Vol 6 Issue 2 by G Plus

@guwahatiplus www.guwahatiplus.com

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Volume 06 | Issue 02 Nov 03 - Nov 09, 2018 Price `10

G Plus Guwahati Theatre Festival Season 3 slated for 16th-18th November PG 05

BJP’s vote bank ‘politics’ burns Assam G Plus News

ncidents like the recent killings at Tinsukia and the bomb blast prior to Durga Puja in Guwahati have raised issues about how safe the citizens of this state are. Questions have also been raised about the government’s ability to reduce conflicts in the state. After the bomb blast near Sukreshwar Ghat in Guwahati which injured four, the United Liberation Front of Assam - Independent (ULFA –I) claimed responsibility for the blast and also said that they would, in future, continue the fight against the government. Though the ULFA-I has denied ownership of the Tinsukia killings, a highly placed source in the police said, “It looks like the handiwork of ULFA-I. The presence of the banned outfit has increased in recent days and there are recruitments happening in some parts of Assam.” The Army has launched a massive counter-insurgency operation along the AssamArunachal Pradesh border. The Assam Rifles is keeping vigil on the porous IndoMyanmar border. The Panbazar police have summoned ULFA Peace Talks leader Mrinal Hazarika, who had recently threatened Bengali organisations supporting the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 through some hardcore rhetoric. Not only this, the state, on 23rd October, observed an overwhelming bandh - a total shutdown of the state in response to a call by 60 organisations protesting the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, despite the government’s stern diktat

and rhetorical muscle flexing to foil the same. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 is regarded as Bharatiya Janata Party’s move towards vote bank polarisation. Leader of Opposition, Debabrata Saikia, talking to G Plus said, “It is 100% vote bank politics because of which Assam and the people are suffering.” He expressed that a proposition like the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 is nothing but vote bank politics by the BJP and it is tarnishing the image of Assam projecting it, albeit incorrectly, as a state that is not safe for Bengalis. City-based social activist, Ajoy Dutta, talking to G Plus said, “The Tinsukia killings are not because of Assamese-Bengali conflict but there is some third front which is working against Assam and the Assamese people.” Dutta said that even during the Congress rule people died and it is not only the BJP that is to be blamed. He further said, “It is true that the BJP leadership is weak as they do not know what they want.” He said that if the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 will not affect Assam at all, the BJP government should make it clear to the public. “The chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal, after the Tinsukia killings, said he will not sleep; then why he was sleeping all these days?” Dutta added. Similarly, some Bengali organisations also blamed the government for failing to protect the citizen of the state. Spokesperson of All Assam Bengali Yuva Chatra Federation (AABYCF), Sudip Sharma, talking to G Plus said, “The BJP government has failed to protect the people of the state and are busy wooing the national leadership.” n

City resident uses innovative skills to hatch birds with health benefits PG 08

A decade of 2008 Assam blasts: Victims’ kins still await justice PG 12-13

2 Lead Story

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Killing of 5 near Sadiya threatens communal harmony in Assam, ex-ULFA leader arrested Hiranya Barman

he fact that the recent tiff between the Assamese and Bengali organizations that had been building up in the past few weeks led to the killing of 5 persons at Kherabari village, near Dhola Sadia bridge in Tinsukia on the first day of November, cannot be negated. While initially, United Liberation Front of Assam (Independent) – ULFA (I) - militants were suspected of carrying out the attack, the organization through a written statement released to the media, denied any involvement in the tragic incident. “We The United Liberation Front of Asom(I) would like to make it clear to all concern authorities that our organization does not have any involvement in the firing incident that occurred on November 1 at Sadia Saikhowaghat in Tinsukia District,” a statement from ULFA (I) said. This incident immediately got the attention of everyone as people started connecting the dots. Earlier last week, things got very ugly when former ULFA leader, Mrinal Hazarika, allegedly stated that people supporting the Citizen (Amendment) Bill 2016, might witness a mass killing like situation of the 1980s. Hazarika was speaking at a meeting organized by the Asom Songrami Mancha. This statement by Hazarika had sparked tensions across the Bengali community in Assam. Several Bengali socio-cultural and youth organizations disapproved

of Hazarika’s stand and entered into a verbal duel through a series of controversial replies. Some of the leaders even went to the extent of threatening to harm the Assamese people in the state. “The whole NRC process is a conspiracy to oust the Bengalis from the state. Some leaders are trying to create tensions between the communities. If Hazarika thinks that he can resort to mass

such inflammatory comments that could spark communal disharmony. On 2nd November, just a day after the Tinsukia murders, Mrinal Hazarika was summoned by the Panbazar Police and was later arrested and produced before the court, which sent him to judicial custody of 14 days. Meanwhile, as always, Hojai BJP MLA Shiladitya Dev again

Rahul Chanda rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

Pro talk ULFA leader Mrinal Hazarika arrested | G Plus Photo killing we can also do the same,” All BTC Bengali Youth Students Federation (ABBYSF) had allegedly said. This had sparked outrage among KMSS and AASU and other organizations leading to filing of multiple FIRs against the organization. Several Bengali socio-cultural organizations like Amora Bangala, All Assam Bengali Hindu Organization (AABHO), All BTC Bengali Youth Students Federation (ABBYSF), and the All Cachar Karimganj Hailakandi Students’ Association had demanded immediate stern action against Hazarika for making

didn’t lose the opportunity of snatching his 15 minutes of fame and appealed to the government to arrest Mrinal Hazarika or he would submit his resignation. “I urge the centre and the state government to take appropriate action against them for such communal remarks or I will submit my resignation. Me and a few other MLAs would also resign if the state government does not act against these ULFA leaders,” he said. “Peace talks can only be held through discussions which these so called leaders have breached the line by making such remarks,” he said. n

Rumours on Bengali organisations’ rally was the tipping point rabajan Virodhi Manch (PVM) Convenor, Upamanyu Hazarika, feels that the tensions started when rumours floated about Bengali sociocultural organizations calling for a large convention at Khanapara Veterinary Field in Guwahati to garner support for the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016. “The rumour of a large

ULFA (I) sneaks in exploiting Citizenship Bill issue

convention by the Bengali organizations was the root cause of confrontation between the organizations belonging to two different communities. People’s sentiment will be obviously hurt if a convention is called to garner support for a bill that can be a threat to the identity of the Assamese people. But ultimately it turned out to be false, there is no convention,” Upamanyu Hazarika told G Plus.

“The government is to be blamed for the mental harassment of people of Assam. Even after knowing that no permission was taken for the rally, Dispur however maintained that no such rally would be allowed by the government. It is a conspiracy on the part of the government to create a rift within the populace and shy away from the real issue – illegal immigration,” complained Hazarika. n

fter the bomb blast at Guwahati near Sukreshwar Ghat and the Taliban style killing of five persons in Tinsukia – triggered by the United Liberation Front of Assam - Independent (ULFA-I) even though it has denied its hand in the second instance, it can be surely assumed that the banned militant outfit is sneaking into the state exploiting the topical issue of the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016. A retired IPS officer, talking to G Plus in anonymity said, “Rebel groups like ULFA (I) has always exploited the sentiments of the people of Assam and this is a great opportunity for them.” The officer had retired recently and through his career had worked aggressively in many counter insurgency assignments. According to the officer, the banned rebel group is reported to be recruiting many youths from Assam currently and somehow the youths are also getting misguided by the rebel group. Recently, an All Assam Students Union (AASU) leader had joined the ULFA (I) to fight for Assam’s “freedom.” The student leader

announced his decision and asked the youths of the state to join the “movement.” The youth in question is Pankaj Pratim Dutta who was the vice-president of the Dergaon unit of AASU in Golaghat district. He became untraceable on September 5 only to emerge as an ULFA militant on social media. Similarly, there are many youths joining the rebel group in some districts of Assam. A source in the police said, “The recruitments are happening in districts like Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Golaghat, Sibsagar, Jorhat and the bordering areas of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland. Sources in Assam Rifles said that the Army has launched a massive counter-insurgency operation along the AssamArunachal Pradesh border. The Assam Rifles is keeping vigil on the porous Indo-Myanmar border. The source revealed that the rebel groups are operating from Myanmar, and on occasions, they sneak in to Assam to carry out terror activities and thereafter, return to the jungles in Myanmar. Meanwhile, pro talks ULFA leader Mrinal Hazarika was arrested by Panbazar police on 2nd November for his supposedly provocative and inflammatory comments with regard to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016. n

“Assamese- Bengali bond best in the country”

hough there might be a conflicting situation in the state at present, the bond between Assamese and Bengalis dates back to the pre-independence days and it is the best in the country, expressed some Guwahatians. City-based social activist, Ajoy Dutta said, “In entire India there is no bond between two communities the way it is in Assam between the Assamese and Bengalis who have always lived in Assam with mutual love and respect.” Dutta said that there are many Assamese families in Assam where there are Bengali brides; similarly in many Bengali

families there are Assamese brides. He said the old Bengalis of Assam are not at all concerned about the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 and they are just concerned about their names getting listed in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) like the Assamese. He said that the killing in Tinsukia is a planned strategy by some external forces that are anti-Assamese because “a true Axomia will never kill his brothers.” Similarly, many Guwahatians talking to G Plus said that Assamese and Bengalis have the most endearing bond in the country. n

City

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Dip in Diwali sales of traditional sweets this year Nehal Jain jain.nehal@g-plus.in

ith Diwali around the corner, the city comes to life with Guwahatians rushing to the nearest sweet shops to buy their Diwali goodies every year. From dry sweets to milkbased sweets and of course mouth watering desserts – a walk by Fancy Bazar and the aroma of sweets fill the air. However, with the Diwali spirit already consuming the city and right ahead of the last weekend before the end of festival, Fancy Bazar - the city’s central trade hub - has been witnessing a slump in the sales this year. The sweet shop owners have claimed that they are not making as much profit this year as compared to the previous years. “This year, neither Durga Puja went well for us shopkeepers nor has the Diwali spirit begun to show,” expressed Parmeshwar Sharma, the owner of Sharma Sweets in Fancy Bazaar. The owners of other sweet shops in the area also informed G Plus that the footfall of customers has decreased and the sales have also been hit drastically this year. They’ve claimed that the

availability of a large variety of dry fruits and bakery items in the market has taken away the market share of traditional sweets. Pradeep Pareek, the owner of Bhartiya Jalpan which is one of the oldest sweet shops in the city, told G Plus, “While the market has witnessed a slight hike in the demand for sweets compared to previous months, sales are expected to pick up pace from Dhanteras (November 5) onwards. Presently, sales are only coming mostly from corporate houses and customers who’ve come from outside of the city to fulfil their festive requirements.” In the same vein, Yogesh Sharma, the owner of another famed sweet shop, Rookman Sweets said, “The market has just started picking up pace. With Diwali around the corner, the demand for sweets is increasing by the day. Usually the sale of sweets used to begin well in advance but the trend has changed in the past couple of years.” Though the festival of lights is synonymous with sweets, the fear of spurious ingredients being used in their preparation to meet the festive demand seems to be keeping consumers at bay. If trends are to go by, there is a considerable rise in the demand for dry fruits, assorted cookies and

Snippets Guwahati man booked for choking dog to Death

ssam Police, on November 1, registered a case against a man named Ganga Chetri for allegedly killing a bitch in cold blood in Lankeswar area on Wednesday. Chetri, who was engaged as a maintenance worker at Srishti Residency, located opposite the Assam Forest School, allegedly put the female dog inside a gunny bag and put it under water in a drain till it choked to death. Urmi Mala Das, an animal rights activist, after hearing about the barbaric act via social media, approached the police and subsequently filed an FIR with the Jalukbari Outpost. A team of police assisted her in recovering the dog’s body which was later sent for autopsy. The autopsy report is expected in a day or two. The accused, meanwhile, has been dismissed from his job and police are on the lookout for him. It is suspected that Chetri killed the dog at the instance of

a few residents of the apartment who were not happy about the increasing number of canines in the vicinity, although the allegations could not be confirmed or corroborated.

“I got to know about the gruesome act when an eyewitness shared the details in a social networking site. She (dog) was the mother of five puppies and was staying in the apartment campus for the last many months,” the animal rights activist said, demanding that the culprit be booked at the earliest. Police informed that a case has been registered under Section 428 of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

bakery products this Diwali. In a continuous/ massive drive against adulterated food products, government officials have been carrying out raids in various parts of the city. While milk, sweets and fruits worth lakhs of rupees have been destroyed in the process, cases have also been initiated against certain traders for selling sub-standard products. Food checks have also been conducted at various eateries across the city and improvement notices have been issued to various hotels and sweet shops. Since a large number of customers are becoming health conscious, there has been a change in the pattern of sweet consumption. With traditional sweets having low shelf life, the sale of substitute items has witnessed a surge. It should be noted that the sweet shops that have been able to keep up with the market

File photo of diwali sweets trends are the ones that have not witnessed low sales this year. One such place is Kiranshree Sweets. Vikash Jain, the general manager of Kiranshree Sweets, informed G Plus that they have received a fair share of the footfall this festive season. “We sell a wide variety of sweets, dry fruits and bakery products. During the festive season, we incorporate a lot of fancy items and packaged gift items into our

product line to meet the market demand. So, even when other sweet shops in the city witness a dip, we do not,” he added. Additionally, home bakers and other bakeries have also seen a surge in the sales this Diwali. The demand of customised desserts and packages has increased, compared to previous years and bakeries are seen delivering hundreds of orders every day ahead of the festival. n

4 City

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Prof Ilina Sen delivers 13th Anita Baruah Sarmah Memorial Lecture, 2018 at GU

he Department of English, Gauhati University hosted the 13th Anita Baruah Sarmah Memorial Lecture, delivered by Professor Ilina Sen on 30th October, 2018. Titled “State, Patriarchy and Women in the Citizenship of the Nation State” this year’s Lecture featured Ilina Sen, a prominent women rights activist, writer and educator, the focus of whose career has been on women’s politics and livelihood as well as sustainable indigenous development, and peace. Professor Sheila Bora, another well known academic, historian and women’s rights activist was the chief guest for the event. Professor Sen pointed out that the definition of citizenship that a nation has deemed appropriate for women does not empower them to exercise rights guaranteed to them by the constitution; the nation has come short in its duty to protect this huge vulnerable group. This is made more obvious in the case of citizenship rights of women from minority groups. Professor Sen recounted her encounter with the widowed and single refugee women who migrated from East Pakistan and

were relocated to oppressive PLCs (Permanent Liability Camps) under the Dandakaranya Project (now defunct) in 1964. Sexual violence against women as a tool for domination (Indian Army in Nagaland/Manipur/Kashmir) by the nation is yet another example of how the patriarchal nation still views women as property, as welfare objects and sees every single woman as a liability. Sen paid homage to the women’s rights movements in India and its achievements such as the inclusion of the 498-IPC act against domestic violence. She also gave due credit to the rising sensitivity regarding women’s issues in the nation but added that the way ahead was still long and difficult. Speaking with comparative examples of feminist movements from around the world, she cited the case of YPJ’s women’s militias, the Biranganas of Bangladesh and the radical feminist movement in Pakistan set against the patriarchal Islamic fundamentalist state. Could the nation state be relied upon to perform its duties when the interest of the individual citizen came in conflict with the interest of the state – especially a country as diverse as India? Sen reiterated

13th ABS lecture, GU that the nation was not just land but its people and that the nationstate should accord top priority to the welfare of each of its citizens.

With the rise of communal politics, the exclusionary nature of citizenship in India is made even more apparent as any

attempt at reform and opposition to the state’s narrative is often seen to be labeled as hostile or anti-national. n

Biennial architectural festival to be held in city

iX18, Guwahati’s Biennial Architectural Festival is being held from the 9th to the 11th of November, 2018 at the Assam State Museum, Guwahati, in collaboration with the Directorate of Museums, Government of Assam. This is an initiative of SiX, a group of architects working towards generating public awareness about architecture. The 3-day festival, aimed at facilitating interactions between architects and members of the public, will have over 40 participants from all across India and abroad. Besides architects, participants include designers, artists, academicians and other concerned citizens. A 3-day architectural exhibition will feature works of around 20 architects. LOCATE 6, a series of architectural walks at strategic places in the city, are already being conducted over the last one month as a build-up to the biennial. Participants for the walks, eminent people drawn from different backgrounds, are being introduced by the team to various aspects of the built environment. This has led to interesting dialogues and discourse and will

academicians of national repute. Architect Mela, an architectural consultancy fair will be held on the morning of 11th November. “Wither the Role of the Architect,” a panel

culminate in a panel discussion on the built character of the city on 9th November, the first day of the biennial. The panelists for this discussion will be the participants of the walks. Interactive sessions on sustainability and coexistence will be conducted for school children on 10th November. This will be followed by presentations on

discussion on

various aspects related to architecture by eminent architects and

architectural practice, also to be held on the same day, will see architects and professionals from varied other fields debate the

state and future of professional practice. SiX18 can be regarded as an initiative by a group of professionals to share with society at large, their

understanding of architecture, and together develop an improved consciousness towards the built environment. This is a one-of-itskind festival, with very few or no similar precedents to be found in the whole of India. n

In The News

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

G Plus Guwahati Theatre Festival Season 3 slated for 16th-18th November

Festival Director and Editor of G Plus addressing the media | G Plus Photo G Plus News

uwahati’s premier English weekly, G Plus announced the third season of the Guwahati Theatre Festival which shall be held from 16th November - 18th November 2018, at Pragjyoti ITA, Machkhowa. “The GTF is turning out to be a landmark in the cultural landscape of Guwahati. It is our annual endeavour to bring the best of plays to the city and this edition will hopefully elevate the status of the festival further,” said Festival Advisor and Editor of G Plus, Swapnil Bharali. This is the third season of Guwahati Theatre Festival and just like its last two seasons, this year too, the festival shall witness 4 globally acclaimed plays during the 3 days. The Festival will feature Laughter Therapy on 16th Nov and Detective 9-2-11 on 17th Nov. The concluding day, i.e., 18th Nov will have two plays viz. Foreign Body and Stories in a Song. Laughter Therapy features

Mona Singh who is well known for her iconic role of Jassi (Jasmeet Walia) in the mega TV serial, Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin. Detective 9-2-11 is a gripping, nerve-wracking but thoroughly exhilarating escape drama, directed by Atul Kumar. The play shall feature renowned actors like Neil Bhoopalam and Sukant Goyel among others. Foreign Body is a 100-minute play in English language. It is a beautifully crafted solo show by Imogen Butler-Cole about hope, healing and forgiveness after sexual assault. Stories in a Song tells stories of musical forms such as kajri, thumri, dadra, khayal, remixes and more. Directed by Sunil Shanbag, the play features actors Sukant Goel, Saurabh Nayyar, Namit Das etc. “It gives me immense pleasure to be part of a festival that has set benchmarks in the cultural arena of the city. Theatre as always been an inseparable part of my life and associating with GTF will make this experience memorable and priceless”, said Abhijit Hazarika, Festival Advisor. The third edition shall also witness theatre workshops conducted by Namit

Das and Atul Kumar for schools and college students respectively. The last date for registration is 10th November. The Festival is initiated by G Plus in association with Ballantines. Powered by Assam Tribune and supported by Apollo Hospitals Guwahati, North East Small Finance Bank, XUV 500 from Mahindra & Mahindra, Servo from Indian Oil, and Outreach Advertising. This season, the Guwahati Theatre Festival has joined hands with Round Table India to promote and propagate the festival. Round Table India is a young businessmen and professionals club with the key objective of community

service focusing on building infrastructure for education of underprivileged children. RTI has built 6,189 classrooms in 2,588 schools with a total outlay of Rs.

244.65 cr. For tickets and information, contact 8486002303/ 8486002304. Tickets are also available on www. bookmyshow.com n

6 City Snippets Rahul Dravid becomes fifth Indian to be honoured with ICC Hall of Fame

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Dhanteras, the Diwali kick-starter Dhanteras is about welcoming the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. The term Dhan means wealth in Sanskrit and in many other languages. On this day, the Goddess is worshipped and bhajans and kirtans are organised with proper illumination of homes and business establishments in the evenings. rangoli decoration competition. Flowers also form a large part of the festivities from making garlands and also being used in the rangolis. A variety of sweets are prepared in the homes to be consumed and distributed to friends and relatives. Those who are busy and don’t have the luxury to prepare sweets depend on the sweet shops which do booming business during this time. Special packing for sweets and dry fruits has become fashionable that are mostly traded as gifts packs. Sweet shops in the city come up with innovative ways for packing the sweets for the auspicious occasion. n

ormer India captain Rahul Dravid was officially inducted into the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Hall of Fame ahead of the fifth and final One-day International between India and the West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday, November 1. The BCCI tweeted a video of the small ceremony, where another Indian batting legend, Sunil Gavaskar, was seen handing over the famed cap to Dravid who joined a list of all-time great cricketers across generations. Dravid became only the fifth player from India after Bishan Singh Bedi, Kapil Dev, Gavaskar and Anil Kumble to be named on the elite list. In July this year at a ceremony in Dublin, the ICC announced Rahul Dravid, Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting and retired England woman wicketkeeper-batter Claire Taylor as the new inductees into the ICC Hall of fame for their stupendous achievements in international cricket. “It is a matter of great honour to be named by the ICC in the Cricket Hall of fame,” Dravid was quoted as saying in a July press release of the ICC. Dravid is currently in charge of India U-19 and India A team as the coach. Dravid aggregated 13,288 runs in 164 Tests with 36 centuries and 10,889 runs in 344 ODIs with 12 centuries. In 2004, he was named the ICC Cricketer of the Year as well as the ICC Test Player of the Year.

City university gets ‘University of the Year’ award

he Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) recently awarded the Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU) with the ‘University of the Year’ award. The ADBU received the prestigious award among all the universities in India, which are in existence for one to ten years. Pro Vice-Chancellor, Fr Joseph Nellanatt, received the award at the 14th FICCI Higher Education Summit 2018: A Global Conference & Exhibition, held in Delhi on October 30.

5th November 2018 (Monday) Dhanteras Puja Muhurta > 18:20 to 20:17 Duration > 1 Hour 57 Mins

File photo of people buying jewellery during Dhanteras in the city Chetan Bhattarai

hanteras basically ushers in Diwali, the festival of lights. It is the day people start getting their homes and places of business ready for Diwali. It is like a kick off for Diwali celebrations – the time of the year, when people get ready for savoury sweets, crackers, rangolis, ornamental diyas, latest lightings, teenpattis and much more. Basically, the idea is to get into a festive mood. This year, Dhanteras is on 5th November, Monday. Falling on the thirteenth day of Kartik (Hindu calendar month), the festival is observed almost throughout India these days. Initially, a North Indian festival, Dhanteras has now spread across India even as the country turns more and more cosmopolitan. “Dhanteras is also known as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanwantari in many parts of India. It ushers in Diwali and is considered the most important day for businessmen, as they offer special prayers to the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. It is slowly getting into the Assamese culture thanks to our kids going out for education, jobs and of course, marriages outside Assam,” says Vinod Sharma, who runs a utensils store in Ganeshguri. On being asked how the sales

are during Dhanteras, Sharma had this to say, “It was not very popular in the past. But there is a new trend, with Assamese people opening up for cultural and religious assimilations from other states, mostly influenced by their children. We do a good business during Dhanteras. Navaratri and Ganesh Chaturthi are other good examples which are changing the way we look at festivals. A lot of Assamese people, mostly in the cities and towns, observe Dhanteras and buy utensils, gold, silver and other stuff.” It is believed to be the auspicious time to buy ornaments and other goods for the household. The largest sale of jewellery and kitchen utensils happens on this day than any other normal day. Jewellery shops are thronged throughout the day by women shoppers hoping to get the best bargains. And the shops, too, relent to the demands of the buyers by offering sales and discounts and exchange offers. One can be surprised at the footfall that popular jewellery shops witness. “Yes, Dhanteras is indeed a day we look forward to, but this year we fear that the sales won’t be what we generally expect on this day. This is due to the rise in gold prices during the recent days. With Diwali and the wedding season round the corner people do buy during Dhanteras as it

is auspicious but then again the volume may not be high. Let’s hope for the best and people in India are sentimental about weddings and auspicious days. It’s a big factor,” smiles Gopal Sen, who runs a silver and gold jewellery store in the city. Everyone may not be interested in buying gold or silver jewellery, so as a symbolic gesture, they throng the markets to buy metal utensils. These days, it is more about buying appliances, fancier the better. Moreover, the shops try to lure customers with various discounts and exchange offers. The banks, too, chip in with their special cash-back offers and discounts on selected cards. “Actually, it’s is a buying and a selling spree. With the advent of the online market, this festival has gone one step-ahead and I believe delivery boys are doing overtime these days. There is no rest for anyone who is in the business of delivering the goodies for the festive season. The discounts are very good and sometimes it is a steal,” says Revati Kumari, who is a binge online shopper. Festivals can’t be complete without the cleaning of house, decorating it with flowers and lightings and rangolis at the entrances. One can see ladies downloading images from the internet to get the most unique rangolis for their homes. Some housing societies also organise

Pradosh Kaal > 17:42 to 20:17 Vrishabha Kaal > 18:20 to 20:18

For your information: Last year, during this time gold was hovering at little over Rs 30,000 per 10 gram. This year it has already touched a six-year high of Rs. 32,625. Trivia: The Indian ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy, announced its decision to observe Dhanteras, as the “National Ayurveda Day” which was first observed on 28 October, 2016.

In The News

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Pulin Das Birth Centenary Year celebrations commence

he year-long Birth Centenary Celebrations of sports legend Pulin Das commenced on an illuminating note at the Jayanta Baruah-Lakhimi Baruah Hall within the premises of Asam Sahitya Sabha. Several eminent personalities and admirers of Late Pulin Das attended the Memorial Meeting that was organised for the occasion. The guests of honour included Premadhar Sarma, noted sports journalist and sports organiser, Prof. Udayaditya Bharali, noted sports writer and intellectual, Padum Rajkhowa, general secretary of Asam Sahitya Sabha, Larsing Ming Sawyan, eminent sports organiser and President, Lajong Club, Shillong, Balendra M. Chakraborty, noted sports organiser and Subodh Malla Barua, noted sports journalist among others. The meeting was chaired by Nayan Prasad, President of the celebration committee and he also delivered the welcome address. The meeting began with a

floral tribute at the portrait of Late Pulin Das and the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Larsing Ming Sawyan, who was invited as the guest speaker, delivered a power point presentation on the topic “Northeast as a Sports Hub” where he made an elaborate and analytical observation of the current and future sporting potential of the entire northeastern region. The other speakers were Premadhar Sarma, Padum Rajkhowa and Prof. Udayaditya Bharali, all of whom spoke about their memories and personal experiences of working with Late Pulin Das. Late Das was recalled for his iconic contributions towards the development of sports in the region with his various roles as a sportsman, commentator, sports organizer, sports journalist and infrastructure and tournament developer. The vote of thanks was delivered by Kalyan Kumar Das, general secretary of the Celebration Committee and eldest son of Late Pulin Das. n

Other celebrations

n a separate celebration of the occasion, grandson of Late Pulin Das, Shyamango Pratim Kashyap, a director of Trig Empowering Institute, visited the Senehi Old Age Home with the institute’s staff and provided the inmates with ration for one month, a one-time meal and some wholesome company for the day much to their delight. n

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Guest Speaker Larsing Ming Sawya being felicitated

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8 City

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

City resident uses innovative skills to hatch birds with health benefits steadily. He is also responsible for making relatively unknown birds popular in and around Guwahati. For instance, he first brought quail - a small variety of bird found across Europe and Asia - to Guwahati from Odisha.

Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

hat started five years ago as an experiment has now turned a Guwahati resident into a successful poultry farmer who is breeding a range of uncommon birds. Today he is involved in poultry farming of birds like emu, quail, Rhode Island Red chicken (RIR) among others. Sijubari resident Jahangir Khan had earlier owned a pet shop; this is how he ventured into this field. The idea of poultry farming clicked with Jahangir when he bought five Emu birds from Andhra Pradesh. He sold off two in his pet shop while three remained unsold. “When the emus gave eggs, I thought that I should not waste them. I wanted to try and hatch the eggs and started thinking of ways to make it possible,” Jahangir informed G Plus. He then researched and came to know that he would have to procure machinery required to hatch the eggs. However, purchasing machinery was not a feasible option as it would cost

He is also responsible for making relatively unknown birds popular in and around Guwahati. For instance, he first brought quail - a small variety of bird found across Europe and Asia to Guwahati from Odisha.

Indigenously developed hatching machine at the poultry farm | G Plus Photo around Rs 4-5 lakhs. Determined to carry out an experiment and try his luck, Jahangir started building a machine which would aid him in hatching the eggs.

“It was impossible for me to invest so much money at that time. So I researched on the internet and built a machine using the heater available in aquariums. It has a thermostat which controls the

Stress on health benefits of meat

ahangir’s vision was to promote and rear those birds which are clean sources of protein and which also have some health benefits. He gradually got together with other interested farmers to make poultry farming popular among even the small-scale farmers of Guwahati. “When we started, we decided that whatever poultry we would rear for meat purpose, should have some health benefits,” said Jahangir. Apart from quail and emu, he also rears Rhode Island Red chicken. This variety of chicken is originally found in USA but it has now become indigenous too. Further, Jahangir said that they also breed turkey but do not promote it as much since its meat is not very healthy and is full of fats. However, the black fowl, which is commonly known as Kadaknath, is the most unique bird he owns and rears. Kadaknath is indigenously cultivated in Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Chennai. Its skin is black in colour while the egg has a deep brown colour. It is more expensive than the local broiler chicken and is

known for many health benefits too. “Kadaknath has a variety of health benefits; it is beneficial for anaemic patients. Also, any child who lacks nutrition can be given Kadaknath’s eggs,” explained Jahangir. Explaining the advantages of

consuming Emu, he added that Emu’s meat is 98% cholesterol free. Even though it is red meat which is otherwise harmful, it has several good qualities. Quail, RIR and Kadaknath are pure forms of protein unlike broiler, he further added. Further, the meat and eggs of RIR is used both for its meat and eggs. RIR’s egg costs Rs 7. Quail eggs, too, have a number of medic-

The black fowl, which is commonly known as Kadaknath, is the most unique bird he owns and rears. Kadaknath is indigenously cultivated in Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Chennai. Its skin is black in colour while the egg has a deep brown colour. It is more expensive than the local broiler chicken and is known for many health benefits too.

inal properties Even though the egg is smaller than chicken’s, it is rich in many vital nutrients. It is especially prescribed for asthma patients, informed Jahangir. Like Emu’s meat, Quail’s meat is also 98% cholesterol-free. n

temperature. Then I modified it a little and built the machine using an old refrigerator,” Jahangir recounted. This is how his interest in the poultry field grew slowly but

Witnessing almost negligible availability of quail in the city and the wide scope of poultry farming, Jahangir thought of starting rearing and hatching of quail. He explained that after five years, now he is witnessing a satisfactory response from the buyers. n

Affordable tools to other poultry farmers for conducting farming

He thus helps small-scale ahangir informed that if farmers who wish to begin poultry a small farmer wants to farming procure machinery at a begin egg production on a low price. small scale, it usually costs On the other hand, if someone a large sum of money to set does not want to get into up the business. However, RIR is production, a variety they buy which can the output be easily from the reared customers. in the Jahangir backyard added that of farmers. it takes An around 45 average days for poultry the quail’s farmer can baby to easily earn get ready revenue of Jahangir Khan for meat around Rs purpose; 8,000 to Rs they then buy it back from them. 10,000 per week. He added that the business “We sell eggs and birds as a of poultry farming is gaining coordinated process. For instance, popularity by the day and the if someone wants to rear quail, concept is very successful. they take their baby and we also “Now the scenario is such that provide them with machinery for the demand has increased so Rs 65,000 which otherwise costs much that it becomes difficult to close to Rs 3 lakhs in the market keep up with the supply,” said the — price that a small farmer cannot poultry farmer. afford,” said Jahangir. n

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

10 In The News

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

SC verdict dampens Diwali spirit of firecracker sellers this year

File photo of crackers on display at a retail outlet in the city Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

his year the spirit of Diwali has been dampened in the city with the Supreme Court’s verdict restricting the bursting of crackers and allowing only green crackers to be burst. The apex court, on October 23, directed that only green firecrackers which are less polluting would be sold in the country. However, the Supreme Court refused to impose a blanket ban on firecracker sale. Following the top court’s directive, the markets in Guwahati wore a sad look around a week ahead of the festival. Shopkeepers in Fancy Bazaar - the trade hub of the city -

informed G Plus that they are expecting their sales to take a hit with the Supreme Court’s order. “Our sales are yet to properly take off this year as compared to the previous years. Usually the sale of firecrackers used to begin at least a week in advance and the customers used to throng our shops ahead of Diwali to buy various kinds of crackers,” informed Rahul Jalan, a shop owner. He added that they are witnessing a considerable drop in the number of customers and are also expecting a decline in profits this time. Another shop owner at Fancy Bazaar mentioned that some of the shopkeepers are still hopeful that their sales might pick up two or three days before Diwali as the festival inches closer. In order to check the

aggravated air pollution levels due to bursting of firecrackers, a group of activists had petitioned the top court for a complete ban on fireworks. The apex court, permitting the manufacture and sale of green crackers which have low emission across the country, fixed 8 pm to 10 pm as the time period for bursting of firecrackers during Diwali. Further, it has also ordered that on the occasion of New Year and Christmas, bursting of firecrackers will be allowed between 11:45 PM and 12:30 AM. The SC also said that selling of ‘laries’ or series firecrackers will not be allowed in the country. A bench of justices AK Sikri and Ashok Bhushan banned the online sale of firecrackers and restrained e-commerce websites from selling them.

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Venues allotted for sale of crackers: Old Jail Campus, Fancy Bazar Pandu College Field, Pandu Dispur College Field Bonda Bihutali Space below Ganeshguri Flyover Space below Bhangagarh Flyover Space below Sixmile Flyover Geetanagar Field Beltola Bazar, Bihutali Borbari ME School Field Udayan Kishti Sangha Field Lal Ganesh Temple Field Rajdhar Borah Higher Secondary Field Bonda Bihu Field Chandrapur Higher Secondary School Sonapur Mini Stadium Khetri Gaon Panchayat Field Ulubari Girls’ Higher Secondary School Field Sonaram Higher Secondary School Field Paschim Bora Gaon Prathamik Vidyalaya Field Pub Guwahati High School Field

Abhimanyu Saikia, a student and resident of Chandmari told G Plus, “Instead of restricting the bursting of firecrackers with a view to curb pollution, the Supreme Court and the government should actually focus on curbing other forms of pollution which cause more harm to the environment.” He added that the citizens must also exercise caution while bursting crackers and should care for the animals as well as the environment. “The state government had called for a ban on vehicles which

are older than 15 years to reduce levels of pollution. But the ban has still not been implemented; the government should also look into these aspects to better the air quality,” added Saikia. Further, the deputy commissioner of Kamrup (Metro), Virendra Mittal, recently announced that the administration has selected certain places in the city for smooth conduct of the retail selling of fire crackers during the festival of Diwali as per the permission granted by the police commissioner, Guwahati. n

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Guwahati’s 5 iconic places of worship Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

midst the hustle and bustle of the everyday city life, Guwahati also has a number of places spread across the city which have tremendous historical, mythological and religious significance. For the blessings of Goddess Kamakhya to the grace of Saint Basistha; Guwahati is lucky to have beautiful places of worship. Here are the top five places where you can give your soul some peace and take a day out from your busy life.

1. Kamakhya Temple:

Located on top of the Nilachal Hill, Kamakhya Temple holds great historical significance for Hindus. It is one of the oldest of the Shakti Piths is considered an important pilgrimage destination

for devotees. People from far off places come to seek the blessings of Goddess Kamakhya. According to legend, when Sati jumped into the fire and Lord Shiva performed the Tandav dance, the body parts of Sati fell at different places on Earth. Each of these places is now a place of worship. It is believed that Sati’s Yoni or genitals fell on the Nilachal Hill and the Kamakhya Temple came into being.

2. Basistha Ashram:

Located on the bank of River Basistha, the beautiful Ashram makes you calm and helps to connect with the spiritual world. The Ashram which is located in Beltola was made by King Rajeswar Singha of the Ahom Dynasty. Some people even say that the Ashram was established in the Vedic Period by Saint Basistha. The Ashram is situated near the main temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It witnesses heavy footfall of devotees during the Shiv Ratri festival. Situated at a mere 12 kilometers

away from the main city, the Ashram is easily accessible by road.

was founded in 1844 and was c onsecrated in 1850.

3. Umananda Temple:

5. Sukreswar Temple:

This temple is a popular tourist destination since it is built on the Peacock Island in the middle of the Brahmaputra River in the city. It was constructed in 1694 AD on the orders of King Gandadhar Singha, one of the strongest rulers of the Ahom dynasty. It is located opposite the Kachari Ghat of Guwahati and is devoted to Lord Shiva.

Another important temple of Guwahati is the Sukreshwar Temple. Located in the heart of the city on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, the temple draws the attention of devotees of Lord Shiva.

With six Jyotir Lingam and a colossal Shiva Lingam, the temple draws a large number of devotees during important Hindu festivals. It is said that Saint Sukreshwar once meditated for Lord Shiva at this place. The temple was reconstructed by Lord Parattma Singha, the Ahom King. n

4. Christ Church:

Located within the famous Nehru Park at Panbazar, Christ Church is one of the oldest churches in the northeast. The church is 174 years old and has a strong history attached to it. The church was recently renovated by the church’s congregation and is considered as one of the important heritage sites of the state. Christ Church

5 movies that put Assamese cinema on the world map this year! Nehal Jain jain.nehal@g-plus.in

he Assamese entertainment industry is finally witnessing a boom time. From fashion designers to musicians to actors and filmmakers – people from Assam are making a name internationally for their quality work. The Assamese film industry, specifically, is thriving and we’re producing quality movies that are reaching the global audience, being screened at international film festivals and receiving innumerous awards. Here’s the thing about Assamese cinema - they’re simple and beautiful. Our filmmakers do not need big budgets to make artistic and realistic films that speak to one and all. As G Plus turns 5, we look back on the top 5 Assamese films from the year gone by that were successful in making a global impact!

1. Village Rockstars by Rima Das India’s official nomination for the Oscars in the ‘Foreign Language Film category, Village Rockstars has achieved heights that very few Assamese movies

could. It has put Assamese cinema in the world map, once again! The film, which had its World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and India premiere at the Mumbai Film Festival 2018, has been screened in more than 70 international and national film

festivals and won 44 awards, including four National Awards - Best Feature Film Award along with Best Child Artist Award for lead actress Bhanita Das, Best Audiography Award for Ambient Sound and Best Editing Award for Rima Das.

2. Ishu by Utpal Borpujari

The feature film debut of critic-turned-filmmaker Utpal Borpujari, Ishu is a national award winning Assamese film. In the

same year that Village Rockstars won the National Film Award, Ishu won the award for the Best Assamese Film from the President of India. The film has been screened at multiple national as well as international film

festivals, including New York Indian Film Festival, Toulouse Indian Film Festival in France, Bengaluru International Film Festival, Kolkata International Film Festival and International Children’s Film Festival.

3. Xhoixobote Dhemalite (Rainbow Fields) by Bidyut Kokoty

The film has made as much impact in the United States as it did in India. The film not

only released commercially in US, it also got nominated in eight categories at the Love International Film Festival (LIFF) in Los Angeles, US. Xhoixoboite Dhemalite (Rainbow Fields) has been winning awards and acclamations world-wide.

In 2017, it won the Best Foreign Film Award at the Hollywood International Cine Fest. Earlier, the film was appreciated at the screening at International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. It was also screened at the Catoosa Country Film Festival, USA. In 2018, it released at the Cine Grand Cinema Fremont (California) and Cine Grand New Jersey. It also bagged five nominations at the Treasure Coast International Film Festival (TCIFF), Florida -

best film, best director and best screenplay, best editing and best cinematography.

4. Maj Rati Keteki by Santwana Bordoloi The national award-winning Assamese film was premiered at the 21st International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) in the International Competition category. One of the very few Assamese movies that’s available on popular online streaming websites like Netflix and Amazon, Maj Rati Keteki started to gain critical acclaim way before its release; it was adjudged the best Assamese feature film at the 64th National Film Awards.

5. Bulbul Can Sing by Rima Das The film recently premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2018 in the competition segment ‘Contemporary World Cinema’ where it received huge appreciation. Not much after its international premiere, Bulbul Can Sing is set to make its Indian premiere with the Jio MAMI Film Festival in Mumbai, where it’ll be screened in the Indian Contemporary section. n

12 Concern

G PLUS | NOV 03 -

A decade of 2008 Assam blasts: Victims’ kins still await justice Nehal Jain & Saumya Mishra

t was close to noon and a home-maker and mother was preparing food for her family, awaiting the arrival of her husband and children. Her husband had just picked up their daughter from school and was

was horrified! I knew my husband always took that route home. So I called my family members – mother, father, brother, everyone – and rushed to the spot. We spread out in different directions trying to locate that but in vain. Finally, someone told us that the injured people had been taken to GMCH. When we arrived at the hospital and showed their photographs to

shguri, which were crowded with shoppers and office goers. The bomb at Ganeshguri was planted in a car and took place in the vicinity of the Assam Secretariat – the seat of power - claiming the maximum number of lives among all the blasts that day. 10 years after the incident, G Plus spoke to the family members of some of the victims to know their

ter Rumi Kalita who has been seeking a government job. A similar story is that of Jalbanu Begum. Her husband, Sehmat Ali was a city bus driver who fell victim to the bombing because he was doing his duty. Jalbanu has three daughters, the youngest of whom was just six months old when she lost her father. The other two were of eight and nine years of age.

ernment provides them with jobs. She said, “The government isn’t concerned about our well-being at all. They never give any assistance to us or ask about our problems. Instead, they organize a program once a year just for the sake of duty.” Suman Choudhury, the wife of

The 2008 Assam bombings shook the entire country. Reports indicated that as many as eighteen bombs went off, causing at least 81 deaths and 470 injuries. In Guwahati, the blast ripped through Pan Bazar, Fancy Bazar and Ganeshguri, which were crowded with shoppers and office goers.

deceased Rajesh Choudhury, also spoke on the same lines. Rajesh was an auto-rickshaw driver who was driving in the vicinity when the blast took place. He’s survived by his wife and three kids. Suman says, “Even though the government has compensated me adequately, nobody can understand the mental trauma I have been going through. Ranjan Daimary, who was responsible for the blast that took away so many lives, was be-

Tribute to the victims at CJM court premises | G Plus Photo walking home. What happened next 10 years ago was a bomb blast that wiped the father-daughter duo out from the face of the earth. This is the story of Sunita Sharma, a 40 year old resident of Guwahati who lost her husband and daughter in this tragic manner at Ganeshguri. Among the 53 victims of the 2008 Ganeshguri bombing that occurred on October 30 were Sunita’s husband Sagar Sharma and daughter Moromi Sharma. While Sagar was a carpenter, Moromi was a four year old innocent girl studying in nursery grade. Recalling the incidents from the most horrifying day of her life and sobbing at the thought of it all, Sunita told G Plus, “It was a regular day for us. My son, who was just six year old at the time, was at school. My husband had gone to pick up our daughter from school and I was at home, working. Suddenly, there was a loud noise and I rushed outside. Neighbours were talking about a bomb blast that had taken place at Ganeshguri. I

the nurses, they informed us that neither of them was able to survive the injuries of the blast and they had been declared dead.” In the matter of seconds, Sunita had lost her husband and daughter to a mindless act of terrorism. Yet, she had to stay strong to single-handedly raise her six year old son. Sunita started working as a household help to earn a living and invested the compensation amount she had received from the government to buy a small house where she could live with her son and for his formal education. The son, now 16 years old, is studying in a government college in the city and hopes to secure a government job. Sunita, clearly, has done a great job raising her son but there continues to be a void in their life due to the loss suffered. The 2008 bombings of Assam shook the entire country. Reports indicated that as many as eighteen bombs went off, causing at least 81 deaths and 470 injuries. In Guwahati, the blasts ripped through Pan Bazar, Fancy Bazar and Gane-

story. One such story is that of Suku Das. Suku is the mother of Sakil Das who lost his life during the Ganeshguri bombing. His mistake? He used to work in the parking lot where that bomb-laden car was parked. Suku now cleans people’s washrooms for a living because “the compensation received from the government wasn’t enough and my husband doesn’t have a stable job.” Suku also has two daughters and she is saving up for their marriages. Another account is that of Niru Kalita who lost her husband Pramod Kalita in the bombing. Niru, who was a government employee, who now survives on the pension she receives. Speaking to G Plus, she informed that her pension amount is only around Rs 3,000 per month, which she neither receives regularly nor proves enough for her monthly expenses which include medicines. Niru is a heart patient and barely manages to buy her medicines and afford treatment. Her family includes daugh-

Victims and their prayers | G Plus Photo Among the three children, two are studying, while the eldest one (19) isn’t. To support the family expenses, Jalbanu runs a paan shop at 6 Miles, close to her house. She informed G Plus that the compensation received from the government was spent on the girls’ education and she too wishes that the gov-

ing honored and felicitated by the previous government. We, on the other hand, haven’t got justice yet.” Suman appealed to the present government not to allow any pardon to Ranjan Daimary because she believes that if done, terrorism activities will keep continuing. n

Concern

- Nov 09, 2018

A family member of a victim of 30th October, 2008 bomb blast breaks down during a tribute function organised by district administration | G Plus Photo

Not possible to provide jobs to everyone: Govt

ike every year, the state government had organised a condolence meet programme in memory of those who were killed in the 2008 bomb blasts which rocked Assam and left 53 dead in Guwahati alone. A decade later, the wounds of losing their family and friends are still fresh in the minds of family members of the deceased who attended the programme. State education and GDD minister Siddhartha Bhattacharya, deputy commissioner of Kamrup (Metro), Virendra Mittal and police officials among others were present during the occasion on October 30 to pay their respects to the blast victims. Speaking during the occasion Bhattacharya said, “Whenever this sad day arrives, we can’t forget whatever happened ten years ago. Thinking about the future, I feel that we must forget all enmity and bitterness towards each other and conduct talks to solve problems peacefully.” According to officials, the state government had provided compensation to all the blast victims. The Assam government

had provided Rs 3 lakhs each to the next of kin of the deceased. Further, Rs 50,000 each was given to the 238 persons who sustained serious injuries while Rs 10,000 was provided to people with simple injuries. In 2015, the then Kamrup (Metro) deputy commissioner, M Angamuthu, had announced that apart from the compensation given by the state government, the next of kin of the deceased had also received an additional Rs 3 lakhs directly from the centre as a three-year lock in account. Further, according to officials, as per the rules of the Assam as well the central government, there is no provision to provide jobs to next of kin of the families affected by extremism. Authorities said that the families of the victims had been made aware about the job issue years ago and had understood. Additionally, some of them had also brought forth the issue of improper payment of widow pension and Indira Awas Yojana and the government had assured them of all possible help. However, on the other hand, the family members of those

killed in the blasts feel that the government has not done enough for them. They informed G Plus that they feel as if the officials are not concerned about their plight. “The government organises one programme every year to mark the occasion but are least

It is not possible for us to provide jobs to everyone. When this incident occurred a decade ago, the state government had helped them in every way so that their children can go ahead get educated. Treatment to the victims was also provided.”-- education and GDD minister Siddhartha Bhattacharya. Siddhartha Bhattacharya, Education and GDD minister

bothered during the rest of the year. Even during the programme, none of the officials come up to us to ask about our well being or how we are conducting our lives,” complained a woman who had lost her husband in the blast which occurred at Ganeshguri. Family members of some of the victims also lamented the fact that the government did not provide them with any jobs after the incident. Throwing some light on this, Siddhartha Bhattacharya informed, “It is not possible for us to provide jobs to everyone. When this incident occurred a decade ago, the state government had helped them in every way so that their children can go ahead get educated. Treatment to the victims was also provided.” He added that the families had also informed government officials that their children are studying and doing well. “Now suddenly if they ask for jobs for their children, it gets difficult. I told them that how can we snatch away someone else’s right for the same position when the other person might have more merit. Will it be the right thing to do?” said Bhattacharya.

Government officials said that they would be happy to assist if the families need help in some other form; however, they have some restrictions when it comes to providing a job. Further on the other hand, the families of victims also feel that they have not received any justice. National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) chairman Ranjan Daimary, prime accused in the October 30 Assam serial bomb blast case, was granted bail by the Kamrup district and sessions court in April 2013. Daimary was arrested by the Bangladesh Rifles in May 2010 and was handed over to the Indian authorities. He was then produced before the Kamrup court and was later sent to the Gauhati Central jail. He was, however, granted a conditional bail in 2013 and has been out on bail ever since. The NDFB chief was granted bail against two sureties of Rs 3 lakhs each. Further, Daimary was restricted from moving out of the state without permission. The court also asked him to submit his passport and driving license. n

14 G Talk E

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018 T

Not ULFA (I)? Then who?

he crazy piece of news that came in about 5 non-Assamese people being killed by militants in battle fatigues at Dhola near Tinsukia was reminiscent of those troubled times that Assam went through in the 1980s. To be pulled away from their moment of relaxation and killed “execution style” with a weapon as sophisticated as an AK-47 (as per eye witnesses) obviously got the needle of suspicion to point to the Paresh Baruah-led ULFA (Independent); the organization has been in the news of late for a crass attempt at bombing the city of Guwahati just ahead of Durga Puja. The twist in the tale came the next morning with the denial written in eloquent English, in all caps, and printed on its letterhead, signed by a member of the militant outfit’s publicity department. So far, no other militant organization has claimed responsibility for the killing thereby compounding the confusion. The point to ponder here is: if not the ULFA (I), who? For all of the top brass of the state’s police department rushing to the spot and the Indian army launching a massive operation to nab the killers, nothing seems to have materialised so

far. And it will not be surprising if no conclusive evidence comes up that can determine the rogues or organisation that was up to this mindless mischief. But the big point of consternation with these kinds of hate killings is the seeming lack of realization among these perpetrators of hate that there can be retaliation – a kind of retaliation which will throw up civilian Assamese casualties far greater than these five Bengalis that were killed. The exodus of Assamese workers from Bangalore that stemmed from rumours that they would be made targets was enough to create serious panic and this is still fresh in the mind. Just a rumour sent these Assamese scurrying back to their home state. And so, this brings me to wonder what kind of things, messages or politics influence such killers in these remote pockets of Assam that such acts are carried out with no consideration of the broader fallout that can affect the Assamese community at large. It is highly unlikely that the act was done by a few individuals. But the ULFA (I) denial? So who’s lying here? Swapnil Bharali Editor

India: Making SIZE matter

grand statement by the BJP Government last week was to erect the tallest statue in the world. The move, although strong, has been strongly criticized by people, which of course has become the norm these days. But is the public rant justified? Can we not, for once, make an attempt to understand the possible intricacy of the ‘soft’ move? While I personally criticize the government’s actions at the policy and political level, I can’t help but equate this move with a Chinese government parallel. The Chinese government has been building museums all across the country, strategically enhancing their ‘cultural’ power. While countries in the east are said to be ‘culturally rich’ and America is mocked for culturally deficient, this cultural superiority for east and southeast Asian countries has to be made an asset; this statue hints at that direction. A few colleagues asked me about the wastefulness of spending almost Rs 3000 crores on a statue and the miserliness of the government in sanctioning funds during national calamities. Well, look at one as an investment and the other as ‘funds that would be spent’ with no returns. There of course is the obvious parallel between the Statue of Liberty (SOL) and the Statue of Unity (SOU). The SOL stands as a landmark in the US. People flock to the Liberty Island like pigeons, take photographs, create social conversations and the country has been earning dividends from the same for decades now. The idea is to make the SOU a landmark in Indian history. Yes, Vallabhbhai Patel is an important person in Indian history, but whether he deserves to be there is debatable between political factions. Also, this is something we shouldn’t really be bothered about. The statue isn’t coming down at any cost; might as well embrace the history that it brings with it. In less than 10 years, foreign and domestic tourists alike are going to flood the internet with this monument and this adds to the ‘cultural’ power that India should possibly leverage. Sidharth Bedi Varma

A noiseless Diwali please!

iwali, the festival of lights that symbolizes the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance, is around the corner. It also inarguably is the only Indian festival celebrated globally albeit in multifarious ways. While the rest of the world celebrates and assuages itself with lights and colour, in India, Diwali is also sadly associated with a rather annoying phenomenon, the ear-splitting sound of firecrackers that makes many of us happy. As mankind continues to plunge itself into new lows every day abetting unrestrained emission of greenhouse gases, rampant deforestation, ever-multiplying vehicles on the road emitting toxic fumes, the high decibel crackers bursting every nanosecond make Diwali nights invidious and impassable further amplifying nature's misery. The days when all of us passionately waited for this festival as kids, when there were lesser people, lesser vehicles and far lesser pollution are long gone. Over time, Diwali has transformed itself into a menacing affair with humans, animals and nature bearing equal brunt. With the reasons mentioned above that

Burning crackers is burning money Spare a thought for animals Gases and chemicals are nobody’s friend Inevitable fire accidents Not a Happy Diwali for every child To hell with Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

should help us repress the desire to burn firecrackers this Diwali, let us try and jettison our selfcentred outlook for once and exhibit some solicitude for the animals and environment around us. Yes, there will be counter arguments from many quarters asserting that a Diwali without

rIs there any point?

firecrackers would tantamount to a Christmas without the Santa. Regardless, the below reasons, I am sure, will obligate you to reject the loud, noisy and obstreperous firecrackers this Diwali: • Firecrackers don’t come cheap. A colossal amount of money is squandered by people every year who think twice or even more before shelling out a paisa to someone in need. Such ironies exist only in our country and it’s about time we alter our ethos. • We might be having the time of our lives bursting crackers but there are other living beings around us, less privileged, devoid of the ability to communicate the way we do. Think about them all. Fear of loud noises of firecrackers scares the s*** out of dogs and other animals who panic and are seen running helter-skelter for cover. Dogs, for that matter have an outstanding hearing ability that detects sound too faint for the human ear. Therefore, even a low decibel fire cracker is enough to drive them crazy. • Many of the gases and chemicals released by Diwali firecrackers are carcinogenic and major air pollutants like sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide etc. Children and elderly are more vulnerable than the rest and there's an immediate danger for those with asthma, bronchitis or other respiratory discomforts. Other complications like hearing loss, high blood pressure, sleep disturbances etc. complete the vicious circle of condiments that come along. • Fire accidents are a common occurrence during Diwali. A small spark is enough to set ablaze a whole property/area. Irrespective of how cautious one might be, trivial to serious fire related accidents do take place due to gross misjudgment of the potential dangers associated with firecrackers. • The employment of child labourers in firecracker factories across the country isn’t a secret anymore. Often, they work in dangerous conditions leading to accidents, sometimes so serious that leaves them crippled for life. Saying no to firecrackers is the only way to stop it and save these kids. • Firecrackers used in Diwali produce a whopping amount of waste, almost double the usual

O pinion Subhasish Das

capacity of most Indian cities and towns. In the absence of a methodical and mechanized cleaning process, the waste generated thus adds to the already grim situation of waste disposal in our country. If you are still looking for additional incentives to abstain altogether from firecrackers this Diwali, the Supreme Court order restricting the time of cracker bursting to only two hours (8 pm to 10 pm barring South India) and permitting the same only at designated places, should give you just the right stimulus. Considering all aspects including the right of livelihood of firecracker manufacturers and the right of health of over 1.3 billion people, the apex court's order looks pretty balanced and rational that refused to impose a blanket ban on firecrackers and permitted the sale of only green firecrackers in the vulnerable Delhi-NCR region that might help improve the situation there. The real effectiveness of the move can only be assessed once the festival is over. Although easier said than done, the administration must ensure that the court directive is followed by the citizens in toto. The Indian people's utter disregard for regulations and directives during the festive season is habitual and quite well-known. With little to no sense of responsibility often displayed by the populace, it’s up to the authorities now to make sure that lawbreakers are nabbed and brought to book so that others desist from any act of misadventure. Diwali is undeniably the biggest Indian festival and its virtues should not be blown away in cacophony and smoke. Let each one of us take a pledge this Diwali to say NO to loud firecrackers and invest in a safer and greener future. n

Letter to the Editor

very year different programmes are arranged at the blast sites of Guwahati to recall the horrifying October 30, 2008 serial blasts. So many innocent lives were lost in seconds and many were crippled for life. The mastermind of the blasts - NDFB chief Ranjan Daimary - is living a king-size life and roaming freely. Is there any point of holding prayer meetings and memorials when justice is still not delivered? Governments came and went but the victim’s families are still awaiting justice. Similarly, the mastermind of the Dhemaji blast, Arabinda Rajkhowa, is also roaming freely and is sometimes seen on TV giving his sermons wearing gamosa and japi. These sorts of people have amputated Assam and once they realised that they had enough they surrendered and were given a hero’s welcome by the people. Are they are all freed from their sins as they seem to believe? Aparna Sarma, Guwahati

In Focus

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Golap Rabha Bodybuilder, Mr World 2018

he latest entrant to the list of people from Assam making it big in the world of sports is Golap Rabha. Golap is an Assamese bodybuilder who has recently bagged the title of Mister World under WBBF held at Lithuania in Europe on 19th and 21st October. Golap - who participated in three events namely Men Bodybuilding, Men Muscle Model and Pro-Mr World in 80 kgs category - bagged Gold in all the three events. Golap, however, is not a new name in the world of bodybuilding. He already has made a place for himself in both national and international bodybuilding. A member of World Body Building Federation (WBBF), he has been participating in and winning competitions for over ten years now. Born to late Ratan Rabha and Jatne Rabha in Kaliabari village in Boko district of Assam, Golap pursued education from Don Bosco School, Boko. With his father having a fourth grade job, Golap grew up facing financial problems but didn’t quit schooling. But he did start indulging in small businesses to earn extra bucks in

his school days. Recalling how he went from doing business to becoming a professional bodybuilder, Golap told G Plus, “I was a school student when I started doing business and most people did not take me seriously. They mocked me. So, I decided to join the gym to gain muscles and have a good physique to seem like a powerful businessman. It was then that I realized how well my body responded to bodybuilding and my trainer pushed me to pursue the field.” 35 year old Golap, who started bodybuilding in the year 2000 under the guidance of Jiten Kalita, started competing in championships in 2003. In his first professional competition, Golap lost terribly. Instead of quitting then, he started training more aggressively, researching about the field and learning new techniques. Finally, in 2008, he started competing again. Since then, there has been no looking back. Golap won Junior Mr Kamrup and Junior Mr Assam for two

consecutive years – 2008 and 2009. He bagged the title of Mr Kamrup in 2013 and Mr Assam in 2013 as well as 2016. Additionally, he was the runner up at Mr India 2015. He has also been titled as Mr Eastern India, Mr Luit and Mr

Fitpack Classic among others. In 2017, Golap finally lived his dream when he was crowned Mr India in the 70 kg category. He went on to win Mr India 2018 (champion of the champions), followed by Mr Asia 2018 and Mr World 2018. The bodybuilding champion is now training for Mr Universe 2018 and Mr Asia Professional to be held in Thailand from November 24-26. Speaking about representing his land in international competitions, an elated Golap said, “It feels great to represent the country. I always had the vision to establish the name of Assamese gamocha and Rabha pajar globally. With this win, I feel like I’ve accomplished that. Now, I want people outside the state to know about Boko and Assam.” Golap is not just a winner but an inspiration for all. He now runs a gym named ‘My Gym’ and trains six hours daily at his village Boko. The gym, started in 2017, currently has membership strength of over 150 individuals. Golap informed G Plus that while the techniques taught in his gym are modern, the equipments aren’t very advanced. In fact, a lot of the equipments have been prepared by Golap himself. The world renowned bodybuilder believes that everybody should

be healthy - both physically and mentally. His advice to the younger generation is that they stay away from alcohol and drugs and focus on their fitness instead. While every fitness enthusiast and bodybuilder follows a different diet chart, Golap says that they all have one thing in common - low carb food. His diet includes eggs, oats, chicken breasts, fish, fruits, salad and loads of water. Additionally, he sometimes eats chapattis but tries to avoid rice. In a statement released by the government, chief minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal, has congratulated Golap for his feat and said that the bodybuilder has made the state proud and lent fresh momentum to bodybuilding as a sports discipline in Assam. However, Golap informed G Plus that he has never received financial aid from the state government. “Whenever I approached members of government of Assam, they shut me out. They neither entertained my requests nor showed any respect for the sport of bodybuilding,” Golap expressed. He added that for an athlete to succeed, he/she needs immense support from family members and the government but the Assam government seems to not understand the efforts put in by the athletes and do not extend support until the athlete has gained media and public attention.

A paper ticket was folded up and thrown at Bollywood singer Shaan during his live concert in Guwahati with a written message to sing Assamese songs. Here is how Guwahatian’s reacted to the incident. Sunreeta Sen Assam is at the forefront while shouting anti-community slogans. But we cannot give that minimum respect to an individual that he/she deserves. I guess people like Priyanka Chopra must be seeing this and feeling ashamed of doing the Awesome Assam ad. Forget about being called “Awesome,” some people don’t know how to respect an artist/ singer/performer. Ask yourself guys, why will anyone come here? They will mock at us and say, “Toh tum Assam se hai? Wahape ab bhi kitna violence hota hai na?” Who will believe that Assam is a beautiful and peaceful state? Himam Chakraborty We the people of Assam are known to be hospitable towards visitors. We are sorry for such a pathetic incident. Respecting different cultures and spreading the knowledge of unity in diversity has been our motto. Such incidents are perpetrated by those who are not educated by our society, who donot have any sense of social responsibility in them. To have a developed Assam, the foremost thing is to educate all people of the state. Churchill Marak If an Assamese would have been treated the same way outside Assam, just imagine the hue and cry it would have created in the entire state. So many artists from Assam like Zubeen and Papon have performed shows outside Assam. Wonder if they ever or never sang Assamese songs! If the people of Assam want to be respected in the other states of the country, then they should first start respecting people who come to our place.

Prodyut Borah It’s not a question of regionalism. Though Assam has a sizeable Bengali population, it’s not the language of the general masses here. How thoughtful would it be if someone from Nagaland sings Naga songs in a concert held in Bangalore just because the city has a sizeable Naga population? It’s not hatred against any particular section/community, but plain common sense.

Manish Chetia Patra For all the stupid macher jhoul here, Shaan clearly said that only a paper ticket was thrown at him and by a single person. You people blaming the entire community and place proves why you are hated here. I have loved Shaan from my childhood days and feel sorry for the mistreatment. But have you even read what he said?

Priyanshu Mrinmoy Das Some people think that they are so Assamese that they have built walls around them with certain notions in their minds. Like an artist should sing in Assamese only but we can watch and listen to other songs and movies anywhere. There should be only Sankardeva way of Naam and Kirtan, other pujas should not be followed like Bol Bom, Hanuman puja, Durga puja, Ganesh puja etc. Such attitude will bring no development to the state. It’s a shame that every time such incidents happen in Assam only.

16 Fiction

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Beijing days, Shanghai Nights… A sojourn in China Sangeeta Kakoty

98640-45359 sksk301@gmail.com

(1) the famous UNESCO World Heritage, the Terracotta soldiers. A collection of about 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots and 520 horses, 150 cavalry horses, all life

hina? Why China??? This was the common reaction when I mentioned to people that my Puja vacation trip was to China. It had really been a spur-of-themoment decision when we (my husband and I) decided to take a look at the Cox & Kings offers during a fair in Hotel Novotel, Guwahati. The 10-day Mysterious China Package to Xi’an, Beijing, Shanghai and Kunming caught our fancy and we booked then and there. 12.35 AM on 16th October, 2018 we took the flight from Kolkata to Kunming. Our entire group consisted of us four Guwahatians (Me, Bablu, Nanu Da and Sipra Bou) and 31 others from various areas in and around Kolkata ranging from 18 to 80 years of age. Our tour manager was a young lad, DDG (Durga Das Ghosh), himself on his first visit to China! 5.30 AM China time (2 hours 30 minutes ahead of us) we landed in Kunming and from there, took the Eastern China flight to Xi’an at 9.45 AM. At 11.55 AM, we landed and were received by Ms Violet, our local guide. Driven straight for lunch to an Indian restaurant, Violet, in her accented English, did her best to give all information about Xi’an on the away. Xi’an is a big beautiful city

with greenery all round, clean to perfection and with an easy pace of life. Our hotel, Laika, was the okay types. Here, during our 3-day tour we were taken to

size sculptures depicting the army of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, (2) the Wild Goose Pagoda, a serene Buddhist Monastery established by a scholar from India, Tushita, (3) The City Wall (13 kms), where we used bicycles to look around. It is like a miniature Great Wall, (4) the Shanxi Museum of History was a great place but needed more time, (5) The Tang Dynasty showing the Shanxi Sunshine Theatre was a touristy experience. From Xi’an we boarded a train to Beijing. It was a 12 hour journey. Arriving at 7.00 AM, we found

Beijing cold but our local guide Ms Aimi was a cute and warm person. Much to the chagrin of our group, the itinerary said a quick

breakfast at McDonald (freshen up) and then a daylong tour! This is the most irritating thing about package tours: that hectic, by-theclock routine. Another thing, in China hotel check in/out is at

2.00 PM. So, here we stood, a bunch of bedraggled people bundled off to see the Summer Palace. This was the summer retreat of the emperors in the past and now the largest and most ancient preserved garden in China that included

100 pavilions, mansions, halls, temples and an enormous man-made lake. Our own Joy Sagar seemed like a bath-tub in comparison! Post lunch we trouped into Hotel Xingzheju which was much better than the previous. Beijing is the capital of the most populous country in the world but there were no horns

blown, no overtakes done, no rushing around. Everyone drove within speed limits. The visits we were taken to included the Great Wall of China (a lifetime experience), the Imperial tombs of the Ming dynasty, the Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Birds’ Nest stadium (of 2008 Olympics fame), the Jade factory and the Chinese traditional medicine centre (these two were business!). Plus there were two interesting shows: the Kung Fu show and the Golden Mask show, where the stagecraft was unbelievable. Real water gushing in torrents on stage to show a flood was amazing to say the least! From Beijing to

but the cruise on the Huang-Ho was a fabulous experience with the full glory of Shanghai by night on show. In Hong Kong one gets to see the lights on only one side but here one can enjoy both sides of the river. It was like Diwali gone bonkers on those 45-65-76 storied buildings and hotels! The ride on the Maglev Bullet train (450 km/hr) is something I will boast about to my grandchildren. The Yu Yuan gardens in Old Shanghai and an acrobatic show thrown in completed our tour here. From Shanghai we caught an Eastern China flight to Kunming, our final stop before returning home. We never realised on the first morning that Kunming Airport is humongous with 285 gates! Welcomed by Kailao, our local guide, I fell in love with this place. It is beautiful with its slightly hilly terrain, clean azure skies, super broad roads, shops galore, and lovely ambience. If I ever want to return to China, it has to be to Kunming. A one night stay was definitely not enough. A direct flight from Guwahati would be about an hour only! The highlight here was the

Shanghai was a 5-hour high speed (300 km/ hr) train ride. Here we were welcomed by a real entertainer, Mr Richard, who was besotted with Bollywood, particularly Aishwarya Rai. A drizzle made it cold but thankfully it did not last long. Shanghai is huge, full of skyscrapers, traffic, malls, decorations et al but without chaos, horns, speeding or rushing. The view from the 263 metre tall Pearl Tower through the glass bottom (though we had to do with a very poor vision due to bad weather) was knee-shaking. The view of the river from the Bund in the morning was nice

Stone Forest 80 kms away from the city. A UNESCO W.H site, this one has to be seen! Monoliths of all shapes and sizes that had once (2,00,000 million years ago) been under water, now polished by the elements. Spread across hundreds of acres this is nature’s marvel. Hectic no doubt, but an experience cherished! Shopping was not a priority but we managed to grab some knickknacks. To the travel lovers out there, China should not be missed. But a program through a travel agency is a good idea because communication, connectivity (roaming must) and food could otherwise become nightmares. n

Trotter

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Mumbai artist creates massive Virat Kohli mosaic with over 4,000 diyas

Mumbai-based artist has created a massive clay lamp mosaic of Virat Kohli as a tribute to his favourite cricketer, just ahead of Diwali. Abaasaheb Shewale’s mosaic art, up on display at the Seawood Grand Central Mall in Navi Mumbai, was created using 4,482 clay lamps or diyas. Shewale said that the 9.5-foot wide and 14-foot long mosaic art is the world’s largest clay diya mosaic. “I have applied for the Guinness World Record, India Book of Records and Unique World Records,” he said. The unique artwork was created with red, white, blue, green, yellow and brown diyas. Along with five co-artists, Snehal Shewale, Tanuja Shewale, Suraj Gole, Kumar Hadwale and Rupesh Tandel, it took Shewale eight

hours to create the huge mosaic. “It was created in honour of Kohli’s birthday and well as Diwali,” said Shewale. Virat Kohli’s birthday falls on November 5, just two days before Diwali this year.

hospital in Chile from the remote research centre where the pair worked but his life is not said to be in danger. Savitsky is now back at home in St Petersburg under house arrest after being charged with

attempted murder. It is believed to be the first time that a man has been charged with such a crime on the world’s loneliest continent. The alleged attack took place on Russia’s Bellingshausen research station on King George Island, part of the South Shetland island group. Witness statements have been taken and are currently being examined by the Russian Investigative Committee in St Petersburg. Savitsky has expressed remorse over the attack in the station’s canteen. Reports say the altercation was fuelled by alcohol and the outpost’s tiny living space. (Source: mirror.co.uk)

Indian diamond merchant makes gift of 600 cars to staff with Modi's help

rime Minister Narendra Modi helped a diamond merchant hand over hundreds of cars as gifts to his employees. Six hundred employees of Hari Krishna Exporters, a diamond trading company run by Savji Dholakia, received cars made by Maruti Suzuki, while around a thousand more staff were offered gifts of cash deposits and apartments in a huge outdoor ceremony in Surat, Gujarat. Indians often give each other

gifts in the run-up to Diwali, a major Hindu festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil that this year falls on November 7. Modi addressed the prizegiving in his home state of Gujarat via video link, as well as presenting some of the employees with car keys in the capital, New Delhi. Dholakia is famous across India for giving lavish gifts to his employees on Diwali, including hundreds of apartments in 2016’s ceremony. The showroom

2-year-old girl wins Halloween with creepiest costume ever by carrying her own severed head

The impressive mosaic was created on October 28 and has garnered a ton of appreciative comments on social media. “Awesome,” wrote one person on Facebook. “Superb,” said another. (Source: indianexpress)

Scientist ‘stabs colleague who kept telling him the endings of books he was reading’ scientist working in a remote outpost in Antarctica allegedly stabbed his colleague because he kept telling him how the books he was reading would end. Sergey Savitsky, 55, and Oleg Beloguzov, 52, would often spend hours reading during the four years they worked together in the lonely location. According to reports, Savitsky has told Russian investigators that he saw red and attacked Beloguzov with a kitchen knife when he once again ruined the ending. His colleague is now reportedly in intensive care in hospital after being treated for a stab wound to the heart. He was flown to the

value of the 600 cars would be more than $2 million. Gift-giving in the latter part of the year when several Hindu festivals are celebrated provides a major boost to India’s economy. The gifts were part of a program targeting staff who have given loyal service to the diamond trader. “The aim of this program was to reward employees’ loyalty and dedication towards the company,” Dholakia said in a Facebook post. (Source: Reuters)

toddler has won the year's best Halloween costume with the creepiest costume ever. Two-year-old Maya Hwang wore the epic costume which was designed by her mother, Krystel. The stay-at-home mum spent two days making the costume which makes it look like the child is carrying her own severed head. The floral dress has an opening in the chest which allows Maya's head to poke through. An extension on the back of the dress creates the appearance of a ghoul whose head has been chopped off. Older sister Charlie, aged six, then walks alongside her while holding a knife and of course an empty pumpkin basket to collect trick-or-treat gifts.

Little Maya won a competition at a school in Paraaaque City, Philippines, for the best costume. And a video of them bringing terror to their home town of South Bay Village has been viewed more than 20 million times. Proud mum Krystel, who loves making costumes, said, "My daughter looks so sweet. Everybody loves her costume. There's also a place in the top of the dress for putting sweets.” "I used mostly duct tape and paper to make it and both my daughters were actually involved in the creation of their costumes. You know, Halloween is really for fun. I'm not pushing my kids toward darkness. It's a chance for us to have fun. I get ideas from them and they get to be creative." (Source: mirror.co.uk)

New York town changes name to Hauntington for Halloween

New York state town agreed to undergo a spooky temporary name change from Huntington to Hauntington thanks to a 7-year-old's suggestion. Officials in Huntington said the town was known as Hauntington for the one day of October 31, and on every Halloween going forward, after the town board unanimously voted to approve the suggestion from 7-year-old Angelica Dee Cunningham. "One of the best things about

Huntington is the way we celebrate Halloween. I love getting dressed up, going into town and tricker treating with my friends," the girl wrote in a letter addressed to Town Supervisor Chad Lupinacci. "I think this Oct Huntington should officially be called 'Hauntington.' This would be fun to say, for me, my friends and all the citizens of Huntington," she wrote. The girl said her suggestion was inspired by a Monster High doll named Ari Hauntington. (Source: upi)

18 Review

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Starring: Javed Jaffrey, Vijay Raaz, Karan Anand, Meenakshi Dixit, Niki Walia Director: Prabhuraj

L Movie Review

LUPT

upt revolves around a road trip turned into a spooky nightmare as a family of four is attacked by strange entities. Harsh Tandon (Javed Jaffrey) is a highly ambitious businessman who suffers from insomnia. Possibly, owing to his sleep disorder, he starts seeing things and is advised by his psychiatrist to take a break from work. He packs his model daughter (Meenakshi Dixit) and her photographer boyfriend (Karan Anand), his prankster son (Rishabh Chadha) and his dutiful wife (Niki Walia) and heads for Nainital to take a much needed break. As far as horror films go, the setup is almost decent. It’s a proper, bright and sunny vacation that the Tandon family embark on. But the manner in which their trip

turns into a horror fest is shown in a rather shoddy way. Javed Jaffrey with a gruff voice and an authoritarian manner about him is bearable as the family patriarch. Only him and the ghosts in the film (Rishina Kandhari) give a credible performance along with Vijay Raaz at whose mysterious outhouse the entire story unfolds. The scares in the film are weak. With their panda-like makeup, the spirits keep popping out at unexpected times to try and scare you, which gets old soon. The suspense, too, is weak and the payoff almost humorous. There is nothing great to look forward to in the cinematography or the music departments either. For 'Lupt' to really scare you, you have to either be super fainthearted or a child. Not really a great Halloween movie, this one. n

Starring: Amit Sadh, Sonal Chauhan, Arbaaz Khan Director: Sachin P Karande

uccessful, ambitious and a human machine: these three characteristic traits define the caricature of a character called Waliya, played by Arbaaz Khan, who is equally bad in this no-brainer. On the other hand, we have this pretty bibliophile stay-at-home wife Shilpa, who seeks solace outside of her nearempty mansion in south Goa. If you thought, this is predictable, wait for it. The collective consciousness and mutual love of this almost estranged couple awakens when a much younger, thoroughly irritating, novice of a detective comes in the picture and creates ruckus in their already splintered domestic life. It’s one thing to have a bad script and another, to feature in a haphazard movie. The unpreparedness of the director and overall senselessness of the film

he OnePlus 6T priced at Rs. 37,999 — with a new fingerprint reader and a smaller notch — is perhaps the OnePlus's most minor re-

is evident in many sequences. For instance, there is a section where Amit Sadh’s part is randomly dubbed by another shrill voice before the actor again takes over. Also, other than Sonal, who looks presentable and fits her part, no other actor has rendered or even tried to do justice to what they have in hand. Arbaaz Khan's role as the uptight business tycoon is never given the opportunity to grow and develop as the story progresses, leaving him look like a misfit in this insipid tale of monotonous love, followed by competition and jealousy. Unless these three reasonably good artistes have big debts to clear, I don’t see a reason as to why anyone in their right minds would say yes to a chaotic rom-com like ‘Jack & Dil’. n

One Plus 6T

fresh ever in terms of hardware, but it could be the most significant in terms of experimentation and strategy, and the evolution of OnePlusasaglobalplayer.

Design:

The OnePlus 6T does feel somewhat fresh in terms of keeping up with trends, but not much has changed over the past five months, so the differences between this phone and its predecessor are subtle. First of all, the chunky notch has been replaced with a slight ‘waterdrop' dip for the front camera. The earpiece is designed into the seam where the front glass meets the phone's metal rim, and it's not too smalltocausediscomfort.

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Movie Review

JACK AND DIL The biggest downside of this notch design is the death of the popular multi-colour notification LED that's been OnePlus staple till now. The screen is slightly larger than that of the OnePlus 6, at 6.41 inches compared to 6.2 inches before. The corners have very wide curves, and unfortunately some UI elements and fullscreen apps look like they'vebeencutoffawkwardly. OnePlus will ship this phone with a pre-applied screen protector because it can't guarantee that aftermarket ones will allow the in-display fingerprint sensor to work. That brings us to biggest new feature of the OnePlus 6T — its in-display fingerprint sensor. Well, it's not as good as a standard one. It will be amusing for a while and it's great to show off, but in day-to-day useitjustgetsalittlefrustrating.

Specifications:

There are no major changes to the specifications. We still have the same octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor running at up to 2.8GHz with integrated Adreno

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630 graphics. The base variant now has 128GB of storage with 6GB of RAM, the next step up gets you 8GB of RAM with no increase in storage, and the top-end variant has the same 8GB of RAM with 256GB of storage. The increase in screen size is mainly along the vertical axis, taking the resolution up from 1080x2280 to 1080x2340. Battery capacity is also up, from 3300mAh to 3700mAh. That's always good, but it comes at the cost of a slight weight increasefrom177gto185g. There's Gorilla Glass 6 for physical protection, but OnePlus doesn't claim any dust- or water-resistance rating. There's still no wireless charging as the company believes “it's too slow”, which is slightly disappointing. One very minor niggle is that you get only USB 2.0 transfer speedthroughtheType-Cport.

Camera:

OnePlus has missed one very current trend, which is the addition of a third (or fourth) rear camera. Instead, we get exactly the

same hardware as on the outgoing model. The primary rear camera is a 16-megapixel unit with a Sony IMX519 sensor and f/1.7 aperture. Yougetopticalandelectronicimage stabilisation with it. The secondary 20-megapixelSonyIMX376Ksensor is used only for depth sensing and to speedupautofocus. On the front, there's a single 16-megapixel Sony IMX371 sensor with an f/2.0 aperture and electronicstabilisation.

Verdict:

For all the new features of the OnePlus 6T, there are some significant losses. Sure, waterdrop notches are now in fashion, and the in-screen fingerprint sensor is great for showing off, but neither of them necessarily represent any improvement over the functionality, usability, or power of the OnePlus 6. The OnePlus 6T is good at what it does, but it isn't a clear-cut upgrade — not that one was even needed. If the OnePlus 6 continued to be available, we would likely recommend it overthenewermodel. n

Entertainment

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Curtains come down on 2nd GIFF

he second edition of Guwahati International Film Festival (GIFF), organised by Jyoti Chitrabon in association with Dr Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film & Television Institute and supported by the Government of Assam, concluded on October 31, Wednesday. The closing ceremony was attended by state cultural affairs minister, Naba Kumar Doley. Filmmaker Saji N Karun was the chief guest at the closing ceremony. A total of 108 acclaimed films from over 50 countries were screened in the second edition of the GIFF, which began on October 25. As many as nine films from northeast India were also screened at the weeklong festival. The films were screened in four theatres at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra and Jyoti Chitrabon premises. The festival this year was attended by around 5,000 registered delegates. Over a hundred internationally acclaimed filmmakers, actors and film personalities from all over visited the festival. The opening film of the festival was Bhonga Khirikee, directed by Jahnu Barua and the closing film was Black

Zubeen, Papon share stage at Northeast Festival, enthral audience

Crow, directed by Muhammet Tayfur Aydin from Turkey. “We are overwhelmed by the response we received at the Guwahati International Film Festival 2018. It is nice to see such interest in international films among the common people. And, we are thankful to all our guests

for making this the be st film festival ever to happen in North East India,” a statement issued by the organisers said. This edition of GIFF focussed on ASEAN countries and it received cooperation from all 10 ASEAN countries. Further, the presence of ambassadors and envoys from Serbia, Argentina, Latvia, Myanmar, Lithuania and Estonia made the film festival a grand success. “The government of Assam has accorded approval for holding a short film, documentary and children’s film festival very soon,” Pabitra Margherita, chairman of Jyoti Chitrabon informed the media.

eartthrobs Zubeen Garg and Angaraag Papon Mahanta enthralled the music lovers at the Northeast Festival on Friday evening. The sixth edition of the Northeast festival began on Friday at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) in New Delhi where the duo shared the stage. To woo their fans from Assam, both the singers churned out a soulful Bihu number which received thunderous applause from their admirers. Zubeen, who was present at the back stage, joined Papon when the organizers announced that the Feeling Blue hit-maker was also present at the venue. Thereafter, both the singers performed together to the immense satisfaction of the audience. The three-day long festival also witnessed performances by Assamese sensation Neel Akash, rapper Rahul Rajkhowa, Voice of India winner Pawandeep Rajan and popular DJ Shameless Mani among others. With a variety of cuisines, refreshing cultural programs and discussions on important issues including the NRC of Assam, this edition of the festival was a big hit! The colourful extravaganza

brought together the magnificent northeast onto one forum. The multitude of cuisines from the region was one of the main attractions of the festival with more than 40 food stalls from Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, Arunachal, Sikkim, Mizoram, Tripura and Meghalaya. The vibrant fashion from the north east also found a prominent place at the festival with designers like Yana Ngoba, Barsha Aditya Singh, Rupert Lynrah, and Escape Engmoiya among others showcasing their creations. Exhibitions of art and photography too presented a canvas of colours from the northeast in the festival. The annual event, hosted by Assamese anchors Yankee Parashar and Nabish Alam also witnessed 25 top rock bands of Delhi’s colleges fight it out in a competition.

20 Fun

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Horoscope of the week You will remain keen to deploy the savings with a view to get higher returns. However this sounds pretty much good, invest in the plans that can keep your money safe. Look out for the long-term security of your savings. Business fellows need to avoid short-term travel over Wednesday and Thursday because chances are there that you face troubles while traveling.

This week, you better be emotionally and mentally strong as someone from your close relatives is going to give you a heavy emotional breakdown. Don’t lose courage. Be confident; handle yourself and the situation with tact so that even the relationship doesn’t get affected. Influence of Jupiter over your Sign and Moon present therein will restore your confidence.

In the beginning, you may miss some very good opportunities while running behind a monetary gain. Next day, there seem possibilities that you go for shopping things which aren’t actually required. So, pay due attention towards the spending areas and accordingly plan out the expenses. This week, no major financial gain is foreseen.

Some misunderstandings and differences may spoil your meaningful relationship. It’s better not to let any discrepancy come across your bonding. And if anything such comes, handle it with sensitivity, tact and kindness. Malefic Rahu moving through your 12th House is to lead you through increased expenses.

This week will keep you busy with occupational activities. Business fellows need to formulate a strong strategy in terms of roping in potential customers and boosting the sales. Benevolent Jupiter seems to support business fellows on this count. Wily Saturn, according to its nature, may test your strength and endurance. Make sure that you go well with the test and give your best.

A change is on the horizon. Have you been looking for a job? Then, a fruitful opportunity may arise. Some of you may be changing their residence, while a few may be handed over a transfer order. Whatever it is – Saturn moving through your 3rd House would prompt a real ‘move’. Professionals may also get a better designation and remuneration, portend the stars.

Positions of planets at week’s beginning portend a major gain – most likely, by the way of inheritance. However, planets in your birth chart would be a precise indicator of this. Businesses may gain from foreign connections and networks. Professionals, however, may not be comfortable with their present work-place.

Married ones will make concerted efforts to preserve peace and harmony in their marital life. Things may not go well for you on the occupational front. You need to put in more efforts, maybe! Thankfully, your financial health remains sound, giving you enough cause to cheer. You will remain attentive to the needs and aspirations of your younger sibling/s.

If you have been in debt for some time now – this is a good time to start repayments. You will be able to organize funds, which is sure to bring relief. However, continue to watch your expenses, as it would be mandatory for you to maintain a healthy financial position. With Saturn present in your 12th House, you must plan your finances with a longterm view, keeping enough provision for contingencies.

Planetary positions indicate a good, supportive time for couples, eager to bear a child. Parents will have a reason to cheer – as the apple of their eye may bring laurels. However, health and learning difficulties of your child or a younger relative may make you, somewhat, anxious. Take care! Love birds are all mushy – but as they say, excess of everything is a trouble.

2 7 1 5 8 4 5 2 3 4 5 2 7 6 3 5 2 3 1 7 4 7 9 6 9 8 1 5 1 6 6 9 4 5 6 8 6 5 1 2 5 4 6 7 8 5 Daily Sudoku: Fri 2-Nov-2018

8 3 7

Guiletta Masina was the wife and in most films the lead actress, of which famous film director?

Which organisation traces its roots back to an organization called Cachar Levy, which was founded in 1835?

Which US Government wing was set up in 1908 by Charles Bonaparte?

Anthea Bell who died recently, translated which series of ever green books into English?

Identify the ‘mysterious’ organisation from the logo?

Dr. Soubhadra Chakrabarty This quiz has been brought to you by Brain Jam, a property of Priya Communications

hard

medium

8 last 6 2week 3 7 solution 9 5 4 1 3 1 7 5 8 4 9 2 6 9 6 4 7 5 2 3 8 1 9 4 5 6 1 2 7 3 8 8 1 2 6 9 3 5 4 7 2 9 3 1 5 6 8 7 4 7 3 5 1 4 8 2 6 9 1 7 8 4 9 3 2 6 5 2 7 3 5 1 6 8 9 4 6 5 4 7 2 8 1 9 3 5 4 1 9 8 7 6 3 2 7 8 6 9 3 1 4 5 2 2 36 45 73 11 57 46 28 99 8 4 24 17 96 78 89 53 35 16 2 1 9 7 8 6 5 4 2 3hard Daily Sudoku: Fri 2-Nov-2018

4 2 8 3 7 9 1 5 6 Daily Sudoku: Fri 26-Oct-2018

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Word of the week

curio-city

Which is the only country in mainland South America to have English as an official language?

4 3 2

http://www.dailysudoku.com/

1. Guyana 2. Federico Fellini 3. Assam Rifles 4. FBI 5. Asterix 6. Freemasonry

Daily Sudoku: Fri 26-Oct-2018

curio-city

Luann By Greg Evans

Sudoku

This week will keep you busy with things more related to the family, especially your siblings. However you have been thinking of spending time with them for so long, you can’t manage. This week is good time to sit, listen to them and solve their problems. They will love you more for this, certainly!

This last week of October will keep you busy in saving money for the future requirements. But this may lead you to develop the temptation of increasing money inflow and thereby pushing to practice the fraudulent or wrong ways to earn more money. Don’t you even think to do this, says Ganesha. Do hard work, even if it asks for long working hours.

ossature noun [os-uh-cher] the arrangement of bones in the skeleton or a body part.

Crossword Across

Down

1 Challenge to do something foolhardy (4) 3 Wealthy (8) 9 Photograph taken for police records (3,4) 10 Serious drinker (5) 11 One in the saddle (5) 12 Out and about (6) 14 The Flying Dutchman composer, d. 1883 (7,6) 17 Burrowing marsupial (6) 19 Particular kind of duck (5) 22 Scram! (3,2) 23 Neutral (anag) — French car (7) 24 Funds for a campaign (3,5) 25 Defended successfully (4)

1 Brown sugar (8) 2 Unable to bend (5) 4 Irregular bursts of activity (4,3,6) 5 Afterwards (5) 6 Make intelligible (7) 7 Cover over with grass (4) 8 Mountain people from Nepal and Tibet (6) 13 Stopped (8) 15 Axe (7) 16 Providing assistance (6) 18 Bungle (5) 20 Ill-treatment (5) 21 Reveal (4)

Last week’s solution

Lifestyle

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Vaastu for Diwali preparations

s Diwali is approaching, people have started cleaning their houses, shops and business establishments. Some apply a fresh or new coat of paint to the walls. While doing this, one has to be careful not to neglect the Vaastu rules for colours according to their directions. Every colour has its own significance and effect and ignoring this fact can spell Vaastu disasters. The yellow colour plays a big role in Indian culture and it is used widely. You will notice that most of the Indian foods have the yellow colour dominating unlike western cuisine which is more or less white with lot of green. Light yellow colour is very good for the exterior of the house as well as the master bedroom. It is specially

recommended for rooms at southeast. The north is responsible for wealth and prosperity. Green colour is recommended at north which is ruled by Lord Kuber and Mercury.

Light aquamarine and blue are best for the northeast. White or light green should be used at east. Since the southeast is ruled by the fire element, light orange, pink or yellow can be used. The northwest is ruled by the

moon. So, silver, white and light cream are best at northwest. The south being ruled by Mars and being a very potent direction, red and yellow are suitable. Blue and white are recommended at west. While light or pastel colours are recommended for the walls of rooms, deep and dark colours are recommended for doors, windows and their frames. Shopping and purchases for home are one of the main features during this festive season. It starts from the Navratri and continues till Diwali through Durga Puja and Dusshera. This period is very auspicious for new purchases. People even buy new cars, bikes, furniture, land or houses in this period. There are some Vaastu rules for buying furniture. Saturdays, Tuesdays and

Interior lighting trends to get you in the right mood for Diwali

No way to understand The rage, burning in What happened to that star? Full of anger and scar? Lying scattered in that space and in that room That used to be a palace of hopes Centripited out your heart And is now a place of filth and dirt Shadows of object not seen Tied by some threads, but not green Tides high, rising above the sky And a bulb in it shining through But i believe in you And i know that it's true Still with that light Still with that smile Travelling at the speed of light, is your mind Playing with the past and the future And tweaking the present What is it that you mind? Is it your mind or your eyes? A dream or maybe a reality Of from a parallel universe. I do believe,neither it's a boon nor a curse You don't know what are you doing,where are you going? Knowing that you're an energy that can't be destroyed or created And makes you smile, That you're always there, and always will be, But still when i look back, No way to understand The rage, burning in What happened to that star? Full of anger and scar?

CHANDELIERS –

Chandeliers are undoubtedly the most lustrous and attractive lights available in the market. One chandelier in the middle of the room and you’re good to go with the lighting decorations. Nowadays, a variety of chandeliers are available in attractive colours, shapes and sizes. While some like to go with the ever beautiful large sized crystal chandeliers, the newest trend however are ceiling touch chandeliers especially for rooms and houses with low height.

HANGING LIGHTS –

Hanging lights is the newest trend when it comes to indoor lighting. One can also use them to brighten up the garden or patio with hanging light fixture clustered at various heights. If you’re not much into chandeliers, you should definitely go with hanging lights

that are adjustable in length. Mix and match to your heart’s content with creative combinations of forged metal, natural wood, fabric shades, and intricately cut glass - and your eye catching lighting set up is ready!

LED LIGHTS AND MIRRORS –

LED lights set just the right mood for conversations and cards. Hanging from the edges of the false ceiling or top edges of windows, this adds a sparkle to the living room. One can also opt for LED strings, LED strips, multi-colour LED sticks, floral crystals and waterproof LED lights, for the festive season. Additionally, there are mirrors available in the market installed with LED lights in the boundaries. They come in all shapes and sizes. What’s even better is that they’re touch screen and change colors with each touch of your finger!

LANTERNS –

An impressive, decorative lantern hanging in the entrance of your house can give a magnificent

look! They add the festive sparkle when teamed with some candles and fairy lights. Antique-style kerosene lamps are also popular. They are available in different colours and can add an ethnic touch to the home’s decor. Lanterns are evergreen. There are colouful lanterns for those with a bold choice, antique lanterns for traditional purposes as well as fairy lights and ropes decorated lanterns for a boho/chic look for your house.

WALL LIGHTS –

Running the gamut from function to flair, wall lights come in a wide array of styles and serve many purposes. The market is flooded with a wide range of wall lights– from traditional to modern to chic, you name it and they have it! But the most suggested range this Diwali are the laser cutting wall lights. There are wall lights available in the shape of ‘Om’ and Lord Ganesha too, if you’re looking for something more traditional.

Hemanta Kumar Sarmah Engineer, Businessman, Advanced Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acupressure specialist.

Life's Paragon

Nehal Jain jain.nehal@g-plus.in his Diwali, give your house a bright and colorful look with the wide range of fancy lights that have come in trend. Today, there’re a plethora of lighting options available in the market from simple clay diyas to fancy light fixtures - to light up one’s home for Diwali. But that’s not what we’re talking about. This Diwali, think out of the box and give your house a different touch. Chandeliers, wall lights, LED lights can enhance the aesthetic value of the home. So, here are some easy tips to light up your house this Diwali and welcome goddess Laxmi:

Amavasya (no moon) should be avoided while buying new furniture. Furniture should be made from timber of good and sacred trees like Sesame, Sal, Chandan (Sandal), Mango etc. While buying or making furniture, it should be noted so that there are no sharp edges. They send poison arrows or negative energy. Sharp edges should be rounded. Light colours or polish should be used on furniture. Black or dark colours absorb energy and reduce positive energy in the house.

-NafisaTasnem Habib

22 Buzz

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Birubala Rabha honoured with international award

ocial activist Birubala Rabha was awarded the Women’s World Summit Foundation (WWSF) prize for women’s creativity in rural life for the year 2018 on Saturday, October 27. Birubala Rabha, known for her relentless battle against the evil practice of witch-hunting, has received numerous awards for her cause. The 69 year old has saved innumerable women from becoming victims of witch-hunting. Xavier’s Foundation, in association with Gauhati University, handed over a certificate to Rabha at a ceremony held at the Phanidhar Dutta Seminar Hall. Rabha also received a cash prize of US $1,000. The award has been instituted by WWSF-Women’s World Summit Foundation, Geneva, Switzerland. Speaking on the occasion Rabha said, “It is a very prestigious moment for me to receive this prize given by a UN organisation

in recognition of my decades-long crusade against witch-hunting and superstition, which I have fought even at the cost of my life

to save many people. It is indeed very sad that in this age of technological advancement, social evils like witch-hunting still exist in the country, especially in remote

areas.” “The main reasons for branding women as witches are lack of education and quality health services.

Education is the best tool to fight against this social menace,” she said, appealing to the people of Assam not to go to quacks or deodhanis as they are not doctors. n

Assam bags 45 golds in NE Olympic Games

ssam ranked second in the 1st North East Olympic Games which concluded at Imphal on Sunday. Host Manipur bagged the first place. The five-day competition got underway on October 24 and had altogether 12 disciplines. Assam participated in all of them. Manipur dominated the Games and altogether collected 157 medals in the competition which included 79 gold, 47 silver and 31 bronze medals. Following Manipur, Assam bagged 138 medals including 45 golds. The team also won 52 silver and 41 bronze medals. Arunachal Pradesh finished third with 76 (1820-38) medals. Assam’s men’s soccer team displayed a splendid performance

and clinched gold medal stunning host Manipur in the final. Assam won the tie 3-0. In the women’s section, Assam finished runnersup losing the final to Manipur. However, it was the

state’s athletes who gave the best performance in the championships. They altogether won 30 medals out of which 15 were gold. The second best performance came from the Wushu team which won 29 medals. Archery (15medals) and Taekwondo (15 medals) also hogged the limelight in the competition. n

2nd Arun Sarma lecture to be Guwahati student to delivered at Vivekananda Kendra represent India in Spain in chess championship

he 2nd Annual Arun Sarma Memorial Lecture will be delivered by noted theatre director Dr Anuradha Kapur at 6 pm on November 3 at the Vivekananda Kendra, Uzan Bazar. The Arun Sarma Memorial Lecture is held annually on the November 3 on the birth anniversary of noted litterateur, Late Arun Sarma. It is organised by the Arun Sarma Theatre and Remembrance Trust (ASTART), an organisation formed in 2017 to nurture the cause of good theatre and creative works. This year, the topic for the lecture is “What’s new about 21st cen-

tury theatre?” and it’ll be followed by a short play titled ‘Punor Jonor

loi Tejimolaai’ to be performed in solo by Jolly Laskar. The play, di-

rected by Anupjyoti Choudhury, is based on a story by Monalisa Saikia and produced by New Art Players. Additionally, the function will include poetry recitation by Assamese actors, Zerifa Wahid and Kopil Bora. Dr Kapur, who is a recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for theatre direction, is a former director of the National School of Drama. In her career spanning five decades as both a pioneering theatre director and an academic, Dr Kapur has been a teacher and mentor to some of the biggest names in theatre, including many from Assam. n

uwahati student Mrinmoy Rajkhowa will represent India in an upcoming international chess championship. A class three student of Sudershan Public School

organised from November 3 to 16. Rajkhowa had bagged the third position in the National Under-7 Chess Championship held last year. He had also represented India in the FIDE Asian

Guwahati, Rajkhowa is set take part in the FIDE World Cadet Chess Championship – 2018 (in the under-8 boys’ category) to be held in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The championship will be

Cadet Chess Championship – 2018 (Under-8 boys’ category) held at Thailand this year. The Guwahati student is undergoing training at Assam Chess Club for the last three years. n

NE Zonal Science Drama Fest held in city

ortheast Zonal Science Drama Festival was held at the Regional Science Centre at Khanapara, Guwahati on October 26. In the keenly contested competition, the team of Dergaon Girls’ HS School was adjudged the best team in the festival and was selected to represent northeast at the national-level festival to be held on January 10 next in New Delhi. The drama titled “Pakhir Kakolit Susubhita Dharani” written by Sanjoy Kumar Hazarika and directed by Pankaj Rajkhowa was declared the best team and Sanjoy Kumar Hazarika was also given the Best Script Writer Award. The competition, organised by

Guwahati Regional Science Centre, which is a branch of the National Council of Science Museums under the Union Ministry of Culture, to inculcate scientific

temperament, was participated in by seven teams representing Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. n

Events

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018

Event: No. 1 Yaar Jam ft. Shaan Date: October 28, Sunday Venue: Sarusajai Stadium

November 3, Saturday Bollywood singing sensation Shaan performed in Guwahati recently. Known for his tracks that evoke memories of friendship, Shaan got millennials singing and dancing with popular numbers like ‘Behti Hawa Sa tha wo’ and ‘It’s the Time to Disco’. McDowell’s No.1 Soda, in association with RED LIVE, brought the singing sensation Shaan to the cities of Assam. Setting a celebratory mood before the much awaited Diwali, the artist performed for the No. 1 Yaari Jam concert in a 3-city tour that began on 24th October with Dibrugarh, 26th October in Tejpur and ended with a bang on 28th of October in Guwahati.

Bollywood & Commercial Music Night The Underdoggs 9PM onwards November 3, Saturday Hot Cue Hustle ft. U-Gain NYX Lounge and Deck 7PM onwards November 3, Saturday Social Shanivar ft. DJ Evan The Socialite 8PM onwards November 3, Saturday Club Night ft. DJ James Retro Town 8PM onwards

Event: Halloween Night ft. DJ Rik and DJ Blame Date: October 28, Sunday Venue: Dunkin Oza

November 3, Saturday Club Nights ft. DJ Ruddha Xtreme Sports Bar & Grill 8PM onwards November 3, Saturday Spectra Club Night

Event: Unplugged Night ft. Parwaz Date: October 21, Sunday Venue: The Socialite

Dicey’s Garden 8PM onwards November 4, Sunday Sunday’s Gig ft. Bond Urban Mantra 7PM onwards November 4, Sunday Good Vibes Sunday ft. DJ

Event: Ladies Night Date:October 25, Thursday Venue: Retro Town

Event: Karsh Kale Tabla DJ Set Date: October 27, Saturday Venue: Terra Mayaa

James Retro Town 8PM onwards

24 Catching Up

G PLUS | NOV 03 - Nov 09, 2018