IndiaPost_08-06-2010 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Swarnim Gujarat celebrations kicked off in NJ Details on page 12

VOL 16, No. 830

August 6, 2010

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Periodical Postage

U.S. MUM ON KAYANI, TALIBAN COLLUSION ISLAMABAD: As the US searches for an exit from Afghanistan, it is increasingly relying on Pakistan's powerful army chief to help pave the way - despite fresh allegations that spies under his command have long aided the Taliban. Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani's critical role in the Afghan conflict was reinforced this month when the civilian government extended his term by three years. Kayani, 58, is known to be popular among US and NATO generals who

have sought to enlist his help in battling militants along the country's border with Afghanistan. So crucial is Kayani to the American war effort that when classified documents were posted by Wikileaks last week suggesting that Pakistani spies led by Kayani had colluded with the Taliban, the Obama administration didn't utter a word of opprobrium against him publicly. Details on page 6

Karun Rishi

America-India healthcare summit in Boston

Kamlesh Dave on Board of VA varsity Details on page 6

India joins body to fight financial terrorism

Karzai: Target militants outside Afghanistan

BlackBerry to address India's security concern

Details on page 6

NRI woman arrested in dowry case

Details on page 9

CBI seeks case against Tytler dismissed

Details on page 7

Details on page 9 FESTIVAL SPIRIT: South Asian community members break into dance at the South Asian Arts and Activism Street Fair organized in Jackson Heights, New York -Pic Yamoni Bari. Report on page 13

US Gen for India, Pakistan joint military classes

Indian-American US envoy to visit AMU Details on page 7

Details on page 10

INDIA POST SURVEY survey@indiapost.com This week’s question

Will the US ever get wise to Pak duplicity? Last week’s result

Is the US bypassing India’s interest in Afghanistan? NO 27%

Details on page 13

Details on page 7

Details on page 8

YES 73%

Preity Zinta will be I-Day Parade Grand Marshal

Dr. Desh Deshpande

Desh Deshpande appointed to President's advisory council

CONTENTS

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lright folks, I am climbing on to the bandwagon of people across the globe who are discussing, analyzing, opinionating on, condemning, dissecting and or simply pooh-poohing the mega US military document leak on WikiLeaks. 90,000 documents - that's huge and I must say somebody really ought to have had an even bigger stash of patience to upload all that stuff onto what is essentially a whistle-blowers' website. What's interesting to me is how the Obama administration is downplaying the revelations in those documents about Pakistani military and its spy agency ISI's active involvement with the Taliban in counter-fighting the US troops in Afghanistan. So much so that I am sensing the US government is subtly trying to push attention on to Iran's involvement in that god forsaken country if only to take the attention off of Pakistan or - call me a conspiracy theorist - to build a further case against Iran. Whatever the case might be, no one can deny the ridiculously dangerous situation the US is in with Pakistan. After having pumped in over $18 billion into Pakistan over the last nine odd years, the US is not at all confident it is getting its money's worth by way of cooperation from Pakistani military in the fight against al Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. Washington is painfully aware of the fact that the ISI, the Pakistani Taliban as also the Haqqani network have been fueling the insurgency in Afghanistan making the very concept of 'victory' in that war, an impossible prospect. Pakistan's singular reason for carrying on this dangerous game playing is its obsessive paranoia of India. Well, we all know that. But if the US is deliberately ignoring it, it should prepare itself to fight its biggest war yet - against the Frankenstein that goes by the name of Pakistan, that the US has created with its own taxpayers' money and it's policy establishment's stupidity.

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Cover Story: Mum on Kayani The US is increasingly relying on Kayani despite allegations that spies under his command have long aided the Taliban.

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Travel: Mahabalipuram There were seven pagodas or temples on the shores of Mahabalipuram. All but one were pillaged by the rapacious sea.

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US mum on Kayani, Taliban collusion ISLAMABAD: As the US searches for an exit from Afghanistan, it is increasingly relying on Pakistan's powerful army chief to help pave the way - despite fresh allegations that spies under his command have long aided the Taliban. Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani's critical role in the Afghan conflict was reinforced this month when the civilian government extended his term by three years. Kayani, 58, is known to be popular among US and NATO generals who have sought to enlist his help in battling militants along the country's border with Afghanistan. So crucial is Kayani to the American war effort that when classified documents were posted by Wikileaks last week suggesting that Pakistani spies led by Kayani had colluded with the Taliban, the Obama administration didn't utter a word of op-

Analysts believe talk of dubious alliances shows Kayani's desire to put Pakistan's interests first, no matter what that means for Washington or Kabul. Pakistan fears that Indian influence in Afghanistan threatens to leave the country flanked by hostile powers probrium against him publicly. The Americans need Kayani's cooperation to keep nucleararmed Pakistan stable and allow US missile strikes against alQaida in the country's northwestern border area.

PakistanĂs Chief of Army Staff General, Ashfaq Parvez Kayani meeting with troops during his visit to Swat

The Afghans are cozying up to him with an eye on using Pakistan's links to the Taliban ties which the Pakistani government denies still exist - to facilitate possible peace talks with the militants.

Karzai: Target militants outside Afghanistan KABUL: Afghan President Hamid Karzai is pushing his international partners to take stronger action against terrorist sanctuaries outside of Afghanistan. In a clear reference to havens in Pakistan, Karzai said: "The international community is here to fight terrorism, but there is danger elsewhere and they are not acting." Pressure is building on Pakistan to escalate the fight against militants on its soil, especially since the release of more than 90,000 leaked US military documents posted on the Web by WikiLeaks. The trove of US intelligence reports alleged close connections between Pakistan's intelligence agency and Taliban militants fighting Afghan and NATO troops in Afghanistan. Pakistan called the accusations malicious and unsubstantiated, but the push to persuade Pakistan to do more to eliminate Islamic extremists on its soil continues. In a wide-ranging news conference, Karzai said Afghanistan has deep ties with "our brothers" in Pakistan. He didn't mention Pakistan by name. But Karzai said while Afghanistan is working diplomatic channels to prevent nations from training, protecting and giving sanctuary to terrorists outside Afghanistan, only the international community has the capability of actually doing something

about them. "The question is, why are they not doing it?" Karzai said. British Prime Minister David Cameron said that Pakistan needs to make progress against terrorist groups on Pakistani soil. "To be fair, the Pakistan government -- they have taken action against these groups," he said.

Pressure is building on Pakistan to escalate the fight against militants on its soil, especially since the release of more than 90,000 leaked US military documents posted on the Web by WikiLeaks But refusing to back down from comments he made last week in India, Cameron added: "We need them to do more and we will support and help them as they do more". Karzai told reporters he ordered his Cabinet ministers to study the war papers, especially those that address Pakistan and civilian casualties in Afghanistan. He also said documents that disclosed the names of Afghans who have worked with the NATO-led force

were "shocking" and "irresponsible". "Their lives will be in danger now," he said. "This is a very serious issue." Karzai also was asked about the Obama administration's decision last week to target key leaders of the Afghan Taliban with new financial sanctions -- a move that could complicate relations with Pakistan and the Karzai government's efforts to try to talk with some insurgent factions. The action by the Treasury Department freezes the militants' assets, bans travel and triggers an arms embargo against three financial kingpins, including a key member of the al-Qaida linked Haqqani network, which directs operations against US and coalition forces in Afghanistan from Pakistan. It follows similar action by the United Nations earlier this week, and it comes after calls from Gen David Petraeus, the top military commander in Afghanistan, and Sen Carl Levin, Democrat-Michigan, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, for sanctions against Afghan insurgent commanders operating in Pakistan. Taken together, the US and UN sanctions prohibit any financial transactions of terrorist leaders in UN member countries, putting additional pressure on Pakistan to take broader actions against Taliban militants.-AP

And the Afghan Taliban are counting on him to limit the pressure they feel in their hideouts in Pakistan. Analysts believe talk of dubious alliances shows Kayani's desire to put Pakistan's interests

first, no matter what that means for Washington or Kabul. Pakistan fears that Indian influence in Afghanistan threatens to leave the country flanked by hostile powers - India to the east and Afghanistan to the west. President Barack Obama's plan to begin withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan in July 2011 raises the prospect that Taliban militants may someday share power in Kabul. So Pakistan can hardly afford to make enemies of various Afghan Taliban groups, analysts said. "Pakistan's and the United States' strategic interests have remained divergent," said Moeed Yusuf, a South Asia expert with the US Institute of Peace. "So ultimately, what Kayani is doing from his perspective is entirely rational once you accept his starting premise, which is Pakistan's strategic interest. -AP

Kamlesh Dave on Board of Visitors at Virginia Univ India Post News Service

the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. VCU currently is the fastest growing University in the Commonwealth of Virginia, developing a strategic plan for the future known as "VCU 2020." The plan includes concepts for about $1 billion in new academic, medical, recreation, student housing and parking facilities on VCU's Monroe Park and MCV Campuses. RIC-VA President Kishore Thota observed, "I have no doubt

NEW YORK: Virginia Governor Bob McDonnel has appointed longtime Republican fundraiser Dr. Kamlesh Dave to the Board of Visitors at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Dave, a Cardiologist practicing in Chester, Virginia and former Chief of Staff of the Southside Regional Medical Center serves as co-chair and trustee to the Cultural Center of India and serves as Vice Chairman of the Commonwealth Health Research Board. Recently elected Recently elected Chairman of Chairman of RIC-Re- RIC-Republican Indian Compublican Indian Committee of the Commonwealth mittee of the Commonwealth of Virginia, he is of Virginia, Dave is also a memalso a member of the ber of the Workman CompenWorkman Compensa- sation Medical Board of tion Medical Board of Virginia and was recently Virginia and was recently appointed to appointed to America America. Dr. Dave, a close friend of Gov- that Dr. Dave's wisdom and entreernor McDonnel, had worked on preneurial expertise will be of great his transition team for economic benefit to the University, the City development, and was the first In- of Richmond, and the Commondian American to be inducted into wealth of Virginia. On behalf of the Governor-Elect's inner circle of RIC-VA, I commend Dr. Dave on his continued service to the people advisers. Congratulating Dr. Dave on his of Virginia." Other Boards Dr. Dave serves appointment, the Republican Indian Committee (RIC) said, VCU is on include: Commonwealth Health one of the largest universities in Research Board, First Capital the Commonwealth of Virginia, Bank, Virginia and America Land and the university is one of three Fund. Dr. Dave is married to Bakula Virginia research universities with Dave, and has two children, Anoop high research activity according to and Bhumika.

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Desh Deshpande appointed to President's advisory council India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Indian American entrepreneur Dr. Desh Deshpande has been appointed a co-chair of the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a group that will support President Obama's national innovation strategy. US Commerce Secretary Gary Locke made the announcement mid-July, at a US Department of Commerce University Innovation Forum at the University of Michigan, where participants discussed the role of universities in innovation, economic development, job creation and commercialization of federally funded research. Deshpande is Chairman of Akshaya Patra USA, Tejas Networks, A123 Systems and Sycamore Networks. Prior to cofounding Sycamore Networks, Deshpande was founder and chairman of Cascade Communications Corp. He also serves as a member of the MIT Corporation, and his generous donations have made possible MIT's Deshpande Center for Technological Innovation. The National Advisory Council is expected to support President Obama's innovation strategy by helping to develop policies that foster entrepreneurship and identifying new ways to take great ideas from the lab to the marketplace to drive economic growth and create jobs.

"America's innovation engine is not as efficient or as effective as it needs to be, and we are not creating as many jobs as we should," Locke said. "We must get better at connecting the great ideas to the great company builders. The National Advisory Council will help the administration develop a broader strategy to spur innovation and enable entrepreneurs to develop breakthrough

Deshpande is Chairman of Akshaya Patra USA, Tejas Networks, A123 Systems and Sycamore Networks. Prior to co-founding Sycamore Networks, Deshpande was founder and chairman of Cascade Communications Corp technologies and dynamic companies, and to create jobs all across America. I want to extend my gratitude to the leaders selected to The National Advisory Council. Their work will be a key component of America's economic recovery." Throughout US history, basic research in public and private sector research labs has spawned new technologies and inventions

that led to new businesses. And those entrepreneurial businesses have been important drivers of job creation. Firms less than five years old have accounted for nearly all net new jobs in America over the last 30 years. Yet, as a share of gross domestic product, American federal investment in the physical sciences and engineering research has dropped by half since 1970. Since taking office, the president has taken significant steps to turn this trend around. The Recovery Act included $100 billion to support groundbreaking innovations in diverse fields, from healthcare IT and health research to smart grids and high speed trains. Last fall, the president announced a National Innovation Strategy, which called for doubling the budgets of agencies including the National Science Foundation, to better support basic research at our nation's universities. And the President's 2011 budget, while freezing domestic discretionary spending overall, increases funding for civilian research and development by $3.7 billion, or nearly 6 percent. The National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship will help build on this aggressive agenda. Members of the council include serial entrepreneurs, university presidents, investors and non-profit leaders. Other co-chairs include Steve Case and Mary Sue Coleman.

India joins global body to fight financial terrorism India Post News Service

help India in co-ordination of AML/CFT efforts at the international level. As a part of India's Membership, a joint FATF / Asia Pacific Group Mutual Evaluation Team visited India in November-December 2009 for on-site assessment of the country's compliance with the 40 9 Recommendations of FATF.

NEW YORK: India obtained full fledged membership of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-governmental body responsible for setting global standards on anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT). India had become Observer at FATF in the year 2006 and obtained full- FATF membership is very fledged Membership important for India in its this year. FATF membership is quest to become a major very important for India player in international fiin its quest to become a nance. It will help India major player in international finance. It will help to build the capacity to India to build the capac- fight terrorism, trace ity to fight terrorism, terrorist money trace terrorist money and successfully investigate Mutual Evaluation Report on Inand prosecute money laundering dia and its membership issues were and terrorist financing offences. India will also benefit in secur- discussed in the third meeting of FATF ing a more transparent and stable Plenary-XXI held inAmsterdam, Nethfinancial system by ensuring that erlands in June. FATF Plenary financial institutions are not vul- adopted the Mutual Evaluation nerable to infiltration or abuse by Report on India on June 24 and admitted India as the 34th Counorganized crime groups. The FATF process will also try Member of FATF on June 25.

NRI woman arrested in dowry case JAIPUR: An NRI woman has been arrested in connection with a dowry case and sent to two days of police custody, police said here. The woman, Aarti, was arrested yesterday from IGI airport in New Delhi after she landed from California. Aarti's daughter-in-law Neha Paliwal had lodged an FIR against her and her son Chanakya last year, they said. She was taken to Jaipur and produced before a local court

which remanded her to two days of police custody. In the FIR lodged in January 2009, Paliwal had alleged that her husband and his mother demanded Rs 10 lakh as dowry soon after the marriage, police said. When her parents were unable to fulfill their demands, both of them left for California after a few days leaving Neha with her parents, saying that they would take her only after their demands were met. -PTI

Indian-American US envoy to visit AMU

GREAT LEAP FORWARD: Two six month-old White Bengal Tigers - Panthera tigris (Linnaeus) play in an enclosure at The Nandankana Zoological Park on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar on July 29. There are estimated 1,400 tigers living in the wild in India, according to conservation group WWF

ALIGARH: Indian-American Rashad Husain, who is US Special Envoy to the Organization of Islamic Conference, will visit Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) here on August 2. Husain was appointed by US President Barack Obama in February as part of his government's initiative to "deepen and expand its relationship with the Muslim world".

Husain, whose family has roots in Gorakhpur, Patna and Aligarh, would address faculty members and administrative staff at AMU and also have an interactive session with the students, a spokesman of the University said. He is a product of Yale Law School and had earlier served as a Trial Attorney at the US Department of Justice. -PTI

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US-India healthcare summit highlights collaborations

Industry academic partnership panel

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NEW YORK: US-India BioPharma & Healthcare Summit 2010 organized by the USA-India Chamber of Commerce in Boston recently attracted over 350 senior Biopharma executives, investors and academic leaders. The annual summit has become the Biopharma event in the world for senior R&D executives involved with drug discovery and development. Inaugurating the summit,

confident, business and research partnerships will continue to grow leading to the development of new drugs helping the mankind globally.” Annual R&D spend of key global pharma firms participating at the summit was more than $30 billion. Prominent global leaders of the pharmaceutical industry and over 14 Deans/Chancellors and Vice Chancellors of top medical and public health schools participated

to Sanofi-Aventis’ Marc Cluzel to Johnson & Johnson’s Paul Stoffels agreed that building trust among big pharmaceutical companies, and with other stakeholders including academics and Indian service providers, is key to harnessing wider networks, improving pipeline attrition and bringing effective drugs to market faster and cheaper. Innovation will unlock value Martin Mackay highlighted two partnerships he believes are

Kiran Majumdar

laborate in the pre-competitive space. But there is a limit to how far collaboration can go, Stoffels noted. In the end, networks don’t discover drugs, people do. And pharma companies need teams of dedicated scientists who are likely to fail many times before getting it right, he said. Nevertheless, pharma should work together to

Biocon. To stay ahead of the innovation curve Biocon has actively collaborated with John Hopkins. Huge amount of learning can be shared between US and Indian academic institutions said Majumdar. She announced endowment scholarships for post doctoral candidates at the Koch institute of MIT.

Greater R&D collaboration was the theme of the day at the star-studded summit. Industry leaders ranging from Pfizer’s Martin Mackay to Merck’s Merv Turner to Sanofi-Aventis’ Marc Cluzel to Johnson & Johnson’s Paul Stoffels agreed that building trust among big pharmaceutical companies, and with other stakeholders including academics and Indian service providers, is key to harnessing wider networks Drug discovery panel

Karun Rishi, President of the USA-India Chamber of Commerce stated: “It is extraordinary to find so many senior global R&D leaders, Academicians and Venture Capitalists in one day at one place. This ecosystem has helped us come out with innovative ideas to foster innovation and expand BioPharma R&D partnerships between the US and India. We are

along with their outstanding senior research colleagues in the daylong summit. Industry-Academic partnerships will gain momentum due to senior level participation of academic leaders. Greater R&D collaboration was the theme of the day at the starstudded summit. Industry leaders ranging from Pfizer’s Martin Mackay to Merck’s Merv Turner

Audience

a sign of things to come. In one, Pfizer and GlaxoSmithKline have teamed up on a wholly owned subsidiary, ViiV Healthcare, focusing on HIV and AIDS, with each company contributing products and pipeline candidates. In another example, Mackay mentioned a pre-competitive collaboration among Pfizer, Lilly and Merck to launch the Asia Cancer Research Center, which aims to collect and share pharmacogenomic data on Asia cancers, focusing on biomarkers for lung and gastric cancers. Pre-competitive collaborations were a major focus of discussion at the summit. Johnson & Johnson’s Global Head of R&DPharma Paul Stoffels mentioned development of HIV biomarkers during the 1980s as another example where big pharma worked together to develop a framework that allowed for competition further up the R&D stream. Stoffels suggested that industry leaders sit down and hammer out how to better share and col-

find targets or select likely responders, and save competition for later trials and R&D execution, suggested Rod MacKenzie, head of worldwide research at Pfizer PharmaTherapeutics. MacKenzie also suggested that Pfizer needs to transform its one-to-one partnerships by linking them together into a “collaboration of collaborations.” Once accomplished, Pfizer should then link its network of partnerships to networks created by other big pharmas like Lilly and Merck, MacKenzie said. Creating communication networks USA-India Chamber of Commerce has created network between local and global innovation communities – academia and industry, which necessarily do not communicate with each other said Dr. Barry Bloom of the Harvard School of Public Health. These initiatives are bound to foster innovation in drug discovery. Seed innovation in Indian academia has been suboptimal, said Kiran Majumdar, Chairman,

The discussions and energy at this year’s summit highlighted that greater opportunities exist for USIndia BioPharma collaborations and the power of frequent high quality interactions between critical stakeholders that can catalyze and shape the nature and trajectory of the opportunity.

Martin Mackay

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BlackBerry agrees to address CBI seeks dismissal of India's security concerns case against Tytler NEW DELHI: The government has said the makers of BlackBerry -Research in Motion (RIM) - has given an assurance to it on soon addressing its security concerns and hoped that the Canadian service provider and security agencies would be on the "same page". "BlackBerry has assured the Ministry of Home Affairs that the issue of monitoring of the BlackBerry will be sorted out soon...I am sure we will soon be on the same page and our concerns will be addressed," Special Secretary RPT Secretary (Internal Security) in the MHA Utthan Kumar Bansal told reporters on the sidelines of a function here. Government has already warned the popular smartphone company that if it does not allow it to monitor emails and SMSes to address security concerns, it will have to close down operations in the country, spelling trouble for over a million BlackBerry users in India. The government has said the RIM will have to address its security-related issues by allowing monitoring facility in India. Bansal said the Department of Telecommunication was the nodal

authority which makes the policy and it was working to address the issue raised by the MHA. The MHA has asked the DoT

The MHA maintains that the RIM has been addressing security concerns of several other countries, including the United States, where it operates and, therefore, there is no justification to not comply with the same in India to tell the company in no uncertain terms that its emails and other data services must comply with formats that can be monitored by security and intelligence agencies. There are reports that Blackberry has a server in that country and the MHA asked the DoT to

check whether it is true. Government also wants a BlackBerry server in India but the company has been resisting the move. Once the server is in India, it will be easier to track the messages. The MHA maintains that the RIM has been addressing security concerns of several other countries, including the United States, where it operates and, therefore, there is no justification to not comply with the same in India. BlackBerry says the messages are encrypted. The smartphone's server is based in Canada where the encryption level is very high and extremely difficult to crack. And any message going through a Canada server is encrypted and, therefore, cannot be accessed by intelligence agencies in India. Senior officials of key security agencies at a recent meeting argued that the continuation of BlackBerry services in the present format poses danger to the country. The meeting was attended by representatives of the MHA, DoT, intelligence agencies and the National Technical Research Organization (NTRO). -PTI

NEW DELHI: The CBI has told leader. a Delhi Court that there was not An additional metropolitan sufficient evidence against former magistrate had on April 27 acUnion Minister Jagdish Tytler in cepted the closure report filed by a 1984 anti-Sikh riot case. the CBI in the case against Tytler, Pleading for dismissal of a pe- saying there was no sufficient tition filed by the family of the ri- evidence to send him for trial. ots victim against the closure of "There is nothing which sugcase against Tytler, the investigat- gests that accused Tytler was ing agency said that there is no seen on November eight, 1984, evidence to prosecute the Con- near Gurudwara Pulbangash or gress leader in the case. Additional Sessions Judge V K Khanna, af- Lakhwinder Kaur, whose ter going through CBI's written submission, husband was killed in the asked the victim's fam- riots, is seeking further ily to file its response investigation by the CBI into and posted the matter for further hearing on the case following claims August 21. about emergence of fresh Lakhwinder Kaur, whose husband was evidence, saying the trial killed in the riots, is court had wrongly dismissed seeking further investigation by the CBI into a petition protesting CBI's the case following decision to give a clean claims about emergence of fresh evi- chit to the senior dence, saying the trial Congress leader court had wrongly dismissed a petition protesting CBI's decision to give a incited a mob for killing Sikh clean chit to the senior Congress people," the magistrate had said. The CBI had given a clean chit to Tytler for the second time in a row on April 2 last year claiming lack of sufficient evidence against him in the case pertaining to the murder of three persons on November one, 1984, following the assassination of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. continue to defeat common enThe alleged role of Tytler in the emies. case relating to the killing of three The whistleblowers' website persons, including one Badal Wikileaks has made public 92,000 Singh in 1984, near Gurudwara classified reports and cables from Pulbangash in north Delhi was rethe US military, intelligence and investigated by CBI after a court civilian administration in Afghani- had in December 2007 refused to stan. accept a closure report filed by Three publications were given the agency. access to the documents and The court had allowed CBI's have published a series of reports arguments that Tytler was present on the data.-PTI at Gandhi's residence at Teen Murti Bhavan and was not at the scene of crime, saying that its contentions were justified by material, including some visual tapes and versions of some independent witnesses. Witness Jasbir (now residing in California), in an affidavit, had Affairs, External Affairs Minister claimed before the Nanavati ComS M Krishna said in Rajya Sabha. mission that he had heard Tytler The local staff would be hired on November three, 1984, rebukby the embassy as per standard ing his men for the "nominal killings" carried out in the riots. norms, he said. The court rejected Jasbir's verThe process for filling up the posts and the process for bud- sion, saying he had deposed for get provision for something which took place on operationalising the Economic November three while the case Wing has been initiated, the related to an incident of November one, 1984. -PTI Minister said. -PTI

Pak terms Wikileaks documents as 'malicious campaign' ISLAMABAD: Terming it as a "malicious campaign", Pakistan has said the disclosure of secret US documents by WikiLeaks website was to tarnish the image of its security forces and the Inter-Services Intelligence agency. The "innumerable sacrifices" of Pakistan's people and security forces in the counter-terror campaign "cannot be belittled", For-

malicious campaign launched by certain quarters to tarnish the standing and image of Pakistani state institutions, including the security forces and the ISI". The "baseless reports by some low-level and biased operatives" that were publicized by WikiLeaks are "misleading and evidently self-serving to justify the collective failings of the international

Pakistan had initially dismissed as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;misplacedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and "skewed" the leaked US intelligence reports that accused the ISI of supporting Taliban fighters.It also said the counter-terrorism cooperation between Pakistan and the US will continue eign Office spokesman Abdul Basit said. "The leaks are an unacceptable insult to the sacrifices of our people and security forces," he said. In a brief statement, Basit said the Pakistan government had taken "serious exception to the

community in Afghanistan by certain quarters", Basit said. Pakistan has "acted in conformity with its national interests and in accordance with the principles and norms of international law and the UN charter", he said. "We have noted that some of our close friends and partners,

including the US, have been dismissive of these reports and described them as irresponsible," he added. Pakistan had initially dismissed as "misplaced" and "skewed" the leaked US intelligence reports that accused the ISI of supporting Taliban fighters. It also said the ongoing counter-terrorism cooperation between Pakistan and the US will

Economic wing for Indian embassy in Beijing NEW DELHI: In a bid to improve Sino-Indian ties, External Affairs Ministry has decided to create an economic wing in the Indian embassy in Beijing. A total of eight posts have been created for the Economic Wing in the embassy in Beijing, including a post of minister/ counselor, who will be appointed by the Department of Economic

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Britain for closer security ties with India BANGALORE: British Prime Minister David Cameron has pitched for closer security relationship between India and Britain, saying the two countries must meet the challenge of ensuring global security. He said Britain, like India, was determined that groups like the Taliban, the Haqqani network or Lakshar-e-Taiba should not be allowed to launch attacks on Indian and British citizens in India or in Britain. "...Nor against our people, whether soldiers or civilians, from both our countries who are working for peace in Afghanistan," the British Premier said at a gathering at Infosys campus on the city outskirts. "Our interests are your interests - so let's work together to realize them," he said referring to the terror strikes in London on July 7, 2005 in which 52 people were killed on a tube and on a bus and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, which left scores of Indians and three British nationals dead. Asserting that Britain worked with Indian government in investigations, he said, "We remain determined that those responsible must be brought to justice...And I am here today to propose an

even closer security relationship between India and Britain." Pointing out that terrorists today were adept at crossing borders, communicating globally and concocting the most abhorrent plans to destroy our way of life, he said it was only by increasing the ties between the two countries that they could be defeated.

Our interests are your interests - so let's work together to realize them," he said referring to the terror strikes in London on July 7, 2005 in which 52 people were killed on a tube and on a bus and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks Calling for broadening counterterrorism partnership between India and Britain, he said it should look at new areas such as cyber security and terrorist financing. Noting that New Delhi would be hosting the Commonwealth Games this year and London, the Olympics in two years, he said it

makes sense for the two countries to work together to ensure both events were as safe and successful as possible through close cooperation between the Delhi Police and the London Metropolitan police. On further expanding security co-operation, he said India and Britain had a lot to offer each other in terms of sharing expertise in defense technology. "And we have a proven track record of being ready to share it ? as with the building of Jaguar and Hawk aircraft in this city in recent decades...I want to see more," he said. On the situation in India's neighboring countries, Cameron said, "When it comes to protecting our people, we cannot overlook what is happening in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Let me state clearly: your relations with those countries are a matter for you, and you alone." He also said that Britain like India wants a Pakistan that is stable, democratic and free from terror. Similarly, Cameron said, Britain wants, as India, an Afghanistan that is secure, free from interference from its neighbors and not a threat to security. -PTI

US Gen proposes joint military classes for India & Pak WASHINGTON: A top US General has proposed that senior military officers from India and Pakistan should attend joint courses in American Services institutions as a means to create trust between the military leaders of the two countries. Such a move, General James Mattis, who has been named as the new commander of the US Central Command, said, would create the much needed trust between the military leaders of the two countries, which is required in addition to the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two nations. "As we all know, they (India and Pakistan) have fought several wars over a number of issues. There's the Kashmir issue. There's any number of terrorist attacks," Gen James Mattis said in his confirmation hearing before the powerful Senate Armed Services Committee. "But I think the most important thing we can do in support of the diplomatic efforts which will fun-

damentally be how we change something like this, is to help bring the officer corps of both militaries together and create trust between them, allow them to perhaps attend our school together," Mattis said.

As we all know, they (India and Pakistan) have fought several wars over a number of issues. There's the Kashmir issue. There's any number of terrorist attacks," Gen James Mattis said in his confirmation hearing The Marine General has suggested that military leaders from the two countries, once in US should be made to study the American civil war together. The

civil war was fought between opposing armies in the then divided America. US President Barack Obama has nominated Gen Mattis as his Commander for the US Central Command, which handles Afghanistan and Pakistan. India comes under the jurisdiction of the Pacific Command. "As they do, they get to know each other there and even do some of the things we've done elsewhere in the world where we bring different sides during frozen conflicts together," he argued. "For example, at the Army School at Leavenworth, they're up at Carlisle Barracks, and let them study our Civil War together. And after a few days, they start warming up. I think there are ways for us to build trust between officer corps that will help stabilize these issues, but it's fundamentally a political problem, not a military one of course," Mattis said in response to a question from Senator Scott Brown.-PTI

British Prime Minister David Cameron and Indian Prime MInister Manmohan Singh speak as they arrive for a meeting prior to delegation level talks and agreement signing in New Delhi on July 29

Britain backs India's bid for seat in UN Security Council BANGALORE: On his maiden reputed universities, other dignivisit to India since taking over as taries and senior officials. the British Prime Minister, David Cameron said it made sense for Cameron has backed New Delhi's both Britain and India to elevate bid for a seat in the UN Security their relationship to new heights. Council. "But this is not just about Brit"India matters to the world be- ain and India. This is a relationcause it is not only a rising power, ship that can benefit the world," it is a responsible global power," he said. he said. He said there were three major Cameron said Britain welcomes India's significant support to AfAnd as I saw for myself at the ghanistan and 'vital' efforts in Nepal and G20, your Prime Minister has Bhutan. personally provided great India is also a leadintellectual leadership in ing provider of peacekeeping troops to the economic matters,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he said UN, he said. during his visit to the "And as I saw for Infosys campus myself at the G20, your Prime Minister has personally provided great intellectual global challenges "that we have a leadership in economic matters," duty to meet together? challenges he said during his visit to the that should shape our relationInfosys campus here. ship"---economic, security and "That is why the time has come climate change. for India to take the seat it de"By forging business links toserves in the UN Security Coun- gether, by tackling threats to our cil," Cameron said. security together and by taking Cameron is accompanied by a on the challenge of climate delegation comprising his cabinet change together, we can raise our colleagues, CEOs of leading busi- relationship to new heights," he ness houses, Vice-Chancellors of added. -PTI

Desi News PCS sports festival a big success RAJINDER SINGH MAGO

A grand Kuchipudi performance at Balaji Temple DR KRISHNA SARADA

CHICAGO: Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple in Aurora, a southwest Chicago suburb, recently hosted a unique Kuchipudi dance ballet, Amukthamalyada, choreographed by Natyakalavisarada K.V. Satyanarayana. The dance presented by talented artists of local dance group, with a varied age group, put up a stunning performance. The audience was taken back to Sri Krishna Deva Raya's coronation assembly 500 years ago.

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

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Details on page 21

AQ SIDDIQUI India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Air India will operate Chicago flight as non-stop to Delhi and onward to Hyderabad effective 31October this winter, according to sources close to the airline. The 'change' was in the offing in the light of non-stop flight from other airlines but still it has angered a large segment of Indian American community in Midwest as the decision affects Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Cochin and Bangalore travelers. Air India has been operating wide boy Boeing 777LR daily flight to Mumbai via Frankfurt. The current flight is conveniently connecting passengers to Ahmedabad with Frankfurt Ahmedabad flight coming from Newark. The new operation will be very convenient for Delhi and

Keerthi Ravoori

Babu Patel

Iftekhar Shareef

Chicago gets good load of Kerala travelers and the community has been totally ignore for this new schedule". Mathew and many others among travel agents feel that Air India flight was expected to fly non-stop to Mumbai. The flight could have been continued either for Ahmedabad or Hyderabad

out that majority in the Midwest Indian American community hails from Gujarat or Hyderabad. The new flight will benefit Hyderabad travelers but deprive Ahmedabad passengers of the convenience they had till now flying direct from Frankfurt to Ahmedabad. Now Ahmedabad

ing non-stop to Delhi from Chicago, and it serves mostly Delhi and Amritsar passengers." Keerthi Kumar, FIA Public Relation secretary echoed the similar views. He says though the flight will continue for Hyderabad, it will add an extra hour of flying. Keerthi feels that the decision must be challenged by the Indian American community the way it fought the issue of "Surrender Certificate" with Indian Embassy. Faizan an expert for Hyderabad passengers at Evia Travel Inc has however welcomed the decision but regrets that the new operation will limit sale. The type of aircraft will reduce seating capacity by 90 passengers. Faizan feels that Air India Chicago flight is operating daily to full capacity. It will now carry only Hyderabad and Delhi passengers. Faizan suggests Air India should operate two flights daily, non-stop to Mumbai and Delhi. The Turkish Airlines operates daily flight from Chicago and a second flight is expected from November this year, he says.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Most families with small kids and senior citizens travel to

Sikhs leave a mark in Smithsonian Festival WASHINGTON: For the first time in 44 years of Smithsonian's annual Folklife Festival history Sikh community from greater Washington Metropolitan area participated in various activities over ten day period. The Folklife festival is conducted by the Smithsonian Institution every year and this year it was from June 24th until July 5th.

August 6, 2010

New Air India schedule angers Midwest community

Details on page 18

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So-Cal Ahmadiyyas attend Islamic Convention in VA

Hyderabad. It will not be convenient for them to sit in aircraft for an extra hour of flying timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Hyderabad passengers but not for all other destinations. Arriving into Delhi at 5.15pm flight will continue for Hyderabad at 6.30pm, terminating in Hyderabad at 8.20pm. The new schedule will connect Ahmedabad passengers to Indian Airlines flight leaving at 6.55pm from Delhi but it will have no connection to Trivandrum or Cochin passengers. Reacting sharply, Mathew John of Imperial Travel says, "What about Cochin and Trivandrum passengers? Air India

and convenient transfer for other passengers to Mumbai, Cochin, Bangalore. Many feel that the decision to fly non-stop to Delhi has political connotations in view of the newly inaugurated Delhi airport. Big investments are at stake for attracting traffic to Delhi's new airport. So who bothers if the Indian community here suffers? Babu Patel, the senor most Indian community leader pointed

passengers will be required to have customs and immigration in New Delhi. Iftekhar Shareef, former FIA president also condemned the decision to fly non-stop to Delhi. "Most families with small kids and senior citizens travel to Hyderabad. It will not be convenient for them to sit in aircraft for an extra hour of flying time. There is already American airlines fly-

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Headless FIA to hold India Day celebrations RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The Federation of Indian Association (FIA) Illinois chapter has become "headless" following a court order declaring the December 13, 2010 elections for the President and the executive team null and void. On Friday July 23, the Circuit Court of Cook County Judge Peter Flynn in his ruling deemed that the FIA Elections held on 12/13/2009 were not conducted in accordance with the articles of incorporation and by-laws of the Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago. In effect, this would mean that the last December elections are rendered invalid and the office bearers who were declared elected could not conduct themselves as officials of FIA. Judge Flynn has reportedly asked both the parties to come to an amicable understanding about the eligibility. FIA member associations and a further proceeding in the matter would be taken up on September 24. In essence, there would be fresh elections based on the eligibility of member associations voting and the elections could be held only after September 24, if both the parties fail to reach an understanding on the voters' eligibility. The big question is who would be heading FIA till then. This is a million dollar question and both the contending parties - Sunil

Shah and Anil Pillai - feel askance about it. The question assumes significance in the context of forthcoming celebrations of Indian Independence Day on August 15. The FIA team headed by Sunny Gabhawala held a series of meeting prior to

colorful Parade on August 15 on Devon Avenue - Mahatma Gandhi Marg. It appears, talking to both the parties, the Court did not want to interrupt the India Day celebrations and hence, a sort of uneasy truce prevails between the warring fac-

Judge Flynn has reportedly asked both the parties to come to an amicable understanding about the eligibility. FIA member associations and a further proceeding in the matter would be taken up on September 24. In essence, there would be fresh elections based on the eligibility of member associations voting and the elections could be held only after September 24 Court Order declaring 2009 elections invalid

the Court decision and had chalked out an interesting program for celebrating Independence Day. There would be flag hoisting at Daley Plaza with entertainment program, a dinner banquet on August 14 and a

tions. The Gabhawala team claim conducting the Parade and the entire celebration without declaring themselves to be the FIA office bearers. A meeting was held to reach some sort of understanding between two

factions over the way the entire India Day celebration program should be conducted. It did not work out. Sunny Gabhawla, the erstwhile president, reportedly said he would now Chair the event committee. The heads of the different Committees, Banquet, Parade and Flag hoisting - are likely to be changed. A suggestion was made by interesting quarters to have mediation from persons like Dr. Bharat Barai who already had an extensive dialogue and met with both the parties a month ago to arrive at a compromise, but his efforts did not succeed. Dr Barai told this paper that he would be more than willing to offer his services for bringing both the groups together for the sake of unity in the community. A community activist Balwinder Singh suggested that the India Day Parade and celebrations should be handled by an independent committee of eminent Indian community leaders. This would boost the image of the community and thwart any attempt from any quarter to wash dirty linen in the public. The community as such is fed up with intra-organizational fights in FIA. This is not the first time that these wranglings have affected the functioning and image of this umbrella organization. It has turned out to be a periodic phenomenon for the past many years - say over two decades by now. The community now cries "enough is enough".

Swarnim Gujarat celebrations kicked off in NJ

Friends of Gujarat president Kirit Patel addressing the audience for the forthcoming Swarnim Gujarat celebration in New Jersey. India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: A curtain raiser to 'Swarnim Gujarat' celebrations to commemorate 50 years since the formation of Gujarat was held at a well-turned out event by Friends of Gujarat, at the Royal Albert's Palace in New Jersey July 27. The Swarnim Gujarat celebrations will be held on September 10 and 11 at the Raritan Expo Center in Edison. Edison Township Mayor Toni Ricigliano stopped by at the kick off event to lend her support. An audio visual presentation highlighted the program that

The Swarnim Gujarat Kalash

would take place at the two-day event in September. Over 25,000 visitors are expected to attend the event which will feature cultural programs, dance and song events, traditional and folk programs, informative seminars, a food festival, exhibitions, fashion shows, youth programs and much more. Several delegates both local and from India will be in attendance, including film and television celebrities, industrialists, politicians and others who have gained significant recognition in their respective fields. Friends of Gujarat was launched with the initiative of Kirit Patel, at the onset of the completion of 50 years of Gujarat. There were festivities galore that were planned

Gujarati Community leaders pose for the Swarnim Gujarat celebration kick off party held at Fords in New Jersey. (Pics: Gunjesh Desai)

in Gujarat and throughout the world to celebrate this milestone. Sudhir Vyas adds: According to

Friends of Gujarat was launched with the initiative of Kirit Patel, at the onset of the completion of 50 years of Gujarat. There were festivities galore that were planned Mr. Kirit Patel, president of the Friends of Gujarat, "the event after the Labor Day weekend will not

only highlight the achievements of Gujarat but will also try and become a bridge between the second generation Indian Americans who have settled in the US and their roots back in India. It will also show case what Gujarat has to offer to the younger generation who have only heard of Gujarat but have not visited their motherland even though their parents hail from Gujarat". Gujaratis who have excelled their field, be it sports, cinema, art, culture, business and others walks of life are expected to attend the two-day event. According to Mr. Patel some of them like cricketer Pathan brothers, Parthiv Patel, BJP leader Shatraghun Singh, Bollywood singer Alka Yagnik,

artists from the field of Gujarati cinema, television and folk artists like Bharat Bariya and Akshay Patel are all set to storm New Jersey. A large number of other associations and their members pledged support to the mega event. Some of the sponsors were also introduced and the gathering was shown a glimpse of the things that are to be showcased in New Jersey during the celebrations. Besides the entertainment program which also includes a dayro, the traditional garbas, there is scope for business seminars and others things that could benefit further growth of Gujarat. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 15

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Preity Zinta will be India Day Parade Grand Marshal India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) announced the participation of Bollywood actress Preity Zinta in annual Indian Independence Day parade this year. The popular star will serve as the Grand Marshal and lead the 30th India Day Parade in New York City on August 15, to celebrate India's 64th Independence Day. This year marks a very special milestone with the FIA's 40th anniversary and the 30th year of the annual parade. Dimpled Bollywood actress Preity won the Filmfare award for Best Actress in 2003 for her powerpacked performance in the drama "Kal Ho Naa Ho". She went on to play the female lead in two of India's top-grossing films ever: the sci-fi blockbuster "Koi... Mil Gaya" and "Veer-Zaara", a critically acclaimed

film about star-crossed lovers set in the backdrop of India's partition. In a rare first of sorts for an actress, Preity became the first woman to own an international

Preity Zinta

sports league team, when she acquired ownership rights in 2008 for the Kings XI cricket team of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The parade, the largest of its kind outside India, has been a magnet for celebrities, political and cultural heavyweights and the Indian Diaspora at large. Held every

In a unique highlight this year, the parade will play host to a lifelike wax statue of Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. The statue from Madame Tussauds, New York will be displayed in a booth year on Madison Avenue in Manhattan, the India Day Parade is synonymous with the culture, traditions and enterprising spirit that

Indian Americans are known for. The parade moves down from 38th street on Madison Avenue in Manhattan, culminating at a venue where cultural and entertainment programs are held. For the last 29 parades, FIA has seen the attendance of more than 2.5 million people and participation of over 750 colorful floats. The 30th India Day Parade, 'Salute India - Celebrating the spirit of India', intends to showcase the spirit of true democracy; the spirit of achievement of Indians all over the world; the spirit of our sports; the spirit of Bollywood; the spirit of technological advancement; as well as the spirit of leadership in defense and various other fields. In a unique highlight this year, the parade will play host to a lifelike wax statue of Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. The statue from Madame Tussauds, New York will be displayed in a

booth that has been sponsored by a south Asian media publisher. New Jersey Parade The annual Indian Independence Day parade held along Oak Tree Road running through Edison and Iselin townships in New Jersey is scheduled to be held on Aug 8 with Bollywood actress Mallika Sherawat leading it as Grand Marshal. In a slight variance from previous years, organizers of the New Jersey parade - the Indian Business Association - has decided to hold a gala entertainment program - Jashn-e-Azaadi - the evening before the parade instead of having the usual gala banquet the day after the parade. The entertainment extravaganza is scheduled to be held at the Kean University Auditorium. The parade itself is expected to feature 25 colorful floats and marching bands.

Hundreds participate in Jackson Heights Street Fair India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Chhaya Community Development Corporation celebrated the 10th-anniversary of its inception on July 25 by hosting the South Asian Arts and Activism Street Fair in Jackson Heights. The event brought together 12 non-profit organizations serving New York's South Asian community, city agencies, elected officials as well as some of the community's most innovative and celebrated artists and musicians. Spirits were in no way dampened by the rain, as attendees danced and were treated to dazzling performances from Reena Shah, the Bangladesh Institute of

Chhaya staff (pic Yamoni Bari)

ater. State Senator Jose Peralta and City Councilmember Daniel

At the Street Fair 5 (pic credit- Neha Gautam)

Performing Arts, Tibetan performers: Tenzin Kalsan and Tenzin Nyeden, youth performers from South Asian Youth Action (SAYA!) and Nepali Dance The-

Dromm also participated in the festivities. Chhaya CDC took the opportunity to recognize individuals in the community for their outstand-

ing contributions to immigrant rights and social justice in Queens. The community group Adhikaar for Human Rights and Social Justice was presented an award by Ai Jen Poo of the National Domestic Workers Alliance for their recent work around the campaign for a domestic worker's bill of rights in New York. Prerana Reddy, of the Queens Museum of Art was presented an award by Lionel Oullette, Executive Director of CHANGER, for her role in bringing innovative programming to the Museum that engaged community members to reflect on the current housing and economic crisis. Lastly, Bikram Singh, an attorney and Punjabi-music star, was honored by DJ Rekha, for his unique ability to balance a music career and still provide affordable legal services to his community. "This event is not only a celebration of our anniversary as an organization, but also of all of the

great individuals and groups working on behalf of New York City's immigrant communities," said Seema Agnani, Executive

Bikram Singh, an attorney and Punjabimusic star, was honored by DJ Rekha, for his unique ability to balance a music career and still provide affordable legal services to his community Director of Chhaya. "We hope community members will seek these organizations out when they need services and also par-

ticipate in their efforts to increase civic participation and raise public consciousness." Non-profit groups that were present and providing information about their services and programs included: Adhikaar, the Asian Women's Center, Andolan, the City Wide Task Force on Housing Court, India Home, South Asian Youth Action (SAYA!), SEVA Immigrant Advocacy Project, Shakti Peer Group, Turning Point for Women and Families, Tenants and Neighbors, and Queens Community House. Founded in 2000, Chhaya Community Development Corporation is a community-based nonprofit organization focused on improving access to housing opportunities, resources, and information for South Asian Americans throughout New York City and the metropolitan area. Chhaya also advocates for community and economic development and justice within South Asian and other immigrant communities.

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PCS sports festival a big success RAJINDER SINGH MAGO

PCS basketball team

CHICAGO: Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS) had its 16th annual two days sports festival on July 17 & 18 at Community Park in Addison, a north side suburb of Chicago. The theme was healthier life style with focus on fitness. The admission, food, and unlimited bottled water were free at this annual fun fair "Punjabi Sports Festival 2010." More than 300 athletes took part in the tournament and more than 500 spectators enjoyed the games from under three large tents set up in the park. The weather was fair all day except a few minutes of downpour when the matches had to be suspended. Fourteen Basketball teams, six Volleyball teams, four Kabaddi teams, and four Soccer teams took part in the sports competition along with children who signed up at the spot for races. The players came from Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois. The Cincinnati Kabaddi team won the $1100 cash prize sponsored by Punjabi Truck Union Chicago, and the PCS Kabaddi Championship Cup sponsored by Mickey Kahlon. The PCO Milwaukee Kabaddi Team won the runners-up cup and $500 cash prize sponsored by Balwinder Singh CHICAGO: In the heart of the city in Grant Park, on a sticky, humid summer day, a crowd of hundreds gathered tightly together, gazing intently at one person: dance artist Anjal Chande of Soham Dance Space. The occasion: a day in celebration of dance, at the Chicago SummerDance Festival in July. Dressed in a traditional, turquoiseblue Indian outfit, Anjal radiated a sense of authority and seized the crowd's attention, as she patiently enacted the subtleties of the footwork, arm gestures, and gentle shifts in weight characterizing Bhangra, a high-energy folk dance originating from Punjab, in northern India. Listening fixedly to her instructions, the audience members poised themselves as Anjal signaled for the start of the music. Shortly thereafter, the chest-pounding beats of Bhangra pulsated through the loud-

A child winner with PCS officials

and Amritpal Singh Sangha. The P.C.S. Basketball tournament was played indoors on July 17. "Chicago No Respect" basketball team won the first place $500 cash prize and the PCS Basketball Championship Cup sponsored by Jarnail Singh Lail in loving memory of Kehar Singh Lail. The basketball runners-up cup and $250 cash second prize sponsored by

The "Shawn Sinners" soccer team won the PCS Soccer Cup & $500 cash award sponsored by Rajinder Singh Bains and Mandeep Singh Bhuta. The soccer runners-up cup and $250 cash second place award was sponsored by Lakhvir Singh and Jasvir Singh Sahota and the runners-up were "Midwest United" soccer team.

sored by Midwest Physical Therapy. In track and field athletics, the 50 meter 5-7 year old children's race, first place went to Ekam S. Tiwana and second place Harleen K. Uppal. The 50 meter 8-11 year children's race, first place Jaskirandeep S. Randhawa and the second place Mrigant Dayal. Gurkamal Grewal won the 100

The ceremonial inauguration ceremonies were performed by the State Senator Dan Rutherford and past mayor of village of Palatine Rita Mullins along with several other dignitaries and PCS officials PCS Kabbadi winning team

Nimrata K. Singh went to "Punjabi Eruptions." The juniors basketball championship was won by PCS-1 team by defeating Chi-Town Ballers. The first prize was sponsored by Amarjit Atwal and the second prize was sponsored by Vimlan Tax Service.

The "Tony's Lions" won the PCS Volleyball Championship Cup by beating "Illinois Sikh Community Woodridge" team who became the runners-up. The volleyball cup and $500 cash prize was sponsored by Sarwan Singh Tiwana. The volleyball runners-up cup and $250 cash award was spon-

meter 12-15 year-old boys race. The 100 meter 12-15 years girls race first place winner was Manpreet Bhalla. In the 100 meter 16 plus years males, Lakhbir Singh took the first place and Krishanpal Singh Chhabra of Palatine was second. Mona Bhalla and Simran Bhalla came in second in the three-

PCS children race

legged race for women. The ceremonial inauguration ceremonies were performed by the State Senator Dan Rutherford and past mayor of village of Palatine Rita Mullins along with several other dignitaries and PCS officials including PCS chairperson Mohina Ahluwalia. Maintaining their 16 years old festival tradition the participants paraded the grounds with Punjabi Dhol drum beats and Bhangra music. The festival was declared open by Rita Mullins by releasing a colorful bunch of helium balloons after a prayer song and American National Anthem. All including the dignitaries celebrated the opening ceremonies with "Bhangra Aerobics." Vimlan Tax Services, Panache Fashions, Aggarwal Inc. set up their product display booths. The DJ music was provided by Sunshine DJ Rishpal Singh, photography by Gurmit Singh Dhillon and food was catered by K.K. Pamma of New India Restaurant. PCS is a not-for-profit community service organization devoted to promoting healthy life style and sports, education, good citizenship, Punjabi culture, language, and performing arts, in the metropolitan Chicago area.

Bhangra dance lesson at Grant Park GAUTHAM BODEPUDI

speakers, electrifying the atmosphere. In a graceful, rhythmic flow, Anjal effortlessly connected the nuances of movement she previously explained. The evening's excitement was seemingly infectious, and the crowd, filled with people ranging from toddlers to the elderly and from untrained to trained dancers, enthusiastically followed her lead, dancing in unison to this folk dance from India. To anyone vaguely familiar with Indian culture, it may not come as a surprise to have heard the crowd's frequent applause and cheers, to have seen the numerous, high-energy dance circles that erupted and continued for

nearly half-an-hour after the Bhangra lesson ended, or to have observed the lines of people that waited patiently to speak with Anjal, to learn more about her background and the dance. But perhaps most impressive during the evening's dance instruction was Anjal's mastery of the dance and ability to connect with the audience. Though a classical Indian dance performer and instructor, Anjal exhibited versatility with her ability to break down the high-energy, high-impact movements of the folk-based dance that often intimidate even the most experienced dancers, in a manner accessible to those un-

Anjal Chande imparting Bhangra lesson to an enthusiastic crowd at Grant Park in Chicago during Summer Fest.

familiar with the Bhangra art form and to dance itself. Anjal Chande is an internationally acclaimed, independent dance artist based in Chicago. Anjal is

the founder and director of Soham Dance Space in Chicago, where she primarily teaches Indian classical dance of Bharatanatyam to students of all levels.

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August 6, 2010

India Post 15

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Guru Purnima & anniversary celebrations at Sai Mandir SRI SURUBHOTLA

Sai Baba freshly anointed and dressed for celebrations

CHICAGO: Hundreds of devotees gathered at the 'Paschima Shirdi' - an Abode of Devotion for the auspicious Guru Purnima and Sai Mandir anniversary celebrations at Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir Chicago in Aurora, a south west side suburb of Chicago, on Saturday July 24. The celebrations culminated on Sunday July 25. This also happened to be the Chaturtha Varshikotsav - fourth anniversary of the Mandir Maha Kumbhabhishekam. Guru Purnima is the only festival prescribed by Baba for celebrations. In 1908, one day, Baba suddenly called a devo-

Devotees participating in Sai Rathosava

tee named Noolkar and told him to worship the Pillar at Dwarakamai. Noolkar first wondered and later checked the almanac and found it to be the Vyasa Purnima or Guru Purnima day. He immediately worshipped Baba accompanied by Kelkar, Shama and other devotees. The celebrations began with Alaya pradaskhina and punah pravesham amidst Veda Ghosha, Nadaswaram and Sri Sai Naam Jap. After the Dhup arati and propitiating Lord Ganesh, Kalasa and Deepa puja were performed. This was followed by Archana to Baba and Shankha Puja. The day's pro-

The celebrations began with Alaya pradaskhina and punah pravesham amidst Veda Ghosha, Nadaswaram and Sri Sai Naam Jap gram ended with Shej arati and annadaana to all the devotees. On the Guru Purnima day, after

Swarnim Gujarat celebrations kicked off in NJ Cont’d from page 12

The attendees of the two-day events will also be served traditional Gujarati food, Mr. Patel added. According to Mr. Patel, "the proceeds generated through this event will go towards betterment of the less fortunate children and their families by means of better education, and health care provisions", he said adding, "the event plans to bring in improvement and betterment in quality of life for the less fortunate" Suresh Jani former president of the Overseas Friends of BJP said "while Swarnim Gujarat was not an event for any party or individual it was being organized for the people of Gujarat and by Gujaratis residing all over the world. The fund that would be collected for the event would be used for uplifting the lives of the down trodden in Gujarat, besides helping those in need in USA. Swarnim Gujarat would highlight the achievements of Gujarat in various fields". According to Mr. Jani, "though Gujarat has achieved a lot during the past 50 years a lot more needs to be done. While the Gujarat government under the leadership of Narendra Modi is working hard to fulfill the dreams and aspirations of the people of Gujarat, the work would be on a sound footing is the Gujaratis spread all over the world also chip in with their might more so in the field of education, and health care. It was also heartening to note that while there has been a noticeable reduction in the poverty

level in Gujarat a lot more can be done". However what was a source of concern in New Jersey is the fact that the Gujarati leaders are a divided lot. There are deep divisions within the Gujarati community with some top leaders not even ready to see eye-to-eye leave aside sharing the dais. To make things worse BJP MP from Gujarat Vijay Rupani had set the ball rolling by lighting the lamp and calling upon Gujaratis to celebrate `Swarnim Gujarat' in a big way notwithstanding the fact that the community was deeply divided.

‘People in Gujarat have high expectations from the Gujarati community settled all over the world and in USA in particular’ However it was, Himanshu Vyas, a Congress leader from the state sensed the deep division within the community and called upon the various organizations to unite and jointly organize the event as a mark of solidarity within the community. "People in Gujarat have high expectations from the Gujarati community settled all over the world and in USA in particular and the 50 year celebration should be a unique event which people will remember for a long time. It must be a historic event", he said

Priests conduct Sri Sai Sahastranam Havan

the Kakada arati, Sri Sai Sahasra Naama Havan was performed. Havan is a Vedic way of invoking the divine cosmic energy for the welfare of the humanity. This was followed by Samoohika Shankha Abhishek to Baba. Shankha is one of the aspects of wealth from Lord Kubera. All the devotees participating in the Samoohika Shankha abhishek got the rare opportunity to go up on the altar and do Abhishek to Baba themselves along with their family members. This was followed by Archana, Madhyahna Aarati and Maha Prasad.

The afternoon session began with the reading of an Adhyay (chapter) from 'Sri Guru Charitra'. This details the greatness of Guru and the ways to serve Him. Baba prescribed reading of this book to many devotees. This was followed by Sri Sainath Stavan Manjari Stotra Parayan. This stotra was written by Sri Das Ganu Maharaj, an ardent devotee of Baba. He wrote it on 9-9-1918, just 36 days before Baba's Maha Samadhi on October 15th, 1918 and dedicated to Baba in Dwaraka Mayi at Shirdi. Cont’d on page 17

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KPS Chicago National Convention in Villa Park a grand success

YDS of NJ celebrates Guru Poornima

Asian Community News Services USA

India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The Kadva Patidar Samaj (KPS) of Chicago held its three days Seventh National Convention (USA/CANADA) beginning July 25 at the Odium Expo Center in Vila Park, a north side Chicago suburb. This year's convention theme was "Bringing the Community Together." This simple but well thought out theme was evident through out the three days meet with the presence of members and guests from all over the continent. Despite unfavorable weather conditions, over 1700 attended the event and the same level of attendance was noticeable next two days too. Inspirational speeches from esteemed individuals of the community, an exciting you're your match matrimonial program for singles, exhilarating cultural dances, a breathtaking fashion show, enlightening panels, audience Garba, a remarkable magic show, deliciously prepared lunches as well as dinners, were some of the features of the convention. The program started with the recitation of national anthems of America and India. Next, Mitabhai and Jayantbhai Patel, the grand sponsors of the event, lit beautifully decorated lamps. There were also welcome speeches from KPS Chicago President Jatin Patel and Convener and Trustee Dr. V.K. Patel. Chhottalal Patel, the Chief Guest, spoke about issues the community faces, including the role of women in society, the upbringing of second generation, the responsibility of young parents, the overall need to respect elders, and appreciation to the men and women in uniform, and our fallen heroes. The Masters of Ceremonies, Tina Patel of Georgia and Neha Patel of California, captivated audiences with their friendliness and contagious enthusiasm throughout the convention. C.K Patel of the Asian American Hotel Association spoke of the "shakti" or the courage of the community of the community and emphasized that world peace starts at home amongst various other vital messages that he addressed to the community. Jayshree K. Patel, Member of Parliament in India, also graced the event with her presence. She especially came from India for the prestigious event and spoke to the eager audience about the journey of Gujarat State and its golden jubilee that it celebrated this year. Organizers honored local Indian hero, Atmarabhai V. Patel, 85, who

SOMERSET, NJ: Like all years in the past, Yogi Divine Society (YDS) of NJ celebrated "Guru Poornima" with great enthusiasm at the Ukrainian Hall in Somerset, NJ. The presence of Hariprasad Swamiji added enormous reverence, zeal and joy to the celebration. The start of the celebrations was marked by enlivening and devout hymns and chants sung by P. Ajitbhai and his group from Pennsylvania. Hariprasad Swamiji made a grand entry at the event in

Somabhai Patel, Nathubhai Patel, Babhaidas Patel, Jayshreeben Patel (MPMehsana), NL Patel (MLA- Unjha) Hiraben Patel, Chhotalal Patel (Chief Guest) Dr. V K Patel (Convener) Narendra Patel (Chairman on Event co-ordination) (Pic courtesy Asian Community News Services USA)

is originally from Mehsana, Gujarat but has been in Chicago since 1999. He worked alongside Mahatma Gandhi for Indian independence in the 1940s. He held the same passion for a separate India and pursued the dream through non-violent means. He spoke briefly about how far Indians have come since their Independence in 1947 and how proud the community should be on their many achievements at home and abroad. He received a standing

Chhottalal Patel, the Chief Guest, spoke about issues the community faces, including the role of women in society, the upbringing of second generation, the responsibility of young parents ovation from the audience. One of the many highlights of the convention included an eye catching fashion show. Chorographers Trupti Kuvadia and her daughter Barkha Kuvadia were able to transform the non professional participants, children and KPS members into breathtaking models with natural beauty, elegant poise and confidence. The show had three exuberant segments that showcased different Indian clothing provided by the classy Sajnee Boutique in Schaumburg. The first part displayed fun numbers such as churidars for girls and shalwar kurtas for boys. The second portion displayed teen girls in chic sarees. The last part had college students, young men and women, in wedding attire. Every detail of the show was thought out and simply fantastic

including Bollywood music numbers used, accessories, hairstyles, props, and more. Another highlight of the two-day convention was the thought provoking "Bridging the Gap" panel discussion led by and organized by Tina Patel. Participants ranged from the ages of 12-65 and discussed issues pertaining to the youth. Some of the question brought up by the youth participants included: why is body image so pertinent to us, why is it not possible for adults to fathom that their children can be modern but have traditional values, why are youth pushed towards medicine, pharmacy, law, and engineering and other important issues as well. Adult panel members shed light on the questions but the floor was also opened to the audience members. The discussion was very enlightening and beneficial to all participants and guests. It demonstrated the significance of open communication between youth and adults despite the generational and cultural differences. There were countless individuals involved in bringing this event together from the extensive volunteer teams to various committee members and donors. Narendra Patel of the Event Coordinator Committee thanked various people individually for all their hard work and contribution for the success of the event. The KPS holds many events throughout the year including picnics, political events, a senior citizen cruise, Navratri celebrations, participating in the India Day Parade, and more. They aim to provide a platform for cultural, educational and religious programs as well as cultivate the spirit of self-respect and ethical values among the community by maintaining high standards of morals in daily life. From its initiation in 1987, KPS Chicago has been an active leader in the community by assisting families to better their quality of life.

August 6, 2010

Shree Shaileshbhai's bright white Lincoln Stretch Limousine where the devotees affectionately welcomed "Shree Thakorjee" and P.P. Swamiji. Youths from NJ performed a special dance act to welcome P. P. Swamiji. P. Guruprasad Swami expressed his views on the importance of a "Guru" according to Hindu culture. Shree Haripriya Swami and Shree Sanatan Swami offered garland to P.P. Swamiji on behalf of the entire 'Haridhaam Parivaar'. Dr. Sudhir Parikh and Congressman also offered garland and bouquets to P.P. Swamiji and felt blessed. P. Gunjanbhai shared experiences and incidents from his life where P.P. Swamiji played a very important role, that of a Guru, and guided him towards the right path each and every time. He also gave an insight into the life of youths who live a pious, devout and devoted life as a result of P.P. Swamiji's never ending effort to take youth towards divinity. Congressman also shared his experiences with YDS over the years, and expressed his desire to remain present at the International Youth Conference scheduled for January 2013 in India. P. Bhakti

Swami also highlighted and underlined P.P. Swamiji's untiring and persistent altruism to give the society great wealth in the form of disciplined and spiritually charged squad of youths. P.P. Swamiji delivered divine discourse for almost an hour. He explained why we need a "Guru" in our life, and deemed it extremely important. He explained the importance of family values, and the ways to attain all pervasive happiness and the need to become human in its true sense. He appealed all parents to imbibe religiousness and spirituality in their life to raise a family that strives and thrives upon the divine bond of spiritual affinity, in P.P. Swamiji's own words, "Atmiyata". Living life in accord with the 'Guru's' will and wish is 'Gurubhakti' in its real

Youths from NJ performed a special dance act to welcome P. P. Swamiji. P. Guruprasad Swami expressed his views on the importance of a "Guru" according to Hindu culture sense. Keeping this wisdom in their hearts and minds, everyone departed. Everyone resolved to at-

tend the Atmiya Youth Summit scheduled from August 13th through August 15th in the beautiful Catskills Mountains of upstate New York. Every year, YDS of NJ organizes the Atmiya Youth Summit to sow seeds of morals, universal brotherhood and spiritually affinity into the lives of youths who attend this Summit.

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August 6, 2010

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Raunaq Mela at Hari Om Mandir JODH SINGH RAWAT

Health check up during Raunaq Mela

CHICAGO: This year the Raunaq Mela at Hari Om Mandir was organized on Sunday July 11 in the temple premises by the Temple committee. The Mela was attended by more than 1000 devotees and other visitors from the Hindu community with great joy and enthusiasm creating an atmosphere of happiness. The Mela is organized from past many years and every year the number of participations is increasing. There were food stalls put around, serving mouth watering Chhole Bhature, Dosa, Wada, Bhel Puri, Pani Puri, Tikki, Dahi Bhalla, Jalebi, Gulab-Jamun, Ice cream, Sindhi Pakora, Samosas, Chat and what not which everybody enjoyed. There were garment stalls and

artificial jewelries which attracted women folk and kept them busy till the end. To make the event more exciting an "Antakshari" session took place between two teams one of men and the other of women and that was the most enjoyable part. The stalls contributed there sales to the Mandir development funds which was raised though selling coupons in advance. Several attendees also took benefit of the free health fair, medical check up hosted by Dr Om Dhingra and his team. On congratulating President Indrajit Sarkar for such a great event; he said it's only possible with the tremendous support of the executive board members, donors/ sponsors and the volunteers of all ages who actively took part in making the event successful.

Mouth watering dishes at Raunaq Mela at Hari Om Mandir

Guru Purnima & anniversary celebrations at Sai Mandir Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 15

Baba blessed him and assured that whoever recites or listens to this stotra with love and devotion is sure to attain peace and prosperity. A portion of this Stotra called the 'Prarthanashtakam' is recited every Thursday at the mandir. The evening session started with Dhup Arati followed by Rathotsav. Ratha is a mobile temple. According to Upanishad, "Rathe Twaam Gamana Drishtva Punarjanma na Vidyate" meaning whoever sees Ratha in motion, has no rebirth. Lord Sainath was taken in a grand and colorful procession in a majestic 15 feet ratha (chariot). Devotees accompanied the ratha singing bhajans and

dancing. The day's session ended with Shej arati and Annadaana. All the major festivals are celebrated at the mandir, just as in Shirdi. Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir Chicago is located at 1101 Foran Lane, Aurora. The mandir is open from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on all week days and throughout the day on Thursdays, weekends and special occasions. All the four Aaratis - Kakad Aarati, Madhyahna Aarati, Dhup Aarati and Shej Aarati - are performed just as in Shirdi. Special worship services including Abhishek, Sri Sai Astotra, Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama, and Sri Sai Satchartira Parayan are conducted on Thursdays.

Sri Jagannath Society celebrates Ratha Yatra Asian Community News Services USA

CHICAGO: Sri Jagannath Society of Greater Chicago celebrated the festival Ratha Yatra and Bahuda Yatra (Return journey) of Lord Jagannath, the presiding deities of Srikhetra, Puri on Saturday, July 17 at Bishnu Shiva Shakti Mandir inside Bharat Sevashram Sangha, in Aurora, a south west Chicago suburb, with great enthusiasm and fanfare. Hundreds of devotees from various communities participated in the festival on a hot sunny day to get a view of Lord Jagannath on the chariot and pull the chariot. A fortnight earlier, Debasnana festival was celebrated. After the

At the end of the journey, the deities were taken out of the chariot to a different location where They remained and were worshipped for nine days bath the deities fell sick and were confined to Anabasar (a closed area) prohibiting regular worship and darshan to devotees. The day before Ratha Yatra, devotees got the Nava Yauban darshan of lords. On the Ratha Yatra day the priest Gurukul performed the Ratha Yatra rituals and Havan. The well decorated and colorful Ratha (Chariot) was sanctified before placing the deities. In a beautiful procession known as "Pahandi Vije", devotees carried the lords from temple to the chariot. The sound of a number of tradi-

Devotees pulling the Chariot -Rath (Pic Asian Community News Services USA)

tional musical instruments called "Ghanta", Mrudunga, and Conch played by devotees filled the atmosphere and created a devotional vibration in the mind of all present. The devotees eagerly waiting for a touch of lords carried Lord Sudarshan, the celestial power, to the chariot first and placed by the seat for Devi Subhadra, then brought the elder brother Lord Balabhadra, followed by sister Devi Subhadra and younger brother Lord Jagannath at the end. Indian Consulate Vice Consul, Ramakrishna Chattopadhyay, performed the rituals of "Chhera Panhara". This ritual is traditionally performed by the king of Orissa every year during the festival of Ratha Yatra in Srikhetra, Puri. After the deities of the lords are installed on the chariots the king

sweeps the chariots with a golden broom while sprinkling holy water. Then he worships lord by performing an arati after which the holy journey starts. This ritual is performed to show the devotion of the head of the state to the lord. The ecstatic devotees bowed to the lords on the chariot and pulled the ropes to take the chariot on the road around the temple. A glimpse of Lord Jagannath on the chariot is considered to be very auspicious. At the end of the journey, the deities were taken out of the chariot to a different location where They remained and were worshipped for nine days. The return journey known as "Bahuda Yatra" was performed on July 25 in which the deities were carried back to Ratna Singhasan in the main temple with all rituals.

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August 6, 2010

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A grand Kuchipudi performance Inspiring Telugu discourses by Shanmukha Sarma at Balaji Temple USHA PARITI

DR KRISHNA SARADA

The team of artists that presented dance performance at Balaji Temple

Rengala as Goda Devi stole the hearts of the audience. Matching her talent was Mrs. Aparna Prashanth as Visnu Chitta, who elegantly presented a mixture of immeasurable love towards his daughter and an immense devotion towards Lord Vishnu. Ms. Sanjana Ravi, portrayed the divine Ranganatha Swami. She charmed the audience with her great danc-

also many young performers such as Sakhis and Rajanarthakis as well as the kids who played Lord Krishna and the Gopikas who made Chicago art lovers very proud. The performance of artists Dr. Sreeleka as Lord Brahma and Neelima Chelliboina as Saraswathi was delightful. Dancing rhythms of lord Shiva and Parvathi por-

Satyanarayana himself mesmerized the audience as Sri Krishna Deva Raya with his grand, royal performance and majestic movement. This renowned Kuchipudi artist is not only a dancer, but also a famous choreographer, lyricist, and composer Master K.V.Satyanarayana from India

taken back to Sri Krishna Deva Raya's coronation assembly 500 years ago. His court, Bhuvanavijayam, decorated with its eight famous poets called Astha diggajalu, came alive to the viewers. The well talented, young dancers emancipated the minds of the audience with their skillful Kuchipudi rhythms and their immense expressions. In only six days, the renowned KV Satyanarayana was able to guide these young, enthusiastic dancers to one of the most impressive performances in Chicago. Satyanarayana himself mesmerized the audience as Sri Krishna Deva Raya with his grand, royal performance and majestic movement. This renowned Kuchipudi artist is not only a dancer, but also a famous choreographer, lyricist, and composer. He was presented the Nandi Award by the AP Government. It is to Chicago art lovers' good fortune that they were able to view a multi-talented guru's performance in the local temple. With delicate expressions of her love and adorations towards Sri Ranganatha Swami, Dr. Sangeetha

ing skill and her radiating expressions of love and kindness. The enthusiasm Hanish showed to come all the way from New Jersey to perform this ballet as Lord Siva depicts his dedication towards the great art of Kuchipudi Natyam. There were

trayed by Jalaja Hemanth echoed in the hearts of viewers. This grand event was cosponsored by Telugu Association of Greater Chicago (TAGC), Tristate Telugu Association (TTA) and Namaste Chicago Radio. The Balaji Temple cultural committee and several volunteers contributed to the success of the event.

Godha Devi and Sri Ranganathudu (Sangita Rangala and Sanjana Ravi)

CHICAGO: Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarma, an internationally renowned Vedic scholar, recently gave discourses at the Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago and the SVS Temple in Aurora. The Chicago Telugu community flocked in record numbers to listen to Sri Sarma Garu's pravachanams with high expectations that follow a man of such great eminence. And the Guru did not disappoint. With spell-binding oration, he uplifted and inspired everyone with his profound knowledge of Hindu scriptures. His ability to explain complex philosophical issues in a language

their Hindu culture and religion but taught them numerous lessons about individual behavior, parenting, relationships and even management. On Guru Poornima day, Sri Sarma Garu gave a special discourse at the SVS temple on the story of Vishnu. Bringing his amazing interpretive expertise to the fore, he explained the Dhyana Sloka of Sri Maha Vishnu "Santakaram Bhujaga sayanamâ&#x20AC;Ś" in detail by relating it to the time before creation (srushti) to present time. In this discourse, he especially highlighted several littleknown, yet highly important, Vishnu incarnations like

Brahmasri Samavedam Shanmukha Sarmagiving religious discourse

understandable to children and adults alike, his cheerful demeanor, his down-to-earth simplicity and humility and his incredible sense of humor all combined to weave a magic spell. For one week Chicagoans experienced what The Hindu, a reputed Indian newspaper, described as a cultural and spiritual renaissance and understood why the newspaper compared Sri Sarma Garu's mission to Adi Sankara and Swami Vivekananda. While the organizers expected attendances of 30 to 40 people for weekday discourses, the actual attendance was 150 to 160 on average. On the weekend, the attendance swelled to 300 people. And people listened to his two-hour discourses with rapt attention. In eight different discourses at the Hindu Temple, Sri Sarma Garu narrated Valmiki Ramayana in his inimitable style - by bringing in a variety of viewpoints, from the renowned "Ramayana Kalpavruksham" by Sri Viswanatha Satyanarana to the unforgettable lyrics of Tyagaraja. The slokas were explained both in the rich traditions of Katha (Katha Paramina Artham) and Vedanta (Vedanta Artham). Through his exposition of Dharma Sookshma in Ramavatara, Sri Sarma Garu not only made all listeners proud of

Hayagreeva Avataram, Kapilaacharya (Kapila Maharshi) Avataram, Nara Narayana Avataram and Veda Vyasa Avataram. Sri Shanmukha Sarma has been giving discourses on Vedic values and Hindu culture for many years.

While the organizers expected attendances of 30 to 40 people for weekday discourses, the actual attendance was 150 to 160 on average. On the weekend, the attendance swelled to 300 people His morning TV discourses draw thousands of viewers across Andhra Pradesh. He also draws huge gatherings of discerning listeners whenever he travels across the state. He is the author of thousands of poems, several books and publishes a monthly magazine called Rushipeetham. Just 43 years old, he has already won numerous prestigious titles and awards including "Samanvaya Saraswathi" and "Vyakhyana Vachaspathi".

August 6, 2010

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Suspension of Muslim student union condemned India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Asian Law Caucus has condemned the University of California at Irvine (UCI) for its intended move to suspend the University's Muslim Student Union. The Asian Law Caucus, along with 14 other civil rights organizations and professional bar associations from across the nation, including the Center for Constitutional Rights and the Jewish Voice for Peace, sent a letter to Chancellor Michael Drake at UCI, condemning the recommended suspension of the university's Muslim Student Union (MSU). UCI is considering suspending the MSU for allegedly coordinating the actions of 10 non-violent student protestors who interrupted the Israeli Ambassadors public speech in February. The fifteen civil rights organizations and professional bar associations maintain that suspending the MSU would deprive hundreds of current and future Muslim students of their First Amendment right to freedom of association. In their letter to the UCI administration, they also maintain that the recommended ban is unparalleled in its severity, and constitutes selective enforcement. "The punishments being considered by UCI are unparalleled in their severity," said Asian Law Caucus attorney Veena Dubal. "Student protestors have a long history of disrupting speeches, but we have not seen this type of severe sanction against other groups. The disparate treatment sends the message that UCI selectively censures particular political views, and this is unacceptable." In their letter, the civil rights organizations and associations also claim that the proposed ban sets a dangerous precedent that affects all groups whose views are

opposed by campus officials and influential outside groups. Summer Hararah, national security and civil rights program coordinator at the Asian Law Caucus, stated, "Selectively targeting the MSU sends the message that only certain types of speech will be tolerated at the UCI. This potential silencing of dissent is extremely troubling at a public university." The letter requests that the administration abandon any punitive measures against the Muslim Student Union and states that banning the group will memorialize UCI as a campus that violates its students' constitutional rights.

‘Selectively targeting the MSU sends the message that only certain types of speech will be tolerated at the UCI. This potential silencing of dissent is extremely troubling at a public university’ Signatories to the letter include the following organizations: Asian Law Caucus, Afghan-American Bar Association, American Muslims for Palestine, Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, Arab Resource & Organizing Center, Center for Constitutional Rights, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles, Council on American-Islamic Relations - California, Jewish Voice for Peace, Muslim Bar Association of Southern California, Muslim Legal Fund of America, National Lawyers Guild, Sikh Coalition, South Asian Americans Leading Together, South Asian Bar Association - Northern California.

Dada Vaswani celebrations in New Jersey

he Sadhu Vaswani Center is holding a grand 4-day event July 30 to August 2, to celebrate Dada J.P. Vaswani's birthday in New Jersey. This is the first time ever that Dada, Spiritual Head of Sadhu Vaswani Mission, will be in New Jersey on his birthday. The celebrations take on the fervor of prayers and thanksgiving as Dada is on his road to a miraculous recovery after his fall

in May 2010 in Panama. After undergoing 3 major surgeries at Chicago, Dada has now come out of serious treatment of 48 days, the longest one in his life time. He is continuing his physiotherapy sessions in New Jersey currently. Devotees from all over the world are expected to converge in large numbers. The festivities will begin July 30 in Secaucus, New Jersey at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

I-Day in Atlantic City to boost influx of visitors India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: The Indo US Council announced their set of initiatives for boosting the influx of visitors to Atlantic City. "This action of hosting numerous events in the area will attract the large Indian American community living in the north east US to Atlantic City," says Dr. Sanjay Gupta, president of the council, "with India's Independence Day Celebrations being the first one on the agenda." "We have seen over the years, the Indian-American community has always enjoyed and supported its festivals and celebrations by its presence in huge numbers. As it is evident in regions like New York City, California, Chicago, Florida, Atlanta and Detroit, to name a few," he said. Indo US Council identifies this opportunity as one that will give Atlantic City the boost that regions like these have experienced. These initiatives have the same potential of increasing business for the local community as the Miss America Pageant and the Air Show have shown in the past, says the organization. To organize these events, the council has the help and support from several different social and professional organizations, including physicians, hotel owners, business owners and other professionals. These events are expected to attract Indian-Americans from the whole Northeastern corridor, where a whopping 35% of its population lives. The Independence Day Celebrations alone is expected to bring in excess of over 50,000 visitors to Atlantic City. On August 13 2010 the India's Independence Day Celebrations will commence with a night of music

and dance featuring a live concert by "the international pop sensation and multi-platinum selling Cash Money/Universal Republic recording artist Jay Sean" at the Trump Taj Mahal Arena followed by a colorful parade next day on August 14. The India Day Parade will march on Atlantic City's famous boardwalk and it promises to flaunt magnificent floats displaying the diverse Indian culture with its glory and grandeur. The parade will end in a big display of Indian handicraft, beautiful clothing and jewelry. Invitees as chief guests include Bollywood stars, prominent professionals and businessmen with local and central government officials.

The Indo US Council is also planning events for Diwali and Holi for October 2010 and March 2011 respectively. "The success of Independence Day Celebrations will further increase the number of visitors at the other two events’ One of the main attractions added to bring in more visitors to the region is the 'Palace on Wheels'. The Palace on Wheels is a world-famous one-of-a-kind train in India that is fit for kings and queens. The interior décor is palatial giving one an experience of an enchanting royal journey. ACES trains of Atlantic City will have the flavor of Palace on Wheels for the celebrations. This special train will run between New York City and Atlantic City featuring a touch of Indian décor with tasty Indian

food and Indian models dressed traditionally to give an experience of the original train. A unique experience, indeed, will be made possible with the help of Borgata, Harrah's and Caesars casinos. Additionally, a Teen Patti tournament within that weekend is also in the works. The Indo US Council is also planning events for Diwali and Holi for October 2010 and March 2011 respectively. "The success of Independence Day Celebrations will further increase the number of visitors at the other two events. We are very pleased with the support of the Mayor's office and Atlantic City Convention and Tourism department along with various casinos and several individuals," says Dr. Gupta. These three events will aim to become the biggest celebrations of Indian festivals in the US, and may very well attract visitors not only from the Northeast, but also from rest of the country, and eventually, from overseas, the organization hopes. The Council's media outreach will target over 100 million people, significantly increasing the visibility of this city. Atlantic City needs to offer its visitors something unique, something different than what the other destinations offer. The plan proposed by the Indo US Council offers Atlantic City that "something different", which just happens to be a spicy concoction, mixed with Indian heritage, culture and diversity that reminds its visitors of the traditions of the Indian homeland. Perhaps this initiative, led by Dr. Sanjay Gupta, will make Atlantic City one of the most desirable destination hotspots for the Indian-American Community, from the US and abroad.

St Louis Indian Association to celebrates I-Day ASHWIN PATEL

ST. LOUIS: India Association of St. Louis has organized its annual India Day celebrations featuring Mela 2010, grand cultural program and competition on Sunday August 15 at Mahatma Gandhi Cultural Center in St Louis starting 11 am. According to IAS sources, the Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster will be the chief guest and the keynote speaker while State Senator Ms Jane Cunningham will be the guest of honor. The flag hoisting followed by national anthems of both the countries would

be at 11-30 which will be followed by six hours of Mela that has all the grand attractions for persons of all ages - cultural programs, competition and awards to winners. The competition relates to essay writing, math and drawing, flower arrangement and on the spot patriotic cultural theme, photography for different age groups and adults. The entertainment program will have colorful dances and songs with patriotic themes. India Association of St. Louis, MO, is a non-profit organization representing the Indian-American

community in the Greater St. Louse, MO area. Since its inception India Association of St. Louis has been carrying out an important role in celebrating India's cultural heritage by bringing the members of the Indian community together on Indian festivals and events of national significance. IASTL has been able to accomplish this mission because of the dedication and hard work of its volunteer officers and continued enthusiastic support from the Indian and non-Indian community in the Greater St. Louis area.

Community Across America

India Post

August 6, 2010

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Sikhs leave a mark in Smithsonian Festival

Arlene Reiniger of Smithsonian dancing with Satpal Singh Kang and Suchinder Kaur Kang; Sehej Singh showing Bhangra acrobatics

Electrifying Gidha performance on the opening evening by Washington Sikh ladies.

India Post News Service

WASHINGTON: For the first time in 44 years of Smithsonian's annual Folklife Festival history Sikh community from greater Washington Metropolitan area participated in various activities over ten day period. The Folklife festival is conducted by the Smithsonian Institution every year and this year it was from June 24th until July 5th. Guru Gobind Singh Foundation, an active Sikh Gurdwara organization based in Rockville, Maryland, led the Sikh participa-

Sikh Kirtani Jatha performing at the Smithsonian Festival

ington from all over America and people from various backgrounds became a one amalgamated dancing crowd and there was not a soul that did not move

to the music. July 1st was the big day, with the Sikh team getting the entire day to perform various activities. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 23

DC Bhangra Crew, DCM Punjabi Arts Academy and PunjabiNation Bhangra performing on the opening evening

tion in the festival. The Sikhs had a large role to play in displaying their heritage, identity, tradition,

Preet Amrit Kaur (top left), Anita Vinaik (top right) and Supreet Kaur (bottom left) putting henna on the hands of enthusiastic crowd

and culture as part of the presentations on Asian Pacific Americans, one of three major themes chosen for this year in addition to Mexico and Smithsonian Workforce. On June 24th the opening night concert featured the high energy song and dance in the form of Bhangra and Giddha. Over 60 participants, including youth and adults, girls and boys, men and women performed to the sound of Dhol (big drums) and famous Bollywood/traditional Punjabi music. The teams representing the Sikh community were from DCM Punjabi Arts Academy, DC Bhangra Crew, Rhythm of Punjab, and PunjabiNation Bhangra. An enthusiastic crowd joined on the dance floor to beat of Punjabi music. Tourists visiting Wash-

Boston area Spelling Bee winners The 2010 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee concluded its 9-city tour with its final stop in the Boston area this past weekend. (From L to R) First Runner Up Rahul Malayappan of Danbury, CT; Second Runner Up Surabhi Iyer of Franklin, MA and Regional Champ Stuti Mishra of West Melbourne, FL posing with Rahul Walia, Founder of the South Asian Spelling Bee

Gagan Kaur, Ravi Singh, Bhai Gurdarshan Singh and Bhai Sucha Singh

Gaining cosmic energy on a river ride India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Brahmarishi Shree Kumar Swami (Guruji), a proponent of healing through cosmic sound, toured across the US and Canada through July, the most fascinating of his spiritual events having been on a boat cruising over the Hudson River in New York City. Ashwani Kumar, President of Bhagwan Shree Lakshmi Narayan Dham of Edison, New Jersey said the program was aimed at soothing the mind and body with the cool breeze blowing over the river while receiving the blessings of one of the popular spiritual gurus of India. Nearly 400 people, many of who were actual followers of the guru went aboard the Circle Line boat to benefit from the guru's offering of the magical 'sounds' (words) that were guaranteed to deliver good health, wealth and general well being. The boat ride was followed by

a two-day discourse called 'Cosmic Grace Convention' held at the Holiday Inn, Raritan Center in Edison. Before arriving in New YorkNew Jersey, the Guruji addressed similar conventions in Los Angeles, Chicago, Ohio, Chesapeake (Virginia). The Guruji held a series of convention in Canada before arriving in the US and was scheduled to tour Europe after his US tour. According to Guruji, cosmic sound secrets bring one's energies into harmony with cosmic energy. The power of cosmic sound is capable of dissolving negative energies and one can achieve harmony and peace by practicing cosmic sound. Guruji is the founder of Bhagwan Shree Lakshmi Narayan Dham that imparts Cosmic Grace through cosmic sound. Last year's Cosmic Grace Convention in New Jersey was attended by nearly 3000 people.

Community/California

August 6, 2010

India Post 21

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So-Cal Ahmadiyyas attend Islamic Convention in VA

India Post News Service

CHANTILLY, VA: Scores of Southern California-area members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community journeyed 3,000 miles to attend their 62nd annual U.S. convention, which was held this year at the Dulles Expo Center in Chantilly, Virginia. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, whose members in the United States number close to 15,000, was first established in America in 1921. This year’s annual gathering, which took place July 16-18, attracted over 6,000 Ahmadi Muslims from the Community’s 70 chapters across the U.S., but there were also attendees from Canada, England, Germany, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh. Special invited guests included government, civic and religious leaders, as well as some foreign dignitaries. Speeches were delivered on such diverse topics as: “Trials – Sources of Divine Favors and Wrath,” “Islam: Beyond Culture and Ethnicity,” “Religious Freedom in America,” “A Muslim’s Loyalty to One’s Country,” “Understanding Our True Purpose in Life,” and “Martyrdom in Lahore: Our Reaction and Response.” This last speech, delivered by one of the Ahmadiyya

Muslim Community’s National Vice-Presidents, Naseem Mahdi, dealt with the Community’s reaction and response to coordinated terrorist attacks with machine guns, grenades and suicide vests on two Ahmadi Mosques in Lahore, Pakistan during the sermon on Friday, May 28 which

Despite these cruelties and denials of basic freedoms and human rights, Ahmadi Muslims remain steadfast and law-abiding and peaceful under all circumstances killed 86 people and wounded over a hundred others. In one of the final speeches on Sunday, Imam Shamshad of the Baitul Hameed Mosque in Chino compared the persecution suffered by the followers of the Holy Prophet Muhammad 1400 ears ago with the persecution suffered by the followers of the

Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. Islamic clerics regularly call for their congregations to rise up against Ahmadis, proclaiming it is permissible in Islam to persecute Ahmadis, loot their belongs, destroy their homes and businesses, rape their women and even murder Ahmadis without penalty because they are considered “infidels” and apostates from Islam. Signs and banners throughout Pakistan regularly declare Ahmadis “deserving of death” and “enemies of Islam” alongside Jews and Christians. The same anti-blasphemy laws used to persecute Ahmadi Muslims are also used against other religious minorities. Despite these cruelties and denials of basic freedoms and human rights, Ahmadi Muslims remain steadfast and law-abiding and peaceful under all circumstances. Many have immigrated since the 1970s to other countries due to the persecution they endure in Pakistan and some other Muslim countries, but in no case has any Ahmadi

Muslim ever been disloyal to the country they live in. Dr. Ahsanullah Zafar, the President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in America, delivered the closing remarks at the convention Sunday afternoon, praising the work of the Community and urged them to remain loyal, dedicated and hard-working citizens of the United States, and to be the highest example of righteousness so they present the true face of peaceful Islam to the world and exemplify our motto: “Love for All – Hatred for None.”

KP Singh receives lifetime achievement award

Asian American Alliance leaders with Senator Richard Lugar India Post News Service

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana: KP Kanwal Prakash Singh, a longtime resident of Indiana, received the 2010 Sarah Lewis Lifetime Achievement Award at the 27th annual Diversity Volunteer Recognition Breakfast. The event is organized by the United Way of Central Indiana as a

Vince Wong (AAA President), Ellen Annala (CEO United Way of Central Indiana), Angela Cain (Mistress of Ceremonies).

part of the Black Expo Summer Celebration activities. This year there were over six hundred people in attendance and fifteen volunteers, four of them Asians, in various categories were honored. It was a matter of great pride and honor for all of us to see one of our own recognized and celebrated at this prestigious event. KP was deeply moved by this great honor and recognition of his

KP was born in India and came to the U.S. in 1965. He has been a tireless advocate and supporter of cultural diversity and the importance of arts to life and human spirit

KP Singh delivering his acceptance remarks.

many involvements in central Indiana over the past four decades. KP was born in India and came to the U.S. in 1965. He has been a tireless advocate and supporter of cultural diversity and the importance of arts to life and human spirit. Singh is founding member of the International Center of Indianapolis and The Asian American Alliance, where he has remained active as a Board

Member and volunteer since 1999. He serves on the Advisory Board of Brooke's Place for Grieving Young Persons, Butler University Center for Faith and Vocation, and Race and Cultural Relations Leadership Network. Recognized as a pillar and pioneer in Indianapolis, Singh is a respected spokesperson on issues of racial, religious, and ethnic harmony and understanding.

Community Across America

India Post

August 6, 2010

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Yuba City raises $5K for Punjab flood victims

India Post News Service

YUBA CITY: Mandeep Singh Bajwa's {Dr Bajwa's son} high school graduation party turned into a fund raiser for the victims of recent flood havoc in the Punjab region of India. Many guests, mostly members of Punjabi American Heritage Society felt the urge to help people back home who have been devastated by the floods. There was lot discussion to whom to send the funds since

most of the organizations based in India have no accountability to American donors based on previous experience of many individuals. Many PAHS members have in past donated to Katrina hurricane, Gujarat quake, Tsunami and Kashmir quake victims. It was decided to donate funds to United Sikhs Organization which has earned the respect by its selfless service to victims of Haiti earthquake and many other natural calamities.

Charity event for leukemia research India Post News Service

NORCO, CA: On June 5, Vishnu Patel, along with the Friends of Gujarat, hosted a charity event themed "Ek Shaam Rafi Ke Naam," presented by 999 Enterprises in the memory of his dearly loved late wife, Kusum Patel, and for the benefit of leukemia cancer research for City of Hope, Duarte, CA. A total of $16,500.00 was raised at this event and Vishnu Patel matched this total to give a grand total of $33,000.00 which was presented to City of Hope on their visit to the hospital. Late Mrs. Kusum Patel was a beloved daughter, friend, wife, sister, aunt and mother who is still remembered and cherished to this day, as was shown through this enticing night. Mrs. Patel was diagnosed with leukemia in March 2008. She was immediately started on chemotherapy, which she was given once a month until September 2008. Throughout the chemotherapy she remained positive and hopeful while being the rock of the family. Regardless of the hardship and life threatening situation she was in, one could never tell the pain and agony she was going

Does the Right view Muslims as equal citizens? IBRAHIM HOOPER

iven the political right's hate-filled and hysterical response to all things Muslim, one has to ask whether American Muslims face a future in which they will no longer be treated as equal citizens. The best example of the right's campaign to deprive American Muslims of the civil liberties enjoyed by citizens of other faiths is the neo-McCarthyite response to a planned Islamic cultural center in New York City. Newt Gingrich, who fancies himself a possible 2012 presidential candidate, justifies his opposition to the New York Islamic center because "America is experiencing an Islamist cultural-political offensive designed to undermine and destroy our civilization." He would bar a mosque "near Ground Zero in New York so long as there are no churches or synagogues in Saudi Arabia" -- as if the constitutionally-protected religious rights of Americans depend on the actions of a foreign government. Sarah Palin, another GOP presidential hopeful, calls the New York Islamic center a stab in the heart of all Americans and an "unnecessary provocation" that all "peaceful Muslims" must

"refudiate [sic]." Not to be outdone in Islamophobic rhetoric, New York gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino said that, if elected, he would use the power of eminent domain to stop the building of the Islamic center.

Newt Gingrich, who fancies himself a possible 2012 presidential candidate, justifies his opposition to the New York Islamic center because "America is experiencing an Islamist cultural-political offensive designed to undermine and destroy our civilizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Paladino did not explain how this maneuver would pass muster under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of 2000, which states: "No government shall impose or implement a land use regulation that discrimi-

nates against any assembly or institution on the basis of religion or religious denomination." Rick Lazio, another New York gubernatorial candidate, even has a petition on his campaign website calling on visitors to "Defend New York" from the planned Islamic center. One wonders how the city has managed to defend itself from another mosque that has been in that same neighborhood for 27 years. But for all out loony tunes bigotry, American Muslims can always count on Frank Gaffney's Center for Security Policy for some 1930s style minority-bashing. Gaffney, who was recently slammed by Rachel Maddow for the anti-Muslim conspiracy theories he promotes, is hyping a 1minute video claiming the New York Islamic center would "defile Ground Zero with a beachhead for shariah." But what else could be expected of an individual who claims an American Muslim is committing an act of "sedition" merely for believing in Islamic law and employs a staff attorney, David Yerushalmi, who heads a group that has advocated prison terms for "adherence to Islam"? Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 23

through because she always had a smile on her face that could brighten up anyone's day. Then that glorious day came when she was given a second chance at life

Vishnu Patel said he has planned to host more charity events, like this one, at least once a year in the memory of his wife, Kusum Patel, and hoped that everyone continues to show their support through the help of an anonymous bone marrow donor as she was admitted into City of Hope, Duarte, CA on September 8, 2008. With this ray of hope, Mrs. Patel and her family were looking forward to a new beginning, but it seemed to be premature as she

passed away on October 20, 2008. On Thursday July 15, Vishnu Patel and a group of twenty community leaders went for an official tour of all the facilities and accommodations. They were welcomed as honored guests and a luncheon was arranged where they were formally introduced with the heads of the facilities. Everyone enjoyed the outing and was pleased with the heartwarming reception that was presented in their honor and are looking forward to keeping this connection with City of Hope for years to come. Vishnu Patel said he has planned to host more charity events, like this one, at least once a year in the memory of his wife, Kusum Patel, and hoped that everyone continues to show their support in helping those less fortunate. He wishes that whether one has been affected by cancer through one form or another or not at all, they find it in their hearts to take that first step in possibly changing or even saving someone's life.

Dilip Butani elected Lions Club President India Post News Service

Dilip Butani was elected as the President of The Lions Club of Little India for the year 2010-11. This is the only Lions Club exclusively of The Indo-American Community. The other Committee members are Immediate Past President, Amrit Bhandari; Secretaries, Ramesh Ramnani and P.K. Nayak; Treasurers, Ajay Khetani and Vijay Patil; Vice-Presidents, Manorama Sharma, Kanti Shah, Hemant Shah and Ramesh Bhatt; Lion Tamer, Atul Ghadiali; Tail Twister, Sunil Kansara and Chairman Membership, Kailash Dhamija. The Board of Directors compromises of Venkatesh Hegde, Uka Solanki, Ravji Patel, Sam Bhogal, Siddharth Pathak, Nauzad Sadry, Jhanak Chopra, Senjal Patel, Tulsi Savani,

Dilip Butani

Suresh Bhatti and Tatiana Pavlova. Dilip Butani is also the Chairman of The Federation of IndianAmerican Associations, Southern California and Executive Vice-President of The Forum for India Community Services. After practicing Law for 18 years in Mumbai, Butani moved to the United States. In Mumbai, he was President of the Lions Club of Kalbadevi.

Community Across America

August 6, 2010

India Post 23

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When 'No' means 'Yes' DR. JASWANT SINGH SACHDEV

he other day, we hosted an American friend to a dinner at an Indian restaurant. Once the dinner was over, plenty of food was left, enough to have it as full meals for two people. My wife casually asked our guest, if he wanted to take the leftover food back home. She was under the impression that he is going to say, 'no' like most Indians under such circumstances would have initially done. And if he did, she will ask him once again. If after asking him two to three times, he still responded in 'nay' she then herself would take the leftover home for the food was excellent and was in plenty. But our American guest didn't take a minute and promptly responded back in affirmative stating, "Yes he would." He then asked the waiter to bring the boxes so that he could pack it all. Once he had done so, we left the restaurant after saying good bye to our guest. He took to his own way and we drove back to our home. En-route, we started to rehash this particular behavior of our American friend. What was interesting about this incident truly boiled down to the fact that our guest did not have the courtesy to say, 'no' not even once? It was beyond our imagination that by casually asking for only one time, he accepted the offer, packed the food and swept away the entire stuff without reciprocating. He tried not to find out whether we would also be interested in taking a portion of the food with us, if not all of it. Further on, being host, my wife felt imperative to seek the first right of refusal from the guest prior to taking an initiative to pack away the food. She didn't expect the guest to be so abrasive in his behavior. It is possible that while she was asking the American guest about taking leftover to his home,

she might well be hoping the outcome to be the other way around like most of us under such circumstances would have thought. Such a behavior in accepting something spontaneously, whether leftover from food or a gift is not considered typical for most of the peoples from India. Putting some thoughts into this incident, I started to envision this commonly observed dichotomy between the behaviors of the people of the East compared to that of the West. It was an interesting issue, for it threw some light upon how an Indian mind thinks and works under such circumstances as opposed to that of a Westerner. When people of India meet and greet with their friends and relatives and something is

limited to the offer of food. In other circumstances and situations, for example, when a friend or relative offers a gift on the wedding ceremony or for the celebration of the birthdays of our children, we exhibit same tendency of initial negative response, albeit superficially. While this may not be considered an outright lie, yet it surely is a misrepresentation, a misrepresentation of the underlying thought process. Most of the persons from Indian subcontinent, at time of offering or accepting a gift or while serving or being served food at the dinner table, are usually aware of this unique cultural artifact of Eastern behavior. Consequently, repeated attempts are usually made despite repeated 'no' by the

We may be extremely hungry or thirsty for that matter, still we often would initially respond negatively at least once or twice. Showing abruptness in such matters seems to be less than acceptable behavior in our minds and the word 'no' automatically appears on the lips served or offered, the usual tendency is to say, 'no.' first. For example, sitting at the dinner table of a friend or a relative's home, we initially attempt to refuse; be it a simple glass of water, a soft drink or even food. We may be extremely hungry or thirsty for that matter, still we often would initially respond negatively at least once or twice. Showing abruptness in such matters seems to be less than acceptable behavior in our minds and the word 'no' automatically appears on the lips. Yet, in the backdrop, we keep on hoping against hope that if only the host offers it once again, we will accept the offer and not disappoint him or her. Furthermore, this behavior is not only

guest and initial 'no' is not taken at its face value by the host. A rather spontaneous behavior of our non-Indian friend should not have appeared unusual to those who had been through similar kinds of situations at one time or other. When one offers anything to a Westerner, he or she probably would not hesitate in taking on the offer, but of course, after paying an appropriate thank you. Certainly, by no means does it imply that the people of the West lack something or they are more selfish than the Easterners. In my way of thinking, this is just a simple manifestation of their basic upfront attitude in such matters. They act or respond ex-

Does the Right view Muslims as equal citizens? Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 22

In a 2007 commentary, Yerushalmi called for a "war against Islam and all Muslim faithful." He wrote in part: "At a practical level, this means that Shari'a and Islamic law are immediately outlawed. Any Moslem in America who adopts historical and traditional Shari'a will be subject to deportation. Mosques which adhere to Islamic law will be shut down permanently." Why is all this bigotry and hatred being employed to stop the construction of a community center that will house recreational and banquet facilities, meeting rooms, an auditorium -- and yes, a prayer space for Muslims and people of other faiths? Unfortunately, there is a vocal minority in our nation whose lives are dedicated to marginalizing American Muslims and demonizing Islam. The techniques these individuals and groups use to promote Islamophobia may vary - whether it is a Florida church promoting

"International Burn a Koran Day" on September 11, a bizarre ballot measure in Oklahoma that would bar judges from considering Islamic law in their rulings, ACT! for America seeking to insert anti-Is-

The constitutional rights of American Muslims must not be left in the hands of those who exploit and promote fear of the "other" and use the same divisive tactics that have harmed so many other societies lam materials in school curricula, or Stop the Islamization of America's anti-Islam bus and taxi ad campaigns -- but they all agree on the ultimate goal of denying American Muslim their full rights

as citizens. Some Islamophobes would even deny American Muslims the most fundamental right -- the right to life. A recent post on a blog hosted by David Horowitz carried the genocidal headline, "It's Time to Put the Coffee Down and Eradicate Islam in the West." Religious and political leaders who believe in the traditional American values of tolerance and mutual respect should stand up and state clearly that all of our nation's citizens, including Muslims, have the right to decide how and where they will worship. The constitutional rights of American Muslims must not be left in the hands of those who exploit and promote fear of the "other" and use the same divisive tactics that have harmed so many other societies throughout history. Ibrahim Hooper is national communications director for the Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil liberties group.

actly the way they happen to think at that given moment. Nothing of the sort where the inner thought process would be at variance with what is being stated outwardly. Having said so, I need to add that this might not necessarily be true all the time and at every situation. In fact, being upfront and having clarity of mind has several advantages. No chance of confusion and procrastination is left for others to dwell upon later. One knows where one stands, what is going to happen next and what the consequence of the stated action will be. Synchronicity between the thought process and what is being spelled out by the tongue is essential for it leads to spontaneity in a correct action. Holding something in mind as an under-thought at a given moment while acting out differently, is not a good idea. On the other hand, one might counter state here that the initial 'no' in accepting a gift or meals or even a glass of water for that matter among the people of East, is usually a manifestation of humility and soberness of their behaviors. Abrupt acceptance of anything offered could represent emptiness. At least this is what most of the people from Indian subcontinent happen to feel. Once again, this could be compared to that oft-repeated proverbial statement of calling a glass half empty or half full depending upon how one finds things in life and from which culture one happens to come from. An action synchronic with clear cut thought process coupled with elements of humility usually produces solid result and should be emphasized. Dr. Jaswant Singh Sachdev is the author of a recently published book, "Square Pegs, Round Holes."

Sikhs leave a mark in Smithsonian Festival Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 20

picnic and very good weather just like a perfect Indian summer day. Americans of all colors thronged at the presentations by the Sikhs

It started with an introduction on Fox TV channel 5 about Sikh participation at the Folklife festival and sharing the Gurmukhi calligraphy (Punjabi language) by Gagan Kaur with the TV host Holly Morris. Different Team leaders were selected by GGSF coordinators to showcase the Sikh Manjeet Kaur Battu ( left) , Dr. Sarabjeet Kaur explaining Punjabi dresses and Meeta Broca on the right community's presence in America and various cultural and religious which included Gurbani Kirtan (reliobservances practiced by Sikhs. gious hymn singing), turban tying, Starting 11 am the National Mall henna tattoos, trying on Punjabi came alive because of the family clothes, and having visitors get their activities tent in the Asian Pacific names written in Gurmukhi calligraAmericans area. July 1st was one phy (Punjabi language), teaching of the busiest days at the festival Gurmukhi language, and of course because of the Smithsonian staff Punjabi cooking.

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India Post News Service

KOCHI: The Mahatma Gandhi National Foundation has decided to organize a campaign at the national level - Know Gandhiji with a view to imparting Gandhiji's ideals to the young generation. The program aims at warning the children on the evils of racism and terrorism. The Foundation will release an animation film, 'My Dear Bapuji', with this theme. The enthusiasts behind the project, Foundation Chairman Eby J. Jose, Producer of the film, Retheesh Pazhayaveettil and Director, A.K. Saibar, say that film, originally a pioneering project in Malayalam, will be re-

leased in English, and all Indian languages including Hindi, possibly as part of this year's Independence Day celebrations. It has been more than one and a half years since the work started on this 45-minute long visual treat. Special effort has been made to make the presentation impressive to children. The story runs like this: Three children (one girl and two boys) get a genie who enlightens the children on how to be successful in life by gaining knowledge. Children ask the genie about Mahatma Gandhi. The genie assumes the shape of their favorite Meena teacher and narrates Gandhiji's life to

August 6, 2010

the children. The significant happenings throughout Gandhiji's life are presented in the film. Gandhiji's honesty, non-violent strikes, his good heartedness and secular outlook are all dealt with in this animation film. Gandhiji's birth, his mother's devotion to God, the stories of his honesty in school years, the story of Sravanakumaran from the Puranas which enhances one's love for one's parents, the incident in which Gandhiji as a boy does penance before his father for dis-

honesty, the way he keeps his promise to his mother while living in London, the discrimination meted out to him during a train journey in South Africa and how this initiates him into public activities, how he becomes a leader of the struggle for freedom, the first hartal, the massacre of Jalianwala Bag, the non-cooperation movement, the salt strike, Jinnah's insistence on forming Pakistan, Gandhiji's secularist ideals, racial revolts and Gandhiji's views on the mediocrity in India are the major themes covered. The narration winds up with the brutal assassination of the Mahatma by Godse. The potential viewers being children, the presentation has been rendered in keeping with their tastes and interests. The Foundation has a long term project of producing animation films on the great freedom fighters like Subash Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Chandrasekhar Azad etc. Another dream project is a similar presentation on the former President of India, late Sri K.R. Narayanan. "The project of the animation film was triggered by an earnest longing to keep Gandhiji alive in the hearts of the young generation", says Retheesh

Pazhayaveettil, the producer. The idea struck him two years back. He wanted to exploit the scope and possibilities of modern technology to impart knowledge on Gandhiji to children. Retheesh, an office bearer of the Mahatma Gandhi National Foundation has sound knowledge of the animation technology and the works on the film is going on in Krishna InfoTech, a concern run by him.

Bharata Natyam by boys

Chirag and Dhruv

PREM KISHORE

ugust will see a roster of Arangetrams presented by Artistic Director Malathi Iyengar from the Rangoli Dance Company. These live performances of Bharata Natyam with mesmerizing , intricate rhythms, unique narrative, and powerful movements, always engage, enrich and showcase the best traditions of Indian classical dance

Iyengar is a cherished and innovative choreographer, student of Malathi Iyengar, thought it would be good idea dancer/artist of our times and it is with an exhilarating an- to encourage the boys to learn Bharata Natyam. She herticipation that one looks forward to the debut of her amaz- self had done her arangetram two years ago after studying with Malathi. ingly versatile, gifted young dancers. In an art form dominated by women it is rare to find Is it difficult to teach young children, I ask Malathi. "It young boys dedicated to long hours of has been a different type of challenge for practice, and being passionate about their ‘I am simply blown me. It is a different level of output when goal of being artists. Meet two young they are young. They absorb everything well. The schedule is quite rigorous. Two boys. Dhruv Sumathy is nine years old. away with their group classes and two private classes a Chirag Sumathy is thirteen. The brothers technique, their paint, play the piano and the clarinet. week. At this stage they can .The boys They attend a private school in Calabasas. strong body have to keep up with the school curricuTypical Indian American students. They lines and their lum as well. They study in a private school also learn classical dance Bharata Natyam in Calabasas. But they are committed to awareness of the 15-20 hours a week of disciplined training at Rangoli Dance Company. in dance. "Dhruv and Chirag are very grounded," spirituality of says dance guru Malathi Iyengar of Dhruv is relaxed and sits comfortably Rangoli Dance Company. They have a the dance’ on the ground during a break in the restrong self esteem and a core of strength hearsal. "I do miss some games but dance that allows them to focus. I am simply blown away with is worth it. Anyway I do swim and play basketball." Chirag tells me he was attending "dance and music their technique, their strong body lines and their awareperformances when I was five or six years old. My parents ness of the spirituality of the dance." The boys were vacationing in Mysore, India seven were very much interested in Indian culture so I started to years ago and attended a relative's dance performance. They get interested in this art." Cont’d on page 27 got interested and their mother Sumathy, who was also a

August 6, 2010

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Miss Asia & Mrs. Asia pageants on Aug 21

Miss India Rachna Mamidi India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: The 22nd Annual Miss Asia USA & Mrs. Asia USA 2010 Cultural Pageants will take place on Saturday, August 21 at the historical La Mirada Performing Arts Theatre. The pageant will present over 32 delegates representing majority of the countries in the Asian continent to display their cultural beauty and the sociability of their country. Through this historical celebration of Diversity, Beauty, Culture, Elegance and Talent, it is aimed to unite the fifty-eight countries and

Miss Sri Lanka Sarah Makandura

regions in the Asian continent. For the past 21 years, Asian women from all over the United States, gather in the name of friendly competition to vie for the coveted title Miss Asia USA & Mrs. Asia USA. The Pageants promotes leadership, personal growth, strengthen cultural values and camaraderie. In addition to the rigorous rehearsals in preparation of the pageant, the Delegates go through a series of rigorous training and workshops. They include workshops in poise, walking and modeling, public speaking, dining etiquette, fashion and wardrobe coordina-

tion, goal setting, interview skills, health and fitness. They also listen to motivational

The title Miss Asia USA & Mrs. Asia USA is earned through hard work, demonstration of self-confidence, intelligence, dedication, beauty and elegance workshops with speakers that excel in the field of the delegates interest. The delegate will not only

be an epitome of beauty and intelligence but a reflection of the unity and sociability of her country. The title Miss Asia USA & Mrs. Asia USA is earned through hard work, demonstration of selfconfidence, intelligence, dedication, beauty and elegance. The Miss Asia USA & Mrs. Asia USA Cultural Pageants displays the rich ethnic diversity of our society and gives us a glimpse into the multitudes of rich Asian cultures that surrounds us today. The lavish parade of the National Costumes, grace and elegance of the Evening Gown Com-

petition and the sensational Swimsuit Competition create an atmosphere of excitement, surpassing the audience expectation, time and time again. The pomp and pageantry of this event extend throughout the year for the reigning Queens who will be Ambassadors of Culture and Goodwill in the Asian communities of America. They will grace a myriad of special public appearances to promote unity, culture and goodwill. The event is now accepting applications for Miss Teen Asia USA

Oscar winner Pookutty launches Foundation in NY rest of the world, he added. "The major breakthrough was the Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionaire," he said. Crediting India's rich tradition for his success, Pookutty said, "I have the rich tradition of India to back me up, and that came from

Pookutty said he had created a sound library way back in 1998 to preserve the sounds of rural India since most of those authentic sounds were now missing Resul Pookutty and Dr Indira Rajan with George Abraham family India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Academy award winning sound engineer Resul Pookutty launched the Resul Pookutty Foundation in New York at an event held in his honor at the Indian Consulate on July 27. Pookutty, accompanied by Dr.

Indira Rajan, Chairperson of the Foundation, was greeted by an invited audience at the Consulate. Pookutty, who won an Oscar for Best Sound Engineering for Slumdog Millionaire, thanked the Indian Consulate for the reception and talked about how he became a success in sound engi-

Resul Pookutty presenting a memento to Dr Gondane

neering and his early inspirations like the quintessential sounds of rural India like the sound of a moving bullock cart and the sound of a bucket of water fetched from a well. Pookutty said he had created a sound library way back in 1998 to preserve the sounds of rural India since most of those authentic

sounds were now missing. He said his experiments in creating and blending sound and music with natural sounds made a turning point in sound recording in Indian cinema. His 14-year struggle experimenting with new ideas to perfect his vision is now being accepted by Bollywood and

my village (Anchal in Kerala) and my country." Announcing the launch of the Resul Pookutty Foundation's worldwide operations, Indira Rajan said the aims and objectives of the foundation were to benefit the under privileged in rural India. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 28

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16 dazzling finalists for Miss India-Canada event India Post News Service

TORONTO, Canada: Sixteen finalists have been selected for competition in the twentieth annual Miss India-Canada Event to be held on Saturday, August 21. The prestigious title carries with it numerous awards and prizes. In-

The Miss India-Canada event is unique in many ways-delegates are judged on their Indian Dress, Evening Gown, Talent, and their ability to speak in public. The show is focused on Indian arts and culture and at the same time blending into the Canadian mosaic. Once again, Rogers will give

Award' will be announced at the show. After the contest, one Rogers Rocket Stick will be given to a voter who will be randomly selected by Rogers. Other sponsors include: Om Financial, India Tourism, Cuisine of India, Bigen Speedy Hair Colour, Eglinton Carpet, Dream

Last year's finalists performing in the opening dance

cluded are a Round-Trip Ticket to India, Hotel Accommodation, Diamond Set, Rogers Netbook, Cash Scholarships, and many more prizes. During their three-day stay of activities, the 16 finalists will have an exciting and rewarding experience.

the general public an opportunity to vote for their favourite contestant. Contestants' photographs and information on how to vote will be placed online at: www.MissIndiaCanada.com beginning August 6. The winner of the 'Rogers People's Choice

Party Decor, and Nestle Noir Chocolate, to name a few. The 16 finalists will compete for the title on-stage on Saturday, August 21, 5:30m at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, culminating in the Crowning of Miss India-Canada 2010.

My Name is Khan to release on DVD Aug 10 India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Following a sensational theatrical debut that set a new all-time record for the biggest opening weekend for a Bollywood film in North America, My Name Is Khan arrives on DVD August 10 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. For all those who missed watching the movie in a theater, and wondered what made it one of the biggest Bollywood grosser at the box office in recent times, here's the opportunity to grab the DVD, which brings not only the full movie but several special features as bonus. Whether you watch them on the big screen or in the intimate setting of your home on home theater, television or even your laptop, Shah Rukh Khan - you know - never fails to dominate the screen with his sheer presence. Khan and Kajol, two of Bollywood's superstars, come together in this novel romance that tries to show that true love knows no boundaries or for that matter, mental challenges. Shah Rukh's character, Rizwan Khan, an Indian man afflicted with

Asperger's syndrome, has a unique way of looking at the world, which for most of us deemed as 'normal', may seem overly simplistic. He moves to San Francisco thanks to his brother, meets a vivacious single mother named Mandira (Kajol) and the two form a special bond and fall in love against all odds. But fate and tragedy in a post-9/11 America conspire to tear them apart. Just when it appears as though all hope is lost, Rizwan embarks on a remarkable journey across America to win back the love of his life as also managing to meet the President of America!

Shah Rukh's performance at times reminds one of Dustin Hoffman in Rainman and Kajol is just herself as one may have seen her in countless movies Shah Rukh's performance at times reminds one of Dustin Hoffman in Rainman and Kajol is just herself as one may have seen her in countless movies. In the US, the movie received generous reviews. The Los Angeles Times called it "a potent, energetic heart-tugger" and the New York Times said it was "an affecting fairy tale about the perils of goodness". Although the film generated controversy in India, it did amazingly well at the box office both at home and abroad. The film broke the record for the biggest opening ever in North America for a Bollywood film $1,944,027 on the weekend of Feb 12-14. Overall, it has become the #2 Bollywood movie of all time in North America and grossed $4,015,569 here. It was also the #1 all-time Bollywood hit in the UK. The DVD release is timed to coincide with India's Independence Day and showcases special features 'The changing face of Bollywood'; the enamoring onscreen partnership of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, behind-thescenes featurettes about the story, music from the film and more. My Name Is Khan will be available on standard DVD for $27.98 US / $43.48 Canada.

August 6, 2010

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Dheeyan Marjaania gets standing ovation India Post News Service

The play shook the

HAYWARD, CA: Over 1400 people applauded, laughed, cried, and gave standing ovation to the performance of Punjabi play Dheeyan Marjaania at the Chabot College Performing Arts Center. The play shook the audience on the important issue that is affecting society like a disease: female feticide. Its effects are seen among Punjabis, Indians, Asians and many others who will soon be directly affected with the

audience on the important issue that is affecting society like a disease: female feticide

come meaningless for such 'last male' (end of vansh) who will not marry, not bear any off spring, turn into psychological patient

or drug addict and end up as social garbage. This social garbage will spill into our streets. It's time to pay attention and ac-

cept gender equality completely. The play is written by Dr.Ajmer Singh Aulakh, an award winning playwright and directed by Ashok Tangri who has experience of 25 years in Punjabi Theater. Powerful performance of Kulwinder Walia got roaring applause from the audience.

Star Ananda debuts nationwide on Dish Network India Post News Service

D skewed ratio of girls to boys. One can only imagine what will happen when one in every four boys Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 24

Sumathy the mother herself was deeply committed to music and dance festivals in Chennai, India, which she says "is the heart of the arts. But it was only after moving to Calabasas, in California that I began lessons and did my arangetram by attending Rangoli Dance Company. "I have never forced the boys. As long as they enjoy it, I feel fulfilled." she says." The children need to channel their energy and though they work out in the outdoors. I dreamed of the day they would be inspired to learn Bharata Natyam. And it happened. My elder boy Chirag began lessons and the younger Dhruv, one day suddenly - I remember I was cooking, said, "I want to learn Bharata Natyam! I did a double take." Chirag explains that dance is something he loves. "It also helps me with memory. I remember all the details and it helps me when studying math and science." Both enjoy Western music. Chirag plays clarinet, drums and Dhruv plays violin and piano. There is no conflict of interest. Love of music and dance in both cultures infuses in them a connection with the arts. "There is something a little dif-

cannot be married, cannot start a family, turns to crime, etc. Dowry and inheritance laws be-

ish Network recently in troduced Star Ananda, a top-rated Bengali news channel from India to its repertoire of Indian channels. The channel is available exclusively in the US to Dish Network customers. Star Ananda is India's first 24-

hour national Bengali news channel. "The Star brand has the tradition of delivering high quality programming from the Indian continent to our viewers, and we look forward to the same from Star Ananda," said Chris Kuelling, vice president of International Programming for Dish Network. "We are proud to say that no

Bharata Natyam by boys ferent in teaching girls and teaching boys," Malathi muses. Boys are task oriented. They have more energy and stamina. When I train male dancers I have to be very conscious they are boys and pay Arangetram of Chirag and Dhruv Sumathy 4.00 pm August 22 Scherr Forum, Thousand Oaks particular attention to aesthetic form, the shape of their bodies, their individuality, how they stand, how they walk the position of the arms, their chest. I look with a discerning eye to see they look like boys, not imitate girl movements and so I have to make a careful choice of the choreography of

movement. I do not want them to be clones of girls. But be joyous about dance." I wonder if the students pursue dance careers after their Arangetram. "Some continue for the sheer love of the dance or to look good and fit, "says Malathi. Others use the years of training to add to their curricular references, some do wish to teach and some quit because it is quite simply impossible for them to stay connected with classical dance." For this Arangetram, Dhruv and Chirag will perform solo and together to live music. Costumes will be minimal. Unlike girl dancers, there is minimal makeup, no jewelry, no elaborate hairdo, no embellishments, instead simple fabrics form India and the audience can

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Rangoli Foundation, Malathi Iyengar, the Artistic Director, premieres a new work "Shivaya" featuring Krishna Chari, Renjith Babu Corked ,Gurumurthy G, Parkas Hegde, Murali Mohan Kalvakalva, Kirti Ramgopal, Nandakumar Unnikrishnan and Parshwanath Upadhye. Longtime Rangoli collaborators Ronald Burton and Navia Natarajan will return to perform with the skilled ensemble.

Arangetram Anisha Rao August 7 6.00 pm California State University, Northridge Arangetram Sanam Chalan August 21 6.00pm Cypress College Aug 28 Nate Holden Performing Arts Centre Los Angeles 5.00pm Aug 29 Scherr Hall Thousand Oaks 4.00pm concentrate on linear lines, abhinaya and the spirit of the dance. "I have plans to take Dhruv and Chirag to India in December for the dance and music festival and they will perform. It will be a stimulating experience for them." promises guru Malathi Iyengar. How did their school friends react to them learning Indian dance? 'Well, we are inviting them to the performance!" Sanam Chalan & Anisha Rao Malathi Iyengar will also present two dancers, 6 year old

other pay-TV company in America comes close to providing the breadth of South Asian programming that Dish Network offers its customers." Star Ananda is available to DISH Network customers for $19.99 per month as part of the Prabasi Bengali Pack, which also includes Tara Muzik and Aath. Sanam Chalan and twelve year old Anisha Rao as they do their Arangetram, having completed the required training in Bharata Natyam. Anisha Rao watched her sisters dance since she was three years old. When she attended cousin's Arrangetram she remembers being inspired by "The rhythms, the fast pace, the stories and the music." Anisha learns vocal Hindustani classical music also. "I became interested when my parents would listen to it on the car radio." Sanam Chalan's family has always been closely associated with music and culture. Her grandparents, parents, sister and other members of the family (Malathi Iyengar is her aunt) have always been the primary source of traditions, and forms of Indian arts. "It runs in my blood," she says. Father Sudarshan Chalan reinforces this by saying. "She is so self motivated, constantly practices and watches tapes of dances early in the morning." How do dancers remember the thousands of hand and leg movements, expressions, and keep in time with the music? Sudarshan replies, "It's all muscle memory. It

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Oscar winner Pookutty launches Foundation in NY Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 25

She said the priority was to help children in rural areas achieve a high level of advanced education. Several schools will be opened to provide quality education to children who otherwise are unable

to avail them due to poverty and insufficient facilities in villages. Rajan is also an educationist and CMD of Minerva Group of Educational institutions in Kochi, India stated. The Foundation is also making efforts to set up healthcare facilities and hospitals in villages to

provide quality care to the needy. Pariraksha is a mother and child care project to provide a world class maternity ward, extended child care facility to new born and mother. Social concerns are another priority of the Foundation, Rajan said. A well established network

of community centers in rural India will become a focal point for villagers to learn and adopt social changes on day to day basis, she said. Among those who attended the event were organizational leader from the tri-state area including George Abraham, General

Secretary of the Indian National Overseas Congress, Dr. George Jacob of World Malayalee Council, Gopalan Nair of Kerala community Center, B. Aravindakshan of Sree Narayana World Council, Dr. Najma Sultana of NRI-SAHI, Jose Chummar of FOMMA and Alex V Koshy.

August 6, 2010

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Big Cinemas hosts 'Spirit of My Tiranga' Festival India Post News Service

in auditoriums before the movie screenings and the lobby would be buzzing with safNEW YORK: Free movie screenings fron, white and green decorations and patriacross 11 Big Cinemas theatres in the US will otic Indian songs and videos. In addition, mark Big Cinemas' 'Spirit of My Tiranga' fes- BIG Cinemas has organized live flute and sitival to celebrate Indian Independence Day. tar recitals in the evenings as well. Big Cinemas is also the in-cinema partner BIG Cinemas, a division of Reliance MediaWorks and member of the Reliance for India Day Parades in Manhattan, Edison Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, is hosting and Fremont and would be showcasing its products, upcoming movthe 'Spirit of my Tiranga' fesies, hosting games, spontival across 11 theatres in the The week long soring prizes and freebies at US from August 7-15. movie marathon these parades. The week long movie Commenting on the fesmarathon will have a lineup will have a lineup of of memorable movies like memorable movies tival, Reliance MediaWorks CEO, Anil Arjun said: "The Rang De Basanti, Lage Raho like Rang De Munnabhai, 3 Idiots, Chak De Basanti, Lage Raho Indian Diaspora in USA has strong linkages with their India, Namaste London, Rock On, Sivaji, Dasavatharam, Munnabhai, 3 Idiots, origins and they like to celebrate occasions which and Indian, which would be Chak De India, bind them to their commuscreened free for patrons. Namaste London nity. Big Cinemas' 'Spirit of To get their free tickets for these iconic films during the 'Spirit of My My Tiranga' festival is our attempt to orgaTiranga' festival, guests need to visit nize a memorable event where the Indian us.bigcinemas.com and make reservations community can come together to not just online. With every reservation made, Big enjoy some of their all time favorite movies Cinemas guests enter automatically into but also feel a part of the Indian Indepen'Win Free weekend tickets for 1 year' Sweep- dence Day festivities." The free movies will be screened at Big stakes. To further enhance the audience experi- Cinemas' three theaters in California, two each ence during the festival, Big Cinemas would in New York and New Jersey, and one each in also be playing the Indian national anthem Virginia, Illinois, Michigan and Atlanta.

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he temple city of Mahabalipuram (also Mamallapuram) is situated just 60 km off Chennai on the Bay of Bengal coast in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It extends from latitude 12°37' in the North to longitude 80°14' in the East. The city is well connected through a network of roads from

best time to visit this place is during October to March. One is advised to avoid the monsoon period. Mahabalipuram Resorts are packed during the peak season, thus advance booking for Resorts Mahabalipuram is advised. History: Mahabalipuram is one of history's intriguing enigmas. The ancient Mamallapuram,

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as Mahabalipuram was formerly known, was flourishing port town of the Pallava rulers of south India who chiseled in stone a fabulous "open-air museum" of sculpture under the vault of a burning sky. Apart from this, nothing is known of the place. Cont’d on page 32

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Mahabalipuram: The sculptural extravaganza Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 31

What was the purpose behind this whole exercise, and, more important, why all the royal patronage this place enjoyed suddenly disappeared, no one actually has any answer. Staying at Mahabalipuram Resorts is a unique way of experiencing its history. Experts say that there were seven pagodas or temples on the shores of Mahabalipuram. All but one were pillaged by the rapacious sea, though there is little underwater evidence to substantiate their existence. Most of the temples and rock carvings of this place were built during the reigns of Narsinha Varman I (AD 630-668) and Narsinha Varman II (AD 700-728). Though the initial kings of Pallava dynasty were followers of Jainism, the conversion of Mahendra Varman (AD 600-630) to Shaivism led most of the monuments to be related with Shiva or

Vishnu. Tourist attractions The Varaha Cave, a small rockcut mandapam (hall), is a faceted and finished gem with four panels of the famous Pallava doorkeepers who wear an expression of "pious rapture," as Heinrich Zimmer, a leading expert on Mahabalipuram put it. There is

about them a mood of contemplative reverie, a lyrical softness and subtle grace totally at variance with the primordial machismo their role as guards of the gods imposes on them. Accommodation in Resorts Mahabalipuram close to the tourist spots can be arranged. Feeble sunlight glimmers on panels of enduring beauty in the Mahishamardini Cave. The Somaskanda sculpture radiates peace, power and wisdom while Lord Vishnu in omniscient repose is a masterpiece of dhwani (the art of suggestion) perfected by the Pallava sculptor. Arjuna's Penance, perhaps the world's largest bas-relief, is the universe itself in stone, throbbing with a vastness of conception. Legend has it that King Bhagiratha had to bring down to earth the celestial Ganga to purify and redeem the cursed souls of his ancestors. But the river in its torrential plunge would inundate the earth, and so

he had to undergo a penance to propitiate Shiva who finally received the flood in his matted locks and let it trickle down. This was a sight for the world's creatures to see and they gathered round. The cleft in the rock depicts the descent of Ganga, a theory supported by the ruins of a stone water tank on the hill. There is a forest with tribal people and all forms of animal life,

just as they would appear in their habitat. Women clothed in an aura of ineffable grace, a rich inner beauty transfiguring the plainest of them. The whole scene has a delicate edge of humor. Juxtaposed against the ascetic is a cat doing rigorous penance too, eyes firmly shut, even to the delectable mice scampering around within easy reach. The five rathas (chariots) are architectural precursors of the temples of south India. The smallest and the simplest is the Draupadi ratha and the largest is the multi-storeyed Dharmaraja ratha scoped from a monolithic rock. These small, unfinished shrines ravaged by war and weather are things of undiminished beauty. However, it is the Shore Temple that evokes the spell of Mahabalipuram. A three-in-one abode of god-a Vishnu temple

An ideal place for water sports, Muttukadu is 21 km from Mamallapuram. Mahabalipuram Resorts are ideal accommodation options here. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) has a boathouse here. Visitors can enjoy boating, canoeing, kayaking, and windsurfing. The Dakshina Chitra of Madras Craft Foundation here has replica of an old agricultural house of Tamil Nadu, replica of Kanchipuram weavers house and replicas of ancient houses presenting the lifestyle of South India. Fairs & festivals Pongal, the most important festival of the Tamils, is celebrated in mid-January every year. The festival is celebrated amidst gaiety and joy not only in Tamil Nadu but also in most parts of South India. Mahabalipuram Dance Festival is an occasion for the dance lovers to enjoy the performances of

Feeble sunlight glimmers on panels of enduring beauty in the Mahishamardini Cave. The Somaskanda sculpture radiates peace, power and wisdom while Lord Vishnu in omniscient repose is a masterpiece of dhwani (the art of suggestion) perfected by the Pallava sculptor sandwiched between two Shiva temples-it is a visual delight, its precincts abounding in architectural masterpieces. The Sculpture Museum in East Raja Street contains more than 3,000 sculptures by the local arti-

sans, made in wood, metal, brass, and cement. Places around About 5 km north of Mahabalipuram is Tiger Caves, a rock-cut shrine, possibly dating from 7th century. Tirukkalikundram, around 14 km from Mahabalipuram, is a pilgrimage center. The place has a hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

the artists from all parts of the country. The festival is celebrated in the month of January/February every year. The Shore Temple forms the backdrop of this festival and the music from the musical instruments mixes with the natural music of wind and the sea. The Mahabalipuram Dance festival is an occasion when artists from all over the country come together to perform. The Sthalasayana Perumal temple festivals, Masimagam and Brahmothsavam, are held in the month of March. How to reach Air - The nearest airport from Mahabalipuram is Chennai (Madras), located around 60 km away. One can get flights for almost all major destinations in India and abroad. Rail - The nearest railway station, Chengalpattu, is around 29 km away from Mahabalipuram. Trains for Chennai and several other major cities in South India are available from here. Road - Mamallapuram is connected by road to Chennai, Tirukkalikundram (Pakshithirtham), Kanchipuram (65 km), and Pondicherry. We would provide you all India tourist permit vehicles for the local transportations and also for the intercity drives too.

Travel & Hospitality Post

August 6, 2010

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Seamless travel in Delhi-Agra-Jaipur sector NEW DELHI: Ahead of Commonwealth Games, hassle-free movement of tourist vehicles in the Golden Triangle has finally taken off. The first set of commercial vehicles carrying tourists left for Delhi-AgraJaipur circuit known as Golden Triangle on July 17 and returned the same night availing the seamless travel facility introduced by the government. There was a need for the single window tax paying system for commercial tourist vehicles instead of the existing multiple inter-state road transport barriers to facilitate seamless travel in the NCR zone. Now the road tax would be collected cen-

trally and apportioned to states, said a senior Tourism Ministry official. Initiated by the Tourism Ministry in close coordination with the Urban Development Ministry and Road Transport and Highways Ministry and other stakeholders, the seamless movement of commercial vehicles is expected to facilitate hassle-free tourist movement in adjoining states. The Golden Triangle of Agra-DelhiJaipur is one of the most sought after circuits by foreign and domestic tourists. "There will be an influx of tourists in the NCR during the Commonwealth Games in Delhi and the new system would facilitate

smooth movement of tourist traffic and avoid delays and inconvenience to tourists," the official said. An octagonal sticker with security features is being provided for the commercial tourist vehicles. The sticker contains all requisite details such as registration number of the vehicle, name of the operator, origin and destination points, route and period for which tax has been paid. There would be random checking by the transport authorities to prevent misuse of the system. In the case of the capital, the Delhi Transport Authority would collect taxes from the government approved tour

operators and tourist transport operators on behalf of concerned states, based on type of vehicle, travel itinerary and tax structure prevalent. These taxes would be collected as separate drafts and Delhi Transport Authority would issue a composite permit allowing vehicles to move freely throughout the concerned states on the circuit. The new arrangement would not only boost the tourist inflow in the region but also would be beneficial for the states to plug in revenue leakage, said the official. All the state governments concerned would honor the permit for the duration of its validity. -PTI

Textiles, crafts of India on show during CWG NEW DELHI: A confluence of 'bazaars' displaying the best of textiles and artistic wares from across the country will provide a glimpse of India's traditional art and culture to visitors during the Commonwealth Games. Although Ministry of Textiles through the Development Commissioners (DC) Handicraft and Handlooms regularly sets up such fairs throughout India, for the upcoming Games artisans and weavers are set to converge at the 'golden triangle' of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, according to official sources. Kanjeevaram silk from Tamil Nadu, Patachitra from Orissa, Chikankari from Lucknow and Mojiris from Rajasthan are a sample of textiles that would be exhibited at the outlets. During the first two weeks in October, a total of 150 national awardees along with masters specializing in crafting handmade goods and weaving cloth would come together at a special master creation program in the capital. The bazaars, typical of centuries-old markets in India are expected to be set up along the 'Golden Triangle' route in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur especially to at-

tract visitors from countries participating at the Games. "Special Master Creation program held every year during December will be now take place in

Kanjeevaram silk from Tamil Nadu, Patachitra from Orissa, Chikankari from Lucknow and Mojiris from Rajasthan are a sample of textiles that would be exhibited at the outlets. 150 national awardees along with masters specializing in crafting handmade goods and weaving cloth would come together at a special master creation program in the capital October. Gandhi Shilp Bazaars will also be set up each in Jaipur and Agra keeping in mind the tourists

visiting along with Delhi," Alka Arora, Additional Development Commissioner (Handicraft) told PTI. The Textiles Ministry organizes annually the Special Master Creation Program with an investment of Rs 17-20 lakhs at the Dilli Haat under administration of the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation. Also the Ministry in collaboration with different handicraft corporations and NGOs regularly sets up "Gandhi Shilp Bazaars" across various cities in the country. Both the Shilp Bazaars and the master creation program would be held jointly during the Games with 100 of the 150 stalls reserved for the award winning craftsmen and the remaining to be shared by award winning weavers. "The special Master Creation program is something people in and around Delhi wait eagerly for as one gets the best of the products from the best of the artisans and weavers," says a senior official from DC Handloom. "We have already posted letters to the National awardees to exhibit their wares during October 1-15th in Dilli Haat," says a senior official. -PTI

Ancient underground city unearthed in Iran TEHRAN: An ancient underground city believed to have been used as shelter during wars by habitants has been discovered in western Iranian province of Hamedan. The city is located near the village of Arzanfud, 25 kilometers southeast of the city of Hamedan, the Hamedan Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Depart-

ment (HCHTHD) announced in a press release. The city, which is comprised of 25 rooms connected to each other by several corridors, had been dug under a stone mound at a depth of 4 to 6 meters. According to initial studies, the city likely dates back to the kingdom of the Medes or the Parthian era (247 BC - 224 AD).

The city's original entrance has not been found so far, but it is accessible through an opening that has been made by HCHTHD's experts. There are holes carved in the walls, which had been made to hold early light fixtures. A crib has also been identified in the structure. A number of stone rings and clasps have also been discovered in the city.-PTI

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Horoscope

36 India Post

August 6, 2010

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ARIES Mar 21-Apr 20 Guidance from a trusted friend will help you overcome many difficulties and see things in a clear way. Things will be little tight on financial front also but you will meet all commitments on time. Some of you will be taking a trip in direction East. Issues involving a child will come to a favorable ending.

LEO Jul 23-Aug 22 If you do not play your cards right, soon you will be in a financial mess. Do thorough research before you make the commitment. An important meeting will ultimately get finalised and you will start making the preparation. You may be in touch with an expert to seek advice about an issue involving a child.

SAGITTARIUS

August 6 to August 12

Nov 23-Dec 22 A major break in career just a few days away so stay optimistic. Money wise you will continue to stay in comfortable zone as expenses will come down a lot. You will plan a short trip to another state with family. You may be thinking of getting some work done in or around the house or add another area.

Readers Write... www.indiapost.com

Hindutva: The new vision of reality

he world needs a new vi sion of reality. It is Hindutva, the ecological based Hindu Dharma. Hindu Dharma is supported by science, but rooted in a perception of reality that reaches beyond the reductionist frame work to the intuitive awareness of the oneness of all life. Hindutva promotes the interdependence of the world and its multiple manifestations, and the cycles of change and transformation. Hindutva views that the universe is spiritual; it has direction; and the explanation of ordinary facts, human actions, changes and human relationships and problems may be grasped once we recognize how they are imbedded in this cosmic organism, how they are directed by the Absolute (Brahman) , how they play their part in the Universe's progressive realization of the soul. In this world of change and development, medieval political, dualistic, divisive, dogmas paraded as religions are hopelessly inadequate to finding peace, harmony, progress and tranquility in the world. Even

though these dogmas are conflict producing, these closed dogmas have attracted the attention of several thinkers and political movements seeking world dominance. They have competed for the minds and hearts of the masses throughout the world often with deception and violence. These dogmatic thought systems have liberated millions of people by force or deception from their traditional spiritual roots and enslaved them in the fundamentalist paradi gms. Those who question these inadequate dualistic and conflict producing dogmas are attacked with emotional outbursts and violence. In this context, we need to promote the universal, systemic and all inclusive Vedic thought system. When the concept of the Universe and the human spirit is understood in the Vedic sense, as the individual (Jiva and Atma) is connected to the cosmos as a whole (Brahman), it becomes that the ecological awareness is truly spiritual. Dr. Babu Suseelan babususeelan@hotmail.com

Disclaimer :- India Post does not endorse opinions expressed in the letters.

TAURUS Apr 21-May 20 You may ignore the conflicting reports and go ahead with your plans. New friends and contacts will come handy. All presentations will go well and a big contract is within your reach. You will try to help your child with his future plans and maybe move. Long awaited reply will finally come from government agency.

VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 There will be lots of confusion in mind and things can become opaque again. Help will come from total unexpected place and person. You will take time out of busy schedule to take kids on a fun trip. Some of you will be getting ready to move to a nice location. Do not rush to conclusion when it comes to relationships.

CAPRICORN Dec 23-Jan 19 Concentration of planets in house of luck will bring more than one opportunity. You may recover some money from Insurance also. Concerns about an older family member will grow bigger. Keep an eye on your valuable during the course of a trip. You will be invited to a big party by a very close relative.

GEMINI May 21-Jun 20 You may buy some fine quality items for your personal use. You will be double minded about an important issue but ultimately take the right decisions. Projects recently launched will keep moving in right direction at fast pace. You will throw out many fears after consulting a trusted and matured person.

LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 Value of Stocks recently purchased will appreciate considerably. If you are not careful you could get into some trouble with law. Boss will ask you to go on an important trip. Keep an eye on other family members using credit cards. Some of you may make up your mind to get out of a partnership venture soon.

AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 Try to relax as much for next few weeks and postpone all major decisions. Some of you will be traveling far away from home this week. You may find some item and return it to the rightful owner. Money will come but will not stay too long. You will spend a quite evening with people from political background.

CANCER Jun 21-Jul 22 You may loose little money due to a contract recently signed in a hurry. There is a strong chance of money through lottery or stocks. You will be little aggressive on the phone but will get the job done. Just handle all tools and machinery will extra care. You will be working on a travel plan for close family members.

SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 22 You will have chance to learn from someone lot younger in age. News will come but not through proper channel. You may be nominated for some kind of prestigious award also. You may either replace or purchase another car this week. You may cash out some money making stocks and out money aside in savings.

PISCES Feb 19-Mar 20 You will be paying more attention to spouse. A business partner will try to create some problems. Money wise you will be comfortable. Some one you knew in the past will call to seek your valuable advice. You will be going for an important business trip soon. You will be given a choice to move to another department.

Realty Tidbits

Credai to move court on Goods and Services Tax

Real Estate

eal estate developers apex body Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Association of India (Credai) plans to file a case against the proposed Goods and Services Tax (GST). "Currently we are collecting it from our customers which we don't want to. Soon we will file a case at the national level,'' the Credai National Vice-President, Mr Prakash Challa, told reporters. He said the service tax would only escalate cost (to customers). Developers collect money either by charging 4.12 per cent of the construction cost or by collecting 10.3 per cent from the overall saleable value.

Mahindra's Real Estate profit rises 39 %

ahindra and Mahindra's real estate development arm, Mahindra Lifespaces, clocked a 39 per cent rise in net profits to Rs 14.48-crore in Q1 of FY 11, driven largely by good performance in the residential segment. The company's net profit in the corresponding period last year was Rs 10.42-crore. The operating income of the company also registered a 44 per cent increase, rising to Rs 67.93-crore as compared to Rs 47.26-crore the year before. "The growth in the commercial real estate has been subdued over the last year, but we have concentrated on residential real estate to compensate for it which has led us to good numbers," company Chairman, Arun Nanda, said addressing shareholders at the firm's annual general meeting here.

Karnataka CCI opposes FDI in retail

he blood of 160 million Indian families will be on the Center's hands if it allows foreign direct investment (FDI) in the multibrand Indian retail market, corporate consultant and economist S Gurumurthy has said. Addressing the Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) on the dangers of FDI in retail market, he said the West was trying to hoist a failed system on India, which had strong familial and savings culture helping it withstand the recent economic turbulence caused by the 'consumerist America'. He said India had about 125 lakh retail (kirana) shops, which sustained 16 crore people.

37 India Post

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August 6, 2010

Sterling Springdale comes up with pool villas

he Chennai-based developer Sterling Springdale Properties has come out with an exciting project offering independent pool villas amidst lush greenery less than an hour's drive from the city. The project is being promoted as a good opportunity to invest in a farmhouse. The company is targeting the high-end executives working in and around the Sriperumbudur industrial cluster that houses automobile, telecom and electronic hardware companies.

Upswing in demand for luxury homes

et another piece of the real estate market appears to be getting back in shape. After realtors focused on the affordable housing space, where demand remained reasonable when market prices crashed two years ago, they are now launching luxury homes as the segment is witnessing early signals of an upswing in demand. Sensing this turnaround, a host of property developers including DLF, Unitech, Emaar MGF and Ansal API are gearing up to launch plush housing projects, where a single unit costs upwards of 2 crore, over the next six months. "Now that the job market is looking up, consumers are once again regaining the confidence to put money in swank projects," said Shravan Gupta, executive vice chairman and managing director at Emaar MGF. The Delhi-based property developer plans to launch around 2,000 upscale units over the next six months across cities such as Gurgaon, Hyderabad,

Punjab, Bangalore and Kerala. Unitech, the country's secondlargest builder, who had focused on affordable housing space, too plans to launch a few luxury projects to target high-end home buyers. Unitech spokeswoman said it has a few projects in the works in the luxury housing segment located in the national capi-

category focus on fully-embellished apartments, which can be further customized to the individual buyer's preferences. Pranav Ansal-led Ansal API plans to launch a mix of high-end villas and apartments in Lucknow and NCR by the end of 2010. While they are coming up with a golf course property in the price range of 3-7 crore

While in metros such as Mumbai and Delhi, the cost of such high-end houses can begin from 2 crore, in tier-II cities they can be around 1 crore and above. Builders in this category focus on fully-embellished apartments tal region. Luxury homes are targeted towards high net worth individuals and the price range of such apartments varies from city to city. While in metros such as Mumbai and Delhi, the cost of such highend houses can begin from 2 crore, in tier-II cities they can be around 1 crore and above. Builders in this

in Lucknow, in Gurgaon they are launching villas in Esencia township in the bracket of 6-7 crore. Anil Kumar, deputy MD & CEO at Ansal API said the rising aspiration levels of consumers in India is the major factor propelling growth in the luxury realty segment. "More than expensive and stylish interiors and fittings, today

consumers are looking for more environmental-friendly features which are becoming luxuries for a better quality life and they are ready to pay for them," he said. India's biggest realtor DLF recently sold super luxury flats in the price range worth 4 crore each in central Delhi. Besides, it also launched at least three high-end projects in Gurgaon including Park Place and Golf Links, which too were reportedly sold off within days of launch. Anurag Mathur, MD at real estate services firm Cushman & Wakefield, said: "Prices of luxury homes in general has touched the peak level of 2007, while in some places such as Gurgaon and Mumbai, they have exceeded the 2007-prices. As per estimates of Cushman & Wakefield, over 8,000 residential units in the luxury segment are expected to be ready by 2013. The total supply expected this year will be 85,000 units of which about 14% will be luxury projects.

Developers urge govt to retain SEZ Act

pecial Economic Zone (SEZ) developers are peeved over the continued uncertainty created by the direct tax code (DTC) drafts, released by the union finance ministry, over tax benefits prescribed by the SEZ Act. They want the central government to retain the SEZ Act, as passed by the Parliament, as they fear linking it with the proposed DTC regime, to come into force from April 1 2011, will eventually dilute the prescribed tax benefits. The second draft of the DTC, released on June 15, 2010, limits benefits under income tax, minimum alternate tax (MAT) and dividend distribution tax to only those units that exist or come into existence in SEZs by March 31, 2011. Following the footsteps of SEZ developers in Andhra Pradesh, who successfully got chief minister K Rosaiah to take up their cause with finance minister Pranab Mukherjee, their counterparts in Tamil Nadu have now petitioned chief minister M Karunanidhi to plead their case before the centre. In a memorandum submitted to Karunanidhi, Tamil Nadu Association of SEZ Infrastructure Devel-

opers (Tasid) has requested him to take up the matter on a "very urgent basis" and suggest the centre "not to implement the provisions or incorporate any provisions that will be detrimental to the growth and sustenance of SEZs". It pointed out that the recession had already significantly impacted "investment interest" of

‘The SEZ Act was passed by Parliament to bring in stability and offer a firm commitment on certain benefits to both domestic and foreign investors to make India a global destination for manufacturing’ foreign investors even as the DTC uncertainty over the past year too had played havoc. "Any more delay in not removing the DTC uncertainty will only lead to more and more loss of investments as also jobs, export revenue and forex earnings," Tasid said in its submission. "The SEZ Act was passed by

Parliament to bring in stability and offer a firm commitment on certain benefits to both domestic and foreign investors to make India a global destination for manufacturing. Any attempts to tinker that commitment will impact the image of Brand India among global investing community," said Sunil Rallan, president, Tasid. "Our only request to the union government is to retain the SEZ Act in its present form and not to link it to the direct tax code. This will eventually lead to dilution of the SEZ benefits, thereby putting off prospective investors," said NNR Sharavanan, vice president,

Tasid. Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are the two prominent states, besides Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat that together account for a majority of notified SEZs in the country. Tamil Nadu alone has 57 SEZs, of which 20 are operational, with an additional six set to join the league by end of December this year. Unlike most other states, stateowned entities like Elcot and Tidco are in the forefront of promoting SEZs in Tamil Nadu through the JV and public private partnership route.

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Madno: Lamhaa 2

Ranjha Ranjha: Raavan

3 Main Kaun Hoon: Lamhaa 4 Rabba Luck Barsa: Kajraare 5 Fariyaad Hai: Mr.Singh Mrs.Mehta

38 India Post

www.indiapost.com

August 6, 2010

6 Bin Tere: I Hate Luv Storys 7

Tum Chain Ho: Milenge Milenge

8 Sajde: Khatta Meetha (New) 9 Tum Jo Aaye (Reprise): Once Upon A Time in Mumbai 10 I Love Amreeka: Tere Bin Laden

irector Anurag Basu came up with a strong and powerful subject in 'Silence', but the movie has been suffering delay due to the starry issues of the female actresses. Priyanka Chopra was supposed to play the lead role in the film, but when Asin and Katrina Kaif who were earlier chosen for equally pivotal roles in the film chose to opt out fearing they would be sidelined with Priyanka playing the plum role, the project's future seemed to be at dismay. It was then that Piggie Chops decided to take action as she felt that 'Silence' is too powerful a project to be stalled. So, she took a step which no leading actress would dare to and she decided to swap roles and go for the one which was weaker so that the project moved further. Now, PC essays a mentally challenged person alongside Ranbir Kapoor, who enacts a deaf mute guy in the hero and director Anurag Basu intends to take Priyanka Chopra to a mental asylum to help her get into the skin of her role. Confirming the news, Priyanka said, "I will start shooting for Anurag's Silence in January 2011 after completing Don 2. I am preparing for my role. I need to undergo training to perform the role perfectly. I am happy to get such a challenging role, which many of my age do not get."

meesha Patel, the girl who debuted with 'Kaho Naa Pyar Hai', swept the filmdom across its feet with her innocent beauty, but then her career seemed to go through a downslide with rough patches in her personal life too. In a desperate bid to make a comeback, Ameesha has now resorted to the tried and tested formula of daring and baring it all. She went for a bikini makeover for 'Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic', then chose to bare her bosom for Dabboo Ratnani's calendar and has once again gone topless to send waves through her photo shoot for the July issue of 'The Man'. She has also given an ample cleavage show for the magazine. In the interview for the mag, she reveals that she wants to play a role Gundi (Gangster) in the days to come.

emember Antara Mali? Yes, the sensuous RGV girl who could not make it big in Bollywood despite her dare-bare act in 'Naach' and 'Mr Ya Miss' and then went into oblivion post marriage bidding adieu to the tinsel townâ&#x20AC;Ś. She is back now and with a difference. It is a completely deglamourized look in Amol Palekar's next 'And Once Again' where she plays a Buddhist monk. The film is being produced by Sangrila Kreations and also stars Rajat Kapoor and Rituparna Sengupta among others. The film has been shot in the picturesque locales of Sikkim. Antara has gone bold yet again for this role but not in the skin show. She has shaved her hair and gone bald for it. The movie deals with the intricacies of man-woman relationship and subtly talks about repercussions of violence on human life and its lingering shadow on all of us with its startling shades. Well, what RGV's skimpy clothes could not do for Antara Mali, hope Amol's hairless avatar does it for her!!!

August 6, 2010

Bollywood www.indiapost.com

Tough role P

retty Prachi Desai, who rose to prominence after her role in Rock On!, had some trouble playing her part in Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai. Prachi admits the role was an absolute changeover for her and she never had come across something like this before. She also said she had tough time mastering the gesture, style as well as body language for the character of Mumtaz, a middle class traditional Muslim girl. Prachi says the time-frame of the movie did act as a hindrance as well. The movie was set in the 70s and thus she had to thoroughly go through the attitude as well as the mindset of the people from that vintage era. The mannerisms, attitude and everything of the people from the 70s incredibly vary from the present scenario, and therefore the pretty actress had to do some groundwork in order to essay the role with flair.

Watch Laden, O sama!

ollywood hunk Salman Khan wants the dreaded Osama to watch the Bollywood flick, 'Tere Bin Laden', needless to add that Salman has loved this laughter chapter and was bursting into giggles every now and then throughout the film. Salman who is known to speak his heart out has advised the notorious Osama Bin Laden to watch the flick. He posted in popular social networking site, "Even Osama wud laugh. Obama shud keep a pvt screening for him."

Khans' khana B

ollywood's two leading Khans were spotted at the Japanese restaurant Hakkasan, in London, dining together on a Friday night. Aamir Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Karan Johar and Gauri Khan were seen laughing and joking over sushi and sashimi. Aamir Khan had invited Karan, SRK and Gauri for dinner and that's how the Khans ended up on the same table. Shahrukh was in London busy shooting for his sci-fi thriller Ra.One, while Aamir was there to promote his upcoming home production Peepli [Live]. Amir had reportedly invited SRK and Karan Johar for a special screening of his flick. Unfortunately, only Karan could make it, as SRK was busy shooting.

India Post

Tech News Chinese firm launches 20 new handsets NEW DELHI: Chinese telecom equipment maker Huawei Technologies has announced its entry into the Indian mobile handset market with the launch of 20 new handsets. Till now, Huawei was selling handsets bundled with services offered by telecom operators like Tata Teleservices and BSNL. "The Indian telecom industry is growing at the rate of 20 million subscribers a month. Our entry into the open market will help us tap more growth opportunities in India," Huawei Device Chief Marketing Officer Victor Xu told reporters here. The phones have been launched under two series - Hangout and Android - which are based on Qualcomm's chipset solutions.

GM to sell Chevrolet Volt for $41,000 in US DETROIT: General Motors Co has said its Chevrolet Volt electric car will cost $41,000 when it goes on sale in the US in November. While the price is about $8,000 more than its closest rival, the Nissan Leaf, GM said it will offer a $350-per-month lease deal that's essentially equal to the Leaf's. That will put the battery-powered Volt within reach of many people, GM said. Both cars also are eligible for a federal tax credit that will cut their prices by $7,500. The Volt would fall to $33,500 while the Leaf's would drop to $25,280 from nearly $33,000. Some states, such as California, Georgia and Oregon, offer additional tax breaks that lower the price further.

TechBiz 40 India Post

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August 6, 2010

Nokia's mail service faces IB security test NEW DELHI | KOLKATA: The Intelligence Bureau has asked the telecom department to stop Nokia's popular messaging services in India until they can be monitored, another sign of the growing discomfort of the country's spooks with similar offerings they view as suspect from a security angle. The security agency has written to the DoT that it is against the continuation of the Finnish company's push email service for corporates and consumers that allows the easy management of multiple accounts, said a DoT official familiar with the matter. The communiquĂŠ, a copy of which is with ET, shows that this is not the first time that the agency has brought the issue to the DoT's notice.

Citi-Anchin holds 'green' seminar for Indian businesses India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Citi-Anchin Indian Initiative recently presented the "Indian Businesses Go Green" event, the latest in its series of seminars and networking events focused on the Indian Business Community. The event, hosted at the offices of New York City law firm Moses & Singer LLP, a board member of the Indian Initiative, drew more than 70 Indian business owners and senior executives, leaders in the green community, and professionals from a diverse range of industries, including architecture, technology, engineering, and healthcare. The program focused on the many challenges and benefits in constructing, renovating and retrofitting green buildings in the US, India and other countries. George Houston, Director of the Sukyo Mahikari Center, discussed the Center's recent green construction and the unexpected pitfalls property owners should know before embarking on a green project. Richard Sobelsohn, a LEED AP real estate attorney at Moses & Singer, presented on the legal issues that

property owners, their product suppliers and service providers often face, and the need to retain professionals trained in sustainability practices. Included in Sobelsohn's talk were references to green buildings such as the ITC Green Center in Gurgaon, India which earned LEED Platinum status.

munity in the Tri-State area." John Keane, Division Manager for Citibank Commercial Banking, added that, "The Citi-Anchin Indian Initiative, through events such as this, is a prime example of Citi's strong commitment to serving and supporting different ethnic communities".

The program focused on the many challenges and benefits in constructing, renovating and retrofitting green buildings in the US, India and other countries Ali Hirji, Vice President of Business Development, Citibank Commercial Banking, who co-leads the Citi-Anchin Indian Initiative, remarked, "Citi is excited to be supporting these types of forums, which encourage networking among the Indian business com-

Kuldeepak (KD) Acharya, Partner at Anchin Block & Anchin LLP, who leads Anchin's effort in the Citi-Anchin Indian Initiative, said "The Initiative has really become very effective in addressing the needs of the Indian middle market business community in the Tri-

3 Indian projects in KPMG's global report MUMBAI: Global consultancy firm KPMG has said three Indian projects have been featured in its infrastructure 100 global project report. The three Indian projects are KG-D6, Mundra and Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, KPMG said in a statement here. The report showcases one hundred examples of the great projects that are at different stages of development across the world. "KG-D6 project not only sets new standards in integrated gas infrastructure projects but it also launches an innovated approach to the sale and transportation of energy, helping to accelerate India's economic growth," KPMG said The 4,000 MW Mundra plant, one of the nine ultra mega power projects, uses unfashionable coal, making it the most energy efficient plants vital to India's continuing economic development, it said. "The IGI Airport Expansion at

New Delhi was upgraded and modernized while still functioning, delivering a world-class facility, which is also being turned around in record time," KPMG said. Other global projects also featured in the report are -Venice MOSE Flood Barrier (Italy), Green Power Express (USA), Mthombo Oil Refinery (South Africa), Incheon Tidal Power Project (South Korea), TAV high speed rail link (Brazil), CRCHUM P3 research centre (Canada), King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (Saudi Arabia) and Greater Manchester Waste in UK. "Financing and building infrastructure is a global challenge today, with notable innovations in different parts of the world. We are already seeing the Indian infrastructure developers becoming a part of the global infrastructure community," KPMG India's Executive Director, Advisory Services, Manish Agarwal, said.-PTI

State area." Devika Kewalramani, a partner in Moses & Singer's Legal Ethics and Law Firm Practice Group, commented, "These events offer decision-makers from the Indian community an ideal forum to discuss their business and legal concerns." Kanu Agrawal, an architect from Robert A.M. Stern Architects, LLP said, "The speakers made real for us, especially for architects like me interested in sustainable futures, the dynamic growth of green businesses in India with useful insights into the benefits of going green." The Citi-Anchin Indian Initiative Board of Advisors are: ASB Communications, AXA Advisors, Hodgson Russ LLP, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce and Moses & Singer LLP. The event was held in collaboration with: TiE Tri-State and The Society of Indo-American Engineers and Architects.

Govt in talks with UK companies for infra projects NEW DELHI: The government is talking with UK-based construction as well as consulting companies to invest in the country's infrastructure projects, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Kamal Nath said here. "We are looking at construction companies in Britain and also consultants for investments in India," he said. The minister, however, refused to divulge the names of the companies saying that there were many of them and he could not name them just then. Kamal Nath, who was present at the unveiling of the 100,000th machine manufactured by construction equipment maker JCB India Ltd, did not specify the kind of projects these (British) companies would be investing in, as to if they would be road projects or the highway projects etc. He also met UK Business Secretary Vince Cable who also welcomed a series of multi-million pound deals between British and Indian firms.

August 6, 2010

TechBiz Post

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HC grants interim stay on service tax

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MUMBAI: In a major reprieve to home buyers and developers, the Bombay High Court has granted an interim stay on writ petition challenging collection of service tax levied on buildings under construction until further hearing. The writ petition has been moved by Maharashtra Chamber of Housing Industry, an umbrella organization of more than 500 developers. While admitting the petition on July 23, 2010, filed by MCHI against the Union of India and others in the matter of 'Service Tax levied on building under construction, a division bench of the Bombay High Court comprising Justice V C Daga and Justice S J Kathawala have granted interim stay until further hearing. The MCHI and others through their Writ Petition challenged the constitutional validity of the Finance Act 2010 seeking to amend the Finance Act 1994 introducing and explanation to section 65 (105) (zzq) and 65 (105) (zzzh) to introduce the Service Tax concept of 'Deemed Service" for any commercial or industrial construction of residential complex done prior to obtaining completion certificate. Next hearing in the matter along with other companion petitioners is posted for August Three. The MCHI in its Writ Petition urged the High Court to restrain the respondents (Union of India and others) from any manner taking steps against the members of MCHI in respect of the transactions for constructions, development and sale of immovable property under the various provisions of the Finance Act, 1994 and a new entry as amended by the Finance Act 2010 in any manner. In an interim order, the High Court ruled, "No coercive steps shall be taken against the petitioner for the recovery of Service Tax in relation to the provisions in question, but it is clarified that assessment may proceed in accordance with law." The court had posted the next hearing in the case on

August 3. "We are glad on the initial outcome on our legal recourse against the Service Tax levy which came into force from July 1, this year. We look forward further ruling by the Bombay High Court in this regard, as it would finally in the interest of the common man", said Mr Sunil Mantri, President MCHI. MCHI is of the view that the sale of a unit in the complex, as per the settled law of transfer of property, is not a service. Accordingly, sale by the builder should not be treated as a service, since Service Tax is levied ultimately on the property this would be a tax on transfer of immovable property only. "Any such a levy will increase the cost of the flat and ultimate buyer will have to bear such cost. On the one side National

MCHI is of the view that the sale of a unit in the complex, as per the settled law of transfer of property, is not a service. Accordingly, sale by the builder should not be treated as a service Housing and Habitate Policy 2007 envisages affordable housing for all, the proposal to levy of Service Tax irrespective of any kind of house would run counter to the policy of the government", Mantri said. "With the service tax in force from July 1, flat buyers now have to pay approximately 2.5% more as Service Tax on the total value of their flat. For example, if the value of a flat is shown Rs 1 crore in the agreement, the home buyer will have to shell out an additional Rs 2.5 lakh as Service Tax, which ultimately going against the interests of the common man", the MCHI president added. Senior Advocate Rafique Dada appeared on Behalf of Parimal K Shroff & Company for the MCHI in the court.

Key infrastructure targets may be missed

ureaucratic hurdles may cause India's government to miss 2012 in vestment targets in key sectors such as roads, railways and ports, potentially crimping economic growth, an adviser to the planning commission has said. Slow progress to overhaul India's crumbling infrastructure has long been seen a drag on growth, as Asia's third-largest economy looks to match the double digit expansion of neighboring China. Gajendra Haldea, a Planning Commission adviser, told Reuters the government was on track to meet its target to spend $500 billion on infrastructure between 2007 and 2012, with more than a third funded by private investors. But progress across sectors has been uneven. Investment in the telecoms sector is set to jump 34 per cent on the back of a $22 billion splurge on a recent 3G radio spectrum auction, he said. But the roads sector is likely to miss its target by 11 per cent, railways by 23 per cent and ports by 53 per cent. "The 500 billion story is very much intact in terms of total numbers," Haldea said in an interview. "There have been high achievements in some cases and shortfalls in others." Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government expects the Indian economy to

grow by around 8.5 per cent this fiscal year as, like China, it shakes off the effects of the global financial crisis. But experts say poor infrastructure shaves off up to 2 percentage points from India's annual growth. A high profile test case will be October's Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, intended to showcase India's economic clout -- but which has been blighted by construction delays in its venues. It may also take more than two years for the government to meet its 20 kilometers per day road construction target, Haldea said. The government needed to reform the state-run highway authority, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), to speed up progress, he added. "Much depends on how the entire sector especially the NHAI is run," he said. "It needs some restructuring. It needs clear, strong leadership, needs efficient and competent processes." The authority had not awarded enough road contracts in the past three years, Haldea said. The government announced a series of measures to boost funding for India's infrastructure, including a $11 billion debt fund, in line with its target to double investment to $1 trillion between 2012 and 2017, roughly the size of its current GDP.

Health

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Medical device problems hurt 70,000 kids annually

CHICAGO: Government research says contact lenses are the top cause of medical device complications in kids. U.S. Food and Drug Administration researchers found that more than 70,000 children and teens get emergency room treatment each year for medical devicerelated problems. Many problems are things like infections and eye abrasions in contact lens wearers. These can result from wearing contact lenses too long without cleaning them. Other problems include puncture wounds from needle injections of medicine or illegal drugs, and infections from implanted shunts and catheters in chronically ill kids. -AP

Whooping cough on the rise in Idaho BOISE, Idaho: Idaho health officials are warning residents that cases of whooping cough are on the rise across the state. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare says that 77 cases of whooping cough, also called pertussis, have been reported in Idaho in the first six months of the year. That compares to 45 cases reported during the same period last year. Other states have seen an increase in the disease as well: California is dealing with a pertussis epidemic that has killed six infants so far. State epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn says the department is encouraging families to get vaccinated against the illness. -AP

Freebie flu shots to end in Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY: The state of Oklahoma is ending the practice of offering free flu shots at health department sites statewide. The state will now charge $25 for the seasonal flu shot. The fee is projected to raise about $750,000. Vaccine manager Dorothy Cox with the state Health Department says the state spent $1.5 million last year for 195,000 seasonal flu shots. Immunization services chief Don Blose says the state still wants to be sure those who can't pay are not denied a vaccination. He says people on Medicare and without an HMO, on Medicaid or children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program will not be charged. -AP

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August 6, 2010

UNH gets federal grant to study ADHD drugs DURHAM, N.H: A University of New Hampshire researcher has received a $400,000 federal grant to study how drugs used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder affect normal adolescent brains. -AP

Pharmacist on hunger strike to protest against Medco policies SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: "Conserving all energy, I am losing some strength but still of clear mind," wrote Rajendra Bhat, a Tampa, Florida based pharmacist, on his blog July 26. It was the 22nd day of his hunger strike. "My hunger strike brings clarity to the fight to preserve all pharmacists' work ethics especially in the e-pharmacy and highly automated settings," he continued in the same posting. "I protest the Quota System management concept. It is wrong, unsafe, unethical." According to Pharmalot.com, Bhat's hunger strike is to protest allegedly illegal and unsafe business practices, as well as wrongful treatment of pharmacists by Medco Health Solutions, the big pharmacy benefits manager, where he worked until July 2005. Prior to his dismissal, Bhat complained to Medco managers that a new policy requiring pharmacists to process at least 45 to 55 prescriptions an hour was "unreasonably high" and led to a growing number of errors that placed patients in jeopardy. According to Bhat, by 2004,

under the new quota imposed by Medco, the error rate at a local Medco facility was up to 300 errors for every 1 million prescriptions, a twelve-fold increase from the origin error rate of 25 errors for every 1 million prescriptions filled. In his quest to right the wrong being done by Medco, Bhat contacted the Florida Board of Pharmacy, the US Drug Enforcement

going on at Medco. "My entire focus is my concern for people who take prescription medicine...and get the wrong dose, or the wrong medicine entirely, or the wrong instructions (medicine errors from a pharmacy kill)," Bhat writes on his blog. "Management at Medco has implemented a hurry up and give us your best guess attitude instead of a compassion-

Bhat's hunger strike is to protest allegedly illegal and unsafe business practices, as well as wrongful treatment of pharmacists by Medco Health Solutions, the big pharmacy benefits manager Agency and, later, Medco CEO David Snow. However, he was fired exactly four days after the Florida agency closed its case without taking any action. In 2007, Bhat filed a lawsuit charging Medco retaliated against him, which violated the state Whistleblower statute. The case was recently dismissed, but he plans to appeal. Meanwhile, he says Medco is seeking $1 million in legal fees from him. Frustrated by the turn of events, Bhat began his hunger strike to raise "public awareness of what is

ate and professional setting (Code of Ethics in full use)… I am building a list of supporters and all the information of any kind I can gather at the suggestion of the US Senate Finance Committee. Eventually, the Quota System will be fatal to enough patients until Medco is reigned in or perhaps the government will push through the bureaucracy…" In response to a question from Pharmalot.com, a Medco spokeswoman said: "Medco's Office of Ethics thoroughly investigated Raj Bhat's issues and found that they

were without merit or foundation. Mr. Bhat's issues were also investigated by Florida Board of Pharmacy and were found without merit or foundation. In addition, Mr. Bhat's allegations were dismissed by the court in January 2010, when Medco won summary judgment. Mr. Bhat's termination was based solely on poor performance and his failure to raise performance levels to acceptable standards despite repeated warnings." Bhat, who is currently living only on water, told Pharmalot.com that his intention was not to die in the process of fighting for the cause. "The focus should be on the issues and not me. I don't want a knee-jerk reaction. But no, it's not my intention (to kill myself). I'll have to assess how far I've gone. It's not like I want this to continue indefinitely, but so far it's had an impact." Bhat earned a Masters degree in pharmacology in his native India from Bangalore University in 1985. He interned at a Wal-Mart pharmacy when he came to the US in 1994. The following year, he was the retail pharmacy manager at a Winn-Dixie store. Bhat came to Medco's Tampa facility in 1995.

ND cancer survivor credits strong support system WILLISTON, ND: Williston's Phil Rabon says positive thinking and a strong support system are a key component to battling cancer. ``Stress seems to be one of the reasons why cancer returns. You've gotta think positive about all this stuff,'' said Rabon. Rabon was diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer, commonly called throat cancer, in 1999. The long-time athletic coach at Williston State College said the process began in 1993. Between 1993 and 1995 he had 10 separate surgeries on his vocal chords to remove growths. ``Every time, they never found cancer,'' said Rabon. Rabon said it was unusual

that after so many surgeries no cancer had been found. He retired in 1996 because of the impact the surgeries had on his vocal chords. In fall of 1999 the growth returned. This time cancer was found.

ynx,'' said Rabon. Rabon explained that when the larynx is removed the airway is separated from the mouth, nose and esophagus. After that he said you breathe through the neck. He added that there are differ-

To give back, Rabon has volunteered for the last eight years to talk to local fifth graders about the dangers of smoking. Even though he didn't smoke, Rabon said the goal is to show what could happen if they smoke This resulted in surgery and seven weeks of radiation treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. However, the growth returned again in 2002. ``I went in and did a laryngectomy, which is taking out the lar-

ent ways to allow for speech. The method he chose was to have a voice prosthesis placed in the breathing hole. To operate, he presses the button on his neck and can talk. Another method is to use a

voice box. Rabon said 90 percent of those with throat cancer developed it through smoking. He said he was part of that 10 percent that aren't smokers. To give back, Rabon has volunteered for the last eight years to talk to local fifth graders about the dangers of smoking. Even though he didn't smoke, Rabon said the goal is to show what could happen if they smoke so they make healthy choices. ``I've been given an opportunity to do some good,'' said Rabon. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 36,540 new cases of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer are reported each year. -AP

Health Science Post

August 6, 2010

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Arizona kids reportedly lagging FDA panel wants more restrictions on painkillers in immunizations MESA, Ariz.: Arizona children, ages 19 to 35 months, are ``severely lagging behind'' the federal recommendation to have 90 percent of them up to date on their immunizations, according to a report from the Arizona chapter of March of Dimes. Arizona's immunization rate is 76.4 percent, according to the March of Dimes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the 90 percent immunization rate. ``It is a critical public health issue that all children get vaccinated, as it affects not only them but the entire population,'' said Diane Zipley, state director of programs and public affairs for the Arizona chapter of the health charity group. ``Serious diseases that were previously thought to be eradicated in the United States including measles are returning due to low vaccination rates. Arizona must catch up for the good of our children and the communities they live in.'' The report states more than 30 percent of young children are under-immunized. In 2000, the CDC set the Health People 2010 objectives for 90 percent immunization.

The recommended vaccines for ages 19 months to 35 months are: four doses of DTap (Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine), three doses of polio, one dose of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), three doses of Hib (haemophilus influenzae type b), three doses of Hep B (hepatitis B) and one dose of varicella (chicken pox disease). Combined, it is known as 4:3:1:3:3:1 on the CDC website.

Since 2000, more Arizona kids have been getting the recommended vaccines, though the state has not met the 90 percent goal Since 2000, more Arizona kids have been getting the recommended vaccines, though the state has not met the 90 percent goal, said Dr. Karen Lewis, medical director of the Arizona Department of Health Services Immunization Program. In 2001, the rate was 50.4 percent. Arizona is above the national

average in some areas, including children having the recommended doses of DTap, polio, Hep B, and Hep A (hepatitis A). But there are obstacles keeping families from getting their shots, Lewis said. Because there are so many vaccines, sometimes parents find it hard to pay for them all or just keep up with the shot records, she said. School-age children in Arizona are required to have a set number of vaccines prior to the first day of school. Schools can help students transferring from another state get shot records. Some school districts refer families to local clinics. The Chandler Unified School District allows families to sign permission slips for school nurses to administer vaccines. The law does allow exemptions for ``medical reasons, laboratory evidence of immunity and personal beliefs.'' If a family signs a waiver, and a communicable disease is making the rounds on a campus, the school can ask the parents to keep their child at home, said Kathy Bareiss, spokeswoman for the Mesa Unified School District. -AP

WASHINGTON: Federal health advisers have said a government proposal to curb misuse of powerful painkillers does not go far enough to fix a problem linked to hundreds of fatal overdoses annually. The Food and Drug Administration summoned a panel of 35 outside experts to review its plan to reduce the misuse and abuse of long-acting pain relievers. The agency's plan consists mainly of educating doctors and patients about appropriate use of the drugs. But the FDA panel voted 25-10 to reject the agency's proposal, saying more requirements and training are needed for health professionals who prescribe the drugs. The government's proposal would apply to extended release versions of opioid narcotics like morphine, oxycodone and methadone. In one key disagreement with the FDA, panelists said doctors who prescribe opioids should be required to undergo training. The FDA suggested in its briefing that making such training mandatory could be overly burdensome, since the drugs are prescribed by thou-

sands of physicians across the US. Panelists also questioned whether the FDA's so-called ``risk evaluation and mitigation strategy,'' or REMS, would have any significant impact on the epidemic of opioid abuse, which is responsible for more fatal overdoses each year than heroin and cocaine combined. Dr. John Jenkins, the director of

the FDA panel voted 2510 to reject the agency's proposal, saying more requirements and training are needed for health professionals who prescribe the drugs the FDA's office of new drugs, said the agency's plan was designed to address legitimate use of the drugs, not deliberate abuse. ``We freely acknowledged that the REMS cannot address the entire scope of the problems for society on prescription drug misuse and abuse,'' Jenkins told reporters in a post-meeting news conference. -AP

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August 6, 2010

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Texas freshmen need vaccine before moving in dorms AUSTIN, Texas: Thousands of freshmen and new students flocking to Texas colleges for the start of classes next month must first get the vaccine against often fatal bacterial meningitis before they'll be allowed to move into campus dorms. The state law requiring the vaccine for all new students who live on campus, including those at private universities, went into effect on Jan. 1, but the fall semester will bring the first large wave of new students to campuses since the law went into effect. Texas is among about a dozen states that now require the vaccine. Previous attempts to require the vaccine failed until 2009 when state lawmakers were lobbied by the family of University of Texas student Jamie Schanbaum, who became infected as a sophomore in November 2008. Schanbaum had to have both legs amputated below her knees and lost most of

her fingers. ``It is a dangerous infection,'' said Dr. Donald Murphrey, an infectious disease specialist at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth. ``We know kids (who get sick) are going to be in the intensive care unit. They may lose fingers and toes. They may lose limbs. They may have strokes. They may have brain damage.'' Experts say that the close quarters of dorm life put college students at a higher risk than most of catching the disease, which spreads through coughing, sneezing, sharing drinks or utensils, kissing and other close contact. Texas students will be required to provide their shot record 10 days before they can move into dorms. Schanbaum started feeling ill while visiting a friend's apartment. She began vomiting and started having pain in her feet that quickly got so bad she couldn't walk. ``I was in an insane amount of pain,'' said Schanbaum, now

walks using prosthetics and has returned to class. ``I was fully able bodied,'' she said, noting that people sometimes stare at her in public now. ``What can you do, get an invisibility cloak?'' Texas is the largest state to

Once someone is infected, the disease spreads rapidly through the body, with early symptoms similar to the flu, and can be fatal within 24 hours, Murphrey said make the bacterial meningitis vaccine a requirement, though most states require college students to at least be given educational materials about the threat of the disease. Texas also began last year requiring schoolchildren to get the

Ind. set to approve pesticide rules for schools INDIANAPOLIS: New rules intended to protect Indiana's schoolchildren from exposure to pesticides that can cause allergic reactions and other health woes are nearing state approval after a nearly decade-old voluntary pesticide-control effort proved inadequate. The mandatory rules, including barring schools from applying pesticides when children are present, have been pushed by activists who worry about the chemicals' impact on youth. Jodi Perras, executive director of Improving Kids' Environment, said it's common sense to limit pesticide and herbicide use in and around schools to protect children whose nervous systems, brains and bodies are still developing. Pesticides can interfere with a child's development, trigger asthma attacks and cause other respiratory problems, she said. And some of the pesticides and herbicides Indiana's schools use to kill insects, rodents and weeds contain suspected carcinogens. ``The idea is, 'Why expose kids to pesticides if it's not necessary?''' she said. The Indiana Pesticide Review Board, which tentatively approved the rules in May, will hold a public hearing Aug. 2 on the proposals and may vote on final approval Sept. 2. If approved, the rules covering both public and private schools

could be in place by early 2011, said Dave Scott, pesticide administrator for the Indiana state chemist's office. He said the board and the chemist's office drafted guidelines in 2001 after school officials convinced state lawmakers not to pass mandatory rules. ``They said, `Don't make it a regulatory requirement. This is something that we'll all do voluntarily on our own,''' Scott said.

Schools would have to store pesticides in locked storage areas and in most cases provide advance notice of pesticide applications to parents Although most schools did voluntarily adopt pesticide policies in the intervening years, the chemist's office found that some schools were not following those policies. Others had not adopted any pesticide guidelines. ``We got a lot of good voluntary adoption, but adoption and implementation are two different things,'' Scott said. Aside from calling for only certified people to apply pesticide and herbicides at schools and doing so only when children are not

present, the rules also call for districts to keep records of pesticide applications. In addition, schools would have to store pesticides in locked storage areas and in most cases provide advance notice of pesticide applications to parents, staff and others who sign up for a notification registry. The rules also direct schools to use ``whenever practical and effective'' only pesticides that pose the lowest hazards to children. Scott said that after a year or so of compliance inspections and helping educate districts, those found in violation of the rules would face penalties starting at $250 for first offense, $500 for a second instance and $1,000 for each following violation. Julie Slavens, staff attorney of the Indiana School Boards Association, said the proposed mandatory rules aren't expected to produce significant new costs for schools. ``It's not an unduly burdensome mandate,'' she said. Perras said she hopes schools will go beyond the rules and adopt policies that focus on addressing the two primary causes of pest infestations _ food and shelter. One Indiana school district that's done that is Pike Township Schools on Indianapolis' northwest side, which adopted a strategy that uses pesticides as a last resort. -AP

vaccine starting in seventh grade. According to the Texas Medical Association, there about 1,500 cases of bacterial meningitis in the U.S. every year. More than 50 cases were diagnosed in Texas last year. Once someone is infected, the disease spreads rapidly through the body, with early symptoms similar to the flu, and can be fatal within 24 hours, Murphrey said. The required vaccine protects against four of the five common strains of the disease. College students, like younger students, can opt out of the vaccine if they file a note from a doctor saying it could harm their health or a formal objection for reasons of conscience or religious belief. According to Texas health officials, there were about 12,600 conscientious objections filed in the 2008-2009 school year for grades K-12, the most recent year for which data was available. At Texas A&M University, of-

ficials expect about 5,000 new students in the 39 campus residence halls this fall. Those students won't get their room assignments until they turn in their shot records, doctors notes or objection notices, said Jeff Wilson, Texas A&M's assistant director of residence life. Wilson said officials are getting about 300 notices a day by e-mail, fax or mail and he warned that students who don't take care of it now could be in for a shock if they come to campus without one. ``We will not release your room assignment until we get it,'' Wilson said. Schanbaum takes some comfort that the pain and suffering she endured helped pass the vaccine law that bears her name. ``It's exciting to know that I have such a powerful impact on the community,'' Schanbaum said. ``It's exciting to know that I'm saving lives, whether they know it or not.'' -AP

Missouri switching to deductibles for health plan JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.: Missouri employees and retirees soon may have to pay more out of their pockets for health care a result of state budget troubles that also have led to frozen wages and pension changes. The board of the Missouri Consolidated Health Care Plan approved changes this week that will switch people from a copy to a deductible model for their health insurance, beginning Jan. 1. About 100,000 state employees, retirees and their families are covered under the health plans. Most participants now have co-payment plans in which they pay a flat amount such as $25 for a doctor's visit or $100 for an emergency room visit _ and the state health care plan picks up the rest. But that option will end, and participants will have to choose one of several deductible insurance plans. Under one option, employees would have to cover their first $600 of medical bills each year, then would be responsible for 10 percent of their additional medical costs until they reach a maximum total out-of-pocket expense of $1,500, after which the state plan would cover the rest. For family coverage, that deductible would be $1,200, and the maximum total out-of-pocket expense would be $3,000. Under another option, employees willing to pay higher monthly premiums could have a deductible

of $300 and a maximum out-ofpocket expense of $1,200. Family coverage for that plan would carry a $600 deductible and maximum out-of-pocket expense of $2,400. Richard Bowles, the executive director of the Missouri Consolidated Health Care Plan, said changes had to be made because the state could no longer afford the current health plans. ``It's a matter of how much money the state has to subsidize

Under one option, employees would have to cover their first $600 of medical bills each year, then would be responsible for 10 percent of their additional medical costs the health care,'' Bowles told the Jefferson City News Tribune. ``Right now, the state has less money the tax revenues are down. Everything's down.'' The Missouri Consolidated Health Care Plan received $435 million from the state during the 2010 fiscal year that ended June 30, state budget director Linda Luebbering said. The agency had requested a budget increase to $446 million for the 2011 budget that began July 1. But lawmakers instead cut its budget to $420 million, Luebbering said. -AP

In Brief Detained illegals can be found through Web tool WASHINGTON: Federal officials say they are making it easier for families and attorneys to find people held in 250 immigration detention facilities around the United States. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has created a search tool on its website similar to one used by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Searchers can look by name or so-called ``alien'' numbers given to people who immigrate to the United States or end up in immigration custody. Some 30,000 people a day are in immigration custody. ICE has its own facilities but also contracts with local law enforcement agencies for bed space in local and state jails and prisons. -AP

Ark. man pleads guilty to illegal immigrant charge HARRISON, Ark.: The owner of a Mountain Home restaurant has pleaded guilt to hiring and concealing illegal immigrants. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Plumlee says 46-year-old Sen Chen of Mountain Home pleaded guilty in federal court in Harrison. Plumlee says Chen hired and housed 10 illegal immigrants to work for his Chen's Gardens restaurant. The prosecutor says the immigrants include eight Chinese nationals and two Mexican nationals. Plumlee said Chen faces up to five years in prison and $250,000 in fines when he's sentenced in about 60 days. -AP

Hawaii limits immigration services HONOLULU: Fewer immigration services will be available while Honolulu's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office moves to a new location. Customers will still be able to go online to reserve times to meet with an immigration officer, but fewer appointments will be available. The agency is moving to a new location that has more space for interview rooms, an application support center and naturalization ceremonies. The move is expected to be completed in early August. The Honolulu Field Office serves the entire state of Hawaii. -AP

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New Hayworth ad slams McCain for immigration bill PHOENIX: A new television ad portrays Arizona Sen. John McCain as a supporter of amnesty for illegal immigrants and links him to President Barack Obama. -AP

Arizona law comes after years of mounting anger PHOENIX: As the days tick down until the Arizona immigration law takes effect, the state stands as a monument to the anger over illegal immigration that is present in so many places. The anger has been simmering for years, and erupted into a fullblown fury with the murder of a prominent rancher on the border earlier this year. The killing became a powerful rallying cry for immigration reform and the sweeping new law was the result. But it does not tell the whole story about how Arizona got to this point. Turn on the evening news in Arizona and some report reflecting the state's battle with illegal immigration will likely flash across the screen. A drop house crammed with illegal border-crossers smack in the middle of a suburban neighbor-

hood. Traffic patrols and workplace raids that net the arrest of dozens of illegal immigrants, often in heavily Hispanic communities. Politicians speaking venomously about border violence and the leech of immigration costs on the state treasury. Along the streets, Arizonans see day laborers near Wal-Mart and

checking water lines on his property near the border. Authorities believe - but have never produced substantive proof - that an illegal immigrant, likely a scout for drug smugglers, was to blame. Almost immediately Krentz came to symbolize what's at stake with illegal immigration. Politicians quickly

The anger has been simmering for years, and erupted into a full-blown fury with the murder of a prominent rancher on the border earlier this year. The killing became a powerful rallying cry Home Depot parking lots, waiting for work. In some Phoenix-area neighborhoods, Spanish is so predominant both in spoken word and signage that residents complain they feel like they're in a foreign country. Then rancher Robert Krentz was gunned down in March while

connected the dots, but everyday folks also spoke with anger and fear about the rancher's death. ``You can't ignore the damage and the costs to the taxpayers and the disrespect that comes with it and those who think they have a right to break our laws,'' says

Russell Pearce, the fiery state senator who wrote Arizona's new immigration law. Pearce, in fact, is the godfather of anti-illegal immigration sentiment in Arizona and author of many of the tough laws. He regularly depicts illegal immigration as an ``invasion.'' He can tick off the names of police officers killed or wounded by criminals in the country illegally. One of those names is that of his son, Maricopa County Sheriff's Deputy Sean Pearce, who survived a gunshot wound to the abdomen from an illegal immigrant in 2004 while serving a search warrant in a homicide case. That might explain Pearce's indefatigable effort against those entering the country illegally, but he says he held tough views before his son was shot. He insists that his frustration centers more broadly on the

The best perms in life are simple MYRIAM JAIDI

t is always fun to find a silver lining in immigration law, because as immigration lawyers and clients we play on a confusing field, with goal posts moving just as we are about to reach them. On a recent blog post (June 18, 2010), available at cyrusmehta.blogspot.com/, my esteemed colleague Cora-Ann Pestaina discussed a silver lining in the inconsistent standards established by the agencies with which immigration lawyers and their clients are required to engage - specifically DOL and USCIS. She discussed how these inconsistent standards may resuscitate an I-140 where something has gone wrong. In the present article, we are trying to find the silver lining in the dark cloud over the labor certification process posed by a BALCA case that has narrowed the landscape of alternative job requirements: Matter of Globalnet Management LLC, 2009PER-00110 ("Globalnet"). The labor certification pro-

cess, or PERM as it is lovingly called, is replete with potential pitfalls if an employer does not define the requirements for a position just so and in accordance with the DOL's standards. Using alternative requirements can be even more treacherous if the employer is seeking to express its actual minimum job require-

ativity may lead to a denial of the case based on assertions of "tailoring" and "restrictive" requirements. Globalnet was one such case. At issue in Globalnet was a labor certification filed by an employer presenting the following alternative requirements for the sponsored position: Bachelor's plus 2 years of experience or 14 years of experience.

The labor certification process, or PERM as it is lovingly called, is replete with potential pitfalls if an employer does not define the requirements for a position just so and in accordance with the DOL's standards ments creatively, or to try to make the requirement consistent with the equivalency definition under the H-1B rules, in recognition of the different paths, educational and/or experiential, individuals can take to qualify for a position. These alternatives may allow people with untraditional backgrounds to have a go at a job and a green card. However, too much cre-

Under the 3 to 1 rule from the H-1B context (see 8 CFR 214.2(h)(4)(iii)(D)(5)), 14 years of experience is equivalent to a Bachelor's plus 2 years of experience. BALCA agreed with the Certifying Officer that these were not equivalent because the H-1B equivalency rule cannot be applied to labor certifications, and the only proper measure to use is Spe-

cific Vocational Preparation (SVP). SVP refers to "the amount of lapsed time required by a typical worker to learn the techniques, acquire the information, and develop the facility needed for average performance in a specific job-worker situation." The SVP scale uses levels and attending years of experience and corresponds to the DOL's Job Zones. Most professional positions for which labor certifications are filed fall within Job Zones 4 and 5, which correspond to SVP levels 7 and 8 or 9, respectively. That BALCA chose SVP as the proper measure in Globalnet is useful to the extent that it provides clear parameters. It is not helpful in light of the inconsistent standards extant in other contexts (H-1B; I-140), and not helpful in light of the myriad possible ways to obtain the experience that reasonably prepares an individual to perform the duties of a particular job. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 47

India Post

Immigration Post

August 6, 2010

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Neb. city council votes to delay immigration law FREMONT, Neb.: A voter-approved ban on hiring and renting property to illegal immigrants was suspended by the Fremont City Council, less than two days before it was set to take effect in the eastern Nebraska city. Council members voted 8-0 to delay the ordinance that is being challenged by two federal lawsuits, saying the move will save the city money in legal costs that officials have said could average $1 million a year. About 100 people attended the meeting, including some who said the ordinance has already led to divisiveness. ``This law is not yet in effect, but it is increasing conflict and discrimination,'' Lesley Velez, 20, of Fremont told city council members. Terry Flanagan, a Fremont resident who supports the ban, said the council shouldn't second guess voters: ``The citizens of Fremont have spoken. We should not delay this,'' he said. The council narrowly rejected the ban in 2008, prompting supporters to gather enough signatures for the ballot measure. Voters approved the ban last month. But the city faces lawsuits from the American Civil Liberties Union and the Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund, which both asked a federal judge to temporarily block the ban from taking effect. After this vote, the ACLU of Nebraska said its attorneys and the city plan to use the hearing to ask the judge to block the ordinance pending a final court resolution. ``We're relieved that the Fre-

mont City Council will suspend this discriminatory ordinance while it's being litigated,'' Amy Miller, the ACLU of Nebraska's legal director, said in a statement. ``It was a responsible decision that will spare residents of Fremont from worrying about losing housing and jobs because of their appearance and accent pending a final resolution by the court.'' The ordinance has divided the community between those who say it makes up for what they call lax federal law enforcement and

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We're relieved that the Fremont City Council will suspend this discriminatory ordinance while it's being litigated,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Amy Miller, the ACLU of Nebraska's legal director, said in a statement others who argue it could fuel discrimination. Council members had insisted that any suspension would be aimed at saving money on the city's legal defense, but some ban supporters remained skeptical. ``They see it as another attempt by the city to block this ordinance,'' Jerry Hart, a Fremont resident who petitioned for the ballot measure, said ahead of the vote. City officials have estimated Fremont's costs of implementing the ordinance - including legal fees, employee overtime and improved computer software - would average $1 million a year.

Council president Scott Getzschman has said it's unclear how much money the city would save by suspending enforcement of the ordinance. He insisted the council is only trying limit legal costs, even if the savings are small. Betty Faux, 69, who owns a lake house just outside the 25,000-resident community, where dozens of homes along a main residential street flew American flags, said that's not a good enough argument. ``I think they should go ahead with it; especially since they've got somebody who will represent them for free,'' Faux said, referring to Kansas City, Kan.-based attorney Kris Kobach, who drafted the Fremont ordinance and has said he would represent Fremont free of charge to fight lawsuits filed over the ordinance. Kobach also helped write the Arizona law that directs officers to question people about their immigration status during the enforcement of other laws such as traffic stops and if there's a reasonable suspicion they're in the US illegally. Kobach told The Associated Press that if the council delayed implementation, it would mean fewer court hearings in the litigation process, making the process of hearing the lawsuits shorter and cheaper for the city. The ordinance has put Fremont on the list with Arizona and other places in the national debate over immigration regulations. The ACLU and the Mexican American Legal Defense & Education Fund say the Fremont ordinance amounts to discrimination. -AP

Immigration Post

August 6, 2010

India Post

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The best perms in life are simple Globalnet also does not provide reasonable guidance as to why the use of the 3 to 1 rule in that case resulted in a restrictive alternative; it merely asserts that it does. As Ron Wada notes, whether requiring 14 years of experience (using the H-1B 3 to 1 rule) as an alternative to a primary requirement of a Bachelor's plus 2 years of experience is restrictive or expansive of the potential applicant pool "depends on which end of the telescope one is looking through, and reveals more about the viewer's biases than the facts of the case." Ron Wada, The Nth Degree Issues and Case Studies in Degree Equivalency: Matter of Globalnet Management, 14 Bender's Immigration Bulletin 1409, 1411 (Nov. 15, 2009). To the person who does not have a Bachelor's, but has 14 years of experience, the alternative allows them to apply for the position, and seems to be expansive rather than restrictive. Thus, BALCA's restriction here appears arbitrary. It must be acknowledged, however, that incorporating the 3 to 1 rule into the SVP scale (by, for example, allowing 12 years of experience to stand in for a Bachelor's degree and therefore counting for 2 SVP years) would require a significant reworking of the concept behind the SVP scale, or at the very least incorporating an exception for this purpose. Such a change would make sense within the overall scheme of immigration law. Primary and alternative requirements for a position, if the labor certification is going to be successful, must be "substantially equivalent." (20 CFR 656.17(h)(4)(i)) There is no definition of that term, though cases like Globalnet provide an inkling of what might work, for now at least. But we don't get too much guidance, that would take the thrill (meaning stress) out of the labor certification process. And that would be boring. For example, in Matter of Agma Systems LLC, 2009-PER-00132, BALCA determined that the alternatives of a Master's plus 3 years and a Bachelor's plus 5 years, were not alternatives at all but rather "two sets of requirements that are essentially the same." BALCA did

not, as it was perhaps invited to do in Agma Systems, address the question of whether a Master's standing alone could be considered equivalent to a Bachelor's plus five years of progressively responsible experience, as they are in the I-140 context. See 8 CFR 204.5(k)(2). Given BALCA's strict application of the SVP scale in Globalnet, such a set up may not work (although the Master's alone would; as would the Bachelor's plus 5, standing alone) because it pits 4 years against 7 years, which results in 7 against 8 in SVP levels. But what do these cases do to alternatives that fall within the same SVP level, but are valued at different SVP years? For example, would a Master's plus 5 years of experience (SVP years = 4 + 5 = 9)

Simplification in a process wrought with hazards is something of a silver lining. Nevertheless, practitioners, their clients, and the process as a whole would be better served by coordination between the DOL and USCIS be deemed appropriately comparable to a Bachelor's plus 6 years of experience (SVP years = 2 + 6 = 8) because both formulations fall within SVP level 8, despite the fact that one amounts to 9 SVP years and the other to 8 SVP years. What matters more? That the SVP years be equivalent or that they fall in the same SVP level, or both? Globalnet does not provide clear guidance on this issue and seems to indicate that the overall SVP level is the key factor. Thus, whether you fit into SVP level 8 via alternatives of 8 or 9 years, such alternatives should be acceptable. However, some scholars, including Ron Wada, warn that the safest course would be to ensure that when using alternatives, they should match in all respects, SVP years and SVP levels. (Note that another concern is whether USCIS might reject an H-

1B extension for failure to comply with the H-1B equivalency rules, upon comparison with the related I-140 that relies on the DOL SVP formula. It seems that so long as the employer requires a Bachelor's or equivalent in each context, and the individual meets that requirement based on the equivalency relevant to that particular context, the case should pass muster. This expectation makes sense in light of the fact that in the PERM context, employers often, when faced with an inability to justify their "real world" requirements based on business necessity, will reduce their actual "real world" requirements to meet the DOL's definition of "actual minimum requirements" based on SVP.) So what might be the silver lining in Globalnet? It calls upon us to simplify our labor certifications, and simplicity makes life easier. It compels us to determine the minimum requirements and avoid alternatives where possible, unless they are "pure" alternatives such as those blessed by BALCA in Agma Systems. Of course, the silver lining is frayed here and there because if we follow the simple approach and require simply 6 years of experience for an EB-3 skilled worker case, would a Bachelor's degree holder with 4 years of experience know that s/he can apply for the job and potentially qualify? BALCA's chosen framework seems to work against the labor certification mantra from Kellogg: be expansive not restrictive. Simplification in a process wrought with hazards is something of a silver lining. Nevertheless, practitioners, their clients, and the process as a whole would be better served by coordination between the DOL and USCIS to achieve consistency on the equivalency question, especially since the USCIS formula for advanced degree equivalency in 8 CFR> 204.5(k)(2) (Master's = Bachelor's plus 5 years of progressively responsible experience) simply does not square with the SVP levels. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

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Philosophy

August 6, 2010

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis eople pray for many different things. Pray can be a form of desire. We pray for material comforts or release from physical pain. However prayer can be more than just praying for the satisfaction of our material needs. The highest prayer is merely to become one with the highest spiritual realization. There is a story of two great Spiritual figures, Sri Ramakrishna and his beloved disciple Swami Vivekananda. Due to the death of his father Swami Vivekananda's family were living in extreme poverty; his mother started to criticize Vivekananda, saying why did he spend his time praying to God when God could not even provide for the family's basic needs. Vivekananda felt cut to the bone, so he went to his Spiritual Master Sri Ramakrishna and explained his family's dire financial predicaments. Sri Ramakrishna compassionately replied to Vivekananda and said if he went to the Temple of Mother Kali and prayed for the boon of financial wealth all his family's financial problems would be solved. Encouraged by his master's promise Vivekananda went to the temple of Mother Kali to pray for money. However Vivekananda was a seeker of the highest order. His inner nature yearned for God. When he entered the temple of the Mother, Vivekananda became absorbed in the spiritual vibrations of

the Temple. He felt his consciousness soar as he became enamored of the bliss of the Mother. In such an exalted spiritual state Vivekananda forgot his desire for financial freedom. His only prayer was "O Mother, please give me Jnana (wisdom) and Bhakti (devotion)." After praying and meditating Vivekananda returned to his Master and told him he had forgotten to pray for money in the Presence of Kali. Ramakrishna smiled and ad-

vised him to go back into the temple but this time to pray for money. Vivekananda returned but again he became so absorbed in his meditation that he could not bring himself to ask for money. Three times Ramakrishna sent Vivekananda into the temple to pray but each time Vivekananda couldn't bring himself to pray for money. Eventually Ramakrishna com-

mind often doesn't know the best thing to pray for. On many occasions we feel that if our desires for more money and wealth can be fulfilled, all our problems will be solved. However no matter how much money we may have we will never attain lasting satisfaction. Real happiness comes from our oneness with God. When we attain oneness with God everything else

Vivekananda by saying he would be able to use these powers to help others. Vivekananda only replies will this help me realize God. Ramakrishna replied it wouldn't and so Vivekananda turned down the opportunity to gain occult powers. It is brings to mind the immortal quote of the Upanishads What shall I do with the things That cannot make me immortal?

would open the wallet many times and gaze at the picture. All tiredness vanished and I would resume my work with enthusiasm. Then came the birth of my first child. What a joy I experienced when I became a father! I would eagerly rush home after work to play with my little baby. Needless to say, my wife's picture had already made way for the child's. The old man paused. Wiping his tearful eyes, he looked around

not know what awaits me in future. Everything I loved, everything I considered my own, has left me. A picture of Lord Krishna now occupies the place in my wallet. I know He will never leave me. I wish now that I had kept HIS picture with me right from the beginning! He alone is true; all others are just passing shadows. Sri Sarada Devi, the holy mother, says: Don't be afraid my child, these earthly ties are transitory. Today they seem to be the

From other sources: Dhanaani Bhoomau Pashvascha Goshthe Bharyaa Gruh Dwaare Swajan Smashaane Dehschitaayaam Parlokmaarge Karmaanu Go Gacchati Jeev Ek Your wealth will remain on earth; your cattle will remain in the stables, Your wife will come till the entrance door, your relatives and friends will come till the

nce an old man was traveling by train on a pilgrim age to Brindavan. At night, whilst he was asleep, his wallet fell from his pocket. A copassenger found it the next morning and enquired as to whom the wallet belonged. The old man said it was his. A picture of Sri Krishna inside the wallet was proof that the wallet really belonged to him. The old man then began to relate the story of the wallet. He soon had a group of eager listeners around him. Lifting up the purse for all to see, the old man said: This purse has a long history behind it. My father gave it to me years ago when I was a mere schoolboy. I kept my little pocket money in it and also a photograph of my parents. Years passed. I grew up and began studying at university. Like every youth, I became conscious of my appearance. I replaced my parents' photograph with that of my own and I would look at it often. I had become my own admirer. Then came marriage. Self-admiration gave way to the consciousness of a family. Out went my own picture and I replaced it with that of my wife's. During the day I

passionately said he would pray on his disciple's behalf. He would pray that his family would always have enough to pay for the basic essentials of life. After this his family's dire financial hardship was removed, although they never experience material prosperity. Vivekananda was a great seeker, who eventually became a spiritual Master in his own right. This story is illustrative of how the human

seems unimportant The highest prayer uttered by Jesus Christ was "Not my will but thine be done" "Through this prayer Christ surrendered his personal will to the will of God. Christ knew that our human prayers might not be in our best interest, the greatest prayer is merely to become with God. Later Sri Ramakrishna offered Vivekananda all his occult powers. Ramakrishna even tempted

What should we pray for?

Swami Vivekananda

In such an exalted spiritual state Vivekananda forgot his desire for financial freedom. His only prayer was â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;O Mother, please give me Jnana (wisdom) and Bhakti (devotion)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Sri Ramakrishna

Journey of life through a wallet

Lord Krishna

and said in a sad voice: Friends, my parents passed away long ago. My wife too died five years ago. My son- my only son- is now married. He is too busy with his career and his family. He has no time for me. I now stand on the brink of death. I do

Your wealth will remain on earth; your cattle will remain in the stables, Your wife will come till the entrance door, your relatives and friends will come till the cremation ground be-all and end-all of life, and tomorrow they vanish. Your real tie is with God. God is one's very own. It is the eternal relationship. He is ever looking after you. Call on the Lord who pervades the entire universe. He will shower His blessings upon you.

cremation ground, your body will accompany you till the funeral pyre, but on the way beyond this life only your Karmas will accompany you. From 'Dipika' A publication by Sri Ramakrishna Centre of South Africa

The ornament of the night is the moon, that of the day is the sun. The ornament of the devotee is devotion, that of devotion knowledge. The ornament of knowledge is meditation, that of meditation is renunciation. The ornament of renunciation, says Tulsi, is pure, unalloyed peace. -Sant Tulsidas There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness, thinking of others first... when you learn to live for others, they will live for you. -Paramahansa Yogananda If we can see it, there is greater joy in sorrow than in all the pleasures of this alluring world. -Sadhu Vaswani Forgiveness is the fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it. -Mark Twain You are searching for something without understanding that it is within you. Search within. This is a direct approach. Do not search for God outside. -Swami Rama If you don't break your ropes while you're alive do you think ghosts will do it after? -Kabir The thinking mind, the ego, the "me" are all the same. They are different names for the same thing, which is an illusion. -Ramesh Balsekar

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General Kayani: Implications of an extension ALI AHMED

he 'great man' school of his- Rawalpindi, endorsed no doubt Naming someone else would have tory would not consider it by Washington DC. Kayani's role helped in instilling in the Army a amiss that General Kayani in the strategic dialogue in Wash- sense of being a subordinate inhas got his long-expected exten- ington DC bears recall. stitution and also helped in buildsion as Pakistan Army Chief for The ruling civilian camp is cur- ing the Army's institutional another three years. Continuity in rently divided between political strength. the appointment, critical to the players and the best that the civilThe campaign against Islamism culminating war in the vicinity, is ians can do under the circumstance is a political project and can do withthe persuasive reason. is to take some credit, even if the out over burdening military personThe Pakistani Prime Minister, outcome was predictable. alities or choosing the military as Gilani, exercised his new found preThe positive side is that it helps solution. While individuals matter, rogatives under the 18th Amend- to strengthen the office of the as Kamal Ataturk's case suggests, ment. This will be taken as an exer- Prime Minister, who has the the experience with Musharraf procise of civil authority; thereby help- military's backing, as against that vides a counter-point. ing forge the principle of civil con- of the constitutionally disarmed Radicalism in Pakistan owes in trol over the military. While it is fu- President. Eventually, with prece- part to socio-economic causes, as tile to point out that this authority dent being reinforced, civilian au- also to a nationalist sentiment. The would have been greatly reinforced thority would gain primacy. answer lies in social and political in case a successor had been As a counter-factual case, if the reforms. While the latter is undernamed instead, this article argues civilian camp had shaken the boat way, the former, that could upset that the Kayani extenthe landed oligarchy, sion has an underside. are not in sight. The bright part is Cooption of the the message from this Army's leadership into expression of confithe elite keeps it as a dence in Kayani; that balancer and here the civilians do not see Kayani's lower middle him as a threat to the class background nascent civilian instihelps. Key areas like tutions. Instead, his education remain unbeing in charge is addressed adding to taken as a symbol of a radicalism, making the return to parliamentary Army appear as part of democracy, from the the solution. In the presidential flirtation battle of ideas, military under Musharraf. men have little space. WHOĂS THE BOSS: Kayani with the President and Since the polity needs Pakistan in placing its Prime Minister of Pakistan time to settle in, a geneggs in one basket, eral in control of his Bonapartist by selecting another Ziauddin, threatens its future. tendencies is preferable to chanc- then two outcomes could have The extension suggests that ing another one who may prove, been witnessed: Kayani leaving the military prong of strategy toas in the case of Ayub, Zia and with the grace of Karamat, or wards AfPak will continue as domiMusharraf earlier, to be less so in- Kayani staying on with the ruth- nant till the Petraeus review due clined. lessness of Musharraf. This is not late in the year. Whether herding Since stability in the Pakistani the Taliban to the table can be Army is crucial to Pakistan stavdone with the political prong of ing off 'failed state' status, chang- Since stability in the talks being outsourced to Karzai ing horses midstream does not Pakistani Army is at the Kabul conference, is debatmake sense. Kayani has proven crucial to Pakistan able. The implication is that the his credentials in conducting op- staving off 'failed state' war is set to continue; the deaderations in Swat and South lines of 2011 and the latest one of status, changing Waziristan against Islamists. 2014 being dead at inception. The operations were certainly horses midstream Kayani has reneged from the less duplicitous than those under does not make sense. progress made in the back chanthe Musharraf regime, even if the Kayani has proven his nel with India. The mid-July set of charge that they constituted much talks with India in Islamabad were smoke without fire sticks. At credentials in consabotaged by the Army using the present, retaining him points to ducting operations in Pakistani Foreign Minister. the next sector of operations be- Swat and South This indicates a hard-line in ing North Waziristan, in conjunc- Waziristan against store strengthened by the belief tion perhaps with the impending of a US backing. In a seeming refuIslamists US thrust into Kandahar. tation of India's Army Chief's indiLeadership turbulence, already cation of readiness with 'Cold witnessed in the US camp, could to say that there is no depth in Start', in a power presentation, do without replication on the Pa- Pakistani military leadership. Kayani said that Pakistan Army kistani side. With US trained There was also mention of ISI would remain 'India centric'. Kayani and Petraeus known to chief, Shuja Pasha, as a potential While wishing Kayani good share an understanding, there candidate. Like Kayani he had luck, his extension is not an unwould be little dissonance in been the ISI boss and the DGMO, mixed blessing. Obama's war of necessity in AfPak. besides also having strategic acuThe writer is Research Fellow, In any case, the extension was men evident from his having Institute for Defense Studies and more or less a dictate from headed the Staff College in Quetta. Analyses

India Post Kayani to Gilani

n the face of it, Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has given a three year extension to Army Chief Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani. What it actually amounts to is that the Gilani government has won a three-year reprieve from the Army. He and his President Asif Ali Zardari can now feel safe for three years, until the next general elections. Whatever else the Army may do in this while, it may not destabilize the civilian government. That was the main motive of the extension. What if Gilani had not given this extension to Kayani? The civilian government would have been in trouble. After Musharraf's high-handed rule, the Pakistani Army had become quite unpopular in Pakistan. So Kayani had to live down that image and lie low for a while. After the so-called successes in the Army operations in the terrorist-infested frontier areas of Pakistan, Kayani has been able to somewhat repair that image. But the civilian government, like the earlier ones, continues to lack effective control even in civilian governance matters. If Kayani had not been given extension, he would not exactly have organized a coup. But things would have been made so difficult for the civilian administration that they would have abdicated on their own. The present position also resembles an abdication as the writ of the civilian government runs in very few cases. Voices have been raised in India after this extension to Kayani that since the effective control in Pakistan lies with the Army; India should be talking to the Army to resolve Indo-Pak issues. Such a move would be welcomed by the Pak army. Only last year, Pakistan's ISI chief Shuja Pasha had proposed something on these lines in a meeting he had with the defense attaches of India in the Indian mission in Pakistan. But such a move had few takers in India where it is the practice to keep the Army in its place and not allow it to meddle in politics. Some media reports have accused Kayani of being responsible for a stalemate in the recent formal talks between the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan. The talks were believed to be going well when Kayani is said have met Prime Minister Gilani. When the talks resumed, the atmosphere totally changed and Pakistan took an unexpectedly stringent posture leading to the deadlock at the talks. What the extension to Kayani means for India is that the hawkish approach would continue and efforts to reduce hostility and to open the border to trade and traffic would suffer. Kayani is known to have made his antipathy to India known publicly. There is no guarantee that terrorism sponsored from Pakistan will end during the tenure of Kayani. The recent WikiLeaks disclosures reveal that the Pakistani army and the ISI have been supporting terrorist organizations throughout the period 2004-2009. In this period, General Kayani was the chief of the ISI for three years and army chief for a few months short of three years. He is therefore totally identified with this policy of using terrorism as a state policy both internationally and domestically. His continuance therefore proves that the civilian government is in sync with his approach. This position should suit Kayani. He is now the de facto ruler of Pakistan, the civilian government being just a faĂ§ade. Crucial strategic decisions are taken by him and the government of the day merely rubber stamps them. When even the US is dancing to his tunes, India cannot expect anything better. Manmohan Singh may continue harping on dialogue but Kayani would see to it that no dialogue with India succeeds and the Pakistani terrorism factory continues to run.

August 6, 2010

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