CONTENTS
November 2014
06 THe LIFe oF PANDIT SHYAmAJI KrISHNAvArmA An Indian hero who championed the cause of independence
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06
WooING THe DIASPorA PM Modi woos overseas Indians in Oz and Fiji
20 SIr SHrIDATH rAmPHAL A sterling legacy
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22 KeNYA’S bANK bAroN The story of Rasik Kantaria
26 brITISH SIKHS Getting together annually
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29 PATHWAY To PeACe Interfaith conference in Chicago
32 INvITING ISLAND Mauritius beckons from far and wide
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cover story
Forgotten
Freedom Fighter By Hemant Padhya This is the inspiring narrative of a forgotten hero, a lesser known yet gallant Indian soul who was a freedom fighter, scholar and philanthropist rolled into one, a man deeply committed to freeing India from the stranglehold of the British during the first decade of the 20th century. It is strange that very few Indians living in Paris and France that talk about the Indian Diaspora these days, rarely mention about the Sanskrit scholar Pandit Shyamaji Krishnavarma. Shyamaji lived in Paris for seven years, between 1907 and 1914, and worked tirelessly to make Europeans aware of the need to free India from British rule. To this end, he ran newspapers, doled out scholarships for Indian students in Britain, lectured extensively, and financially involved himself to the cause. Before moving to Paris, Shyamaji lived in London for 10 years. He escaped the clutches of British police and intelligence in the nick of time to find his way to Paris with his wife. In London he had established the Indian Home Rule Society in 1905 at his home address at 60, Muswell Hill Road, Highgate, London N 10 31R. In the British capital his freedom propaganda took off with the publishing of the first and foremost anti-colonial newspaper called The Indian Sociologist. He bought a large house at 65, Cromwell Avenue and transformed it into a student hostel named India House. Visiting Indian students to England who were looking for cheap accommodation were housed there, and at the same time provided demagogic orientation to become part of India’s freedom movement. Shayamji established numerous scholarships for the visiting Indian students to enable them to study in Britain. He also established a lectureship in memory of sociologist Dr. Herbert Spencer at the University of Oxford with a starting donation of £1000 which was an enormous amount of money in those days. Shyamaji lived in London between 1896 and 1907 and fought for Indian freedom against British Rule. He succeeded in gathering the support and help not only of Indian people but also of many British people from all walks of life. With radical and anti-British activities, including his writings and lectures, it did not take long for Shyamji to become an arch enemy of the British 6
india empire | november 2014
Pandit Shyamaji Krishnavarma (1857-1930)
Government of the time. So worried did the British Government become by his activities that it lined up the secret service to watch over him. Increasingly, demands to arrest Shyamaji were made in Britain. People wanted his freedom movement crushed. The British media played to the gallery and piled up the pressure to arrest him. Shaymaji continued undaunted, in the process whipping up British anger into a frenzy. ESCAPE TO PARIS First, Shayamji’s newspaper, The Indian Sociologist, was banned. A trap to arrest him under the treason act in
Hall of honour where the memorial plaque of Pandit Shyamaji Krishnavarma is erected
Pandit Shyamaji’s residence in Paris, France
Rare collection of Pandit Shyamaji Krishnavarma’s Sanskrit and other books donated to Cite Universitaire, Paris with the book chest. The name was carved on top of the chest
Britain was laid out, but Shyamaji escaped to France and joined his comrades Mr Sardarsinh Rana and Madam Bhikaji Cama. He took along with him his wife, Bhanumatiji. It was the year 1907. After arriving in Paris, Shyamaji re-established the head quarter of his freedom movement in the French capital the same year. He bought a luxurious property at 10 Avenue Ingres, Passy, and Paris. Shyamji restlessly worked in Paris to procure support for Indian Independence from European countries with great success. He made friendship with many French politicians, scholars like Professor Levi and many Russian revolutionaries living in exile in Paris. Shyamaji requested his British socialist friend and supporter Mr Henry Hyndman to arrange an invitation of representation of India and sent Madam Cama and Sardarsinh Rana as a representative of India to the International Congress of Socialists where Madam Cama historically unfurled the flag of Indian Independence and requested support and help of socialists from all over the world. Shyamaji had a great affection with Paris and France as this nation is the father of democracy. He had always shown a keen interest in the fate of Indian students studying at the Cite Universitaire and at the Institute of Indian
Civilisation in Paris. He always helped many students financially during his stay in Paris and continued to provide scholarships to needy Indian students. Although he had no spare time to start another project like India House of London in Paris, he had the burning desire and intention to establish a similar hostel in Paris. His wife was also aware of this. Unfortunately, Shyamaji could not carry out his project during his short stay of seven years but his wife always had his dream in her mind. Although Shyamaji was living in Paris and enjoying French protection, the British secret agency was still keeping watchful eyes on his activities in the French capital. The British Government tried to extradite him from France with no success as Shyamaji established a great friendship with many top French politicians. He also knew that the presence of Indian nationalists in Paris would be seriously jeopardised by the outbreak of an European war as well as by the visit of King George to Paris to set a final seal of Entente Cordiale. In 1914, Shyamji foresaw the fate and shifted his headquarters to Geneva. He continued his struggle for Indian independence, morally and financially, with same enthusiasm but with some restrictions due to the pledge of political inaction he had given to Swiss Governnovember 2014 | india empire
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cover story
The author with PM Mr Narendra Modi holding a plaque in memory of Pandit Shyamaji Krishnavarma and his wife
ment during the entire period of Second World War. He kept in touch with his old friends but he could not support them fully but continued his mission of Indian Independence in Geneva until the day of his last breath on March 30, 1930. Pandit Shyamaji donated 20,000 Swiss francs to the University of Geneve to establish the publications each year in the subject of sociology and generous donation to Swiss Government during the war period. They have donated large amounts to charity organisations and 10000 Swiss francs to Clinique La Colline too. Bhanumatiji knew of her husband’s desire and tried to do her best to fulfill it with the enormous wealth he left. First she generously donated 15,000 francs to “de l’institut de civilisation Indienne’’ for the publication of a SanskritFrench dictionary—dictionnaire Sanskrit-Francais which was first published in 1932. The revised editions are still available in market with the recognition of the donation in memory of Pandit Shyamaji Krishnavarma. She donated two million Francs to establish a foundation in memory of her husband at l’institut de civilisation indienne, part of Cite Universitaire or Sorbonne Universités. The foundation was established to help Indian students financially and two hostel rooms were permanently reserved to provide accommodations to Indian Students visiting the University for further studies. This was done in 1936 which is 32 years before the establishment of Indian student’s Hostel ‘’Maison de l'Inde’’ at Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris. The university honoured Pandit Shyamaji with his memorial in the Hall 8
india empire | november 2014
of Honour for this enormous donation. Bhanumati Krishnavarma also established further scholarships for women and young men preferably from Mumbai. Precedence in India for the research and study contributed to the progress of social life in India, such as Child Medicine, Gynaecology, Co-operative Assistance, Public Health, Technology and pedagogy etc. Pandit Shyamaji’s hard earned wealth was spent for the freedom of his motherland and for the better education of Indian students during his life time and thereafter. It is a shame that such a great Indian Freedom fighter hero was forgotten in the history of Indian Independence who started Indian Freedom Movement twenty years before Gandhiji entered into the arena of Indian independence and who preached the principles non-violence, disassociation, non-cooperation and peace and demanded ‘’Swarajya’’ [Home Rule] at least 15 years before Gandhiji but never ruled out to take up arms to fight tyranny. Pandit Shyamaji would be the first and only Indian NRI Philanthropist who generously donated to the Universities in Paris, Oxford and Geneva and spent most of his wealth to make his motherland free from British Rule. Such a great Indian hero must me admired and honoured same way as the other few leaders of India Independence and all Indians including British, French and Swiss NRI Indians must be proud of their hero like Pandit Shyamaji Krishnavarma who not only contributed to his motherland India but also contributed to a great deal to the host countries where he lived. ❐
PM’s AUstrALIA vIsIt
roCKing in oZ Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi spent 5 days in Australia between November 14 and 18, 2014. He met with world leaders at the G 20 Summit and had bilateral meetings with his counterpart, PM Mr. Tony Abbott. He also interacted extensively with the Indian diaspora. A trainnamed Modi Express plied Indians between Sydney and Brisbane. Here are excerpts from his speech at the Joint Session of Australian Parliament
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Tony Abbott, at MCG, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi with the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Tony Abbott, Mr. Sunil Gavaskar, Mr. Kapil Dev and Mr. V.V.S. Laxman at the Civic Reception hosted by the Australian PM, at MCG, Australia
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“
I
stand here as one of you - a representative of the people; I come to you with the greetings of 1.25 billion people of a nation, linked to Australia by the great Indian Ocean; by our connected history and our many shared inheritances- and, even more by our deeply interlinked destinies. And, today I have come to unite in spirit, as we were once by geography - spirit that is fed by many stirring stories of human success and sacrifice. This morning, Prime Minister and I honoured our soldiers, who 100 years ago made the supreme sacrifice together in the battle of Gallipoli. The man who designed this beautiful capital of Canberra, Walter Burley Griffin, lies buried in the old city of Lucknow in India. More than 150 years ago, an Australian novelist and lawyer John Lang fought the legal battle for a brave Indian freedom fighter, the Queen of Jhansi, Rani Laxmi Bai against the British East India Company in India`s first War of Independence. He also lies buried in the Indian hill town of Mussoorie. The statue of Gandhi in Canberra is a symbol of our shared values. We celebrate the legend of Bradman and the class of Tendulkar together. We are impressed by Australian speed as you are charmed by the Indian spin Until of course Shane Warne came along! But, above all, we are united by the ideals of democracy. Today, as I stand in this temple of democracy, I consider nations such as ours to be blessed, because democracy offers the best opportunity for the human spirit to flourish, because we have the freedom to choose, the right to speak and the power to remove – and, for us in politics, with no option but to leave with grace. Generations of people`s representatives have made Australia one of the great nations of the world today. From the vast stretch of territory to the abundance of resources, Nature has been generous to you. But, it is the people of Australia, who have made Australia what it is today: A beacon of democracy and rule of law; a nation that willingly leads the search of a lost aircraft; one of the most prosperous nations in the world;among the best in human development index; a nation with some of the best cities in the world; some of the most productive farms and mines; some of its best universities and research centres; an advanced technology base; and, a nation with great sporting skills. Australia evokes images not just of immense beauty, but also of a great quality of life. Today, its cities are alive with richness of this world’s diversity. And, it is home to 450,000 Indians, who are as proud to be part of Australia as they are of their Indian heritage. Honorable Members, There was a time when, for many of us, Australia was a distant land on the southern edge of the world. Today, the world sees Australia to be at the heart of the Asia Pacific and Indian Ocean region. This dynamic region holds the key to this world`s future; and Australia is at its cross-currents. And, as Australia has become more engaged
in this part of the world, we welcome its growing role in driving this region`s prosperity and shaping its security. Because we, in India, seek the same future for this world. We also see Australia as a vital partner in India`s quest for progress and prosperity. There are few countries in the world where we see so much synergy as we do in Australia. India a nation of more than a billion seeking development; Australia a developed country of a few million people and vast resource. Since the turn of this century, India has been the second fastest growing economy in the world. Millions have lifted themselves out of poverty into a new life of possibilities. Today, we have a government with a clear majority after thirty years. From the remotest village to the biggest cities, there is a new high tide of hope in India; a new energy. It is the energy of our youth – the 800 million people below the age of 35 – eager for change, willing to work for it - because, now they believe that it is possible. That they can make it happen. It is this force of transformation that we will unleash. In the six months that we have been in office, we have moved forward, thinking with ambition, acting with speed; seeking growth not just for growth, but to transform the quality of life of every Indian – I see Australia as a major partner in every area of our national priority. In providing skills and education to our youth; a roof over every head and electricity in every household; the most affordable healthcare for the most difficult diseases; the next generation of infrastructure that does not take a toll on our environment; Energy that does not cause our glaciers to melt - clean coal and gas, renewable energy or fuel for nuclear power; cities that are smart, sustainable and livable; villages that offer opportunities; agriculture that yields more and farms that are better connected to markets; practices and technology that save water. We have a new Mission for turning "Made in India" into a global name just as Computer in India is. But, we want to find new pathways to prosperity, not simply travel down the roads of the previous century. Much of India`s future cities and infrastructure is yet to be built and so we have a unique opportunity to make our choices now. And, in every sector – agriculture, food processing, mining, infrastructure, manufacturing, finance and technology, energy; from providing funds and resources to technology and expertise; working as partners and investers -Australia has immense opportunities to participate in India`s progress. In turn, India will be the answer to your search for new economic opportunities and your desire to diversify your global economic engagement; your source for world class skills at home or for a manufacturing location abroad. India’s development, demography and demandprovide a unique long term opportunity for Australia – and all in the familiar framework of democracy. There is no other example of this nature in the world. Indian investors, too, are coming here in growing numbers ❐ and commitments.” november 2014 | india empire
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PM’s AUstrALIA vIsIt
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi delivers his address to Business Leaders, in Melbourne, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting the Governor of Victoria, Mr. Alex Chernov, in Melbourne, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting the Australian CEOs, in Melbourne, Australia
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The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi presents to the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. Tony Abbott, a photo collage on John Lang, an Australian with an Indian connection, in Canberra, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi with the Speaker of Australian House of Representatives, Mr. Bronwyn Bishop and the President of the Senate, Mr. Stephen Parry, at Parliament House, in Canberra, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting Institutional Investors, in Melbourne, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi addressing the joint session of Parliament of Australia, at Parliament House, in Canberra, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi shaking hands with the Australian Parliamentarians, after addressing joint session of Australian Parliament, at Parliament House, in Canberra, Australia. The Prime Minister ofAustralia, Mr. Tony Abbott is also seen
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PM’s AUstrALIA vIsIt
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi concluded his speech with "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" at the Community Reception, at Allphones Arena, in Sydney, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi greeting an NRI Group at the Community Reception, at Allphones Arena, in Sydney, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting the Premier of Queensland, Mr. Campbell Newman before the Civic Reception, at City Hall, in Brisbane, Australia
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The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting the Premier of New South Wales, Mr. Mike Baird, in Sydney, Australia
PM’s AUstrALIA vIsIt
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi unveiling the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, at Roma Street Parkland, in Brisbane, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting the German Chancellor, Ms. Angela Merkel, in Brisbane, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi with the other BRICS leaders ahead of G-20 Summit, in Brisbane, Australia
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi with other Leaders in the G-20 family photograph, at the G-20 Summit, in Brisbane, Australia
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PM’s FIJI vIsIt
IN THE LAND OF
GIRMITIYAS Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi flew to Fiji from Australia, the first visit by an Indian Prime to this Pacific Island nation in 33 years. He met with his counterpart, PM Frank Bainimarama and pointed out that Fiji could serve as a hub for stronger Indian engagement with Pacific islands. About 37.5 per cent of Fiji’s population of 900,000 plus is of Indian origin, descendants of Girmitiyas who went to work there as indentured labour. This is an extract from the PM’s address before the Fijian Parliament “… Honorable Members, For India, Fiji will always have a special place. The tide of history brought many from India to your shores. It has forged our ties of culture and kinship. But, our relationship today stands on a much broader of our shared values and our common interests as developing countries. And, now, together we were partners in making history. You graciously hosted Indian scientists in Fiji for tracking our Mars Mission, Mangalyaan. It was the only mission in the world to succeed in the first attempt. I convey today the gratitude of the people and the scientists of India. This simple yet profound act of cooperation reflects the boundless possibilities in our relationship, if we choose to seek them. Our trade and investment ties have been modest. Our relationship in science, education and culture could be stronger. Yet, there are examples of our partnership that should inspire us – our cooperation in upgrading your sugar mills or the public-private partnership in the area of healthcare. As we have collaborated in running hospitals here, we can also extend our cooperation in pharmaceuticals and traditional medicines. As Fiji adjusts to the changing global markets, India is prepared to be your partner – In making your existing industry stronger and finding new opportunities for your youth. For countries like ours, village and small and medium scale industries are the source of enterprise and employment. Today, I am pleased to announce a grant of 5 million U.S. dollars to strengthen and modernize Fiji's village, small and medium industries. We will also provide a Line of Credit of 70 million dollars for a co-generation power plant at Rarav Sugar Mill. And, another Line of Credit of 5 million dollars for upgrading the sugar industry in Fiji. Agriculture supports a majority of the population in India and Fiji. I offer our expertise and assistance in increasing productivity in the agriculture sector. As the largest producer of milk 18 india empire | november 2014
in the world, India can help develop your dairy industry, which can also contribute to your exports. In areas like fisheries, textiles and garments, and gems and jewellery, we can expand trade. In this digital age, every nation can be part of the global information technology industry. And, it is a dream that youth around the world share. It is an industry that depends on ideas and skills. It offers a great path to prosperity. And, it has a light carbon footprint. We were pleased to set up a centre of excellence in information technology here in Fiji. We are is prepared to work with you to build a Digitial Fiji and to equip your youth to integrate Fiji into the global IT network. We will also deepen our cooperation in education and training and we will double the number of our scholarships. Today, I propose that we work together to harness the potential of Space technology for governance, economic development, conservation, climate change and natural disasters. We could work to make Fiji the hub for our regional collaboration in Space, just as India has done with ASEAN. There are times when we think of each other as distant lands, separated by oceans and seven time zones. But, think of the days when travel was difficult. That did not deter brave people from travelling over the seas in search of a new life. Distance, to me, is irrelevant in a world of fiber optic cables and satellite links. We are only as far away as the click of a mouse or the call button of a phone. In any case, a direct flight today can take you from Fiji to most places in India. And, I say this more to my people than to you. Fijians have been steady in visiting India. We in India have not paid enough attention to this beautiful land of warm people and immense potential. This must change. We must make travel easier between our two countries. For this reason, I have taken a small step in extending visa on arrival to Fijians in India, as you have done for Indians. And, if you want to attract more Indians to enjoy the magnificence of your islands and the warmth of your hospitality, you should invite Bolly-
The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting the Prime Minister of Fiji, Mr. Frank Bainimarama, at the bilateral talks, in Suva, Fiji
wood to shoot their films in Fiji. Honourable Members of Parliament, We have spoken of vast opportunities, but we also share many common challenges. For you, climate change is not a matter of debate, but a basic question of existence. India, too, is a nation of a long coastline and more than 1000 islands, a nation that is nurtured by monsoon rain and the Himalayan glaciers. We, too, are facing the searing impact of climate change. And, we spend more than 6% of our GDP in adapting to its consequences. Now, each of us must shoulder our own responsibilities. We cannot side aside and take no action. Technology has made it possible.We don't have to seek old pathways to prosperity. In India, we have a comprehensive national plan and strategy to both mitigate and adapt to climate change. And, I have a deep personal commitment to it. And, we look forward to working with Fiji in areas such wind and solar energy. But, it is also equally important that the global community accepts its responsibility and implements its commitment. It should not become one in which the strong shift the burden on the others; or impose the responsibilities of their excesses on the choices that others make. It should not be an issue of economic advantage or trade competitive of one over the other. The world had agreed on a beautiful balance of collective action – common but differentiated responsibilities. That should form the basis of continued action. This also means that the developed countries must fulfil their commitments
for funding and technology transfer. India has stood shoulder to shoulder with Fiji and the Small Islands Developing States is seeking a fair and urgent response from the international community for a sustainable future. We also have shared stakes in a peaceful, cooperative and prosperous Asia and Pacific regions. Stretching from the Indian Ocean through continental Asia into Pacific, this is a region of enormous dynamism and opportunities, but also a region with many challenges. Fiji is a leader in the region and a strong voice in the developing world. Together, we can also work for a future in the region, in which there is an equal place for all nations - big and small, developed and developing – and a climate of peace and tranquility. I thank Prime Minister and Fiji for their leadership in hosting my meeting with the Pacific leaders later today. Let us join hands to create an ocean of opportunity that stretches from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. Sometimes our relations have been adrift. Sometimes our relations have been adrift. Let us chart a new course. Let us start a new era - When it does not take another 33 years for an Indian Prime Minister to visit Fiji. When Fijians and Indians work with each other from the comfort of familiarity and the ease that comes with the habit of regular partnership. When we draw strength from the ties of history and the bonds of emotions; seek new purpose in our many shared interests; and seize our new opportunities.” ❐ november 2014 | india empire 19
IndIAn dIAsPorA In GUyAnA
Glimpses of a Global Life By Sir Shridath Ramphal
Sir Shridath "Sonny" Ramphal has lived a long and global life. A lawyer and international diplomat, he rose from humble origins to become a key Advisor to Queen Elizabeth II as Head of the Commonwealth. Leaders from every continent engaged with him as the longest serving Secretary-General of the Commonwealth (1975–1990) and as the only person who served on all the Independent International Commissions that grappled with the world's major issues. His book, Glimpses of a Global Life, involves a cast of the world's leading characters and the central role Ramphal played alongside them in issues such as ending the apartheid in South Africa; laying the foundations for global concerns about the environment; the reform of global governance, and the resolution of conflicts. It is an analysis of major problems and challenges that dominated the twentieth century and which continue to shape the contours of the twenty-first
The 58th Lecture of the Americas of the Organization of American States (OAS) welcomed the launch of the book "Glimpses of a Global Life," the memoirs of former Secretary General of the Commonwealth and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guyana, Sir Shridath Ramphal and paid tribute to the life and work of the Guyanese politician, considered an expert on good governance, integration, economic development and social justice in the Caribbean and elsewhere. The OAS Assistant Secretary General, Albert Ramdin, who delivered the welcoming remarks on behalf of Secretary General, José Miguel Insulza, highlighted some of the major contributions of Sir Shridath Ramphal to the history of his country and the region, and assured that "the OAS is very pleased to be part of the launch of this long-awaited publication." About the book, the OAS senior official said that it is laid out "carefully and with humility. From my perspective, this is not just a memoir with personal insights, it’s also a commentary of an insider’s perspective on pivotal events that have shaped the world and the Caribbean in recent decades." Ambassador Ramdin recalled that the impact of the work of Sir Shridath Ramphal was "very substantive" and said that his legacy "is real, because he is not only the man of the Caribbean who prioritized regionalism, he is the man who worked shoulder to shoulder with world leaders debating methods of foreign affairs and diplomatic relations; the man who formed a modern community of nations and made concrete and meaningful contributions to 20 india empire | november 2014
Sir Shridath Ramphal topics such as world trade, the apartheid and conflict resolution." "His memoirs are sorrowful and at the same time diplomatic enough to give us an idea of the reality behind some of the most important challenges in the recent history of the diplomatic world; the lessons and perspectives
contained in this book are noteworthy and greatly appreciated," he concluded. In his presentation, Shridath Ramphal said that "there is so much I could have written about, so many others who shared my global journeys that I should have written of. Alas, it would take another book to do so; it must suffice to plead that these are ‘glimpses’ only and to hope that in their own way they conjure up, especially for those who shared them." Integration efforts in the Caribbean occupied much of his memoirs, explained the former Foreign Minister of Guyana and said that his book evokes the ambivalence and the steps in the formation of the West Indies Federation, its collapse, and the work of the West Indian Commission in charting the course for the region’s integral development. His presentation included quotes related to such events and to the efforts to promote the community of nations in the Caribbean as an entity with a global relevance. Continuing with this narration, he said that "in March 1976 I discussed with the Permanent Representative of the Commonwealth at the UN the idea of requesting observer status for the Commonwealth Secretariat at the United Nations General Assembly, this would be symbolic of our internationalism, but on the practical side it would give us entitlement to all UN documents and to be represented in an observer capacity at all UN meetings." The idea was warmly received, cites Shridath Ramphal in his book, "it was consummated by a General Assembly consensus resolution, because the world had begun to see the Commonwealth not as an empire club, but as a global asset in the world’s search for a new way forward." The book also details the processes that led to the recognition of the former Minister and his election as the second Secretary General of Commonwealth, "from my small perch in Guyana I had by 1974 come to the notice of the international community in a very positive way" explains the text that continues to describe that " a substantial element of this good opinion was a reflection of the standing Guyana itself was acquiring in all international theaters, especially as a reliable and effective advocate of the causes of developing countries, but it went beyond economic issues; I earned respect form Guyana´s principled positions, Guyana was recognized as being progressive but not extremist," he said. The book launched today at OAS headquarters in Washington, DC shows the role played by the Commonwealth to help end the Unilateral Declaration of Independence of Southern Rhodesia which led to Zimbabwe's independence, the assistance provided to the struggle against apartheid and the release of Nelson Mandela. "The leadership that we exercised in the areas of South Africa and the restructuring of global economic relations played an important role in the perception that the international community had on us," said the former Secretary General of the Commonwealth. The Chancellor of the University of the West Indies, George Alleyne, offered the introductory remarks on the presentation and spoke about the major contributions made by Sir Shridath Ramphal in the advancement of free-
dom, independence and good governance. "His roots are in Guyana, but his trunk is Caribbean and his branches spread all over the world, there are testimonies of the values of those branches wherever he set foot or had given a voice," he said. The book, continued Alleyne, must be appreciated "as a tapestry of the life and times of a remarkable individual," whose figure reached its true dimension as head of the Commonwealth. "His status as a global player became iconic with his work at the Organization, where he undertook many initiatives that positioned it as a leader in many areas of international affairs," he said. After the presentation of former Minister Shridath Ramphal, Assistant Secretary General Ramdin moderated a dialogue between the audience and author about his perspectives on the past and future of the region, an act that ❐ was followed by a book signing session. november 2014 | india empire 21
IndIAn dIAsPorA In KenyA
INDIAN-KENYAN
BANK BARON From a small shop in a village near Nairobi, Rasik Kantaria established a bank with branches in Kenya and other African countries
A
By Kul Bhushan
s Indian traders in Africa expanded their business operations from small shops became distributors and later established industries, they employed local people, contributed to local communities by donating to charities, setting up social welfare intuitions and ultimately, honoured by the community at large and the Government. Bank baron Dr. Rasiklal Chhotalal Kantaria is one such example from Kenya who established Prime Bank in Nairobi. His family settled in a small village of Limuru near Nairobi in 1898 when his father, Chhotalal Dharamshi Kala Kantaria, opened a small shop. Rasik was born in 1943 and after finishing his school in Nairobi, he studied in Britain for his degree in economics. Back in Kenya, Rasik joined the family business of a flour mill and a saw mill at an early age. The family expanded into other enterprises such as tea estate, auto spares, transport, hardware, tyre retreating, plastics and real estate. Rasik ventured into finance and founded Prime Capital & Credit Limited in 1988. Just four years later, he set up Prime Bank which has grown into one of the leading banks in Kenya
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Rasik Kantaria
with 16 branches all over the country. The bank offers a full range of financial services, including foreign exchange transactions. Partnering Visa and Money Gram, this bank offers speedy money transfers to any part of the world. Promoting small and medium enterprises in Kenya, the bank has tied up with European financial institutions. Now it has branches in five African countries. It has shareholding in similar African banks in Malawi, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique. Beyond banking, Rasik has expanded into real estate and manufacturing. In real estate, he has built housing estates and prestigious business properties in Nairobi. In tourism, he has owns a wild life lodge and industrial units to manufacture hospital supplies. His remarkable entrepreneurial spirit has provided jobs for over 3,000 people across Africa. In addition to his business activities, Rasik has contributed in full measure to the community at large. He is involved with Jaipur Foot Project to help the handicapped. This project has enabled over 30,000 people to be fitted with Jaipur Foot that allows them to live a normal life. The former President of Kenya Mwai Kibaki congratulated him for his work with the Jaipur Foot Project. Donating wheel chairs for the disables, digging boreholes for water and feeding needy children
are some community welfare projects with his active involvement. Helping children for a better life with proper nutrition, health and education is his passion and he has donated and worked for many such projects across Kenya. His contribution to the community prompted him to finance a modern operation theatre in the Lions Eye Hospital in Nairobi, the largest such hospital in East Africa. This state of the art operation theatre has been named in honour of his mother, Prabhaben Chhotalal Kantaria. Similarly, he donated generously for the construction of the ultra-modern Usha Rasiklal Chhotalal Kantaria Maternity Ward in M. P. Shah Hospital in Nairobi. He is affiliated to dozens of social welfare bodies in Kenya for his support. For his welfare projects, he has been awarded an honorary doctorate of humanities degree. Rotary Club and similar organisations have also applauded his contribution. “Happiness does not result from what we get,” says Rasik, “But from what we give.” ❐
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IndIAn dIAsPorA In KenyA
‘BELIEVE IT OR NOT’ ACT By Kul Bhushan
This true life saga merits inclusion in ‘Believe it or not’ book. A father and son duo of Kenya cricketers participated in the same threeday One Day International matches (ODIs)! Really! How can this happen? The father, Subash Modi, was the umpire and the son, Hitesh Modi, was a player in the same international matches. Hitesh Modi Here is a unique happening in the cricket world. Only a dedicated cricket historian can dig up another example of this nature. The first ODI in which father and son featured together in the same match was Kenya vs West Indies played on 15 August 2001 on Nairobi’s Simba Union grounds when one of the umpires was Subash Modi and one of the Kenya players was his son, Hitesh Modi. At the end of the match, the ICC Match Referee Vishwanath Gundapa from India congratulated Subash that this was the first time a father and son duo were featured in an official ODI match. This feat was repeated in two other ODIs, Kenya vs Bangladesh. The story starts in 1957 when Subash started playing cricket at the age of eleven while at school in Zanzibar. Two years later, he moved to Kenya with his parents and continued playing at school in Nairobi. After playing for various clubs namely Ngara Sports Club, Pangani Sports Club and Premier Club he graduated to Kenya national team in 1969 during the Quadrangular Cricket Tournament in Zambia in which Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia participated. He played active cricket until 1984 and then became a Kenya cricket umpire in 1981. With experience, he represented International Cricket Council Associates and Affiliates Umpires Panel from 2005 to 2010. He has umpired 22 ODIs and nine T20 matches while Hitesh played 63 ODI's for Kenya. His achievements as an umpire are exceptional. He represented International Cricket Council (ICC) Umpires Panel for Affiliates and Associates from 2006 to 2010 when he retired and then became the Regional Match Referee for ICC Africa Region. Subash has umpired in East Africa, England, Scotland, South Africa, Ireland, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, India, Zambia, Malawi, Mauritius and the Seychelles. Kenya Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association honoured him with the Green and Gold Badges and later on 24 india empire | november 2014
with Life Membership. Manish Rughani, Secretary General of Lohana Sports and Cultural Festival honored Subhash with the First Ever Festival Life Time Achievement Award for his" outstanding contributions to Sports" during the 32nd Lohana Sports and Cultural Festival in Dar es Salaam in 2012. Umpire Subash Modi Subash is also a former Kenya National Cricket Selector. He has organised many cricket tours overseas, organised umpires seminars for the betterment of the umpires and he has trained umpires. No wonder Kenya Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association have bestowed many awards on him. Subash holds the record of umpiring and refereeing for the highest number of matches by a Kenyan umpire. He worked with Ogilvy & Mather advertising company for nearly four decades, and was presented with the William E. Phillips Eagle Award. His eldest son, Hitesh, followed him on the cricket pitch. Starting early in school, Hitesh played for the Kenya national team from 1992 to 2006, among other clubs. After playing as Vice-Captain, Hitesh became the Captain of the Kenya team. As Vice-Captain, he helped his side reach the Semi Finals of the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2003 in South Africa. Hitesh also captained Nairobi Gymkhana and represented Kenya in three ICC Cricket World Cups. Hitesh also played for Kanbis Sports Club in Nairobi and Chesham Cricket Club in UK. Hitesh lives now in UK with his wife and a daughter. Subhash Modi is still active in Umpiring and Match Refereeing in Kenya despite his knee injury last year when he was hit by the cricket ball during the Cricket Kenya Tournament. Hitesh Modi who is a member of M.C.C and Chesham Cricket Club in UK occasionaly plays for MCC and Chesham Cricket Club. Both father and son share many interests. As an umpire, Subash gives no quarters to his son Hitesh. In an interna❐ tional match, Subash declared Hitesh a LBW!
IndIAn dIAsPorA In UK
SiKh ASSoCiAtion
dinner The Rt. Hon. Dr Theresa May MP, Home Secretary, receiving Honorary Doctorate from the World Sikh University presented by the Vice Chancellor, Dr Sukhbir Kapoor OBE
The Rt. Hon. Dr. Theresa May MP, Home Secretary received an honorary doctorate from the World Sikh University, London for her outstanding services to the Public at The British Sikh Association Annual Dinner at the London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square, London on 24th November 2014. The Home Secretary was the Chief Guest at the glittering event and the Guests of Honour were Admiral Sir George Zambellas KCB, DSC, ADC, DL, First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff of the Royal Navy and Dr Virander Paul, Deputy Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. Mrs Tare Naidu of Air India, Mr. Rodger Broad of the IOD. Over 500 distinguished guests were in attendance including: Mr Richard Harrington MP, Member of Parliament for Watford & Vice Chairman of the Conservative Party; Baroness Sandip Verma of Leicester, Minister at the Department of Energy and Climate Change; Lord Meghnad 26 india empire | november 2014
Mr Anthony Wainwright of the Hallmark Group presenting the Limited Edition Sikh Heritage Collection to the Rt. Hon. Dr. Theresa May MP, Home Secretary
Dr Rami Ranger MBE delivering his welcome speech
Admiral Sir George Zambellas, KCB. DSC. ADC, DL, First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff of the Royal Navy addressing guests
Desai of St. Clement Danes in the City of Westminster; Mr Tim Brawn, Director of Fundraising and Communications at the charity ‘Combat Stress’; Mr Ramniklal Solanki CBE, Founder & Editor in Chief of the Asian Media Marketing Group and Mr CB Patel, Chairman & Editor of Asian Business Publications Ltd ; Mr Manpreet Gulati, CEO of Lyca Health; Mrs Tara Naidu, Regional Manager of Air India UK and Mr Rodger Broad, Director at the Institute of Directors – South. The event started with the Eternal Taal group who gave the guests a flavour of Punjab with an exceptional dhol drum performance. The illustrious Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines gave an uplifting two part performance and instilled a sense of pride for Britain in all those present. Dr. Kapoor OBE, Secretary General of the British Sikh Association, in his introductory speech spoke on the history and the special relationship between the British and the Sikhs. Hundreds of thousands of Sikhs played a major role in both world wars in which 83,000 Sikh soldiers were killed and thousands injured and wounded. Sikhs were awarded for their bravery and gal-
lantry in the two world wars. He described the Sikh community as loyal to its cause, honest to the task and truthful to its duties and its members are to be found in many responsible positions. Dr. Kapoor’s introduction was followed by a moving video presentation on the history of the brave and gallant Sikhs in the First World War. The video was presented by Mr Matthew Ward and Ms Gill Fraser-Lee of History Needs You. Dr. Rami Ranger MBE, Chairman of the British Sikh Association in his address reminded those present that it had been 100 years since the start of the First World War and of the Sikh involvement which changed the course of many battles and ultimately the outcome of the war, adding each Sikh is an ambassador for the teachings of the Gurus; the Sikh religion is based on the core principles of human freedom to liberate those who were being oppressed and suppressed in the name of their faith and without the supreme sacrifices of the Sikh Gurus and their followers, the history of India and the world would have been very different. He spoke of our moral duty to work for a united Britain and to
Baroness Sandip Verma of Leicester, Minister at the Department of Energy and Climate Change speaking to attendees
Mr Richard Harrington MP, Member of Parliament for Watford and Vice Chairman of the Conservative Party giving his speech
Dr Virander Paul, Deputy Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom delivering his speech
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IndIAn dIAsPorA In UK
The British Sikh Association Executive Committee presenting a Cheque to Mr Tim Brawn, Director of Fundraising and Communications at the Veterans Mental Health Charity, Combat Stress
build a cohesive society where we respect British values of tolerance, rule of law and respect for women, which are the very values that encapsulate the Sikh religion. Guests were then shown a video presentation of the monumental Guru Nanak Darbar, a Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) that was opened in Dubai, UAE, the very first of its kind in an Arabian Gulf country. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and ruler of Dubai had himself authorised and allocated the land for the Gurudwara to be built. Mr Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman of the Guru Nanak Darbar, Dubai, UAE and Chairman of the AlDowobi Group, UAE was then presented the Sikh Jewel Award by the Rt. Hon. Dr. Theresa May MP, Home Secretary for his exceptional service, dedication and commitment to the Sikh Community. In his acceptance speech Mr Kandhari said that he was deeply honoured and humbled in receiving the prestigious award from the British Sikh Association and thanked the Sikh and Sindhi community in the UAE for their hard work, prayers and support in the blessed opening of the Gurudwara which was 11 years in the making through educating the rulers of the UAE of the history and spirit of the Sikh faith which recognises the human race as one. Member of Parliament for Watford and Vice Chairman of the Conservative Party, Mr Richard Harrington MP, spoke of the similarities between the Sikhs and his own Jewish community, in particular the emphasis on charity and supporting worthy causes like Combat Stress. He finished by saying it was a huge pleasure to be invited to such a prestigious dinner and hoped to be invited again. Deputy Indian High Commissioner to the United 28 india empire | november 2014
Guests enjoying the evening
Kingdom, Dr. Virander Paul paid tribute to the British Sikh community for excelling in all walks of life and becoming one of the most prominent ethnic minorities in the United Kingdom. The Guest of Honour, Admiral Sir George Zambellas, KCB. DSC. ADC, DL, First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff of the Royal Navy spoke of the many battles Sikh soldiers have fought shoulder to shoulder with the British armed forces and paid supreme sacrifices for our freedom. In recognition of the valour and contribution of the Sikhs, two Second World War destroyers had been named HMS Sikh and HMS Punjabi. He added that the Royal Navy is made up of 26 different religious groups who take up arms to defend and not to conquer, helping maritime trade flow more smoothly and had to helped Britain â?? make a trade led recovery out of recession.
InterFAIth conFerence
T
PATHwAY TO PEAcE
he Sikh Religious Society in Palatine, Illinois hosted an Interfaith Peace Conference along with an Open House at their Gurdwara Sahib facilities at 1280 Winnetka Street, Palatine Illinois in November. The topic for the conference was “Service: A Pathway to Peace”. Selfless Service ("Seva") is an integral part of Sikh tenets that the Sikhs learn to practice from their early childhood. About 250 neighbors, friends and spiritual leaders of other faiths gathered at the Gurdwara for the event which was free and open to public. The conference featured eleven speakers from Baha'i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Jain, Jewish, Pagan, Sikh and Zoroastrian faiths representing a kaleidoscope of religious and spiritual perspectives. The open house, fellowship and refreshments began at the Langar Hall. Several exhibition tables with displays of rare books and historical photos including Bhagat Puran Singh were also set up in the main lobby for the visitors to browse around.
The Interfaith Conference started in the Congregation Hall with Sikh prayers lead by Bhai Gurjant Singh for the wellbeing of the whole humanity. The traditional “Hukam” (order for the day) from Siri Guru Granth Sahib was recited in Punjabi and translated in English by Ms. Jasvir Kaur. Gurbani shabad “Ek Pita Ekas Ke Ham Baarak” (we are children of the same Father) was recited by the S.R.S. Gurmat School Children. Prof. Mohanbir Singh Sawhney, McCormick professor of Kellogg School of Business Northwestern University took over as the master of ceremonies for the conference. The conference began with a welcome address by Dr. Jasbir Kaur Saluja, President of the Sikh Religious Society. She welcomed the participants and talked about the importance and uniqueness of having a gathering of such diverse and distinguished religious and spiritual leaders. This was followed by remarks by Sardar Gulbarg Singh Basi, Chairman of the World Sikh Council, Americas Region. Mr. Arun Gandhi kicked off the conference by sharing perspectives from his grandfather Mahatma Gandhi. He re-
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InterFAIth conFerence
Dr Arun Gandhi
Dr Jasbir Kaur Saluja
Dr Mohanbir Singh Sawhney
Gulbarg Singh Basi
Imam Kareem Irfan
Shayda Safapou
Rev Dirk Ficca
Molly Horan
minded us that wasting resources was a form of violence against nature and discriminating against fellow humans was a form of passive violence against humanity. We must practice non-violence in our thoughts as well as our actions. Ms. Shayda Safapour talked of the Baha’i tradition and urged us to spread service as a river of love. Ms. Asayo Horibe, representing the Buddhist faith, told us to be a strong link in the chain of love. If we are all strong links, the chain of love will be strong and peace shall prevail. Reverend Dirk Ficca shared the insight from Jesus’ teachings on service – we need to serve the least among us, not the most powerful. He also reminded us that service is worship in the Christian faith. Mr. Anil Deshpande shared the perspective from the Hindu tradition that the entire universe is a family and it is therefore our duty to serve all humanity. He also shared the work that his organization Seva International is doing. Iman Kareem Irfan shared Prophet Mohamed’s teachings that we need to serve the Creator and we need to serve the Creation. Molly Horan, the Communications Manager for the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions, recounted the great ties that she has shared with the Sikh community and invited everyone present to the Parliament of the World’s Religions to take place from October 15 – 19, 2015 in Salt Lake City. Dr. Hema Pukharna from the Jain faith expanded the notion of service beyond humanity to all living creatures. Non-violence and service to all living beings is a fundamental tenet of Jainism. Dr. Drake Spaeth, representing the Pagan tradition, expanded the idea of service even fur30 india empire | november 2014
ther to include service to Mother Earth and respect for our environment, because Earth sustains us all. Rabbi Lisa Bellows from the Jewish faith exhorted us to put together the shattered pieces of glass that represent fragmented humanity into one vessel of light. Mr. Rohinton Rivetna from the Zoroastrian faith talked about the most ancient of religions and its message of choosing good over evil and right from wrong. Pastor Herbert Martin spoke with great emotion about the beatings he endured as part of the Civil Rights movement and how he learned to forgive those who had hated and beaten him. He shared the profound insight that service begins with us, and that service begins with forgiveness. Gaurav Singh, representing the Sikh religion, reminded us that we should not only think of service – we should be of service. Being of service requires us to serve without expectation of any return. He also shared the importance of service in the Sikh religion as a fundamental tenet of Sikh life. “It was striking how much resonance the major faiths of the world have among them on the concept of service, despite the differences in the beliefs and traditions they represent. The conference inspired us to be of service to all humanity, living beings as well as Mother Earth,” commented Dr. Mohanbir Singh Sawhney of Northwestern University the master of ceremonies. The event was held in collaboration with the World Sikh Council (WSC-AR), and Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions (CPWR) which is head quartered in Chicago. ❐
MAUrItIUs
DREAM ISLAND Mauritius in the southern Indian Ocean is more than an island—it is an alluring destination that never fails to entice the visitor to make repeat visits. Most people return to Mauritius simply because it casts its spell in a manner that other islands simply cannot. Breathtaking oceanic beauty, modern water sports, lovely shimmering white sand beaches, great hospitality, riveting dancers and musicians, a choice of world cuisine and great places to stay—what more can the global traveler really want. The takeaways from the Mauritian experience are many, they even promise to take your breath away
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MAUrItIUs
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hindus welcome incentives Hindus have welcomed offer of incentives for minority ethnic Indian community reportedly announced by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak at Deepavali Open House Celebration in Malacca on November one. Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that this apparent commitment to help the minority ethnic Indian community was a step in the right direction. Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, urged Razak to do more for the Hindu community of Malaysia so that they did not feel left out in south-east Asia’s most vibrant economies and had their share in the fruits of its decades of industrial growth. Hindus had contributed significantly to the building and development of Malaysia, Zed added. Rajan Zed stressed the urgent need of empowering the Hindu community through various means; including creat-
ing helpful business environment for them, better equipping the entrepreneurs, providing more seats in higher-education institutions, etc.
hindus commend Pope
Pope Francis
Hindus have commended His Holiness Pope Francis for highlighting “aloofness” of Europe in his address to European Parliament (EP) in Strasbourg (France) on November 25. “Europe seems to give the impression of being somewhat elderly and haggard, feeling less and less a protagonist in a world which frequently regards it with aloofness, mistrust and even, at times, suspicion,” Pope stated. Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada, also lauded Pope for speaking in EP about abandoned elderly, against “uncontrolled consumerism”, highlighting “respect for the dignity of the human person”, stressing unity in diversity, avoiding “ethical systems lacking kindness”, backing “respect nature” and “restore dignity to labour”, and 36 india empire | november 2014
Rajan Zed
saying “We cannot allow the Mediterranean to become a vast cemetery!” and “building a Europe which revolves not around the economy, but around the sacredness of the human person”. Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, also praised Pope for stressing, in his address to Council of Europe on November 25, “banishing a culture of conflict”, pursuing peace, “contribute to the cultural development of humanity”, “engaging in dialogue”, “ethical reflection on human rights”, “welcoming of migrants”, planet earth “not to be disfigured, exploited, and degraded”; speaking against the “globalization of indifference born of selfishness” and talking about “poor people living in Europe”.
BooK eXcerPts
Among CAmeL
nomAdS Camel Karma Twenty Years Among India’s Camel Nomads Publisher: Tranquebar Press Author: Ilse Köhler-Rollefson Price: INR 595/Pages: 378
The camel is an inextricable part of our Marwari heritage and Rajasthani identity. When Pabuji Rathore brought the first she-camels to Marwar some seven hundred years ago, these animals revolutionized transportation, communication and warfare in the harsh and waterless environment of the Thar Desert. In order to breed and manage them, the unique camel culture of the Rebari or Raika developed. For centuries, this Hindu caste took care of the breeding camel herds of my ancestors and other royal families. They did not only developed an amazing body of traditional knowledge around all aspects of camel husbandry, but also felt responsible for the welfare of this animal. The humane and ethical relationship between the Raika and the camel is one of its kind in the world. It cast a spell over Ilse Köhler-Rollefson when she first came to Rajasthan in 1990 to study camels and their keepers and motivated her to come back again and again and eventually make Rajasthan her permanent home. By now, she has spent almost a quarter of a century living among and listening to the Raika, turning from a researcher into an advocate for the Raika and other traditional livestock keepers. During this period, she was able to witness first-hand how camels lost their meaning as transport animals, how the herds declined and how a unique human-animal relationship began to unravel. In 2005, she, Hanwant Singh Rathore and a Raika team undertook an arduous 800 km long yatra on camelback to draw attention to the situation. In this book, she chronicles this journey as well as many other adventures in a manner that also provides deep insight into rural Rajasthani culture. Ilse’s book comes at the right time, just when the Rajasthan government has decided to declare the camel as state animal and to accord it special heritage protection. It provides important pointers on how Rajasthan’s camel population can be saved from the future and remain part of our Rajasthani identity even in the twenty-first century — for 38 india empire | november 2014
real and not only on glossy photographs: by making full use of its potential for a range of eco-friendly products from its milk, hair and dung, by respecting and protecting it as part of the Thar Desert eco-system, and as a patient and reliable companion animal. I do hope that this book will help the camel to be revived in a new avatar so that it can be cherished by count❐ less future generations as well.
You Never Get out Memories of Two Psychiatric Hospitals Publisher: Trafford Publishing Author: Roger Grainger Pages: 124 Roger Grainger was admitted to a mental hospital in Northern England at age 18 and later trained as an Anglican minister before working as a chaplain of a large mental hospital. Currently, Grainger is an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society and a registered psychologist. Pulling from his own experiences in mental hospitals, Grainger focuses on the gaps of institutional life as well as the humanity of the patients in the semi-autobiographical “You Never Get Out.” “It’s time to take a fresh look at the old hospitals,” said Grainger. “This will help us to answer the question of ‘Were these places just easy answers to mental illness or did they have something of real value to offer?”
coLUMn: yoGI AshwInI
MInd And Body
HOLY AND SAcRED cOw By Yogi Ashwini Yogi ASHwini
T
he first indication of how much weight you are carrying, how much you have deteriorated is how fast the body turns into ash on your funeral pyre. The second is, cow. You must have heard of the phrases – ‘Doodh ki nadiyan beh rahi hain’and ‘khoon ki nadiyan beh rahi hain.’ The former indicates prosperity and latter symbolizes war/strife. Let’s see which of the two fits today’s scenario. Recently the local police informed us about a shocking reality – certain people pick up stray cows from the street, kill them in the car, sell them in the mandi and happily go back home with the money. This is just one example of the kind of atrocities being done on cows these days. How many of you were aware of this? And now that I have told you, how many of you care to do something about it? Hardly anyone. This is what this yug is all about, nobody can think anything beyond himself/herself. The cow is a sign of prosperity, a sign of spiritual evolution. In the earlier yug, it was called ‘Gau dhan’ and in wars the victorious side used to take all the cattle with them. Why? Because the more cows one had, the more prosperous the person would be, the higher would be his/her level of evolution. So the ‘river of milk’ does not mean drinking a lot of milk but it is an indication of prosperity. Those who want to finish this culture; those are the ones who are involved in slaughtering cows the maximum, whichever community or religion they may belong to. When invasions started happening, the first thing these barbaric invaders would do is to kill the cows. They knew that this culture would only be finished when the cow is finished. Today we don’t even need invaders to do the job. We have left our cows to feed on garbage dumps and meet the painful death due to ingestion of plastic. While the invaders could not destroy our culture despite their best efforts, today we are busy bringing our own culture down by not being concerned about what is happening. When you kill an animal, blood oozes out. So, today we are living in an era of ‘khoon ki nadiyan’. We cannot call ourselves prosperous anymore, every person is unhappy and troubled, no matter how much he/she has. Prosperity or aishwarya does not mean that you have abundance of material wealth; it means that you are happy 40 india empire | november 2014
and peaceful as you have everything you need. In today’s times is there even one person who feels that way? No and neither can there be because we have forgotten the basics of the vedic culture - karma, yagya (purification) and service to cow. How can you call yourself vedic if you do not perform havans or take care of the cows? You are busy finding solutions to your problems one after the other, and there is no end to it, because new problems will keep cropping up till the time you do not follow the laws on which this creation is founded. Till that time, creation will keep on devolving more and more. The barbarians (termed mlechha in the vedas) came from extremely cold or extremely hot (desert) regions, where food was scarce as no cultivation was possible. For them, procuring food meant killing the animals, that is all they understood. It is your duty to teach them laws on which creation runs - karma, yagya and nurturing cows. None of you is doing that. You just sit and think after death you will go to heavens and enjoy, but nothing of that sort is going to happen. If you just start spreading the word about these things, the whole creation will change, otherwise the state is already miserable, and it will only get worse. There is a sadhak who gets up every morning to do Surya Vandana. Her neighbours, who are supposedly celebrities, have instructed their guards to create smoke in the morning, just at the time of prayers. Because of the smoke, it is difficult for her to breathe. She asked them to stop, but they just would not budge. These are the indications of kaliyug. This is what the asurs do - create havoc wherever there is a havan, yagya, surya vandana or yog, trouble the rishis and munis, pollute the minds. You don’t realise how much smoke you take in everyday from the nearby generators and from the leaves that guards burn to keep themselves warm in winters. When you breathe such air, you are bound to fall sick. And yet, you do not stop them. So you yourself are responsible for your devolution and that of the creation. The time of asurs has come again and if you don’t wake up soon, you will spell ❐ your own doom. —The writer Yogi Ashwini Ji is the head of Dhyan Foundation, Delhi. For details contact: ashwiniyogi@yahoo.co.in
BooK on GAdAr—A seLect story
TARAK NATH DAS
Tarak Nath Das
arak Nath Das was born into a middle class family in 1884 in the 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. At the tender age of 16, Das was quick to impress the noted barrister P Mitter with his style while taking part in an essay-writing contest on the one burning and overarching theme of the time—patriotism. Mitter, himself a committed nationalist, happened to be judging the contest. Spotting the spark in the young man, Mitter had him recruited into his organization, Anushilan Samiti. Those days, the Samiti was a platform for revolutionaries who constantly dreamt about freeing their motherland from the British.
T
EARLY DAYS IN BENGAL AND ESCAPE Since he had a way with words, Das’ writings in several platforms usually hit home the message with clarity and aroused plenty of passion. His written exhortations, though, vexed the British, and they kept a close watch on him. Wellwishers worried by his confrontationist ways, advised him to get away, lest he be arrested. He was advised to visit countries that were sympathetic with the cause of Indian independence, places where his voice would have more impact and meaning. Das was even advised to undergo military training, such that in future he could organize an armed revolution to overthrow the British. Das understood well that it was better to be safe, than sorry. India would benefit more if he remained free, rather than incarcerated. Dressed as a wandering beggar to escape attention, he left Bengal and found his first pit-stop at Madras. Speech after fiery speech later, he was hailed as the new Bipin Chandra Pal. Some even put him in the league of Swami Vivekananda for his ability to inspire. As his reputation grew, so did the risks of arrest.
Once again, disguised, he set sail for Japan, but not before the British were somehow alerted. Instructions were issued to the British ambassador in Japan to seek his extradition upon his arrival. Getting wind of an impending arrest, Das hoodwinked port authorities, instead finding a way to reach the USA. In 1906, he was in Seattle, a city that is home today to giant software firms. INDIAN VOICE To make ends meet, Das began initially as a farm hand in Seattle. At the end of the farming day, he would ask his Indian colleagues, the majority of whom were Sikhs, to collect together. He would then motivate them to take up the cause of Indian nationalism, and freeing India from being a state ruled by the British. But he was clearly not going to remain content as a farm hand. He had great intellectual capability and proven writing skills. On the lines on which he had been advised by his well-wishers in Calcutta, Das set up a mouthpiece journal called Free Hindustan. The name said it all— India needed to be free, and the readers were urged to take up that cause in no uncertain terms. The journal fed its readers with news about atrocities and injustices being committed by the British in India. It fuelled passions, and the Indian community in the USA and Canada was ready to revolt. It helped that Das was also in regular contact with leading thinkers of the time such as Tolstoy, Hyndman and Madam Cama. Apart from the journal, Das also set up the Hindustan Association in Vancouver. Within no time, Das became the voice of the Indian immigrant community. A NEW MOVE Somewhere along the line, Das also landed himself a job
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BooK on GAdAr
TARAK NATH DAS
as an interpreter with the Department of Immigrations in Canada and was posted at Vancouver. His job was to ensure that no Indians gained entry into Canada. But the job actually provided him an opportunity to help Indians. Secretly by tutoring and coaching them, he began to ensure that they had the skills to safely negotiate the interrogators at Immigration and get into Canada. But the good times were not to last. A former member of the Calcutta Police Information Service, William C Hopkinson was appointed as Immigration Inspector by the Canadian Government. Hopkinson’s primary role was to keep an eye on Das, and other Indian radicals. It wasn’t long before the secrets were out. Das’ anti-British activities threw him straight into the hot water. After all, his enemies were ubiquitous, and the eyes and ears of the Government seemed present at all times. EXPELLED FROM CANADA Embarrassed by his anti-British activities, his employers gave him a choice—stop the journal or resign. Das chose the latter option and resigned from his job. And instead of stopping his activities, he became more organized. He opened a home for the children of the Indian immigrants which also doubled up as an evening school for adults to teach them English and Mathematics apart from nationalism. His growing influence within the migrant community made him an eyesore for the authorities and Hopkinson was able to get him expelled from Canada. Das returned to Seattle in 1908 and continued to bring out the Free Hindustan. By now, the journal was widely read not only by the Indian community, but also by revolutionaries like Irishman George Freeman. LIFE IN THE USA Das was now ready for the next part of his training. He joined the Norwich University, Vermont, to obtain military training. He completed his training and applied for enlistment with the Vermont National Guard. But diplomatic pressure from the British forced the authorities to ask him to leave the training program. By 1909, Das returned to Seattle. He enrolled at the University of Washington and completed his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. He was active in student politics while continuing with his education. He was awarded the UW’s first graduate fellowship in political science to conduct independ-
ent research on employers’ liability law. Das obtained an M.A. and teaching certificate in 1911. Alongside his nationalist agenda, Das was involved in activities like the Cosmopolitan Club of his university. One of the members of the club was a professor who helped serve as a reference for him when he applied for US citizenship. Das was also instrumental in founding the Hindusthan Association of America, a non-political organization intended to support Indian students in the U.S. After graduating from the UW, Das went to Berkeley, where he enrolled in a doctoral program but never finished. Instead, he continued his revolutionary activities. During this period, Das came in contact with Lala Har Dayal and they shared their common objective – the overthrow of the British from Indian soil and armed revolt was their chosen method. Soon after, in 1914, Das finally got his US citizenship. This could not have happened at a more opportune time. Das was now out of the reach of the British government. He travelled to Germany, now on the brink of war, to secure funds for an armed revolt in India. In the meantime, he received the disheartening news of the failure of the Gadar movement because of the betrayal from within. In 1917 Das returned to the USA to face the charge of conspiring to violate the Neutrality Act. He and other conspirators were convicted in the HinduGerman Conspiracy case in San Francisco and Das was sentenced to 22 months in the penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas. After his release in 1924, Tarak married his long-time friend and benefactress Mary Keatinge Morse. He went on an extended tour of Europe with his wife and made Munich his headquarters for his activities. It was there that he founded the India Institute, that awarded scholarships to meritorious Indian students who pursued higher studies in Germany. On his return to the United States, Tarak was appointed as the professor of political science at the Columbia University and also a Fellow of the Georgetown University. With his wife, he opened Tarak Nath Das Foundation in 1935 which has been offering academic fellowships to Indian students in the US. Das visited India a few years after Independence. His happiness at seeing India free was dampened by the partition of the country. Das taught at various universities till he died in ❐ 1958.
© The GADAR heROICS | Published by: India empire Publications 42 india empire | november 2014
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