Desi Australia Monthly eMagazine – Issue July 2019

JULY 2019

AUSTRALIa’S MOST POPULAR SOURCE OF SOUTH ASIAN MEDIA

“Keeping you connected”

Japan…

The Land Beyond Cherry Blossoms

Saree Soirée of Sydney

Travel: p40

Mag Corner: p06

Sydney Sanskrit School 2019 Grammar Camp

Deepti Naval’s

Diversity

Entertainment: p56

wins the crown!

Priya Serrao

Miss Universe Australia 2019 Cover Story: p30

NEWS I EVENTS I Health I LEGAL I TECHNOLOGY I TAROT I FOOD I Gallery

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Photo Credit: Jerrad Seng

Community News: p51

Poetry-a painting of emotions

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WHAT’S INSIDE Priya Serrao

In Inc48 Lean Connect Grow Achieve Networking Event 2019 you need 38 Everything to know about the Demerit Points System in NSW

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Miss Universe Australia 2019

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Women’s Networking Evening hosted by IWiN

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Dinner for 28 Farewell Ms Gai Brodtmann with 23 YouGo Yoga for a Mindful You meatless 44 Mouth-watering Chile con ‘carne’

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Japan…

The Land Beyond Cherry Blossoms

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06 of Sydney

Saree Soirée

SATH SATH” 08 “HAQ-O-AMAN a showcase of Hindi-Urdu Mushaera

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PUBLISHER Desi Media Group (Desi Australia Pty Ltd)

Editor-in-chief Arti Banga

NSW Editor: Harmohan Walia

Sales and Marketing: Dimple Deez

Victoria Editor: Garima Dhawan

Queensland Editor: Priya Singh

ACT Editor: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Western Australia Editor: Ankita Tandon

South Australia Editor: Daljeet Bakshi Address: Desi Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 102, Casula, NSW 2170 Email : info@DesiAustralia.com

Mob: 0433121339

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Do not re-use any content and photo from Desi Australia without the prior written permission from the editor. All the material published in Desi Australia, including articles, features, fillers, advertisements, and all other contents, are published in good faith, and the editor or the Desi Australia magazine cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions. All material is published on the understanding that it is copyright free, and Desi Australia accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. We also cannot accept responsibility for and do not endorse views expressed by the contributors.

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Hello Everyone, From yoga to entertainment to community events and festivals last one month has seen it all.

The 5th International Day of Yoga 2019 was celebrated with great enthusiasm and vigour across the major cities of Australia with the aim to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga.

The theme for this year was ‘Yoga for Climate Action’.

Ladies celebrated the festival of Teej through various gatherings and events while the Indian born Australian Priya Serrao won the Miss Universe Australia 2019.The outcome of this pageant is testimony to the extent to which multiculturalism is valued in Australia.

A contestant of Indian heritage, representing this wonderful country in a global platform truly showcases Australia as a land of opportunity where courage and hard work are recognised and rewarded.

In this issue we have brought

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Arti Banga

Editor-in-Chief

to you the articles on health, finance, food, technology, entertainment and along with the happenings across the major cities of Australia.

Read on to learn more about these and lots more that’s been happening around Australia.

DesiAustralia.com “Keeping you connected”

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Mag Corner

Saree Soirée of Sydney

T By: Preeti Gupta

he group Saree Lovers is a growing tribe of the Six yard sisterhood, which transcends the geo-political divisions of the world. A successful First Annual Meet on 8th September 2018 acted as a catalyst for Shirley, Poornima and I to ensure that the ‘busyness’ of our lives did not push it to the back burner! We would like to acknowledge that the interest in knowing the details about the next Meet saw us set the date 2 months earlier than last year!

The SL page on Facebook is just a year young and has more than a 1000 members. The main purpose of this group is to foster the sisterhood of the six yard fabric. We also felt we needed to raise awareness about the various issues migrant women face in a new cultural context. The recent spate of domestic violence incidents leading to fatalities shook us and the Indian (Sub-Continent) Crisis and Support Agency (ICSA) was selected as the charity of choice for this year’s event.

7th July 2019, was a very foggy morning, but by mid-day the Sun rays cut through the curtain of fog and the Roselea Community Centre at Carlingford was bathed in the warmth of winter Sun. Adding oomph factor to the event were the bevy of beauties sashaying the room in their gorgeous sarees. The explosion of colours that came with almost 200 women at the venue was a sight to behold. The excitement was palpable.

We are very proud to have once again provided a platform to the enterprising women who wanted to put up stalls for all things connected to our attire of choice. We are also very excited to share

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Mag Corner

with you that the tales of the fabulous event reached the shores across the Atlantic, and we had Indraani Beedu all the way from Houston as a part of our select group of stall owners.

Heartfelt gratitude to Jodi McKay, NSW leader of the Opposition, who was very gracious to join us and share her love affair with the Six Yards of fabric and is a very proud owner of 70 sarees from the Sub-continent. She carried the garment like a pro. She shared many anecdotes, which inspired some of the shy amongst us to also own the stage holding the rest of us captive to the narrative of their six yards of fabric and that speaks volumes about this sisterhood! There were some amongst us who experimented with creative ways of draping the lovely fabric. It was indeed lovely to see the blending of the cultures.

When we played a certain medley, magically the venue became a ramp and all the ladies in myriad hues and fabrics swayed down the aisle to the number ‘Pretty Woman’ by Orbison. It

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was certainly a sight to behold.

There was Tambola and the calling out was done in the inimitable fauji style by Shirley, which had the crowd sweating and on the edge of the seat as we went through it at a fast pace.

The music by DJ Dimple was superb; the fading in and out was very much in-sync with the proceedings of the afternoon. The selection of music especially when the dance floor was open for business to end the evening. We also had iFocus fotography at hand to capture the candid moments throughout the afternoon.

A big shout out to our various sponsors without whom we could not have offered the many prizes for the Raffle and the Tambola that we did. Five Pleats for a stunning saree as the first prize for Raffle, Sunay Dochania from Amarsons Pearls Secunderabad, Rinku Bhatia’s online jewellery shopping portal KRHEA, TV Innovations, Spoorthi Handicrafts, Zuri Pashmina Shawls, Lillian Sandra Sarvotham

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for the amazing Cake, Abbey Singh for our make-up and hair styling. A special thank you to Asha Mehta for making a substantial donation to the ICSA. Last but not the least the FOOD, our heartfelt thanks to the owner and Chef extraordinaire Jacob Chacko of Royal India Catering for the sumptuous spread. For savoury, there was idlisambhar, chole bhature, golgappe, dahibhalle, dabelli, bhel puri,chicken skewers and for desserts, there was seevaiyan ki kheer and piping hot jalebi’s straight from the frying pan!

Shirley, Poornima and I are most humbled and overwhelmed by the positive feedback to our second event. Saree Lovers’ Annual Meet is definitely a part of the Sydney Events’ Calendar.

Please look out for our invite to the next one, which will be in 2020.

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Arts and Culture

I

ndian Crescent Society of Australia Inc. (ICSOA) organised a joint HindiUrdu Mushaira on Saturday 6th July 2019 at Berala Community Centre, Berala. Theme of the program was “HAQO-AMAN SATH SATH”.

ICSOA requested poets to incorporate the theme when writing their poetry. Almost all poets presented their poetry highlighting the theme of togetherness, peace and harmony.

Grand Mushaera was graced by the dignitaries including Hon. Manish Gupta, Consul General of India; Hon. Dr. Harinath, Chairperson; Multicultural NSW. The theme Haq-o-Aman sath sath was inspiring and poets covered this theme very well in their poetry, Shaeri and

“HAQ-O-AMAN SATH SATH” a showcase of HindiUrdu Mushaera

Promoting peace, harmony and togetherness through literature and poetry.

Kavita.

Program began with the recitation of verses from Holy Quran by Master Zain Khan. Dignitaries were called on the stage by ICSOA secretary Mr. Fasihuddin Khan who

was also MC for the event. Another MC who was accompanying the Secretary was Mrs. Iram Rasheed. Hon. Mansih Gupta reiterated that Ganga Jamuni Tehzib is the identity of India and Urdu is inseparable language. Dr. Harinath praised the initiative and said that this type of events will boost peace, harmony and mutual understanding among communities.

Mr. Abbas Raza Alvi, President of ICSOA welcomed all dignitaries, poets, artists, guests, representatives of different organisations, community leaders, sponsors and media partners.

Mr. Alvi addressed the audience and shared the purpose of association, which is promoting peace, harmony, pluralism and multiculturism.

Networking and promoting arts and culture is also part of the ICSOA objectives.

Executives of ICSOA are Mr. Abbas Chelat (Treasurer); Mr. Siddique Panwala (Lega adviser); Mr. Hassan Kureshi (PR); Dr. Habib Bhurawala (coordinator health), Mr. Fasihuddin Khan (Secretary) Children from Language School who read

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Arts and Culture

poetry were Ms. Fiza Fatima and Ms. Imamah Matloob amid applause from audiences.

Poets from India and Pakistan joined the local Sydney poets to make this a memorable event. Mohammad Izhar UL Haq (Paskistan); Mr. Khurshbir Singh SHAAD (India); Prof.

Rais Alvi (Pakistan); Prof. R.P Mathur (India); Prof. Rekha Diwedi (India); Mr. Muslim Alavi (Pakistan)joined the local Sydney poets Rekha Rajvanshi; Dr. Rekha Diwedi; Harmolan Walia; Mr. Abbas Raza Alvi; Dr. Shabbir Haider; Mr. Shuja Aatif; Mr. Arshad Saeed; Mr. Rehan Alavi; Mr. Javed Nazar; Mr. Shahid Malik “Deewana”; Mrs. S Cherry Zia; Mrs. Safaq Jaffri. Mr. Saba Sadique; Mr. Bhawna Kunwar; Mrs. Kausar Jamal; Mr. Taufiq Ahmad; Mr. Wali Siddiqui; Mr. Zubair Ahmad; Mr. Virat Nehru; Mr. Shashi Rawat; Mr. Rajiv Maini; Dr. Shalja Chaturvedi; Mrs. Neena Bhadwar and Mr. Prageet Kunwar.

All poets including Hindi and Urdu were amazing, their poetry was of high standard and covered all aspects of humanity. Audiences cannot resist themselves without saying Irashad and Muqarrar.

More than thirty Poets registered their interest to read and participate in the Mushaera and Kavi Sammelan.

Some of highlights of guest poets: Mohammad Izar UL Haq: “parinde mere wazir; jugnoo safeer honGe” “maiN apna andaze hukmarani badal raha hooN” Khushbir Singh Shaad poetry: “Usiki Aabayari Kar raha hooN” Mujhe jo dard worse meiN mila hai”

Prof. Rais Alvi: “Zamana HusN ki Azmat ko Dekhna chahey” “Zamana ahle Muhabbat ko dekhna chahe” Mr. Muslim Alavi: “Aaj phir wo RaqeeboN ke nerghe meiN the” Aaj phir hoke ham badgumaN Aagaye” The ‘Haq-O-Aman Sath-Sath’ was an excellent idea to promote peace, harmony and togetherness through literature and poetry.

Poetry is a very effective tools and medium to convey message of HARMONY and PEACE. Both literatures Hindi and Urdu can play a very important role in spreading and promoting the message of PEACE. Mushaera was concluded by vote of thanks on behalf of ICSOA, which was delivered by Ms. Bushra Khan. During her vote of thanks, she acknowledged sponsors, media partners, guests, overseas poets, local poets, artists and dignitaries for their participation and making the program a memorable one.

ICSOA is planning to continue this event as an annual feature.

Photo Credit: Harmohan Walia

Mrs. Rekha, who organized a list of poets from ILASA, ‘Indian Literary and Arts Society of Australia’, some young poets and some older

ones who have flourished under her guidance and motivation to write poems, as she read her poem: “Chal iss tarah se Kuch, dosti ada ker leN ; MaiN Teri Quran parhooN Tu Meri Geeta ParhE”

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Gallery

Punjabi Women Association of Australia organised the Mela Teeyan Da 15th year in a row.

Bowman Hall was turned into a colourful sea of Phulkaris and Punjabi suits as over 1000 ladies of different generations came from together to celebrate their culture and tradition of Teej Festival. It was a perfect day full of entertainment with Live singing and dancing spreading the message of love and friendship.Essence of the event is beautifully captured by EventOZ.

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Mela Teeyan Da 2019

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Gallery

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Community News | Melbourne

Foreign Flame...

By: Daljeet Bakshi

A

thriller movie made in Australia with a desi touch sparks flame, winning laurels.

Foreign Flame movie has a great story line, screenplay, excellent direction by Jaga Peddi and marvellous acting by talented actors. This is a thriller movie shot in Melbourne, Australia & depicts several challenges faced by immigrants in a new country; Marriage can be a difficult transition.

to be with her husband but is unable to adjust to her husband’s lifestyle.

The story is about the inner struggle for both the partners, one trying to forget his love while the other trying to adjust and understand the new life chosen by her parents. The story of a newlywed bride coming to a new country where she doesn’t have the support of her husband and no friends, the affect that has on her mental and physical health.

She is a victim of domestic abuse and contacts the Police a number of times for help. The Police play an important role in investigating the domestic abuse issue as well as the murder investigation later in the film.

Among actors, Melbourne‘s Known personality Satinder Chawla has shown his versatile acting skills to a excellent mark in Foreign Flame. Mr Chawla who has already won many awards for his acting skills is active in social, cultural, sports, religious, humanitarian activities. He is Actor, AFL Multicultural Community Ambassador, Commonwealth 2018 Multicultural Ambassador Goldcoast, Landmark Community Sports Club Founder and President, Badminton Victoria Coach.

Desi Australia team wishes all the best to Foreign Flame team!

Director Jaga Peddi and his whole team are on a winning spree, already won Best Director and Best Actors Awards Foreign Flame.

Foreign Flame has strong storyline about a young Indian student immigrant to Australia meets and falls in love with a local girl, but the affair is short-lived. He reluctantly agrees to an arranged marriage with a nice Indian girl. Little does he know how his actions will influence his life and the twists and turns of fate that he will be caught in...

The film revolves around the story of a young man (Pranav), who migrates to Australia for a better life and instantly gets fascinated by the urban lifestyle. He marries a simple Indian girl (Sampoorna), due to family pressure inspite of loving someone else (Sandy), in Australia. The girl also migrates later to Australia

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Community News | Adelaide

Learn English at TAFE SA

FREE ENGLISH CLASSES Welcome!

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at TAFE SA provides free English classes in the city, Salisbury, Noarlunga, suburbs and regional South Australia to eligible clients.

You may be eligible to study for free.

AMEP is funded by the Australian Government and provides up to 510 hours of free English language lessons to eligible migrants and humanitarian entrants. If you have been granted a permanent visa or an eligible temporary visa and speak little or no English, you may be eligible for AMEP. Some migrant youths aged between 15 and 17 years of age may also be eligible.

English language skills will help your family.

In a TAFE SA AMEP class, you will learn English language skills and information about Australian society. You will meet other new arrivals with similar backgrounds, experiences and goals and may make new friends.

Together these will help you and your family settle successfully in Australia.

AMEP is flexible and allows you to learn at your own pace.

You can choose from a range of learning options.

An AMEP Counsellor will help you to choose from two streams of tuition: 1. Pre-employment English stream - for clients who wish to gain functional English to participate in the workplace, or further training which may lead to sustainable employment.

2. Social English stream - for clients wanting to improve their competence in conversational English to help them participate socially and to gain the confidence to live independently within their local community.

Free child care and crèche.

Our child care co-ordinator will help AMEP clients arrange a place for their child / children in one of the TAFE SA AMEP onsite crèches. These are available at Adelaide City Campus, Salisbury Campus and Mt Gambier Campus. In some cases, child care is provided in off campus child care centres. A number of our community-based class venues have on site crèches.

All children with arranged child care will experience a warm and welcoming care environment, which will stimulate and support their growth and learning.

This will also enhance the child's overall development and support their settlement in Australia.

My name is Champa Baidya. I came to Australia in 2017. I have been in Australia for nearly two years.

I went to TAFE SA and I started to learn English.

In my opinion TAFE SA is the best institute for learning English and about Australia for immigrants.

AMEP also provides: > English for settling in Australia > Free childcare for under school age children while parents attend AMEP classes > Employment course with work experience > Volunteer Home Tutor Scheme (a trained tutor visits you at home) > Referral to other TAFE SA courses including advanced level language and employment preparation courses and much more.

To register for the AMEP visit your nearest TAFE SA AMEP campus.

TAFE SA AMEP campus locations: Adelaide City Campus 120 Currie Street Adelaide SA 5000 Phone: 8226 6555 Berri Campus 36 Kay Avenue Berri SA 5343 Phone: 8821 0427 Noarlunga Campus Ramsay Place Noarlunga Centre SA 5168 Phone: 8207 3033 Mount Gambier Campus Wireless Road West Mount Gambier SA 5290 Phone: 8735 1586 Salisbury Campus 16 Wiltshire Street Salisbury SA 5108 Phone: 8207 9855

I enjoy learning English from all of the teachers.

They all are lovely.

Campbelltown Uniting Church Hall 607 Lower North East Road Campbelltown SA 5074 Arndale Community Class Salvation Army Centre 14 Arndale Street Kilkenny SA 5008 Kilburn Community Class 59 Gladstone Avenue Kilburn SA 5084 Woodville Gardens School Ridley Grove Woodville Gardens SA 5012 Ingle Farm Community Class Family Zone Hub 2 Belalie Road Ingle Farm SA 5098 Cooinda Neighbourhood Centre 245 Sturt Road Sturt SA 5043 Austral-Asia Chinese Church 294/300 Morphett Street Adelaide SA 5000 Thebarton Senior College 40 Ashley Street Torrensville SA 5031 Phone: 8159 3100

Now I am very happy because I can communicate with other people in English. The whole learning English experience has taught me this: don’t give up without trying and always listen to others advice.

Champa Baidya, Class 301 at the TAFE SA Adelaide City Campus

Off campus locations:

RTO Code: 41026 | CRICOS Code: 00092B | HEP Code: PRV14002

English is Australia’s national language. People in Australia speak many languages but speaking and understanding English will help you to fully participate in Australian life. To help you learn English, you may be able to attend the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at TAFE SA.

For further information visit www.tafesa.edu.au/AMEP

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. In South Australia, the AMEP is delivered by TAFE SA English Language Services.

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Community News | Adelaide

International Yoga Day celebration in Adelaide by Hindu Council of Australia

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Community News | Brisbane

Giving the Gift of Life By: Joseph F. Kolapudi

M

ost people, especially within the South Asian community, are quite actively engaged within wider society, including in local events and activities that have a greater impact on the lives of those in need. However, when it comes to blood donations and other charitable causes, it is difficult to get Indians on board. This is still due to the widespread stigma and social reclusion when it comes to assisting others of our own free will. But that is all about to change.

Simply Human Incorporated, run by Prerna Pahwa, is currently in the midst of busily planning for the annual Bone Marrow Drive this upcoming July the 20th. The event is specifically engaging with young people and middle-aged South Asians between the ages of 18-44, encouraging Indians to become registered donors in the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry (ABMDR). Due to the current cause of bone marrow donations, this year’s event is focusing on two particular South Asians to help support their cause.

Sujith and Sharon are two South Asians who are in dire need of a transplant, and this event, in support of their cause, will go a long way in helping them in their fight against leukemia. The Red Cross Australia is working closely with Simply Human Inc. This year as well. They coming together again to help support this special event, which will be held at the St. Philip’s Anglican Church in Brisbane’s CBD, from 9am-4pm onwards.

Prerna has set a target of at least 40 new registered blood donors this year to be added to the Bone Marrow Donor Registry, and is looking forward to seeing a large turnout from the South Asian community, as they get behind this great cause.

Having run this donor drive successfully for the last three years’ running, this year’s Download Our App

success is predicated on the dedication of both sponsors and donors alike, both of which make up the team of Superheroes without Capes.

The encouraging fact that people such as Prerna are aiding the fight against leukemia is quite notable, and especially the fact that her and other young South Asians are able to help raise awareness and advocate for the ‘forgotten heroes’ of the wider community.

Previously, Prerna helped raised over $80,000 for a cancer survivor, and has been recognised for her efforts in the recent Australia Day Awards, and also previously by the India Australia Business and Community Awards (IABCA) as a Youth Ambassador in last year’s awards ceremony in Brisbane.

disease. Giving the gift of life has never been as easy as showing up and signing up to pledge to this cause. Go on and be a superhero without a cape, and help out those in need this July by joining Prerna and others in this worthwhile endeavour.

Getting behind this great cause is a great way to show your support for survivors of cancer, and also for those like Sujith and Sharon who need your help in fighting this JULY I 2019

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Fashion

BE YOUR OWN STYLIST

RECREATE NEW YOU Nail extensions The nails are the beautiful part of hands.

Every women love to accessorize their hands and take care of nails. The beautiful nails show the personality status and wealth of a

By: Abbey Singh

Jeans makeover Lash lifting

lady. Nail extension is a way to get the attractive length and design in nails to look extra glamorous.

Cut the hems of old jeans to transform them from run-of-the-mill to the right on trend frayed denim you see all over Instagram.

Contact lenses A drastic hair colour change can be damaging and a new wardrobe is expensive. The best way to give yourself an instant makeover is by enhancing your eyes with coloured lenses

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Stilettos A lash lift is essentially a perm for your eyelashes. It creates a long lasting curl that lifts your eyelashes and makes your eyes look bigger and more opened! (Give you more fresh and young look) It completely negates any need for a traditional eyelash curler, and can curl even the most stubborn lashes. And it lasts about 6-8 weeks.

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Heels not only make you look taller (which in itself is considered attractive), they also make your calves look slimmer, because they engage those muscles. When you wear heels, your posture naturally changes, rotating your hips to tuck in your bottom and helping to keep your back and shoulders straight. That makes you look extra confident and hot.

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SAFAL FEST 2019

A

ustralian South Asian Forum Incorporated (ASAF) will hold its 3rd Annual South Asian Film, Arts and Literature Festival (SAFAL Fest) on the 3rd, 4th, 10th and 11th August with City of Ryde, Commonwealth Department of Communication & Arts, and Multicultural NSW being the Main Festival Partners.

Over the past 2 years the response for SAFAL has been overwhelming and it has become an event that the South Asian community heartily looks forward to.

directed by Anuruddha Jayasinghe the movie tells the story of Sri Lanka’s •S talinist icon Rohana Wijeweera’s life, his comrades and political life until his death.

Here is the itinerary for the four-day festival

SAFAL Fest is an annual spectacular celebrating the rich and diverse arts and culture of the South Asian Region comprising of the nations of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

• The Frozen Fire, 3rd August, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM • Event Cinemas Macquarie, Waterloo Road, North Ryde, NSW 2113 • Sri Lankan Sinhala biographical thriller film

• Aaron, 11th August, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM • Event Cinemas Macquarie, Waterloo Road, North Ryde, NSW 2113 • This movie tells the story of Babu, a fifteenyear-old boy from a small village in Konkan (Maharashtra) whose quest to meet his mother with the help of his uncle reveals many dimensions of human nature, feelings, and emotions.

• The Movie Screenings will be ticketed events.

MOVIE SCREENINGS

SAFAL FEST •S un., 4 August 2019, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm AEST •B rush Farm, 19 Lawson Street, Eastwood, NSW 2122 • The purpose of this event is to increase public awareness of South Asian culture through Fine Arts, Literature, and Performance Arts. This event will also provide greater exposure to individual artists and will consist of exhibits and performances presented by a diverse mix of self-taught or trained arts professionals.

• Activities include Fine Arts Exhibition, Literature Panel Discussions, Music Work Shop, Creative Writing, and Talent Hunt •C ompetition for Singing and Dancing.

• Entry is free for Audience GALA AWARDS NIGHT •S at., 10 August 2019, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm AEST •R yde Civic Centre, Central, 1 Devlin Street, Ryde, NSW 2112 • I t’s going to be a night to remember with live music and dance performances by artists from Sydney’s South Asian communities, Award presentations, a DJ dance party, and a sumptuous 3 course buffet with wine. Mix and mingle with our International Film Guests, Ministers and Councilors. It’s an event not to be missed!

• The Gala Awards night is a ticketed event.

For more information visit www.safalfest.com Kevin Pagaddinnimath, Festival Director, +61 452401956 Ash Gholkar, Festival Chairperson, +61 425 377 572 asaf.australia@gmail.com Download Our App

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Ayurveda

“Eating crappy food isn’t a rewardit’s a punishment.” ― Drew Carey to be overweight or obese. The prevalence of obesity is similar for both men and women (about 36 percent).

I

Dr Naveen Shukla

Dr Vishal Sharma

heard many people during my clinical practice like I am so fat. My life has changed since I gained weight. I am stressed because I am not losing weight or my relationship is in trouble because of weight gain and so on...

Weight gain is one of the major health concerns around the globe and I believe it should be. Whenever you see a doctor or any health specialist they might ask you to reduce weight if you are overweight. In the modern world, Obesity is not a serious health concern for you but one among greatest challenges to health practitioners as well. If not acted on time, it can lead to permanent Physical, Mental & Emotional health issues.

Look at the statics: “In 2011-12, 62.8% of Australians aged 18 years and over were overweight or obese, comprised of 35.3% overweight and 27.5% obese.”

WHO (World Health Organisation) states that More than one-third (35.7 percent) of adults are considered to be obese. More than 1 in 20 (6.3 percent) have extreme obesity. Almost 3 in 4 men (74 percent) are considered

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Life Style disorders are always the burning issues in humans since ancient time. Being an Ayurvedic Practitioner (Indian Ancient Medicine named AYURVEDA), We focus on the root of the problem and treat holistically with Herbs, Diet modifications, and Detox Panchakarma Therapies.

In simple words, Obesity is considered from the human Sedentary lifestyle and Nutritional values/Diet, where the body found hard to metabolize the ingested nutrition. Obesity is over accumulation of the fat under the skin and certain organs. It is very easy to diagnose as the bulge of fat can be seen clearly on the body. To know exact you can refer BMI (Body mass index) formula as weight is not always marked with obesity.

THE English formula to calculate BMI is

BMI <18.5 Between 18.5 and 24.9 Between 25.0 and 29.9 Between 30.0 and 39.9 Above 40

Diagnosis Under weight Normal weight Overweight Obese Morbidly obese

The disturbed weak metabolism is beautifully explained in Ayurveda under the concept of low fire (Agni) of digestion. The poor metabolic functions convert food into undigested toxic substance named AMA.

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Ama is the product of weak and inefficient metabolism that blocks the channels of circulation. The clogging in circulatory channels leads to over 70% of health concerns like Obesity, Diabetes, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Fatty Liver, Stress, Fatigue, Myalgia, Arthritis, Low back ache, Allergies, Indigestion, Malabsorption, Low Immunity, Low Iron, Cancer etc.

Ayurveda always stresses on the cleansing/ detoxification/ Panchakarma of the body on a seasonal basis to flush the Ama (metabolic residue) out of the body and boost the metabolic functions to achieve optimal health.

Have a look here: The healthy Agni is the key to health and weak Agni is the root of diseases.

Basic rules to reduce weight and prevent disease 1) The first treatment to treat obesity is “Don’t accept your obesity.” If you tried and failed that doesn’t mean you cannot succeed. Develop a positive and determined attitude and help yourself.

2) Be active and start with physical workout like play any sport, cycling, swimming, running etc. if fit to do so. Don’t be lazy to go to playground.

3) Avoid all Junk fried food, chips, frozen-cold-soft drinks, Alcohol, dairy products, tinned- canned food, ready to eat food, animal proteins, high sugar

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Ayurveda

Kapalabhati Pranayama and Surya Namaskara (Sun Salutes).

10) H ave food in portions and avoid food which your body generally starves.

Taking frequent healthy food, small bites and chew longer is another formula to control the appetite.

11) Read positive books, articles to stay motivated or see experts for more guidelines.

and high salt intake.

4) Use plant based food as Plant proteins are easy to digest. Proteins should be taken on moderate amount not more than 14 to 16 percent of daily food intake.

5) Eat balanced food rather than starving yourself. Ask experts for Diet Schedule as per your routine and body type.

In general, avoid Carbs, starchy fatty food and eat more grains, salads and cooked food.

6) Add spices like Cumin, coriander, curry leaves, liquorice, turmeric, mint, black pepper, cinnamon, garlic, ginger

etc. in your diet. They are very helpful to boost up the metabolism.

7) Improve your water intake and try to have warm liquids in sips instead of drinking cold water and icy drinks from fridge.

8) Try to spend less time with Mobiles, Laptops at night. Early to bed, early to rise is the key to lose weight.

9) Introduce Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation in your schedule as they improve your willpower, positivity and reduce stress. They also very effective in weight loss. You can start with Anuloma- viloma (Breathing Exercises),

Management of Obesity at Nature Care Ayurveda:We always recommended people to see Ayurvedic experts to get the tailored plan.

Ayurvedic herbs helps to manage obesity like Triphala, Kanchannar Guggulu, Medohara choorna, Kutki, Punarnavadi Guggulu, Triphal Guggulu, Kumari, Garcenia etc. after recommendation.

Recommended Therapies like Udavartna (Exfoliating Dry Scrub), Khizi (Herbal Pouch dry Massage), Panchakarma (Purification therapy x 3,5,7,15 days), Rukha Sweda in a tailored plan are very benefical to get youself back from obesity.

Nature Care Ayurveda Yoga Detox & Rejuvenation is the only Sydney based Ayurvedic centre where you can experience a complete range of Ayurvedic therapies like Panchakarma, Shirodhara, Detox, Abhyanga Body massage, Back Care, Diabetes, Obesity, Arthritis, Mental Health, Infertility, Chronic Disease management, consultation from experts. The team is highly professional and working under the direction of Dr Naveen Shukla (Vice President Australasian association of Ayurveda for NSW), Dr Vishal Sharma (Member International Academy of Ayurved) & Dr Nikhila Venugopal (Female Health and Marma Specialist).

Nature Care Ayurveda & Desi Australia in synergy focused to spread the word of Ayurveda in the community and promote wellbeing as â&#x20AC;&#x153;WE CARE FOR YOUâ&#x20AC;?

For more information /to see a doctor/ for specific health concern visit our website www.naturecareayurveda.com.au or call us on 02 9572 6990

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21

Health

Osteoarthritis a Big threat to the Society Brief Background according to the Modern Science movement. Osteoarthritis of knee joint contributes to nearly 80% of total osteoarthritis burden and it majorly affects the quality of life.

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By: Daljeet Bakshi

uring meeting with Dr. Sunil Kumar & Mr. Jaspal Sharma, Directors of eVeda Ayurveda and Pharmaceutical, raising cases of Osteoarthritis, its factors and possible management was discussed.

Dr. Sunil described about it in detail. Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative disorder, which commonly affects the knee joint. It is caused by damage to the joint’s cartilage. Cartilage is lines the inner parts of thejoint and cushions the ends of bones during different movements. Damage of the cartilage causes bones to rub against each other, causing pain and loss of movement.

Osteoarthritis can range from very mild to very severe, and most commonly affects middle-aged and older people. It affects hands and weightbearing joints such as knees,hips, feet and the back. Knee osteoarthritis is the most common form of osteoarthritis.

AYURVEDIC ASPECT : The condition similar to Osteoarthritis has been described as ‘Sandhigatavata’ in Ayurveda, in which the vitiated Vata afflicts the joints and causes destruction of the cartilages and reduction in the Synovial Fluid inside the joint capsule, leading to swelling which results into painful Download Our App

CAUSATIVE FACTORS : 1. Consumption of dry, cold or stale food, 2. Exposure to severe cold, and dry weather and 3. Irregular sleeping habits, & Suppression of natural urges 4. Degeneration of the cartilages due to ageing, 5. Excessive strain on the joint, or any kind of injury to the joint, are the frequent causes of arthritis.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT :Ayurvedic treatment of Osteoarthritis prevents further deterioration in the joints and rejuvenates damaged cartilages. Vata-alleviating treatments through specific herbs are suggested for lubrication and strengthening of joints. As lubrication is the main thing which needs to be prepared once again, so Ayurveda always advocates the massage of medicated oils to be done regularly. Along with massage done over effected joints one should not forget to lubricate the most important point of the body and that is Navel Button.

Have you ever thought about this part of the body. I think the answer is No. The great miracle of Nature is the Creation of Human, Don’t you think? It is the science that reveals the most secret of Nature. Navel Button is the smallest organ of our body which has a connection with millions of veins. If you keep it lubricated you will see a miraculous changes in your body.

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Following are the main benefits of lubricating the Navel Button.

1. Knee pain and Joint pains.

2. Dark Circles 3. Cracked Lips 4. Dandruff 5. White Hairs Diet for the Osteoarthritis patients.

As this disease is due to the vitiated Vata so you should always avoid the diet which doesn’t affect Vata.

Patients should include Grapes, Papaya, Guava and Pineapple, Garlic, Ginger, Broccoli, Walnuts, Berries, Spinach etc to their daily diet. Those who are Non Vegetarians can take Fatty Fish such as salmon,sardines and trout are high in Omega 3 fatty acids.

Apart from Diet and Medicine Exercise and Meditation play a Major role in recovery.

So if you really wish to recover from this disease don’t forget these four tips.

1. Medicine along with Massage of effected Joints and Navel Button.

2. Exercise 3. Meditation 4. Diet

(Ref : Dr. Sunil Kumar ( B.A.M.S), Mr. J aspal Sharma Directors , Eveda Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical, Patiala India www.DesiAustralia.com

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Yoga

Photo Credit: YouGo Yoga with Rajni

YouGo with Rajni Yoga for a Mindful You

By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

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elcome to Part 2 of this new series of yoga asanas with an approach to achieve a mindful lifestyle to help you on your journey of physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

In our previous edition we looked at Tadasana (Mountain pose) and how to apply it off the mat in our daily routine. In this edition, we explore Vriksasana or Tree Pose.

Part 2: Vrksasana - Tree Pose Vrksasana comes from the Sanskrit words Vrksa (meaning Tree) and Asana (meaning Pose). The Tree pose is a standing pose that helps improve our sense of balance and coordination, both physically and mentally.

Steps: 1. Come to stand firmly in Tadasana.

2. Fix your gaze on one unmoving point in front of you.

3. Shift your weight onto your left leg, gently exhaling, bend the right leg (use your hand to guide your foot) placing it on the inside of the left thigh. Ideally, the heel should be touching the perineum, or depending on comfort level, rest your foot above or below the right knee (never on Download Our App

the knee).

4. Inhale and extend your arms overhead, reaching your fingertips to the sky and join the palms overhead in namaste.

5. In this position continue deep breathing pulling in the tummy muscles and expanding the spine upwards with every exhalation.

6. Stay in this position for up to a minute (depending on your comfort level).

7. Exhaling gently, bring the arms down and then the right foot down to rest in tadasana.

8. Take a few deep breaths then repeat for the same amount of time with the other foot.

Tips/Variations You may try the following variations: 1. Stretch your arms straight up toward the ceiling, parallel to each other, palms facing, or touch the palms together forming an inverted V with the arms.

2. If you find difficulty in resting your foot on your thigh, rest your foot alongside your calf muscle or the ankle of your standing leg, instead. You may even rest the toes of your raised foot on the floor for additional support in balancing.

3. Try practicing the pose with your back against a wall for extra support. *persons experiencing insomnia, low blood pressure, headache avoid this asana. If experiencing high blood pressure, try this asana without raising arms overhead.

Benefits: Regular practice of the Tree pose improves sense of balance, relieves sciatica and reJULY I 2019

duces flat feet. It also helps improve posture, strengthen thighs, calves, ankles, and spine.

The Tree pose also works wonders at a mental and emotional level by developing a greater sense of stability, concentration, body and mind coordination and grace.

Mindful practice of the pose: The Tree pose is about connecting with the Earth as you root down and at the same time standing tall as you face lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges with grace and ease. As you stand in the pose, visualise a tree and draw confidence in knowing that similar to a tree, you are strongly rooted. Just as a tree sways in the gentle breeze, allow the gentle sway of your body to help you find a gentle rhythm even in these moments of trying to find balance.

Draw within yourself the qualities of quiet steadiness, patience and calm symbolic of a tree.

Off the mat: As it is commonly said, the stronger the roots, the taller the tree. When facing a challenging situation, visualising a tree and/or yourself standing in the tree pose can greatly help in bringing a feeling of confidence and ability to navigate a difficult situation with increased focus, patience and poise.

There YouGo! Vrksasana (Tree pose) helps us to feel rooted and tall wherever we may be. May we face lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges with the grace and poise of a tree.

Yours yogically, Rajni Follow Rajni on Facebook @YogaWithRajni www.DesiAustralia.com

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Community News | Canberra

Celebration of the 5th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2019 by High Commission of India (Australia) The 5th international Day of Yoga was celebrated by the High Commission of India (HCI) with much enthusiasm and vigour in Canberra and also the cities of Gold Coast and Darwin.

Here are snippets of some of the yoga events.

By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Kids Yoga by High Commission of India, Canberra: The IDY 2019 celebrations began on 1 June with a special interactive kid’s yoga session on the scenic grounds of the Chancery that saw children from 3-15 years of age engage collectively in yoga asanas under the guidance of Yoga and Mindfulness consultant Ms Rajni Ghai Malhotra.

Lecture series by the High Commission of India: HCI organised a lecture series at the Chancery. The speakers were Mr Alan Goode (Yoga Mandir) on Yoga: Past and Future, Swami Sunisthananda (Vedanta Australia) on Embracing yoga in everyday life and Ms Panna Patel (Canberra Brahma Kumaris) on the Importance of meditation on physical health and well-being.

Lectures and Panel Discussion: GOPIO Canberra, High Commission of India and ANU South Asian Research Institute (SARI) came together on 18 June to host an evening of lectures and panel discussion on ‘Yoga and Self management’. Speakers at the event were Katie Welsh and Mike Rosalky from Balanced Yoga, Rajni Ghai Malhotra from YouGo Yoga and Zoe Hewett from Bikram Yoga Kingston.

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Community News | Canberra

Yoga by the lake

Yoga practice and guided meditation session at Albert Hall Yoga by the HCI: Over 250 people gathered at the Albert Hall on 22 June for a special yoga practice and guided meditation session led by Ms Shikha Sachar (Alumnus MDNIY) session, hosted by the High Commission of India.

Photo Credit: HCI and Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Yoga session at ANU: The Indian students Association (InSA) and HCI joined hands to organise a yoga event at the Australian National University on 23 June. Led

by Ms Rajni Ghai Malhotra, the session involved tips on asanas of particular interest to the student community and practice of asanas ending with guided meditation and shavasana.

Yoga event at the Gold Coast : For the first time a special yoga event was hosted in the Gold Coast by HCI Canberra in association with Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) and GOPIO Gold Coast.

Yoga event at Darwin: Nightcliff Foreshore, Casurina Drive, Darwin was host to over 500 people who attended the IDY 2019 event organised for the 5th year by Australian School of Meditation and Yoga, Darwin Yoga and Meditation and Yoga King with support of the HCI Canberra for the first time.

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Community News | Canberra

Mr Deepak-Raj Gupta to be member of ACT Parliament

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well-known personality of Canberra, Mr Deepak-Raj Gupta is known for his tireless contribution to promoting cultural harmony and multiculturism in the capital.

Mr Deepak-Raj Gupta has provided dynamic leadership in various business and cultural areas in the local Indian community including Chair Canberra India Council, President Australia India Business Council – ACT Chapter. Over the years he has lent his time and leadership to launch and evolve landmark multicultural events such as the World Curry Festival and India in the City (National Multicultural Festival). He was the recipient of the ACT Government Multicultural Advocate of the Year in 2012 and India Australia Business and Community Award for Community Service Excellence in 2015.

It is a matter of great pride for the Indian community in Canberra that Mr Gupta is now a member of the ACT Parliament, joining the right faction of the Labor Party. He was selected on countback after the sudden decision of senior Labor minister Ms Meegan Fitzharris MLA to withdraw from the assembly.

The offer could not have been more timely.

Having lost his father last year and his mother earlier this year, it has been a time of reflection Download Our App

and revaluation for Mr Gupta who resigned from his role in the public service, in search of a different path, just a few days before receiving this call that would lead him into the Assembly.

community to understand the potential they hold as a community in the Australian society, to get involved in politics and have their voice heard in the parliament.

Talking about his parents he said, “They would have been so proud of this achievement.

However, I feel in some way it is their blessings that has made this happen and I know they are watching over me”.

Talking about his electorate, Mr Gupta has a few definite ideas in mind. He believes Gungahlin to have a lot of potential. He wants to make Gungahlin more vibrant, a more secure, safe and welcoming place and hopes to make a big difference as an MLA. In his own words he will always stand ‘for a stronger, better Gungahlin’.

His journey in Australia spans 30 years starting as an international student in Melbourne and then moving to Canberra 18 years ago where he has been residing with his wife Shuchi, daughter Mallika and son Ashvin and dogs Sky and Tank. He is mindful of the support he receives from his family, friends and the community at large.

On his style of politics he says, “For me it’s important to listen to the people, put a smile on their faces and contribute in a positive way.”

Mr Gupta encourages people of the Indian Australian JULY I 2019

Mr Deepak-Raj is looking forward to his maiden speech at the Assembly towards the end of the month and remarks with a smile, “It would be a pleasure to have friends and people of Canberra attend, show their support and help me make my contribution to Canberra the best I can.”

Deepak can be contacted at your convenience in the following ways: Facebook: Deepak-Raj Gupta Twitter: Deepak-Raj Gupta

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Community News | Canberra

Integrated Cultures ACT celebrates 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi

By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

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ntegrated Cultures ACT (ICACT), with the support of the ACT Government, the High Commission of India, Canberra (HCI), Integrated Women’s Network, Radio program Gender Equity Matters (GEM) and Radio Harmony, celebrated the 150th birth anniversary of the eminent political and spiritual leader of India’s independence movement, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as “Gandhi” with essay and drawing competitions.

The prize giving event, held on 16 June 2019, was very well attended by students, parents and community members and ACT MLAs Alistair Coe, Leader of Opposition and Suzanne Orr representing the ACT Government. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr sent a congratulatory message to all the competition participants and winners.

ACT Minister for Multicultural Affairs Chris Steel sent an email commemorating the great leader and congratulating all the participants and also acknowledging Integrated Cultures ACT and Integrated Women’s Network for their efforts to celebrate Gandhi’s life.

Mrs Jayanti Gupta, President ICACT, who was also MC for the event welcomed everyone and invited the MLAs to share a few words and give away the prizes.

Category Years 10 to 12: Ananya Ravi, Preetish Thirumalai and Ananya Giri Category Years 7 to 9: Tilak Kakkad, Anshu Patel and Arvindh Siva Ganesa Velan Drawing Competition The drawing competition was open to students from Year 1 to Year 6. The theme was, “Gandhi”.

Students could draw a portrait of Gandhi or of any significant moment from his life. The winners were as follows:

Category Years 1 to Year 3: Dheekshaa Jayavarthan and Sanju Siva Ganesa Velan.

Category Years 4 to 6: Rishhi Elango, Ria Sambandam, Pranav Krishnan Swaminathan and Anya Malhotra.

There were generous contribution of gifts to winners and participants from the High Commission of India, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, ACT Deputy Speaker Vicki Dunne and Integrated Cultures ACT members. Mrs Gupta thanked the winners, participants, guests, volunteers as well as the judges - Murugesan, Neelima, Panna and Reshma Dev. Mrs Gupta aptly recalled that it was also the 150th birth anniversary year of Kasturba Gandhi, wife of Mahatma Gandhi, who was born on 11 April 1869.

Photo Credit: Rajni Ghai Malhotra and Aruna Amruth

Essay Competition The essay competition was open to students

from Year 7 to Year 12. They were given a choice of eight topics relating to Mahatma Gandhi and his life. The winners were as follows:

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Community News | Canberra

Farewell Dinner for

Ms Gai Brodtmann By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

M

s Gai Brodtmann, former MP for Canberra and Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence retired from politics at the end of her term in May 2019. Ms Brodtmann had been member of the Australian parliament since 2010 and worked relentlessly during this period to represent the Canberra community.

A Farewell Dinner was organised by Mr Sandipan Mitra and Mr Kofi Osei Bonsu, bringing together the Indian and African communities to honour Ms Gai Brodtmann for her dedication and commitment to supporting the Canberra community.

Guests at the farewell included Australian politicians and community leaders from the Subcontinent and African states including MLA Bec Cody, MLA Hon Alistair Coe ACT Leader of Opposition, Mr PS Karthigeyan Deputy High Commissioner of India, Mr Senarath Dissanayake Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, Mr Mark Kasenge representing HE Prof Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda High Commisioner of Uganda, HE Isaiah Kabira High Commissioner of Kenya and Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps.

thousands of people in the ACT saying she belonged to the type of politicians who give power than those who take power.

Ms Gai Brodtmann thanked everyone present and raised a toast to our wonderful city, the Nation’s capital – Canberra.

Photo Credit: Rajni Ghai Malhotra and Kofi Osei Bonsu

Mr Alistair Coe acknowledged Ms Gai Brodtmann’s service to Canberra and her tremendous contribution in empowering

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Community News | Canberra

Women’s Networking Evening hosted by IWiN

nitiatives for Women in Need Inc. (IWiN), a community organisation working for women empowerment, presented its first women’s network event on Wednesday 26th June at the Yowani Country Club, Canberra. This initiative was an outcome of two workshops conducted by IWiN to develop a collective impact action plan (CIAP) for improving economic wellbeing of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) women in the ACT. The evening focussed on a discussion of the hot topic – How to avoid Burnout and Be Efficient. Burnout is a common condition nowadays, affecting multiple women across the board.

Invited to share their ideas were five effective speakers from different walks of life - Elizabeth Kikkert MLA (Shadow Minister for Families, Youth and Community Services, and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs), Ruth Huchinson (Business Owner, Forever Impressions), Tendayi Ganga (CEO, Born to Shine), Ingrid Mahony (Vice President, Vinnies St Nicks Young Download Our App

mally over refreshments.

Talking about Burnout, Dr Madhumita Iyengar, Chair IWiN said, “It is an unavoidable condition of modern life that affects women, more than men. It is because as women, we are too focused on being everything for everyone, and in the process, we commit to too many tasks at the cost of our own physical and emotional health. We are constantly trying to be the perfect woman, wife, mother, and friend coupled with working and volunteering. However, I believe that a network of like-minded women can help us, the always busy women, to take a breather and get some much-needed help with unfinished tasks. IWiN’s goal is to create that network support system for all women in a safe environment.”

Photo Credit: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

I

By: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

Carers Program) and Madhumita Janagaraja (Disabilities Officer for the ANU Student Association).

The speakers and the large group of attendees came from different multicultural communities, businesses, academics and government agencies in ACT. The speakers shared their own experiences with burnout and how they were managing it. While these speakers suggested various ways to address the burn out conditions faced in everyday life, the top three tips advised were – asking for help; learning to say NO; and taking a break.

The event presented an opportunity for all members of the audience to introduce themselves in between speakers’ presentations. The night ended with an an interactive Q&A session after which participants mingled with each other infor-

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Cover Story

Photo Credit: Jarrad Seng

Priya Serrao

Miss Universe Australia 2019

Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Desi Wonder: A big win for diversity down under!

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Cover Story

By: Harmohan Singh Walia

15th Miss Universe Australia pageant was held on 27 June 2019 at Sofitel Hotel, Melbourne, Victoria. Hundreds of thousands of Australians watched on TV as the speechless Ms Serrao was crowned Miss Universe Australia 2019 by Francesca Hung of New South Wales at the end of the event. The competition’s runner-up was Bella Kasimba, an Australian-Ugandan saxophonist.

26 years old Ms Serrao will represent Australia in the Miss Universe 2019 competition in yet another host country to be determined this year.

Photo Credit: Jarrad Seng

She’s thinking of putting her $20,000 winner’s cheque towards a masters degree in public policy, and hasn’t ruled out a future career in politics.

Ms Serrao was born in Hyderabad, India, then lived in Middle East until she moved to Australia, when she was 11 years old. If her mother’s Australian visa was not approved in a timely manner, Ms Serrao may well have been a Canadian citizen and may have been crowned Miss Universe Canada instead.

Ms Serrao beat 27 other finalists from around Australia to take the title in front of a packed crowd at the Sofitel Hotel. The gruelling journey to be crowned Miss Universe Australia began in February 2019 with an Instagram post from last year’s winner Francesca Hung urging women to give the pageant a try.

“When I got through the first stage I thought, ‘Do I really want to spend my resources, my very limited resources, doing this?’” she said. “But in the end I decided the benefits outweigh the cons.

The platform and the opportunities you get, I will never have an opportunity like this again so I just decided to have a go.” She told Sydney Morning Herald.

Two weeks of strategically timed annual leave from the government, has been filled with interviews, hair and beauty workshops, round after round of culls and a week-long photo shoot in Bali with other national finalists.

On competition night, Ms Serrao and the other

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Cover Story

finalists, some of who she now counts among her best friends, strutted the stage in swimwear and evening gowns. When only a handful of contestants remained, they faced the questions.

The clincher was her response to the question of who she believed was a positive role model for young girls.

“I answered Greta Thunberg,” Ms Serrao said.

“She’s 16, she’s a woman, she has Asperger’s [syndrome] – and these things didn’t stop her from starting a global, student-led movement for climate change action.”

Ms Serrao said she will use her new-found platform to support small local organisations that promote diversity and inclusion in schools.

One of the main reasons she entered Miss Universe Australia was because the title holder has an opportunity to advocate on issues to a large, global audience. She is an avid supporter of diversity in our society whether it be in media, politics or business. She sincerely believe a diverse cohort of decision-makers creates a more equitable society, and she would love to use the platform to work more tangibly with local organisations that raise awareness about inclusion, identity and privilege.

In an interview to gcmag, she said, “One of the greatest experiences for me in participating in the competition has been the opportunity to explore and share my identity and my values.

As an Indian-Australian, who has also lived in the Middle East, I am proud to live in such an incredible melting pot of diverse cultures, and my experiences allow me to bring a different perspective and speak to many Australians who share multicultural identities”.

Photo Credit: Jarrad Seng

She works full-time as a Policy Adviser for the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions with the Victorian government. She has an Arts and a Law degree under her belt, and will be admitted to the Supreme Court as a lawyer later this year.

She loves hiking and playing team sports like

Basketball in her spare time or getting stuck into a good mystery novel.

“Another aspect is that, unlike the majority of the other participants, I don’t have previous modelling experience and am new to having a presence on social media! So it has been an exciting journey for me and I honestly believe it’s been a benefit, as I can’t help but approach all the opportunities with a new and different perspective”.

According to Ms Serrao, she was so sure she wouldn’t take out the top spot she didn’t even invite her family to the final ceremony. “I thought it’d be sad (that) they’d see me not make it, and they’d miss out,” she told The Herald Sun. But, against all odds, the stunning Victorian took the crown from 28 other finalists from around the nation in an event hosted by comedian Ash Williams and former Miss Universe Australia Olivia Wells.

The outcome of this pageant is testimony to the extent to which multiculturalism is valued in Australia. A contestant of Indian heritage, representing this wonderful country in a global platform truly showcases Australia as a land of opportunity where courage and hard work are recognised and rewarded.

In a true Australian fashion the pageant represented, promoted and celebrated the multicultural spirit of the country as contestants that participated came from the various communities that now call Australia home.

Previously, Nina Davuluri from America and Priyanka Yoshikawa from Japan represented their countries in the coveted global pageant in 2013 and 2016 respectively, but none went on to win the international title outside their home countries.

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Photo Credit: Jarrad Seng

Cover Story

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Finance

New India shifting gears to become a 5 trillion-dollar economy

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ach year, a day before the presentation of the full-fledged annual Union Budget, India’s Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) releases the Economic Survey for the country. The Economic Survey 2019 prepared by new CEA Mr K Subramanian and tabled in the parliament by the finance minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman - presented a blueprint to reach Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of a 5 trillion-dollar economy.

The Economic Survey is a very important document because it provides an authoritative, detailed and official annual summary of the current state of play in the Indian economy, which also triggers new policy ideas and fresh debates.

The major message of India’s economic survey this year, is to break the traditional shackles, focus on shifting gears in terms of reforms and investments, and creating a fresh path to achieve targets set by the government.

The survey’s focus on accelerated growth and the need for shifting gears, has an analogy of a vehicle on right path, that needs to increase its speed to reach its destination (in this case a thriving and fledgling economy). The Survey’s cover page aptly covers the theme of this journey with a set of wheels indicating national priorities like growth, exports and job creation, that asks for skilled driving. It captures the inter-linkages between these macroeconomic variables with several inter-linked gears like investments, reforms and outcome-oriented policies. Going beyond the balancing model, the survey has pointed out the challenges the Indian economy is facing and has made suggestions for a strategic vision that could confront the issues with an iron hand.

The economic survey categorically states that India would not be able to shrug off the current slowdown unless the country receives a boost in investments. The focus should not be on maintaining “equilibrium” but on aggressive investments in employment-heavy sectors. It mentions how Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can help in creating more jobs and become internationally competitive and suggests Download Our App

that the ongoing liquidity crisis in the MSME sector should be checked with sound policies that could boost MSMEs growth, which in turn will play a crucial role in boosting India’s economic growth. The survey also puts significant focus on labour reforms and the export industry and how to enhance India’s share of global exports.

The Survey suggests that the global market is extremely competitive and countries and businesses, which are able to produce at the lowest cost, will have the ability to gain greater market share in exports.

The survey asserts disrupting the balance and seeking a new approach where behavioural economics, complex theory system and economic history will work in unison. It highlights that every aspect is dependent on another to generate profit and, therefore, cannot be meaningfully viewed in silos nor be analysed without accounting for dynamic effects over time. It focuses on technology and the need for data collection and using this information in the ease of living for citizens and for evidence-based policymaking. It also directs for fiscal devolution and federalism, using insights from behavioural economics to create an aspirational agenda for social change.

Analysis The Economic Survey makes a compelling case, that for India to grow; it must step up private investments in a huge way, recognising the positive correlation between private investment and growth that drives exports and creates more employment. However, the biggest challenge to private investment is bad loans in the banking system, which is being addressed by the government as a matter of urgency.

It is important to think here more deeply about the reasons why the private sector was not investing. Is it because they don’t want to, or JULY I 2019

because they can’t? Should the government take over and invest more on public infrastructure because that could really trigger the private sector?

The private sector collectively has the resources to do a lot of things. Why are they not doing it?

My experience of over 25 years operating in the business environment tells me, that it is important that Indian Government must create an environment in which the private sector can thrive, by limiting corruption and developing transparent regulatory frameworks. Given the long-term nature of infrastructure development and the massive amounts of money involved, investors need confidence in the markets they operate in.

Second, emerging economies like India should support public-private partnerships (PPPs), in which businesses and governments work together on major infrastructure projects. PPPs allow states to benefit from the expertise of the private sector while letting officials focus on policy, planning and administration. Also, the Indian Government must create an investor friendly environment for international financial institutions and foreign investors to support infrastructure development.

Political stability should push the spirits of the economy, driven by innovative financing, prudent contemporary policies and consistent implementation that will see the Indian GDP picking up on higher private investment and robust domestic consumption over the next 5 years.

Dipen Rughani CEO Newland Global Group dipen@newlandglobal.com @DipenRughani www.DesiAustralia.com

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Technology

Improving Business with Technology

Productivity

T

By: Sarang Vengurlekar

echnology has important effects on business operations. It does not matter the size of your business, technology has both tangible and intangible benefits that will help you make money and produce the results your customers demand. Technological infrastructure affects the culture, efficiency and relationships of a business. It also affects the security of confidential information and trade advantages.

Security

Most businesses of the modern era are subject to security threats and vandalism.

Technology can be used to protect financial data, confidential executive decisions and other proprietary information that leads to competitive advantages. Simply put, technology helps businesses keep their ideas away from their competition. By having computers with passwords, a business can ensure none of its forthcoming projects will be copied by the competition.

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When it comes to productivity it is very important to value your time. This can be achieved by using a Time tracking software which is an excellent tool for mapping out where time is spent, by whom. Such analysis when properly utilized is great for accountability, process improvement, and productivity.

There are many softwareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that can be used towards project management and task management tools to stay on top of your daily business responsibilities. One such popular software is cloud based and is known as www.monday.com One tedious task is to manage your physical paperwork therefore is a also very important to create a digital filing system to make it easier to sort, save, share and find documents.

We are all bound by hundreds of emails on a daily basis therefore it is very important to develop an efficient email management process that makes it easier to stay on top of the flow of messages.

Financials Technology also helps a business understand its cash flow needs and preserve JULY I 2019

precious resources such as time and physical space. Warehouse inventory technologies let business owners understand how best to manage the storage costs of holding a product. With proper technology in place, executives can save time and money by holding meetings over the Internet instead of at corporate headquarters.

Financials are a great way to see how the business is progressing and this can only be done via a software that is capable of online invoicing to reduce the costs of collecting payment from customers. It is also wise to use online budget tracking to keep on top of and reduce your expenses.

Cloud solutions have made everything possible and there are many ways your business can utilise these by performing tasks such as filing your taxes more efficiently online, creating a new income stream by selling your products online, using a comprehensive accounting software to streamline your business finances, sharing your digital files with your bookkeeper or accountant to improve your ongoing bookkeeping processes and most of all explore open source applications to replace some of www.DesiAustralia.com

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Technology

the more costly “name brand” alternatives.

Marketing

time. To motivate your staff, expand your knowledge and empower your team with online business training. As mentioned earlier always use technology to share files and data with the cloud although you may want to set up an Intranet for local file sharing, also communicate quickly and clearly with your team through team messaging. This is all possible now a days if you are the new Microsoft Office 365 Subscription based email hosting.

Customer Service

Use of technology to market your business is one of the most crucial steps you will have to take. It will either make or break your business. Always use software to create a marketing plan that you can edit, update and share with your team, use social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, YouTube, etc. to promote your business, products, and services. It is also a good idea to start a blog related to your business and target audience to keep them updated with latest trends within your professional domain. If you have your website professionally maintained then get your web designer to design a page that can collect email addresses through an opt-in form and start utilizing the power of email marketing.

On the website it is also great to use video marketing to promote your business.

Learning and Collaboration

Customer Service is very important for any business as without customers the business is not easy to sustain itself for long.

First and foremost, technology affects a firm’s ability to communicate with customers. In today’s busy business environment, it is necessary for employees to interact with clients quickly and clearly. Websites allow customers to find answers to their questions after hours. Fast shipment options allow businesses to move products over a large geographic area. When customers use technology to interact with a business, the business benefits because better communication creates a stronger public image.

In this case use social media to conduct customer service, set up an online help desk

or ticket system to handle customer issues, allow clients to schedule appointments online at their convenience and lastly use online surveys and questionnaires to get customer feedback which is very important towards expanding your business by knowing the valuable feedback.

Mobile Working and Telecommuting We do want to contribute towards the environment and this can be done by allowing your employees to work from home as it contributes by having less traffic and pollution on the road and directly saving our environment from harsh air pollutants.

A VPN software can help create a mobile office that allows you to work productively from anywhere as this will allow remote desktop application to access files on your office computer. Saving paper is one of the best ways to save trees therefore go paperless to save money on supplies and storage in your office.

We no longer need physical phone lines since the introduction to VOIP which allows the business to subscribe to a virtual phone number and electronic fax line that you can take anywhere. It is also wise to use your smartphone and select apps that sync with the cloud to stay connected when you’re on the go.

To know more about technology in business you can send an email to sarang@ vengurlekar.com and we can help you with suggestions that will increase your productivity and set you on the right path.

Collaboration is the way to go with any business therefore it is a good idea to conduct teleconference calls to make sure team members in different locations are on the same page. There are many technologies available to have this solution available.

One of the most prominent one is known as Skype for Business.

If you have a great website it is then possible to have live webinars or web conferences which are great for keeping everyone in the loop with travel-free face-to-face Download Our App

JULY I 2019

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37

Legal

Everything you need to know about the Demerit Points System in NSW

fessional drivers.

T

By: Mittu Gopalan

he Demerit Points System is a national program that allocates penalty points for a range of driving offences. The scheme is designed to encourage safe and responsible driving by imposing financial penalties on drivers who drive outside the law.

How demerit points work?

The demerit point scheme is administered by the New South Wales Roads and Maritime Services.

It allocates penalties which are known as demerit points. If you accumulate a specified number of demerit points within the 3-year period, your license will be automatically suspended.

If you have an unrestricted licence, you are allowed up to 13 points within a 3-year period. This increases to 14 points for proDownload Our App

Each time one commits a driving offence, you would receive a notification in the mail along with the penalty notice. Points will be added to your license, and if it reaches the maximum number of points, you will receive a notice of suspension which will specify how long your drivers’ licence will be suspended.

Although demerit points are no longer counted after 3 years, they remain on your driving record permanently.

What are the demerit point limits?

The limits are: • Unrestricted licence: 13 points • Professional drivers: 14 points • P2 licence: 7 points • Learner licence: 4 points What are the suspension periods?

For unrestricted licence holders, the period of suspension depends on the number of points you accumulate: • 13 to 15 points: 3 months suspension • 16 to 19 points: 4 months suspension • 20 or more points: 5 months suspension For both learner, P1 and P2 licence holders, the suspension period is 3 months.

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What are the double demerit periods?

Double demerit points apply for speeding, failure to wear a seatbelt, motorcycle helmet and use of mobile phones during all holiday periods such as long weekends, Christmas, New Year and Easter.

How do you find out your demerit points balance?

You can check your demerit points balance online on the NSW Roads & Maritime Services website. Click here.

What happens if you do not pay your penalty notice fine?

If you fail to pay your penalty notice fine by the due date, you will be issued with an enforcement order. You will also face the penalty of additional demerit points for a failure to pay the fine.

Your driver licence can also be suspended under the Fines Act 1996 if you do not pay your outstanding penalty notice.

Please do not hesitate to contact Freedman & Gopalan Solicitors on (02) 8917 8700 or by email to reception@freedmangopalan.com.au to discuss your legal avenues! www.DesiAustralia.com

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39

Travel

Japan…

The Land Beyond Cherry Blossoms

“We are going to Japan for Easter!” he said.

“I’m packing my bags now,” said I.

P

acking was at bay as my excitement levels had touched the moon. Imagining myself eating sleeping Ramen, Udon, Tempura and feasting my eyes on one of the world’s biggest spring festivals; all this with my partner was going to be one adventure!

Be it cruising on the Shinkasen (bullet train), be it being one of the most technologically sound countries in Asia, be it high rises and acres of green in the same neighbourhood, Japan is here to impress.

Entry into the Samurai land was full of cyclones and delays due to our Hong Kong

Train to Mt Fuji

By: Niyati Doshi

It is rightly said that people make a country great. That’s exactly what we absorbed on our 8 night voyage across the epic corners of Japan. Worry not about language

barriers when the promising Japanese tribe will go out of their way to drop you to your destination; with a smile!

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Arashiyama

Dotonbori

Travel

transit though the exit pleaded for delays.

Just 1 more night, just 1 more moment in Japan would bring sunshine into our lives!

Our first night in Tokyo was in an old, beautiful suburb Asakusa that is home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Sensoji. A colourful delight, this open orange expanse is welcoming, and is next to Asakusa train station and a 200 meter shopping street. We went there at night and walked like happy tourists!

A temporary goodbye to Tokyo to meet Kyoto was day two’s agenda.

Tejas* is made of good taste. Not only because he chose me but also because of his accommodation choice in Kyoto! Wow! Right in the middle of the hustle bustle, next to mega towers and a quaint river flowing, Glansit Kyoto Kawaramachi was home.

The best part? It was Capsule accommodation! We stayed in a single capsule with each unit having AC, TV along with spotlessly clean-shared bathrooms. I was surprised to find an olive oil based make up remover! They gave us nightwear and slippers for 3 days straight!

Our friendly taxi driver recommended visiting Nannaji temple to admire the cherry blossoms. We had arrived at the decline of the festival and were prepared to Download Our App

see mere traces. Nannaji temple changed traces to tunnels of cherry blossom! Pink flowers were spread across acres of the complex. Nature’s elegant painting left us awestruck.

Alluring Arashiyama has to be on your bucket list! Straight out of a movie, we lived our fairytale amidst green mountains, bamboo forests, cute ice-creams, boating with birds; slightly on the outskirts of Kyoto. Romantic weather beckoned us with rows of bamboo at a zero admission fee! Fancy a temple visit? Arashiyama’s got you covered!

A visit to Kyoto is incomplete without immersing yourself in Osaka.

See it and breathe it to believe it. An economic powerhouse, the second largest hub after Tokyo, promising sky lines and ecstatic architecture along with its shrines is Osaka’s USP. Without further adieu, pack your bags or encash all you can to spend it in Dotonbori, the most popular street of Osaka.

“Omg. Is it even real?” I kept murmuring in Dotonbori. From flashy 3d signs to a giant Ferris Wheel overlooking a canal, to skyscrapers with popular brands to unlimited shopping and eating options, this one street is magical. You can also see yourself on one of the big screens there! It is the liveliest street we witnessed in Japan.

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Believe me; it was worth having herds of people bumping into us while we barely sustained our eyes on the camera.

Meet Japan’s highest mountain and active volcano, Mt. Fuji. I’d recommend spending at least 3 nights here. We stayed close to Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes. Lucky becomes an understatement when you have Mt Fuji as your room view before fog takes charge the next day!

Bicycling to the lake and the lake was serendipity. We climbed ice and wind caves, captivated all the blossoming flowers whilst getting drenched in the Fuji Shibazakura Festival which boasted over 8,000,000 varieties of Shiba sakura, soaked in an onsen (hot spring) and savoured paradise like views for 2 nights in chilly Mt Fuji.

“You will never be completely at home again because part of your heart will always be elsewhere.” said Miriam Adeney.

Rightly so, we are virtually in Japan and definitely visiting again. And again. And again!

My taste buds still crave the Japanese ramen.

What do you call a series of surreal moments? We call it Japan!

Tejas* - Niyati’s partner.

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41

Thats Life

Time

Is time on our side?

By: Margaret Goodwin

Does time really exist or is it an idea in our minds?

Is it our perception of what is happening in our lives that causes us anxiety when we think about time? Do we simply make judgements about what is important to us, what is less important?

What is important?

If something is going to happen in an area of life, which we consider important to us, we tend to use this as a gauge against which to measure the rest of what is happening. We build our world around what is happening or may happen.

To what extent do we allow our perception of events to influence the way we think our lives are unfolding?

Recently I spent time with a friend who had been learning about meditation, making good progress in keeping her general mood optimistic and happy.

However, on this occasion she seemed agitated and unsettled.

In a flood of words and emotions she told me her story, how she had planned to work over the weekend on an assignment for her current study. What did she end up doing instead? She had spread out in front of her all of the paperwork for the assignment.

Then she had spent the rest of the day, wallowing in waste thoughts.

Why am I alone?

I need someone to care for me.

I want someone to look after me.

I can’t do this anymore.

I’m tired of having to work and try so hard.

My friend had an early, unsuccessful marriage and has been without a partner for over Download Our App

25 years. It seemed strange that she had suddenly experienced feelings of desperation about finding a partner.

As she told me more, I could see that the desperation stemmed from her feeling that time was running out for her. Aged in her late forties, she now wanted to marry and have children. She wanted the things that she hadn’t wanted before.

Because of her age, she was feeling this strong drive now.

She next told me that she had registered on an online dating agency, stipulating that she was interested only in finding a husband. She had met her first respondent and was not at all happy about what transpired during that meeting.

It seemed that he told her lie after lie. He would say he was interested in marriage and then he would say he was not really looking for marriage. This happened several times: he would say one thing and then later say the opposite. And so it went on. I allowed my friend to talk it out, as I listened.

I was having my own waste thoughts, imagining the worst possibilities of meeting someone from an online dating agency, and was relieved when she said she would not meet him again.

It may be a mid-life crisis or some other crisis that drives people to think about things of the past, when it already seems too late. Why does she want something that she didn’t want before?

She had been living a happy life until she looked at others, started to listen to relatives’ complaints, thought of what might have been and doubted her own ability to succeed in the career of her choice. Doubts about ourselves and what others want from us can pull us down and take away our happiness. She was quite content before the doubts came, before she looked at others and began imagining their perfect lives.

I didn’t want to say too much but I did say that the grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence. When you climb over the fence, the JULY I 2019

grass just doesn’t look as green as it did from the other side.

She laughed at that idea. Maybe it made her think.

If we are happy, are we missing anything? Of course not!

Keep your happiness! Do not let this go!

Marry, if that’s what you really want to do.

Have children! But find a balance in your life.

There is an old expression: Do not delay an auspicious task, meaning that, if something is of benefit, act now. Do not delay!

She delayed for many reasons perhaps.

However, she obviously delayed because she was busy acting on her choices, which were the things she really preferred to do then. She went against relatives’ complaints, remained single, studied, worked, travelled and enjoyed it all.

So did she miss anything? No. And if she wants to marry, she can also do that.

(I hope she takes her time and chooses someone who is good and caring.)

(Margaret Goodwin is a practitioner and teacher of Raja Yoga Meditation. She can be contacted on blacktown@au.brahmakumaris.org) The Brahma Kumaris in Australia The Brahma Kumaris have had a presence in Australia since 1975.

There are centres and class locations in the major cities, as well as three Centres for Spiritual Learning, where courses, classes and retreats are held.

The Brahma Kumaris Australia is a registered charity in the area of education (spiritual).

All programs are offered free of charge as a service to the community.

The ongoing operations are funded through donations from students and the public in the spirit of maintaining its educational services for the benefit of all in the community.

Meditation online: http://learnmeditationonline.org, www.brahmakumaris.org.au, www.facebook.com/BKAustralia www.DesiAustralia.com

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43

Recipe

Mouth-watering meatless Chile con ‘carne’ So getting kids to eat vegetables can be challenging

By: Dr Sne

O

ften times parents can struggle with long meal times watching their little one pushing a piece of broccoli round the plate, or trying to bargain with them over a mouthful of peas So what’s the big deal?

Well vegetables contain a complex combination of multiple vitamins and minerals that provide essential nourishment to growing bodies and minds.

From fibre to carbohydrate, calcium, antioxidants and a bevy of vitamins, vegetables are really tiny packages of goodness. The best way to eat them is in combination with lots of others, preferably of differing colours, not over cooked but digestible enough for our small ones and cooked in a way that’s appealing for the eyes and the tummy.

The Australian Dietary Guidelines say that children aged: 4 1-2 years should have 2-3 serves of vegetables each day 4 2-3 years should have 2½ serves of vegetables each day 4 4-8 years should have 4½ serves of vegetables each day.

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So with this in mind, this multi veggie dish ticks all the boxes and is cleverly disguised with tonnes of flavour.

It can be served simply with steamed brown rice, atop a baked sweet potato with a dollop of natural yoghurt, or in a crispy taco with shredded iceberg lettuce and grated cheese.

Ingredients 41 medium brown onion peeled and diced finely 42 cloves garlic peeled 44-5 medium ripe tomatoes 4200g carrot peeled and grated 4200g cauliflower florets grated 4200g zucchini diced small 4300g eggplant diced small 41 medium Romano red pepper diced finely 4300g sweet potato peeled and diced small 42 teaspoons ground smoked paprika 41 teaspoon ground cumin 41 teaspoon dried oregano 41/2 teaspoon mustard powder 41 tin red kidney beans drained and rinsed The method 4 Blend the tomatoes and garlic together in a blender or smoothie maker until you have a smooth liquid

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4 In a broad but deep frying pan heat a tablespoon of olive oil and then add the onions 4 Stir fry these for a few minutes until slightly transparent 4 Then add the sweet potato and cook this until it starts to take a little colour but the pieces are still firm 4 Add the cauliflower and carrot and stir until starting to soften on the heat 4 Follow this with the eggplant and Romano pepper, again waiting for these to slightly soften before finally adding the zucchini 4 Combine the vegetables well and then add the spices, and the kidney beans.

4 Ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices before adding the tomato garlic purée.

4 Mix this well and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, stirring the mixture occasionally so as it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan 4 You may need to add a little water if the mixture seems too thick 4 Allow the liquid to reduce slightly as the vegetables cook, removing from the heat when the mixture is thick and glossy.

4Add salt to taste if desired 4 Serve with steamed brown rice or as described earlier.

Enjoy

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45

Mag Corner

Saigon Museum Face of Vietnam War

problems, effected on the basis of respect for the principles of independence, unity and territorial integrity, shall permit the Vietnamese people to enjoy the fundamental freedoms, guaranteed by democratic institutions established as a result of free general elections by secret ballot.

By: Harmohan Singh Walia

T

he US declaration of Independence adopted on 4 July 1976 is as follows:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

The final declaration of the 1954 Geneva Conference on Indochina (Excerpts): “The Conference declares that, so far as Vietnam is concerned, the settlement of political

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In order to ensure that sufficient progress in the restoration of peace has been made and that all the necessary conditions obtained for free expression of the national will, general elections shall be held in July 1956, under the supervision of an international commission composed of representatives of the Member States of the International Supervisory Commission, referred to in the Agreement on the cessation of hostilities. Consultations will be held on this subject between the competent representative authorities of the two zones from 20 July 1955 onwards.”

Curtis Lemay, Commander of the Strategic Air Command, US Air Force Chief of staff said in his statement on 25 November, 1965 as, “My solution to the problem would be to tell them (the

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North Vietnamese) frankly that they’ve got to draw in their horns…., or we’re going to bomb them back into the Stone Age.” 3 million Vietnamese were killed (among them 2 million civilians). 2 million people injured and 300,000 people missing during the Vietnam war.

Many women took part in the Anti-US National Salvation Front. It was a battle all groups of citizens, politicians, scholars, teachers, workers, farmers, students participated in.

4.8 million Vietnamese people were exposed to Agent Orange and over 3 million of them were its victims. The results of studies conducted in Vietnam and the world have shown that Agent Orange/Dioxin can cause complex and diverse damages to all parts of a human body and diverse damages to the skin, liver, thyroid and diabetes; cause damages to the system of respiration, circulation, digestion, endocrine and nerves; play an important role as a genetic and chromosome mutating factor which causes birth defects and reproductive complications. Com-

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46

Mag Corner

mon diseases in children and grandchildren of Agent Orange victims include complete or partial paralysis, blindness, dumbness, deafness, mental retardation, mental illness, cancer, deformities and birth defects. According to incomplete statistics, in the whole nation, they currently have: 4 More than 150,000 victims of the 2nd generation; 435,000 victims of the 3rd generation; 42,000 victims of the 4th generation As per Le Figaro statement on 25 April 1965, “Vietnam has become an experimental place for all inventions from US military engineers. Their purpose was to use living targets to test their inventions for later use in other battle fields.” But the world supported Vietnam in its resistance to US aggression 1954 - 1975.

US weapons and war equipments provided to Saigon puppet government (1954 - 1975) were as follows: 4Tanks, armoured vehicles - 2,074 4 Aircraft of all types - 1,800 (including 600 helicopters) 4Artillery weapons - 1,532 4Mechanised vehicles - 56,000 4Infantry weapons - 1,900,000 4Communication equipments - 120,000 The following is an excerpt from a declaration signed by one thousand professors and lecturers of American Universities and published in The New York Times on 13 May, 1965: “The situation in Vietnam poses serious moral problems, which are not merely diplomatic or

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tactical. Our nation is possessed of an immense power. To permit its utilisation for unreasonable and barbarous purposes endangers the very foundation of American influence.”

The statement of American Senator, Wayne Morse in United States Senate on 23 September, 1965 is as follows: “In Vietnam, we have totally flouted the rule of law, and we have flouted the United Nations Charter. Ever since our first violations of the Geneva Accords, starting with the imposition of our first puppet regime in South Vietnam, the Diem regime, we have violated one tenet after another of international law and one treaty obligation after another, and the world knows it. For more than ten years, we have written on the pages of history with the indelible ink of US violations of the Geneva Accords of 1954, as well as article after article of the United Nations Charter and even article 1, section 8 of the Constitution of the United States, a sad and shocking chronicle of our repudiation of the rule of law in our foreign policy practices.”

Where as, W. Bedell Smith, Under Secretary of State, Head of the US delegation, in the closing session of the Geneva Conference gave the following statement, which became declaration on 21 July 1954: “The Government of the United States declares with regard to the afore-said Agreements and paragraphs that: It will refrain from threat or use of force to disturb them, in accordance with Article Two, Section Four of the Charter of the

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United Nations dealing with the obligation of Members to refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force.”

The Bertrand Russel Tribunal - Stockholm session, 2-10 May, 1967 and Copenhagen session, 20 November - 1 December 1967 concluded: “The United States bears responsibility for the use of force in Vietnam, and has, therefore, committed against that country a crime of aggression, a crime against peace… In subjecting the civilian populations and civilian targets of the D.R.V.N. to an intense and systematic bombardment, the USA has committed a crime of war. This is on the part of the US armed forces utilisation or testing of weapons prohibited by the laws of war (C.B.U’s napalm, phosphorus bombs, combat gases, toxic chemicals).

The prisoners of war captured by the US armed forces are subjected to treatments prohibited by the laws of war. The US armed forces subject the civilian populations to inhuman treatments prohibited by International law. The US government is guilty of genocide vis-a-vis the Vietnamese people.”

In this article, the information and photographs have been collected from the War Remnants Museum of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Tim Page and Horst Foas - two press photographers, who were injured in action in Vietnam’s battlefield, collected a wide range of photographs of Indochina War in commemoration of all press photographers who died in this war. The exhibition named “Requiem” has a collection of thousands of photographs taken by 133 photographers of the two fronts.

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Mag Corner

Lean In Inc- Connect Grow Achieve Networking Event 2019 Lean In Inc held a Networking Event on the 1st of June 2019 at Parra Villa in Parramatta. The event was well attended by both men and women and provided an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge on various topics as well as build connections. The event was well received by those who attended.

T

he Inspirational speaker for the event was Mittu Gopalan of Freedman and Gopalan Solicitors. Mittuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presentation truly inspired the participants with her journey as a new bride to a successful solicitor, artist and her charitable work. Mittu described the challenges she faced in Australia as a migrant and student and the hurdles she has had to jump and how it has shaped her life to who she is today. She stressed the importance of taking a day at a time to chase your dreams and to surround yourself with good mentors.

Sujatha Madhan,a recruitment specialist from Cox Purtell delivered a very informative presentation on job skills including how to write a resume , interview techniques and the various sites to look for employment. As most of the participants were newly arrived migrants, this was a particularly relevant and informative session.

The event also addressed social issues such as Domestic Violence and Family Law and Mediation.

Superintendent Julie Boon, a Commander of Parram-

atta Police Area discussed the support available to victims of domestic violence while Mrs. Sue Advani, a White Ribbon Advocate, presented on the types of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help and how to support friends who are victims of domestic violence. A presentation by Mittu Gopalan of Freedman and Gopalan Solicitors explained the legal procedures that occur during a separation and divorce and discussed property settlement and custody issues while Deepa Sujeet, a registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, described the process of mediation between family members during a separation and divorce.

Mr. Deep Mitra, Principal at Fiducian Accountants and Director at DNA Chartered Accountants presented on how to set up a business and the requirements prior to starting a business. Irene Hawlader from Stryker described the different modes of communication and the importance of non verbal communication.

Gabrielle Droulers from Dress for Success provided the participants with information about interview dressing and the workshops offered by the organization.

The event ended with a one to one mentoring session provided by various speakers addressing individual questions.

Lean In Inc is a not for profit organisation dedicated to supporting newly arrived migrant women settle into Australia. Lean In Inc has held various workshops since its inception focusing on employability skills, knowledge of Australian culture and building networks and connections. For upcoming workshops and updates, follow Lean In Inc on Facebook.

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EMAIL bijinder.dugal@aashaaustralia.org.au PHONE 0412 786 569 or 1800 424 079

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

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49

Community News | Sydney

Sydney Sanskrit School 2019 Grammar Camp

S

ydney Sanskrit School hosted its third intensive pāṇinīyam four-day grammar camp at Sai Bhavan, Western Sydney. It was incomprehensible that such a blissful Shangri-La, could exist amidst the hustle-bustle of one of the busiest cities in the world, but thanks to the hosts Roshini and Vijayendra, it does.

spoke about the timeless heritage, richness of Sanskrit, as a root of other languages and the importance of learning it in modern world. Arti Banga, Editor-in-chief of Desi Australia commended the volunteers and teachers for fostering a wonderful opportunity for children to study Sanskrit in an exciting environment.

Post breakfast, the students revised Vedas and its divisions, Dashopanishat and 18 puranas followed activities based on the guruashtakam, choosing single, 2 & 3 syllable, gunitaaksharam and samyuktaaksharam words. It was intense, educational and enjoyable. The senior students guided the juniors in studying the maheshwarani sutrani.

Some Characteristics the Gen Z, are that • Their media consumption habits differ from previous generations—even millennials • They prefer cool products over cool experiences • Have a very short attention span.

Established in 2006, the school has over 150 students in four locations. The camp was targeted at 40 senior and advanced students who had completed basic component of learning.

Through, Guruashtakam, the base of learning of all grammar components.

On Sunday afternoon senior students were taken to The Ponds to recite the Australian national anthem in Sanskrit at Navarang (multicultural festival) conducted by the Shri Mandir while the junior students delved deep into an intriguing lesson about the significance of the maheshwarani sutrani.

Would they stand through a grueling four-day camp dedicated to teaching Sanskrit grammar alone? Well, read on….

The students eagerly woke up at 4.30 am on Day 2 and after showers were greeted by the crispy cold morning mist. It was a surreal experience and most went out on a walk to absorb the gift of nature. Deepak Vinod lead the recitation of Maha mantra japa and about the role of guru and utilization of resources to overcome challenges in life.

The camp began acknowledging the traditional owners of the land and paying respects to the elders. Inaugurating the camp, Charisma Kaliyanda, Liverpool Councilor

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Teaching aids were prepared for juniors. A novel session called ‘write what you see activity’ helped enrich their vocabulary by naming and writing what they saw around the naturalistic campsite.

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Community News | Sydney

Dressing up in cultural attire, parents and students joined multi lingual bhajan session, with some children playing on musical instruments.

The learning quest continued with alpaprana, mahaprana and samyukthakshara slokas. Student chanted slokas related to the diverse literacy Sanskrit as the teacher explained to distinguish between stotras, mantra and sloka. They identified three different unique slokas incorporated in the activity with Pandit Narayan Bhat giving an example.

Day 3 stated with Mathruka meditation and Radha Mahamantra raasa. To build up on vocabulary, students learnt the techniques of a padabandha and were set a task to make one puzzle. They were then taught lakaaras (tenses) and how to distinguish between the different tenses according to the conjugation assigned to the words’ formation. A short lunch break later, they continued practicing, using and applying lakaaras into simple and complex sentences. This was followed by an activity based on a dog’s six qualities. The completion of this activity enabled them to familiarize themselves with the shloka format and using and applying adjectives.

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The host Smt.Roshini, organized a treat of roasting corn over the campfire which complimented a wonderful dinner prepared by volunteers.

As everyone slept quite late on the 3rd day, the last day started late with the Ashtaakshari Mantra, Dhyana, and an extremely auspicious yagna/havan called Surya-Agnihotra, viewing of Surya through the mudhra known as ‘Suryamudhra’, to energise the ones mind. Playing on the trampoline, climbing trees and swing energised their spirit as well.

Revising the previous days learning and grammatical tenses known as ‘Lakaaras’ participants completed another ‘Padabandha’ (Puzzle/Crossword).

Sri Subramanian, a community elder, handed over the certificates to the students. The session wrapped up with Vande Maataram.

Dhanyavadaha to all participants, parents, volunteers and hosts for the wonderful experience and look forward to the next camp.

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Community News | Sydney

Yoga posture photo contest

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n behalf of Desi Australia we would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to Mr Harmohan Singh Walia for winning under the “Best Photographer” category in “Yoga posture photo contest” and Amrita Kohli as the winner of “Yoga posture photo contest” organised by the Consulate General of India, Sydney on the occasion of “5th International Day of Yoga”.

Ms. Amrita Kohli posed in the Parvata Asana in front of the Sydney Harbour bridge and Ardha Matsyendrasana pose with the Opera House in the background.

The award winning yoga posture of Amrita Kohli was selected by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India in their video among the global (over 180 countries) participation during the “5th International Day of Yoga” celebration.

Amongst group participation, Amrita Kohli is one of the only single participant selected from Sydney.

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Community News | Sydney

5th International Day of Yoga celebration

Photo Credit: Harmohan Walia

at Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, The Indian Consulate, Sydney

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Community News | Sydney

“When you have more than you need, build a longer table and not a higher fence”

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he beautiful quote is being well practiced by Mrs and Mr Harugunani who extended their table to the ones that needed it the most - the homeless on our streets, through a brilliant initiative that started in 2017 by the name of Astha- Providing hope. A charitable organization that is working effortlessly to not just feed the hungry and needy but to also help elevate them to a place in the society that each one deserves. Every fortnightly Saturday, Team Astha lay out tables near Central Station to feed more than a hundred of our homeless friends, offer free haircuts, warm clothes along with daily essentials and toiletries. There are also efforts to reintegrate some of these less fortunate people into the society by helping them find a job. Astha currently has over 70 dedicated volunteers including school kids, working individuals and homemakers who passionately devote their time and energy to arrange various aspects of the Saturday fortnightly meal service such as preparation, transportation and distribution.

performances by Rhthym Dance Academy, a buffet dinner but also, to donate towards this highly humanitarian cause! Bowman Hall in Blacktown will host this wonderful evening on Friday, the 9th of August, 2019.

The Tickets for the Friday night fundraising event can be directly purchased on

Astha’s website: www.astha.org.au. The website also gives an opportunity to make donations for Astha’s work or to contribute towards sponsorship for the event. For any further information about the event or the charity, one can reach them on astha. sydney@gmail.com

The dreams for Astha are bigger as they want to live up to their Motto of ‘No one sleeps on an empty stomach!’. They are aiming to buy a mobile van which will be equipped with a fridge and a microwave to help them reach the needy regardless of rain, hail or dust! With this Van service, they plan to serve 25,000 meals in a year.

A cultural fundraising event is being planned to seek support from the community to buy the aforementioned Van. The ticket cost for the event is a mere AUD40 and will enable the contributors to not just enjoy the musical performances by the Bollywood band-AKS, dance Download Our App

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Tarot

Tarot July forecast Sanjivani Kalsi

Aries (March 21- April 20)

What's your #Astrology sign? Select your Astro sign and read below.

Taurus

(April 21- March 20)

Gemini

(May 21-Jun 21)

Things are looking up! People will respond to you with happiness, love, and goodwill, more than usually. A promotion and/or new, good job headed your way. If you are already employed you should know that both you and your work are appreciated and valued - and you should see signs of this soon. If you are unemployed or looking for a new job then you need to keep looking for new opportunities.

They are out there all you have to do is find them. An unexpected turn of events.

It’s time to celebrate. It shows that circumstances are favorable.

Opportunities for realizations. This is a time for indulgence and reward, to enjoy other’s company, be carefree, and have simple fun. If you’re looking for a relationship, you’ll soon be in the perfect situation and mood for lighthearted relationships and fun. Maybe an engagement or even a wedding. There might be completion of some project and hence there would be celebration.

It is a beginning of something that you feel strongly about. It reflects the beginning of lessons and training. In situations there is a possibilities and opportunities for new things and new experiences to be explored and enjoyed. The chance to travel.

Some of you may be receiving a new job offer or opportunity. You will need to check the details before agreeing or accepting any new job offers today.

Advice : it may be necessary for you to make clear and firm decisions very quickly!

Advice : within you is the ability to create amazing work if only you follow your passion and let your heart lead you!

Advice : Don’t allow fear and worries to dominate your thinking. Take some quiet time alone to rest, meditate, and contemplate!

Cancer (Jun 22- July 22)

You will soon be tested. All challenges are opportunities for growth. if you are the one tending to jump to conclusions and decisions to hastily then this is the time to slow down and give things more thought and to give people “more chances.” This can be a real time of spiritual awakening. You are reaching a significant point in your journey, learn from your past and move on.

Advice : Don’t hesitate to consult a mentor or get advice from a skilled leader. Thinking clearly!

Libra (September 24- October 23)

All sort of new changes are coming into your life. Ultimate completion.

Relationships of all kinds, finance, health all should be going well. You can rely on your own sources to get what you want. Make

the best of it.

Things are on the upswing. Even if you see no specific or definite Signs of this yet. A new job opportunity, a chance to relocate or to work for a new client or boss who gives you more autonomy.

Leo (Jul 23 - August 23)

Wisdom comes from looking within.

Temper your counsel of others with compassion and affection.Be grateful for what you have and accept the hope that the hardships you are going through are just a phase.

Advice : It is a good thing to be rich and to be strong, but it is a better thing to be loved. Notice recurring ideas, and take action on them!

Scorpio (Octo. 24-Nov. 22)

You are now enjoying a period of happiness and stability. Now is the perfect time to get together with your family and friends to celebrate all the wonderful times that you have had together. You will have peace, harmony and tranquility.

Advice : Make sure your head and heart go hand in hand and make a well thought of decision. Remember you shape your own destiny.

Advice : You’re moving to better days. Be a role model of peace. Look for solution of unpleasant situations.

Capricorn

Aquarius

( December 22 - January 20)

(January 21 - February 18)

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 23)

August 23-September 23 Many ways you pulled through and survived. Things look different in the light.

You may think that you’re done, finished, worthless and weak ....but trust me – it’s not so. Start believing the opposite is true. Soon you will get a second chance. A fresh start. It may be time to change your career. Expect your circumstances to improve. Existing new beginnings are happy ending are just around the corner.

Advice : keep your thoughts positive. Let go of worrisome thoughts. “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”

Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21)

A positive outcomes that will be in your favour. Now is a time for past errors and imbalances to be corrected and restored.

You may be part of a legal case or awaiting final judgement from the courts or a governing body or institution.

Once the decision is made, you must accept it and move on.

Advice : Do good and good will come to you. What goes around comes around.

Pisces (February 19 - March20)

Time for positive changes with a move.

Expect a positive home or job related move which you have been waiting for. This move will being with it all that you have desired for. Some of you may be moving your relationship into smoother waters after a rough patch.

You need to update your resume and start applying for jobs offering you better opportunities than you currently have in your current employment. Desired opportunities and dreams are manifesting. Overcoming obstacles and competitive goals.

Your self-confidence is likely to be increasing and this should help you toward your goals.The work news is good. If you’re waiting on results from an interview, you are likely to find that you got the position. This will be good for you.Have compassion for yourself and others and approach things with kindness and gentleness.

Advice : Take an action step today, no matter how small, towards what you want, and keep your eyes open for the new opportunities coming your way.

Advice : You have been experiencing some challenges. there’s a disagreement on how to proceed... You can still succeed but it will take great effort.

Advice : Be assertive. Trust that your actions will work out fine. Stick to your opinions. Make sure that your communication is as clear as it can be.

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Entertainment

Deepti Naval ’s Poetry – a painting of emotions Deepti Naval, a sensational Bollywood actress of eighties, wears many creative hats. She is a director, poet, painter, and a photographer too. based on her real life experiences. Deepti shared her loved for trekking and how she would not miss any opportunity to go spend time in the mountains.

M

Rekha Rajvanshi

anju Mittal of Sai Creative Arts organized Deepti Naval’s poetic evening on July 12th at Pioneer Theatre, Castle Hill. Draped in beautiful white, gold silk saree naturally gifted with beauty and talent Deepti Naval entered the stage. Kumud Merani, producer of SBS Hindi Radio had an interactive session with Deepti on her film and literary journey. Deepti very humbly and gracefully answered all the questions connecting well with the audience. Her thought-provoking poetry in English and Nazme in Hindustani were captivating and

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Born in Amritsar to a family of teachers, who later moved to New York, Deepti finished her degree in Fine Arts from Hunters College, New York but decided to move back to India to chase her dream of acting in Bollywood films. Deepti said “Even as an eight-year-old, I knew that I wanted to be an actress, though I never had the guts to tell my parents about it. My father wanted me to be a painter. When I told him my wish to be an actor, he said to me, ‘you will only act till the time the lines don’t show on your face but art will always remain with you irrespective of age.’ I said to myself that I will focus on painting only after tasting the world of cinema.”

Then started the film career with Shyam Benegal’s film Junoon in 1978. In the year 1980, Deepti acted in the film Ek Baar

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Entertainment

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Deepti Naval. At the end of the program, Deepti very humbly recited a few more poems on public demand. Emcee for the event Nitin Madan, introduced Deepti and other artists in his unique style.

To conclude, Deepti shared a portrait of emotions through her artistic poetry which was able to create strong personal connections which hit home.

The second half of the program consisted of mesmerizing music segment by DYZR Band Orchestra, who sang popular film songs of

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Photo Credit: Harmohan Walia

Phir, for which she won her first Best Actor award. In 1981, Deepti became popular as Miss Chamko with Chashme Baddoor. She did lead character roles in many films of the eighties e.g. Katha, Chashme Baddoor, Angoor, Saath Saath, Kisi Se Na Kehna, Mirch Masala, Kamla and Rang Birangi, etc. Lately, people saw her in the film ‘Lion.’

Deepti says I like to be a writer more than an actress, because writing lets me express

myself as who I am or what I feel while in acting I am just playing the role of a character. Deepti has two poetry books – LamhaLamha (Hindi, 1981) and Black Wind & Other Poems (English 2004) to her credit.

She also published a short story book The Mad Tibetan and Stories from Then & Now (2011). Her fourth book River & I is under publication.

She is also working on two other writing projects.

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