Desh-Videsh February 2022 by Desh-Videsh

Desh-Videsh FEBRUARY 2022 - VOLUME 29, ISSUE 02 Padma Awards 2022: Three Indian Americans 16 to Receive the Padma Bhushan Award Cover

The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian awards conferred by the Government of India to persons of exceptional and extraordinary quality, honoring their distinguished contributions in their fields of expertise.

Celebrating the Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda

Why I am against Conversion

In 1999, the Pope declared in Mumbai that in the 21st century the cross will be planted in Asia. Strangely, there was not much objection in the media that the Pope expressed so openly his eagerness to convert Hindus.

Manav Mandir - Indiafest

The Indiafest team invites you to join us in ringing in one of our county’s favorite annual festival as we prepare for its Silver Jubilee celebration on Saturday, March 5

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Marriage-Based Green Cards

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Indian American Professor receives University System of Georgia Hall of Fame Faculty Award - Associate Professor of Inorganic Chemistry, Arpita Saha, Ph.D. One of the most frequently asked questions from clients is “How can I get a green card?” The two most common pathways to becoming a green card holder are

Make Your Valentine’s Day Special

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February – the month with a day dedicated to love! This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday instead of on the weekend.

Four Books Parents Can Use to Fortify Their Children’s Education

Reading at home is important. Evidence of the effects that reading (and a general culture of reading) has on adolescents in over 30 countries has shown that reading is good for personal development, intellectual growth.

Soar that Score

The year is 2016. I am 19 years old, on my way to Brandsmart to buy a television. The TV was $400 and some change, and I remember I did not have all the money up front.

Community News A Walk in a forest Bollywood Today Desi TV Duniya 6

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Edito r’s View Dear Readers, This month, we come to you with articles which cover a wide variety of subjects. I am sure you must have assumed that my most favorite article among this month’s set of articles is Celebrating the Anniversary of the Birth of Swami Vivekananda. Growing up in India, my father, who was my teacher at home as well as in school (he was a principal of a high school), always talked about Swami Vivekananda and Gandhi ji. My father lived a very simple life, following Gandhian principles and promoting Hindu Dharma. He used to tell me, “Dedicate your life to serving the community, and you will be the happiest person in the world.” He definitely dedicated his life to serving others, such as through promoting Hindu Dharma by his lectures, articles and books. Learning from my father’s teaching, I became an ardent follower of Swami Vivekananda as well as of Gandhi ji. Last month, we celebrated the anniversary of the birth of Swami, and we remembered Gandhiji’s lifelong struggle on the anniversary of his death. Last month, there were two more celebrations: Makar Sankranti (or Utarayan) on January 14, and India’s Republic Day on January 26. Utarayan was one of my favorites when I was growing up in India. Every time we go to India at Uttarayan time, I always spend the entire day on a terrace flying kites. I want to take this opportunity to share one of my pictures of a flying kite on Uttarayan day from the last time we celebrated Uttarayan in India. Talking about India’s Republic Day celebration, we are pleased to present an article on the 2022 Padma Awards. I am sure all of you know about these awards, which are conferred by the President of India on India’s Republic Day. This year, technology kings and a literary queen were among others who were conferred with the Padma Bhusan award. As we have done in the past, this month I am thrilled to present one article that is especially interesting to younger audiences. The first one is “Four Books Parents Can Use to Fortify Their Children’s Education.” In this article, Dr. Conrad Hughes, who wrote his Ph.D. thesis on how education can reduce prejudice, recommends parents consider four books which can help their children achieve greater feats of fortitude, physical strength, courage, and endurance. I was very pleased to see the Upanishads at the top of the list. In this issue, we are also pleased to feature a poem “A Walk in a Forest” by Kriti Binani, a seventh grade student. It is very refreshing that our kids are taking an interest in the literary field, even in the iPhone era. Our young writer Chahna Tailor Gupta, in her article, advises couples that there are several ways they can make their Valentine’s Day special besides giving chocolate. If I may have the liberty to add my thoughts about Valentine’s Day: In my opinion, February should be not only about valentines and sweethearts; instead, it can also be a month for fostering relationships with family and friends; and for loving others. Our immigration expert, Seth Finberg in his article “MarriageBased Green Cards”, clears up some misunderstandings about fiancé visas and lists all other options available for married couples to get their green card. Now, last but not least, this issue includes an article about religious conversion. Maria Wirth, who often contributes her articles to Desh-Videsh, has written an article entitled “Why I Am Against Conversion“. Some may find this article a bit controversial. On behalf of our editorial team, I invite an article from our readers that contradicts Ms. Wirth’s views. Let me end my column by wishing all of you happy and healthy Valentines’ Day. Take care. Be safe; be healthy! Raj Shah Managing Editor

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Padma Awards 2022: Three Indian Americans to Receive the Padma Bhushan Award 16

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he Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian awards conferred by the Government of India to persons of exceptional and extraordinary quality, honoring their distinguished contributions in their fields of expertise. The names of awardees are announced on Republic Day (January 26) each year. The awards are given by the President of India at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in a formal function around March/ April. The award is synonymous with the highest honor and recognition of a person’s knowledge or proficiency. The Padma Awards are given for contributions in artistic fields (including music, painting, sculpture, photography, cinema, theater etc.), social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, civil service, sports, and other fields like wildlife protection/ conservation, the propagation of Indian culture, and the protection of human rights. FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

The Padma Awards have three categories: • Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service; • Padma Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order; and • Padma Shri for distinguished service

3 Indian Americans to Receive Padma Awards in 2022 As per convention, the names of Padma Awardees have been declared this year, and three Indian American citizens have been conferred for their distinguished contributions in their respective fields. Madhur Jaffrey will be honored for her contributions to the field of culinary arts, and Satya Narayana Nadella and Sundararajan Pichai will be honored for their contributions to the field of trade and industry. They are all sons and daughters of India who have excelled in the international arena and have made their homeland filled with pride and glory. The Padma Awards with which they (being deeply rooted in this storied land of the Himalayas) will be lauded will be given in recognition of their excellence and success in the global arena.

Profiles of the Indian American awardees: Madhur Jaffrey It is indeed heartening news that the 88-year-old Madhur Jaffrey will be honored with the Padma Bhushan award as a recognition of her excellent culinary skills in Indian cooking. She is named the First Lady of Global Indian Cuisine and is active and alert to the fullest. Her latest cookbook is Instantly Indian Cookbook (published in 2019). She has authored more than a dozen cookbooks on Indian cuisine and has participated in numerous talk shows and cookery shows on television outside India. She studied at Delhi University, and later started acting in dramas. She joined the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London in 1955. It was the beginning of her missing the Indian food which inspired her to try cooking – and the rest is history. Her first cookbook, An Invitation to Indian Cooking, was published in 1973. She is an eminent actor and a great chef. She received the honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her contributions in building up cultural relations between the United Kingdom, India, and the United States.

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He led various important and trendsetting Microsoft projects that include cloud computing services and the Online Services Division.

Satya Narayana Nadella Better known as Satya Nadella, this 55-year-old Hyderabad-born techie studied at his home city of Hyderabad and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from Manipal Institute of Technology. He pursued his MS in computer science at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and later completed an MBA from the University Of Chicago Booth School Of Business. Nadella joined Microsoft in 1992. He led various important and trendsetting Microsoft projects that include cloud computing services and the Online Services Division. His efficiency and excellent leadership qualities earned him the position of Microsoft’s CEO in 2014. He is Microsoft’s third CEO, following Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer. The government of India’s emphasis on the technological growth of the country and the development of Digital India has been fully expressed through its decision to confer the Padma Bhushan award on Satya Nadella.

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Sundararajan Pichai

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Google’s CEO, commonly known as Sundar Pichai, was born in Chennai. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Metallurgical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur and went to the USA for higher studies. He received a MS from Stanford University and an MBA from Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania where he was named Siebel Scholar and Palmer Scholar for his extraordinary accomplishments. Pichai joined Google in 2004. There, he led the product management and innovation efforts for software like Google Chrome and Chrome OS and made great contributions in the development of Google Drive. He was promoted as the CEO of Google in 2015 and CEO of Alphabet, Inc. in 2019. Featuring among the Times 100 Most Influential People in 2016 and 2020 lists, Sundar Pichai is an extremely humble and courteous person, reflecting Indian culture and heritage very well. He expressed gratitude to the Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Padma awards panel for having considered him for the Padma Bhushan Award. In his statement, he said that he felt extremely privileged and honored to receive the award along with all the eminent achievers in different fields. They are all sons and daughters of India. This country has given them prime grooming and has embedded within them the rich culture and heritage of the land. This is what became the impetus behind their drive to excel and to improve themselves. This is what fueled their passion for contributing greatly to global advancement and global welfare. India (and the Indian government) is extremely proud to acknowledge these people’s achievements and rich contributions around the globe. This is why each of them will be honored with the Padma Award.

Editor’s Note

Swami Vivekananda spent six weeks at a house in South Pasadena, California in January 1900. The house (309 Monterey Road) is now known as the Vivekananda House

In September 1893, when Swami Vivekananda arrived in Chicago, USA, to deliver his now-iconic address at the Parliament of Religions, the Western world didn’t think much of the saffron-robed Indian representative. Within a few days, however, that view had altered dramatically, as the power of Swamiji’s words and persona had already traveled far and wide. After winning over his audience at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago, he began giving talks all over the eastern part of the USA, traveling by steam locomotive. He startled and amazed his American listeners with the message that all religions are valid paths to God; that human beings, in their essence, are none other than the divine being himself; and that it was the goal of life for each individual to realize this truth as a fact of experience. In his own powerful words: “Come up,

O Lions! Shake off the delusion that you are sheep. You are spirits free-blessed and eternal.” He had realized these truths at the feet of his guru, Sri Ramakrishna, who lived in a Kali temple north of Kolkata. Swamiji became known as the “Cyclonic Monk.” Wherever he went he stirred things up and great excitement would attend his talks. Swamiji was invited to teach in August 1894 at an interreligious camp meeting (living in tents) in Greenacre, Maine, USA. This had been inspired by his Chicago addresses. He was in his element there, lecturing under a towering pine tree to a circle of eager students sitting with him on the ground. After leaving, he decided he had had enough of travel and audiences. He wanted to settle down and have students so he could leave something permanent in America. He debated between Boston and New

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Born into the aristocratic Bengali Kayastha family in Calcutta, Swami Vivekananda ji was born as Narendranath Datta on January 12, 1863. He was a key figure in the introduction of the Hindu philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. He is credited with raising interfaith awareness of Hinduism’s status as a major world religion (doing so during the late 19th century). Let us remember him and celebrate his birthday by pledging to be proud Hindus and ambassadors of Hinduism in this Western world. Raj Shah Managing Editor, Desh-Videsh Media Group

York. York.He Hesaid saidto tohimself, himself,“Boston “Bostonis isthe the Athens of America, but New York Athens of America, but New York is is Rome.” Rome.” He He chose chose Rome. Rome. That That autumn, autumn, he he gave gave aa series series of of packed packed lectures lectures at at the the Brooklyn Brooklyn Ethical Ethical Society; Society; and and he he founded founded the the Vedanta Vedanta Society Society of of New New York. York. In In January January 1895, 1895, he he left left the the fancy fancy residence residence of of Dr. Dr. Guernsey Guernsey and and moved moved into into his his own own quarters quarters at at 54 54 W W 33rd 33rd St. St. in in Manhattan. Manhattan. This This was was aa somewhat somewhat disreputable disreputable neighborhood. neighborhood. Some Some friends friends of of Swamiji Swamiji warned warned him him that that the “right sort of people” would the “right sort of people” would not not come come there. there. However, However, they they did. did. It It was said that his rooms used to was said that his rooms used to be be full full to to overflowing. overflowing. When When the the chairs were all taken, people would chairs were all taken, people would sit sit on on tables tables and and on on the the floor floor and and even outside the door. Josephine even outside the door. Josephine MacLeod, MacLeod, who who became became aa lifelong lifelong

friend friend of of Swamiji, Swamiji, said said that that what what she she heard from him--from his first word heard from him--from his first word to to the the last--was last--was truth. truth. Frank Frank Leggett, Leggett, aa wealthy businessperson and wealthy businessperson and pious pious Episcopalian, Episcopalian, also also attended. attended. He He heard heard Swamiji Swamiji say, say, “I “I don’t don’t want want to to make make you you into into Hindus. Hindus. II want want to to make make you you into into better better Christians.” Christians.” He He was was touched touched by by this this message message and and began began taking taking aa fatherly interest in Swamiji. fatherly interest in Swamiji. Swamiji Swamiji always always kept kept himself himself occupied, giving talks twice a occupied, giving talks twice a day day on on most most days. days. Seeing Seeing how how exhausted exhausted he he was, Leggett invited him to take rest was, Leggett invited him to take rest at at his his weekend weekend residence, residence, Ridgely Ridgely Manor, about 100 miles north Manor, about 100 miles north of of the the city city on on the the west west side side of of the the Hudson Hudson river. river. He He loved loved to to meditate meditate there there under under aa giant giant oak, oak, and and that that spot spot is is especially marked at the Vivekananda especially marked at the Vivekananda Retreat, Retreat, Ridgely, Ridgely, now now established established on on

Swami Vivekananda Vivekananda Swami photographed in in photographed London, United United London, Kingdom (1895). (1895). After Kingdom almost two years After almost two years in the the USA, USA, Swami Swami in Vivekananda travelled travelled Vivekananda to the the United United Kingdom Kingdom to in 1895 1895 and and gave gave aa in series of of lectures lectures there there series

“Blessed are my sins … It is my sins, as much as my virtues, that have made me what I am today.”

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the grounds of Ridgely Manor. That summer, Swamiji gave classes to a group of students at the summer home of one of them at the Thousand Islands Park. Those talks can now be read in a book titled Inspired Talks. In the autumn of 1895, Swamiji traveled to England, stirring things up there. When he returned in December, in addition to giving classes, he started publishing four yoga books. Raja Yoga, an introduction to and commentary on Patanjali’s Yoga sutras. He made a strong impression on his audiences across the world. The great psychologist and philosopher, William James put it into practice, reaping great psychological and spiritual benefits.

Swamiji was invited to Harvard, where he spoke before the Graduate Philosophical Club. He made such a deep impression on the dean and other professors that he was offered a full professorship (which he declined). The dean, in an introduction to the published lecture, wrote that Vivekananda enabled him to understand that the Vedanta is the actual beginning of all philosophy. One of his New York students asked Swamiji why he never spoke about sin. He replied, “Blessed are my sins … It is my sins, as much as my virtues, that have made me what I am today.” Another spoke of the overwhelming force of his presence, saying that some among his audience at various lectures were literally exhausted.

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However, However,Swamiji Swamijiwanted wantedeveryone everyone totomaintain maintainindependence. independence. On OnSwamiji’s Swamiji’ssecond secondvisit visittotothe the West, West,during duringone onetalk talkininNew NewYork, York, he hebecame becameaware awareofofhis hispower powerover over his his listeners listeners and and abruptly abruptly left left the the platform platform for for fear fear ofof turning turning them them allallinto intodisciples. disciples.Another Anotherteaching teaching surprised surprised Americans: Americans: “Humans “Humans are are God. God. To To serve serve them them isis worship.” worship.” Josephine Josephine MacLeod MacLeod would would say say his his power power lay lay inin the the courage courage he he gave gave others otherstotoput putthese theselofty loftyteachings teachings into intopractice. practice.

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Why I am against Conversion By Maria Wirth

n 1999, the Pope declared in Mumbai that in the 21st century the cross will be planted in Asia. Strangely, there was not much objection in the media that the Pope expressed so openly his eagerness to convert Hindus. Not only the Pope but also the different evangelical sects want to convert Hindus in big numbers. And unfortunately, they are doing it successfully because they have lots of money. In the last 20 years, after the Pope made his statement, Christian missionaries have become increasingly visible, blatant and controversial.

As I grew up as a Christian, I would like to share my observations from a personal angle. I noticed that most Hindus are very cautious when it comes to religion. They take care ‘not to offend the sensibilities’ of the followers of Christianity and Islam. Yet on the other hand, Christians and Muslims don’t hesitate to offend the sensibilities of Hindus, and even badly demean them. Many Indians argue that, because those religions are in the minority, their followers need special consideration so that they don’t feel threatened by the Hindu majority. It is true that those religions are in the minority in India, but worldwide, Christianity and Islam have the biggest number of followers. Both religions

also have great financial and political clout. This clout is reflected even in the Indian media. Just observe how favorably mainstream media reports on minorities and how unfavorably on the majority. I can’t help feeling that there is a clever Public Relation strategy. In contrast, Hindus don’t seem to have a PR strategy. ‘Truth will triumph’, is their motto, even if it takes ages…

Why no debates on religious matters? Sometimes I hear the following argument from Hindus: “Only because missionaries despise Hinduism, Hinduism does not become bad.” This is of course true, but why not refute the obnoxious, false accusations that Hinduism is a primitive polytheistic religion and Hindus are sinful idolworshippers? Such accusations do not only completely misinterpret Hindu Dharma, but they are meant to help the Christian agenda to wean away Hindus from their faith. Hindus should at least explain the basics of Sanatana or Hindu Dharma, and show how profound they are, if not pointing out the shortcomings of the dogmatic founder religions. Pointing out the shortcomings of other religions seems to be taboo for Hindus. I wonder why. Debates on religious matters were common in ancient India and were of the highest order. Women also took part in those debates, which are recorded in the Upanishads. Yet today there is hardly any discussion on religion or philosophy. One reason may be that a part of the intellectual class in India has been influenced by the British to such an extent that they adopted their ignorant view that Hinduism is primitive without ever reading any

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and dislikes, but it is the invisible, conscious basis of all forms and names in this creation. This conscious basis is also in our own person and can be experienced, and this makes sense. “Question, reflect and experience” is recommended. In contrast, Christianity demands blind belief and does NOT encourage questions, nor experience. It claims doubts are from the devil. A Church that branded its own mystics, who realized their oneness with God, as heretics, cannot teach anything to India. It can only divide. of the ancient texts. It is a small, but influential group that is ever ready to loudly defend the minority religions.

Heaven and Hell Most Hindus consider all religions as equal, as all believe in the same God, as there is of course only one creator. Moreover, all religions have good points. They all stress the need for a moral life. They all give suggestions on how to connect with God in prayer. Yes, it’s true, but some non-hindus have a very negative point which nullifies the good points. This negative point is that they divide humanity into those who are right and go to heaven and those who are wrong and go to hell without any proof. The Church claims that Jesus Christ himself commanded his disciples to go out and baptize all nations (Matthew 28.19). Therefore, they believe that they have the ‘divine duty’ to convert the whole world. Jesus Christ might be shocked to see what is happening in his name.

How I got doubts As a child, I believed whatever I was told, but in high school, I started questioning. I could not believe in a

God any longer who sits in heaven, loves only Christians and sends all others to hell. A brother of my mother was a priest and, in his library, I read about the history of the Church. It was an eye-opener – how decadent the popes were, how brutal and bloody the conversion of South America was, how dissenters were imprisoned, tortured and killed, how the bishops schemed for power and wealth… Together with religion, I was about to throw out God as well, as He seemed inextricably linked with it. Then I read an article on modern physics. It said that the whole creation is one energy. It was for me a Eureka moment. “This means there is a God!” I felt: If God is really the Highest, It cannot love one group and hate others. It has to be the ground of everybody and everything.

Getting to know about the profound Vedic wisdom When I came to India, I was amazed how profound her ancient wisdom was - a wisdom that makes no claims, which need to be blindly believed, and a wisdom which does not divide people into “us versus them”. ‘Brahman’ or ‘Tat’ of the Vedas is not a personal God that has likes

Hindu Dharma is universal Missionaries try by hook or crook to get converts and target especially the poorer sections of society and even children. It seems as if they have a quota to achieve. They claim that Christianity is the right faith and Hinduism is very wrong and they will land in hell if they don’t convert. The Upanishads claim “Tat Tvam Asi” (You are THAT/ Brahman). “You” means everyone, not only Hindus. This philosophy is truly universal. Christian theologians would need to study Indian wisdom with an open mind. They would realize that dogmas are a hindrance in the process to uncover Truth. Such openness would make religion spiritual. Mystics would be appreciated. No “us versus them”, no borders, no God, who belongs only to one group and who condemns the rest, just a genuine search for the One Essence beyond name and form…

Mind set of Church representatives Church representatives are adamant that conversion is not only their right, but also their duty. Many Hindus still don’t get the mindset of missionaries.

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

For example, after my mother had passed away in Germany, I went to the priest to arrange the funeral. When he came to know that I live in India, he said, “Oh, a friend of mine just went to India.” “I hope not for conversion”, I replied. His reaction, “Of course conversion. It is our duty.”

for

Strangely, Hindus feel religion must not be talked about and only a few question the ‘one and only way’ bogus. But is anything more important than to find the truth about God, us, and the world? So shouldn’t we talk about religion?

In the west, many leave the Church, in India many join Indian converts generally join Christianity for reasons that have nothing to do with God or faith. Those converts may initially get material benefits but the price is very high. They have to despise the faith that they held dear and for which their ancestors have fought and made many sacrifices. They have to disown their devas as devils. They are coerced to put meat from the dead body of a cow into their stomach. They have to confess a belief in dogmas, which don’t make sense, like the claim that one has only one life and on the basis of this one life one will go either to heaven or hell for all eternity.

Yet slowly, they or at least their children, will become convinced that they alone have the right faith and that Hindus are inferior and damned by God. The brainwashing into the doctrine is much stronger in India than in Christian countries. While most people in the West, who are not employed by the Church, don’t believe any longer that Hindus go to hell, even an IIT graduate convert told me that he believes it and he had already convinced his parents to convert to save them from hell… I once heard Bede Griffith, who had a Christian ashram near Trichy, giving a talk to nuns from Kerala and I was shocked how he threatened them with hell. After his talk I asked him how he could frighten them so much. He said, “I have to strengthen their faith so that they know where the border to Hinduism is.”

Hinduism is truly universal Hinduism has no border. It has a place for everyone. If someone worships Jesus, no Hindu will object. But Hindus need to object to the baseless claim by non-hindus that worshiping Krishna or Shiva is wrong and will land one in hell, because this is not true and also dangerous for Hindus, because it breeds hatred which can lead to hate crimes. Christian converts need to reflect on what they are taught. If they start reflecting, they surely will wonder if this can possibly be the truth.

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When I recently took a taxi, there was a picture of Jesus. I asked the driver if he converted. “Yes”, he said. I told him, “You became Christian from Hindu and I became Hindu from Christian.” He looked surprised. “Why?” he asked. I explained a bit and said that Hindu Dharma makes sense. Before leaving I requested him not to look down on Hinduism and Hindus, even if missionaries tell him how bad they are. Hindus are not bad. They are good, better than many others, and Hindu Dharma is the best option for humanity.” He smiled and said that he doesn’t believe everything the padres say.

About the Author Maria Wirth is a German who came to India on a stop over on her way to Australia after finishing her psychology studies at Hamburg University. She visited the Ardh Kumbh Mela in Haridwar in April 1980 where she met Sri Anandamayi Ma and Devaraha Baba, two renowned saints. With their blessing she continued to live in India and never went to Australia. She dived into India’s spiritual tradition, sharing her insights with German readers through articles and books. For long, she was convinced that every Indian knows and treasures his great heritage. However, when in recent years, she noticed that there seemed to be a concerted effort to prevent even Indians and the world from knowing how valuable this ancient Indian heritage is, she started to point out the unique value of Indian tradition also in English language and shared them on her blog. She also wrote the book Thank you India – a German woman’s journey to the wisdom of yoga.

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Manav Mandir Presents

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Indiafest CELEBRATING 25 YEARS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thein one of our team invites you to join us in ringing in one The Indiafest team invites you to join us in ringing county’s favorite annual festival of our county’s favorite annual festival as as we prepare for its Silver Jubilee celebration on Saturday, March 5 and Sunday, Marchwe 6, prepare for its Silver Jubilee celebration on Saturday, March 5 and 2022 in Wickham Park - 2500 Parkway Dr. Melbourne 32935. Sunday, March 6, 2022 in Wickham Park - 2500 Parkway Indiafest is a fun family festival bringing focus and share the Indian culture, history and Dr. Melbourne 32935. tradition with Brevard County. Started in 1996, with a curious and humble effort of an ethnic community, today it’s a symbol of cultural enrichment in Brevard County and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. It is a well-run festival with a fresh and new lookfamily every festival year. The uniqueness is a fun bringing focus and share is due to a different theme presented each yearthe showing some of the unique aspects of India. Indian culture, history and tradition with Brevard To celebrate 25 years of existence, the team is planning many new activities to this fun and County. Started in 1996, with curious and of humble effort unique festival. Among them is an experience which will transport you to the adesert village an ethnic community, today it’s a symbol of cultural India. This event will be held during our extendedofhours on Saturday 6pm - 9pm. enrichment in Brevard County and is celebrated with An admirable factor of this festival is its commitment to giving back to the community. Indiafest great enthusiasm. It is a well-run festival with a fresh and is a non-profit, cultural organization, known for its charitable efforts to several local charities, new look every year. The uniqueness is due to a different including the parent organization, Manav Mandir, and aids in disaster recovery, nationally and theme each year showing of the unique internationally. With support from the community, thepresented organization have raised and some donated $1.14 million to date and thanks the community for believing in theirTo mission of spreading aspects of India. celebrate 25 yearscultural of existence, the harmony while helping worthy causes along the way. Please visit the website at team is planning many new activities to this fun and indiafestbrevard.org for a detailed list of charitable efforts. This year the focus is to start a unique festival. is an experience $100,000 endowment scholarship with Eastern Florida StateAmong Collegethem to afford tuition for which will deserving students who need a helping hand. transport you to the desert village of India. This event will be held during our extended hours on Saturday 6pm Indiafest has something of interest for everyone, from hands-on activities for the youths, to 9pm. shopping for the adults, mouth-watering Indian cuisine, yoga demonstrations, and all-day entertainment for everyone to enjoy. The Discover India booth will feature the theme by providing information and displays of various An cultural nuances, significant admirable factor of this places festivalofis interest, its commitment to beauty and history of India’s architecture, culture and, landscape. The stage will come alive with giving back to the community. is a non-profit, performances by our local artistes dancing to traditional folk, classical, and modern Indian music organization, for with its charitable while the fashion show will be the highlight of thecultural day. The grounds will known be buzzing vendors efforts to selling jewelry, rich colorful ethnic garments, artsseveral and crafts, and videos. Onethe canparent indulgeorganization, localmusic charities, including in exotic Henna designs while, the aroma of tantalizing flavors of food being prepared entice the nationally Manav Mandir, and aids in disaster recovery, taste buds. and internationally. With support from the community, Today, as technology makes the world more the accessible, appreciation of different organization have raised and cultures donatedis$1.14 million more apparent than ever. At Indiafest you will take back with you, a part of India’s rich culture, to date and thanks the community for believing in their be it arts and crafts, food, jewelry, music, dance, or clothes. You will be transcended, as you get mission of spreading cultural harmony while helping a close up view of the traditional and vibrant aspects of the culture. So, come enjoy and th th th the 6way. Please visit the website at celebrate the 25 Indiafest Saturday - Marchworthy 5 and causes Sundayalong – March , 2022 at Wickham indiafestbrevard.org for aunder detailed listfree. of charitable efforts. Park, Melbourne. Tickets are $7 adults, $3 children under 12, and children 5 are This year the focus is to start a $100,000 endowment scholarship with Eastern Florida State College to afford tuition for deserving students who need a helping hand.

It is a well-run festival with a fresh and new look every year. mittee opde BelaThe Gandhi uniqueness is due to a different el Smita G Patel theme presented each year ach Committee showing some of the unique ddikonda aspects of India.

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FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

has something of interest for

everyone,

from

hands-on

activities for the youths, to shopping for the adults, mouth-watering Indian cuisine, yoga demonstrations, and all-day entertainment for everyone to enjoy. The Discover India booth will feature the theme by providing information and displays of various cultural nuances, significant places of interest, beauty and history of India’s architecture, culture and, landscape. The stage will come alive with performances by our local artistes

indulge in exotic Henna designs while, the aroma of tantalizing flavors of food being prepared entice the taste buds. Today, as technology makes the world more accessible, appreciation of different cultures is more apparent you will take than ever. At back with you, a part of India’s rich culture, be it arts and crafts, food,

jewelry, music, dance, or clothes. You will be transcended, as you get a close up view of the traditional and vibrant aspects of the culture. So, come enjoy and celebrate the 25th

Saturday - March 5th

and Sunday – March 6th, 2022 at Wickham Park, Melbourne. Tickets are $7 adults, $3 children under 12, and children under 5 are free.

For more information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit www.deshvidesh.com/Feb2022/ or download our Mobile App.

dancing to traditional folk, classical, and modern Indian music while the fashion show will be the highlight of the day. The grounds will be buzzing with vendors selling jewelry, rich colorful ethnic garments, arts and crafts, music and videos. One can

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Please scan the QR code with a barcode-scanning app on your Apple or Android device. To download the mobile app to Apple devices, visit: https://apple.co/39oMqRu.

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Indian American Professor receives University System of Georgia Hall of Fame Faculty Award Associate Professor of Inorganic Chemistry, Arpita Saha, Ph.D., was chosen unanimously as the winner of the 2021 Felton Jenkins Jr. Hall of Fame Faculty Award for the University System of Georgia. “As a professor, mentor, and chemist, I feel overwhelmingly proud to achieve this honor,” Saha said. “I would like to sincerely thank Georgia Southern University for providing me the resources and support. To me, the true meaning of teaching is the ability to touch lives, nurturing possibilities, guiding creative minds, and mak[ing] every student feel that they belong in my classroom and research lab. I must acknowledge my wonderful and talented colleagues from whom I have learned a great deal of leadership in mentoring.” Saha will be recognized at the annual Regents’ Scholarship Gala next September by the Chancellor, the regents, the presidents and her peers. “When the pandemic brought much to a standstill, Dr. Saha demonstrated resolve in supporting her students through innovations with instructional technology,” Executive Vice Chancellor of the University System of Georgia, Tristan Denley, said in a letter to

Saha. “At the college level, she mentored new programs through the curricular process, developing new environmental chemistry courses with a new curriculum.” Along with the award, Saha will receive a $5,000 prize at the gala. “This recognition not only reassures my passion for mentoring but also reminds me that teaching is a privilege and [a] responsibility,” Saha said. “My teaching strategy involves engaging students in enjoyable, informative, hands-on and interactive activities for making the subject more tangible and [for] connecting chemistry to everyday life. I find teaching is liberating and exhilarating – as it enables me to create pathways of success for my students through scientific literacy, research, and scholarly activities.”

Saha said. “My teaching strategy involves engaging students in enjoyable, informative, hands-on and interactive activities for making the subject more tangible and [for] connecting chemistry to everyday life.

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Gita Gopinath, an Indian-American, to become IMF’s First Deputy Managing Director The IMF on Friday said its First Deputy Managing Director (FDMD), Geoffrey Okamoto, will leave early next year and Gita Gopinath, currently the Chief Economist, is proposed to replace him. Ten people have occupied the IMF’s FDMD chair since the position was created in 1949. Gita will be the IMF’s eleventh FDMD and the second woman to hold that position.

idea of professional sports. Also, she briefly showed up for modeling.

(till class seven) started scoring 90 per cent.”

In an interview with an Indian weekly some years back, her mother, V.C. Vijayalakshmi, had talked of her daughter’s ascent since Class 7: “The girl who used to score 45 per cent

She went on to do well academically, earning an intermediate degree in science at Maharaja PU in Mysore and ‘topping’ her peers at Delhi University while earning her BA.

Representation In:

In a statement from Washington, D.C., IMF’s Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, said: “I am delighted that Gita has decided to stay and accept the new responsibility.” Gopinath, now a US citizen, was to return to her position as the John Zwaanstra Professor of International Studies and Economics, Harvard University, in January 2022. It is noteworthy that Gopinath wasn’t always the ‘topper’ type she became as an economics undergraduate in Delhi’s Lady Shriram College. Till class 7, she was scoring at around 45 per cent; and then toyed with the

In a statement from Washington, D.C., IMF’s Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, said: “I am delighted that Gita has decided to stay and accept the new responsibility.”

Law Office of Manju Kalidindi, P.A. 950 S. Pine Island Rd., Suite A150, Plantation, FL 33324 • Tel.: (954) 723-9105 Email: manju@kalidindilaw.com • www.kalidindilaw.com https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Manju-Kalidindi/206928892657209

Member: American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA); South Florida AILA; The Florida Bar; South Asian Bar Association (SABA) The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement. Before you decide, ask us to send you written information about our qualifications & experience.

“She created quite a flutter by bagging the gold medal, as LSR had beaten St. Stephen’s for the first time – and by just two marks[!]”

to international capital flows (the integrated policy framework), and work on a Pandemic Plan to end the COVID-19 crisis by setting targets for vaccinating the world at a feasible cost.

Like many kids her age in India, Gopinath also entertained the idea of taking the civil service exam and of earning an MBA, too. Today, the IMF Managing Director spoke praised Gita Gopinath, saying, “Given that the pandemic has led to an increase in the scale and scope of the macroeconomic challenges facing our member countries, I believe that Gita – universally recognised as one of the world’s leading macroeconomists – has precisely the expertise that we need for the FDMD role at this point. Indeed, her particular skill set – combined with her years of experience at the Fund as Chief Economist – make[s] her uniquely well qualified. She is the right person at the right time.” Georgieva, a Bulgarian economist, noted that Gopinath’s contribution has already been exceptional, especially her “intellectual leadership in helping the global economy and the Fund … navigate the twists and turns of the worst economic crisis of our lives”. She said Gopinath – also the first female Chief Economist in IMF history – has garnered respect and admiration across the IMF member countries and across the institution itself, with her proven track record in leading analytically rigorous work on a broad range of issues. Georgieva said that the IMF’s Research Department had gone “from strength to strength”, particularly highlighting its contributions in multilateral surveillance via The World Economic Outlook, a new analytical approach to help countries respond

Born in Kolkata, Gopinath will take the lead on surveillance and related policies, oversee research and flagship publications, and help foster standards for Fund publications. Gopinath earned her Ph.D. in economics from Princeton University in 2001. She earned her B.A. from LSR, and earned her M.A. degrees from the Delhi School of Economics and the University of Washington. She is the younger of the two daughters of T.V. Gopinath and Vijayalakshmi. They are both from Kannur, Kerala and settled in Mysuru.

She said Gopinath - also the first female Chief Economist in IMF history - has garnered respect and admiration across our member countries and the institution, with a proven track record in leading analytically rigorous work on a broad range of issues.

For more information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit www.deshvidesh.com/Feb2022/ or download our Mobile App.

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FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Marriage-Based Green Cards

Attorney Seth Finberg

One of the most frequently asked questions from clients is “How can I get a green card?” The two most common pathways to becoming a green card holder are

It will be easier to understand your green card options if you are familiar with the following immigration law terms.

1) getting sponsored by a spouse/ immediate family member, OR

1) U.S. Citizens, OR 2) lawful permanent residents of the United States.

and

live

Non-immigrant visa: A visa issued to enter the U.S. on a temporary basis (such as tourism, business, school, or work) Priority date: The date that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) receives your immigrant visa petition and puts you in the cue for a green card; after your application is approved, your priority date must be current before an immigrant visa is available Lawful Permanent Resident: An immigration status that allows you to live/work in the U.S. (a green card)

2) getting an employer sponsorship. The employment-based green card process is more challenging and much more difficult to obtain, as it requires a very particular set of skills. Additionally, applying for an employment-based green card is considerably more expensive, and the wait time is much longer. Fortunately, marriage-based green card options are usually available to foreign nationals who are married to

them to enter, work, permanently in the U.S.

Visa

bulletin:

Department’s

The

monthly

U.S.

State

publication

that provides an updated waiting list of immigrant visas (green cards) that are subject to quotas based on categories and countries of origin Immigrant visa: A visa that is issued to a foreign national allowing

Adjustment of Status: Adjusting your immigration status from a nonimmigrant to a lawful permanent resident Consular Processing: The process in which you apply for your immigrant visa at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate where you are currently living K-1 visa: A specific non-immigrant visa that allows a fiancé of a U.S. Citizen to enter the United States,

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

requiring them to marry within 90 days Valid Immigration status: If your U.S. visa is valid and your authorized period of stay has not expired If you are a foreign national who is married to a U.S. Citizen/ lawful permanent resident, your spouse may be able to petition for you if: 1) you and your U.S. spouse are in a valid, good faith, bona fide marriage, 2) your legal marriage is recognized by the U.S. government, and

combo card. If you are approved, after about 18-24 months (estimating USCIS/ COVID-19 delays), you and your spouse will be scheduled for an interview at your local USCIS office. If you pass your interview, you will then receive your green card once it is available from the visa bulletin. If you are living outside the United States, you can apply for your green card through “consular processing” at the U.S. Consulate in the country in which you are living. Once

It is even more important to start the green card process early if you are married to a U.S. permanent resident. While spouses of U.S. Citizens are exempt from the visa bulletin (meaning there is no quota or cap), the spouses of U.S. permanent residents are not. Once you have completed the green card process (whether family based or employment based), you still must wait for an immigrant visa to become available in your visa category and country of birth.

If you are living outside of the U.S. and are engaged to a U.S. Citizen, you may be eligible for a K-1 fiancé visa. The K-1 is a very specific, If you are living in the single-use, non-immigrant United States with your visa where you have 90 days U.S. spouse, you can to marry your U.S. Citizen apply for your green card fiancé after you enter the through a process known United States. Only fiancés as “adjustment of status” to of U.S. Citizens are eligible become a lawful permanent for a K-1 visa. Fiancés of resident. There are a few lawful permanent residents conditions you must satisfy are not. After you apply for before you can apply to a K-1 visa, if approved, it adjust your status and start currently takes about 8-10 the green card process: months before you can 1) you legally entered the come to the U.S. and get United States with a visa married. Once you are in One of the most frequently asked questions from clients the U.S. and married, you or through a visa waiver is “How can I get a green card?” The two most then can apply to “adjust program AND common pathways to becoming a green card holder are 1) your status” with the USCIS. 2) you are still in a valid getting sponsored by a spouse/ immediate family Current estimates show that member OR 2) getting an employer sponsorship. immigration status. it takes about 7-9 months However, if you are for you to receive your you pass your interview and have married to a U.S. Citizen and are combo card (which allows for work no longer in status, there are some completed consular processing, you and travel). exceptions where your spouse can should receive your immigrant visa Whether you apply for the K-1 or still petition for your green card. in about 18-24 months (estimating get married in your home country 3) your U.S. spouse can financially support your green card.

Once you apply to adjust your status, it generally takes 7-9 months before you receive your “combo card”. Your combo card gives you work authorization and international travel authorization. It is advisable not to work in the U.S. or to leave the country until you receive your

USCIS/ COVID-19 delays). At this point, you do not need a combo card as you already have an immigrant visa that allows you to enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident where you can live, work, and travel internationally.

and wait to complete consular processing is a personal preference. You have to consider what is best for you individually and as a married couple. If your primary goal is to get to the United States more quickly, then a K-1 visa might be your best choice. Currently, it is taking about

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

8-10 months to get your K-1. Unfortunately, once you get to the U.S. using your K-1 visa, you cannot work or travel internationally until you receive your combo card. However, if you need to be able to work and travel internationally immediately upon arrival in the United States, you may prefer to get married in your home country and wait until you receive your immigrant visa from consular processing. It is best to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to help you decide on your best immigration strategy before filing any immigration petition. Your lawyer can help you accurately complete the correct applications, submit the most appropriate supporting documents, and help you prepare for your interview. It is also important to find a compassionate attorney who you can trust and who can best guide you through this very complicated and emotional process. For more information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit deshvidesh.com/Feb2022 or download our Mobile App. Please scan the QR code with a barcode-scanning app on your Apple or Android device. To download the mobile app to Apple devices, visit: https://apple.co/39oMqRu.

To download the mobile app to Android devices, visit: https://bit.ly/3wbJ2mF.

About the Author Attorney Seth Finberg is a 2005 graduate of the University of Georgia School of Law and is a member of the Georgia Bar and the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). He is the owner and founder of Finberg Firm PLLC (located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL), and he represents clients nationwide in the areas of business- and family-based immigration. Mr. Finberg is an active member of the Miami Asylum Office Committee for AILA South and Central Florida, and he serves as a legal captain in pro bono clinics for Temporary Protected Status and Citizenship. Seth has been recognized for his outstanding pro bono service by the South Florida chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, winning their 2021 Pro Bono Champion award. He can be reached by phone at (954) 249-6603 or by email at seth@finbergfirm.com at his Weston office currently, or at his new Hollywood office starting in February 2022.

Make Your Valentine’s Day Special by Chahna Tailor Gupta

ebruary – the month with a day dedicated to love! This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday instead of on the weekend. But that doesn’t mean it can’t

be enjoyed! COVID is a bit rampant right now, and some

Eat! Check out a cool Ayurvedic recipe on Google or Pinterest and cook up some nice breakfast, brunch/lunch, or dinner. You can even turn it into a picnic by sitting in the

people may not be comfortable doing things outside. So,

backyard or a local park (one that’s not too overpopulated)!

here are some fun ideas for a Valentine’s Day with a special

Or, make a charcuterie board (vegetarians can also have

someone (which can mean just you!):

fun with this!) by adding a range of different snacks and treats on a plate.

Check out a cool Ayurvedic recipe on Google or Pinterest and cook up some nice breakfast, brunch/lunch, or dinner.

Binge watch a show or have a movie day! Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Peacock, etc. – the streaming world is yours to enjoy! The romantic genre is not the only one up for grabs. Explore something new and interesting!

Create a spa retreat at home! If you have a tub, you can fill it up and add some bath salt. Give yourself a massage, or massage your partner. Make a rejuvenating, homemade Ayurvedic face mask or just a simple one with honey, turmeric, and sugar. You can even make cucumber water and throw on some relaxing music via YouTube or Spotify! Don’t forget to light some candles!

Do something creative! You can paint, make a craft, practice a skill (like sewing), or start a home improvement project! You can even take a virtual yoga or exercise class!

Have a game day! There are board games, game apps, video games, card games, and puzzles that can be played by yourself or with others!

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Check out the sunrise, the sunset, and the stars at night! Connect with nature! Even though this technically is an outdoor activity, it can be done in a safe way by going to the beach and being in an area where there are not a lot of people or by driving to a local park that allows you to isolate. You can also do this from home by looking from your driveway, backyard, patio, or window! Hopefully some of these ideas sound like something you’d like to try. Even if you end up doing none of them, show yourself some self-love by taking some time to relax!

About the Author Chahna Tailor Gupta is a certified yoga teacher and an Ayurvedic P ra c t i t i o n e r. With a background in occupational therapy, she delivers corporate wellness programs and personalized athome sessions where she integrates OT concepts and yoga practices to promote functional mobility and mindfulness. She received her yoga certifications from Akshi Yogashala in Rishikesh in India and Yogi Hari’s Ashram in Miramar, FL. She received her Ayurvedic studies from Sampoorna College of Ayurveda in Miami, FL and is continuing her studies there to become an Ayurvedic Doctor. She also volunteers for Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation South Florida Chapter, is a volunteer Hindu Chaplain for the South Florida community, and is an adjunct professor at International Hindu University. Her mission is to help others implement stress reduction techniques and take more time out for their own self-care.

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Four Books Parents Can Use to Fortify Their Children’s Education

A culture of reading is more likely to open doors to growth in society. Research from 2019 showed that the mere presence of 80 books or more at home is likely to predict better social growth and development for a young child.

by Dr. Conrad Hughes

eading at home is important. Evidence of the effects that reading (and a general culture of reading) has on adolescents in over 30 countries has shown that reading is good for personal development, intellectual growth, literacy, and even numeracy. A culture of reading is more likely to open doors to growth in society. Research from 2019 showed that the mere presence of 80 books or more at home is likely to predict better social growth and development for a young child. This is because having books at home suggests a culture and role-modeling of reading by parents, which in turn suggests that the child is exposed to articulate, informed expressions of ideas by the whole family. In other words, a culture of reading at home is something that can give children references, codes, and patterns of fluency that are socially empowering.

It is particularly good for children to see their parents reading – and for parents to read to their children. Bedtime stories or afternoon reading time are excellent ways of improving cognition, vocabulary, and grammatical structure. Discussing reading as a family is also a positive bonding activity.

It can be difficult to find the time to read, since the world we are living in is so fast moving and there are many sources of information around us, distracting our attention. It takes an effort to pull out a book and read it, but it’s worth it. My area of specialization is education, and there is no shortage

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

of literature on the subject. However, much of it is specialized and will not appeal to non-educators or to the general public: books on theories of cognition, social psychology, assessment, and curriculum design. I prefer to take a wide view on education when it comes to recommending books that parents might wish to read or even read directly to or with their children – in the cases of the books I am going to list, from about 14 years old on up.

Which books to read? In the 21st century, being an educated person means being a global citizen: someone who knows at least a little about cultures, stories, and histories other than one’s own. There are powerful narratives that should be read and shared. Here are four I have chosen, perhaps to read over the holiday break:

The Upanishads This gem of spiritual wisdom, thousands of years old, is a powerful gateway into Eastern thought. The German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer, who kept a copy with him at all times, said that the Upanishads were his consolation in life and would equally be his consolation in death. The text describes the Hindu and Buddhist concepts of the self, the soul, and pure spirit. The Upanishads can be read as aphorisms, in short sequences; and would be a good way to start each day: A few lines or pages bring the mind back to the essentials and allow us to put things into a larger perspective

Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela This

is a soaring masterpiece that takes us through the history of South Africa, including the inhumane apartheid system but also core African ideas and social structures. Nelson Mandela’s story speaks to all of us – for it is about resilience, humanity, and the victory of light over darkness. I would recommend this as essential reading for knowing about Southern African history, leadership, and moral justice.

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius This is a book I have my 15-year-old philosophy students read; but in truth, anyone can read it from about 14

years of age. It is a congregation of aphorisms about how to live one’s life, and contains extensive references to Greek and Roman history and philosophy. What transcends the book is an extraordinarily beautiful prose that takes us to the heart of universal psychological themes such as fear, happiness, accepting impermanence, and seeking inner peace. The Roman emperor’s text is a bedside book on education for life.

Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie A short, concise, and co m p e l l i n g read, this book is about empowering girls and educating children with feminist principles in mind. It can be read by any parent, not only those with female children. Following her famous Ted Talk We Should All Be Feminists, the author drives home some of the messages we can send our children to prevent them from growing up in the shadow of

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FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

gender stereotypes and sexism. Many of the seemingly innocuous, heteronormative associations we make and the subliminal messages we send to children are, in reality, skewed against women and girls. This book can be read and discussed as a family. Whether parents read bedtime stories to their children, gather around as a family to read extracts from a text, stretch out on the sofa to enjoy a work of fiction just for the pleasure of it, or create silent reading time at home, the essential is that there is reading, and that we put aside some precious time to be away from screens and to enjoy the power of the text and the mind-improving benefits that this brings. To me, educating our children in the 21st century is about teaching them to appreciate the human condition in all its diversity and

multiplicity. Holiday contribute to this.

reading

can

About the Author

However, much of it is specialized and will not appeal to non-educators or to the general public: books on theories of cognition, social psychology, assessment, and curriculum design.

Dr.

Conrad

Hughes PhD,

(MA,

EdD)

Campus

is and

Secondary Principal at the International School

G e n e v a ’ s La

Grande

Boissière, Research Associate at the University of Geneva’s department of

Education

and

Psychology,

Université de Genève. His EdD thesis (2019), written at Durham University, is

the

relationship

between

prejudice and education with a specific focus on how education can reduce prejudice.

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Soar that Score

he year is 2016. I am 19 years old, on my way to Brandsmart to buy a television. The TV

was $400 and some change, and I remember I did not have all the money up front. I was directed by the salesman to the financing department, and was told I could finance the TV instead of giving the whole $400 up front. My excitement quickly turned to dismay when I was

The entire way home all I could think about was, “if I could not even get a $400 television.. how am I supposed to get a car, house, or even a credit card?” I drove a 1995 Acura Integra at the time, but as we all know, with old cars come a lot of problems.

denied financing of a $400 television due to bad credit.

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Credit? First of all, what are these people even talking about? I had just graduated high school barely a year before, and was too busy raising a child to even think about credit or the importance of it. I remember the lady verbally telling me was score was 412, and I thought to myself that there is no way I can be that far from good credit since I had naturally excelled at almost everything in life thus far (academics, sports, etc), so imagine

my shock when I found out that the “good credit” scale started off at 700. The entire way home all I could think about was, “if I could not even get a $400 television.. how am I supposed to get a car, house, or even a credit card?” I drove a 1995 Acura Integra at the time, but as we all know, with old cars come a lot of problems. Although I was living at home, I obviously wasn’t going to be there

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

forever. Who knew that just a simple denial would trigger a lightbulb in my head .. to what is now my livelihood. From that day forward, I realized that credit is power. Literally. Good credit allows you to obtain good interest rates, high credit limits, travel for free, and more. I educated myself profusely on credit and how I could get myself out of the 400 range to at least a 700 by the end of

the year. Just for context purposes, the reason why my credit was bad in the first place was due to not completing college classes I was enrolled in. I thought since I left early enough, I wasn’t responsible for any remaining balance, when it turns out I surely was. Since I did not pay, I had 2 accounts in collections I was unaware about until that fateful day at Brandsmart. I spent the next couple of weeks enrolling in credit education courses allowing me to educate myself on all the ins and outs of credit in general. The next step was very vital … credit laws. What the bureaus can and can’t do, what creditors can and can’t do, and most importantly, the rights we have with the information that is on our credit report. It goes without saying that none of the information I mentioned above is taught to us in school, and its really up to us to just figure it out.

That is when Sore That Score Credit Education was born. After I successfully brought my credit to the 700 range in a matter of months, I felt compelled to help others do the same. I knew the feeling of not knowing anything about credit overall and on top of that, how do I go about fixing it? Now I dedicate myself to not teaching people about credit, but helping them repair and maintain their credit as well.

About the Author My name is Talia Sudore and I am a Florida native. I started my credit journey when I was 19 and I was figuring out the world as most 19 year old's do. I specialize in teaching people how to build, maintain, and repair their credit so that they can enjoy the finer things in life.

For more information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit www.deshvidesh.com/Feb2022/ or download our Mobile App.

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FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Online

Georgia

Orlando

Atlanta Metro

When: 02/18/2022

India Day 2022 Magic vs Grizzlies

Contact: 573-578-9217

When: 02/05/2022, 5:00 PM

When: 02/13/2022, 4:00 PM

Email: manoj.vallati@artofliving.org

Where: Amway Center

Where: Shree Sadhana Mandir

400 W Church St #200,

5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd STE 733,

Orlando,32801

Norcross,30071

Contact: Jack Lensky 407-916-2949

Contact: Acharya Joshiji 770-310-5944

Host: Indian American Chamber of

Email: vedjoshiji@gmail.com

Commerce

Host: Shree Sadhana Mandir

SKY Breath Meditation

Host: Sky Breath Meditation

North Indians in USA When: 02/19/2022, 3:30 PM EST Contact: 202-368-8427

Sunderkand Paath

Email: Dezidreamz2@Gmail.com

Valentines Day Dinner & Dance

Host: Desi Dreams

When: 02/12/2022, 6:00 PM

5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd STE 733,

North Indian Singles

11184 S Apopka Vineland Rd,

When: 02/26/2022, 3:00 PM EST

Orlando,32836

Contact: 202-368-8427

Contact: Jitenbhai 407-924-7015

Host: Desi Dreams

Republic Day Celebrations When: 02/27/2022, 11:59 PM Email: info@panoramaindia.org Host: Panorama India

Florida

Jacksonville Valentines Bollywood Karaoke Party When: 02/12/2022, 5:00 PM Where: Bartram Springs Clubhouse 14530 Cherry Lake Drive East, Jacksonville,32258 Email: ec@Jaxics.org Host: Indian Cultural Society of Jacksonville

When: 02/16/2022, 6:00 PM Where: Shree Sadhana Mandir

Where: JCC Rosen Center

Email: Dezidreamz2@Gmail.com

Satyanarayan Katha

Norcross,30071

Email: info@gujaratisocietycfl.com Host: Gujarati Society Central Florida

Contact: Acharya Joshiji 770-310-5944 Email: vedjoshiji@gmail.com Host: Shree Sadhana Mandir

Som Pradosh Maharudrabhishek

Tampa

Maha Kumbhabhishekam When: 02/09/2022 Where: The Hindu Temple of Florida 5509 Lynn Rd, Tampa,33624 Contact: 813-962-6890 Email: contactus@htfl.org Host: The Hindu Temple of Florida

When: 02/28/2022, 7:00 PM Where: Shree Sadhana Mandir 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd STE 733, Norcross,30071 Contact: Acharya Joshiji 770-310-5944 Email: vedjoshiji@gmail.com Host: Shree Sadhana Mandir

Indiafest 2022 When: 03/05/2022 , 10:00 AM Where: Wickham Park 2500 Parkway Dr, Melbourne,32935 Contact: Yasmin Majeed 321-720-8590 Email: indiafestbr@gmail.com Host: Manav Mandir FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

A Walk in a forest When I started my walk, I heard the leaves talk, The wind swayed with happiness, The leaves enjoyed like a mistress. A walk in a forest is like a paradise with beauty and joy The beautiful flowers greeted me, While the bees danced with me, As I passed through the evergreen, The lioness sat like a queen A walk in a forest is like a paradise with wonder and evergreen The birds chirped and sang, And i felt welcomed here again As the monkeys played around, The elephant made a bound A walk in a forest is like a paradise with bound and sound The crystal clear waterfall, Made me see my soul. Its precious water, Made my mind free from danger. A walk in a forest is like a paradise with quite and peace

Kriti Binani is in Grade 7th. She lives in Mumbai and studies in Cambridge School. She participated in Oratory Skills related competitions. She wrote this prize winning poem for her poetry competition in school. She likes to spend time with her friends and family.

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas Welcome their Daughter couple’s first child is born through surrogacy. The entire world of showbiz was overjoyed at this sudden announcement of the wonderful news. Messages congratulating the couple started pouring in since the news was made public. The baby is a premature baby, born 12 weeks before the due date at a hospital in Southern California. She was scheduled to be born in April and the Jonas couple was gearing up for the April arrival of their child. However, the baby is still at the hospital and will remain there till she is healthy and grown enough to be with her mom and dad. Priyanka organized her work front much earlier to be with her baby in April. Now, the new mom and dad are eagerly waiting to welcome their daughter at home.

ndia’s own ‘Desi Girl’ Priyanka Chopra becomes a mother. She and her pop star husband Nick Jonas announced the arrival of their

daughter on 22 January at midnight. They took to their Instagram handles and shared the good news with their fans and followers in a statement. The

Both Priyanka and Nick have appealed to provide them with some privacy to enjoy their special moment with the child. They had plans of starting their family and accordingly, they have renovated their Los Angeles home keeping in mind their child’s need and space for the newborn. They tied the marital knot on December 1, 2018, at Jodhpur, following both Hindu and Christian wedding rituals. And now they are overjoyed to embrace the bliss of parenthood.

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Akshay Kumar-starrer Raksha Bandhan will have a Theatrical Release

Bhumi Pednekar opens up about her Upcoming Film Badhaai Do

aksha Bandhan the Anand L Rai directed and Akshay Kumar starrer film will have a theatrical release this year around Raksha Bandhan. The director confirmed this news. Raksha Bandhan as the name suggests is an emotional story of the eternal bond between brothers and sisters. The story is based in the small towns of India. It is the second consecutive film of Anand L Rai with Akshay Kumar after the super hit film Atrangi Re. The director narrated the story of Raksha Bandhan to Akshay Kumar and the hero instantly agreed.

According to Anand L Rai, this film is like a detox process for him after conceiving and directing a film like Atrangi Re, which is based on complex emotions. Raksha Bandhan sticks to the basic emotion of love between siblings. However, according to the director, it is difficult to deal with basic emotions. He used all his life lessons in drafting the story of Raksha Bandhan. It is an honest film about the bonding between brothers and sisters. Anand L Rai confirmed the theatrical release of this film on August 11, 2022. The date coincides with the festival of Raksha Bandhan celebrated all over India. The shootings at Mumbai and Delhi have been completed and Akshay Kumar mentioned the wonderful time he had during the shooting. The film also has Bhumi Pednekar as a lead actor. The director is confident about the theatrical release of the film and said that there would be no change in plans. Raksha Bandhan is produced by Zee Studios, Colour Yellow Productions and Cape of Good Films.

humi Pednekar, the super-talented actor has portrayed many roles depicting the different shades of human personality. Now she is ready

for the release of her upcoming film Badhaai Do, where she plays a lesbian school teacher who gets married to a cop named Shardul Thakur (played by Rajkummar Rao) to get rid of social pressure. Incidentally, Rajkummar is also gay and the couple faces a lot of social and familial compulsion and stress. The film will release on February 11, 2022.

The film directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni is a sequel to the 2018 super hit movie Badhaai Ho that received National Awards in the category of best film providing wholesome entertainment and best supporting actress. Bhumi is extremely happy to play the role of Suman in the film. She feels that the film deals with a subject that needs to be told in India. She expressed that she is constantly in search of unique roles and this film has allowed focusing on the sensitive portrayal of a role that signifies an emotion that can be termed as an eye-opener for India. Rajkummar Rao is equally happy to be a part of this

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FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

film and said that he was indebted to the makers for considering him in the role of Shardul, which is very close to his heart. The trailer has been released and received by the audience with great praise. It has already crossed more than 43.9 million views on various platforms. Bhumi said that she was overwhelmed by the response of the fans and viewers and waiting eagerly for the release.

Gangubai Kathiawadi to Release on February 25, 2022

Ajay Devgan Hopeful of India’s Prospect in OTT Content

angubai Kathiawadi, the much-discussed film directed by the famous director Sanjay Leela Bhansali will release on February 25, 2022. The date was declared by the director in his social media handle. Covid 19, Lockdown and restrictions on theatres have delayed the release of this film. Several dates were declared since 2020 but had to be cancelled for several reasons. The story is based on the life and struggles of Gangubai in the socio-political background of Mumbai in the 1960s. Alia Bhatt plays the role of Gangubai, who was a sex worker at the red-light area of Kamathipura in Mumbai. She was pushed into this profession at an early age. The film narrates the story of Gangubai’s life where she became the head of the brothel and then entered politics and emerged as a leader at Kamathipura. This is Alia’s first film with the ace director Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The trailer of the film and Alia’s different look as Gangubai has attracted the attention of the fans and viewers. Ajay Devgan is also a part of the film.

Eminent actor Ajay Devgan is extremely hopeful about the OTT content created by the Indian makers and is confident that they can go beyond the international shows regarding the OTT content. This remark and optimism hold special significance in respect to the OTT boom in India and the great preference of the Indian audience for OTT content. Devgan is actively participating in the OTT platforms. Rudra: The Edge Of Darkness which will be premiered on Hotstar will mark his OTT debut. He is the producer of the web series The Great Indian Murder which will be shown on Hotstar soon. In an interview with the media, he said that he along with his team are working on several projects for the OTT and by the end of 2022 he will be able to bring more shows for the OTT.

Before its release in India, Gangubai Kathiawadi will have an international premiere at 72nd Berlin International Film Festival in February. The film was selected in a special category named Berlinale Special. This year, the selection criterion was films that were shot during the Covid 19 Pandemic. The Festival’s Artistic Director Carlo Chatrian told the media that the reason behind the selection of Gangubai Kathiawadi was the relevance of the subject of the film. This relevance is universal and not limited to the Indian context.

Supporting the OTT platform Ajay said that it provides a lot of liberty to the makers. They can approach many themes and subjects that would not be possible in the big-screen format. Praising the rich and diverse culture of India, he said that Indian makers can work on a variety of subjects and content that has the potential to go beyond the international shows. Rudra: The Edge Of Darkness is one of the greatest shows on the Indian OTT platform. It is the Indian version of the popular British series, Luther. Producers of Rudra are Applause Entertainment and BBC Studios India. Apart from Ajay Devgan, it also has Esha Deol, Raashi Khanna, Atul Kulkarni, Ashwini Kalsekar and Ashish Vidyarthi in various roles.

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

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Saumya Kamble from Pune bagged the title of ‘India’s Best Dancer- Season 2’ Saumya Kamble is the new champion of Indi’s Best Dancer Season 2. The 16-year-old girl from Pune mesmerized the judges Terence Lewis, Geeta Kapur and Malaika Arora. Her skills in belly dancing and freestyle dance were highly acclaimed by not only the judges but also the celebrity guests. Singing legend Asha Bhosle lovingly called her ‘Choti Helen’. Praising her belly dancing skills actor Nora Fatehi gifted her belly dancing coin belt. Saumya was awarded a trophy and cash prize of 1.5 Million INR by Sony Entertainment Television and a Maruti Suzuki Swift Car. Her choreographer Vartika Jha got a .5 million cash prize. Saumya defeated the finalists Gourav Sarwan from Jaipur, Roza Rana from Odisha, Raktim Thakuria from Assam and Zamroodh from Kerala. Gourav Sarwan was declared the first runner up and Roza Rana the second runner up. The teenager’s father wants her to become a doctor and her mother wants her to become a famous dancer. Saumya has been trying to strike a balance between both her parents’ wishes without compromising on her skills. Her father called her ‘India’s Best Daughter’ in the show. Her choreographer also praised her skills, diligence and quick learning aptitude.

Saumya was on cloud nine after winning the show. She thanked all the judges and viewers who voted for her. She made special mention of her choreographer Vartika Jha calling her elder sister. According to Saumya,

this show became an integral part of her life and dance will be a vital part of her future life. She thanked all the like-minded people she met at the show and expressed her gratitude for the learning experience at the platform.

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FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

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Help Wanted! Chicago Family Seeking FT LIVE IN/OUT lady for house help/care of elderly parents; especially father has Dementia and Parkinsons. Good pay. Must have elderly care experience, US permit to work, Covid-19 vaccinated. References Must. Contact: Harpreet 973-970-5190 Hiring Cashier (Alabama) 60 Hours per week No Paperwork needed Accommodation Provided No Experience needed $12 to $15 Per Hour Call Ali 205-777-2907

we looking resident manager at Motels phoenix AZ free Accommodation and good pay Single, couple, Speak English email Resume. sam.shhospitality@gmail.com SALES REPRESENTATIVES for NATURAL STONE COMPANY. Location - NJ, NY, PA, CT, MA. Company car after confirmation. Good growth potential. Salary plus commission. call Jay at 917-402-1995 OR mail resume: desitiles@msn.com Property manager/ Customer Service / Dispatcher. Job details Salary $18 - $20 an hour Job Type Part-time Number of hires for this role 1 Contact: 602-832-8820 Looking for experienced single or couple to operate & manage franchised hotel in upstate NY. Accommodation provided. Salary $48k -72k. Call 518-879-4339

Bharatiya Temple of Lansing (Michigan) is looking for a full time priest to perform daily Vedic rituals/ceremonies & other priestly duties approved by temple management. Good communication skills, team player & obey lawful directives & instructions given by the temple management.Apply to BTLchair@lansingtemple.org Project Manager & Area Manager position available for a hotel management company based in Florence, SC Must relocate to Florence, SC Must have 3 years of hotel management experience, hotel opening experience preferred Email resume to: anandpatel@high-risehotels.com Seeking vegetarian Indian cook to work at our home in Miami, FL. Full Time. Email: shail@mahudi.com or 786-246-5006

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Ekta Kapoor celebrates her son’s birthday at Siddhivinayak temple Ekta Kapoor, the ace producer of popular TV serials and films, celebrated her son Ravie’s third birthday at the Siddhivinayak Temple on January 27, 2022. Ravie is named after his famous grandfather Jeetendra, whose original name is Ravi Kapoor. He was accompanied by his mother Ekta and his grandfather Jeetendra at the Siddhivinayak temple for the celebration through prayers and Puja. Ekta made a wonderful video of the different moments of her son’s activities and posted it on social media. Ravie was seen enjoying moments of cuddling with his mother, playing joyfully with his cousin Laksshya (the son of Ekta’s brother, Tusshar Kapoor), and various other moments. The background song of the video was ‘Baar Baar Din Ye Aaye’, an old hit song by Md Rafi and picturised on Jeetendra.

Pavitra Rishta, Season 2 Gets Viewers’ Praise

Ravie seemed to enjoy the celebrations thoroughly. He posed with a wonderful smiling face at the temple and sitting on his grandpa’s lap. Mother Ekta looked happy and content at the temple, celebrating his son’s birthday. The COVID restrictions were observed by them, as all of them (including the little Ravie) were wearing masks. Celebrities showered their love and blessings on little Ravie on his birthday. Uncle Tusshar Kapoor posted a lovely collage with pictures of Ekta and Ravie whom he lovingly calls ‘Ravioli’ and ‘Apple of our Eyes’ and blessed his nephew. Actorturned-politician Smriti Irani blessed Ravie with a beautiful montage of videos of Ekta and her son, calling Ravie a blessing for his mother and the entire family. Ekta thanked her on behalf of her son, calling Smriti the ‘best maasi (maternal aunt) ever’!

Pavitra Rishta, the famous TV serial, made Sushant Singh Rajput and Ankita Lokhande famous back in 2009. Now, the second season of the same serial was presented as a web series; and viewers are still in awe of the story of Manav and Archana. It was hugely praised by most of the viewers; and the new approach and modern storytelling were highly acclaimed. Ankita Lokhande resumed the role of Archana in the second season, while this time Shaheer Sheikh played the role of Manav. The web series was released in two parts in 2021. The first part was well appreciated; and no sooner was the second part released than the viewers started binge-watching the episodes. Ankita Lokhande’s acting prowess has made her the perfect Archana, even after the long gap of 12 years. Viewers also liked

the performance of Shaheer Sheikh as Manav, and admired the delightfully enjoyable chemistry between the two. The contemporary storyline and the eternal bond between Manav and Archana is the essence of the story; and the audience are in full admiration of the new plot. The risk of reintroducing such a famous serial was a factor. But the audience convinced producer Ekta Kapoor that her decision of creating a second season was the right choice. Fans are still in love with the tenderly beautiful portrayal of the love and feeling of belonging between Manav and Archana in contemporary times. Words of applause and admiration were showered in social media for both Ankita and Shaheer. The timeless appeal of their love story has been proven enduring once again.

FEBRUARY 2022 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Mouni Roy Gets Married

Anupama Tops TRP but Loses Points It is still at the top of

watch the details about

the TRP list, but Anupamaa

Vanraj and his tricks. They

its

are also not interested in

points

the romance between Anuj

perhaps

losing

popularity. received

The by

the

serial

are of the opinion that the serial is being dragged

story of the struggle of a

unnecessarily.

the audience. Viewers have showered so much praise and admiration for Rupali the

evening,

the knot with her beau

was time for the Bengali

Suraj Nambiar on January

wedding. Mouni chose a

27, 2022, in Goa. Suraj is a

red Lehenga designed by

Dubai-based entrepreneur

Sabyasachi for the Bengali

and they have been dating

wedding

Viewers

What started as a gripping

now becoming boring for

Anupamaa.

shows its dropping fame.

middle-class housewife is

Actor Mouni Roy tied

and

Ganguly who portrays the role of Anupamaa that she gradually became a role model of modest protest and perseverance.

Fans

Anupamaa

wishes to see her role as an independent and selfreliant woman that can encourage several middleaged housewives like her. There are enough negativity and suffering in the life of the common man. Hence they do not wish to see

The

There is still no other

further negativity in their

since 2019. The wedding

venue of the ceremonies

serial to replace Anupamaa

favourite serial. The growth

ceremony

was the Hilton Resort of

from

position.

of Anupamaa will create a

by some of the Bollywood

Goa. Bollywood celebrities

However, if this downfall

feeling of fulfilment among

friends of Mouni along with

like Mandira Bedi, Arjun

continues, there will be

them.

the family members of both

Bijlani,

Goradia,

others to replace Anupamaa.

bride and the groom. The

Rahul of DID fame attended

What are the factors that

pre-wedding

the

Mandira

the audience does not like

and Arjun posted several

about Anupama? An in-

celebrated the day before

pictures

couple.

depth analysis and opinion

the marriage.

Mouni also posted a picture

of the viewers show that

of her wedding and sought

they are not interested to

was

attended

ceremonies

of Haldi and Mehndi were

Suraj being a Malayali and Mouni a Bengali, was a of

happy both

co-existence rituals.

the

ceremony.

Aashka wedding. of

the

for a long time. The actor

rituals. Mouni was looking

however did not comment

exquisitely beautiful in a

in this regard. Mouni Roy

typically

marriage

bridal

is famous for the show Naagin and films like Gold

red

starring

Akshay

back the lost points and create new records for the serial.

Kumar;

bridal jewelry. The groom

she will be seen in the film

looked dashing in beige

Brahmastra

kurta and traditional white

Kapoor,

mundu.

Amitabh Bachchan.

the story. This will bring

Mouni

attire of white saree with in

to bring out positivity in

There was a buzz about

married following Malayali

adorned

This is perhaps a message to the makers of the serial

wishers. the

border

top

blessings from all her well-

morning the couple got

Malayali

the

Alia

with

Ranbir

Bhatt

and

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Desh-Videsh February 2022

Articles inside

Desi TV Duniya

Soar that Score

Community News

Make Your Valentine’s Day Special

Marriage-Based Green Cards

Why I am against Conversion

Celebrating the Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda

NRI News

A Walk in a forest