Indian News Queensland - March 2020 - Vol 3 Issue 6

Email: info@indiannewsqld.com.au Web: www.indiannewsqld.com.au Phone: 1300 859 066 FREE COPY

MARCH 2020 Vol 3 Issue 6

'America loves India': Trump tells Indians in Motera

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Donald Trump during the Namaste Trump event at Motera Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on Feb 24

PAGE 6 BRISBANE HOLI

PAGE 14 YATRA HOLI SANDHYA www.indiannewsqld.com.au

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ithout sounding too despondent, coronavirus is getting worse by the day, with more than 90,000 cases reported worldwide and over 3100 deaths. China is, of course, the worst hit with over 2900 deaths, and I hear that there have been 30 or so more deaths in the past few days. Italy, Iran and South Korea are in a bad situation as well.

As to the economics of it all, the overall global economy and the stock markets have really taken it on the chin. In a report published in BBC right before we went to print, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a globally influential economics think tank, warned that global growth ‘could halve’ if the virus worsens. On the stock market, companies and investors lost $6 trillion, big number, in wealth due to sell-off in the last week of February over coronavirus scare.

On a positive note, US President Donald Trump seems to have really embraced Indians snugly. As he emphatically said in Motera: "America Loves India." We have covered his visit from various angles on pages 3 and 4, and despite BrisAsia as a close second, this had to make it as our cover feature. And yes, the BrisAsia event Brisbane Holi was another happy experience locally, which was very well received by public as more than a thousand revelers turned up.

Also, Shivratri celebrations were organised by many organisations / temples in Brisbane and around, and we have covered the major ones inside.

My genuine congratulations to the new FICQ President Shyam Das Ji, in whose managerial and organisational abilities, I have full confidence. With him at the helm, FICQ is looking at its golden period ahead. I, as you may know, am the outgoing president.

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Trump wows mammoth Indian crowd at Motera stadium

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fter trying his hand at spinning yarn on Mahatma Gandhi's 'charkha' in Sabarmati Ashram, US President Donald Trump enthralled a mammoth audience at the world's largest cricket stadium in Motera, Ahmedabad.

From his references about India's philosophical and cultural icons to striking hard against the common enemy terrorism, President Trump, in his maiden speech during his first state visit to India, weaved a broad narrative in exaltation of India as a modern and assertive democracy in alignment with American values.

On their way to Motera cricket stadium where the 'Namaste Trump' event was organised in his honour, the US President and his wife Melania stopped by for a few minutes at the Sabarmati Ashram, the house from where Mahatma Gandhi led his salt 'Satyagraha', 90 years ago.

A US delegation including Trump's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner accompanied them from the Ahmedabad airport to the Ashram. Enroute, the cavalcade was greeted by thousands of people.

At the Ashram, Trump tried his hand on Gandhi's 'charkha' or spinning wheel, while the First Lady and Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood by him.

In a strong pitch on US-India friendship, President Trump said that he had come all the way from 8,000 miles across the world because "America loves India, America respects India and America will always remain a loyal friend to the Indian people. From this day on, India will always hold a special place in our hearts."

Both the countries, he said, had been hurt by terrorism and are united in defending citizens from its threat. "Our borders will always be closed to terrorists and extremists.

Anyone who threatens our security, will pay a big price," he said amid loud cheers.

Trump boasted about his government's accomplishments against terrorism. "Under my administration we unleashed the full power of American military on bloodthirsty killers of ISIS. Today ISIS territorial caliphate is 100 percent destroyed. The monster Al Baghdadi (ISIS chief ) is dead," he said.

Without mentioning Jammu & Kashmir which was reorganised and whose special status was withdrawn by the Modi government last year inviting censure from Democrats in the US, President Trump made an oblique comment seemingly in support of India. "Every nation has a right to exercise its sovereignty and secure its borders," he said.

Incidentally, this has been the official line of India in response to the criticism in the US. During his almost half-hour speech, Trump showed deep admiration for Indian democracy, its values and diversity, spiritual, cultural and social icons and Prime Minister Modi's leadership, evoking exceptional applause from his audience. Trump referred to icons like Mahatma Gandhi, spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda, cricket star Sachin Tendulkar, Bollywood classic DDLJ, and India's moon mission Chandrayaan, among many other things.

Trump commended Modi's rise from a humble background in Gujarat to the highest position in New Delhi. "It is an incredible and

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump address Joint Press Meet at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Feb 25 moving story. Everybody loves him, but I tell you, he is very tough," he said amidst echoes of "Modi, Modi". He expressed admiration for the landslide victory with which Modi returned to power in the 2019 general election.

Recalling that Modi as a young man had worked as a tea-seller, Trump said that his example demonstrated that there was "limitless promise in this great nation." With hard work, India can accomplish anything it wants, he said. "We are very, very proud of India," he said, adding that the two countries shared a common philosophical foundations and outlook for democracy, liberty and equality.

India, he said, was inspiring as a "democratic country, peaceful country, towering country, a great, free country." These values, he said, made all the difference as against those who exercise "coercion, intimidation and aggression".

Trump said this is why India is "accomplished and unrivalled" and this is why India and US shared a "natural, beautiful and enduring friendship."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump with Mahatma Gandhi's spinning wheel (charkha) during their visit to the Sabaramati Ashram in Ahmedabad

Happiness curriculum charms Melania, Bhangra kid amuses her

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or nearly one hour, US First Lady Melania Trump had the firsthand experience of the Delhi government's much-talked about 'happiness curriculum' at Sarvodaya School in South Moti Bagh, New Delhi on Feb 25.

The US first Lady was accorded a traditional welcome with 'aarti' and was garlanded by students. Sporting a tilak, Melania Trump spent the time at a classroom and watched 24 students and their teachers seeking nothing but happiness.

Siddharth, one of the students in the class, said the First Lady enquired about mindfulness and also the activities in happiness classes. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

She played puzzles with students, and also briefly occupied the class teacher's chair and quizzed them. Paintings and stickers in the classroom, depicting human behaviour, caught her attention.

She was impressed with thrust on compassion and empathy as part of the happiness curriculum.

"I can't think of a better way to start our day with than this," the First Lady said and added, she was "inspired" by the happiness curriculum. She advised students to be "good to each other" throughout their life and thanked teachers for inculcating good values in them.

While students were performing bhangra dance, one student

-- Gaganjit -- started dancing spontaneously on the beats, much to the First Lady's amusement.

While her security apparatus went into tizzy, Melania Trump enjoyed it thoroughly. As the cameras caught Gaganjit dancing away to glory, the First Lady could be seen laughing and clapping for him.

Before leaving, she wished students success and obliged almost everyone who walked up to her to shake hands. She also thanked the educators for their efforts. "I want to thank all educators for setting a positive example and giving skills, knowledge to students," said the US First Lady.

US First Lady Melania Trump interacts with students during her visit to Sarvodaya school in Delhi's Moti Bagh area

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Indian News Queensland | LOCAL AND NATIONAL

Foreigners feel 'blessed' to Ivanka sports Anita see Taj the day Trump visited Dongre outfit for

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he foreign tourists who arrived in this historic city on Feb 24 to see Taj Mahal said they were "lucky" and "felt blessed" to visit the 17th century monument on the day of US President Donald Trump's visit.

When asked if he saw Taj Mahal, Keith Clarke, a tourist from England said, "Of course, I visited Taj in the morning before the US President's arrival.

Another foreign tourists, Sua Clarke said she was amazed as the US

President was coming the same day to see Taj Mahal. Sua, in her late 50s, said it was her first visit to India and was stunned by the cleanliness of the city.

On folk artists' performance in the city, she said, "We loved the performance. And they too were enjoying while performing." Artists' performance was part of programme to welcome the First US Couple.

Alan, who also arrived at Agra from the UK, said it was a lovely experience to find the Taj Mahal cleaned properly. "I heard that

Catherine Caley, a foreign tourist who visited the Taj Mahal on the day US President Donald Trump visited the 17th century monument

Foreign tourists enjoy a performance by a folk artiste during US President Donald Trump's visit to Agra, on Feb 24

Trump invites India Inc to invest 'billions' in the US

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S President Donald Trump invited India Inc to invest "billions" of dollars in the US to reap the benefit of tax and regulation cuts that his administrations has implemented.

On Feb 25, the second and final day of his visit, Trump interacted with top honchos of India Inc including RIL's Mukesh Ambani, Aditya Birla Group's Kumar Mangalam Birla and Tata Group's N. Chandrasekaran amongst others at the business round table event organised at the US Embassy in Delhi.

Inviting India Inc to invest in the US economy to create jobs, he talked about an upcoming tax cut for the American middle class and how that unemployment in the US was at a record low.

The US President said that the US economy was performing very well and that the consumers there have more disposable incomes due to growing numbers of jobs.

the Taj's mausoleum were cleaned and the fresh mud wrapping were put on the graves of emperor (Shahjahan) and empress (Mumtaz)," he said.

Catherine Caley, also among the group, said her first visit to India had become memorable. "My trip to Agra and the Taj is one of the best moments of my life as before getting married I saw the monument on the day when the US President visited the historic site on same day along with his family."

Thanking Indian industry for creating jobs in the US, he said that governments can only aid in employment generation, but it's the private industry which actually creates jobs.

However, the US might not sustain healthy economic performance, if he is not re-elected, he said, adding the unemployment rates might soar if he doesn't get a second term.

On the markets, Trump contended that his re-election will swell the stock markets, while a defeat will lead to a massive crash.

The US Presidential Election is scheduled during November this year.

ceremonial welcome

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lways the one to be dressed for the occasion, Ivanka Trump on Feb 25 joined her father and US President Donald Trump during the ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan dressed in all white.

Ivanka was seen in a white sherwani and pants created by designer Anita Dongre which featured a Nehru

collar and enamel coat buttons. She accessorised her look with a pair of traditional polki earrings set in gold.

Sharing a picture of Ivanka on her Instagram handle, Dongre wrote: "@ivankatrump looks lovely in our classic handwoven Suruhi Sherwani."The dress is made of handwoven Murshidabadi silk with metallic button-down details.

Ivanka wears Anita Dongre for ceremonial welcome

Trump a valued friend of India, says President Kovind

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n honour of the visiting US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, President Ram Nath Kovind on Feb 25 hosted a banquet that was also attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his cabinet colleagues, and other dignitaries from both sides.

Welcoming the US President, Kovind said: "President Trump's participation in the 'Howdy, Modi!' event had already won the hearts of millions of Indians. The 'Namaste Trump' has brought him even closer to our people. It is the first time that an event of such scale was held in India to welcome a foreign leader.

"It shows the goodwill and respect that the people of India have for the US and for President Trump."

Terming Trump a valued friend of India, he said that India "appreciates the progress in India-US relations in his term in office, the US as a long-term friend and a natural partner".

President Ram Nath Kovind receives US President Donald Trump and US First Lady Menalia Trump at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi

Taj Mahal inspires awe: Trump

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S President Donald Trump along with First Lady Melania Trump, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner and top US officials visited the monument of love Taj Mahal at Agra on Feb 24. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

"Taj Mahal inspires awe, a timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture! Thank you, India," US President Donald trump wrote in the visitor book at the Taj.

First Lady Melania Trump shares a warm moment with a student during her visit to Sarvodaya school in Delhi's Moti Bagh area to witness Delhi government run schools' happiness curriculum

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Brisbane Holi bigger and more colourful this year

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risbane Holi: Festival of Colours, a part of the Brisbane City Council’s BrisAsia Festival, took place on February 29, at Rocks Riverside Park, Seventeen Miles Rocks.

Widely seen as one of the biggest multicultural events in Queensland, the colourful festival this year saw an even bigger crowd turn-out than last year's as more than a thousand people had gathered at the venue.

As the festival is known to bring out the sentiments of friendship and unity among all and sundry, people belonging to various races, colours and communities could be seen together. The mix crowd of all races and communities danced

to the Bollywood music and had fun throwing colours at each other till late in the evening. The event, indeed, was true to its tagline "Let's colour everyone equal".

The yearly event, in its fourth year now, was made even more fun with live DJ music, Bollywood dances, multicultural performances and non-stop supply of colours.

Mr Paviter Kumar Noori, the community producer at BrisAsia Festival of Brisbane City Council, helped organise the event, along with volunteers from the host Indian Cultura & Sports Club. Brisbane City Council's BrisAsia Festival and the Queensland Government were the main sponsors of the event.

Photos: Kim Borg (Ozwide Photography)

Bhangra team at the event

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More than a thousand people had gathered to partake in the festivities

Cr Angela Owen (3rd right) on stage with others

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The mix crowd of all races and communities enjoyed at the multicultural event

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Palani O. Thevar, Labor Candidate for Maiwar, Queensland

Charis Mullen MP, State Member for Jordan (right) and Milton Dick MP, Federal Member for Oxley (centre)

BrisBazaar held in Aspley

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risAsia Bazaar, as a part of Brisbane City Council’s BrisAsia Festival, took place at the Aspley Central in Aspley on February 15.

With various performances, a fashion show, food demonstrations, arts and craft stalls and food stalls, the event saw Brisbanites treated to a whole lot of fun, food and culture.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner also came at the event along with his team of councillors.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner (left) present at the event with his team of councillors and Mr Paviter Kumar Noori (right)

GCHCA celebrates Holi in Southport

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he Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) celebrated Holi at Broadwater Parklands, Southport, in Gold Coast on March 1.

The event was open to people of all races and cultures, and the revelers could be seen enjoying not just throwing colours at each other but also rain dance and having fun with fire engine.

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Lord Shiva revered at Vedanta Centre

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"

m Namaha Shivaya", this ‘panchakshari mantra’ (five-letter sacred word) echoed the spacious and serene prayer hall at the Vedanta Centre in Springfield Lakes. The occasion was the auspicious day of the worship of Lord Shiva on Shivaratri.

On the evening of February 21, devotees started gathering at the Vedanta Centre by 6:30 pm.

The vesper service (arati) to Sri Ramakrishna started soon, and Suresh Radhakrishnan filled the hall with sonorous chants from the Vedas and other scriptures about the glory of Lord Shiva. This created a meditative mood.

It was followed by Atul Deshpande’s rendering of hymns on Lord Shiva and devotional songs (bhajans) by Nahendran Subramaniam, Shankar Kotha, Unni Nair and others.

Swami Atmeshananda performed worship of Lord Shiva. There is a famous hymn on Lord Shiva which goes thus:

ātmātvaṃgirijāmati: sahacarā: prāṇā: śarīraṃgṛhaṃ pūjāteviṣayopabhogaracanānidrās amādhisthiti: | saṃcāra: padayo: pradakṣiṇavidhi: stotrāṇisarvāgiro yadyatkarmakaromitattadakhilaṃ śambhotavārādhanam || The meaning is "Thou art my Self (Ātmā); my intelligence is Girijā (one born of the Himalayas, i.e., consort of Lord Shiva); my life forces, sense-organs, are Your attendants; my body is Your abode (Temple of the Lord); experiencing the objective world is Your worship; my sleep is the state of samādhi; moving about with two feet is circumambulating You, O Lord; all the words and speeches are hymns about You; whatever action I perform, O Lord Shambu, it is all Your worship alone."

Lord Shiva is present everywhere and in everything. The hymn reminds us that the worship of the

Lord should not be confined to temples or special occasions only.

It should become a part of our everyday life.

After the formal worship by the Swami, one by one devotees worshipped the symbol of the Lord Shiva – the lingam with milk, curds, ghee, honey, water, bilva leaves and flowers.

The programme ended with distribution of consecrated food (prasad).

Swami Atmeshananda Ji performing Shiva pooja

MAQ holds Malayalam classes for kids

There are currently 40 kids enrolled, with six members of the community volunteering as teachers

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alayalee Association of Queensland (MAQ) restarted the Bhoomi Malayalam programme, the language classes for kids held every fortnight, after the school holidays on February 9.

Inaugurated on November 2, 2019 at St Philips Anglican Church Hall, Annerley, Bhoomi Malayalam is the Malayalam language class initiated

by MAQ as part of its primary objective of preserving Malayalee language, culture and heritage while assimilating in the local society.

"Language is a very important part of this agenda, and Bhoomi Malayalan came out of this desire to improve language skills amongst the younger generation of our community. Though Malayalam classes were held in an informal way a few years back, this is a more structured format," read a statement by the Malayalee organisation.

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There are currently 40 kids enrolled, with six members of the community volunteering as teachers. They conduct 2-hour sessions every fortnight. The teachers follow the curriculum developed by Malayalam Mission Kerala and Vipanchika Melbourne, and painstakingly try to make these classes as interesting, fun and educative for the kids as possible.

The popularity of the classes can be gauged from the fact that there are several kids on the waiting list. To accommodate more kids and to ease the pressure on current teachers, MAQ is seeking assistance from within the community.

MAQ also holds cultural events like Onam, Christmas and Vishu/Easter, sporting events like badminton and cricket tournaments, fundraisers for natural calamities like drought and bushfire, blood donation and bone marrow donor drives as part of societal obligations.

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Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Gayatri Mandir organises Shivaratri celebrations

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indu Society of Queensland's Gayatri Mandir in Boondall held its Shivaratri celebrations for three days from Feb 19 to Feb 21.

Three days of Shiv Katha was recited by Pundit Sanat Pandey with the presence of Pundit Suresh Shandil, Pundit Brijesh Maharaj, and Pundit Satya Narayan Sharma.

The function was well attended by devotees. After the prayers and prachar in the evening, aarti was done, and the devotees were served the prasad and mahaprasad daily.

Maha Shivaratri means "The Night

of Shiva". This is a festival observed in honor of Lord Shiva. It is said that, once upon a time, Shiva was very pleased and liberated all devotees who worshiped at night during Nisith Kal in four stages.

Many stories are written regarding this in Vedas and Puran.

People repeat the Khatakshar Mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” and Panchakshara Mantra “Shivaya Namah” as it is said that he who utters the name of Shiva during shivaratri, with perfect devotion and concentration, is freed from all sins. He is liberated from the wheel of births and deaths.

Shivaratri celebrated Shivaratri event at Sri Kamakshi held in Sri Selva Ekambareswara Dhaam Vinayakar temple

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Phaneendra and Saranya Gari generously donated $1000 to SKED temple on Shivaratri

Shivratri celebrations at Sri Selva Vinayakar Temple, Brisbane

ri Selva Vinayakar Ganesha Temple organised Shivaratri celebrations on Feb 21 in Brisbane. Four abhishekam were done during the celebrations.

The first one was done soon after

t an all-night jagaran event in Sri Kamakshi Ekambareswara Dhaam, Shivaratri was celebrated by devotees on Feb 21.

Rudra abhishekam was done four times, along with Shiva Sahasranama Bilva Archana (1008 names) and offering of aarati. Hanuman chalisa was recited as well as Shiva songs were sung.

Along with a couple of tea breaks during the night-long event, prasad was served at 9pm. Pandit Hari Ji performed the Kailash and Ganesha pooja as well as final Shiva aarti at 5am.

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the start of the celebrations at 6:30pm and the fourth one at 3:30am after a night of pooja and prayers. Prasadam was served in the morning at 5am after the final pooja.

MARCH 2020

11

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12

Indian News Queensland | FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

FICQ organises Community Leaders Forum, elects new Executive Committee

F

ederation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), the umbrella body of various Indian organisations of Queensland, organised the Community Leaders' Forum as well as held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Milton on February 23.

At the Community Leaders' Forum, the future of FICQ was put in perspective during the conversation with the organisation's outgoing president, Dr Ram Mohan, and his team of executive committee members.

At the forum, the discussion areas raised by the member organisations included what more can FICQ be doing, the umbrella body's role in future, issues and concerns of various Indian communities, unity among member organisations, new immigrants and students coming from India, and the growing number of senior citizens within the Indian communities of Queensland.

FICQ also elected its new president as well as the Executive Committee members. During the AGM, Mr Shram Das of Target Travel and Tours was elected as the president for the 2-year term, 2020-2022. Mr Parminder Singh and Mr Anoop Nannuru were elected as the two vice presidents.

In his annual AGM report, the outgoing FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan highlighted the achievements of FICQ as well as major events organised by the Federation, touching on major events during his tenure, such as Diwali 2019 celebrations in King George Square in Brisbane City, India-Australia Day celebrations on January 26, farewell reception organised by FICQ for the High Commissioner His Excellency Dr Ajay Gondane, high tea for His Excellency Mr. Anumula Gitesh on his appointment as High Commissioner of India to Australia.

He concluded his address by thanking all the Indian organisations representatives for working for the betterment of the various Indian communities. "I thoroughly enjoyed working for the Indian community in this role. The things I witnessed over the past two four years really warmed my heart and exposed a very caring, loving community whose desire is to truly solidify our cultures diversity in Queensland," Dr Mohan said.

The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland Inc. (FICQ) has been the peak umbrella body for all Indian associations in the state of Queensland since 1997.

FICQ's 2020 member organisations'representatives

Outgoing FICQ President Dr Ram Mohan detailing the organisation's achievements during his tenure

Representatives of various member organisations present at the AGM

FICQ – New Executive Committee (2020-2022)

President Mr. Shyam Das comes with a rich social experience, which includes having held the position of past president and founding member of Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), Queensland Chapter. Under his leadership, GOPIO organised many events, from social functions to fundraisers for charities, with one of the main events being the iconic “India Day Fair” at Roma Street Parkland.

He had been involved with many social welfare activities and charities in the past, for instance: • Flood victims in Queensland, earthquake in New Zealand, free BBQ to raise funds for the victims of bushfire, earthquake/flood in Japan, and victims of Tsunami.

• Homeless children in India, and “India Bazaar” organised for several years at the Mt Gravatt Show Ground as one of the committee members.

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Vice president Mr. Parminder Singh is working as a high school teacher (Science and Mathematics) in Queensland. He is passionate about expansion and outreach of FICQ to reach every Indian by origin in Queensland. He believes in uniting and strengthening all the Indian communities under one umbrella and making Indian communities stronger and more successful through networking and support mechanism.

Public Relations Officer Dr. Venkat Pulla is a community development professional with formal social work qualifications. Social services not only provided him the bread and butter but also gave him intensive pro bono opportunities to work with Indian communities.

It is reassuring to see that individuals with passion to assist people-in-need exist in our communities, whom the needy can reach for counselling and support.

Vice president Mr Anoop Nannuru has been a part of the FICQ for many years, having excellent exposure to community services as well as co-ordination of large events like FICQ Diwali.

Treasurer Mr. Raphy Alappatt is a chartered accountant having over 18 years of professional experience in accounting, financial management, budgeting and taxation. His professional experience both in public and private and working knowledge as a treasurer give him a strong foundation to continue his service to the FICQ as its treasurer.

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Secretary Mr. Ganesh Deshpande has demonstrated professional experience in fulfilling statutory requirements, contractual obligations, professional documentation and building consensus across teams and stakeholders.

Ganesh has previously served FICQ as the assistant treasurer and managed Grants Management Portfolio for FY 2019-20.

Assistant Secretary Mr. Bala Rajan has been an active member of various community organisations in Queensland and New Zealand offering his services towards community wellbeing. He is passionate about supporting and helping our community to resolve issues and help with the betterment of our community.

MARCH 2020

13

Indian News Queensland | DANCE AND MUSIC

Sold-out Holi Sandhya captivates audience in Brisbane

A

s part of the BrisAsia 2020 Festival, Brisbanites were treated to a classic musical evening – Holi Sandhya – A Celestial Journey, featuring over 40 artists, including multicultural instrumentalists, dancers and two strings ensembles. The music group Yatra's event entertained and enthralled close to 400 people on February 22 at QUT Gardens Theatre in Brisbane.

Commemorating the Indian festival of Holi at twilight (sandhya), Holi Sandhya brought the passion and energy of various artists to produce an enchanting and soul-stirring mix of dance and music.

Featuring some of Brisbane’s best instrumentalists and contemporary dancers and supported by Yatra Sitar ensemble and Jindalee Senior Strings ensemble, the evening took the audience through a celestial journey of contemporary music and dance, depicting the belief in Hindu mythology that Nava Grahas (9 celestial bodies) cast their influence on the energy of human beings on Earth.

As a solo artist in Australia Sudha has performed traditional Indian classical music on a number of platforms and has collaborated with other diverse artists to compose, create and perform fusion / world music. Considered one of the finest sitar players in Queensland, in 2018 she was the featured artist at the Commonwealth Games 2018 hosted at Gold Coast.

She performed the Sitar along with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra for “Parade of Nations” at the 2018 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony on April 4, 2018. She has showcased the sitar and participated in

interactive music performance at the Woman of the World 2018 (WOW).

She was also the “wild card” artist for the Bliss Concert performing with Camerata (Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra) at the QPAC concert hall and Toowoomba.

Most recently, Sudha has formed a prodigious group called 'Yatra', whose roots are steeped in Indian classical music. Meaning a journey, 'Yatra' is a neoclassical band comprising sitars, didgeridoo, percussion, tabla, and vocals, and creates a perfectly orchestrated sound evoking a cocktail of emotions. Yatra has performed on many platforms, such as, Queensland Diwali Festival, Festival of Chariots, BrisAsia 2019, to name a few.

Meaning a journey, Yatra, whose roots are steeped in Indian classical music, is a neoclassical band comprising sitars, didgeridoo, percussion, tabla, and vocals. Together Yatra creates a perfectly orchestrated sound evoking a cocktail of emotions.

Some of the prominent guests who attended the event were Senator Paul Scarr , Hon Consul of India in Qld, Mrs Archana Sigh, BrisAsia production manager Paviter Kumar Noori, Dr Ram Mohan, Mahadevan Shankar, Pushpinder Oberoi, among others. Sanchia and Dominic Bell were the MCs at the event.

The Gold Sponsors of the event were Glamour Beauty Salon, Springfeild City Group, Coeus Advisors and Varnaa Handlooms. Media partners were Jonathan Leonard Dass from Dass Photography, Simar Dhindsa from Dhindsa Photography and Indian News Queensland.

The entire crew on stage

(From left) Allan John, Paviter Kumar Noori, (From left) Senator Paul Scarr, Sudha Manian, Mrs Mohan, Dr Ram Mohan, Pushpinder Oberoi, Hon Consul Archana Singh, Pushpinder Oberoi, Karla Oberoi Karla oberoi

(From left) Paviter Kumar Noori, Ashok Manian, (From left) Fenil, Ashok Manian, Suneel Oberoi, Senator Paul Scarr, Karla Oberoi, Pushpinder Sudha Manian, Ambi Oberoi, with Ruchi on the Oberoi, Mahadevan Shankar right

Jindalee State School's senior strings ensemble

Master Rohan Manian on tabla www.indiannewsqld.com.au

Sudha Manian on sitar Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/IndianNewsQueensland

Young MC of the event, Sanchia Manian MARCH 2020

14

Indian News Queensland | DANCE AND MUSIC

Bollywood Musical fundraiser organised

F

eaturing popular songs from the contemporary and classic Bollywood movies, Sargam Music Academy organised a musical fundraiser, Bollywood Musical, at the Lighthouse Community and Event Centre, Forest Lake, on February 8.

Live band and local singers from the music academy performed on stage, and there was a Bollywood dance performance by the Australian Indian Theatre Group. Tickets were priced $50 for Platinum, $25 for Gold and only $15 for kids.

Photos: Peter Cabral Photography Acedemy singers in the middle of their performance

Dancers during their act on stage

Antakshiri competition organised

T

he 10th Antakshiri competition was organised by Hindu Society of Queensland on February 8 at Coorparoo Secondary College.

There were 16 competitors, out of whom eight pairs were formed by

the anchor Mr Deepak Kumar. First prize was claimed by Chandra Bhan and Deo Chand, second prize by Phyllis Patel and Raymond Maharaj and third prize by Lata Kumar and Priya Sharma.

On harmonium was Dr Vijay Phalad, dholak was by Hari Mani,

guitar was played by Vijay Rai and tabla by Dharesh Singh. The guest artists were Himaansu Kumar, Manesha Halka, Deepak Kumar and Dr Vijay Phalad.

The three judges were Dr Jamal Surinder, Manju Jehu and Dewakaran Morthy.

The 16 participants on stage

Winners on stage www.indiannewsqld.com.au

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MARCH 2020

15

Indian News Queensland | FASHION

A starry affair at Lakme Fashion Week

L

akme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2020 saw Bollywood divas like Shradhha Kapoor, Tara Sutaria, Esha Gupta and Soha Ali Khan walk the ramp as showstoppers. Actress Alaya Furniturewala and Indian women cricket captain for ODI Mithali Raj also made their debut on the ramp.

Soha walked the ramp for designer Shahin Mannan, wearing skirt navy, flared skirt and corset, both profusely embroidered with travel motifs.

Esha Gupta sashayed on the ramp in a heavily encrusted mini skirt, bralette and shaded sheer shirt, to close the show for designer Preeti Jain Nainutia, who unveiled her ocean-inspired collection.

Fresh talent Tara swirled down the ramp for designer Punit Balana, wearing a pale pink silk shimmering lehenga with tantalising latkans, a gleaming choli and dupatta.

Mithali walked the ramp for designer Payal Singhal in association with Corcal Bone and Beauty, while Ayala tuned showstopper for fashion label SVA by designer duo Sonam and Paras Modi. The former was wearing a pale blush off shoulder

top and lehenga with applique and zardosi work.

Singhal unveiled her SR 2020 collection titled "Parvaneh" (Persian for 'Butterfly'), applauding the free-spirited wanderer as she sets off on her quest through life to be #BeautifullyStrong. Inspired by 'Chrysalis', the transitional state as a caterpillar blossoming into a butterfly, the collection expresses modernism through the language of traditional Indian art.

South Indian actress and playback singer Nithya Menen was also seen on the ramp, walking for designer Kaveri, wearing a lime green kurta with hand embroidered blooms and minimal beadwork. Ruffled sleeves and a lacy, floral hemline of the silhouette upped the ante of the kurta, which was styled with a tiered skirt and a dainty dupatta, having sheer frill details and selfhued embroidery.

Shraddha brought the day to an end, walking for designer duo Pankaj and Niddhi. The "Baaghi 3" actress wore a monochromatic offshoulder top, weaved in a technique which gave the illusion of having 3D cubicles, long fringes, paired with black denims.

Alaya F walks for SVA by Sonam and Paras Modi

Actress Ileana D'Cruz walks the ramp on Day 6

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Actress Saiee Manjrekar A model walks the ramp for showcases the creation of the 'House Of Three X Tantajo' label Jiviva by designers Jig on Day 3 Vijay and Varsha on Day 4

Actress and showstopper Tara Sutaria walks the ramp for fashion designer Punit Balana on Day 5

Actor Siddharth Suryanarayan with other models who walked Actor Aditya Roy Kapoor the ramp for 'House Of Three X Tantajo', on Day 3

Alaya F walks for SVA by Sonam and Paras Modi

Actress, Lakme Brand Ambassador and showstopper Kareena Kapoor Khan walks the ramp for fashion designer Amit Aggarwal

Actress Shraddha Kapoor walks the ramp Actress Tabu showcases the creation of showcasing the collection of Rielan by fashion designer Gaurang Shah during fashion designers Pankaj and Nidhi on show titled 'Garam Masala' on Day 4 Day 5

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MARCH 2020

16

Indian News Queensland | FASHION

Fashion is your mood: Nora Fatehi

F

"

ashion is your mood," feels model and actress Nora Fatehi. "It could be something casual, something over the top, fancy, blingy," she tells us.

"But for me, fashion is anything that is extra. Bling, nice cuts and colours -- anything that makes me really girly is my fashion," says the Canadian beauty, who walked the ramp for designer duo Gauri and Nainika in association with NEXA at the Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2020 in Mumbai.

The actress, who dazzled on the ramp wearing a monochromatic, off-shoulder mermaid gown, with

a trail and plunging neckline, shared her fashion essentials and said it's trackpants and a crop top, heels, jeans and a black dress for her. Beauty products which she cannot do without? It's her blush, lipstick in blush pink tone and mascara.

The "Dilbar" fame modelturned-actor has just completed shooting the first schedule of the movie "Bhuj: The Pride of India" with actor Ajay Devgn.

Without disclosing the name, Nora said that she is collaborating with "a very big artiste" for an international, independent track.

"So good things are happening," she concluded.

Actress Nora Fatehi showcases the creation of Fashion designer Gaurangi ' Nainika at the Lakme Fashion Week Summer Resort 2020, in Mumbai on Feb 14, 2020

Nora Fatehi

Blender's Pride Fashion Tour: Abu Jani, Sandeep Khosla showcase 'Blend'

T

he 15th edition of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour was held in New Delhi, with the designer duo Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla showcasing the concept of 'Blend', which is a tribute to the unifying power of fashion and its ability to go beyond borders and geographies.

The collection was an exotic journey, which seamlessly combined the classical with the "avant-garde", creating an utterly contemporary line-up.

"We return to our roots, our extraordinary legacy of indigenous textiles, craft techniques and embroideries to fashion a brand-new expression which is unfettered by rules

or borders. We take immense pleasure in my association with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2019-20, where our showcase was a tribute to the coming together of past, present and future, of multiple elements, silhouettes and moods to create a new fashion landscape," said Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla.

The showstopper for the evening was Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan, whose mother is a close friend of the duo. Khan sashayed down the runway in two unique ensembles, one a traditional pink lehenga and another a rich wine hued style with billowing sleeves.

Actor Ankur Rathi, too, made an appearance on the runway in support of the designers.

Designer Abu Jani, showstopper Sara Ali Khan and designer Sandeep Khosla at the 15th edition of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2019-20 in New Delhi

Actor Ankur Rathi walks the ramp at the 15th edition of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2019-20 in New Delhi (Photo IANS) A model walks the ramp

I am not defined by my job: Sara Ali Khan

S

ara Ali Khan was seen in Delhi last month walking the runway for designers Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla, at the 15th edition of the Blender's Pride Fashion Tour. In a candid chat, she shares her love for cinema, aesthetics and a work-life balance.

Excerpts from the interview: Q: What is the one thing you're really proud of?

I am proud of having a sense of self-explanatory films, and yet being very strong. I love my job, and I like the fact that I am not defined by it.

But that doesn't take away my love or obsession from it.

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Q: Is it maximalism over minimalism for you?

Minimalistic is best. I think they one can standout being who you are. And that's what it should always be about.

Q: Your mum (Amrita Singh) is close to the designer duo Abu Jani- Sandeep Khosla, how does it feel to be their showstopper?

It is amazing to walk the ramp for them. I don't think I would walk the runway for anybody else.

They are family and the best in the business. I think the way both of them put together the "avant garde" and the "vintage" is so

organic and so true to who they are. It is very exciting for me to walk the runway for them.

Q: Too much paparazzi or too little. What is your preference?

How does someone strike a balance?

It does not matter what my preferences are. I cannot change it.

So, the way to strike a balance is to know that it is a part of your job.

And don't let great reviews make you fly too high, also don't let bad review let you down. You can't change what it's gonna be, so why even ask?

Sara Ali Khan walks the ramp at the 15th edition of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2019-20

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MARCH 2020

17

Indian News Queensland | LOCAL AND NATIONAL

Global recession likely if coronavirus becomes pandemic: Moody's

G

lobal recession is likely if coronavirus (COVID-19) becomes a pandemic, and the odds of that are uncomfortably high and rising with infections surging in Italy and Korea, Moody's Analytics said on Feb 26.

In a commentary on the impact and scenarios of the coronavirus, Mark Zandi, Chief Economist at Moody's Analytics, said that the coronavirus has been a body blow to the Chinese economy, which now threatens to take out the entire global economy.

"A global recession is likely if COVID-19 becomes a pandemic, and the odds of that are uncomfortably high and rising with infections surging in Italy and Korea", Moody's Analytics said.

The assumption that the virus will be contained to China appears increasingly tenuous, and the odds of a pandemic are rising.

"We previously put the odds of a pandemic at 20 percent but we

now put them at 40 percent," the US agency said.

The note has painted a dire scenario if the coronavirus becomes a pandemic. COVID-19 is battering the global economy in numerous ways. Chinese business travel and tourism has all but stopped, global airlines are not going to China and cruise lines are canceling most Asia-Pacific itineraries.

This is a huge problem for major travel destinations, including in the US, where some 3 million Chinese tourists visit each year.

Chinese tourists to the US are among the biggest spenders of any foreign tourists. Travel in Europe is also sure to be severely impacted as Milan, Italy, the center of the new infections in that country, is a major travel hub for the Continent, the research agency said.

Shuttered Chinese factories are also a problem for countries and companies fastened into China's manufacturing supply chain.

Apple, Nike and General Motors

are some prominent American examples.

Under Moody's baseline scenario, which assumes the outbreak remains contained to China and largely plays out by the spring, the agency has forecast that China's economy will contract in the first quarter of this year, and growth for the year will be cut by a full percentage point to 5.4 percent.

The global economy will suffer a hit to GDP of almost a percentage point (annualized) in the first quarter, and slow by 0.4 percentage point to 2.4 per cent in 2020.

The global potential growth is an estimated 2.8 per cent.

"COVID-19 came out of nowhere.

It may be what economists call a black swan - a rare and inherently unforeseeable event with severe consequences. We all hope the global effort to contain the virus will ensure this black swan will not fly. But it is prudent to be prepared if it does", Moody's Analytics added.

Premier Palaszczuk supports India advises travellers Queensland's Chinese community to stay away from Iran, amid coronavirus scare Italy, S. Korea

P

remier Annastacia Palaszczuk expressed solidarity with the Chinese community during the difficult time involving the novel coronavirus. She held a meeting with the community leaders on the 31 January and the next day also had a lunch with them in at the Landmark Chinese Restaurant, Sunnybank Plaza Shopping Centre.

Her show of solidarity was to bolster the morale within the Chinese community of Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (blue dress) with the Chinese community leaders and also to bring awareness in the community about the low threat at the Landmark Chinese Restaurant, Sunnybank Plaza Shopping Centre level of the disease.

T

he Union Health Ministry on Feb 26 issued a new travel advisory cautioning Indians against non-essential travel to South Korea, Iran and Italy.

The advisory came in view of the evolving coronavirus outbreak situation with deaths being reported from these countries.

It also states that people coming from these three countries or having

such travel history since February 10, are to be quarantined for 14 days on arrival to India.

The novel coronavirus outbreak, which was first reported from Wuhan in China, has now spread to various countries with over 2,600 deaths reported from China alone while nearly a million have been infected.

Barry O’Farrell appointed as Australia's new High Commissioner to India

A

ustralia has appointed former New South Wales premier Barry O’Farrell as the next High Commissioner to India, one of Canberra’s closest and most significant partners in the IndoPacific. Barry O’Farrell, 60, will succeed Harinder Sidhu who has been in the office since 2016.

“Barry O’Farrell is Australia’s next High Commissioner to the Republic of India -- one of our closest and most significant partners in the Indo-Pacific. Thanks to outgoing HC Harinder Sidhu,” Australian

www.indiannewsqld.com.au

Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne tweeted on February 18.

Barry Robert O'Farrell AO was the 43rd Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Western Sydney from 2011 to 2014. He was the Leader of the New South Wales Liberal Party from 2007 to 2014, and was a Member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly from 1995 to 2015, representing Northcott until 1999 and representing Ku-ring-gai on the Upper North Shore of Sydney from 1999 to 2015. At the time of his high-profile appointment, he

was the president and independent board chair of Diabetes Australia, chair of the Wests Tigers Rugby League Football Club and CEO of Racing Australia Ltd. Australia India Business Council (AIBC) has congratulated The Hon Barry O’Farrell AO on his appointment as the incoming High Commissioner to the Republic of India. "We look forward to working closely with him as we have with the outgoing High Commissioner of Australia to the Republic of India HE Harinder Sidhu," Mr Jim Varghese AM, National Chair, AIBC, said in a statement.

Barry O'Farrell

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Courtesy: barryofarrell Twitter

MARCH 2020

18

Indian News Queensland | INDIAN DIASPORA

Lunch for Rs 2000 at 'extravagant' Kerala diaspora event

W

ith Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Issac time and again crying foul on the precarious financial position of the state, reports have emerged which show massive spending at a conference held in Thiruvananthapuram for the diaspora. Rs 83 lakh has been spent just for food and accommodation.

Loka Kerala Sabha (LKS) is a global meet of Keralite diaspora settled outside the state and it was first launched by the Pinarayi Vijayan government in 2018. Now, the scrutiny of expenses for the second edition held over three days from January 1-3 has come out with revealing figures, at a time when the state is having a hand-to-mouth existence.

Issac and Vijayan have been blaming the Centre for not giving Kerala its due share of taxes and say that one of the reasons for the state's poor financial position is because of that.

The second edition of LKS had attracted attention, when the Congress-led opposition decided to boycott the event after they found that the Vijayan government failed to do anything on what they had promised when the first LKS was held.

In the second edition, 351 delegates had participated in the event, and the bill was paid by the Kerala government. The expenses statement now reveals that for a breakfast it cost around Rs 550, a lunch for Rs 2000 and a dinner for Rs 1700. The accommodation bills came to around Rs 23 lakh.

Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Issac The opposition has time and again slammed the Vijayan government for extravagance as he was seen in indulging in several appointments in his office in the post of advisors and gifting cabinet posts as well, a scenario that was never seen in the state.

Kerala NRI Commission demands voting rights for diaspora

T

he Kerala Non-Resident Indians' Commission on February 28 passed a resolution to request the Centre and Election Commission (EC) to make appropriate amendments in the Representation of Peoples Act, 1951, to ensure voting rights to the non-resident Indians working abroad.

The Commission is a statutory body constituted for the welfare of NonResident Keralites working outside India.

The Centre had introduced a bill for this purpose which was passed by the Lok Sabha in 2018, but the same has since lapsed.

Therefore, the Kerala NRI Commission decided to request the Centre to consider introducing the bill in the next session of Parliament

considering the interest of the NRI community at large.

The resolution was moved by commission member and NRI entrepreneur Shamsheer Vayalil, who is also a petitioner in the writ petition filed regarding this in the Supreme Court.

"The central government may consider introducing the bill in the next session of the Parliament session considering the interest of the NRI community at large," read the resolution which will now be sent to the Ministry of Law and the Election Commission (EC).

Commission chairman Justice P.D. Rajan said the right to vote for NRIs is a genuine demand.

"This is the time that we step up pressure on the agencies concerned to implement this. Voting from

Australian Hindus condemn Treasurer Josh Frydenberg’s mockery of Hinduism practices in Parliament

the workplace would be a different experience for them. It would be a decisive step," he said.

This fresh development comes at a time when a petition filed in the Supreme Court on the same topic last week came before a bench headed by Justice Deepak Gupta, which considered the case and said it will be heard in April.

"We are expecting a favourable decision from the Supreme Court.

We would also approach the NRI commission in other states and request them to raise the same demand," said Vayalil.

If implemented, millions of NRIs around the world would be able to exercise their franchise in the electoral processes of the nation.

According to the estimate of the Ministry of External Affairs, there are about 3.10 crore NRIs.

Courtesy ABC

V

arious umbrella federations of Indian organisations from all Australian states jointly issued a statement strongly condemning the recent speech of Treasurer Josh Frydenberg in the Australian Parliament, on Feb 27, where he mocked those who chant “Om”, “Wear Robes”, “Burn Incenses”, and practice the ancient tradition of Yoga.

"Given the fact that these are practices of Hindu religion, we are extremely disappointed by his speech. It lacks sensitivity and respect for a religion that is practiced by over half a million Australians and almost a billion people globally.

This coming from a senior Federal government minister is appalling, offensive, and unacceptable.

"Yoga and Meditation are also an integral part of the Australian lifestyle with one-in-six Australians practicing meditation, and one-inten Australians practicing Yoga as part of their everyday lives. Over 4,000+ Australian “Yoga-based” small business owners contribute over $700M to the Australian economy every year.

"We understand that the remarks may have been unintentional and without malice, however, the fact is that they are hurtful and appear as mockery. We request that the Minister takes into consideration our concerns and take the necessary action such as withdrawing his statement in regard to the mockery implied in his speech," said the statement.

California gurdwara pays unique tribute to Kobe Bryant

W

ith Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Issac time and again crying foul on the precarious financial position of the state, reports have emerged which show massive spending at a conference held in Thiruvananthapuram for the diaspora. Rs 83 lakh has been spent just for food and accommodation.

Loka Kerala Sabha (LKS) is a global meet of Keralite diaspora settled outside the state and it was first launched by the Pinarayi Vijayan government in 2018. Now, the scrutiny of expenses for the second www.indiannewsqld.com.au

edition held over three days from January 1-3 has come out with revealing figures, at a time when the state is having a hand-to-mouth existence.

Issac and Vijayan have been blaming the Centre for not giving Kerala its due share of taxes and say that one of the reasons for the state's poor financial position is because of that.

The second edition of LKS had attracted attention, when the Congress-led opposition decided to boycott the event after they found that the Vijayan government failed to do anything on what they had promised when the first LKS was held.

In the second edition, 351 delegates had participated in the event, and the bill was paid by the Kerala government. The expenses statement now reveals that for a breakfast it cost around Rs 550, a lunch for Rs 2000 and a dinner for Rs 1700. The accommodation bills came to around Rs 23 lakh.

The opposition has time and again slammed the Vijayan government for extravagance as he was seen in indulging in several appointments in his office in the post of advisors and gifting cabinet posts as well, a scenario that was never seen in the state.

Mourners gather near the Staples Center to pay respects to Kobe Bryant, in Los Angeles, California, the United States, on Jan 26, 2020

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MARCH 2020

19

Indian News Queensland | NEWS FROM INDIA

Mumbai cops had intel on Gulshan Kumar's murder: Former Maharashtra DGP

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undreds of Sikh worshippers turned up wearing the Lakers colours -- purple and yellow -- at the Gurdwara Nanaksar in Fresno, California, in a special prayer meet on February 13 for the late basketball great Kobe Bryant who was killed in a helicopter crash on January 26, a media report said.

While men and children wore Lakers jerseys, many women showed up in the traditional salwar kameez in purple and yellow, The American Bazaar report said.

The organisers at the Gurdwara Nanaksar held the prayer meet after it witnessed that many Sikh men and children were affected by the untimely death of the NBA icon, who was a reason they began playing basketball.

Some young men from the community showed up at the gurdwara crying.

Amitoj Singh, a student at Terronez Middle School in Fresno, who attended the prayer meeting said: "The gurdwara authorities thought

Late Gulshan Kumar (right) Former Mumbai Police with younger brother Commissioner Rakesh Maria Krishan Kumar of organising a 'path' (prayer) for Kobe and others when they saw a young child crying in the gurdwara.

While Kobe was hugely popular across the globe, the Sikh Americans keenly followed him."

Angad Sandhu another attendee of the prayer meeting and a Lakers fan said: "I started playing basketball because of Kobe and his game and conduct really inspired me."

On why Kobe remained such a popular figure particularly among the Sikh American community, Amandeep Singh, an actor and

model says: "Kobe in the Sikh community was a brave leader.

He led without fear, he conquered his missions with unbelievable determination, passion and commitment.

"He was a hero to the Sikh community, especially to children.

He inspired many Sikhs to play basketball and chase their dreams.

He inspired us in every way. He was a role model to many."

Kobe and his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, were among the nine people killed in a helicopter crash in Calabasas on January 26.

TAQ's new committee members announced

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amil Association of Queensland (TAQ) selected their new committee members at their AGM held in Annerley on March 1.

Appointments President Balasubramanian Govindasamy Naidu Vice President - Senthil Kumaran sentheyval Secretary - Manoj Sukumaran Treasurer - Venkatesan Kutty Committee members Prabha Sharma Satheeskumar Loganathan Shreemathi Narayanan

Vintage cars from around the world gather at India Gate

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undreds of visitors at the India Gate on February 15 caught a glimpse of vintage cars from around the world which paraded through the roads of Lutyens' Delhi.

More than 150 vintage cars were parked in front of the Amar Jawan Jyoti, which made for a stunning view along with 34 esteemed judges from around the globe.

The cars included 1938 Rolls Royce, Maserati 3500GT Vignale Syder, 1939 Buick Roadmaster Convertible, 1938 Lancia Astura Series IV, 1966 Ford Mustang, 1930 Cadillac V-16 Roadster and 1959 Alfa 2000, among others.

Organised in association with the Ministry of Tourism, the 21 Gun www.indiannewsqld.com.au

Salute International Vintage Car Rally and Concours d'Elegance marked its beginning with a flag off from the India Gate.

Celebrating the spirit of motoring and clubbing it with India's heritage, the rally embarked on a 23-day road trip on vintage cars from India and abroad. The Incredible India Rally will visit 17 cities covering 4,000 km and would mark the beginning of a new era for patrons of heritage motoring.

"For the past eight years, the event has grown to become a magnificent show that attracts tourists and motoring buffs from around the world," said Madan Mohan, Chairman, 21 Gun Salute Heritage and Cultural Trust.

21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car rally underway at India Gate in New Delhi on Feb 15

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MARCH 2020

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Indian News Queensland | RELIGION

GCHCA holds bhoomi pooja and stonelaying ceremony

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old Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) celebrated the bhoomi pooja and foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Precinct on February 8.

Many devotees from Gold Coast, Brisbane and Northern NSW participated in the ceremony despite the heavy rain. The severe weather warning did not deter the devotees to participate in the lifetime opportunity of laying down the foundation for the future GCHCA precinct.

The holy stones and conch were earlier placed under the ground on the auspicious day in January as per the Hindu almanac. The pooja was conducted by Shri Lakshmi Narayana Kurukkal, the former priest of Brisbane Selva Vinayagar temple.

With this foundation ceremony, the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Precinct's building work is going to kick start from July 2020. For more information about the new precinct at Byth Street, Arundel, Gold Coast, please visit the GCHCA website on www.GoldCoastHindu.org.

Pandit Ji performing the bhoomi pooja at the new GCHCA precinct in Arundel, Gold Coast

Monthly Bhajan at GCHCA GCHCA Monthly bhajan will be held on 20th March 2020.

Prayer Time: 7.15pm – 8.30pm followed by light dinner Date: Friday 20th March 2020.

Venue: Community Centre Hall, 31, Discovery Drive, Helensvale, QLD Many devotees from Gold Coast, Brisbane and Northern NSW participated in the ceremony despite the heavy rain

Yoga Guru Thai Poosam festival Baba Ramdev held in Brisbane visits Brisbane S

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enowned yoga guru Baba Ramdev visited Vibrant Ayurveda, one of the leading ayurveda centres in Australia, at 43 Vulture Street, West End, Brisbane, on February 24. Baba Ramdev had come to Brisbane to conduct his 2-day group yoga camp on February 24-25.

After the lighting of lamp, Baba Ramdev visited the ayurvedic pharmacy on the centre's premises.

He appreciated the huge range

of ayurvedic and organic herbal products as well as food and cosmetic products available at the pharmacy.

He then visited the recently added special panchakarma (traditional ayurvedic detox room), which is equipped with classical instruments for traditional ayurvedic treatments such as abhyanga (therapeutic ayurvedic massage), pidichhil (herbal oil bath Massage), udvartana (herbal-paste detox massage) and other panchakarma treatments.

ri Selva Vinayakar, Ganesha temple organised Thai Poosam festival on February 8 in Brisbane.

After the regular pooja in the morning at 9am, sankalpam for kalasa abhishekam was done, which was followed by special pooja to Lord Murugan and then annathanam during lunch time.

In the evening, the ceremony again started at 6pm, followed by vasantha mandapa to Lord Murugan at 7pm.

After circumambulation of Lord Murugan, inner and outer sanctum, annathanum dinner was served to the devotees.

Baba Ramdev with the devotees present at the centre www.indiannewsqld.com.au

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MARCH 2020

21

Indian News Queensland | TRAVEL

The unforgettable South African safari Besides the big 5 -- lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino, adventurers can see all sorts of wild life in the national parks in South Africa, making your trip an unforgettable one, writes Dr Ram Mohan

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hat I enjoyed my justconcluded trip to South Africa would be an understatement. That was the trip of my lifetime, to be honest. The three weeks of African safaris and game reserves, making a big part of our family holidays, have been nothing short of amazing and unforgettable. The trip to South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe gave us the chance to enjoy safaris in Krugar National Park, Chobe National Park and Pilanesberg National Park.

From our stay at the tented camp in Chobe National Park in Botswana among thousands of elephants to the sights of Victoria Falls in Zambia to the lions and lionesses seen in all three games reserves, everything was picture-perfect. Apart from seeing the big five, we also experienced giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, impalas, wildebeests, springboks, jackals, hyenas, kudus, baboons and mongooses.

Arguably, the most famous park in the world, Kruger is one of

Victoria Falls in Zambia

the largest game reserves on the continent, covering 19,485 square kilometers. As per the South African government, over 1.6 million tourists come here every year. Whatever the numbers, the park was everything we could hope for. We wanted to see nature, wanted to see animals in their natural habitats, we got them. We enjoyed the sunrise and sunset with all sorts of animals all around. Even the night was enjoyable with clear sky, stars and the Milky Way clear as could be, all due to clear air with no pollution, no ground lights.

Whether you are alone or with family, this is the best national park for you to visit, not just because of the variety of animals you get to see but also due to many other factors making it an 'easy' travel, like good network of roads, facilities provided by government and availability of amenities.

Next up, we got on the 4WD vehicles for a drive through the Chobe National Park in the morning itself. Right off the bat,

we saw impalas everywhere, along with hippopotami lazing in the Chobe River. They would take their time coming out but when they do, it's an enjoyable sight.

But one drag is the number of tourists all congregating in the same spots, sometimes disturbing the natural reactions of the lions and other animals. Just as we were about to call it a day and head for the Victoria Falls in Zambia, we had the chance for some kudu sightings, making our visit all the more worthwhile.

Even though it is dwarfed by the other game reserves of South Africa in popularity among the tourists, the Pilanesberg National Park, a game reserve northwest of Johannesburg, is just as enjoyable, making me wonder why the partial treatment with this park.

The park is malaria-free park, you get all the big five there, with more than 7000 animals and 300 bird species, along with heaps of other exclusive sights and pleasing flora and fauna.

Safari through the Kruger National Park, South Africa

Enjoying lunch at the tent in Chobe National Park, Botswana

We spotted this lioness with her cubs in Chobe National Park

INDIA, SRI LANKA, NEPAL, BANGLADESH, PAKISTAN, FIJI AND OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD. “We also specialise in escorted tours to India/Sri Lanka/Nepal and other parts of the world�

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MARCH 2020

22

Indian News Queensland | SPORTS

ICC on an imperialistic path to a royal battle

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he word 'imperial' has that touch of legacy that one associates so strongly with the British empire of yore. The game of cricket was the domain of that empire and the ICC then was known as the Imperial Cricket Conference, the body that governed cricket around the globe.

The game of cricket when played correctly was defined as the imperial way of playing it. Australia, apparently, through some shrewd field placements, made the first move against the conventional and imperial way of playing the game.

South Africa too made their mark by their bowlers mastering the googly.

But the man who played the magical "Indian rope trick" by inventing the leg glance was the first cricket poster boy of the world, Prince Ranjit Sinhji from the Indian state of Nawanagar/Jamnagar. He advertised products in the UK and was the blue eyed cricketer whom people came to watch because of his mystical way of batsmanship.

"Ranji", as he was popular called, had mastered the art of leg glance and could play it with such grace and precision that it left the spectators as well as the bowlers awestruck.

The imperial way of playing the ball was in front of the wicket, with fielders placed in front to stop the ball. However, the innovative Indian prince, so like his royal lineage of not utilising undue force, used the bowlers speed and effort to direct the ball finely to the leg side boundary. The imperial way of batting, thereafter, changed forever.

In 1965, the world cricket body finally changed its name to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the aura of imperialism

By Yajurvindra Singh

was finally buried once and for all.

The game of cricket was, however, still being governed and controlled from the Lords cricket ground by the powerful English and Australian boards. India and the other nations were at times mere bystanders to the rules and regulations being enforced and implemented.

Although India was a significant part of the cricket world, winning a few series and matches occasionally, they were never given the pride of place or status. India, is now the hub of the cricket world with 80 percent of the ICC's revenue coming from them. The reason for this rise is not a lucky dice but many years of effort from the BCCI administrators to popularise and commercialise the game on and off the field.

The change in Indian cricket emanated from the 1983 World Cup win and the shabby treatment that was given to the Indian cricket representatives during the final.

N.K.P Salve, the then President of the BCCI, made a promise to change the tidings and India was the venue of the next cup final held in 1987.

The ICC, as one understands, had gradually dwindled to become a cricket body with just Pound 30K in their kitty when the astute Indian administrator, Jagmohan Dalmiya, took over the reins. At the end of his term, he left the ICC a few millions richer and put in place a structure that finally paid dividend.

Indian cricket both administratively and financially brought the riches to the table. Thereafter, under the ICC leadership of another good Indian administrator N. Srinivasan, Indian cricket along with England and Australia were justifiably given a revenue package that recognised their contribution.

One now gets a feeling that a battle royal is brewing between the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The body that governs cricket, has two Indians at its helm, in Shashank Manohar as its chairman and Manu Sawhney as its CEO. Indian history is garnished with tales of Indians playing a part against a fellow Indian to bring the country down. This is precisely how the Afghans, Mughals and finally the British captured and ruled India.

Shashank Manohar, the former President of the BCCI, the man who fought to enrich the coffers of the BCCI during his term seems to be a man on a mission to bring the very cricket body he headed down to its knees. The internal court issues of the BCCI was an ideal platform for him to strike, knowing very well that the BCCI is helpless till the Supreme Courts hearings are completed.

The ICC once again is showing the imperialistic attitude of old.

Unfortunately, the person heading it is an Indian. Recently, a report said that the ICC has hired the well-known consulting company Mckinsey to strategise their operations. This was done without any knowledge to either the Indian, Australian or the England board.

The situation looks to be heading towards a battle between the top playing cricket countries and the ICC who wants to govern with an iron fist. The popularity of cricket is growing by leaps and bound and one hopes that an amicable solution is reached before it escalates into a grim situation. Or else, the existing battle may just lead to a war. Cricket unfortunately will then be the loser.

The turning of the tide in Indian cricket's favour emanated from their 1983 World Cup win

Prince Ranjit Sinhji was the blue eyed cricketer whom people came to watch because of his mystical way of batsmanship

At the end of his term, Jagmohan Dalmiya left the ICC a few millions richer

With Shashank Manohar at the helm, a battle royal is brewing between the ICC and the BCCI

7th MAQ Brisbane Indian Open Badminton Tournament held

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alayalee Association of Queensland (MAQ) organised the 7th Indian Open Badminton Tournament at the Calamvale Community College indoor courts on February 1-2.

More than 200 players participated in over 10 events from Men’s doubles and singles to Women’s doubles, to mixed doubles and kids' under-12 and under-15 games.

Every year, more and more players of the Indian community have participated in the tournament that was started in 2013. This is an open event for anyone in the Indian community to play in, and over the years, the tournament has seen participation of players from pretty much every Indian community in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich and also from neighboring NSW. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

"The idea behind creating this tournament was to foster community relationships and build on the multicultural aspect of the society we live in. At MAQ, we believe that we can contribute to the social fabric of Brisbane by using sport as a unifier.

We use a phrase “Unity through Sport” and have been using this event since 2013, and a few other sporting events, to contribute to the fantastic multicultural society we have in Brisbane and Queensland," MAQ said in a statement.

"With over 200 players from multiple community groups playing in this tournament, we can confidently say that community engagement and multiculturalism is thriving in Brisbane, and MAQ Inc is playing its part in contributing to the social fabric of this wonderful city we live in," the statement further said.

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MARCH 2020

23

Indian News Queensland | HEALTH

5 natural alternatives to help you cope with work stress

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s your job or business stressing you out? Are you trying hard to balance your personal and professional lives? The piling up of deadlines and the zeal to excel at work bring in extreme work load.

Here are some easy-to-pocket herbs and natural products that can help us recover from stress and anxiety.

1. Shilajit An effective and safe supplement, shilajit is a commonly used ayurvedic medicine with a positive effect on our overall health and well-being. Not just an aphrodisiac, Shilajit in its pure form, has more medicinal and wellness benefits than one can imagine. It is a must try for young working professionals (both men and women) who are either suffering from work related stress and anxiety or are fighting depression as it contains important elements such as magnesium, potassium together with zinc.

You can search for online purchase and delivery to Australia of tried and tested Indian products, such as Upakarma Ayurveda's Pure Shilajit Resin, Aadar's Stay Pro Active.

2. Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb classified as an adaptogen, meaning it can help your body manage stress. A must herb for all young professionals who are under severe work stress, it blocks the stress pathway in the brain by regulating chemical signalling in the nervous system.

Several human studies have already shown that it can reduce symptoms in people with stress and anxiety disorders.

Upakarma Ayurveda's Pure Ashwagandha Capsules for Strength, Stamina & Power and Dabur's Ashwagandha Churna, Himalaya Ashwagandha are good ones.

3. Peppermint tea Peppermint is an important part of most of our lives, from giving our upset stomach some relief to providing our drinks a refreshing taste and aroma. But many are unaware of its calming properties that can leave you relaxed and release your stress and mental pressure. In fact, when it comes to relieving stress and anxiety, peppermint tea is one of the best remedies. The menthol present in the herb is known to be a muscle relaxant and is antispasmodic in nature, helping you relax amidst mental stress. Goodwyn and The Indian Chai are a couple of the best brands.

4. Plant-based products Plant-based products contain proteins and multivitamins.

OZiva's Protein & Herbs is specially good for women to meet their dietary needs and help them cope up with the stress.

5. Essential oils Aromatherapy is one of the complementary therapies which use essential oils as the major therapeutic agents to treat several health and wellness issues. Their subtle essence has an effect on

the body's chemical and energy systems, making it a natural remedy to relieve anxiety and stress. Some essential oils such as lavender oil, jasmine, rose, bergamot can be used to relieve anxiety.

Want to lose weight? Have Cheers! A beer big breakfast, light dinner a day can lead to longer life

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ating a big breakfast rather than a large dinner may prevent obesity and high blood sugar, a new study

suggests.

In the findings, published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, researchers at the University of Lubeck in Germany found that the body appears to be better at processing food in the morning.

According to the researchers, our body expends energy when we digest food for the absorption, digestion, transport and storage of nutrients.

This process, known as diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT), is a measure of how well our metabolism is working, and can differ depending on mealtime. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

I "Our results show that a meal eaten for breakfast, regardless of the amount of calories it contains, creates twice as high diet-induced thermogenesis as the same meal consumed for dinner," said the study author, Juliane Richter.

"This finding is significant for all people as it underlines the value of eating enough at breakfast," Richter added.

For the results, the researchers conducted a three-day laboratory study of 16 men who consumed a low-calorie breakfast and highcalorie dinner, and vice versa in a second round.

They found identical calorie consumption led to 2.5 times higher DIT in the morning than in the

evening after high-calorie and lowcalorie meals. The food-induced increase of blood sugar and insulin concentrations was diminished after breakfast, compared with dinner, the study said.

The results also show eating a lowcalorie breakfast increased appetite, specifically for sweets.

"We recommend that patients with obesity as well as healthy people eat a large breakfast rather than a large dinner to reduce body weight and prevent metabolic diseases," Richter said.

University of Lubeck in Northern Germany is a research Institute that focuses almost entirely on medicine and sciences.

n a cheerful news to beer lovers, researchers have found that men who consume half a pint of beer a day are 81 percent more likely to reach the milestone age when compared to non-drinkers.

The study also found that women who drink similar amounts increase by a third their chance of reaching that landmark.

The research from Maastricht University in Netherlands, also revealed that men who drink three shots of whisky or two pints every day are two-thirds more likely to reach 90 than the person who never drinks alcohol, reports thesun. co.uk.

For the finding, the researchers tracked the drinking habits of 5,500 people over two decades.

"Our analyses show significantly positive associations between alcohol and longevity in men and women," study lead researcher

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Professor Piet van den Brandt was quoted as saying by thesun.co.uk.

According to the researchers, one theory is moderate drinking is good for heart health. But too much drinking can be toxic.

However, the researchers claim their results do not mean non-drinkers should start drinking and they are being urged not to start drinking in a bid to live longer.

"The results should not be used as motivation to start drinking," the researchers said.

According to the researchers, National Health Service (NHS) guidelines recommend no more than 14 units of alcohol weekly - roughly six pints of beer or six standard glasses of wine.

However, Sir Ian Gilmore from Alcohol Health Alliance UK, said: "There is no evidence to suggest non-drinkers should start for the good of their health."

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Indian News Queensland | ADVERTORIAL

No Euthanasia Alliance (NEA) clarifies its position and opposes VAD

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he No Euthanasia Alliance (NEA) believes in the value of each human person. We are concerned that our social conscience, and particularly society's views on the worth of human life will be permanently undermined by the legalisation of euthanasia and assisted suicide. We believe that Queensland communities are strengthened and enriched through mutual respect for human life and through ensuring that effective, caring and compassionate care is readily available to the sick and dying.

A Parliamentary committee is currently considering whether to recommend that the Queensland Parliament legalise assisted suicide and euthanasia (termed ‘Voluntary Assisted Dying’ or VAD legislation by some).

The No Euthanasia Alliance is concerned that such legislation will undermine patient wellbeing and the provision of ethical healthcare and irrevocably impact upon our society. Queensland has the second highest rate of suicide in Australia. Mental health issues and suicide amongst particular groups, including our young, our elderly and our indigenous populations are already the focus of significant interventions and numerous programs.2 We are concerned that these programs are likely to be significantly undermined.

Legalised VAD places vulnerable people at risk As a society, one of our important roles must be to protect the vulnerable.

VAD legislation undermines the worth of vulnerable people by offering a government-sanctioned option for ending life prematurely. We are concerned that the Governmentsanctioned nature of this option will increase the likelihood of vulnerable people feeling that they are a burden on society, and has the potential to increase the likelihood of vulnerable patients being pressured or influenced into prematurely ending their life.

Feeling like one is a burden on society should never be an acceptable reason for the state to facilitate one’s suicide.

And yet, in the state of Oregon in the USA—which has assisted suicide laws very similar to what is in operation in Victoria and likely to be what is proposed in Queensland—there has been a steady increase in the proportion of people who have listed ‘being a burden’ as a reason for using these laws to obtain a prescription for drugs that will kill them. Between 1997 and 2002, 34% of people listed ‘being a burden on family, friends/caregivers’ as among their reasons for ending their lives. By 2018, that had increased to 54%.

We believe that it is important that patients who are vulnerable, whether due to ageing or physical or mental

illness or incapacity can trust in a society and health system that continues to place the holistic care of that individual at the heart of patient care. We are concerned that this focus on the person will diminish if the State sanctions assisted suicide as an appropriate option for our vulnerable and dying.

Legalised VAD undermines the value and importance of palliative care and prioritises death over compassionate care Every Australian living with a lifelimiting illness deserves timely and equitable access to quality, evidencebased palliative care and end-of-life care based on their individual needs.

According to Queensland Health, there are too few palliative care specialists in Queensland especially in rural and regional areas: “There are 49 palliative medicine specialists practicing in Queensland who work predominantly in a hospital setting for the public health system. The greatest number of specialists are found at Metro North, followed by Metro South, Gold Coast and Townsville HHSs. The current lack of high-quality palliative care currently means that some Australians unnecessarily die in pain because of lack of access to palliative care. The solution is not assisted suicide and euthanasia but instead, properly funded, compassionate and effective professional palliative care. Research

The art of self-love

By Suhani Sharma Suhani is 13 and currently in Grade 8. She writes on social issues among the youth, common problems that teenagers experience, as well as fun topics.

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alentine’s Day passed away not too long ago, and the air is still buzzing with love. Honestly, do you remember how your Valentine’s Day went? The chances are that you were probably running around finding the ‘perfect’ gift for your significant other or writing cheesy quotes in an overpriced Hallmarks card. We’re always working so hard to check everything off our to-do lists, achieving our goals and ambitions and showing love to others that we rarely ever take out time for ourselves and show some love to us.

Everyone deserves a day off, everyone deserves to take time off for themselves. Well, what are you waiting for? Make this weekend or any day you’re free a self care day.

Try starting the day by waking up when you want, then cleanse yourself, let it be a nice long bath or just a shower. Another thing you can do is give yourself a massage, maybe deep-condition your hair, or what about putting on a fun face mask? Now these are just some suggestions, and you don’t have to follow these, but how about writing a love note to yourself, point out www.indiannewsqld.com.au

all the amazing qualities that make you you, all of your talents and any quirky perks you have.

Now, let’s get out of the house!

What do you want to do? Isn’t there that movie you’ve been dying to watch but ‘never’ had the time, or that painting class you’ve always wanted to try? Well, go do it now.

Do something you enjoy and like doing, or maybe try something new out. Either way, devote this day to yourself; unplug from social media and just relax. If you have a good friend(s) or a family member you’ve been meaning to spend time with, go out with them. Who says you need to go alone? Just remember that whoever you pick to have this self-love day with isn’t toxic and doesn’t carry negativity around with them. You should be treating them with the kindness they deserve.

Now, this day is not just about going out and buying expensive stuff; this day is about showing some self-love to yourself, and that means doing it mentally as well. We all need to learn to accept our flaws and the way we are. Nobody’s perfect, and nobody should try to be. If you think trying to be someone you’re not makes you ‘cool’, you’re wrong. It’s time we

shows that high quality palliative care, when available, is effective.9 We need to ensure that it is available. Until then any legalisation of VAD is irresponsible.

Legalised VAD is a blank cheque for an unknown future While supporters of VAD will be eager to assert that safeguards prevent misuse, international experience shows that many of these safeguards are essentially ineffectual or can be changed over the course of time.

Recently, Oregon, for example, created an exception to its 15-day waiting period, allowing people who are ‘likely’ to die within the 15-day period to end their lives earlier. It is not clear how one could ever be sure with Oregon’s oversight framework whether a person really was going to die within 15 days or not.

Once we legally sanction physician assisted suicide or euthanasia there is nothing that prevents a government from liberalising those laws potentially at the expense of vulnerable people in our society.

Legalised VAD goes against the advice of medical professionals VAD is opposed by the Australian Medical Association (AMA), as well as each state-based branch of the AMA. VAD is also opposed by the Australian and New Zealand Society of Geriatric Medicine. The World Medical

Association and the American Medical Association are also opposed to it.

Medical practitioners have an ethical duty to care for dying patients so that death is allowed to occur in comfort and with dignity. Assisted suicide and euthanasia shifts the focus and role of caregivers, particularly physicians, from preserving life to ending it – a seismic shift in the role of medical professionals.

According to the World Medical Association: “Physician-assisted suicide, like euthanasia, is unethical and must be condemned by the medical profession.

Where the assistance of the physician is intentionally and deliberately directed at enabling an individual to end his or her own life, the physician acts unethically.”

The No Euthanasia Alliance strives for compassion and dignity in our health system Legalised VAD presents a major threat to the ethos of our society by undermining the value we have always placed on the worth and dignity of every individual in society and their right to effective and compassionate care. We urge all Queenslanders and our elected representatives to uphold these values and oppose state-sanctioned, tax-payerfunded assisted suicide.

Nutrition tips for people over 50

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Suhani Sharma learned to accept our personalities, our ethnicity, our accents, our body shape, our quirks, our dance moves, our laughs, everything. This is what real self-love is. And, why not go a little extra? Share this love with those around you. Don’t body shame others, don’t make fun of their skin color or their personality and hobbies. Everyone’s unique, and that’s what makes this world an interesting place to live in. So, remember to take a day off once in a while. You don’t just need it, you deserve it. Even just going out for a coffee or a walk in the park is showing kindness to yourself, and as I mentioned before, loving yourself doesn’t mean you should go on foreign trips every month, it’s all in the little things, all in what makes you smile. And, don’t forget to share this love with other. What’s wrong with making someone else smile?

geing is inevitable, irreversible and progressive.

What's more is that it brings along many changes to the bodily functions and affects most organs. But nutrition has a great role to play in healthy ageing, says Dr Aastha, Head Clinical Nutrition, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, India.

"People face several health issues due to age and lack of adequate nutrition can add to the severity of the situation. Therefore, proper nutrient intake is essential for people. As nutrient requirement of people changes with age, one must know what to eat and what not to, based on the condition of their body," she said.

Few factors that might lead to reduced food intake after one hits 50 are loss of appetite, decreased sense of taste and/or smell, difficulty chewing and/or swallowing, loss of physical strength or mobility, chronic conditions and medication, mental and emotional factors, financial insecurity.

Some do's and don'ts for people of age 50 years and above • Adopt easy-to-digest, easy-toabsorb, small frequent meals

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• Limit sugars, sweet beverages, undiluted juices, prefer fruits • Add plenty of fluids to your diet as they keep you hydrated and boost digestion • Replace refined cereals and grains with whole grain cereals and pulses • The fibre composition in diet should be moderate • Limit sedentary lifestyle - be physically active • Two-three servings of seasonal fruits should be included every day's meal • Add onion, ginger, garlic, lemon, cumin seeds, carom seeds, fenugreek seeds, almonds, walnuts, coconut water in diet as these are good for muscular flexibility, prevent water retention and swelling and also contribute to maintain healthy blood pressure MARCH 2020

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Indian News Queensland | MIGRATION

Q&A session with our migration expert Question 1: J E Roy I would like to know if there is any possibility to get PR or what I can do more to achieve it. I completed Master in IT and a professional year and have been assessed as ICT security professional. I have been living in a regional area for 4 years now.

A: As per the information provided, your occupation is in the skilled occupation list eligible for independent PR migration to Australia. Currently, your nominated occupation is also one of the occupations that need higher points to get invitation for main application. At this stage you need 90 points to get an invitation. However, you can explore state nomination options as well. For successful state nominations, you should satisfy participating states’ own requirements.

Question 2: Oluwadamilola I am in Australia and a permanent resident from Zimbabwe. I want to bring my family members to Australia on tourist visa for visit.

Do I need to show funds to apply for tourist visa?

A: For the visitor visa, there are different streams to apply. Your family members can use Tourist stream or Family stream for this visa category. If your relatives prefer Family stream, you need to provide sponsorship application with their visa application.

As the family sponsor, you have to give an undertaking that you agree to undertake all financial obligations to the Commonwealth incurred by the applicant or arising out of the applicant’s stay in Australia. You are responsible for compliance by the person you are sponsoring with all the conditions under which that person is allowed to enter Australia.

As the sponsor of the visa applicant, you may be requested to arrange for the lodgement of a security bond, the amount of which is determined on a case-by-case basis by a delegated officer.

Question 3: P C Jose I would like to get some directions from you for the application of PR in Australia. I am a Master of Research (MRes) student in Australia. I am a B. Tech and ME degree holder and have worked as research associate and lecturer

Send all your queries and doubts on migration to us on:

info@indiannewsqld.com.au

Seema Chauhan contesting for Division 10, Gold Coast, in Council elections

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n the coming Gold Coast City Council elections on 28 March, Indian migrant Seema Chauhan, an independent candidate and a passionate Gold Coaster, is contesting for the new Division 10, which includes Broadbeach, Broadbeach Waters, Bundall, Chevron Island, Isle of Capri, Main Beach and Surfers Paradise.

Chauhan first came to Gold Coast as an international student from India in 1998. Having loved the city greatly, she had enrolled in Griffith University and later made Gold Coast her abode.

In 2004, after she gave birth to twin girls, she studied migration law and worked as a migration agent in Broadbeach.

Part of her plan to bring value to the Division 10 electorate is to showcase Gold Coast to the entertainment industry, particularly the Bollywood industry, which she was a part of in the past. As reported in Gold Coast Bulletin, Chauhan plans to showcase Gold Coast to the film industry to boost the city’s profile. She wants the Glitter Strip to diversify the way it promotes itself as a tourism destination. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

Seema Chauhan “We’ve got beautiful pristine beaches, beautiful hinterland we can showcase through influencers from different parts of the world,” she told Gold Coast Bulletin last month.

“Involving production houses at initial levels of production so when they come to shoot they showcase the Gold Coast as the Gold Coast. And that can work to market the Gold Coast as a tourism destination. When celebrities travel there’s a huge following, and people look at that location to travel to next time,” she added.

for two years. My partner is an electrical engineer having one year's experience. Can you tell me about my options for PR? A: You may not get enough points for independent skilled migration in a nominated occupation that suits your current qualifications and work experience. We advise you to complete your current course in Australia and move to Graduate Visa (subclass 485) initially and get local experience in your nominated occupation. You may get more options, including state nomination, during that period.

Your partner’s qualification, skills and English language proficiency can also add more points for you PR migration application process.

Question 4: S J Mathew I am a post graduate in civil engineering with two years of experience. I would like to migrate to Australia. As migrating to Australia with two years of work experience is not acceptable, I am looking forward to study over there. I heard about MS program in research (Civil Engineering) in Australia.

Is the above mentioned course, which is of two years duration,

PR-eligible course? What about the employment opportunities of a civil engineer in Australia?

A: You may note your nominated occupation, Civi Engineer, is in the skilled occupation list eligible for PR migration to Australia, including employer nominated visas. You need to get higher points to get invitation to lodge main application under skill select migration program. Currently it is 90 points for Civil Engineers. Your intention to undertake MS in Civil Engineering in Australia is definitely a good option before initiating migration options. You will get stay back option in Australia up to 3 years, which will help acquire more work experience and explore more options for PR migration.

Question 5: A Zacharias I am a registered nurse and have experience for four years. I want to migrate to Australia. Do I need to complete adaptation course to mig rate?

A: As a registered nurse, you need to get AHPRA registration initially before exploring options for migration to Australia. Your overseas qualification would be assessed

PRATHAP LAKSHMANAN MA, LLB, LLM, GradDipLP (Lawyer & Migration Agent / Qualified Education Agent Counsellor) TN Lawyers & Immigration Consultants

Solicitor Prathap Lakshmanan against equivalent Australian qualification at first stage, and we advise you to get registration in Australia.

Nursing Bridging Program, known as adaptation course, was a method to get equalisation of overseas qualification in Australia. This has been changed recently. The AHPRA has moved to Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) as a registration requirement for overseas-trained registered nurses.

No new applicants for registration can avail the adaption course after 21/02/2020.

Email: info@tnlawyers.com.au Web: www.tnlawyers.com.au Skype: prathap.tnmc

HSQ performs Indra Pooja for rain and peace

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indu Society of Queensland, in conjunction with Brahman Purohit Sabha of Queensland, performed Indra pooja last month for relief from drought and fires and also peace prayer for victims who have been affected by bushfires in Queensland and New South Wales.

Hawan yag and peace prayer was held at Gayatri Mandir, and prayer, jaap and 108 ahuti was led by Pt Sanat Pandey, Pt Suresh Shandil, Pt Brijesh Maharaj and other invited purohit.

Prasad and mahaprasad (lunch) was provided to the devotees.

Indra Pooja at Hindu Society of Qld premises

2020 calendar of events at Gayatri Mandir / Hindu Society of Qld

Weekly programs

Major Programs

1. E very Tuesday, from 7pm: Ramayan and Kirtans

1. Shree Ram Naomi: 25 March to 2 April

2. E very Friday, from 7pm: Ramayan and Kirtans

2. Hanumaan Jayanti: 8 April

3. E very Sundays, 4pm to 6pm: Kirtans and Aarti

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3. Grand Musical Nite: Date and venue to be announced (early June)

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Indian News Queensland | BOOKS AND LITERATURE

India a $5 tn economy by 2025 unrealistic: Montek Singh Ahluwalia

By Vishnu Makhijani

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rime Minister Narendra Modi's dream of India rising to a $5 trillion economy by 2025 is unrealistic though it will happen at some time, says Montek Singh Ahluwalia, a former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, whose document prepared in 1990 largely influenced the economic reforms unveiled the next year, in his book "Backstage - The Story Behind India's High Growth Years". He is also extremely harsh on "two major policy mistakes" of the present government -- demonetisation and the hasty implementation of GST. To become a $5 trillion economy "calls for an average growth rate of about 9 percent in real terms over the six-year period from 2019-20 to 2024-25. With growth below 5 percent in 2019-20, and only a slow recovery expected next year, achieving an average of 9 percent for the period as a whole is simply not credible. We will certainly get to $5 trillion, but it will be a few years later," Ahluwalia writes in the book, which has been published by Rupa.

"A more realistic target would be to try to reach a growth rate of around 8 percent per year as quickly as possible. This is certainly necessary if we want to continue to reduce poverty and generate the employment needed to satisfy our young and aspirational labour force.

Is 8 percent growth feasible? India did achieve GDP growth of 8.5

percent in the first seven years of the UPA, but a return to that growth rate is easier said than done," Ahluwalia warns.

India's growth was at 6.8 percent in 2018-19 and dropped to 5 percent in 2019-20. It is expected to "strongly rebound" to 6-6.5 percent in 2020-21, the Economic Survey tabled in Parliament on January 31 said.

Demonetisation, Ahluwalia writes, "came as a complete surprise when the government on 8 November 2016 announced that all currency notes of denominations Rs 1,000 and Rs 500, accounting for 86 percent of the value of currency with the public, were no longer legal tender. Holders of these notes were given up to 31 December to take the notes to banks to convert them into new notes. The decision was originally presented as a decisive attack on black money and corruption, but as that particular justification seemed difficult to sustain, several other justifications were advanced."

"Raghuram Rajan, who was then governor of the RBI, was consulted informally about a possible demonetization and he had advised that any long-term benefits would not be worth the short-term costs.

In any case, he counselled that if the government was determined to demonetise, there should be careful planning to ensure adequate supply of new notes. In

Book cover with former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission Montek Singh Ahluwalia fact, demonetisation was hastily announced a couple of months after Raghu's term as governor came to an end."

Rajan's fears were "amply vindicated. People rushed to banks to exchange their holdings of old notes for new notes, but as there was a shortage of new notes, amounts handed over to banks could only be credited to their bank accounts, from which cash withdrawals were permitted on a restricted basis until the supply of new notes could catch up with demand. The shortage of cash disrupted agricultural markets and operations in the informal sector, both of which are highly

cash-dependent", Ahluwalia writes.

Eight months later, "the economy received a second jolt when the GST was introduced in July 2017.

Unlike demonetisation, which had very little support from professional economists, the GST was universally regarded as a major reform of the indirect tax system. It was expected to generate larger revenues, and also simplify the system but it failed on both counts because of a flawed design and poor implementation."

Also, "frequent changes in the rates added to the confusion, giving the signal that rates could be adjusted through lobbying, which goes completely contrary to the signal of stability that GST should normally convey", Ahluwalia maintains.

He also cautions against "strong centralised governments", a scenario that is now unfolding in India.

"Strong centralised governments have some advantages but they also have a major disadvantage: the failure to provide room for different views. This reduces the likelihood that policy mistakes will be acknowledged and corrected.

"Manmohan Singh recognised the importance of encouraging free expression of views and descent in a liberal democracy. We are now about to go through a different experience with a government enjoying a strong majority and also one which was expected to rely on much greater centralisation of power in the PMO," Ahluwalia maintains.

Ahluwalia concludes that India's "transition to high growth was not a chance development. It was achieved by deliberate policy steps taken by those who had conviction and belief in the need for change.

Changing policies in a country as complex as India has to go much beyond making declarations of intent. It needs an open society where businessmen and other stakeholders are free to criticise the government and draw attention to whatever is not working. It needs a team of technically skilled professionals with the ability to understand economic issues offering honest advice to the political class.

It also needs a political class that can combine the unavoidable compulsions of adversarial politics with working towards building consensus on the broad direction of economic policy".

"Good economics may not seem to be good politics in the short run, but wise political leaders will realise that it is almost always the best politics in the long run. How to marry the two is, in some sense, the real test of political leadership.

I remain an unrelenting optimist that our political system can resolve this conflict and that the India story of high growth and development will therefore continue. India can and must return to its high growth years-our younger generation deserves nothing less."

8th Delhi 'Made in India' Literature for the world Festival to begin R on March 6

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he eighth edition of the Delhi Literature Festival (DLF) will begin from March 6 at Dilli Haat.

The three-day event will witness an assemblage of writers and experts from different fields like fashion, acting come together in the seaside town to discuss and deliberate on various issues of the country.

The line-up of authors includes Anupam Kher - Lessons Life Taught Me Unknowingly, www.indiannewsqld.com.au

Arvind Parashar - All You Need is Love, An Unexpected Gift by Ajay K Pandey, Friendship Lasts Forever: If You Never Had Friends, You Never Lived Life by Shrishti and Trilok Deshmukh, Dr. Bibek Debroy Making of New India, Devdutt Pattanaik, Jairam Ramesh - Chequered Brilliance: The Many Lives of VK Krishna Menon, The Scent of God by Saikat Majumdar, and heaps more acclaimed authors with their current works.

ewind. Go back to 1995.

Try remembering the Indian pop song and video that caught the fancy of an entire generation and sold around five million copies, with the man featuring in it replacing Tom Cruise posters from rooms in many girls' hostels.

Now, when Milind Soman looks back at "Made in India" by Alisha China, he smiles, " I did not like the song or the video at first. Now, of course, it looks magical. It's a true pop classic."

In his recently released memoir 'Made in India', co-authored with Roopa Rai and published by Penguin Books, Soman talks about his life controversies, relationships, breaking of habits like smoking and drinking, and controlling rage in a freewheeling manner.

Speaking about how the book was conceived, the 54-year-old remembers, "Penguin approached me about six years ago. Initially, I

didn't think that there was anything to write about, but then my business partner convinced me. I found Roopa Rai on Facebook and spoke to her and finally decided what I wanted to say."

Starting out as a champion swimmer to supermodel to actor to extreme sportsperson, who in 2017 successfully completed the Ultrathon in Florida and was the only participant to complete the 84-kilometre run component of it barefoot, Soman is busy with several things nowadays. "Events for my company Maximus, and some film and TV projects. Also, my wife loves to travel, so we do that a lot," he says.

For someone whose personal life has been under the tabloid media's gaze for long, the fact doesn't really bother him. "Well, I have been a public figure for the last 30 years. As an essentially private person, it's the first thing I got used to," he says.

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Milind Soman

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Indian News Queensland | WHAT'S ON

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Indian News Queensland | WHAT'S ON

SRI SELVA VINAYAKAR KOYIL (GANESHA TEMPLE) BRISBANE (South Maclean)

Newsletter 158-30

Panguni/Phalguna Month (mid-March 2020 to mid-April 2020) Festivals Dear Sri Selva Vinayaka devotees, Hindu Ahlaya Sangam Qld Inc (HASQ) cordially invites you to Sri Selva Vinayakar Temple Brisbane (South Maclean) for Panguni/ Phalguna Month Festivals.

Sri Ayyapan Meena Rasi Masa Abishekam/Panguni Maasa Pirappu (Phalguna month ) on Saturday 14 March 2020 Lalitha Sahastranama Stotram Chanting on Sunday 15 March 2020 Pirathosha Viratham on Saturday 21 March & Monday 6 April 2020 Monthly Chathurthi Viratham on Saturday 28 March 2020 Sri Rama Navami on Thursday 02 April 2020 Vishnu Shastranamam & Paaraayanam on Sunday 5 April 2020 Sri Selva Vinayakar Mahotsawam starts with Kodi Eatrum on 6 Monday April 2020 Panguni Utharam on Tuesday 07 April 2020 Sankatakara Chathurthi on Saturday 07 April 2020 Powrnami & SathyaNarayanar Poojai on Wednesday 08 April 2020 Sri Selva Vinayakar Chariot Festival /Hindu New Year Saarvari Varusham Starts on Tuesday 14 April 2020 Visit Brisbane Sri Selva Vinayakar (Ganesha) Temple and get the Blessing of Lord Ganesha.

For further information please contact our Temple or the Secretary Mr: M.Surendra on Mobile-0407-753991

Temple Website: http://www.sriselvavinayakar.org Follow us on (click the icons): 4915-4923, Mt Lindesay Highway, South Maclean, Queensland-4280, Australia, Phone: +61 7 5547 7302

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Indian News Queensland | WHAT'S ON

BTA arranges blood donation camp in four Brisbane centres

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risbane Telangana Association conducted its annual blood bank camp for 2020 in Brisbane City, Chermside, Ipswich and Springwood on February 1.

The association's president Praveen Reddy, Secretary Prabhakar Bachu, Treasurer Mukesh Dubey and the BTA community members all came together to make the blood donation drive possible

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Indian News Queensland | ENTERTAINMENT

Indian Movies Coming Soon '83'

Chal mera putt 2 Language: Punjabi (with English subtitles) Director: Janjot Singh Chal Mera Putt 2 is a sequel to the 2019 film Chal Mera Putt and stars Amrinder Gill and Simi Chahal in lead roles. The film was shot in Birmingham, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Release Date: 13 March, 2020

Sooryavanshi Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Producer: Reliance, Rohit Shetty Films and Dharma Productions Director: Rohit Shetty Cast: Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Anupam Kher Sooryavanshi is an upcoming action film directed by Rohit Shetty and produced by Shetty and Karan Johar under their banner of Rohit Shetty Picturez and Dharma Productions respectively, in association with Reliance Entertainment and Cape Of Good Films.

Release Date: 27 March, 2020 Release Date: 10 April, 2020 Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Producer: Reliance Entertainment, Kabir Khan Films

Director: Kabir Khan Cast: Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Tahir Raj Bhasin, Harrdy Sandhu, Ammy Virk, Boman Irani Synopsis: The film tells the story of India's incredible 1983 Cricket World Cup victory.

Kaamyaab Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Producer: Gauri Khan, Manish Mundra, Gaurav Verma Director: Hardik Mehta Cast: Sanjay Mishra, Deepak Dobriyal, Isha Talwar Kaamyaab is the journey of Sudheer, a washed up side actor from the heyday of Bollywood. Years after his retirement, he realises that he 'retired' on the verge of accomplishing a unique record. He decides to come out of his retirement to complete the round figure of 500 and get that one substantial role for which he will be remembered forever.

Kaamyaab features veteran actor Sanjay Mishra who himself has played typical side roles in many Hindi movies and with this film he gets a titular role like never before.

Baaghi 3

Release date: 6 March, 2020

Lootcase

Release Date: 6 March, 2020 Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Producer: Sajid Nadiadwala Director: Ahmed Khan Cast: Tiger Shroff, Riteish Deshmukh, Shraddha Kapoor Synopsis: Baaghi 3 is an upcoming action thriller directed

by Ahmed Khan. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and distributed by Fox Star Studios, it is a spiritual sequel to Baaghi and Baaghi 2.

www.indiannewsqld.com.au

Release Date: 10 April, 2020

Language: Hindi (with English subtitles) Director: Rajesh Krishnan Cast: Aakash Dabhade, Kunal Khemu, Rasika Dugal, Gajraj Rao, Ranvir Shorey, Vijay Raaz Nandan Kumar finds a bag full of cash and knows nothing about who it belongs to, where it came from, or how it got there. Will he take it? Or will he leave it?

Kunal Khemu will be seen as Nandan Kumar, Rasika Dugal as Lata, Vijay Raaz as Bala Rathore, Ranvir Shorey as Inspector Kolte and Gajraj Rao as MLA Patil.

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Allu Arjun song 'Botta Bomma' is a TikTok blockbuster

Allu Arjun song 'Botta Bomma' is a TikTok blockbuster

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outhern superstar Allu Arjun's latest release "Ala Va i k u n t h a p u r r a m l o o " became an instant hit on release, and the song from the film, "Botta Bomma", has become a blockbuster on TikTok. On the short video-making platform, hashtag #bottabomma

currently enjoys 36 million views, while #buttobommasong has 1.3 million views.

TikTok users are seen performing the superhit hook step from the number.

In fact, Allu Arjun himself has become a fan of some the fan

videos of the song. On February 10, he shared a video of his choice where a fan can be seen dancing on the track. "This was the most heart touching one of all the #ButtaBomma Videos.

I felt so happy to see that music takes us farrr beyond our limits. #Inspiring," Allu Arjun wrote alongside the video, which continued to trend well even after a week.

"Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo" is an action-drama directed by Trivikram Srinivas. The film also features Pooja Hegde, Tabu, Jayaram, Sushanth, Navdeep, Nivetha Pethuraj, Samuthirakani, Murali Sharma, Sunil, Sachin Khedekar, and Harsha Vardhan.

According to deccanherald.com, "Ala Vaikunthapurramloo", which hit screens on January 12, 2020, has collected over a whopping Rs 250 crore, and counting.

Rana Daggubati on his transformation for 'Aranya'

Indian News Queensland | ENTERTAINMENT

Suriya shares a 'happy selfie' with wife Jyothika

Southern superstar Suriya in a happy selfie with his actress-wife Jyothika

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outhern superstar Suriya has shared a happy selfie with his actress-wife Jyothika.

Suriya took to Instagram on Feb 19 to share an adorable photograph of himself with Jyothika. The two are seen looking at the camera and smiling.

The actor wrote just this alongside the image: "@jyothikah" The photograph currently has over 2000 likes on the photo-sharing website.

Kajal Aggarwal's dramatic first look from 'Mosagallu' unveiled

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Actor Rana Daggubati during a programme in Hyderabad

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ctor Rana Daggubati says as he began journeying with the character "Aranya", which involved him spending time in the forest, and he got to understand how a man from the jungles would look like.

For his forthcoming movie "Aranya", he took his body transformations to the extreme, undertook immense physical and mental efforts to portray the character.

"As I began journeying with the character, which involved me spending time in the forest and getting to know a herd of elephants, it started becoming clearer how this person, a forest man, would look. www.indiannewsqld.com.au

And here we are, looking at Aranya/ Bandev/Kaadan in his present form," said Rana.

The trilingual film explores the relationship between a mahout and his elephant. The film will also release as "Haathi Mere Saathi" in Hindi and "Kaadan" in Tamil. "It is an incredible film and equally incredible role," Rana said.

The movie shot in two countries, in four forest locales in Kerala, Mahabaleshwar, Mumbai in India, and in Thailand, took 250 days to shoot, involving 145 cast and crews.

Rana is the protagonist in all three titles. While Pulkit Samrat plays Rana's parallel lead in the Hindi version, southern actor Vishnu Vishal essays the role in "Kaadan"

and "Aranya". The heroines in all three versions are Shriya Pilgaonkar and Zoya Hussain.

The movie is inspired by the unfortunate event of humans encroaching upon the elephant corridor in Kaziranga, Assam. The film traces the narrative of a man, essayed by Rana, who dedicates most of his life living in the jungle, with the sole purpose of protecting wild animals.

Produced by Eros International, the film's VFX has been done by Prana Studios, who have worked on Hollywood biggies such as "Life Of Pi", "Thor" and the Bollywood film, "Detective Bymokesh Bakshi".

It is slated to hit the screens on April 2.

On the acting front, Suriya will be seen in "Aakaasam Nee HaddhuRa" directed by Sudha Kongara. The film will release on April 8.

On the Bollywood front, he will be seen sharing screen space with R Madhavan in the upcoming film "Rocketry - The Nambi Effect".

The film is based on the life of scientist and aerospace engineer S. Nambi Narayanan.

It marks the directorial debut of Madhavan, who also essays the role of the protagonist in the film.

The first look of actress Kajal Aggarwal from her upcoming film Mosagallu starring Vishnu Manchu is out

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he first look of actress Kajal Aggarwal from her upcoming film "Mosagallu" starring Vishnu Manchu is out.

Kajal, who will be seen as the female lead in her next Tollywood film "Mosagallu", took to Twitter and shared her first look from the film.

In the poster, Kajal looks dramatic in a white sleeveless blazer.

The film, directed by Jeffrey Gee Chin, also features Sunil Shetty in a lead role. The movie is based on a true story about the world's biggest IT scam.

Sunil will be seen playing a police officer, while Kajal and actress Ruhani Singh are in the female lead roles.

The movie will be released worldwide this summer.

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Indian News Queensland | ENTERTAINMENT

Bigg Boss 13: Deepika Padukone Sidharth Shukla shares her first look as ruled Twitter Romi Dev in '83' this season

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ctor Sidharth Shukla was not only the most talked-about contestant of "Bigg Boss 13", but also the most tweeted-about personality from the recently concluded reality show.

According to Twitter India, "Bigg Boss 13" was a hit on the digital platform. Compared to 41 million tweets in 2019, Twitter recorded over 105 million tweets between January 1, 2020 and the show's finale (February 15). In fact, with these numbers, the season became the most talked about season of the reality show on Twitter.

Sidharth, who won the show, became the season's most tweeted

about contestant, with Asim Riaz in the second position. Ironically, Asim became the first runner of the show as well.

Actress Rashami Desai, who made it to the season's top 5 finalists, was third in the list, followed by Himanshi Khurana and Shehnaz Gill.

Throughout the season, fans of "Bigg Boss" engaged in conversations on the service, sometime sharing their displeasure about the events of the house, sometimes coming forward to support their favourite housemate and sometimes cherishing bonds made inside house like the popular #Sidnaaz.

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ctress Deepika Padukone on Feb 19 unveiled her look as Romi Dev, wife of cricket legend Kapil Dev, in the upcoming film "83".

She says the film is an ode to every woman who puts her husband's dream before her own.

In the photo, she is dressed in a black top and peach coloured bottom, and sporting a short hairdo. She is seen smiling at actor Ranveer Singh, who plays Kapil in the film.

Deepika captioned it: "To be able to play a small but significant part in a film that captures one of the most iconic moments in sporting history has been an absolute honour."

"I've seen very closely the role a wife plays in the success of her husband's professional and personal aspirations in my mother and '83' for me in many ways is an ode to every woman who puts her husband's dream before her own," added the daughter of badminton star Prakash Padukone.

The film's director Kabir Khan shared: "I have always thought of Deepika as a phenomenal actress and when I was thinking of casting for Romi Dev's role, I could only think of her. Romi has a disarmingly charming and positive energy and Deepika has captured that with perfection."

"Her easy chemistry with Ranveer will also greatly help in portraying the relationship that Kapil Dev and Romi share. I'm delighted that Deepika has been such an integral part of our journey for '83'," added the director about Deepika, who is married to Ranveer in real life too.

The film is produced by Deepika Padukone, Kabir Khan, Vishnu Vardhan Induri, Sajid Nadiadwala, Phantom Films, Reliance Entertainment and 83 Film Ltd. The film is slated to release on April in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

Alia on 'Friends' reunion: "I may just pass out with joy"

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ctresses Malaika Arora, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Amrita Arora can be seen setting friendship goals in a new photograph.

In the photograph doing the rounds on social media, Kareena, Malaika and Amrita strike a jolly pose for the camera.

On the evening of Feb 19, Kareena hosted a dinner party at her place where Malaika arrived with her son Arhaan Khan and rumoured boyfriend Arjun Kapoor, according to pinkvilla.com. Others who were at the dinner included Karisma Kapoor, Mallika Bhat and Amrita Arora.

www.indiannewsqld.com.au

On the acting front, Kareena will next be seen in "Angrezi Medium".

The film also stars Irrfan Khan and is scheduled to hit the screens on March 13.

"Angrezi Medium" revolves around a relationship between a single father, played by Irrfan, and his daughter (Radhika Madan).

"Angrezi Medium" is directed by Homi Adajania and the film also stars Dimple Kapadia, Pankaj Tripathi, Deepak Dobriyal, Ranvir Shorey and others.

The film is presented by Jio studios and Prem Vijan.

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Indian News Queensland | ENTERTAINMENT

A sneak peak at Dabboo Ratnani's 2020 calendar

Source: Dabbo Ratnani Photography

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he famous calendar by celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani, which features some of the biggest names in the entertainment business, is out. From classic black and white photos, to outdoor nature, to close up shots and even bare body pictures, the stars drop all inhibitions for this one.

Actresses Bhumi Pednekar and Kiara Advani showed their bold avatar in a new calendar shoot.

Bhumi also took to social media to post the photo in which she is posing on the bathtub sans clothes.

She captioned it: "July 2020 #dabbooratnanicalendar."

Kiara, on the other hand, held a banana leaf for the shoot. She captioned the photo, which she shared on social media, "A leaf out of #DabbooRatnaniCalendar! @ dabbooratnani @manishadratnani."

Actress Sunny Leone, who gave updates on social media from the calendar's launch event, is seen sitting with her legs crossed and holding a big book with no clothes on.

Actor Vicky Kaushal too went shirtless. He is seen taking a dip in a pool in the photo.

Alia Bhatt, the powerhouse of talent, needs nothing but her expression to tell a million tales

Jacqueline Fernandes_ love for animals is well known and is portrayed in this equestrian-themed photo

A white shirt is all Kriti Sanon needs to work her magic

The Lust Stories star Kiara Advani strips down for this photo in a natural setting

Alia Bhatt, the powerhouse of talent, needs nothing but her expression to tell a million tales

This bare body picture of Bhumi Pednekar beautifully captures the sensual actor's raw emotion

Kareena, Malaika, Amrita redefine friendship goals in new pic

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ctresses Malaika Arora, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Amrita Arora can be seen setting friendship goals in a new photograph.

In the photograph doing the rounds on social media, Kareena, Malaika and Amrita strike a jolly pose for the camera.

On the evening of Feb 19, Kareena hosted a dinner party at her place where Malaika arrived with her son Arhaan Khan and rumoured boyfriend Arjun Kapoor, according to pinkvilla.com. Others who were at the dinner included Karisma Kapoor, Mallika Bhat and Amrita Arora.

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On the acting front, Kareena will next be seen in "Angrezi Medium".

The film also stars Irrfan Khan and is scheduled to hit the screens on March 13.

"Angrezi Medium" revolves around a relationship between a single father, played by Irrfan, and his daughter (Radhika Madan).

"Angrezi Medium" is directed by Homi Adajania and the film also stars Dimple Kapadia, Pankaj Tripathi, Deepak Dobriyal, Ranvir Shorey and others.

The film is presented by Jio studios and Prem Vijan.

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