence of a scholar over another (ordinary) worshipper is like the excellence of the full moon over the rest of the heavenly bodies.”(Abu Dawood). From this hadith, we came to know that there is a great difference between a Muslim who has a knowledge and the one who does not have. So it’s important to seek knowledge in Islam to know about our existence or creation of this world and everything in it. If you want to know about the purpose of your creation and this world then you must seek knowledge about it.

Islam emphasizes the great importance of knowledge and education. When the Quran began to be revealed, the first word of its first verse was ‘Iqra’ that is, read. Allah says

in Noble Quran: “Read! In the Name of your Lord Who has created (all that exists). He has created man from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood). Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous. Who has taught (the writing) by the pen. He has taught man that which he knew not” (Quran, 96: 1-5) We must have knowledge about what is permissible and impermissible in daily life. A person must also learn how to purify their hearts and deeds from guilty traits. Muslims must know how to purify their hearts from the love of wealth, status, and fame, and how to make one’s love for Allah alone. They must also learn the soaring manners taught to us by the religion Islam, and try to live our lives according to Prophet Muhammad (SAW). When someone tries to learn while it is hard for him/ her, they will surely receive the double reward from Allah Almighty because they put a lot effort into seeking it.

The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Whoever reads the Quran and stutters while reading, due to its difficulty, will receive a double reward.”

(Sahih Muslim) Learning about religion will make easy for us the path to Paradise, as Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said in a way: “Whoever treads a path in seeking knowledge, Allah will make easy for him the path to Paradise” (AlTirmidhi). The main purpose of seeking knowledge is to bring us closer to our Creator Allah Almighty. It is not simply for the pleasure of the mind or the senses. Knowledge accordingly must be linked to values and goals.

Stages of Seeking Knowledge are mentioned below: 4Ask questions in a good manner 4Remain quiet and listen attentively 4Understand well 4Memorize it 4Teach it to others 4Act upon it and keep it to the limit In short, knowledge is mandatory for the creation of a just world in which authentic peace can obtain. Quran emphasizes the importance of the seeking of knowledge. We should try to seek knowledge for the sake of Allah Almighty.

KNOWLEDGE IS ESSENCE OF RELIGION Allah Ta’ala created man and provided him with the tools for acquiring knowledge, namely hearing, sight and wisdom. Allah says: “And Allah has brought you out from the wombs of your mothers while you knew nothing. And He gave you hearing, sight, and hearts that you might give thanks (to Allah). (Qur’an, 16:78) Islam is the great religion of knowledge. The first ayah of the Qur’an enjoined reading

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which is the key to knowledge.

Allah says: “Read! In the Name of your Lord Who has created (all that exists). He has created man from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood). Read!

And your Lord is the Most Generous. Who has taught (the writing) by the pen. He has taught man that which he knew not.” (Qur’an, 96:1-5) In Islam, knowledge comes before action; there can be no action without knowledge, as Allah says: “So know (O Muhammad) that La ilaha illAllah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah), and ask forgiveness for your sin, and also for (the sin of) believing men and believing women.” (Qur’an, 47:19) Allah warns every Muslim against speaking without knowledge: “And follow not (O man, i.e., say not, or do not, or witness not) that of which you have no knowledge. Verily, the hearing, and the sight, and the heart of each of those ones will be questioned (by Allah).”

(Qur’an, 17:36) Emphasizing the status of knowledge and the scholars, Allah calls upon the scholars to bear witness to His Oneness: “Allah bears witness that none has the right to be worshipped but He (La ilaha illa Huwa), and the angels, and those having knowledge (also give this witness); (He always) maintains His creation in justice. None has the right to be worshipped but He, the Almighty, the All-Wise.”

(Qur’an, 3:18) Knowledge and fear of Allah may be attained by knowing His signs and creation. The knowledgeable are those who know that, hence Allah praises them: “It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.” (Qur’an, 35:28) The scholars occupy a noble status in Islam, and which is higher than the position of others in this world and in the Hereafter.

“Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge.” (Qur’an, 58:11) Because of the importance of knowledge, Allah commanded His Messenger to seek more of it. Allah says: “And say: ‘My Lord! Increase me in knowledge’.” (Qur’an, 20:114) Allah praises the scholars, as He says: “Say: ‘Are those who know equal to those who know not?’ It is only men of understanding who will remember (i.e. get a lesson from Allah’s Signs and Verses).” (Qur’an, 39:9) Those who have knowledge are the quickest of people to understand the truth and believe in it: “And that those who have been given knowledge may know that it (this Qur’an) is the truth from your Lord, so that they may believe therein, and their hearts may submit to it with humility.” (Qur’an, 22:54)

Islam calls us to seek knowledge. The Messenger (peace be upon him) made seeking knowledge an obligation upon every Muslim, and he explained that the superiority of the one who has knowledge over the one who merely worships is like the superiority of the moon over every other heavenly body.

He said that the scholars are the heirs of the prophets and that the prophets did not leave behind dinars and dirhams, rather their inheritance was knowledge, so whoever acquires it has gained a great share. And he (peace and blessings be upon him) said that seeking knowledge is a way to paradise. He (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Whoever follows a path in the pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make a path to paradise easy for him.” (AlBukhari, Kitab Al-Ilm, 10) Islam calls us to learn all kinds of beneficial knowledge.

Branches of knowledge vary in status, the highest of which is knowledge of Shariah, then knowledge of medicine, then the other fields of knowledge.

The best of all branches of knowledge are the sciences of Shariah through which man comes to know his Lord and His Prophet and religion.

This is the knowledge with which Allah honored His Messenger; He taught it to him so that he might teach it to mankind: “Indeed, Allah conferred a great favor on the believers when He sent among them a Messenger (Muhammad) from among themselves, reciting unto them His Verses (the Qur’an), and purifying them (from sins by their following him), and instructing them (in) the Book (the Qur’an) and Al‑Hikmah [the wisdom and the Sunnah of the Prophet], while before that they had been in manifest error.”

(Qur’an, 3:164) The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “When Allah wishes good for a person, He makes him understand the religion.” (Al-Bukhari, 69) Concerning the matter of paying attention to the Qur’an and learning and teaching it, the Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “The best of you is the one who learns the Qur’an and teaches it.” (AlBukhari, 4639) There is no goodness in knowledge which is not confirmed by action, or words which are not confirmed by deeds: “O you who believe!

Why do you say that which you do not do? Most hateful it is with Allah that you say that which you do not do.” (Qur’an, 61:2-3) The Ummah needs knowledgeable people at all times and in all places. A nation without knowledge and scholars will live in illusions and sink in darkness.

Whoever conceals this knowledge and deprives the

Ummah of it, Allah will place on him a bridle of fire on the Day of Resurrection, and he will deserve to be cursed, except for the one who repents.

Allah says: “Verily, those who conceal the clear proofs, evidences and the guidance, which We have sent down, after We have made it clear for the people in the Book, they are the ones cursed

by Allah and cursed by the cursers.

Except those who repent and do righteous deeds, and openly declare (the truth which they concealed). These, I will accept their repentance.

And I am the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful.” (Qur’an, 2:159-160) Knowledge brings a great reward. The one who points the way to something good is like the one who does it.

When the knowledgeable person dies, his reward with Allah does not cease when he dies, rather it continues to increase so long as people benefit from his knowledge.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “When a man dies, all his deeds come to an end except for three — his charity, beneficial knowledge or a righteous son who will pray for him.” (Muslim, 1631) If the scholar spreads his knowledge among the people, he will have a reward like that of those who follow him.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever calls people to right guidance will have a reward like that of those who follow him, without it detracting from their reward in the slightest, and whoever calls people to misguidance will have a burden of sin like that of those who follow him, without it detracting from their burden in the slightest.” (Muslim, 2674) Proper understanding of Islam is one of the best of good characteristics with which a Muslim may be honored, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “When Allah wishes good for a person, He makes him understand the religion.”

Reading Qur’an, learning it and teaching it, are among the best deeds, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There should be no envy (hasad) except between two people, a man to whom Allah has given (knowledge of) the Qur’an, so he recites it night and day, and a man to whom Allah has given wealth, so he spends it (in good deeds) night and day.” (Muslim, 815) THE FIVE KINDS OF KNOWLEDGE The Qur’an Recognizes Five Kinds of Knowledge: 1. Empirical knowledge: mathematical, experimental, observational, and socioeconomic.

This is the kind of knowledge best known in our times. Islam laid its

foundations. According to Hadith of the Prophet, pbuh, there is a cure for EVERY disease.

2. Rational knowledge, including logic and axiology.

The use of reason is strongly recommended in the Qur’an.

The Arabs translated Plato and Aristotle. In turn Europe was influenced by Islamic rationality. Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason has Islamic influence in it.

3. Intuitive knowledge, including poetic inspiration, love [highest form being the mother’s love for the child], conscience, compassion and forgiveness. The world’s greatest poetry is influenced

by Islam, be it that of Rumi, Iqbal or Ghalib.

4. Law and traditional Knowledge.

The Qur’an links the present to the past and teaches the rule of Law. Thus the best of the PAST is incorporated into Islam but the ephemeral and the historically limited knowledge is left out.

SHARIAH is extremely advanced and well developed in Islam.

5.

Revelation.

This is the highest form of knowledge and was given to Noah, Abraham, Hajira, Moses, Maryam, Jesus and Muhammad [peace be on them], and was perfected, completed and finalized in the Qur’an and in the life, teachings and example [Hadith] of Muhammad, pbuh.

Revelation is directly from Allah [the God, the Creator of all beings and worlds]. It can be recognized as other than human owing to its revolutionary nature and ”impossibility” within the social context in which it was revealed.

For instance, in preIslamic Arab society as well as in other societies before Muhammad, pbuh, women were regarded as the property of men and were often bought and even ”inherited” by men. The Qur’an rejected the existing social norms and went outside all the ”possibilities” in that era by proclaiming that not only are women and men equal but that women themselves must INHERIT property.

The Qur’an is Islam’s LIVING MIRACLE. Muhammad, pbuh, was unlettered genius, had no human teacher and had not been to any school. He did not write or think up the Qur’an or make any claim of being the author of a Book, which re-shaped the world in all its dimensions.

TALABUL ILMI FAREE-DHATUN ALAA KULLI MUSLIMIN WA MUSLIMATIN. (HADEETH) THE ACQUISITION OF KNOWLEDGE IS COMPULSORY UPON EVERY MUSLIM MALE AND FEMALE

18 pathways to Jannah Here are 18 voluntary acts from the Sunnah of Allah’s Beloved (peace be upon him) that are jewels left behind for those who truly desire the fragrance of Paradise and the Pleasure of Allah, Most High.

1] Fasting the white days: Messenger of Allah said, “Fasting three days every month is equivalent to fasting continuously.”

[Bukhari & Muslim] Comments: • Ibn ‘Abbas said, “The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, did not fail to fast the white days either when at home or on a journey.” [Nasai] • Refers to the 13th, 14th and 15th day of every month 2] Tahiyat al Wudu: The Prophet said, “There is no Muslim who performs ablution properly, than gets up and offers two rak’at turning to them wholeheartedly, except that Paradise becomes necessary for him.” (Muslim) / “Oh Bilal, tell me about a work that you are most hopeful about (being rewarded for) from the works you have done in Islam, for I heard the thumping of your sandals in front of me in Jannah.” He said, “I did not do a work more hopeful to me, except that I never performed ablution in an hour of night or day without praying with that ablution what was written for me to pray.” [Bukhari & Muslim] Comments: • The Messenger of Allah said, “Whoever of you performs Wudu’ carefully and then affirms: ‘Ashhadu an la ilaha illallahu Wahdahu la sharika Lahu, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa Rasuluhu the eight gates of Jannah are opened for him. He may enter through whichever of these gates he desires to enter.” [Muslim] 3] Salat al Duha: The Prophet said 12 rakats of salatul Duha are rewarded by a castle of gold build for him in Jannah by Allah [Mishkat al Masabih] and 2 rakats of salatul duha results in all his sins being forgiven even if they are as much as the foam of the sea [ibid].

Comments: • Duha is performed when ¼ of the day has passed from Fajr and the sun has risen quite high such that the camels hooves begin to burn [Halabi in Sharh Kabeer, pg. 390].

• Be careful not to hit zawal time which is roughly 5 – 10 minutes • before dhuhr.

4] Ishraq: The Prophet said, “Whoever performs fajr in jama’ and remains seated in worship until shurooq time and then performs 2 rakat nawafil prayer, then he will receive the reward of hajj and umrah.” [Tirmidhi] Call: (07) 3192 5188

Comments: • Minimum amount is 2 rakat and the recommended amount is 4. [Bahisti zewar, pg. 30] • If you cant pray fajr in congregation due to a valid excuse, you may pray alone and be entitled to the same reward.

• 6] 6 rakats after maghrib: The Prophet said, “Whoever prays, after the Maghrib, 6 rakat without talking of anything indecent in between them, it would be equivalent to 12 years of worship for him.” [Tirmidhi] Comments: • “Indecent” means without speaking about wordly (dunyawi) matters.

• Pray it after 2 rakats of sunnah and your post-salah Dhikr 7] 12 rakat nawafil during the day: The Prophet said, “A house will be built in Paradise for every Muslim who offers twelve units of Prayers other than the obligatory ones in day and night, to seek pleasure of Allah.” [Muslim] Comments: • Typically refer to the sunnan before the Fara’id, but include general nawafil too such as Tahajjud, tahiyatain and Ishraaq etc.

• The Prophet said, “Has Allah not rendered for you the ‘Isha’ prayer in congregation equal to Hajj, and the Fajr prayer in congregation equal to Umrah?” [Muslim] 8] Dhikr after Fard salat: The Prophet said, “O Messenger of Allah! The rich took the reward of akhirah, they do Hajj and we do not; they engage in jihaad, and we do not. So the Prophet, said, ” Shall I not tell you a thing upon which if you acted you would catch up with those who have surpassed you? Nobody would overtake you and you would be better than the people amongst whom you live except those who would do the same. Say Subhan Allah, Alhamdulillah and Allahuakbar 33 times each after every Fard Salat.”

[Bukhari] Comments: • This is a Bukhari narration, different narrations have different wording and instructions.

• Pray the sunnan prayers after the fard and then do these adkhar (plural of Dhikr). [Imdad al Fattah, pg. 328] 9] Ayat al Kursi: The Prophet said, “The one who recites ayat al kursi after every obligatory prayer, then death will be the only thing preventing him from entering pradadise.” [Ibn Hibban] 10] Repeating the adhan: The Prophet said, “Whoever repeats the words of the muadhin with conviction will enter Paradise.”

[Muslim] Comments: • It is preferred that whoever is listening to the adhan repeat it with the caller, except for the two “hayya ‘alas-salah, hayya ‘alal-falah” phrases, after which he should say “La haula wa la quwatah illa billah.” [Fiqh as-sunnah, vol. 1, pg. 99] 11] 4 Sunnan of dhuhr: Prophet said, “Whoever performs the four rakaats before and after the Zuhr salat with constancy, Allah Ta’ala makes the fire of Hell haram (forbidden) for him.” [Mishkat, Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood, Nasai & Ibn Majah] Comments: • The order is as follows: 4 sunnah c Dhuhr 2 c sunnah 2 c nawafil 12] Tahajjud prayer: The Prophet said, “Oh people, spread the salutations, feed the people, keep the ties of kinship, and pray during the night while the others sleep and you will enter Paradise in peace.” [Al Hakim, Ibn Majah & Tirmidhi] Comments: • If you miss Tahajjud, you can pray it at Duha time (Shama’il Baab fi Ibada) • If you cant wake up for Tahajjud, recite last 2 verses of surah kahf (Tafsir

Tha’labi and Maariful Quran) • Recite the longest suwar you know and recite surah ikhlaas • Pray your Witr after Tahajjud 13] Salatul Tasbih: The Prophet said, “He who performs this prayer will have his past and future sins forgiven & he also said, “O ‘Abbas, O Uncle, shall I not give you, shall I not present to you, shall I not donate to you, shall I not tell you ten things which, if you do, Allah will forgive your first and last sins, past and present sins, intentional and unintentional sins, private and public sins?

[Abu Dawood & Tirmidhi] Comments: • Takes about half an hour, try to do it once a week on Friday • Do not count tasbih on your hand if you can remember it [Radd al Muhtar] 14] Freedom from hypocrisy and Hell fire: The Prophet said, “Whoever pray in congregation for 40 days wherein he makes the first takbeer (takbeer tahriman), freedom from 2 things are written for him: From the hell-fire and from hypocrisy.” [Tirmidhi, declared Hasan by Al Baani] 15] One years worship per step: The Prophet said, “The person who has a bath on Friday and goes early to the mosque on foot, and not by a vehicle, listens to the khutbah and does not do any foolish act while it is being delivered, will get the reward of one year’s worship, one year’s fasting, and one year’s prayer; for every step that he takes.”

[Tirmidhi] 16] Raised amongst the Prophets: The Prophet said, “Whoever recites Surah Qadr once after wudu’ will be recorded among the truthful. Whoever recites it twice will be recorded among martyrs. Whoever recites it three times will be resurrected among prophets.” [Daylami] 17] Freedom from the hell-fire: The Prophet

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One years worship per step: The Prophet said, “The person who has a bath on Friday and goes early to the mosque on foot, and not by a vehicle, listens to the khutbah and does not do any foolish act while it is being delivered, will get the reward of one year’s worship, one year’s fasting, and one year’s prayer; for every step that he takes.”

[Tirmidhi] said, “When you finish the Maghrib prayer, say ‘O Allah, save me from the Fire’ (Allahumma ajirni min al-nar) seven times. If you do so and then die that night, you will be granted protection from the Fire.

And do the same after the Fajr prayer, and if you die during the day, you will be granted protection from the Fire.” [Abu Dawood] 18] Safety from the punishment of the grave: The Prophet said, “Whoever recites surah mulk at night, it will protect him from the punishment of the grave.”

[Nasai] Comments: • Other hadith mention that it will intercede for its reciter until he is forgiven (Ibn Hibban) and “It defended whoever recited it until it put him into paradise.” (Fath al Qadir, 5/257 / Sahih al Jami’a, 1/680, / Tabarani in Al Aswat) • It should be recited after ‘isha Rewarding forms of

Dhikr: a. The Prophet said, “Who ever says, ‘Radheetu billaahi Rabban, wa bil Islaami deenan, wa biMuhammadin Nabiyyan’ (I am pleased with Allah as my Lord, with Islam as my religion and with Muhammad as my Prophet, Jannah becomes obligatory for him to enter). [Abu Dawood] b. The Prophet said, “Whoever recites (the above)…4 times in the morning or evening, hell fire becomes forbidden for him.” [Fortress of a Muslim] c. 100 of these is unparalleled to anything else: The Prophet said, “Whoever says ‘SubhanAllahi wa bihamdihi’ (Allah is free from imperfection and to Him belongs all the praise) 100 times a day, all his sins will be wiped out even if they are equal to the extent of the foam of the ocean.” [Bukhari & Muslim] / “Whoever says at morning and evening time, one hundred times, none shall come on the Day of Resurrection with anything better except someone who has said the same or more.

[Muslim] • Takes literally less than 3 minutes d. Dhikr of this makes Jannah guaranteed: The Prophet said that Whoever says Allahumma anta Rabbi la ilaha illa anta, Anta Khalaqtani wa ana abduka, wa ana ‘ala ahdika wa wa’dika mastata’tu, A’udhu bika min Sharri ma sana’tu, abu’u Laka bini’matika ‘alaiya, wa Abu Laka bidhanbi faghfirli innahu la yaghfiru adhdhunuba illa anta during the day with firm faith in it, and dies on the same day before the evening, he will be from the people of Paradise; and if somebody recites it at night with firm faith in it, and dies before the morning, he will be from the people of Paradise. [Bukhari] e. Miscellaneous adhkar: The Prophet said, “Whoever seeks forgiveness for believing men and believing woman, Allah will write for him a good deed for each believing man and believing woman.” [Tabarani] • Say “Allahummagh firli muslimeena wal muslimaat wal mu’minina wal mu’minaat.” f. 2 more amazing adhkar: The Prophet said, If anyone recites two hundred times daily, surah ikhlaas, the sins of fifty years will be wiped out, unless he is in debt.” [Tirmidhi and Darimi (Darimi’s version reported it as ’50 times’, not 200)] Prophet said: “Whoever enters a market and says: ‘Laa ilaaha ill Allah Wahdahu laa shareeka lah, lahul Mulku Wa lahul Hamdu yuhyi Wa yumeetu Wa huwa Hayyun laa yamoot, bi yadihil khayr, wahuwa ‘alaa kulli shay’ in qadeer’ Allah will write for him a million good deeds erase a million of his bad deeds and build for him a house in Jannah.” [Bukhari]

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Knowledge and Progress 20 November 1966 DMC, Patna By Shrii Shrii Anandamurti CONTD. FROM PREVIOUS MONTH Worldly knowledge, the confusion of knowledge, is in its first stage physico-psychic, and then psychic. That itself is translated into the physical world, hence it is psychophysical. And what is the source of this physico-psychic knowledge? – let us see how far it is authentic. You derive jinána from books. You will read “Lahore is the capital of the Punjab” in a book twentyseven years old. But this does not stand correct today. This is because the source of physical knowledge is bound up by time, space, and person. With the change of time, space, and person, physical knowledge will change. Hence it is not a permanent knowledge. It is based on falsehood.

There can be still one more flaw in the source of physical knowledge, and that is a printing mistake. Because of it you read “Lahore” as “Labore”.

Next, there can be something wrong with your eyes, also, which causes you to read “Lanore”. These things provoke laughter in the audience.

Hence because of defects in the different media, this knowledge will be wrong knowledge. If with this very knowledge a person is full of vanity, is that person not a firstclass fool?

This physio-psychic knowledge has value to some small extent in the physical world. But its value is always changing. The theory which is appreciated today changes tomorrow.

Hence every knowledge in the world – every physio-psychic knowledge – is defective. To be proud of this kind of knowledge is not at all the job of the wise. It is better to say, “I do not know anything.”

So what is true knowledge?

True knowledge is the

knowledge of that object which never undergoes any metamorphosis due to changes in time, space, and person.

Everything in the world is causal; that is, the effect is followed by the cause, and the cause by the effect. It goes on like this. The effect of one phase becomes the cause of the next. This is known as sadrsha parińáma in Tantra. As long as we are under temporal, spatial and personal factors, the cause-and-effect factor will work. Where the cause-andeffect factor works, there only imperfection exists. One cannot be proud [of] the knowledge springing out of that source.

It is said in the Vedas, “I don’t speak [about what] I don’t know, nor do I speak [about what] I do know. Because the Transcendental Entity is known only by the person who knows that Paramátman is beyond knowing and not knowing.”

This is because knowing is a particular psychic projection coming within the scope of time, space, and person. And not knowing is another psychic projection coming within the scope of time, space, and person.

The Supreme Entity is beyond time, space, and person. It being non-changing, if a person makes an effort to acquire spirituo-psychic knowledge instead of physiopsychic, in order that the source of his or her knowledge be not the external physicality but rather internal spirituality, in that case that knowledge will be a perfect one.

What happens in the case of spirituo-psychic ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge is that though its source is absolute, its subject is relative, as the mind works within the scope of relativity. The source of spirituo-psychic ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge is absolute, the only absolute.

When humans

start acquiring ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge, they should not endeavour for physio-psychic ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge, on the contrary they should endeavour for spirituo-psychic ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge.

In spirituo-psychic ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge, in the first phase there is more of psychic than spiritual.

But later on, when mental concentration is gained in and there is advancement in sádhaná, the spiritual increases and the psychic decreases. And when gradually the proximity to spirituality increases, the psychic is completely eliminated, and only the spiritual exists. The final, terminating, point of this spirituo-psychic ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge is spiritual ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge, and that alone is ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge.

That is the real ss=hl highlight=true>knowledge which does not change.

All physical, physio-psychic, psychic, and psycho-physical knowledge is not knowledge, but the confusion of knowledge.

When humans realize that that so-called knowledge is of no value to them, then alone do they surrender to Parama Puruśa [Cosmic Cognition]. As long as people have the desire to acquire all relative knowledge, and try to do so, those people think themselves to be persons of letters, and refuse to surrender at the feet of Cosmic Cognition. When people’s vanity becomes powdered down by different blows, they realize that their approach to knowledge was a defective one. Then they surrender, and their egos are dashed to pieces. The greatest knowledge in the realm of physicality and mentality is that all the knowledge acquired by

one so far is false. This physical knowledge is like the leaf of a shala tree [a tall evergreen with large leaves] on which people take meals. As long as you have not eaten, there is a value in the leaf, but the moment you have finished your meal, the leaf goes into the dust bin to be licked by the street dogs. When you come to realize that this physical knowledge of yours is only worth licking by a dog, then devotion will arise in you. Then you will acquire true knowledge.

What is the nature of the psycho-spiritual approach through which one acquires spirituo-psychic knowledge?

When the physical mind reaches the zenith of subtlety, that is known as physio-psychic knowledge. There the value of physio-psychic knowledge starts. When one is established in psychic knowledge, then there is the expression of the psycho-physical in it. Likewise, when psychic knowledge reaches the zenith of subtlety, it comes in contact with spirituality, and the point where spiritual knowledge or spirituopsychic knowledge functions in the mental scope, is alone said to be spirituo-psychic knowledge. As matter is made to be the end of life in acquiring physical knowledge (fit to be thrown into the dust bin), so for acquiring spiritual knowledge, Paramátman should be made the end. Then alone will people get real knowledge. (1) How is it possible to make Paramátman the end of your life? Paramátman is the subject for the whole of the Cosmos, and the latter is His object. He is the Supreme Subjectivity, you are His object. It is not possible to make Him your object, as you are His object. Then what to do?

You have to take the ideation that He is always witnessing you. The wise do not take Paramátman as their object exactly, but rather think that

they are being witnessed by Him. “Paramátman is not my object; I am the object of Paramátman.”

When this feeling is constantly there, always there, in a person, the name of this stage is dhruvasmrti. That you are the object of Paramátman is known to you, but you do not remember this all the time. When through sádhaná a person never forgets that Paramátman is always witnessing him or her, this is named dhruvasmrti. This alone is spiritual knowledge. In this stage alone does a person get true knowledge.

This spiritual knowledge can be translated into the mental sphere as well as into the physical sphere. If a person is willing to translate it, he or she should do so, for that will bring a lot of good to the world. This alone is real knowledge. With this alone, progress is possible.

The most learned person is one who understands that he or she is not at all learned.

You are spiritual aspirants.

You must always remember that physico-psychic knowledge is needed only in the physical world. But when [spiritual knowledge] is acquired in the individual life, then it is no longer required.

This very spiritual knowledge is alone devotion; that is, knowledge finally transforms itself into devotion after constant efforts; that is, when knowledge realizes that nothing is to be effected by it, then alone does it surrender to devotion. When knowledge surrenders to devotion, that is spiritual knowledge.

Hence remember that once you have got devotion, you have got everything. If Paramátman asked you your demand, you should demand nothing, and if at all God is pleased to give you something, you should ask for parábhakti [absolute devotion].

20 November 1966 DMC, Patna

Tulsi Vivah at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Tulasi and Saligrama Vivaha was celebrated at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir on Sunday, 26th November from 5 pm. The program included bhajan, kirtans,

tulasi vivah & poojan and vivah geet. Tulasi Vivah was conducted by Dharam Guru Pandit Tripathi ji with the Barat (wedding procession), which left

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

Pandit ji’ resident for the mandir. People were given the opportunity to conduct kanya daan. Mahaprasad was served after the ceremony.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 31

Brisbane’ Bengalees Durga Puja 2023 Bengali Society of Queensland (BSQ), thriving along the Brisbane River in Australia, proudly represents the heritage and culture of West Bengal along the Ganges River in Kolkata. Probasher Bangali feels at home along the meandering coasts of the Brisbane River and takes every opportunity to create and relive memories and moments of Kolkata so deeply rooted within. With profound care and love the BSQ community brings together every year the major events and festivities for all. The Bengali Society of Queensland has grown consistently and has spread its wings wide, bringing Probashi Bangali under one banner. Today, BSQ is one of the most populated Bengali communities of Queensland. This is the time of the year when new members are added to the BSQ fraternity every year students, migrants, interstate movers and a large number of non-Bangali friends would flock to become a member and be a part of the family.

It is the strong bond of childhood memories, lifestyle, food, bedtime stories, music, dance, movies, celebrations, shopping, adda, festivities and last but not the least, the Sharodiya and Diwali months, make a big difference to all. BSQ rekindles the greatest feeling of belonging and nostalgia that bonds every member into positive vibes and family feeling in a country that feels like home.

This year on the auspicious day, 14th October, BSQ members woke up early morning with the devotional voice of Sri Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s chanting of the Mahalaya. Every Bangali waits patiently to reflect on the spiritual journey of Devi Durga and seek her blessings listening closely with family the Vedic chants relaying the creation of Katyayani Maa Durga, broadcasted by Australian Indian Radio, one of the proud sponsors of BSQ. This is the beginning of Devi Pokhya, heralds the homecoming of Uma ( The other name of Ma Durga) that culminates into the Sharodiya Durgotsav, the biggest and the richest festival of every Bangali, spread in any corner of this planet. The festivities and celebrations are aimed to embrace the ritual of homecoming, be with their loved ones and share the prosperity together. Every day is to be felt like a new and happy day, welcome happiness and gather resources to make the ten days a memorable one until next year. Engage in Sharodiya Mantra - Pujo-r Gondho, with Pujo-r Bazar, Pujo-r Mandop, Pujo-r Alochona, Pujo-r Gaan, Pujo Shonkhya, and Pujo-r Anondyo – “Ay re chutey ay pujor gondho eshechey…“ Long before we heard the bells of Mahalaya and was singing along to the tunes of Agomoni Gaan, our Pujo Mandap’s decoration and theme was well and truly underway under the most creative and experienced hands of one member legend.

BSQ’s Sri Sri Durga Mandap is a surprise that is brought to life and finally unveiled the evening before Saptami Pujo. Brisbane is lucky to get a new one each year. The devotees visiting the venue will spend time to admire most intriguingly the art and engineering masterpiece.

BSQ is proud and immensely lucky to adorn Devi Durga with a unique backdrop every year since 2009. The garage, in a quiet Western Brisbane Suburban home of the couple, becomes the most active ground of design and artwork, quite in tradition to Kolkata Mandaps. Like the excitement of the Mahalaya, the new Mandap is an excitement, together with the lights which is done by another member’s couple keeping the same traditional Kolkatas lighting. The decorations, announcements of the activities and events that brings everyone together on a Friday evening after work to support in the display and make Durga-Pujo an event to come back to.

Durga Pujo is always full of emotion and nostalgia, and Brisbane’s Probash-erBangali community (BSQ) does care about it all – the planning, the management and the execution is no less than what can be a daughter’s hand in marriage. Not any minor chance of “missing out” will be accepted. Every detail goes into making the logistics, safety, entertainment, food, and brotherhood a great success. Any new member will strive to be a part of this mammoth display of worship and cultural extravaganza for their younger generation to witness and be a part of.

A five-day event is zipped into two and half days – needs a powerful and actionpacked arena. It is possible only with the support of all members, sponsors, donations, volunteers, earlier success stories and the hard work of BSQ Executive Committee. A major initiative also goes in bringing together other communities, Brisbane Council Members, The Local Councilors, The Prime Minister’s Office, the Premier’s Office, the sponsors, The Media Partners and event partners to join in the festivities and continue the strong bond of friend and mateship. Every community and ethnic group find time to support and embrace in the celebration of the Navaratri festival that is better known for BSQ as Durga Pujo.

It is by the tradition of the utsav and the rituals, Maa Durga is adorned with the best jewelleries, sarees, offerings and music-dance-happiness that takes prosperity to the pinnacle. Kolkata’s family and Bonedi pujo style becomes the background of what is seen replicated at BSQ pujo mandap. The flowers, the fresh fruits and vegetables, the delicious home-made bhog, the sugondhi dhuupdhuno, kashor-ghonta and above all the kola bou is never forgotten. It is a grand show of ladies and gents in their best attire these three days

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

working since early morning to midnight from chopping veggies, frying the luchi, cooking the meals, running errands, to packing and cleaning relentlessly. This pujo season, BSQ has welcomed 1000 guest attendees and served 3000 plus visitors through Friday to Sunday at Coorparoo Secondary College. BSQ was proud to receive letters of appreciation and acknowledgement from the Prime Minister’s and Premier’s Office along with our community stakeholders that went as record and is published in our Annual Magazine or Barshiki Patrika – Kashphool’23. The Kashphool

– as the name says, symbolises the season of Devi Durga’s homeward journey. We enrich her homecoming releasing the magazine that showcases the creativity and talent that the members share from all levels.

We acknowledge our sponsors, advertisers, members’ art, literature, recounts, life experiences and preserve it as a memory to cherish with family and friends.

“Dhakey ebar porlo kathi, durga pujo r nei je baki” the Protima is unveiled on the sixth day, called Shoshti with the gatherings and pomp of the kashor-ghonta, uloo-dhyoni and dhaak er bajna, making the advent of

goddess a very welcoming, over longing and happy start.

Maha Saptami, the seventh day ritual begins Saturday, with the rites of bathing the banana plant, the “Kola bou” is mandatory. There are many interpretations of the Kola Bou or Nabapatrika but it is understood that it depicts a woman ready after bath, clean and pure, will stay along and witness the procedure.

The same is also sometimes regarded as Lord Ganesha’s wife or Devi Durga in simple attire herself, as the plant form. Maha Ashtami is the 8th day, when Mahishasur was defeated, marks the most important and popular day

of visits and gathering by the devotees. Men, women and children will pray and offer their devotional words as the “Anjali” in the name of devi durga. The Anjali is very popular in BSQ, and it is revered many times so that no one misses “Anjali” for another year!! The Khichudi bhog is a must here and the home-made sweets are distributed, visitors and devotees wait in long queues patiently to get the blessings as Bhog-proshaad.

Shondhi Pujo, MahaNavami and Maha Dashami are the actions for Sunday, the last day of Pujo in Brisbane. The culmination during the day is the Hom – during Shondhi Pujo and the Shindoor khela during Bijoya Dashami in the evening. The 10th day is the “Bisharjan”, when Devi Durga is prepared to return from the celebrations to her abode, where she lives with her sons and daughters, in Kailash. This is popularly named as Bijoya Dashami and all married women would indulge in adorning the Sindoor to another women in love and care of their marriage and prays for a perfect bond and life partner.

Unlike the immersion in the Ganges, Durga idol for BSQ is carefully preserved for next year. “Bolo Durga Maiki”, Ashchey Bochhor Abar Hobey…”is the word that is spread and sweets are shared to shower the blessings to all dear and near. The young take the blessings of the elders, saying “Shubho Bijoya”.

BSQ has a tradition of dancing to the drums beat and enjoy the deliciously cooked food to end the night of Visarjan and Dashami on Sunday, this year was Sunday, 29th October. Each day and each night saw a huge gathering and we were proud to see BSQ’s banner spreading and the member following increase. It is an amazing sight to see new faces, young students and family showering their enthusiasm and love of being able to connect for a reason that is deep and true to the core of every Bengali and every Indian born Australian.

The icing on the cake, what everyone would look forward, to sit back, relax and enjoy with friends, the Cultural Program - a must have on the Durgotsav Itinerary for Saturday 28th October.

This year we were lucky to have Honourable Indian Consulate Mrs. Archana Singh as the Chief Guest, FICQ President Anoop Nunuru and the General Secretary and other eminent guests to preside over the gala show and musical extravaganza.

The program closed with a warm vote of thanks from the President, BSQ, Tapas Kumar Mandal, his EC, along with the reverberating claps and rejoicing of the spectators at Coorparoo Secondary College that was full to capacity. Three cheers to team BSQ and pay respect to the traditional owners of the land where we thrive and gather.

Report : Saheli Mukherjee P.C : Pablo Lanata

Kavita ji

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 33

GOPIO Gold Coast Hosts Diwali 2023

GOPIO Gold Coast hosted an outdoor Diwali Fair event on Sunday, November 19th, 2023. The celebration was a great success with over 1000 attendees, including many invited dignitaries.

Broadwater Parklands was buzzing with a multitude of stalls, food trucks, and activities for the families to enjoy. Attendees browsed stalls displaying Indian jewellery, ethnic costumes, and home décor while children enjoyed free access to a balloon twister and henna tattoos.

The crowd was entertained throughout the event with a mix of Bollywood beats, cultural stage performances, and our rocking DJ Ashu. The Gold Coast skyline was lit up in the true spirit of Diwali with a phenomenal eco-friendly laser show to conclude the evening festivities. The Gold Coast City Council supported the event.

communities to come together to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Diwali. We want to thank everyone who attended the event and wholeheartedly supported it to make it a huge success. A special thanks to the performers and stall holders working with the GOPIO GC Executive Committee to bring this memorable event together.

GOPIO GC takes this opportunity to thank all our wonderful sponsors: Platinum Sponsor Southern Cross University Gold Sponsor - Simonds Homes Silver Sponsors - Kannon Accounting, Senator Murray Watts, Wedding Party Trends The GOPIO GC Diwali Fair was a wonderful opportunity for people of Indian origin and multicultural

GOPIO GC Executive Committee

President: Mr Pradip Gorasia Vice President: Mr Mokhtiar Singh 2nd Vice President: Mr Preetham Krishna Secretary: Ms Madhuri Soni Treasurer: Ms Jessy Kaurah Joint Secretary: Mr Paddy Krishna Asst Treasurer: Ms Varsha Badhe Cultural Coordinator: Mr Shrey Baluja Youth Ambassador: Ms Janvi Makanjee

Can Indians cook fish and chips?

By Peter Lane Rai Indians live worldwide and are well known for their ability and resourcefulness to make a new life in a foreign country. My Indian father left India and lived in World War Two England, where he met my mum and where I was born.

So, fish and chips are one of my favourite meals, and this would not surprise you as

I was brought up in England.

I’ve already taken my Christmas holiday for this year, at a small coastal town five hours' drive from Brisbane. So, one night, I went to the local fish and chip shop to get dinner. To my great surprise, on the menu list was “Curry in a Hurry”, and the owner, Mohan, was an Indian from Gujarat State!

Yet while I know Indians can cook curry, I was not too sure if they can cook fish and chips correctly!

Mohan told me he loved Australia, but it had been tough settling in as he had emigrated to Australia alone in 2018, leaving behind his pregnant wife, Amrit. She would join Mohan after the baby was born, but COVID came along in 2019, preventing the family from reuniting in Australia.

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

So, it was three lonely, difficult years for Mohan and Amrit before they and their son Ashish could be happily reunited.

Mohan told me that he had chosen to live in a quiet coastal Queensland town as “After living in a bustling, chaotic crowded Indian

city all my life, I wanted to enjoy fresh air and space in a coastal Queensland town. “ While Mohan may never be rich, the business is doing

well, and he and the family feel like they are part of the local community.

To my question why he chose a fish chip shop business (not too well known in India other than in Goa) he replied “Well we eat a lot of deepfried foods in India, so it is not too much of a problem to deep-fry potatoes and fish” So, what did I think of Mohan’s fish and chips? They were great - as good as those I ate in England. So well done Mohan.

Mohan and Amrit’s story is an excellent example of Indian determination to overcome the challenges of living outside of India and contribute meaningfully to Australian life.

Next time I see Mohan, I will have some curry with my fish and chips!

Australian Indian Events Company’s Diwali 2023 a resounding success at Movie world

AIEC had a Grand Success for The Diwali at Movie World with over five thousand attendees, the event was Sold Out a week in advance, this would arguably be the Fastest-Selling Indian Festival on the Gold Coast.

The event created history being first time ever at Warner Bros Movie World.

It was proudly Organised by Australian Indian Events Co. (AIEC), a Gold Coast based events company led by Shrey Baluja. The presenting partner was Saffron Indian Gourmet.

The event included live Parade by Brisbane Dhol Tasha with Warner Bros Characters.

There were over twenty plus unique Performances, ten plus retail Shops and up to five variety food stalls. The event was Inaugurated by Mark

The event created history being first time ever at Warner Bros Movie World.

It was proudly Organised by Australian Indian Events Co. Boothman MP, as the chief guest.

Other community leaders included Pinky Singh Manvi OAM, Pushpinder Oberoi, Pradip Gorasia, Kishor Nallapu and the Organiser Shrey Baluja).

Diwali is fast becoming a universal celebration which transcends cultures, more than thirty five percent of ticket holders were from Multicultural backgrounds and wider Australian community. The entry fee was from thirty-five dollars per person.

Spectacular Diwali celebrations at King George Square organised by the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland

The annual Diwali celebrations organised by the FICQ at the iconic King George Square stand as a highly anticipated event on the calendar, particularly for the expanding Indian diaspora in Brisbane.

The essence of 'Unity in diversity' is deeply ingrained in the Indian community's ethos. Staying true to its mission, the FICQ has consistently fostered connections between the Indian diaspora and the broader community, paving the way for unity at the FICQ Diwali since 2010.

His Excellency Shri Manpreet Vohra, the High Commissioner of India to Australia, graced the occasion and shared with the attendees that the Consulate General of India office in Brisbane will open shortly.

Representatives from all three levels of government attended the FICQ Diwali celebrations. Notable guests included Hon. Jim Chalmers, MP, Federal Treasurer and Member for Rankin, Call: (07) 3192 5188

Senator the Hon Murray Watt, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Minister for Emergency Management, Hon Luke Howarth MP, Member for Petrie, and Mr. Stephen Bates MP, Member for Brisbane, Mr. Jarrod Bleijie MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Member for Kawana, and the Honourable Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Adrian Schrinner and Inspector Damien Houston, Officer in charge of the City Patrol Group, all eloquently delivered a speech about Diwali celebrations and the Indian Community that resonated well with the attendees.

To mark the special occasion, the Brisbane City Council lit up City Hall, King George Square, Victoria Bridge, and Story Bridge with the Indian tricolours, creating a festive and captivating atmosphere.

Annually, more than 15,000 people of Indian

origin and members of the wider Southeast Queensland community participate in the event, underscoring the festival's enduring success.

Despite the presence of rain this year, it failed to diminish the enthusiasm and energy of the attendees.

Dhol Tasha Sunshine Coast accorded dignitaries a Dhol Tasha honour while the expansive crowd joyously partook in and commemorated the festivities.

Culinary and cultural entertainment played a pivotal role in the celebrations, unfolding throughout the day with

diverse food offerings, songs, and dance performances representing various regions of India.

Recognising the relentless efforts of the FICQ committee members over several months, Mr. Anoop Nannuru, President of FICQ, expressed, "Diwali holds immense significance for the Indian community, and organising such a grand event is an enormous undertaking. From securing funds to ensuring financial viability to the meticulous execution and subsequent cleanup, each step requires tremendous effort.

Additionally, the

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crucial role played by the families of the committee members is noteworthy. It's truly gratifying to witness the unified support of the Indian

community during this Diwali celebration. We extend our gratitude to all committee members, advisors, member organisation

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 35

Kannada Rajyotsava and Deepavali 2023

Kannada Rajyotsava and Deepavali, organised by Kannada Sangha Queensland on 5th Nov 2023 at Coorparoo Secondary College, captivated audiences and marked a resounding success, celebrating

Karnataka's statehood and the Festival of Lights with fervour and enthusiasm.

The festivities started with vibrant colours, traditional music and dance performances that showcased the State's rich heritage, creating an

Jitendra Deo nominated for the Community Hero Award

Jitendra Deo, chairperson of Deo Family Charitable Foundation - was a Nominee in the prestigious Australia Pacific LNG Community Hero Award by Luke Twyford, Chief Executive & Principal Commissioner, Queensland Family & Child Commission, at the 2023 Queensland Community Achievement Awards Gala Presentation Dinner held Friday 17th November 2023 at the Royal on the Park Brisbane.

The Awards were

hosted by Kendall Gilding, a 7NEWS Presenter, and 350 guests gathered from across the State to celebrate Queensland's high achievers and community contributors.

Deo Family Charitable Foundation, led by Jitendra Deo, Chairperson, passionately celebrates Fijian culture through annual events like Girmit Remembrance Day and Fiji Day Celebrations, fostering community recognition and pride since 2021.

36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

atmosphere of joy and unity.

The event commemorated Karnataka's linguistic and cultural diversity and fostered a sense of pride and belonging among the Kannada-speaking community in Queensland.

Families dressed in traditional attire added to the splendour, bringing alive the spirit of Deepavali.

A diverse range of cultural activities engaged attendees throughout the day. The Kannada Sangha's commitment to inclusivity was evident in the varied program, catering to the tastes of a broad audience.

Team Aigiri - PresidentSowmya Gowda, Vice President -Vardhinedi NagaJyothi, Secretary JayChandra Rathnakar, Treasurer Sushma Shankar, PRORoopa Rao have all worked tirelessly to ensure smooth operations, while the attendees' enthusiasm and support created an infectious energy.

Karnataka's famous singers, Shashikala Sunil and Chethan Naik's performances, set against the backdrop of Kannada Rajyotsava and Deepavali celebrations, contributed to making the event a holistic cultural experience. The echoes of their performances lingered as a harmonious reminder of the state's musical legacy.

The event's main attraction featured a brief video presentation by Brisbane Kannada Shale led by Sneha Mahesh along with volunteers Ramya Anil and Chinmaya M Hegde, spotlighting the impressive talents and newly acquired language skills of the children in reading and writing Kannada. Since its establishment in February 2023, Brisbane Kannada Shaale has achieved a significant milestone, with the kids even sending handwritten Kannada letters to their grandparents in India.

Joe Kelly, MP for Greenslopes; Councillor Fiona Cunningham from Coorparoo ward; Councillor Angela Owen, representing Calamvale ward; and Prakruthi Gururaj, the representative for Stretton MP James Martin, along with Anoop Nannuru- the President of FICQ, were honoured as chief guests at the event. KSQ also warmly welcomed representatives from various organizations, sponsors, and our supporters, Umesh Chandra OAM and Usha Chandra from Brisbane Indian Times, who graced the occasion with their presence.

Kannada Sangha Queensland's dedication to organising a memorable celebration was evident in every detail. As attendees departed with hearts full of cultural pride and

The event commemorated Karnataka's linguistic and cultural diversity and fostered a sense of pride and belonging among the Kannadaspeaking community in Queensland.

Families dressed in traditional attire added to the splendour, bringing alive the spirit of Deepavali.

A diverse range of cultural activities engaged attendees throughout the day. The Kannada Sangha's commitment to inclusivity was evident in the varied program, catering to the tastes of a broad audience. memories, the event stood as a testament to the vibrancy of Karnataka's heritage and the unity of the Kannada-speaking community in Queensland.

Rang - Colours of Indian Music – a presentation

by Infusion Queensland Multicultural Centre (QMC) was ablaze with vibrant hues and resonant melodies on the evening of November 18, 2023, as Infusion - World Music presented "Rang - Colours of Indian Music." This enchanting concert took the audience on a spellbinding musical journey, weaving emotions seamlessly with a palette of melodies and rhythms.

The band consisted of 8 members: Ash Saroch (Vocal), Binny Jaradi (Vocal), Parth Raval (Keys and producer), Chetan Ramlu (Drums), Darshil Shah (Bansuri), Souvik Ray (Lead Guitar), Satheesh Bastiampillai (Bass) and Kush Sami (Percussion).

The audience was treated to a unique fusion of classical and contemporary Indian music, masterfully blended to evoke a spectrum of emotions associated with different colors. Infusion - World Music, known for its innovative approach to cultural musical fusion, brought together a talented ensemble of musicians

who showcased the rich tapestry of Indian music with a modern twist.

The concept of associating emotions with colors added an extra layer of depth to the performance.

Each segment of the concert was dedicated to a specific emotion, seamlessly woven into the fabric of the music. From love to anger, nostalgia to unity, Infusion was able to take the audience through a journey like no other by a local band. Their vision was to present something completely unique and deliver international-level quality to their Brisbane audience.

The highlight of the evening was the collaboration of traditional Indian instruments with more contemporary elements, such as keys, synthesizers, bass and drums.

This fusion of old and new not only showcased the versatility of Indian music but also appealed to a diverse audience, bridging the gap between generations and musical preferences.

The concert reached its crescendo with a grand finale, leaving the

audience breathless. The fusion of instruments, the interplay of melodies, and the sheer energy on stage were a testament to the musical prowess of Infusion - World Music.

The standing ovation that followed was a collective expression of gratitude for an evening that was as visually stunning as it was sonically captivating.

"Rang - Colours of Indian Music" was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of diversity, a fusion of cultures, and a

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testament to the universal language of music. Infusion World Music succeeded in taking the audience on an emotional journey, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to be present at the Queensland Multicultural Centre on this magical night.

Please follow them on their social media pages @ infusion.au to follow their incredible work, or email them at infusionmusicau@ gmail.com to book them for your next event!

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 37

Rajnath Singh unveils crest of navy’s new destroyer Imphal New Delhi: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday unveiled the crest of stealth guided missile destroyer Imphal ahead of the warship’s commissioning.

Defence Mmnister Rajnath Singh unveiled the crest of Indian Navy’s stealth guided missile destroyer Imphal on Tuesday. (X/@ rajnathsingh) The Indian Navy received Imphal from Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, its first warship with separate accommodation for women

sailors, on October 20.

Stay tuned with breaking news on HT Channel on Facebook. Join Now The crest design depicts the Kangla Palace on the left and ‘Kangla-Sa’ on the right, the defence ministry said in a statement, while explaining its significance.

Kangla Palace is an important historical and archaeological site of Manipur and was the traditional seat of the kingdom. With a dragon’s head and lion’s body, the ‘Kangla-Sa’ is a mythical being and is symbolic as

All 41 workers trapped in Uttarakhand tunnel evacuated after 17 days

The 17-day long wait for the 41 workers trapped in the Silkyara tunnel of Uttarakhand finally ended on Tuesday.

All the workers have been evacuated by the rescuers following a gruelling operation.

Munna Qureshi, a rat miner from Delhi, was the first one to reach to the other side.

Stay tuned with breaking news on HT Channel on Facebook. Join Now “I removed the last rock. I could see them. Then i went to the other side. I couldn’t They hugged us, lifted us.

And thanked us for taking us out. We worked continuously in the last 24 hours. I can’t express my happiness. I have done it for my country,” he said. “The respect they (trapped workers) have given us, I can’t forget my whole life,” he told HT. Prior to the first evacuation, the personnel from the SDRF and NDRF had entered the tunnel with stretchers.

Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Union minister VK Singh were present to welcome the workers.

Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari took to social media platform X to thank the agencies involved in the rescue operations.

“I am completely relieved and happy as 41 trapped laborers in the Silkyara Tunnel Collapse have been successfully rescued. This was a well-coordinated

I removed the last rock. I could see them.

Then i went to the other side. I couldn’t They hugged us, lifted us.

And thanked us for taking us out. We worked continuously in the last 24 hours. I can’t express my happiness. effort by multiple agencies, marking one of the most significant rescue operations in recent years. Various departments and agencies complemented each other despite facing numerous challenges. Tireless and sincere efforts by everyone, coupled with prayers from all, have made this operation possible.

The dedicated endeavors of the rescue teams have yielded favorable results,” he said.

Celebrations erupted as locals distributed sweets outside Silkyara tunnel as trapped workers are being rescued from the tunnel.

A portion of the tunnel had caved in on November 12, with the debris falling in the 60-metre stretch on the Silkyara side of the tunnel, thereby trapping 41 labourers inside the underconstruction structure.

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

protector of its people.

‘Kangla-Sa’ is also the state emblem of Manipur.

Imphal, which will

get the ‘INS’ prefix after getting commissioned, is the third of the four warships sanctioned under

an important project called P-15B aimed at boosting the navy’s capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao have already been commissioned. Surat, the fourth one, is under construction.

Singh unveiled the crest in the presence of Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh, chief of defence staff General Anil Chauhan and navy chief Admiral R Hari Kumar.

Imphal’s crest is a befitting tribute to the sacrifice made by the people

of Manipur towards India’s independence, sovereignty and security, the statement added.

The ship has an indigenous content of around 75% including its medium range surfaceto-air missiles, BrahMos missiles, torpedo tube launchers, anti-submarine rocket launchers and 76mm super rapid gun mount. The destroyer has a displacement of 7,400 tonnes, length of 164 metres and top speed of more than 30 knots. It can carry a crew of 312.

You treated me like mother’: Sonia Gandhi's appeal to Telangana voters Emphasizing the context of Telangana's formation in 2014, Gandhi asserted that the Congress party had delivered on its commitment to the people of the state.

Former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday appealed to the voters of Telangana, urging them to support the grand old party in the upcoming assembly elections on November 30.

Emphasising the historical context of Telangana's formation in 2014 after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, Gandhi asserted that the Congress had delivered on its commitment to the people of the state. Gandhi further said that she is grateful to the people of Telangana for their love and respect.

In a two-minute video message on X, she said, "Namaskaram, my dear

sisters and brothers of Telangana, I could not come among you all but I am very close to your hearts. Today I want to say something to you.

I want to see the dream of the martyred sons of Mother Telangana fulfilled."

"I sincerely wish that we all convert 'Dorala' Telangana into 'Prajala' Telangana (from a Telangana of landlords to that of people's). Make

your dreams come true and give you a true and honest government," the Congress leader said.

"You have given me immense respect by calling me Sonia Amma. You treated me like a mother, I will always be grateful to you for this love and respect and will remain dedicated to you forever,” she added.

“I request our sisters,

mothers, sons, daughters and brothers of Telangana to use all their power this time to bring about a change. Vote for the Congress. 'Marpu Kavali - Congress Ravali',” Sonia Gandhi said in her message.

The message from the chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party came on the final day of campaigning in the southern state, where the BRS holds authority.

The video message was also shared by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on X. "Message from Telangana's own 'Sonia Amma' to the people of the state," the leader captioned his post.

Telangana is poised for a three-way electoral involving the BJP, the incumbent BRS, and the Congress on November 30. The counting of votes will take place on December 3.

India, US seek to deepen space ties as NASA chief kicks off key visit New Delhi: India and the US on Tuesday held talks on deepening space collaboration with focus on the proposed role of an Indian astronaut who will be trained

by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and will fly to the International Space Station next year, a top US official said, adding that the two countries will launch a low earth orbit observatory from India in early 2024.

NASA administrator Bill Nelson (Getty file photo) NASA administrator Bill Nelson (Getty file photo) A NASA delegation, led by administrator Bill Nelson, held a meeting with minister of state for science and technology Jitendra Singh and discussed space cooperation.

“I had a discussion with the minister on what the Indian astronaut would do on the space station. And the two of us talked about the fact that

things that are important to India in scientific research, the Indian astronaut ought to have that as a choice to do. If there is a particular part of research that he or she would be interested in, then I want to encourage that,” Nelson said during a media interaction.

He called India “a great future partner for astronauts in space.”

Nelson asked Singh to expedite the programme related to sending India’s first

astronaut aboard a NASA rocket to ISS, the Indian department of space said in a statement.

“NASA will help train the Indian astronaut to fly to ISS by end of 2024. Those details are being worked out. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will announce that,” Nelson said.

He said the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) observatory would be launched in the first quarter

of 2024. NISAR completed a key trial at ISRO’s compact antenna test facility in midNovember.

“In the first quarter of 2024, in a joint venture, India will launch a very expensive spacecraft, NISAR, and it is part of what we call our great observatories. And the combination of these four or five observatories that will be put up, and all our 25 spacecraft looking at the Earth...the combination of all that information...is helping us precisely determine what is happening to the Earth and its climate,” Nelson said.

Nelson earlier called India “a leader in space.”

“Touchdown in India!

Ready to embark on a week of engaging meetings and events to grow @NASA’s partnership with @isro. India is a leader in space and we’re looking forward to a productive visit,” he wrote on X.

DIWALI CELEBRATION 2023 by Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan Qld Inc (DJJS) Diwali celebrations, initiated in 2021 by DJJS and James Martin, continued to flourish.

In conclusion, heartfelt thanks are extended to His Holiness Ashutosh Maharaj Ji, the Head and Founder of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS). His divine guidance serves as the bedrock of our achievements, providing strength and illumination to every volunteer present at the event.

On November 12, 2023, Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan Qld Inc (DJJS) joyously celebrated Diwali at DJJS Ashram, marking a significant day in the Indian calendar and culture. The event delved into profound lessons about life, practical spirituality, and the divine essence within the human form, conveyed through engaging anecdotes and uplifting devotional music, aligning with the festival's symbolism of light triumphing over darkness.

The celebration attracted many community members, giving special recognition to our esteemed guest, James Martin. The tradition of Home

DJJS has been steadfast in its mission for 31 years, with millions of volunteers in India and around the Globe.

DJJS is doing and has done several social and spiritual events together with the Government of India and other state governments in India.

IN AUSTRALIA: DJJS’s has been actively working in the community for more than 8 years now.

It has been organising and participating in various social, cultural, and spiritual events like Shiv Aaradhna, Mata Ki Chowki, Bhajan Sandhya, Sai Sandhya, Indian New Year, Krishan Janamasthmi across different cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and here in Brisbane.

Furthermore, we have been organising the International Day of Yoga for the last 6 years now, and our event pictures of 2019 were even shared by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, from his Twitter account.

Thank you very much to everyone who took the time to be there on the auspicious evening.

ABOUT DJJS: Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan or DJJS as we call it, is a registered socio-spiritual, not-for-profit organisation.

DJJS’s Vision is from ‘From Self Awakening to Global Peace’ Our Vision is “To usher into a world wherein every individual becomes an embodiment of truth, fraternity, and justice through the eternal science of selfrealisation called Brahm Gyan, uprooting all social evils and threats in its wake.

'Brahm Gyan’ is an eternal technique through which we can practically experience and realise God. These are not mere words.

THE HON PETER DUTTON MP VISIT TO INDIA The Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Peter Dutton MP, recently concluded a highly productive visit to New Delhi, India.

The trip reinforced the Coalition’s commitment to fostering stronger ties between Australia and India.

During the visit, Mr

Dutton engaged in a series of high-level meetings and discussions with Indian Government Ministers, business leaders, and key stakeholders to explore opportunities for enhanced partnerships, particularly in trade, investment, and the potential for collaboration across various sectors.

Accompanied by Indian

Meeting with Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Indian Minister for External Affairs

Meeting with Shri Suman Bery - Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog

business leaders from Australia, Mr Dutton visited the iconic Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, a spiritual and cultural complex. The visit underscored the importance of cultural exchange and appreciation for India's rich heritage.

Mr Dutton paid respects at Gurdwara Sri Bangla

Sahib, one of the most prominent Sikh gurdwaras in Delhi, emphasising the Coalition’s commitment to religious diversity and unity.

Addressing faculty and students of The Centre for India-Australia Studies of O.P. Jindal Global University’, Mr Dutton gave a public lecture on the theme of

Coalition's commitment to nurturing friendship and cooperation with India, laying the groundwork for an enduring and mutually beneficial relationship for both nations.

During the visit, Mr Dutton was accompanied by the Hon Jason Wood MP, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs.

Visiting the Swaminarayan Akshardham

Meeting with Vinod Daniel OAM, volunteers and students at an India Vision Institute “Eye See & I Learn” charity event

Presenting a lecture on India-Australia relations to faculty and students from the Centre for India-Australia Studies at Jindal Global University

Visiting the Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib Call: (07) 3192 5188

‘India-Australia Relations’.

Launching the India Vision Institute (IVI) campaign, ‘Eye See & I Learn’, Mr Dutton attended the Nava Hind Government Girls Senior Secondary School at Karol Bagh and distributed free spectacles to the children.

Mr Dutton's visit to India highlights the

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 39

FOCUS ON FIJI

Pope forced to pull out of COP28 trip because of health issues Vatican City (Reuters) – Pope Francis has cancelled his planned trip to the COP28 climate meeting in Dubai because of the effects of influenza and lung inflammation, the Vatican said on Tuesday, adding to concerns about his health.

The pope, who is 86, was due to begin a three-day visit to Dubai on Friday and the Vatican had said earlier on Tuesday that he was going ahead with the trip.

“Although the Holy Father’s general clinical condition has improved with regard to the flu and inflammation of the respiratory tract, doctors have asked the pope not to

make the trip planned for the coming days to Dubai,” the Vatican said.

The pope had agreed not to travel “with great regret,” it added, saying that it would look into ways that the leader of the world’s Roman Catholics could contribute to the discussions remotely.

In a briefing earlier on Tuesday, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni had said Francis would deliver one of the keynote speeches in Dubai on Saturday and have bilateral meetings the same day with about 30 people, including about 20 heads of state.

The pope had also met

with Spanish bishops visiting the Vatican on Tuesday.

CONCERN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT The pope has made protection of the environment one of the cornerstones of his pontificate.

In a document issued in October, Francis had appealed to climate change deniers and foot-dragging politicians to have a change of heart, saying they cannot gloss over its human causes or deride scientific facts while the planet “may be nearing the breaking point”.

Francis also said the transition to clean, renewable

energy and the abandonment of fossil fuels was not going fast enough.

The Vatican had announced on Monday the pope would limit his activities this week in order to conserve his strength after contracting the flu.

A CT scan done at a Rome hospital on Saturday excluded pneumonia but detected inflammation in the pope’s lungs that caused breathing difficulties. He was receiving antibiotics intravenously, the Vatican said on Monday.

As a young man in his native Argentina, Francis had part of a lung removed.

More investment Automated Clearing House goes live; needed to address allows instant interbank transactions gender-based violence – Puna

The new National Payment System’s Automated Clearing House (ACH) is now live, which means bank customers are able to carry out instant interbank transactions up to a specified limit.

These transactions can be carried out between one bank to another, 24 hours a day and seven days a week; and applicable for those banks that had implemented straightthrough processing in its own environment.

The Reserve Bank of Fiji announced the go live of the ACH this week, marking the culmination of the banking industry and the central bank’s collective efforts over the last three years to digitally transform Fiji’s payment system, and increase efficiency to support the domestic economy.

RBF governor Ariff Ali says the ACH is the second of two major components introduced – the first being the Real Time Gross Settlement System (RTGS), and the Central Securities Depository launched in November last year.

Mr Aki said businesses were expected to see efficiencies in operations attributed to reduced cash handling costs, increased speed of operations, quicker and improved payment processing because of interoperability between the banks and the implementation of straightthrough processing.

He said the system would form the pipeline for channeling approximately $200billion worth of transactions annually.

“Increased interoperability is fundamental to driving payments efficiency. We saw a dramatic increase in transactions with the launch of the upgraded RTGS and anticipate this to

grow even further within the first few months after this go live,” Mr Ali said in a statement.

“This improved infrastructure will help bolster business and retail transactions since it has the potential to handle increased volumes of digital payments seamlessly.”

Westpac chief executive Shane Smith said the second phase of the NPS project provided an exciting opportunity for banks and customers to see the effects of having a payment system that provided fast and efficient exchange of funds within a reasonable timeframe.

BSP Country Head and current Association

of Banks (ABIF) in Fiji Chairman Haroon Ali said all Fijians would enjoy the wide-ranging benefits of the ACH facility.

“Some significant advantages it delivers include the immediate availability and readiness of funds for transactions between customers, irrespective of whether these occur within or outside standard business hours.

For instance, individuals can promptly access their wages/salaries, and utilise them on the same day. Similarly, small businesses can expect improved cash flow management with the elimination of processing delays,” Mr Ali said.

Mr Ali said the RBF, with the assistance of its development partner – International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group, had consulted and collaborated extensively with the ABIF and Montran Corporation, the vendors of the system, on the business processes, technology and infrastructure to enable a successful go live.

AI threat demands new approach to security designs -US official Ottawa (Reuters) – The potential threat posed by the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) means safeguards need to be built in to systems from the start rather than tacked on later, a top U.S. official said on Monday.

“We’ve normalized a world where technology products come off the line full of vulnerabilities and then consumers are expected to patch those

vulnerabilities.

We can’t live in that world with AI,” said Jen Easterly, director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

“It is too powerful, it is moving too fast,” she said in a telephone interview after holding talks in Ottawa with Sami Khoury, head of Canada’s Centre for Cyber Security.

Easterly spoke the same day that agencies from 18

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

countries, including the United States, endorsed new British-developed guidelines on AI cyber security that focus on secure design, development, deployment and maintenance.

“We have to look at security throughout the lifecycle of that AI capability,” Khoury said.

Earlier this month, leading AI developers agreed to work with governments to test new frontier models

before they are released to help manage the risks of the rapidly developing technology.

“I think we have done as much as we possibly could do at this point in time, to help come together with nations around the world, with technology companies, to set out from a technical perspective how to build these build these capabilities as securely and safely as possible,” said Easterly.

With the awareness of the prevalence of violence against women and girls in the Pacific region, the Pacific Islands Forum has called for more investment into this area of addressing gender-based violence.

PIF secretary-general Henry Puna made the comment as the world commemorates the 2023 United Nations 16 days of activism.

He said the theme this year – ‘Invest to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls’ – was a timely one for the Blue Pacific Continent.

“We all know that a Blue Pacific Continent that is thriving and working towards achieving our leaders 2050 vision for a resilient Pacific region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion, and prosperity must include our women and girls in all their diversity,” Mr Puna said.

“Investing to prevent gender-based violence must involve our families and communities.

“Survivors of violence must receive the services required.

“Perpetrators must be held to account.

“An essential part of accountability is confidence in the security and rule of law offered by our governments.

It also includes continued advocacy and the involvement of men and boys.

“We need continued support for initiatives that work, as we know that intergenerational change takes time.”

Mr Puna said to invest in preventing gender-based violence and violence against women and girls was to invest in families, clans, tribes, and communities – “to ensure that all citizens of our Blue Pacific Continent can contribute to building our communities, countries, and region; to accelerate action to take a solid and united stand against violence in all its forms”.

“As we call for more investment, more action, and more solutions, let us also recognise the efforts of all those who have been at the forefront of addressing gender-based violence in our region, including feminists and women’s rights activists who have often been the target of harassment and intimidation because of their work.”

At the regional level, Mr Puna said the Forum leaders had endorsed the 2050 Strategy Implementation Plan (IP) and the revitalised Pacific Leaders Gender Equality Declaration.

“These two critical regional frameworks provide the impetus for us to continue to collectively invest our time and resources to ensure that we work towards a Blue Pacific Continent that is safe and free for all.”

Uttar Pradesh Association of Australia (QLD Chapter) inaugurated The Uttar Pradesh Association of Australia (QLD Chapter) was inaugurated on 28th Oct 2023 during their 1st Diwali Celebration as the UP Community. It was founded by Ms Tanvi Goel (Founder of AusIndia Travel, Vice President of Bharath Jagruthi Australia and part of many Indian organizations such as ICAQ, APQI to name a few and a very active community leader for the past 12 years) and Mr Gurpreet Singh(Owner- QLD Skips Hire) back in December 2022.

UPAA-QLD has legends like Ms Sneha Gautam, Ms Sonam Agarwal and Mr Pasupati Nath Dwivedi, who are building the UP community with passion.

In the last ten months, the team has gathered over one hundred people from the UP community with just two catchups. UPAA was first started in Victoria by Dr Santosh and the team in 2016, and together, the team is growing to another part of Australia.

The event was held at Desi Junction, Logan Central and was adorned with colourful lights, rangolis, and diyas, which added to the festive atmosphere.

The celebration began with a traditional Lakshmi puja, followed by a game

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performance by the Tapori Dance group, a DJ who played popular Bollywood songs. One of the most popular games was “Tambola,” similar to Bingo. The game was played

with great enthusiasm, and the winners were awarded prizes.

The Brisbane Inaugural event was graced by many delegates, including a well-

known personality in the Indian Diaspora, Pinky Singh Ji(Immigration policy chair for LNP), Mr Ganesh Despande (Secretary of Indian Council of Australia, President

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of BRIMM), Mr Pankaj Agarwal(President of APQI) to name a few, they cut the ribbon to unveil the banner of UPAA (Qld Chapter) with a short speech. They congratulated

the UPAA on the chapter's launch and passed on best wishes for Diwali.

The event was not only sponsored but generously supported by many sponsors including Mahindra Automotive, Education Embassy, QLD Skip hires, AusIndia Travel, Divya Jyoti Jagruti Sansthan, Northside Mechanicals & Tyres, Loaney Home loan expert, Blue Sky Solar, Customised Gifts co, Salt N Spice Indian and Islander groceries, Events by HKM, Indian Mums Connect, Priyanka Boutique, Brisbane Indian Times, and Australian Indian Radio, Parikh Digital Photography beautifully captured the event.

The event was full of many prizes for kids and adults; it was fun with a sumptuous dinner and a U.P.-style DJ dance party by DJ Sandy of DesiBeats.

In conclusion, the Diwali celebration in UP style was a grand success. It brought together people from different communities and cultures to celebrate this joyous occasion. The event was filled with music, dance, food, and fun games that added to the festive atmosphere. It truly captured the essence of Diwali - spreading happiness and joy.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 41

Minister Malla Reddy asks Ranbir Kapoor to shift to Hyderabad at Animal event; sparks controversy for saying, “Telugu people will rule over India”

Marking the first collaboration of Ranbir Kapoor and South filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Animal is garnering enough eyeballs not only among Hindi-speaking audiences but also in the South.

Amid extensive promotions across all these film industries, Ranbir was seen in Hyderabad for one of the film’s events which was also attended by superstar Mahesh Babu and megastar filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli.

During the same, a politician named Malla Reddy seems to have grabbed a lot of attention for his speech, wherein he called ‘Telugu people smarter’ than others.

In the video, Malla Reddy is seen addressing the audience wherein he told Ranbir Kapoor to shift to Hyderabad because, according to him, soon the entire Telugu-speaking clan will be ruling India. In his speech he said, “Ranbir ji, aapko ek baat bolna chahta hu. Agla paanch saal mein, poore Hindustan ko, Bollywood, Hollywood, poora ruling karega humara Telugu people. Aap bhi ek

saal ke baad Hyderabad shift hona padta. Kyu bole toh Bombay purana ho gaya.

Bangalore traffic jam ho gaya. Hindustan mein ek hi city hai woh hai Hyderabad (Ranbir Sir, I want to tell you one thing. In the next five years, Telugu people will rule the entire of India, Bollywood, Hollywood, everything. After one year, you will also end up shifting to Hyderabad. Now, Bombay has become old, Bangalore has traffic jam, so now there is only one city in India and it is Hyderabad).

Many netizens, who came across this speech on social media, reacted to the same, wherein some of them even pointed out the visible embarrassment faced by Mahesh Babu and S.S. Rajamouli during Reddy’s speeches. A few others also appreciated Ranbir Kapoor for taking the comments in his stride without reacting and passing it off with a smile. On the other hand, some users were clearly upset with Reddy for discriminating with his audience and demeaning other film industries.

Javed Akhtar to walk down memory lane with ‘Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaoon’, a nostalgic evening of music and stories On December 29, 2023, Padma Bhushan awardee, legendary screenwriter, lyricist and celebrated poet Javed Akhtar will host ‘Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaoon’, an evening brimming with unheard stories behind famous songs and songs that led to unforgettable stories. He will delve deep into his treasure-trove to share golden trivia about magical collaborations with iconic composers, musicians, singers, directors, and actors.

Singers Meiyang Chang and Jahanvi Shrimankar, along with a live band, will layer this evening of never heard before anecdotes, with renditions of classic songs. The event, presented by Saregama Live, will be held from 7 pm onwards at Mumbai’s Sri Shanmukhananda Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Auditorium.

Sharing more about the

show, Javed Akhtar said, “With the passage of time, memories gain a certain compelling power and ever so often, I find myself reliving musical sittings, conversations and moments of serendipity that led to the songs that are now considered iconic. Usually, songs are a part of a film's story but many a time, they too have a story of their own and it will be a joy to share some of them with the audience.

This will be a lively, freeflowing conversation that will celebrate stalwart composers, singers, producers and actors that I have had the pleasure to closely collaborate with.”

42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

Vicky Kaushal REACTS to Sam Bahadur clashing with Ranbir Kapoor-led Animal at the box office: “The audience will decide” Actor Vicky Kaushal is set for the third release of the year. In Sam Bahadur, he will embody the role of Field Marshall Sam Manekshaw in Meghna Gulzar’s director.

The film hits the cinemas on December 1, clashing with Animal starring Ranbir Kapoor which is being directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. It is going to be a biopic vs a gangster drama in theatres. However, Vicky isn’t too worried about the clash.

Speaking to The Indian Express, giving an example of sports, Vicky said, “When two opening batsmen come to the crease, playing for the same team, you won’t say that the two batsmen are

clashing with each other; they are playing for a single team, so we are playing for Hindi cinema.” When asked which film will hit big at the box office, Vicky said, “The audience will decide.”

Sam Bahadur is based on the life of Sam Manekshaw whose military career spanned four decades and five wars. He was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field

Marshal and the decisive victory of the Indian Army in the 1971 Indo-Pak war was under his command as Chief of Army Staff. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan and the Padma Bhushan, the second and third highest civilian awards in India.

Produced by RSVP Movies, the film will hit the theatres on 1st December 2023. The film also stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh. Sanya Malhotra will play his wife, Silloo – Manekshaw’s pillar and strength. Fatima Sana Shaikh steps into the shoes of Indira Gandhi, the country’s first female Prime Minister.

Rashmika Mandanna says it is scary to see deepfake videos: “They have been around for a while and we’ve normalised them but it isn’t okay” Rashmika Mandanna has been promoting her upcoming film Animal and recently opened up about Deepfake videos. A widely circulated video of the actress entering an elevator was an artificial intelligence (AI) deepfake video where her face was morphed into the face of a social media content creator....

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Suhana Khan turns singer for her debut film The Archies; croons ‘Jab Tum Na Theen’: “Please listen with kindness” Suhana Khan, daughter of Shah Rukh Khan, is all set to make her debut with Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies.

She brings Veronica Lodge to life in Hindi adaptation of the comic. Ahead of the movie’s release, the makers launched the music album of the film on November 26.

And turns out, along with her acting debut, Suhana has also crooned a song for the film.

Suhana Khan announced that she made her singing debut with The Archies.

Along with her co-star Dot, who is a singer, Suhana has crooned the song ‘Jab Tum Na Theen’. Sharing the news, she wrote on Instagram, “I sang my first song!!

Thank you @zoieakhtar & @shankar.mahadevan for

being so patient with me.

Please listen with kindness.”

The Archies will have as many as 16 songs as the musical adaptation gears up for the release. The film’s ensemble cast includes Dot (Aditi), Agastya Nanda, Khushi Kapoor, Mihir Ahuja, Suhana Khan, Vedang Raina and Yuvraj Menda along with the filmmaker Zoya Akhtar,

Release Date Movie Name 10 NOV 2023 Pippa 12 NOV 2023 Tiger 3 15 NOV 2023 Apurva 17 NOV 2023 Khichdi 2 23 NOV 2023 Antony 24 NOV 2023 Starfish

Audience Score 74 78 0 67 50 0

Reema Kagti, and music team, Shankar-EhsaanLoy, Ankur Tewari, Tejas and Shivam Mahadevan unveiled the 16-song album amidst the huge crowd from the industry, media, and influencers on November 26.

The gala event kicked off with a tete-a-tete with Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and the music team Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and Ankur Tewari. The evening witnessed the cast dancing to the electrifying tunes of ‘Va Va Voom’. Suhana Khan, Agastya Nanda, and Khushi Kapoor danced to the tunes of ‘Asymmetrical’ sung by DOT. Additionally, Ankur Tewari and Tejas gave a smashing performance and had the audience cheering in and crooning along to ‘Choona

Aasman’ and ‘Sunoh’, ensuring that the evening became a memorable musical experience for everyone in attendance.

The event culminated with the entire cast singing to 'Plum Pudding'. Their infectious energy and stage presence left the audience eager for more, further increasing the excitement for the film. Videos of these performances soon hit the internet, teasing fans with a glimpse of the musical extravaganza. The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the song 'Dhishoom Dhishoom', featuring Dot, Suhana Khan and Khushi Kapoor dancing on roller skates opened to enthralling responses from everyone present.

Release Date Movie Name 24 NOV 2023 Yaatris 25 NOV 2023 Farrey 24 NOV 2023 Fire of Love: RED 24 NOV 2023 Bombay 01 DEC 2023 Animal 01 DEC 2023 Sam Bahadur

Audience Score 29 25 0 29 75 68

Brand Bollywood Downunder premiers at Parliament House Canberra Director Anupam Sharma said, “After crisscrossing Australia for two weeks, Red carpets, screenings in parliaments, panel discussions, national film festival, and releasing in over 40 screens around Australia and NZ Brand Bollywood Downunder crew was honoured to be hosted

by Andrew Charlton MP with screening in Parliament House Canberra theatre.

MC ied by amazing Khushaal Vyas on Monday the 13th afternoon, 1st day of parliament, back in session, meant we had a few guests who mattered, including CEOs of film agencies, India Australia Business & Community Alliance alumni, Indians in Australia High Commission execs with the Deputy High Commissioner and our producer and stars watching the film on the big screen.

What an inspiring, energising highlight of our film's journey, which has just begun. After the theatrical

season, we still have weekend screenings at some iconic theatres in November and December. Jan...and Feb ...check out our website, please.

Thank you, Hon. Andrew Charlton, Parliamentary

Friends of India, Sonia Sadiq Gandhi Umesh Chandra OAM”.

Umesh Chandra OAM represented Brisbane Indian Times and Australian Indian Radio at the premier event. The film captures

and documents the different Modus operandi of Indian filmmakers to their counterparts in Australia. Has the regulatory framework of Australia been a deterrent in this relationship?

Life celebrates 45 years of humanitarian achievement

Life Global Australia is poised to celebrate a year of outstanding achievements. This follows the acknowledgement of 45 years of humanitarian work

by Life Global Australia’s onthe-ground partner charity, Project Life.

“The crusade to change lives continues,” declared Project Life Advisory Board Chair, Jaya Bachchan.

As Project Life enters its 45th year, Bachchan took the opportunity to list the charity’s achievements in health, education, prisoner rehabilitation and environmental rejuvenation.

Since establishing the Project Life Blood Centre in 1981, Project “Life” has delivered 690,000 units of blood and blood components.

In 2020, the Centre received a prestigious ISBT Award for Developing Countries, recognizing its world-class equipment and commitment to providing scientifically validated processes.

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Project Life identified that the region in which it was based has a high prevalence of the blood disorder, thalassemia, and established the Life Thalassemia Prevention Centre in 1993. Thalassemia is an incurable heritable blood disorder in which there is a faulty synthesis of haemoglobin. A child who inherits the disorder from both parents is susceptible to bone deformities, delayed or stunted physical growth, lowered immunity and general weakness. To reduce the number of children likely to inherit the disorder, the Centre has now conducted 704,000 thalassemia screening tests and raised awareness of the condition and how to prevent it. Project Life’s ambitious goal is to eradicate thalassemia from the region and from India.

Recognising the role of education in changing lives, Project Life has built 108 primary schools, and

empowered more than 11,000 less privileged women and widows through vocational training. In 2022, Project Life introduced a Post Graduate Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology through the Life Institute of Health Science.

“To meet tomorrow’s challenges, we act today,” said Bachchan. This has included conducting retreats for 7041 prisoners in 22 jails and distributing 274,000 trees for revegetation of degraded environments.

“Together we can make a difference,” said the Project Life Chair, noting that the organisation now has partner charities Life Global Australia, Life Global UK, Life Global Canada and Life Global USA. “Come and join us,” Bachchan said.

Life Global Australia (www.lifeglobal.org. au) is proud to share in the celebration of these achievements. www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 43

World AIDS Day: Celebrating Progress and Confronting Disparities

Each year, on the 1st of December, we observe World AIDS Day, a day dedicated to reaffirming the global commitment to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and striving for an HIV/ AIDS-free world.

Australia's Strides ahead in HIV/AIDS elimination Australia has emerged as a frontrunner in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, with a consistent decline in the

number of new infections over the years. In 2021, Australia reported a mere 552 new HIV diagnoses, representing a remarkable 48% decline since 2012, according to data from the Kirby Institute (www. kirby.unsw.edu.au).

This impressive reduction can be attributed to a multifaceted approach, including heightened awareness of HIV within at-risk populations, increased rates of HIV diagnosis and treatment,

and a growing uptake of Preexposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for prevention.

Challenges Remain: Addressing Disparities Despite Australia's commendable progress, certain challenges persist. A concerning trend is the lack of similar reductions in HIV infections among people born overseas living in Australia.

In addition, a significant portion of individuals in Queensland were diagnosed

late with HIV in 2022, having lived with the virus at least or more than four years without knowledge of their condition.

Currently, there more than 6,000 people living with HIV in Queensland. To address this disparity and encourage more individuals from overseas backgrounds to seek testing and treatment, the Queensland government has taken a significant step.

Starting in October 2023, Queensland Health initiated a program offering free HIV treatment and related care in public health facilities, such as public hospitals and sexual health clinics, to individuals without a Medicare Card.

This initiative aims to remove the financial barriers that previously prevented many people with HIV from accessing necessary treatment and care.

Eliminating HIV/AIDS: A Collective Effort To achieve the goal of eliminating HIV/AIDS in Australia, a collective effort is needed from all of us, for example: 1. Know your HIV Status: HIV testing is

imperative for preventing further infections and achieving better health outcomes.

Unfortunately, 10% of people living with HIV in Australia remain unaware of their infection.

In Australia, HIV testing is confidential and easily accessible through GPs and sexual health clinics. Selftesting kits are also available for purchase at atomohivtest. com.

2.

Initiate Treatment if HIV Positive: Current HIV treatments are highly effective in reducing the viral load in the blood and decreasing the risk of transmission. In Australia, these treatments are accessible at no cost for the majority of the populaion,

including people without a Medicare Card, if being treated at public health facilities (not at GPs). People undergoing treatment who maintain an undetectable viral load can no longer transmit the virus through sexual contact, known as "U=U." (Undetectable = Untransmittable).

3.

Prevention is Key: Use Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and condoms to prevent against HIV transmission.

In unity, we can collectively strive for an HIV/AIDS free world. World AIDS Day reminds us that the battle continues, and it is through our joint efforts that we can overcome this global health challenges.

Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)

Spring preparations for beautiful girls As the weather starts to warm up and the humidity in the air increases, it’s time to change your conditioning habits. It does not mean that you need to stop conditioning, just make a few adjustments.

Nimisha Modi

Hetvi Hair & Beauty 0412350013

Hey Girls, spring is just around the corner and this means that we will have to state preparing for it more properly. Cleaning the house is not the only thing that you will have to do. The best thing for your body right now is to start a cleansing and beauty program. One of the first things that you will have to do is to improve the way your hair looks.

With a different color of hair, you will look great. Some highlights will also make you look wonderful even if you don’t change the color of your hair radically. You could also opt for semi-permanent colouring (may be Heena colour) as it will help you go through a transition stage before you actually make the transformation.

Moisture Balance.

One of the hardest things to conquer with hair is proper moisture. Just when you get your hair all moisturized to combat the dry season, it gets wet and humid, and then the sun comes out and wreaks havoc on your locks.

As the weather starts to warm up and the humidity in the air increases, it’s time to change your conditioning habits. It does not mean that you need to stop conditioning, just make a few adjustments.

If you deep condition once a week in the winter months, change it to every other week. If you use a heavy daily conditioner in the dry season, try changing to a lighter moisture or balancing conditioner.

The rule of thumb with moisture is to listen to your hair. If you notice static, dry ends, a lot of tangles, or if your hair feels rough to the touch you are lacking moisture and need to add a deep conditioning treatment

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

or a moisturizing conditioner to your hair routine. If your hair is limp or oily, start cutting back on the moisture.

When you are not looking to change the color of your hair then you may want to change your make-up. For instance, you can use a little pick blush, some mascara and gloss and your look is done! You can also choose some colourful lipstick and nail polish upgrade your look a little bit. Just remember, sometimes less is more.

It is advisable to eat more vegetables in the spring and also, if you don’t have the habit of drinking 2l of water a day then you should start now. You might also want to resort to some specialized hydrating treatments for your hair in order to get rid of the dry hair. Clearly there are a lot of things that we have to take care of during the spring and these are just some of the most important issues.

So here we go, take care and look always beautiful.

PRET Awards Night and Charity Dinner Donations Breaks Record The third PRET Australia Awards Night took off at night from the Royal International Convention Centre on November 25, 2023, surpassing the previous fundraising targets.

The theme of this year's event was "Around the World", so when the guests went up the escalator to the second floor, they found that the entry had turned into the airport checkin counter of EVA Air, as well as the duty-free counter area of TF International and an airline VIP Lounge offering delicacies and snacks from all over the world! As the ground staff made announcements to urge boarding, the guests walked into the boarding gate and sat down across first class, business class, premium economy class and economy class tables The organizer, Paul Shih, said, “Our flight is probably the only one in the world with more business class seats than economy class! There were 71 tables, including 14 first-class tables and 32 business-class tables.

Business-class tables were sold out to sponsors as soon as they were launched. Many companies had to purchase premium-class or economyclass tables instead to participate. Many companies have expressed interest that they wanted to secure for a higher-level sponsorship early next time!

The event kicked off with an explosive performance by Uncle Club Band, sponsored

by Mr. Michael Chen, who operates a number of hotels, as in-flight entertainment!

The band sang classic songs from various countries that were very relevant to the theme, winning warm applause from all the passengers on the plane.

Taking over the stage were the four young hosts, Ocean, Angel, Alex and Sirlene, who were hosting for the third year. Many guests who had

Call: (07) 3192 5188

participated in the past years lamented that the young hosts back then had grown into tall young persons!

Boys were wearing captain's uniforms and girls wearing air stewardess uniforms, standing in a row explaining and demonstrating the safety instructions for the flight. The interesting demonstration allowed guests to see the improvements of these teenagers MC only aged 14 to 16 years old!

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner took the stage on behalf of Lord Mayor's Charitable Foundation; they thanked the guests present for their support and dedication to charity. Ms. Fu from YFG Shopping Centres took the stage to donate $20,000 on behalf of the company. Mrs Lisa Smith, the marketing director, presented a thankyou trophy to the mayor and his wife on behalf of Mrs Yuan Fu, who has been doing charity through the Loving Care Group for more than 20 years and on behalf of Mrs Fu, Mrs Smith also congratulated Paul Shih for winning the honour of being one of Taiwan's top ten outstanding overseas young person this year. Trudy Crooks, director of Resort Brokers, and Ms Shi Huang Liying, the 92-yearold grandma of Paul Shih who flew in from Taiwan, also came on stage to donate

big cheques to the Mayor's Charitable Foundation.

Paul Shih took the stage and introduced this year’s new Resort News FiveStar Property Manager Award. The winners are all outstanding property managers. This award is announced and presented by the editor-in-chief of Resort News, a professional property management magazine.

A new charity added to this year's dinner is FareShare. They specialise in saving produces from supermarkets and making delicious meal packs for charitable organisations to deliver to those who need them most. They provide millions of meals every year. This year, with the surge in homelessness, they need everyone’s support. All proceeds from selling raffle tickets at the dinner were donated to FareShare. Ms Barbara Chuang of BB Group and Jinding Group each donated AU$ 10,000, giving FareShare a total donation of more than $35,251.

Chairman Carl Wu presents APMA's Five-Star Onsite Manager Awards to outstanding onsite managers in recognition of their exceptional performance in serving landlords and tenants and in social responsibility.

The Outstanding Employee Award, co-organized by the Australian Taiwan

Chamber of Commerce in Queensland, was presented to employees on stage by the bosses to thank them for their contributions to the company, allowing the company to give back to society!

With the support of employees and clients, Jason Fu and Penny Huyan of GoldenWater Finance donated AUD 10,000 to the Mater Foundation for the third year. Mr. Michael Song from the newly participating diamond-level sponsor Cllix Hotels & Apartments has supported the bidding in previous years. This year, he donated $10,000 and bought the 5 nights holiday accommodation in Noosa during live auction. MIA Director Anita Huang and Mahoneys Lawyer also presented big cheques and participated in the bidding.

The items auctioned by Mater Hospital were a medical simulation training centre experience for eight people and a French lunch. After competition from many parties, Lennon Lin and new immigrant Mr. Hao Chao raised their bids by more than $10,000. In the end, they decided to donate $12,000 each.

Mater Foundation raised over $76,715 to purchase a transport cot for sick babies.

Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital Foundation received a

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second-year donation of $10,000 from REDY Group, with a big cheque donated

by Ms Silvia Liu. FutureX Group, 28 Property, Ray White Forest Lake and Grace Education also came on stage to present big cheques.

Among them, Grace Yu and Sharon Chen, the honorary ambassadors of the Mayor's Charitable Foundation, chose to donate to RBWH because Ms. Yu's mother's cancer surgery was successfully cared for by RBWH. In the end, $53,751 was raised for the hospital!

The annual dragon fruit charity sale initiated by Royac Farm has become a significant event for Chinese community in Queensland.

This year, under the sponsorship of William Yan, President of the AustraliaChina Investment and Trade Promotion Association, the volunteers wore uniforms and aprons for next year’s charity sale and went on stage to donate two big cheques of $6,000 each to two hospitals.

Prepared to continue the charity sale with Paul Shih next year these volunteers also came again to help with the Awards Night.

Former mayor Graham Quirk and Paul Shih jointly acted as auctioneers for this year’s live auction. Paul Shih’s Hainanese chicken rice and ROBAM steam oven were bought at a high price by

Jacky Lee of Glamourous Wok in the third year. Paul Shih’s family has to rack their brains again to prepare new dishes to entertain. Paul Shih also sponsored a one-day Porsche driving class experience.

Bobo Qi from Property Bridge paid $5,500 for four people to experience the training of driving eight Porsches. Bobo’s husband, Mr. Darren Brent, is a professional racing driver.

No wonder she defeated many competitors to buy this item.

The Top Agent Award is the highlight every year.

There were more than 80 nominations this year, and only 14 real estate agents became finalists. The award was presented by Emily Huang, Managing Director of Queensland Property Weekly.

Four of the final five winners are first-time winners: Jessie Shi of Resort Brokers, John Heng of Ray White Robertson, Jacky Niu of BrisVegas Property Group and Jun Yang of Jun International Realtors.

Leo Liu of NGU Realty Estate has been ranked among the top five agents for the third consecutive year.

Congratulations to these outstanding real estate agents for receiving awards from Jade Harley the founder of PRET Australia!

EVA Air’s grand prize of round-trip air tickets to any Asian destination is won by Jack Guan! Jacky Niu won the round-trip ticket to Taipei on China Airlines sponsored by Paul Shih.

Finally, Paul Shih announced that the first year of Awards Night raised more than $70,000 with the support of 350 guests at W Hotel, the second year raised more than $140,000 with the contribution of more than 700 guests at Brisbane City Hall, and this year’s event raised a total of $210,507 sets a new record! Thank you so much to all our guests for their overwhelming support.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 45

Monthly Predictions decEMBER - 2023 Aries ( 21st March to 20th April )

Taurus ( 21st April to 21st May )

Gemini ( 22nd May to 21st June )

This month Mars and Sun are going to give you positive support and strength and success both at personal and professional front. Venus movement suggests you avoid a hasty decision. Sun and Mercury will give some unplanned travelling and foreign travel as well. The student will get success in higher study.

The second and third week is giving some workload and stress so you need to be attentive during this period and rest Saturn suggest you have a positive approach and be attentive with your health. Some of the might get sleeping discomfort so you are advised to be regular with meditation and light exercise. Avoid getting into a fight and try to give them some room so they can feel free in your relationship. Your partnership will be strengthened through open communication and shared commitment. A romantic relationship will begin, but things will move slowly forward. Venus's transit may be a sign that you enter a hidden romance. You'll experience love and romance. There will be opportunities for single people to date.

You will really benefit from making practical financial decisions this month, which will assist you to amass good gains. Unexpected costs may arise when siblings travel together or when we celebrate a little occasion together. An unexpectedly favourable bargain will be offered to independent professionals by their client. Rahu and Ketu advise you to make an informed decision rather than having blind faith.

The graces of Jupiter and Venus will grant the fulfilment of wishes, and this month will be fortunate in terms of good fortune. However, the Rahu and Ketu movement advises that you take a positive attitude, pay attention to each minor step, and refrain from sharing your plan with anyone before putting it into action. The middle of this month and the last week of this month require some attention in terms of health due to the challenging transits of the Moon, Rahu, and Saturn. This month will bring marriage and the success of love marriages in terms of relationships. Conflicts between ideas may arise and cause stress in the relationship. Some of you might receive a romantic proposal from a former partner or friend. Those who are in the middle of a divorce can find success during this month's middle. The third and fourth weeks of this month will be successful for those anticipating a work change. Venus in motion says that in order for things to go in your favour, you should take a creative approach and strive for perfection in your work. Sun and Mercury movement means you have a clever strategy, are disciplined and determined, and will be successful in business. Some of you might experience business trips abroad. Success in foreign courses and in higher education will be achieved by the student. Learning new languages will be successful under Rahu's influence.

To prevent your health from being harmed by work and travel this month, you need to prioritise your health and establish a regular schedule. Jupiter and the Sun are capable of providing unexpected trips.

The movements of Saturn and Rahu can present ambiguous difficulties at work. Your plan will need to be eased and examined from both a personal and professional standpoint. The essential words for you are going to be perseverance and patience. It's possible for some of you to start a covert relationship. Try to keep your promises in your marriage; else, a difficult planetary movement may present difficulties for you.

You should refrain from engaging in it because there might be an unexpected quarrel or disagreement with the in-laws. This month, a romantic relationship will require care and patience to make things simple. You should invest in long-term investments or insurance in terms of money and finances. Money recovery will be delayed due to some difficult planetary alignments. It would be wise to postpone making any significant decisions this month because there may be some conflict with your spouse and in-laws over property-related issues. You might have the chance in a distant country. Careers in creative fields like the arts, media, and book publishing can be successful. Those of you who operate independently or in the wholesale industry may experience sudden workload.

Cancer ( 22nd June to 22nd July )

Leo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )

Virgo ( 23rd August to 22nd September )

Venus will contribute with its inspiring, reviving spirit.

Mercury and the Sun advise you to pay attention to your communication and commitment in regard to business and personal relationships, while Jupiter will support you with the blessings to obtain a positive approach and the capacity for good decision-making. Saturn may cause a slight delay in good fortune, but this ensures that some desire fulfilment will occur this month. Some of you might find success in a love marriage in terms of relationships. If you were in the middle of the divorce procedure, you may still be successful. To feel comfortable sharing her sentiments with you, your spouse needs some privacy in a marriage connection. You can enjoy this month's happiness by having your friends and kids around. Some of you receive government help for your businesses.

A brief gathering with a client can help you close a good deal on another project for your company. Traveling for work purposes can produce the desired outcome. Due to lack of senior support, there will be delays and obstacles, but things will eventually work in your favour. Success in finding a new job is guaranteed. Savings-wise, you might achieve the anticipated success. According to Jupiter and the Sun's predictions, you can be successful in getting the loan approved. A child may request financial assistance. Some of you could decide to enrol in classes to gain new skills, which will cost money. achievement in a competitive exam. Some of you might succeed on tests or college projects relating to digital media. There may be indigestion-related health problems and fever from ignorance. The pregnant woman is encouraged by Venus's movement to take good care of herself and to schedule regular checkups.

Both on the personal and professional fronts, this month will bring about a mixed bag of results. This month, Jupiter may bring you the opportunity to spend quality time with your family and enjoy your mother's company. After marriage, the Sun and Mercury can grant foreign settlement. Venus and the Sun may receive an unexpected marriage proposal from a friend. Due to EMIs or loans, there may be some financial difficulties.

Sun may delay obtaining a government favour in order to obtain loanrelated business. Perhaps your mother provides financial support to some of you. There may be an unexpected, unforeseen cost for travel or car repairs. The current favour of the stars suggests that endeavours involving the government may be successful. Venus instructed you to keep the plan a secret from your coworkers until after it had been put into action. You might have some work this month, which could cause tension, so you should focus on priorities to get through it quickly.

Recognition pertaining to the exam you previously administered. You might be able to learn something new. You may also have access to deep biblical knowledge this month. This month, you might be successful with your project or your height research. You are urged to take a brief break from your hectic routine and enjoy some quiet time by yourself.

This could help you maintain good health. Be cautious when you're on the road. Taking care while operating a vehicle is necessary. Chronic illness might result in difficult health problems.

This month, there may be unexpected health difficulties. Consider carrying a medical kit with you.

Avoid using electronic devices excessively as this can harm your eyes and cause you to have trouble sleeping. For calm and the desired outcome, try to surround yourself with pleasant people. The practical approach will support your academic endeavours.

You can develop a desire to master tarot card reading or occult science. You may get the desired outcome with determination and dedication. Possibilities of a shift in the career this month. Interview selection and appreciation for your efforts Career success can come from creative effort. Business and work travel will result in significant financial gains. Your workplace will be enjoyable for you.

Experts will put in their best effort. Avoid developing an emotional attachment to your work. The planetary transit foretells that success might come from being practical rather than becoming overly attached or emotional. There may be difficulties in the relationship.

The importance of commitment and communication cannot be overstated. Avoid engaging in conversation when you're angry.

Those of you who are involved in relationship-related legal matters won't receive the desired outcome. Relationships and the likelihood of conflict will not improve. Avoid starting unnecessary conversations because they can make you more stressed. The earlier investment might have generated some financial gain.

Libra ( 23rd September to 22nd October )

Scorpio ( 23rd October to 22nd November )

Sagittarius ( 23rd November to 21st December )

Your love life may suffer this month as a result of your growing impatience with slower development. But as the month goes on, the Venus transit may present a chance to start a romance. This month, there may be signs of pushback or resistance from family members over significant relationship concerns, according to the influence of the North Node and Mars. A favourable moment to start long-term financial planning may be this month. Due to Jupiter's blessings, you may have more power and resources at your disposal during this time, assisting you in creating a stable financial situation. Your growing sense of self-assurance will assist you in completing tasks more quickly at work. To improve sales and turn over, business owners must have a propensity for venturing into new markets. Be steady and cautious at work as the influence of Nodes will deliver a rollercoaster experience for your job growth. The planetary aspects will not be helpful, and it could be challenging to manage studies. Jupiter's influence on the month will become increasingly favourable for your academic growth. This month's later half appears to be an excellent time for you to focus on your studies and perform well on your tests. During this month, the planets are probably going to help you keep your health. However, the effects of Mars may cause some changes in your health, so there may be times when you feel short on energy. While the influence of the planets will strengthen your immune system, you can feel uneasy about your health and fitness level toward the month's end.

As the month starts, you'll be quite expressive and passionate. The beginning of the month will be wonderful but a little tumultuous for married couples. Individuals who are single will have great options to date. You might develop more maturity and understanding of your life and relationships as a result of the effects of the planets. The month could get off to a rocky start and there could be some unsettling financial developments. However, as the month goes on, planetary placements appear to be favourable for rising earnings. You might need to exercise caution this time around because of the planets' interactions around the month's end, which could cause some disturbances. There could be a lot of prospects for professional development and progress this month. Because to your astute decisions and deft handling of some challenging situations, you may be able to increase your position, according to Mercury's transit. Routine business tasks may experience delays. But there's a chance to receive some solid proposals near the conclusion of this month. As the month goes on, you're likely to make positive academic progress. You will be progressing throughout this time, so you must channel your energy wisely and make the most of the planetary favour. Starting this month, your health is probably in good shape. It can be challenging for you to strike a balance between your professional and personal life in the second part of this month.

Your health may continue to benefit from the influence of the stars near the end of the month. Gradually, you'll feel your health returning to normal.

Venus and Mercury's influence at the start of the month could give you a deeper understanding of your partner. If you are not already in a relationship, there is a potential for a new one. Your love life could have some fantastic moments during this era. However, you can feel a little restless. For financial considerations, things appear to be optimistic and moving forward.

You will have enticing opportunities to make money. Push through challenges and look for answers to realise your vision. Saturn will push you to improve your managerial ability during this month. Mercury advises that you are likely to make observable progress thanks to your astute actions. If you're in business, managing your company will require a cool, collected attitude. Around the conclusion of the month, there will be a lot of chances for professional growth. Due to the negative effects of Nodes at the beginning of this month, you might have to work very hard to achieve the desired academic outcomes.

After the initial difficulties, however, with your perseverance, you might gain useful knowledge. Venus predicts that new people will join your friend group, making it more alive. They may also support you in your academic endeavours. Your health and energy levels may fluctuate at the start of this month due to the effects of Mars and the South Node.

You might need to give your health the respect it deserves. Your health will progressively become better, and you'll have a lot of endurance.

Your productivity will progressively rise along with your energy level.

Capricorn ( 22nd December to 20th January )

Aquarius ( 21st January to 18th February )

Pisces ( 19th February to 20th March )

There might be some inconveniences as a result of Nodes' influence at the beginning of this month.

There may be certain persistent issues that become strongly apparent. Venus could make your love life happier as the month goes on. Keep your spirits up; your positive outlook will probably result in happiness in your romantic relationships. Venus at the beginning of this month could result in a healthy influx of cash.

However, you cannot anticipate a smooth ride because Saturn will not readily bestow positive outcomes. It might eventually present some excellent opportunities to increase your earning potential. The stars suggest that taking care may be necessary from now until the middle of the month. Mars heralds the start of a busy month and results-driven activity in your professional life. This month offers a number of favourable effects that can help you advance in your job.

However, finding a job that suits them could be challenging for new graduates. You might benefit from the planetary favour if you work in business. Around the month's end, you might get an opportunity to make a successful business decision. At the start of this month, planetary aspects may still be unfavourable, making it unlikely that pupils would achieve despite their best efforts. Saturn will challenge you to adhere to your strategy and follow your dreams with tenacity in the later half of this month. The stars at the beginning of this month indicate that while your energy levels may be high, you might occasionally feel uneasy.

Due to the influence of Nodes at the beginning of this month, you can feel cautious and discouraged.

It is an inherent aspect of life. Venus could provide you with a brighter light as the month goes on. Your focus will be more on your romance in the second half of this month. It's best to socialise right now.

For singles, the time will be amazing. Your income and bank account balance will both rise this month. However, Mars predicts some unforeseen costs that could interfere with your financial strategy. Mercury suggests that there may be difficulties in business relations as well, so it is best for you to exercise caution. The effect of South Node predicts that you won't be happy with how things are developing at your place of employment. Entrepreneurs must refrain from any aggressive expansion. Jupiter predicts that you'll probably take on a lot of significant assignments at work.

A businessperson can also have the chance to make a deal with a valuable client. Saturn will urge you to keep up your hard effort in order to succeed in tough exams. Your pals should help you. As the month progresses, it portends that you will now work more effectively and concentrate only on achieving your success-related life objective. There isn't expected to be any serious illness this month. To regain vitality and adopt a healthy lifestyle to ensure optimum energy levels and stamina, Saturn's influence seems to be beneficial. You are predicted to be in excellent health, and this month you may be able to lead a healthy life.

The love and relationship aspects of your life would be quite fortunate this month. It will be an excellent opportunity to ask your spouse to marry you and declare your love. In the beginning of this month, married couples should pay closer attention to their life partner's health. Jupiter may increase your closeness to your spouse, and as the month goes on, your love is likely to grow deeper and more intense. Jupiter's beneficence will guarantee that you maintain a healthy bank account this month. Gradually improving your standing is possible. The groundwork for long-term financial growth will continue to be laid this week. During this month, the favourable effects of Jupiter and Venus could help you land a decent job. It might be an excellent time to put business plans into action. Both launching new items and communicating new ideas will benefit from this time period.

Your studies could go well this month as the planets may present wonderful prospects. Mercury may improve your ability to memorise things properly and to learn new things. Your initiatives can receive support from your professors and friends. This could be a good time to start the application process if you're thinking about attending college overseas. Throughout this month, your health should remain stable. Jupiter is likely to result in a significant improvement or a development of strength and endurance. Your immune system may continue to be robust, preventing any serious health problems.

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, January, 2020 — 51

2023 Cricket World Cup final: Australia beat India by six wickets to claim sixth men's title Travis Head struck a magnificent, match-winning hundred as Australia claimed a record-extending sixth men’s Cricket World Cup title, breaking Indian hearts with a six-wicket win over the tournament hosts in the final in Ahmedabad.

Head's superb 137, off 120 deliveries, helped rescue Australia from 47-3 early on in their chase of 241 to win as he became only the sixth player to score a century in a men's World Cup final, following in the footsteps of Sir Clive Lloyd (1975), Sir Viv Richards (1979), Aravinda de

Jasprit Bumrah (2-43).

But Head and the uber-watchful Marnus Labuschagne (58no off 110 balls) saw off the danger and, with batting becoming progressively easier under lights as the game wore on, they shared in a 192-run stand as Australia cruised to victory, Glenn Maxwell smashing the winning runs with his first ball after Head perished two shy of the winning line.

Score summary India 240 all out in 50 overs: KL Rahul (66 off 107 balls), Virat Kohli

(54 off 63), Rohit Sharma (47 off 31); Mitchell Starc (3-55), Pat Cummins (2-34), Josh Hazlewood (2-60) Australia 241-4 out in 43 overs: Travis Head (137 off 120 balls), Marnus Labuschagne (58no off 110); Jasprit Bumrah (2-43), Mohammed Siraj (1-45), Mohammed Shami (1-47) Player of the Match: Travis Head

Silva (1996), Ricky Ponting (2003), Adam Gilchrist (2007) and Mahela Jayawardene (2011).

Mohammed Shami (147) had picked up David Warner (7) with his first ball, while Mitchell Marsh (15) and Steve Smith (4) both departed in the face of a superb opening spell from

India falter with bat after blistering Rohit start Earlier, KL Rahul (66 off 107) top-scored for India, while Virat Kohli (54 off 63) chipped in with a half century but the innings lost its way after a blistering, boundary-laden 31-ball cameo from skipper Rohit Sharma (47) at the top of the order.

Rohit cracked three sixes to go with four boundaries

Australia claimed a recordextending sixth men’s Cricket World Cup title, breaking Indian hearts with a sixwicket win over the tournament hosts in the final in Ahmedabad. as 80 runs were reaped from the opening 10-over powerplay after India were put into bat by Australia Kohli too contributing four fours in that period.

But Rohit departed to the fourth ball of the 10th over, Head claiming a terrific catch running back from cover, and Shreyas Iyer (4) was gone to the second ball of the 11th. The scoring dried up massively thereafter, with only four boundaries scored over the remaining 40 overs of the innings!

RNA Showgrounds to step up Lions Are 2023 AFLW Premiers! for Gabba redevelopment • RNA Showgrounds’ Main Arena identified as the best alternative venue for the Brisbane Lions and cricket during The Gabba redevelopment.

• The Main Arena will be upgraded to create a temporary 20,000-seat facility.

• The $137 million Main Arena upgrade will deliver a lasting community legacy for the city and the bush at the EKKA. An extensive South East Queensland-wide review has identified the RNA Showgrounds’ Main Arena as the best possible temporary venue during The Gabba rebuild.

The RNA Showgrounds Main Arena will be upgraded to deliver a cost-effective, 20,000-seat alternative home for the Brisbane Lions, cricket and major events.

A permanent seating bowl below a temporary grandstand at Machinery Hill is proposed for a $137 million Main Arena upgrade to also create a lasting community legacy for bringing city and country together at the EKKA. The RNA Showgrounds’ inner-city location beside a Cross River Rail station and proximity to after-game entertainment precincts was assessed as the most appealing option for spectators and the

community.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner’s support for the RNA’s Main Arena as a “no-brainer” for the relocation of The Gabba’s main tenants was a key consideration of the review.

The Lord Mayor has commented an upgrade of the RNA for cricket and the Lions “just makes sense” and ensures “the significant economic benefits of hosting big AFL and cricket games isn’t lost during this time”.

The Brisbane Lions’ contribution to Brisbane’s visitor economy is estimated at $80 million a year.

Input from Cricket Queensland, Cricket Australia, Brisbane Lions and the AFL has been critical to the investigation of temporary playing venues for Gabba hirers.

It will be an historic homecoming for cricket.

In 1928, the Main Arena was where Sir Donald Bradman AC made his international debut at Queensland’s first international test.

Up to $45.7 million has been committed by the Palaszczuk

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Government to the $137 million Main Arena fit out.

Brisbane City Council, the RNA and The Gabba’s primary tenants have been asked to share the remaining $91 million cost for the Main Arena upgrade to proceed.

Work on the RNA Main Arena must begin by next year to be ready for the 2025-26 cricket season and the 2026 start of The Gabba redevelopment.

Main Arena seating will be scaled back to 12,000 seats after the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said: “The Palaszczuk Government has worked closely with cricket and the AFL to find the best alternative venue for teams, spectators and the community while The Gabba is out of action.

“Upgrading the RNA Main Arena means keeping the big games in Brisbane and supporting the visitor economy while delivering an EKKA legacy for uniting city and country.

“I want to thank the Lord Mayor for his public backing of an upgrade to the historic Main Arena at the RNA Showgrounds to retain the economic benefits of sport and jobs here in Brisbane.

“Most Queenslanders acknowledge cricket and the AFL will need somewhere to play during The Gabba redevelopment.

“With many families facing cost-of-living pressures, the upgrade of RNA’s Main Arena is a logical solution, representing the best value-for-money for Queenslanders.”

Never, ever, ever write off Brisbane.

After another round of expansion losses, and with seemingly the entire (nonBrisbane) football public siding with the fairytale story of North Melbourne, the Lions have once again triumphed, defeating the Roos by 17 points to sew up the 2023 AFLW premiership.

They came from fourth on the ladder – having their ups and downs in the home-andaway season – but a finalquarter brace from Dakota Davidson, who had come into the match under a serious injury cloud with a knee injury, carried the Lions to a 7.2 (44) to 4.3 (27) victory.

BUY PREMIERSHIP MERCH HERE Brisbane set an AFLW record for tackles in the process such was its intensity, laying 110, ahead of 106

by Sydney in this year's elimination final, and held North Melbourne scoreless in the final term.

North Melbourne had suffered a significant blow in the opening minutes when last week's best-afield, the lively Jenna Bruton, was felled by a right foot injury, unable to put any weight on the leg.

The first quarter itself was tense and scrappy, Courtney Hodder and Mia King themselves laying eight and seven tackles, respectively.

Chances deep in attack were few and far between.

After a week of being in the headlines (presumably much to the humble Garner's own distaste) after missing out once again in the AFLW best and fairest count, it took a beautiful Garner set shot from 48m to kick the opening

goal, coming 16 minutes into the game.

Sometimes in Grand Finals it's as simple as taking your chances, and that's what Charlie Mullins did from the 50m mark, wheeling and kicking to the top of the square, with the ball skipping through an out-of-alignment North defence for the Lions' first.

GET YOUR HANDS ON PREMIERSHIP MEMORABILIA Koenen was swung onto Garner, starting in the middle, and while she didn't completely shut down the superstar, her influence was somewhat quelled.

"Zombie" from Irish band The Cranberries hit the PA as Orla O'Dwyer kicked a clever bouncing snap early in the third, giving Brisbane the lead for the first time in the game.

It signalled the steely resolve of the Brisbane side, lifting its pressure around the contest and beginning to turn the tide in the clearances.

The heavy Northdominated crowd could sense the turning tide, rising in volume in an attempt to urge their side forward.

It worked.

Kate Shierlaw – who had barely been sighted to this point – took a strong contested mark, beating out

two Brisbane opponents, and converted truly from a tight angle to snatch back the lead.

Ash Riddell streamed out of the centre, three North players laid a tackle (with an excitable Riddell celebrating before the umpire had even called holding the ball), with Alice O'Loughlin kicking truly.

But there was a final twist in the tale yet, with the polarising Davidson – who Lions fans love while she gets under the skin of opposition supporters – shook off her knee injury and stood tall to kick not just the first, but the second of the final term as well.

Integral Brisbane winger Sophie Conway underwent a head injury assessment at three-quarter time and into the fourth term, but returned, while the tough-as-nails Shannon Campbell received a series of heavy knocks throughout the game.

Garner was once again the Roos' best with 24 and two goals, while Mia King stood tall in the contest, recording a game-high 12 clearances and 19 touches.

Belle Dawes ran her heart out, with a game-high 18 contested possessions, 20 touches and 13 tackles, while Ally Anderson bobbed up at important moments to finish with 20 disposals and six clearances.

AIBC Annual Diwali Dinner 2023

Over 75 government and business leaders participated in the annual Diwali Dinner hosted on 16 November at the Stamford Plaza by the Australia India Business Council (AIBC), Australia’s leading business chamber for promoting trade and investment between Australia and India.

Senior officials from Austrade, Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and Redland City Council were present at the occasion.

Mrs Archana Singh, Honorary Consul General for India in Queensland, was also present and engaged extensively with all the delegates, which included many prominent names from the Indian diaspora in Brisbane.

The evening also included talks from Mr Bhoomi Punj, Director - Parsram Foods,

the leading distributor of foods in Australia, who were the partners for the event. Another highlight of the evening was the presentation on Australian macadamia nuts by Clare HamiltonBate, CEO of the Australian Macadamia Society, who also partnered for the event. Following the recent Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) with India, Australian

macadamias have now been launched in India.

Mr Wade Ostreich, Redland City Council’s Senior Adviser for Economic Development and Trade, talked about the Council’s upcoming delegation of Australian businesses to India for the Vibrant Gujarat and the Tamil Nadu Investors’ Summit in January.

“We are delighted that our members, partners,

and well-wishers turned up in full strength, reflecting the diversity and beauty of multicultural Australia.

Their strong presence also reflects their interest in accelerating the bilateral relationship with India,” says Namrata Datt, AIBC’s Director – Strategy and Partnerships and a member of AIBC’s Queensland Committee.

Also present at the occasion were Australian

and Indian businesses such as AustralianSuper, Adani (Bravus), Mahindra, Westpac; university leaders representing the University of Queensland, Central Queensland University, Australian Catholic University, and Griffith University; professional services firms such as Rostron Carlyle Rojas Lawyers, Broadley Rees Hogan Lawyers and Remax; and leading agriculture

industry players such as Parsram Group, Stahmann Webster, Australian Avocados and the Australian Macadamia Society.

In the Diwali spirit of giving, there was also a presentation by Ms Aishwarya Somal of Emerson Law seeking support for her initiative to prevent violence against women.

“We thank our many valued members representing medium and small businesses who came together to celebrate the festival of lights. It was the perfect setting to build relationships and to celebrate shared successes - many of whom have been sparked by ECTA and are expected to get a further boost with the upcoming Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, added Ms Datt of AIBC. To know more about AIBC, visit aibc.org.au

Multicultural recognition is a Queensland-first Logan City Council’s efforts to be a more welcoming and inclusive city have been recognised in a Queenslandfirst.

Council applied last August to join Welcoming Cities, a national initiative that provides a framework for local governments to achieve social cohesion objectives.

It has now become the first Queensland local government area to be assessed and accredited by Welcoming Cities.

City of Logan Mayor Darren Power said Council was proud to be recognised for the work it was doing with the City of Logan’s extensive multicultural community.

Cr Power said Council’s advanced accreditation level meant it was successfully implementing initiatives Call: (07) 3192 5188

and policies to support the city’s 234 different multicultural communities.

“We are proud to be one of the most culturally diverse areas in Australia and look forward to liaising with Welcoming Cities and other key stakeholders to build further on our work in this area,” Cr Power said.

Welcoming Cities CEO Aleem Ali said Logan City Council was the third council in Australia to reach the advanced accreditation level.

“I especially congratulate them for becoming the first council accredited in Queensland as a Welcoming City,” Mr Ali said.

“The assessors were impressed by the examples of the city’s welcoming efforts and Welcoming Australia recognises and commends Council’s role in

facilitating and supporting this work.

“The city's accreditation at an advanced level positions Logan as a national leader and celebrates the collective contribution from diverse community stakeholders in fostering economic, social and cultural inclusion for all residents."

The City of Logan is home to an increasingly diverse population.

The latest (2021) data figures show approximately 27.9 per cent of the city’s 360,000 population, or 96,000 residents, were born overseas.

Council became the 70th Australian Local Government to join Welcoming Cities last year.

The Welcoming Cities network represents 10 million residents across Australia. www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 49

Celebrating The Sweet Spirit Of Christmas: 5 World-Famous Desserts To Delight Your Palate The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to spread the Christmas cheer than indulging in some worldfamous festive desserts?

From traditional treats passed down through generations to modern creations that have captured hearts globally, Christmas desserts are a delightful part of the festivities. Let’s embark on a sweet journey around the world with these five iconic Christmas desserts.

1. Yule Log (France): A Sweet Roll of Tradition Originating from France, the Yule Log, or Bûche de Noël, is a decadent dessert that has become synonymous with Christmas celebrations.

Crafted to resemble a log, this cake is typically made of sponge cake, rolled with creamy frosting, and adorned with chocolate bark or festive decorations. It’s a visual delight that brings a touch of woodland charm to your dessert table.

2. Panettone (Italy): A Taste of Italian Christmas Hailing from Italy, Panettone is a sweet bread that has become a global Christmas sensation. Dotted with candied fruits, raisins, and a hint of citrus zest, this airy and fluffy bread is a staple in Italian households

brandy, Christmas pudding is a beloved British tradition. Often served flambéed with a sprig of holly on top, this dense and moist dessert is a must-have for a truly authentic British Christmas feast.

during the holiday season.

Served in tall, cylindrical shapes, Panettone is not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of the warmth and togetherness that define Christmas.

3. Stollen (Germany): The Festive Fruit Bread In Germany, Stollen takes center stage during Christmas festivities. This dense and fruit-laden bread is generously dusted with powdered sugar, representing the snowy landscapes of winter. Studded with nuts, spices, and candied fruits, Stollen is a rich and satisfying treat that has been savored for centuries, making it an integral part of German Christmas traditions.

4. Christmas Pudding (United Kingdom): A Timeless Classic No list of iconic Christmas desserts is complete without the mention of Christmas pudding. A steamed or boiled dessert laden with dried fruits, suet, and a touch of

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5.

Gingerbread Houses (Global): A Sweet Edible Wonderland While not tied to a specific country, gingerbread houses have become a global Christmas sensation.

Originating from the medieval European tradition of creating edible decorations, these charming houses are constructed from gingerbread cookies, royal icing, and an assortment of candies.

Building and decorating gingerbread houses has become a cherished family activity, bringing joy and creativity to the holiday season.

As Christmas approaches, consider adding these worldfamous desserts to your festive menu. Whether you’re savoring the rich history of the Yule Log or embracing the global joy of gingerbread houses, these desserts are sure to make your celebrations sweeter and more memorable. After all, nothing brings people together like the shared delight of indulging in a delicious Christmas treat.

Call: (07) 3192 5188

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2023 — 51

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