India Empire April 2015

CONTENTS 20

20

APRIL 2015

06

AT RISK A profile of oft-targeted communities in U.S.A.

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06

VOTE BANK The significant Indian vote bank in the U.K.

12

10

16

CARIBBEAN DIARY An Indian account from Trinidad and Tobago

40

12

16

INDIANS IN EAST AFRICA Entrepreneurial history

CHHOTA BHARAT Deepening Indo-Mauritian ties

30

40

GROWING INFLUENCE The rise of the Indo-American community

34

JON SEN Forgotten Indian WWI hero

30 GOOD DOCTOR How Sanjay Khurana rescued Harrison Ford

Cover Story—UK eLeCtIoNS

I

By Kul Bhushan and Shamlal Puri

“

6

f you could pick one politician apart from yourself to win, who would it be and why?” asked Reema, a ten-year-old Indian origin girl from Salford, Greater Manchester to the British Prime Minister David Cameron.

He failed to come up with an answer saying, “I am afraid it is too difficult to say I would like someone else to win other than me or I wouldn’t be here, and I am quite keen on winning.”

But the results for the general elections on 7 May could be different. Instead of the traditional two political parties – Conservatives and Labour – at least four main parties are contesting. Interestingly, the vote of the three-million Indian diaspora has become crucial. In fact, the minority voters are a hefty six million. No wonder all parties are trying to woo them.

The Indian diaspora form 5 per cent of the total population and their votes can make a difference between winning and losing in some strong Asian strong-holds in the country.

Traditionally, Labour has enjoyed the vehement support of the Asian community – Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis - but this plummeted in the last election because of failures this party’s marked failures. Largely prosperous and upward mobile, Asian voters turned up in big numbers to support the Conservatives led by David Cameron and the Liberal Democrats by Nick Clegg in the last election, shaking Labour’s traditional stranglehold on Asian voters.

Though only 16 per cent ethnic minority voters balloted for the Conservatives and 18 per cent for Lib-Dems, it still shook the Labour Party.

The pattern among Britain’s Indian voters shows a very clear and consistent support for Labour much more than their white counterparts but in the long run, the new generations of Asians will be losing their traditional support for Labour.

The 2010 election showed that an overwhelming 74 per cent Muslims supported Labour followed by 73 per cent Sikhs, 51 per cent Hindus and 39 per cent East African Asians whereas only 31 per cent whites supported this Party.

india empire | april 2015

This gives weight to the argument that a section of East African Asians – Hindus and Sikhs – fed up with the failures of the Labour Party, voted for the Conservatives and the Lib-Dems in the 2010 polls. This year, however, the United Kingdom Independent Party (UKIP) has waded into the fray. This party is perceived to be anti-immigration has gained popularity with the whites but is less endeared by the Asians and ethnic minorities.

This four-way fight is bound to split the vote between Labour, Conservatives, the Lib-Dems and UKIP. Both Labour and the Conservatives can draw comfort from the fact that Asians will largely choose between them.

UKIP, the right-wing populist party led by Nigel Farage did

well in the last Local Government elections but Farage’s party spits toxic immigration venom on the multi-ethnic society. It relies heavily on disgruntled white voters fed up of the immigration policies of the heavy-weights and constant bickering on the future of Britain’s position in the EU. A growing number of Indian origin MPs in the current British Parliament include the longest serving Keith Vaz, Alok Sharma, Paul Uppal, Priti Patel, Seema Malhotra, Shailesh Vara, Valerie Vaz and Virendra Sharma.

Recent opinion polls show that the Conservatives and Labour are neck to neck and the election result could be a cliff-hanger. There are 160 marginal seats in the UK where the Asian and other ethnic minority vote could decide who april 2015 | india empire

7

Cover Story—UK eLeCtIoNS

Top British leaders including Prime Minister David Cameron have come to understand the importance of British Indian votes

is in power. But dissatisfied with what they perceive as ‘economic failures’ and austerity measures by David Cameron, the pendulum could swing back in favour of Labour. The much-anticipated pro-Labour swing among Asian voters may consequently spell winning marginal seats for Ed Miliband, the Labour leader.

A study by Operation Black Vote suggests that there will be 70 per cent more seats then there were in 2010 where Asian and Black voters could decide the outcome on 7 May. The Conservatives, in the run-up to the 2015 elections deliberately displayed visual enthusiasm for Diwali parties and other Asian celebrations with photographs. This is because many Asians see the Conservatives less favourable to them and other ethnic minorities. A London shopkeeper Sailesh Patel is in no doubt that his family will go the way his parents did for many years – vote for Labour.

But Labour has racked up a storm by pledging that if it wins it will tighten the noose on tax evaders. It will also scrap non-domiciled status system under which those with permanent homes abroad do not have to pay UK tax on their overseas earnings. Only their UK earnings are taxed.

Foreign billionaires who have settled here, however, pay a token £30,000 a year to the government.

If Labour wins the election, it wants to scrap this rule and thus raise hundreds of millions of Pounds for the Treasury. Historically, the notion of non-domiciled status for tax purposes was introduced by Lord William Pitt the Younger in 1799. This has gone largely unquestioned ever since. “We don’t compete in the world by offering tax advantages to a few that we don’t give to all our citizens and businesses,” Mr. Miliband said.

“It is not fair on all those millions of working people and businesses who pay their share and play by the rules.

And it’s not fair on all the people who rely on our public services either,” he added.

Currently, over 116,000 ‘non-doms’ – mostly Arab and 8

india empire | april 2015

Russians – live in the UK who could face the same tax demands as the less wealthy Britons. Although Conservatives dismiss Labour’s pronouncements as just another silly prank; some observers say if they go ahead, non-dom foreign billionaires living in Britain could be forced to pay tax both on their UK and overseas incomes.

The list of non-dom Indians include Baron Bagri (Raj Bagri); Sudhir Choudhrie, Lakshmi Mittal and Curry King Sir Gulam Noon gave up his non-dom status to become assistant treasurer of the Labour Party and Lord (Swaraj) Paul gave up his non-dom status in 2010 to retain seat in the House of Lords. The new rule could make London a less attractive place for foreign businesses and there are whispers that some top names may shift their investments to countries with more friendly tax rules.

However, the middle-class voters are less interested in the abolition of non-dom status. They are more interested in what benefits those who come to power will give the electorate in their normal lives as they get ready to cast their votes. ❐

DIASPorA—WeSt INDIeS

Indian Diaspora is not a tribal group in Trinidad and Tobago

By Paras Ramoutar

W

hether we like it or not, Trinidad and Tobago is a multicultural and multi-religious society, and this must become the cornerstone for the full flowering of serious nationhood. The Indian Diaspora continues to engender spiritual reconstruction aimed at making reverence for life meaningful.

Spiritual reconstruction and a new attitude for the reverence for life must become the cornerstone on which to build a new society. We in Trinidad and Tobago must continue to celebrate in our multi-religious and multi-cultural society Eid, Divali, Christmas, Baptists, Easter and the other religious festivals and occasions at all times. We have to share and respect each other’s cultural strains.

Likewise, we seek similar or reciprocal courtesies.

Indian Arrival Day must not be viewed upon with scorn as a people whose socio-economic and cultural and religious backgrounds do not have origins from some celestial source. We are not a tribal people. It is an opportunity to encourage the participation of shared values. We must not be seen as turning our backs on the other segments of the nation, but rather we must converse with others to listen, to learn, to understand and to respect their experiences.

All peoples must work towards the adoption of a new citizenship, and we must take a very serious and positive role in this initiative. Despite the ethnic strains displayed in electoral campaigns, it is heart-warming to see the population of Trinidad and Tobago joining, participating, supporting or celebrating the many religious and cultural presentations like Carnival and Panorama.

This demonstrates that the philosophy of multiculturalism is evident in our nation, and it must be enhanced and supported at the highest levels to ensure racial harmony, peace and concord among the respective ethnic groups in the national citizenry. State subventions must be equally shared across the societal spectrum, rather than favouring one ethnic group over the other.

Trinidad and Tobago’s first Prime Minister Dr Eric Williams that there no Mother India or no Mother Africa, or no Mother Lebanon, there is only one Mother, and that Mother Trinidad and Tobago. With this statement on Independence Day, August 31, 1962 he set the tone and created the environment for the adoption of a multicultural state. How far, have we progressed in this matter is open for critical discussion and analysis, he said. Our civilisation is undergoing a severe crisis that requires the attention of all of us. We must take steps to overturn this trend. The Indian Diaspora will always answer to this notion of working towards national peace...something our politicians fail to pro10 india empire | april 2015

cure or to empower themselves, more so, the population.

This year, May 30, 2015 marks 170th Indian Arrival Day in T&T when East Indians, approximately 148,000, from India were brought here by the then colonial government between1845 to 1917 to work on the sugar, cocoa and coconut plantations.

We have to build a new consciousness, a new aura of confidence so that a new humanity will emerge. The Indian Diaspora must endure this portfolio not only for itself, but must set the pace and ignite another serious paradigm, and work assiduously towards a new humanity which will uphold and maintain ethical, spiritual and moral values. Let Indian Arrival Day become just not another day in our calendar. It has deep significance in world history and world thought.

There should be syllabi in all academic institutions from primary and tertiary levels about the arrival of East Indians, Africans, Chinese, European and Portuguese in our land. Lack of such an undertaking will set each group apart, instead of knitting them

towards the evolution of a T&T society.

We have founded a nation, but we are yet to construct a society where everyone would feel loved, respected, and become major functionaries in all aspects of corporate, and in the process of governance and service.

We have much to celebrate about. But, we have much more to do to ensure that the genres of our cultural strengths are not wished away by the stroke of one man’s penmanship.

The nation-state of Trinidad and Tobago is strong because of the East Indian intervention then, now and in the future.

Carl Jasper, the existentialist philosopher, writes on history: “The apprehension of history as a whole leads beyond history.

The unity of history is itself no longer history. To grasp this unity means to pass above and beyond history into the matrix of this unity, through that unity which enable history to become a whole… We do not live in the knowledge of history, in so far, however, as we live by unity, we live supra historically in history”. ❐ april 2015 | india empire

11

DIASPorA—eASt AFrICA

Asians in Tanzania: Saboteurs or Saviors?

In its heyday, Tanzania had more than 150,000 Asians but their numbers dwindled due to mass emigration. In 1994 there were 50,000 in the Tanzania mainland and 4,000 in Zanzibar. Today, Tanzania has around 40,000 Asians

I

ndian traders visited the spice island of Zanzibar, now part of Tanzania, as far back as 1st Century BC. In the 1890s, they migrated to East Africa, sailing in dhows, establishing themselves as a very hardworking, honest, religious and skilled community of traders. Zanzibar’s most famous visitor was Mahatma Gandhi, who stayed on the island en-route from South Africa, and for a long time, the Rupee was Zanzibar’s currency. The British originally brought Indians to East Africa to build railroads between Mombasa, Kenya and Kampala, Uganda. A majority returned home on completion of the railway while thousands settled in Kenya. They moved to the neighboring Tanganyika Territory in search of opportunities and set up Dukas (shops in Swahili) and were known as ‘Dukawallas’. While discriminating against the indigenous Africans, British colonialists allowed Asians to establish a specific caste tier system, their own education system, temples and social centres.

When Tanganyika became independent on 9 December 1961 Asians with British Protectorate passports were given a choice of acquiring Tanzanian nationality. The majority became citizens while those who declined went to India or to the UK. For decades Indians successfully built a commercial base throughout Tanzania giving them top positions on the national economic map for their business acumen.

Although the Indian diaspora has been an integral part of Tanzania for decades, social problems have persisted. They live in their own communities separated from the local society, triggering resentment and mistrust among indigenous Tanzanians. In its heyday, Tanzania had more than 150,000 Asians but their numbers dwindled due to mass emigration. In 1994 there were 50,000 in Tanzania mainland and 4,000 in Zanzibar. Today, Tanzania has around 40,000 comprising communities ranging from Hindus, Sunni Muslims, Shia Ithnasheris, Bohras, Sikhs, Jains, Christians and Zoroastrians making an in-

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triguing diversity in this nation of 44.6 million. Though Indians represent less than 0.2% of Tanzania’s population, they control 75% of the business. Energetic and utterly business-oriented, with a huge network of contacts, their contribution to Tanzania’s development is unparalleled, making them the most admired and rich people of the African sub-continent.

Apart from their contribution to Tanzania’s economic and social development, Asians have even participated in advancing local aspirations for independence. The names of Tanzania’s Asians ring out like a roll call of millionaires who have helped to put the country on the world map of economic successes. Businessman Mohammed Dewji is the first Asian in modern-day Tanzania to be featured on the cover of the July 2013 issue of the prestigious Forbes magazine with a headline “100 Hours a Week; $85 million a year.”Dewji, popularly known as ‘Mo’ is a businessman, philanthropist and politician who has built his family-run business in Tanzania from a mere $30 million to $1.1 billion in 12 years. Mo said that when he joined Mohammed Enterprise Tanzania (METL) in 1999, its annual revenue stood at US$26 million. With a projected $1 billion turnover in 2013, METL employs 24,000 people - 5% of Tanzania’s formal employment sector - in a corporation involved in trading, manufacturing, agriculture, financial services, real estate, distribution and telecommunications. METL’s revenue contributes just over 3% of Tanzania’s GDP. “In agriculture, METL is the largest landowner in Tanzania with over 600,000 hectares to its name. In textiles, we are the largest textile manufacturers in sub-Saharan Africa,” he said. The illustrious Karimjee family has lived in Tanzania for 195 years and are pioneers of the Asian community. In 1818 Jivanjee Buddhabhoy, the son of Buddhabhoy Noormuhammed, a small scale hardware merchant, from Mandvi in Kutch, arrived in Zanzibar and set up a small trading firm which was to become one of the largest conglomerates in East Africa. Mr Buddhabhoy gave his business to his three sons - Pirbhoy, Karimjee and Esmailjee. The brothers sep-

ISKCON Dar Es Salaam Rath Yatra Festival

arated and in 1861 Karimjee established his own enterprise exporting commodities including ivory, copra, groundnuts, cereals, beeswax and cloves from Zanzibar and the East African mainland to India. The business was later handed over to his three grandsons who managed it very successfully. By the time Karimjee died in 1898, the company had a presence in Europe.Foundations for a massive expansion were laid after the company moved from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam in 1943.Aside from business, the family also built and donated community schools, gymkhanas, medical facilities for the poor. Its philanthropy and community service was recognized when the British Government bestowed knighthoods on Yusufali and Tayabali.Yusufali’s son Abdulkarim was the Mayor of Dar es Salaam and speaker of the Tanzanian Parliament. Many of the family’s properties were expropriated in post-revolution Zanzibar and during Tanzania’s nationalisation. Their business empire saw tough times between 1964 and 1990 but their fortunes have bounced back with increasing dividends. Today, Hatim Karimjee, the descendent of this family, holds the reins of the business empire which continues to grow. He is also the past District Governor of the Rotary Club at Oyster Bay, an organisation that is known for its charity work. The list of this renowned family’s charitable deeds is long and impressive; something that even President Jakaya Kikwete noted when he launched Hatim Karimjee’s book, The Karimjee Jivanjee Family - Merchant Princes of East Africa.The Karimjee Jivanjee family reflects triumph over hardship of the Tanzanian Asians in general. They helped transform a poor region into today’s East Africa.The pioneering Late Keshavji Jethabhai Chande left Gujarat, first setting foot in Kenya in the early 1920s and quickly moved to Tanzania where he

owned a shop selling consumer goods and fuel in Bukene village. The family later established a rice and maize flour milling and oil crushing business. His son Jayantilal Keshavji Chande (Andy or JK) took over the family business in his 20s and has been active in social, political and business leader for half a century. He held important positions as a member of the Governor’s Executive Council (Cabinet) and the National Assembly until independence. The then Prime Minister Julius Nyerere offered him an electoral constituency but he turned it down to concentrate on the family business.The family is among the most important architects in developing Tanzania’s milling trade. Their business, Chande Industries, was nationalised in 1967 by President Nyerere under the Arusha Declaration when thousands of Asian properties and businesses were expropriated. Smarting from their losses many Asians left Tanzania, JK ‘Andy’ Chande stayed on without any feelings of rancour. The Chande family’s private sector business and eight similar firms were turned into a Government parastatal, National Milling Corporation (NMC).Nyerere appointed him CEO and General Manager of NMC because of his expertise and knowledge. He worked full time for 35 years and established himself as a shrewd businessman and a highly capable manager.

JK has been the director 25 companies spanning the whole spectrum of national life from banking to agriculture. He was also involved with Government corporations - Tanzania Tourist Corporation and East African Harbours Corporation. He held many prestigious positions in Tanzania and internationally, including London-based Commonwealth bodies. He also served deprived Tanzanians through voluntary and charitable sectors.

— To be continued april 2015 | india empire 13

DIASPorA—eASt AFrICA

Kenyan Indian Diaspora Delighted with Obama’s Kenya Safari

By Kul Bhushan

The Kenyan Indian Diaspora is delighted with President Barack Obama’s visit to Kenya in July 2015. An estimated half a million in Britain, USA, Canada, Australia and other countries, the ex-Kenya Indians have a very emotional connect with the land of their birth or their fathers they left in waves after Kenya’s independence.

Like Obama, they visit Kenya from time to time to catch up with their friends and relatives and observe how the country is getting along. And this is exactly what Obama will do when he re-visits the land of his father on his third visit. But this is the first one as the President of the United States, the world’s most powerful nation.

For all Kenyans this is a matter of unlimited pride because Obama did not visit Kenya for seven years while he was in the White House. In fact, he purposely avoided Kenya during his previous visit to Africa. Now Kenya has overcome the stigma of its President Uhuru Kenyatta charges of genocide in the international court and Obama has no major election to worry about in the US, thus the visit.

Similarly, after settling down in their new home, 14 india empire | april 2015

Kenyan Indians crave about the good life they left behind: the ‘eternal spring’ climate of the Kenya Highlands, the easy incomes, the Indian foodstuffs and, above all, the efficient and robust domestic help they had all their lives.

When the Kenyan Indian housewife faces the mountain of dinner dishes in the middle of harsh winter in the West, she cries out for her domestic help. When the Kenya Indian is holed up in his home during a wet weekend, he yearns for his former land of sunshine almost throughout the year. Other equally powerful experiences and memories pull her or him back to Kenya.

And perhaps it is the same with Obama. He has visited Kenya three times, the last trip as a Senator. After all, he has his extended family, including a half-brother and siblings, among others, still living in Kenya and he would like to visit Alego, the village in Nyanza province on the shores of Lake Victoria, his ancestral home, very much like Kenyan Indians who have settled abroad and come to look at their former homes with new owners to see how they have maintained or re-developed them.

The highest number of Kenyan Indians is in the UK where they have set up their community organisations to interact with each other. Curiously, they are not very comfortable with Indians from India! Their basic command of English language is better than Indians. Their mother tongue has a good sprinkling of Swahili words which the Indians do not understand. They instantly bond with each other with their Swahili greeting, ‘Jambo’. It’s the same tale in USA, Canada or Australia or other countries.

Of course, Obama knows more than a smattering of Swahili and will make full use during his formal speeches at the international conference he will inaugurate and during bilateral talks on human rights and terrorism.

An editorial in Kenya’s largest newspaper, The Nation, termed this visit of immense significance to Kenya.

“Kenya has since independence five decades ago been a close ally of the United States, but for some reason no sitting American president has ever visited this country.

This will, therefore, be an occasion to affirm the cordial ties and explore new avenues of cooperation. For many Kenyans, the fact that President Obama’s father was a Kenyan makes the visit some sort of homecoming.”

It’s the same homecoming of sorts for visiting Kenyan Indians who will take great pride in discussing this presidential safari. ❐

DIASPorA—SoUtHerN INDIAN oCeAN

BIndIng IndIA

And MAurITIuS

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ndia in March further cemented its ties with Mauritius with the commissioning of an Indiabuilt coast guard patrol vessel, a day after inking five agreements and announcing a USD 500 million line of credit, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi—stressing the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean region—pressed for a strong grouping of the region’s nations.

Mr Narendra Modi, who arrived from Seychelles on March 11, 2015, is the first Indian prime minister to visit three Indian Ocean Region countries at one go. He travelled to key neighbour Sri Lanka on March 13, 2015. His five-day three-nation visit came amid China’s moves to increase its footprint in the key region, through which a large chunk of the world trade, including in oil, passes.

Mr Modi also strongly emphasised upon the close people-links between the two countries by his visit to the Ganga Talao temple, where he offered oblations at the Shiva temple. He also visited the Aapravasi Ghat where the Indian indentured labourers had arrived 100 years ago and delivered the talk at a civic reception at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute. He praised the contributions of the Indian-origin people who form 70 percent of the country’s population.

In his speech at the National Assembly, Mr Modi said the destinies of both nations were “linked by the currents of the Indian Ocean”. Addressing the National Parliament of Mauritius, Mr Modi assured that both sides would work to avoid the “abuse” of the double taxation avoidance convention and that India will “do nothing to harm this vibrant sector of one of our closest strategic partners”. Both sides have been negotiating to amend the Indo-Mauritius tax treaty amid India’s apprehensions that it was being misused to route unaccounted money and evade taxes through round-tripping.

Round-tripping is usually referred to routing of domestic investments through Mauritius to take advantage of the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between the two countries. Mauritius is one of the top 16 india empire | april 2015

sources of foreign direct investments (FDI) into India.

Mr Modi also said that Mauritius has always maintained that there has been no concrete evidence of any such misuse and that it has strict checks and balances in place.

However, the uncertainties over the tax pact have adversely affected investment flows between the two nations.

On March 11, 2015, Mr Modi held talks with his Mauritian counterpart Anerood Jugnauth and both sides inked five agreements, including one to tap the rich marine resources of this Indian Ocean island nation. India also offered USD 500 million concessional Line of Credit to Mauritius for key infrastructure projects.

Among his numerous engagements on March 12, 2015 was the commissioning of the India-built patrol vessel, Coast Guard Ship Barracuda, the first such vessel to be exported by India. Mr Modi and Jugnauth participated in the event.

Mr Modi said the ship was a “symbol of our shared commitment to peace and security in Indian Ocean - our common maritime home”. He said that the Indian Ocean Region “is at the top of our policy priorities” and India seeks “a future for the Indian Ocean that lives up to the name of SAGAR - Security and Growth for All in the Region”. He also added “the time has come for a strong grouping around the Indian Ocean. We will pursue this with new vigour in the years ahead” -- remarks that could cause concern in China that has been gradually building its influence in the Indian Ocean Region over the years.

In a tacit reference to China, Mr Modi said, “We recognise that there are other nations around the world, with strong interests and stakes in the region. Our goal is to seek a climate of trust and transparency, respect for international maritime rules and norms by all countries, sensitivity to each other’s interests, peaceful resolution of maritime issues, and increase in maritime cooperation.” He visited the Aapravasi Ghat, an immigration depot through which the Indian indentured labourers entered Mauritius. He of-

The Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Sir Anerood Jugnauth at the One on One meeting, in Mauritius

Prime Minister Modi at Ganga Talao in Mauritius

Prime Minister Modi meeting the Speaker, Mrs Santi Bai Hanoomanjee in Mauritius

Prime Minister Modi at the Joint Commissioning of Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) Barracuda, at the Port Louis Harbour in Mauritius

The Chief Justice Mr Kheshoe Parsad Matadeen meeting Prime Minister Modi in Mauritius

april 2015 | india empire 17

DIASPorA—SoUtHerN INDIAN oCeAN

Prime Minister Modi addressing the National Assembly of Mauritius

PM Modi pays respect at Mauritius’ Aapravasi Ghat

The Leader of Opposition Mr Paul Brenger meeting Prime Minister Modi in Mauritius

Prime Minister Modi visiting the Aapravasi Ghat, at Port Louis, in Mauritius

fered prayers at the Ganga Talao, a Hindu pilgrimage site in the country. Mr Modi also made a strong connect with the diaspora, by stressing on their India links.

Speaking at a civic reception at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute, Mr Modi praised the contribution of Indian indentured labourers for taking Mauritius to new heights of development and progress by dint of their hard work. In an address, amid loud cheering by the crowd and chants of “Modi, Modi”, the Prime Minister said that when the world praises the development of Mauritius, the “credit comes to our (India’s) account.

The people who came here as indentured labourers, today they have taken the place to new heights through their labour and suffering, but the credit comes to our account, when people ask about the development in Mauritius, as all were from India,” Mr Modi said to loud clapping.

Referring to climate change, Mr Modi said small islands were worried about climate change, of being drowned in rising oceans in the years to come. He said that the island countries like Mauritius can give a message to the world on climate change. On the evening of March 12, 2015, he attended the National Day celebrations. He also met opposition leader Mr Paul Berenger. ❐

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in arch paid homage to Indian indentured labourers during his visit to the Aapravasi Ghat, an immigration depot through which the ancestors of more than 70 percent of Mauritius’s current population arrived. Mr Modi paid homage to the “brave” Indian indentured labourers who arrived in Mauritius in batches from 1834 till the early 20th century.

“I am honoured to have the opportunity to pay homage to the brave Apravasis who left India’s shores nearly two centuries ago. Aapravasi Ghat is an eloquent tribute to the indomitable human spirit and also to the enduring links between our people,” Mr Modi wrote in the visitor’s book at the site. “It is our sacred duty to treasure and preserve this site,” he added.

Aapravasi Ghat is located on the bay of Trou Fanfaron, in the capital Port Louis. Immigrants arrived from India after a journey across the Indian Ocean that generally took eight to ten weeks. Half a million Indian indentured labourers crossed the steps of this immigration depot to work in plantations of the British Empire. Mauritius marked the 180th anniversary of the first arrival of Indian indentured labour at Aapravasi Ghat on November 2, 2014. It is now a World Heritage site.

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DIASPorA—NortH AMerICA

Communities at risk

S

ix US lawmakers along with leading advocacy groups have welcomed the inclusion of Sikh, Hindu, and Arab American communities in the Department of Justice’s hate crimes tracking effort. This is the final step in the long-fought effort to encourage the US federal government to finally begin tracking and quantifying hate crimes against these at-risk communities, the lawmakers said at an event on Capitol Hill on March 25, 2015. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently updated its hate crimes database and FBI training manual in order to start tracking hate crimes committed against these groups - that system is now fully

Friends and family members bring caskets into Oak Creek High School during funeral of six people killed in shootings at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin in August 2012

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operational.

Mr Ami Bera, the lone Indian-American member of the US House of Representatives, along with fellow House members Mr Joe Crowley, Mr Bill Pascrell, Mr Mike Honda, Ms Grace Meng and Mr John Garamendi attended the event. These lawmakers led a Congressional effort to encourage the Department of Justice and FBI to document hate crimes against Sikh, Hindu and Arab Americans.

They spearheaded numerous letters to the DOJ and FBI and introduced a Congressional resolution in the wake of the tragic August 2012 massacre in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, and submitting testimony urging action on hate crimes.

In 2011, two elderly Sikh Americans, Mr Gurmej Atwal

Mr Ami Bera

and Mr Surinder Singh, were shot and killed while out for a walk in Elk Grove, California, a part of Mr Bera’s constituency, in a suspected hate crime that is still unsolved. “Since the September 11 attacks, too many Americans, especially Sikh, Hindu and Arab-Americans, have been wrongfully subjected to hate crimes and discrimination, including the shooting of two Sikh Americans in my own city,” Mr Bera said. “Religious tolerance is a fundamental value of our nation and we must do everything we can to prevent these crimes motivated by bias against a victim’s religious beliefs,” he added.

“Until now, Anti-Sikh hate crimes were not recognized by the FBI,” said Rajdeep Singh, Director of Law and Policy at the Sikh Coalition. “Year after year, Sikh Americans were being targeted for harassment and violence because of their distinct identity. For the first time, the FBI now officially acknowledges that Sikhs are targeted for being Sikhs. While refinements are needed to the agency’s tracking system and training standards, we are making progress,” he said.

“The federal tracking of anti-Hindu, antiSikh, and anti-Arab hate crimes is an important, if long-overdue, development. Even as our com-

munity grows, Hindu Americans remain uniquely vulnerable to harassment, bullying, and violence,” said Mr Harsh Voruganti, Associate Director of Public Policy, Hindu American Foundation.

The updated FBI manual “marks a step towards ensuring accurate reporting of hate crimes committed against Sikhs, an important step that will ultimately aid the Sikh community as we continue to address the roots of anti-Sikh bias,” said Mr Jasjit Singh, executive director of the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF).

Update of FBI hate crimes training manual to include Arab, Hindu, and Sikh categories “is more important now than ever with the recent spike in hate violence targeting our communities,” said Ms Lakshmi Sridaran, Director of Policy and Advocacy, South Asian Americans Standing Together (SAALT). “Our work ahead will be to ensure our communities are informed of these critical updates and are able to build trust with law enforcement so that hate crimes targeting South Asians, Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, Middle Easterners, and Arabs are appropriately documented and prosecuted,” she said. ❐ april 2015 | india empire 21

DIASPorA—USA

Extolling Indo-American kids

By Arun Kumar and made discoveries that now could help keep our online accounts more secure.

“So in the future, if keystroke-based authentication keeps your siblings from breaking into your Facebook account or your Instagram account, you will know who to thank,” Mr Obama said amid laughter. “It will be Nikhil. Congratulations,” he added amid applause.

Ms Ruchi Pandya, 18, from San Jose, California, he noted “found a way to use a single drop of blood to test a person’s heart function, much like a person with diabetes tests their blood sugar.”

And “Anvita Gupta—where’s Anvita? There she is,” Mr President Barack Obama listens to a pitch by 14-year-old Nikhil Behari, who created a biometric security system that identifies unique users based on their typing styles. Behari Obama said amid applause, says his system—on display at the 2015 White House Science Fair—is 98 per cent accurate “used artificial intelligence and biochemistry to identify resident Barack Obama praised the work potential treatments for cancer, tuberculosis, Ebola. What of young Indian-Americans as he ex- she’s done is she’s developed an algorithm that could potenhorted budding American scientists to tially significantly speed up the process of finding drugs that “keep exploring...keep dreaming” and use might work against these diseases,” he said. the power of their ideas to change the “But Anvita’s algorithm has the potential of speeding world. “Keep asking why. Don’t settle for up pathways to discovering what drugs would work on what what you already know,” he said as he wel- diseases, and is consistent with some of the work that we comed young scientists and engineers from across the coun- announced around precision medicine that we are funding try to showcase their inventions, robots, and discoveries at at a significant pace here at the White House,” he said. Mr the 2015 White House Science Fair on March 23, 2015.

Obama pointed out that “like several of the young people “Never stop believing in the power of your ideas, your here, Anvita and Ruchi are first-generation Americans. imagination, your hard work to change the world,” said Mr Their parents came here, in part, so their kids could develop Obama after personally viewing 12 of the exhibits by more than their talents and make a difference in the world. And we’re 100 students from 30 states. “So Nikhil Behari is here from really glad they did,” he said.

Pennsylvania,” he said calling out the winner of a second place Earlier checking out the inventions in the State Dining award in Technology at the 2014 Broadcom MASTERS na- Room, the Red Room and the Blue Room, Mr Obama tional finals. “He’s a freshman—right?—in high school, inter- walked around to each table, chatted with the young invenested in how we can better protect ourselves against hackers tors about their inventions, and posed for photos. When Anand data thieves online. So scientists are already using biomet- vita Gupta, 17, of Scottsdale, Arizona, explained how she rics to prove that each of us walk in our own distinct ways. had used an algorithm to help identify possible new drugs to “And Nikhil wondered, what if we each type in a dis- treat Ebola, cancer and tuberculosis, Mr Obama turned to tinct ways? So he collected all kinds of data about how a the reporters, grinned and said, “I don’t know what you all person types—their speed, how often they pause, how have been doing. But this is what she has been doing.” much pressure they use; built a special keyboard to test it.

Inspired by the global energy crisis, Mr Sahil Doshi, 14, “And he proved that his hypothesis was correct—that even from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, designed an innovative carif somebody knows your password, they don’t necessarily bon-dioxide powered battery, reducing the environmental punch it in exactly the way you do. “And he asked why— effects of pollution. ❐

P

22 india empire | april 2015

INtervIeW: INDo-AMerICAN SCIeNtISt

InTErvIEw wITh Dr hArDArshAn sIngh vAlIA

“I am Passionately in love with my work” Dr. Hardarshan Singh Valia, a Coal Scientist has the distinction of the only Coal Scientist in the world to have received all the three awards offered by American Steel Industry related organizations. Dr. Valia has published 85 articles, contributed to 5 books (including Making, Shaping, and Treating of Steel), chaired 30 National/International conferences, taught 20 courses worldwide, authored two patents and consulted many industries around the world. After retiring as a Staff Scientist from ArcelorMittal started his own consulting firm Coal Science Inc. and also jointly owns Coal science Laboratory in Gary, Indiana. Dr. Valia received his Masters in Applied Geology from Nagpur University and Masters in Geology from Bryn Mawr College and Ph.D.in Geology from Boston University. He speaks to India Empire’s Assistant Editor, Misha Singh about his accomplishments How does it feel to be the only coal scientist in the world to be honoured with three prestigious awards?

Humbled to the core because I do realize the fact – as quoted by Guru Gobind Singh: Inhi Ki Kripa Se Saje Hum Hain (I am decorated because of Their Blessings) Mose Garib Karod Pade (Millions, poor like me, exist in the world) Their – in this context refers to Father, Mother, Teacher, and the Force within; My three articles, attached herewith, shed some light on who I am and give insight in to some of the reasons that keep me grounded!

You have received the Iron & Steel Society’s Joseph Becker Award, Joseph Kapitan Award and American Iron & Institute Medal. Which of the three is the most special to you?

Iron & Steel Society (now called AIST) Joseph Becker 24 india empire | april 2015

Dr Hardarshan Singh Valia

Award – Because the pioneers in my fields were awarded with this award. Dr. C. Otto, the inventor of Otto Coke Plants, and K.F.P. Still, the originator of by-product distillation from coke plants, whose pioneering work has been used extensively in the development of Indian Steel Industry.

Both received the award in 1965 and 1975 respectively.

Dr. Homer H. Lowry from U.S. Bureau of Mines, whose book “Chemistry of Coal Utilization,” is a Bible for all Coal Technologist and has been my guiding light through the corridors of Coal Science pathways. Dr Lowry had received award in 1970.

Dr. T. Miyazu, whose coal blend design diagram is used by every student of coke making, had received this award in 1983.

I had put them on pedestal because they helped nurture my professional dreams into reality. Hence, this award has a great humbling experience for me.

Where did you draw the inspiration to become a coal scientist?

I did my Primary and Middle school education in Chindwara, Madhya Pradesh. My father, as a train ticket collector, would go on his trips to Parasia (which is a part of the coal belt of M.P).

He would tell me stories about his interactions with coal people.

As a teenager, I had taken a train journey with him to Parasia and that experience resided in one corner of my mind. However, the mountains around Chindwara ignited the sparks of a love affair with Geology. During college years at Nagpur University, I opted for Ph.D. program on Kamptee Coal field. Soon afterward, I left for USA (September 1969) for higher studies.

You have worked with one of the largest steel and mining company, ArcelorMittal and after retiring started your own consulting firm, Coal Science Inc. and also jointly own Coal science Laboratory in Gary, Indiana. Tell us about your journey.

After getting Ph.D. in Geology from Boston University, I joined Inland Steel Company, East Chicago, IN, 1979, as an Engineer in the Research and Development Department. I worked in Iron Making Division doing research on coal carbonization. In an integrated Steel Plant, Coke is used in the production of Iron. Inland Steel was the first American Steel Company that Mr Mittal bought in 1998. I retired from Arcelor Mittal as Staff Scientist in 2002 and opened my own consultancy firm called Coal Science Inc. You have published 85 articles, contributed to 5 books, taught 20 courses worldwide and authored two patents. What has kept you going?

I am passionately in love with my work. My philosophy is that if you follow your passion, you achieve inner peace.

And that peace keeps you afloat of the storm around you.

That gradually affects others. Thereafter, all good things follow your path. (As Geeta says, “Do your deeds passionately without expectation of fruits!”).

You have presented a series of lectures in India with emphasis on production of diesel fuels from coals.

Where do you think India lacks and what can be the solution for the same?

I am a big proponent of Multi Purpose Coke Plant within a Steel Industry, whereby selectively extracting a portion of coke oven gas to produce ancillary products such as coke, , liquid fuel, methane gas, electricity, fertilizer, hydrogen and other products for Direct Reduced Iron (DRI), catering to the needs of the fluctuating market conditions. Some private steel companies are trying to address these issues. For example- JSPL plans to set up set up a Coal to Liquid Fuel plant that would produce Diesel, LPG and other products. Tata Steel is also planning a joint project with Sasol of South Africa for setting up a Coal to Liquid Fuel plant. Such projects should be highly encouraged in India. During my recent trip to India, I prepared a power point presentation entitled “Road Map for Indian Coal-Coke Supremacy”. With the presentation, I aimed at providing a road map to meet India’s growing demand for Coking Coal and Coke and ways to realize the motto “MAKE IN INDIA.” By the way, this power

Dr Hardarshan Singh Valia presenting his book entitled “Indiana Coals and the Steel Industry” to Indiana Senator Dan Coats

point presentation will also show with poetry, photos, and cartoons my own journey from the hills of Chindwara and flat plains of Nagpur to vastness of American landscape.

You in collaboration with Allen Ellis and other scientists from Purdue University, earned a patent entitled ‘Multipurpose Coke Plant for Synthetic Fuel Production.

This would not only help in the production of coke for the steel industry but can also produce diesel oil, methane gas, hydrogen, fertilizer and power. How do think this will help the industry and the America as a whole?

Considering the shortage of coking coals, fluctuations in market conditions for coke, implementation of stricter environmental compliance rules, and abundance of non-coking or poor coking coals (that are mostly used in power plants), a plant that uses high amounts of poor coking coals and produces multiple products based on market needs with high importance on environmental control will be the able to survive and compete in the global market. In USA, coal production is declining. Here, a continuous coke making technology operating in enclosed environment that utilizes extremely high amounts of lower rank coals and produces multiple products based on market needs is the right option.

It allows utilization of low rank coals that are simply burnt in power plants. Such an approach would help in revitalizing the industry, bringing jobs, and improving the economy.

You are called the Pride of the Indian Community, How does that make you feel?

I do not deserve that title. Every Indian immigrant, irrespective of their adopted countries, work hard in their profession and have excelled be it working in farms, hotels, hospitals, constructions, plants or offices. In their respective professions, they are admired, respected and are called pride of India by the mainstream community. Of course there will be some who may show racial discrimination, but they are in the minority. ❐ april 2015 | india empire 25

DIASPorA AUtHor

Bouncing back!

Mr Mohan K, an IT professional from North Carolina has strong roots to India.

He has moved and lived across three continents in five countries and visited dozens others. In a candid interview with India Empire’s Assitant Editor, Misha Singh, Mr Mohan K talked about his journey, experiences and his debut book “The Bounce! — A Story of love, loss and the life of a global Indian” This is your first book. What inspired you to write the book?

I have written and blogged extensively on technology and management topics, but this is my first fictional book. I had been reflecting on an incident, back in 2008 when we lost a healthy, bouncy child while on a Jet Airways flight from Brussels to Delhi. My wife and I were relocating back from Toronto with a five and half month old child when tragedy struck. The book is an attempt at redemption, especially as writing has been very cathartic for me.

By talking about my story, I am also hoping to provide some inspiration to others facing life’s challenges on bouncing back, as the title suggests.

This is a semi-autobiographical novel, what can the readers expect from the same?

Much of the story depicted in the novel is mine. I decided to write a semi-autobiographical novel since this format gave me a bit of artistic liberty to stretch my imagination while basing the outline on facts as I remembered them. A few accounts, and names have been fictionalized and I rely on the dialog style that a fiction can accommodate more than a biography.

What was your goal when you wrote the book—was it to just finish writing or getting it published and reaching out to the world?

My goal in writing “The Bounce!” was simple. I had a story that I thought must be told. It is also an attempt to show a human face to globalization and people in the dynamic global outsourcing industry who travel around the world.

How did you begin writing this book? What do you wish to convey with the book?

I began writing the book in 2012. After attempting to 26 india empire | april 2015

write it as a biography, I switched to a semi-autobiographical format earlier in 2015. There are a couple of key messages I feel I am conveying in the book.

Growing up in an Indian Air force officer’s family, I was used to hearing the adage “join the navy and see the world.”

This has perhaps been overshadowed by the reality “Join the Indian IT and see the world.” My journey is an example of living this adage, and wanted to share my life’s journey and the dynamic nature of outsourcing industry with readers.

The key message is about redemption. The theme of “The Bounce!” is all about the ability to bounce back, especially after unforeseen tragedies in life.

What authors do you like to read? Do any of them influence your writing?

I firmly believe in the adage “he, who reads more, writes more”.

My reading habits are eclectic and include fiction and nonfiction books on business and technology.

‘Elizabeth Gilbert’s cheerful narrative “Eat, Pray, Love” highlighting how she overcame her life’s challenge was an inspiration at the time in life when I needed one.

Please tell us something about you and your connect with India?

I grew up moving across India when my dad served in the Indian Air Force. After completing my masters from an Engineering college in Mysore, I joined a British software firm in Bengaluru. I worked with Infosys for nearly a decade and now live the Indian-American dream in North Carolina with my charming wife Sujatha and adorable kindergartener Vijay. My parents live in Bengaluru and my in-laws in Delhi and I try and make an annual trek back there with my family. The intent is also to ensure Vijay bonds with his grand❐ parents and cousins while retaining his Indian-ness.

DIASPorA—USA

Federal suit filed against Alabama cop

By Arun Kumar

Chirag Patel sits with his father Sureshbhai at their Madison home after the February incident involving Madison Police officer Eric Parker who slammed Sureshbhai to the ground, leaving him paralyzed

A

n Alabama police officer who assaulted an unarmed Indian grandfather while he was taking a morning walk in front of his son’s house in a Madison suburb has been indicted by a federal grand jury. Mr Eric Parker, the Madison police officer who slammed Mr Sureshbhai Patel, 57, to the ground in the February 6, 2015 incident leaving him partially paralysed, on March 27, 2015 was charged with a civil rights violation that carries up to 10 years in prison.

A federal grand jury indicted Mr Parker for “deprivation of rights under colour of law” that includes the constitutional right to be free from “unreasonable force,” according to US Attorney Joyce White Vance. “Police officers are sworn to uphold the law and protect the public,” said Mr Vance in a prepared statement. “The public must be able trust the police.”

Mr Parker, 26, also faces trial in Limestone County for misdemeanor assault, which carries up to one year in jail.

He has pleaded not guilty and the bench trial is set for April 29, 2015. Madison police Chief Larry Muncey last month recommended that Parker be fired. He is on administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal charges. “Mr Patel and his family are very pleased by the prompt and decisive action of US Attorney Joyce Vance and the federal grand jury,” Mr Patel’s attorney, Mr Hank Sherrod wrote in an email. “For the public to trust police officers, it needs to know officers will be held accountable, and the felony civil

Eric Parker

rights charges filed against Parker, unlike the misdemeanor assault charge being pursued in state court, more accurately reflect the seriousness of Parker’s conduct,” he said.

The February 6, 2015 incident occurred when Mr Parker and another officer arrived at the scene in response to a call around 8 a.m. about a suspicious person walking on Hardiman Place Lane. Mr Sureshbhai Patel, who does not speak English, had arrived in the US from his hometown Pij in Gujarat about a week earlier to help care for his 17-month-old grandson. His son, Mr Chirag Patel, an engineer for a government contractor, said his father, who had received permanent resident status liked to take a walk in the morning. Video from a dashboard camera shows Mr Parker and another officer confront Mr Patel. At one point, Mr Parker slams the 57-year-old Mr Patel to the ground.

Madison police later called paramedics. Mr Patel was left partly paralysed. He was transferred from Madison Hospital to Huntsville Hospital where he underwent spinal surgery.

Mr Patel has been in the care of Healthsouth Rehabilitation Center in Huntsville. Mr Sherrod on March 27, 2015 said “Mr Patel has made tremendous progress in his recovery. Recently, Mr Patel was able to walk a short distance on his own using a walker, an important milestone in his recovery. In the near future, Mr Patel expects to be released to the home of his son, Mr Chirag, where he will continue his therapy.” Mr Sherrod has also filed a federal suit against Mr Parker and against the City of Madison. The civil suit is on ❐ hold pending resolution of the criminal charges. april 2015 | india empire 27

DIASPorA—USA

Indo—American loses appeal in immigrant slavery case roc will actually be seized by the governAn Indian American woman, who ment is unclear as it is technically owned was convicted in 2013 of harbouring an by a corporation comprising Ms George illegal immigrant at her upstate New family members, with Ms Annie George York mansion for over five years and as a minority shareholder. The appellate subjecting her to slave-like conditions, ruling includes the detail that the George has lost an appeal to overturn the verdict. family paid USD 1.88 million in 2009 for Prosecutors alleged Ms Annie George, the mansion and four years later owed who is originally from Kerala, forced vicUSD 1.78 million on the property. tim Ms Valsamma Mathai, also a native During the trial officials testified Ms of Kerala, to work 17-hour days with no Mathai should have earned USD 317,144 time off or sick leave. Ms Mathai also alworking for Ms George but had received leged that she was forced to sleep in a only USD 21,000. Prosecutors also presqualid closet during what little time she sented tape—recorded phone calls bewasn’t working. tween Ms George and Ms Mathai’s son, A three-judge panel on the Second Ms Annie George recorded by the son, in which Ms George Circuit of the US Court of Appeals on March 4, 2015 also ruled the trial court judge was correct admitted knowing Ms Mathai was in the country illegally to rule that Ms George must forfeit Llenroc mansion to and instructing Ms Mathai not to discuss her status. Ms the federal government. Ms George’s attorneys had argued George was sentenced to home detention and probation that forfeiture was an excessive penalty, but the appeals in 2013. In her appeal, Ms George’s attorney argued the court found her interest in multimillion—dollar Llenroc, a trial judge made errors in instructions to the jury, evi30,000 square foot home overlooking the Mohawk River, dence was insufficient to prove the crime for which she was about USD 100,000, substantially less than the USD was convicted and the forfeiture order amounted to an excessive fine. The appeals panel rejected all aspects of 250,000 maximum fine.

Forfeiture is allowed by law in this case because Llen- the appeal, writing in its decision, “The evidence of Ms roc was where the crime took place for which George was George’s intent to prevent Ms Mathai’s detection by auconvicted, harbouring an illegal immigrant. Whether Llen- thorities was overwhelming.” ❐

28 india empire | april 2015

DIASPorA—USA

renu Khator to head Us education body

By Arun Kumar

Dr Renu Khator

Indian-American Ms Renu Khator has been elected chair of the Board of Directors of the American Council on Education (ACE), the major coordinating body for US colleges and universities. Uttar Pradesh born Ms Khator, University of Houston President and System Chancellor since 2008, became board chair during ACE’s 97th Annual Meeting in Washington, DC on March 16, 2015.

Earning a bachelor’s degree at the University of Kanpur, she received her master’s and PhD in political science from Purdue University, Indiana. She succeeds Mr James H. Mullen, Junior President of Allegheny College, Pennsylvania, and will serve for one year. Before becoming ACE Board chair, Ms Khator served as vice chair.

“It will be a privilege to serve as chair of the American Council on Education during a period of major challenges and enormous opportunities for higher education. I look forward to working with my colleagues on key issues such as college completion, global competitiveness and innovation,” Ms Khator said.

The UH System’s first woman chancellor and the first Indian immigrant to head a comprehensive research university in the US, Ms Khator assumed her post in January 2008. As chancellor, Ms Khator oversees a system that serves nearly 70,000 students, has an annual budget that exceeds USD 1.5 billion and has a USD 3.8 billion-plus economic impact on the Greater Houston area each year. As president, she is the chief executive officer of the largest and oldest of the four UH System universities.

During her tenure, UH has experienced record-breaking research funding, enrolment and private support. In 2011, UH became a Tier One university, with the Carnegie Foundation elevating it into the top category of research universities. A noted scholar in the field of global environmental policy, Ms Khator has published numerous books and articles on the subject. Prior to her appointment, she was provost and Senior Vice President at the University of South Florida, capping a 22-year career at that institution. ❐ april 2015 | india empire 29

DIASPorA—USA

FlyIng Wreck Mr Harrison Ford

I

Dr Sanjay Khurana

ndian-American spine surgeon Dr Sanjay Khurana was playing golf on March 5, 2015 when a single-engine plane crashed on the course. The pilot was none other than famous Hollywood actor Harrison Ford. Dr Khurana was among the first to pull out the injured star from the wreckage.

When Dr Khurana saw the plane crash on the course, next to Santa Monica Airport, he followed his first instinct to rush to the plane to ensure the pilot was safe. At the time, Dr Khurana was golfing on the 7th hole of the Penmar Golf Course. He saw Ford’s plane hit a tree before nose-diving to the ground. He dropped his clubs and ran to the crash site, seeing “a passenger in the rear seat slumped over in distress belted in.” “He was stunned a bit. He was moaning and in pain.” Dr Khurana said that he quickly recognised the famous pilot. He added, “It was obvious by his face, it was Harrison Ford. I’m old enough, or young enough, to have watched all his ‘Star Wars’ films. So, it was obvious.”

Dr Khurana, who was interviewed by numerous TV channels in Los Angeles, said aside from worrying about Ford’s injuries from the impact, he saw fuel leaking out of the World War II-era plane. He and other golfers pulled Ford from the wreckage. Others threw dirt on the fuel so it wouldn’t catch fire. “We wanted to get him out safely and 30 india empire | april 2015

THE SANTA MONICA CRASH SITE

with the fuel leaking out, I motioned to some of the other folks at the golf course to put dirt on the fuel so it wouldn’t combust. I just wanted to get him out safely so that the situation wouldn’t erupt into a fire,” Dr Khurana said.

Dr Khurana said though bleeding heavily, Ford was able to speak and move despite his injuries. Ford is best known for his roles in the “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones”. Ford is expected to make a full recovery. In a statement released on the night of March 6, 2015, the movie star’s representa-

tive said while he was “banged up,” his injuries were not life-threatening. His publicist, Ms Ina Treciokas, described the actor’s injuries as non-life-threatening. The 72-year-old actor reported engine trouble shortly after taking off from Santa Monica Municipal Airport and asked for an immediate return to the airport, National Transportation Safety Board investigator Mr Patrick Jones said. The tower then reported his aircraft came up short of the runway, according to air traffic controller transmissions from LiveATC.net.

The vintage WW-II airplane that Ford was piloting clipped a tree before crashing, Jones said.

Hours after the crash, Dr Khurana remained surprised by what occurred. “You don’t go golfing expecting to see an airplane crash and to help extract someone and realise it’s someone you know from the movies, right? It’s fairly bizarre,” he said. “But as a surgeon, I’ve been practicing for almost over a decade now, you deal with urgent situations.

So you have to do your best for someone in distress.” ❐ april 2015 | india empire 31

DIASPorA NeWS IN BrIeF

Indians shine at Asian Business Awards Investor Mr Cyrus Vandrevala and hotelier Mr Jasminder Singh were the prominent winners at an Asian Business Awards ceremony in London. Vandrevala, formerly a resident of Mumbai and co-founder of investment company Intrepid Capital Partners (ICP), received the Global Investor of the Year Award at the ceremony on March 27, 2015.

ICP recently announced INR 1,000 crore facility for the housing and infrastructure sectors in western India. The company promises to raise the lending to INR 5,000 crore in the due course. A spokesman for ICP said, “We are honoured Mr Vandrevala has been recognised for his significant contribution as an investor.” Mr Singh is an Indian origin emigrant from East Africa and now chairman of the Radission Edwardian Group of hotels in Britain. Radisson Edwardian was named the Asian Business of the Year Award.

Both Singh and Vandrevala figured among the billionaires in the first ever Global India Rich List compiled by London’s Raymedia earlier this month. A press release from the organisers of the event quoted G.P. Hinduja of the Hinduja Group as saying his company would be entering the defence production in India. This follows the present NDA government permitting 49 percent foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector. The Hindujas own Ashok Leyland and Gulf Oil, among other assets, in India. Earlier in March, the

Mr Jasminder Singh

Mr Cyrus Vandrevala

Hinduja brothers were featured as the wealthiest Indians in the Global India Rich List.

Present in the award function was British Home Minister Theresa May who was recently named as one of three potential successors to him, if and after he serves a second term in office by the British Prime Minister David Cameron.

Mr May said, “Today we celebrate some of the most successful Asians in the UK, many of whom started with very little money and a wealth of ideas and stamina and through sheer hard work made their way up the career ladder to be where they are today.”

Indo—American honoured with PAESMEM An Indian-American and a Sri viduals and organizations to recognize Lankan-origin scientist and teacher are the crucial role that mentoring plays in among fourteen individuals and one orthe academic and personal development ganization named winners of the Presof students studying science and engiidential Award for Excellence in neering-particularly those who belong Science, Mathematics, and Engineering to groups that are underrepresented in Mentoring (PAESMEM). these fields. In addition to being honAndhra University graduate Mr oured at the White House, recipients reMurty S. Kambhampati, a professor of ceive awards of USD 10,000 from the biology at Southern University at New National Science Foundation. The menOrleans, and Sri Lankan origin Mr tors and organizations announced repTilak Ratnanather, an associate profesresent the winners for 2012 and 2013. sor in the biomedical engineering deMr Kambhampati holds a PhD from partment of the Johns Hopkins Jackson State University in EnvironUniversity, Maryland will receive their mental Science and a PhD from Andhra awards at a White House ceremony University, India in Ecology. Over the later in 2015. “These educators are years, he established excellent collaborahelping to cultivate America’s future tions with several institutions to place scientists, engineers and mathematistudents for summer internships and cians,” President Barack Obama said ecological field trips. He is an active reMr Murty S. Kambhampati announcing the names of the award search mentor for undergraduates and is winners on March 27, 2015. “They open new worlds to their Southern University at New Orleans’s Beta Kappa Chi/Nastudents, and give them the encouragement they need to tional Institute of Science chapters’ sponsor. He has won sevlearn, discover and innovate. That’s transforming those stu- eral awards for his work as a mentor, including the National dents’ futures, and our nation’s future, too,” he said.

Role Model Faculty Award from Minority Access, Inc., in 2008.

The PAESMEM is awarded by the White House to indi—AK 32 india empire | april 2015

DIASPorA NeWS IN BrIeF

Atul Keshap named US envoy to Sri Lanka, Maldives After Mr Richard Rahul Verma, who is the US ambassador to India, yet another Indian American has been named the country’s envoy by President Barack Obama. Mr Atul Keshap, a senior Indian-American Foreign Service official, has been named as ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

“I am honoured that these talented individuals have decided to serve our country. They bring their years of experience and expertise to this administration, and I look forward to working with them,” he said announcing Mr Keshap’s appointment with three others. Currently as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, a position he has held since 2013, Mr Keshap assists Ms Nisha Desai Biswal, the first Indian-American to lead the bureau.

Now with Mr Keshap’s appointments, Indian Americans would be serving as US envoys in three of eight SAARC nations. Another Indian American, Mr Puneet Talwar as assistant secretary for political-military affairs, serves as a bridge between the State and Defence departments. And Mr Arun Madhavan Kumar as assistant secretary of commerce and director general of the US and Foreign Commercial Service is charged with boosting US trade abroad. Mr Keshap previously served at the

Mr Atul Keshap

State Department as a US Senior Official for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs from 2012 to 2013. From 2010 to 2012, he was the Director for India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.

—AK

Indian Director for London’s Nehru Centre Poet-diplomat Mr Abhay K. has been appointed the new director of the Nehru Centre, London. He will succeed current director Ms Sangeeta Bahadur shortly. The Nehru Centre, London, since it started functioning in 1992, has had a number of illustrious names in the field of art and culture such as Mr Gopalkrishna Gandhi, Mr Girish Karnad and Ms Pawan K. Varma among others as its directors.

The centre was set up to address the cultural aspirations of the Indian community and facilitate a sustained dialogue between Indian and British cultures. It commenced its work in July 1992, with a programme to mark the centenary of the election of Dadabhai Naoroji to the House of Commons - the first entry of an Asian to that august house. It is regarded by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) as its flagship cultural centre abroad, and has, over the years, emerged as a premier institution engaged in India’s cultural interface with Britain.

The centre serves as a platform for Indian culture in the broadest sense, focusing on the role played both by British and Indian artistes in promoting greater mutual cultural understanding, said a press release. Mr Abhay K. is the author of two memoirs and five poetry collections. His collection of poems includes “The Seduction of Delhi”.

He has been honoured with the SAARC Literary Award

Mr Abhay K.

and nominated for the Pushcart Prize 2013. He has received the Gov2.in Award on behalf of the Public Diplomacy Division under the external affairs ministry. april 2015 | india empire 33

ProFILe—WWI SLAIN Hero

By Sahana Ghosh

A pair of broken and blood-stained glasses tucked away inside a museum in West Bengal serves as a poignant reminder to the horrors of war and helped frame the incredible story of Mr Jogendra Nath Sen, the only nonwhite who fought in the 15th West Yorkshire Regiment and the first known Bengali to be killed in World War I. Discovered by London-based India-born Mr Santanu Das, an expert on India’s involvement in the war, the shattered pair of glasses and other memorabilia from the narrative of a documentary by Mr Shahid Hussain, just featured in the Inside Out segment on BBC One (Yorkshire).

Mr Sen hailed from Chandernagore (the former French Colony in Bengal now christened Chandannagar).

He arrived in England in 1910 to study at Leeds University in West Yorkshire. When the war broke out, Mr Sen was employed as an assistant engineer at Leeds Corporation Electric Lighting Station. In September 1914, he was among the first to sign up for the 15th West Yorkshire Regiment, also known as the Leeds Pals Battalion. “It was in 2005 I discovered the broken and blood-stained glasses of Jogendra Sen in the French Institute in Chandernagore,” Mr Das said.

“In the Chandernagore display cabinet, the caption said that Jogendra Sen was part of the West Yorkshire Regiment, a citizen of Chandernagore and the first Bengali to be killed in the 1914-1918 war, on May 22, 1916,” Mr Das, a reader in English literature at London’s King’s College, said. Private Mr Sen was killed in action near the 34 india empire | april 2015

Somme in France, aged 28. His name is etched on the university’s war memorial, said Mr Das. Apart from the spectacles, the display cabinet proved to be a unique window to the past for Mr Das, who grew up in Kolkata. “There were other memorabilia related to Sen - a photograph of a European lady, a razor, a booklet, a dog-tag and a piece of string. The booklet, we now know, was ‘Poems about Friendship’ signed by an enigmatic young lady ‘Cis’ (Cicely),” Mr Das said, adding the objects inspired his book ‘1914-1918: Indians on the Western Front’.

With inputs and aid from local researchers and academics at the university, Mr Das was able to painstakingly piece together moments from Mr Sen’s short life. “He was the only Indian, non-white, in that battalion,” said Mr Das, who, however, couldn’t locate any descendant of Mr Sen. Around 70,000 Indian soldiers lost their lives in the war. Some 150,000 Indian soldiers were deployed in Europe from September 1914. Mr Sen’s story was unique because he went to war as part of a British and not an Indian battalion. Despite being one of the most well-educated men in the battalion, his attempts to join up as officer were prevented.

He was known as ‘Jon Sen’ or ‘John Sen’ by his army pals and was immensely respected by them, Mr Das informed. Mr Sen is buried in the Colincamps cemetery in northern France. The documentary ‘From Bombay to the Western Front: Indians in the First World War’ was launched in Britain on March 10, 2015 and is now available online. ❐

NeWS IN BrIeF

NSIC signs MOU with Ministry of MSME for the Year 2015-16 National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The MOU for the year 2015-16 was signed by Shri Ravindra Nath, CMD, NSIC with Shri Madhav Lal, Secretary, MSME, Government of India. Also present during the MOU signing ceremony were Shri S.N. Tripathi, Joint Secretary, MSME, Shri P. Udayakumar, Director (P&M), NSIC and Shri B.H. Anil Kumar, Joint Secretary (ARI) The said MOU envisages provision of enhanced services

by NSIC under its Financial, Marketing, Technology Services and other support services schemes for MSMEs in the country. The MoU projects growth of 15%-20% in the operational performance of the Corporation during the year 2015-16. The key elements of the MOU for 2015-16 inter-alia include: a) Raw Material Distribution to the tune of Rs. 21000 crore in 2015-16 as against Rs. 18000 crore in the year 2014-15. b) Preparing MSEs to avail enhanced benefits under ‘Public Procurement’ through consortia formation, conducting vendor development program and providing tender information to facilitate in tender participation. c) Adoption of 10 clusters to extend benefits of NSIC’s Schemes to the MSMEs operating from such clusters. d) Facilitate MSMEs in their marketing efforts through mo-

Mr Ravindra Nath, CMD, NSIC (left) with Mr Madhav Lal, Secretary, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises

bilizing greater membership under e-marketing portalwww.msmeshopping.com.

Further, Shri Ravindra Nath, CMD,NSIC informed that special focus will also be given by NSIC to enhance the entrepreneurship and skill development activities through setting up livelihood incubation centres under the Scheme for “Promotion of Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Agro- Industry” of Ministry of MSME.

Hindus highest educated group in Scotland In Scotland, “Hindus had the highest qualifications and were most likely to be full-time students”, according to a Scottish Government report published on March 26.

“Analysis of Equality Results from the 2011 Census” report further states: “Hindus were most likely to be employed in the top two occupational groups” (managers, directors, senior officials and professional).

Summary of findings also indicated: “Hindu and Jewish people were most likely to be in the highest social grades and had the most representation in the highest two occupational categories”.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, congratulated the Hindu community in Scotland for continuing with the traditional values of hard work, higher morals, stress on education, sanctity of marriage, etc., amidst so many distractions.

Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, advised Hindus to focus on inner search, stay pure, explore the vast wisdom of scriptures, make spirituality more attractive to youth and children, stay away from the greed, and always keep God in your life.

According to this report; people with “no religion” are the highest in Scotland; followed by Church of Scotland adherents, Roman Catholics, religion not stated, other 36 india empire | april 2015

Rajan Zed with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Christians, Muslims, Hindus, other religions, Buddhists, Sikhs and Jews. Nicola Sturgeon is First Minister and Roger Halliday is Chief Statistician of Scotland, a semi-autonomous part of the United Kingdom.

Hinduism, oldest and third largest religion of the world, has about one billion adherents and moksh (liberation) is its ultimate goal.

DIASPorA NeWS IN BrIeF

Spreading knowledge in Qatar Six new Indian schools are among 91 new private schools given approval to open by authorities in Qatar. The move is expected to help parents get admission for their wards with fees on the lower side as well, said a senior at the Supreme Education Council (SEC) here, while relaxing some of the admission procedures for private school students. The SEC has given initial approval to 91 new private schools to open in the next academic year, including six Indian schools, senior SEC official Ms Aisha Al Hashmi disclosed. She hinted that some existing Indian schools would open new branches very soon, probably by April 2015.

“By September 2015, six Indian schools will open, some of them will be only kindergartens and others will have classes for other grades as well. Schools which were not allowed to admit more students due to lack of seats will soon open branches, it could be even by April 2015 before the Indian Schools start their academic year,” she said in March. “The new schools will be an alternative option for parents and their fees will be lower compared to some other private schools,” she added. A total of 145,000 students are presently studying at private schools and 23,000

of them are Qataris. Qatar is home to around 600,000 expatriate Indians.

Indian man racially abused in New Zealand An Indian-origin liquor store owner and manager in New Zealand have been ordered to pay an Indian employee NZD 45,000 (USD 32,881) in damages over racial harassment. Mr Satnam Singh said that he suffered racial abuse, culminating in physical assault, while employed for two months at Scorpion Liquor in Aucland’s Mt. Roskill area, according to a news daily.

A court hearing the case said Mr Satnam was also paid less than the minimum wage, earning between NZD 6-7 (USD 4-5) an hour. Store manager Mr Shane Singh and his mother Raj Devi, who owns the business, have not responded to the claims yet.

Mr Satnam Singh took the part-time job in January 2012 after coming to New Zealand on a student visa.

During his two months at Scorpion Liquordri, Mr Shane Singh frequently made references to “f...ing Indians”, and referred to Indian students as “Indian dogs”. The abuse climaxed on March 6, 2012, with Mr Shane Singh 38 india empire | april 2015

hitting Mr Satnam on the head with a clipboard, knocking off his turban and a cap he wore on top. He then told Mr Satnam Singh, “If I see you again, you’ll lose your turban and your teeth.” Mr Satnam Singh did not return to the store after the incident, the court said.

The defendants were ordered to pay NZD 45,000 in damages — NZD 10,000 higher than was sought — for humiliation and loss of dignity.

DIASPorA NeWS IN BrIeF

Indian-origin writer attacked in South Africa An Indian-origin author was attacked in South Africa for praising the controversial writer Mr Salman Rushdie said that the incident left her traumatised and needing psychiatric help. Ms Zainub Priya Dala, 40, said she was attacked a day after praising Rushdie’s writing style while addressing Chatsworth school children in Durban as part of the Time of the Writer literary festival.

Ms Dala said that a car forced her off the road on March 18, 2015 and one of the occupants—a man—held a knife to her throat and struck her across her face with a brick. She added that she swore at her, but was reluctant to go into details.

A daily quoted Ms Dala’s publisher, Fourie Botha, on March 21, 2015 as saying the attacker called her “Rushdie’s bitch”.

British Indian author Rushdie’s controversial 1988 novel “The Satanic Verses” sparked protests by Muslims in several countries. He received death threats and was named in a 2010 Al Qaeda “hit list” by Islamist militant Anwar al-Awlaki.

Speaking to the Daily News on March 23, 2015, Ms Dala said she suffered a fracture to her left cheek bone and that she was seeing a psychiatrist to help her deal with the trauma. “I am on antibiotics and have taken a tetanus injection. This afternoon (March 23, 2015) I went to my doctor to see if the fracture was severe, but was told it’s okay,” she said. The attack occurred a day after her remarks

learn from the Master After its success in April 2014, “Learn from the Master” is back to transform the Image Consultancy Industry in India. The course will be held in May 2015 and an internationally acclaimed trainer, Carla Mathis will be conducting two certified courses: Level I Essential Color and Style and Ms Carla Mathis Colour Masterclass.

“We are passionate to help people so that they know how to present themselves, so the world can know the value of each person and so that each person can realize his or her goals.

The love, care and attention that I received during my first visit to India were overwhelming and I am thrilled to be back in India to train future image consultants. India has huge potential for image consultants and it’s my personal endeavour to deliver the best to the Indian Market,” Carla Mathis said.

Ms Zainub Priya Dala

caused a walkout at the Chatsworth Education Centre.

Chatsworth, a large suburb created in the 1960s to house the Indian-origin population in South Africa, is situated in south Durban basin. According to police spokesman Mr Thulani Zwane, it was alleged that Ms Dala noticed another vehicle following her on March 18, 2015 at 2 p.m. “She decided to pull over as she was unsafe. The same vehicle pulled over and the occupants tried to stab her and fled,” Mr Zwane said.

MABA collaborates with ICCC An MoU was signed between Middlesex Asian Business Association and Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce on February 24, 2015 to recognise the immense possibilities for enhancing economic and commercial links between India, Canada, UK, Europe and Americas.

Both the associations considered that such cooperation within the framework of the laws and regulations of the concerned authorities, shall promote the strengthening of friendly relations between the Signing Associations which makes it although more important.

The MOU was signed by Mr. D.P. Jain, President, Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce and Mr Taha Kutay, Chairman, Middlesex Asian Business Association.

By signing the MoU, the association have hereby agreed that it shall encourage and promote, in accordance with their respective laws and regulations, co-operation between the two Associations in the field of finance, healthcare, education, investments, infrastructure, technology transfers, natural resource sector, mining, joint ventures and collaborations on the basis of equality and mutual benefit and shall determine, by mutual agreement, the areas and subjects of such cooperation. This MoU shall come into force effective from March 1, 2015 and shall remain valid until each party gives a 6 months written notice for its termination in advance. april 2015 | india empire 39

DIASPorA—USA

Indo-AmerIcAn communIty’s growIng Influence

By Arun Kumar

r

ecognising the growing influence of Indian-Americans in public life, several top politicians, including three women members of the US Congress, attended the 18th biennial convention of the National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA). The three-day meeting of the largest umbrella organization in the US, representing over 3.5 million Americans of Indian origin, in Cerritos, California was inaugurated by Indian Consul General Venkatesan Ashok and California State Treasurer John Chiang. The meeting was held form March 6 to 8, 2015.

Besides US House members Ms Judy Chu, Ms Loretta Sanchez, Ms Linda Sanchez, the convention was attended by the Mayor of Cerritos, Mr Mark Pulido, according to a media release. The opening session on the convention theme “Indian Americans Making an Impact in America” was chaired

by NFIA Founder President Dr. Thomas Abraham. It was followed by three more sessions: Indian Americans Contributing to India, chaired: Mr Inder Singh, past NFIA chairman; Indian American Impact in The Area of Technology and Medicine, chaired by Boeing Company Technical Fellow Paul Sikand and Impact in US-India Trade and Business, chaired by Amritt Inc. Managing Director Ms Gunjan Bagla.

Speakers included Long Beach Vice Mayor Ms Suja Lowenthal, former Anaheim Councilman Harry Sidhu, Stem cell ther40 india empire | april 2015

apy practitioner Dr. Gaurav Goswami, and Attorney Mr Sunny Kalara. The election of NFIA office bearers was held after the General Body Meeting (GBM) chaired by Mr Sohan Joshi of Chicago. Mr Ashok Madan from Southern California was elected as president unopposed. Mr Sudip Gorakshakar from Washington State was elected as Executive Vice President.

The three vice presidents elected unopposed were Mr Ajoy Dube from California, Mr Babu K. Patel from Illinois, and Mr Satheesan Nair also from Illinois. The position of the NFIA secretary went to Dr. Yogendra Gupta from Maryland and Joint Secretary to Mr Vasu Pawar from Southern California. Mr Makam Subbarao from Southern California was elected as the Treasurer. The seven Directors—at—Large were Ms Rachel Verghese (Texas), Ms Anjali Sachdev (Washington State), Dr. Satish Misra (Maryland), Mr Madhavan Nair (Illinois), Mr Ramesh Ramnani (Southern California) and Mr Sachin Amin and Mr Ashok Patnaik from California.

The six Regional Vice Presidents (RVP) elected unopposed were: Dr. Om Sharma (National Capital Region), Vandana Jhingan (Illinois), Mihir Patel (New York), Raj Razdan (Georgia), Lavanya Reddy (Washington State), and Kewal Kanda (California) The new Board appointed Chandu Patel from Southern California as Chairman of the NFIA Foundation, Dr. Hari Har Singh from NCR as Executive Director (Administration) and Dr. Joydeb Roy from NCR as Executive Director. Ms Angela Anand was appointed to chair the taskforce on Women’s Affairs. ❐

CoLUMN: yogI ASHWINI

MIND AND BoDy

The SecreT oF oM

By Yogi Ashwini Yogi AShwini

A

s creation began, time was created first and rest everything came after that. Whenever anything starts, first of all its time is determined. Think about it, all the pleasures that you take through the day - relationships, property, business, money - is there anything that is beyond time?

There is only one thing that is not tied to time - reality. What is real, is not bound by time.

So first, time was created. Next, came the primordial sound of ‘om’. Is om then bound by time? Om is both, tied and free from time. How? When om is chanted, it can be a short ‘om’ or a continuous ‘ooooooooom’. The om is tied to time but oooooom has no beginning or end, it is the brahmnaad, a continuous loop of countless short oms. It is the separated smaller oms that manifest as various aspects of creation.

So first came time, next came om and from it emerged prakriti and purush, the two aspects of creation. So om becomes the doorway between this world and that or the key to enlightenment. Purush further manifested as brahma, vishnu and mahesh while prakriti gave rise to saraswati, lakshmi and adi-shakti.

Thereafter the tridevas got tied to their respective karyakshetra in creation and the devis further divided to form the navdurgas which further split into more and more parts giving us the creation as it exists today.

Each one of us is ‘om’, a poorn ansh of creation comprising of purush and prakriti. In that respect, each individual is tied to time and at the same time independent of it. Every individual is living in unreality and also in reality. How is this possible?

Let us understand this with a practical example. When you go to watch a movie, you take yourself to be reality and what is happening in the movie as unreal and yet, you get so involved in that unreality that you laugh and weep as the movie progresses.

You have the option to sail out of the movie or remain engrossed in it. It has got both limited and unlimited aspect to it.

The limited aspect is the movie (om) and the unlimited aspect (oooooom) is the person watching it. The same is true of the movie we call the physical life. Every human being is tied to it and yet not tied to it. He just has to realize it.

The om is one, every human being is that om but he has tied himself to the physical world which he mistakes as real. The irony is that the physical world is slipping way from his hand with every passing day – every new day brings with it another grey hair, another wrinkle on the skin, a new disease or prob42 india empire | april 2015

lem, further weakening of the senses – and yet he does not want to leave the physical. The one who knows that what he is doing is foolish and does it because he knows that the physical has to be passed, karmas have to be carried out and that he has the choice to walk out of the movie hall anytime he wants - that person is called a realized soul, a Yogi. A fool is the one who continues sitting on the chair as he wants to enjoy a little longer. And what happens in that ‘little longer’ is that the time, which he could have utilized somewhere else, passes and as that time passes, he is left with nothing. His back bends, hair fall and senses dull. Finally his body becomes useless and is put to fire.

Each one of you has a choice to exist in reality or continue fooling yourself in the unreal. Each one you is an oooom formed by the smaller oms, that are temporary and limited are the physical world, the unreal. You may live in the oms or access the unending oooom, which is the param satya. On specific nights of energy, such as tonight (Diwali), as you do dhyan on the form of Guru with the internal chant of ooom at the agyachakra, you will experience the reality, the limitless and the unreal will leave you automatically. All the secrets of creation are hidden in the om. But the chant should be correct.

Otherwise you can go on watching movies…every new movie is more interesting and fun than the previous. There is no end to entertainment, but what is lost is –time. When time passes, you take another birth, another life with similar or aggravated pains and tensions, the same cycle yet again. You can keep going round and round in the unreal, and keep wasting time because it is very easy to live in a lie. You keep thinking, now this will happen, that will happen, but nothing happens.

Whatever you are thinking, even if that happens, then also what will you do? For how long will that continue to happen? Whenever you are enjoying something, try to separate yourself from it and observe that who is it that is enjoying and for how long will it continue. Because whether you like it or not, everything in the physical is going to go as it is tied with time. It is only reality that is beyond time, rest everything is time-bound. No matter what you get, the day you get it, it’s time to go away from you also gets fixed.

Human being has been on this planet for atleast 5 lakh years of recorded history. And all this time he has thought that only ❐ he exists, no one else and he continues to live for himself.

—The writer Yogi Ashwini Ji is the head of Dhyan Foundation, Delhi. For details contact: ashwiniyogi@yahoo.co.in