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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

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Friday, May 14, 2010 | Vol. 29, No. 20

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READ US ONLINE at www.indoamerican-news.com Published weekly from Houston, TX

Sukhwinder Singh Comes to Houston Despites delays in getting visa, Sukhwinder Singh comes to entertain Houston on May 22 at Arena Theater.

Listen to him live on 1230AM this Friday at 5pm.

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INSIDE

Walk Up Some Sweat, Meet a Few Hundred Friends

BUSINESS Tile Center USA Home Improvement Done Your Way Story on Pg 25

Jain Samaj Mourns Loss of Acharya Mahapragya Ji Story on Pg 6

Gujarati Drama “Bapuna Rajma Laher” Thrills Houstonians

Story on Pg 51

ARTS & CULTURE IAA Brings India Jazz Suites Live at Wortham Center Story on Pg 39

By Jawahar Malhotra

SUGAR LAND: The previous date had threatened a downpour and nothing happened, instead it turned out to be a beautiful day.

On this particular Sunday – Mother’s Day even – the weather was supposed to be glorious, instead it was overcast, slightly breezy and a little on the cool side.

But Mother Nature couldn’t have ordered it better for the over 300 people who turned out for the rescheduled annual Walkathon held this past Sunday, May 9 at Lost Creek Park and organized by the Indo American Charity Foundation. These were ideal conditions for the enthusiasts who had come to walk for a cause – raising funds for the charities that the IACF supports – as they took off down the 2K and 5K trail around the lake.

A few brought their dogs along, many came in families, and away they went chatting up a storm, working up a sweat and stopping by the two water stations along the way. “I went the whole way and I bet you it was like 5 miles,” puffed Anjali Jain who had her dog on a leash, the sweat glistening on her forehead. “You sure it wasn’t 5 miles?”

In the arbor area, the registration booths were busy with volunteers and the Directors of the IACF (all wearing eye-catching yellow polo shirts with logos) who helped those who came to write their con-

The Indo-American Charity Foundation held its annual Wallathon at the Lost Creek Park in Sugar Land this past Sunday. Over 300 people attended and participated in many activites. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra

tribution checks and gave them tshirts and caps emblazoned with the walkathon motif. Past Director Priti Singh egged the donors

on. “Aare yaar, just make that for $100 instead,” she smiled radiantly, as they obliged. They also got a chance to indulge in some

bagels and cream cheese, bananas and apples.

On the other side, five little entercontinued on page

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Houston Chapter of Save-A-Mother Raises $40,000 Bold Colors for Love, Life and Equality: Artist Zahra Ali’s Paintings on Display Story on Pg 39

Kites

in Theaters May 21

Houston Save A Mother Board Members At 2nd Annual Gala. (L-R) Shalini Bhargav, Girija Bhargav, Sushma Bhan , Poonam Tulsiani, Natesan Murthy,Veena Kaul (Chapter President), Shiban Ganju (SAM Founder), Ruchira Paul, Seema Kachru, Priti Singh and Sakina Ali.

HOUSTON: The two year old Houston Chapter of Save-AMother held an elegant fundraising gala, "Mera Gaon", on Friday, May 7 at Ashford Oaks, 2022 Wilcrest Drive, Houston. The event was attended by more than 200 people, for whom the idea of saving mothers dying daily due to maternal mortality in India, is closer to their heart.

Around $40,000 was raised at the event for the disadvantaged women in India, thanks to the generous donation of Houstonians.

A quarter of the world's total maternal deaths take place in India - the most in any country in the world. complete story on page

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

online edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

Indo American News • Friday, MaY 14 , 2010 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

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IACF Walkathon: Walk Up Some Sweat, Meet a Few Hundred Friends continued from page

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mosas and pakoras catered by Mumbai Spice restaurant and set on a table under the trees added to the picnic flair.

But the crowning moment came when 70s-something Vasu Sodhani took on the challenge and stood on his head for 10 minutes. “Com’on folks,” egged on emcee Hubert Vaz-Nayak, “who’ll support this headstand with a donation?” Many did, as they appreciated the effort, and dropped off over $1,000 in cash, with a matching $1,000 from community stalwart Jugal Malani.

For more information on the Indo American Charity Foundation, visit www.iacfhouston.com or call Bobby Singh at 832-766-0680. To apply for a $2,000 scholarship for graduating high school seniors, contact Rupa Iyer at iyerrupa@yahoo.com

prising girls had set up a lemonade stand that raised well over $100 in sales. Drashak Thacker and his wife Mona of Krishna Soundsprovided the sound system and music, Ketki from Krisbi Travel gave out Gatorade and other juices, Dr. Parmeswaran had his Bone Marrow registry booth and there was face painting and balloon pets at the other corner. To round it out, Radio Masti broadcast live from the event for some time and dropped off free plastic drink bottles.

The emphasis was definitely on enjoying the outdoors and camaraderie, with only brief speeches coming from Sugar Land Councilwoman Jacquie Chaumette who spoke briefly; Jim Lockwood, Director of the Child Advocates Ft. Bend Chapter Director, Amber Paaso, Coordinator with Ft. Bend County Women’s Shelter, Dr. Lakhsmi Parmeswaran a founder of Daya and IACF President Bobby Singh said a few words of thanks for the turnout and support, which at final tally was around $20,000.

The informality of the event gave it the liveliness of a giant picnic under the shady crepe myrtle trees, a welcome change from most other desi events. Warming up the crowd before the walk, Sangeeta Pasrija and Manisha Mehta led them with stretches set to Bollywood music. After the walk, sa-

Clockwise from top: The IACF Board members who attended; warm up exercises just before the walk got people limbered up; IACF Director Shahnaz Vadgama with a friend and volunteers at the t-shirts booth; Sugar Land Coucilwoman Jacquie Chaumette; Vasu Sodhani raised $1,000 with his 10-minute headstand as his wife Pratibha cheered on.

Photos: Jawahar Malhotra for more pictures, turn to page

By Jawahar Malhotra SUGAR LAND: The previous date had threatened a downpour and nothing happened, instead it turned out to be a beautiful day.

On this particular Sunday – Mother’s Day even – the weather was supposed to be glorious, instead it was overcast, slightly breezy and a little on the cool side.

But Mother Nature couldn’t have

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

Jain Samaj Mourns the Loss of Acharya Mahapragya Ji

Special Correspondent JAIPUR: Acharya Mahapragya, the 10th Acharya (sage) and supreme head of the Jain Swetambar Terapanth community, died following a cardiac arrest at Sardarshahar in Churu district of Rajasthan on Sunday. He was 90.

Acharya shree was resting in the afternoon at Terapanth Ashram in the town when he suffered a cardiac arrest. His body was cremated on Monday at Sardarshahar – the place where he gained monkhood and where he was staying for the past few days to deliver sermons.

Acharya Mahapragya was born on June 14, 1920 at Tamkor village in Jhunjhunu district. He headed the Jain Vishwa Bharati University at Ladnun and led the Anuvrat movement launched by his mentor and the then head of Swetambar Terapanth, Acharya Tulsi in 1949.

He was a great practitioner of meditation, spirituality, Mantras, Anekaant and non-violence and

wrote extensively on these subjects.

As a Jain monk, he always travelled on foot and took five major Mahavratas (vows) as a part of initiation into monkhood at the age of 10.

Acharya Mahapragya was known for a seven-yearlong “Ahimsa Yatra”, which he undertook to highlight the spiritual aspect of non-violence and spread the message of peace and harmony across the country.

He traversed over 10,000 km on foot, covering 2,400 villages, towns and cities, and addressed many public meetings during the yatra.

The journey began and ended at Sujangarh in

Rajasthan.

Acharyashree, who was consecrated as the 10 {+t} {+h} supreme head of Terapanth religious order at a public meeting in Delhi on February 5, 1995, formulated the now famous ‘Preksha’ meditation

system, comprising of Yogasana, Pranayam, Mantra and therapy, in 1970s.

Former Indian President S Radhakrishnan had termed Acharya Mahapragya as one of the two fine philosophers of modern India along with Swami Vivekananda.

President Pratibha Patil and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on Monday condoled the death of Acharya Mahapragya calling it an “irreparable loss” to the whole of India.

Patil called the 10th Acharya Mahapragya a “great sage and philosopher who gave a new direction to the Anuvrat movement and spread the message of peace and non-violence” across the country.

In a statement, Sonia Gandhi said the passing away of Acharya Mahapragya was not just an incalculable loss for the Jain community but also left a vacuum for Indian society. “He was a thinker of rare caliber, a personality with literary sensitivity, and a social guide,” she said.

Paying rich tributes to the Jain sage, the Congress chief said, “All his life, he strove to cultivate and propagate those values without which human civilization could

Indo American News • Friday, MaY 14 , 2010 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

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not have been imagined.”

Recalling her personal dialogue with him, Sonia Gandhi said Acharya Mahapragya was a symbol of non-violence. Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi termed him a “sage, savant, but above all, a philosopher whose spirituality transcended all religions”.

Acting Governor Shivraj Patil, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Assembly Speaker Deependra Singh Shekhawat have condoled the death of Acharya Mahpragya.

Prominent among the awards given to him during his lifetime were the Mother Teresa national award of peace (2005), Union Government’s communal harmony award (2004), Ambassador of Peace Award in London (2003), Lokmaharishi by Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (2003) and the Indira Gandhi National Integration Award (2002).

Acharya Shree not only touched but positively influenced the lives of millions of people in India and abroad and will continue to do so for many generations to come through the rich literature, tradition, and practices such as Preksha Meditation that he has left behind.

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

SOCIETY

online edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

IACCGH-UHD Partnership Develops Strong Connections HOUSTON: Through the efforts of key members and staff, the IndoAmerican Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston has played an instrumental role in developing strong connections in the business community for the students and faculty of UH-Downtown’s College of Business.

IACCGH and UHD personnel have identified several centers of interest, chiefly in entrepreneurship, supply chain management, and the business college’s educational alliance with enterprise software maker SAP. Another identified area of interest is UHD’s new Bachelor of Ap-

From Left: Swatantra Jain, Vinmar senior vice president, Hemant Goradia, president of Vinmar International Ltd., College of Business Dean Don Bates and Brij Kathuria, immediate past president of the Indo American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston.

UHD business dean Donald L. Bates, new to Houston starting in August 2005, made a point early in his tenure to meet IACCGH executive director Jagdip Ahluwalia at an IACCGH mixer.

One of the first key developments between IACCGH and UHD was creation of the IACCGH-Gopal Savjani scholarship program in July 2007. The six student recipients to date have been acknowledged at the IACCGH galas.

The student scholars also have contributed to the dynamic between IACCGH and UHD by volunteering for registration desk duties at the galas, and on occasion, the students have filled internship positions under Mondira Tangri in the IACCGH office.

A series of meetings between

Indo American News • Friday, MaY 14 , 2010 • Online Edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

plied Arts and Sciences in Applied Administration degree program.

Launching Fall 2010, this fouryear non-business degree is aimed at holders of two-year associate’s degrees in technical fields who aspire to supervisory and administrative positions.

The IACCGH-UHD relationship actually dates back to 2004 when former chamber member H.P. Bhagat hosted UHD staff at a Divali dinner that year. Subsequent leadership was provided

by Somesh Singh, Gopal Savjani, Brij Kathuria, Atul Varadhachary, Indira Vishnampet, and Pradeep Gokhale.

Considerable support was provided by and College of Business lecturer Dan Ghosh and dean’s representative Steve Sucher.

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

Sikh Association of Gurdwaras in Texas (SAGT) is Formed

By Dr. Tejendra Singh Gill HOUSTON: The idea to constitute a state level organization of Sikh religious institutions was conceived on the occasion of 2nd Sikh Day Parade held in Houston on November 22, 2008. A year later, the proposal was unanimously adopted by the Sikh Sangat assembled for the 3rd Sikh Day Parade held in Houston on October 17, 2009.

Several prominent Sikhs representing Sikh Gurdwaras across the State of Texas agreed in principle to undertake the arduous task of working out the details of the structure of the proposed organization. To get everyone on board and agree to a common format is not an easy task, especially because the constituent Gurdwaras are scattered all over the state, plus the fact that in a democratic set up, the people have the right to differ! Despite hurdles and a variety of constraints, history was made on March 27, 2010, when about 37 delegates representing their respective Gurdwara Managements met at the Breen Gurdwara Sahib, Houston, and passed several resolutions which would give final shape to the state level body. The spade work for this meeting had been done earlier by Dr. Kanwaljit Singh and Prof. Sukhchain Singh, who had put together the by-laws for the proposed organization.

This formally convened state level meeting was attended by: Dr. Harnek Singh Bains, Lakhvinder Kaur Bains, Gurjeet Kaur Nagra, Trilok Singh Budwal, and Mohini Budwal (Austin), Surinder Singh Gill and Gurmail Singh (Richardson, Dallas), Dr. Gurdarshan Singh Brar (Garland, Dallas), Hira Singh Chamdal, Sarvjit Singh Mand, Nachhatar Singh Legha, Tara Singh Grewal, Harbhajan Singh, Hardev Singh Mand, Gurcharan Singh, Aman Sidhu, Mohan Singh Grewal, and Bakshish Joshan (Breen Gurdwara, Houston), Dr. Kanwaljit Singh, Bhupinder Singh, Surinder Kaur Pinglia, Dr. Hardam Singh Azad, Prof. Sukhchain Singh, and Manohar Singh Mann (Sikh National Center, SNC, Houston), Charanjit Singh Sandhu, Jaswant Singh, Gurminder Singh, Prof.

Sampuran Singh, Jarnail Singh,

Kulwant Kaur, and Harcharan Singh (Sikh Center, Houston), Kabul Singh Batala and Naunihal Singh Brar (Nanaksar Gurdwara, Houston), Dr. Tejendra Singh Gill (GSSWH, Houston), Balwinder Singh Dhillon and Narinder Kaur Dhillon (San Antonio), and special invitee, Dr. Pritpal Singh (American Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee, AGPC, Los Angeles).

The meeting chaired by Prof.

Sampuran Singh, President, Sikh Center, started with preliminary welcoming remarks by the chair outlining the agenda to be discussed. Subsequently, Hira Singh Chamdal, President, Breen Gurdwara spoke about the need for a viable association of Sikh Gurdwaras, which will provide cohesiveness among the constituent entities.

Dr. Kanwaljit Singh, Secretary, SNC, gave a detailed explanation of the by-laws, emphasizing the fact that the proposed organization shall be an ‘umbrella organization’ which shall be made up of individual Sikh religious institutions like beads in a necklace! He made it clear that it would be far and beyond the scope of the proposed organization to interfere with the administrative machinery of the constituents, and that the activities of common interest having direct relevance to the Sikhs and Sikh Religion will be pursued in a coordinated manner.

Dr.Hardam Singh Azad spoke of his vast experience of Sikh socio-religious affairs in the United States, and gave several pieces of advice to the delegates to consider before making critical decisions.

Dr. Tejendra Singh Gill, Secretary, Gurdwara Sahib of SW Houston, motivated the participants to contribute their fair share of expertise and not focus on the position or title being given to perform a certain task. He highlighted the importance of organizational skills, transparency of financial and administrative records, and the commitment to the cause, which may impact the community in the long run.

Subsequent speakers included Surinder Singh Gill, President, Richardson Gurdwara, Dr. Harnek Singh Bains, President, Austin Gurdwara, Dr.Gurdarshan Singh

Dr.Tejendra Singh Gill teaches at the University of Houston (Central Campus), and is the Secretary for the Gurdwara Sahib of SW Houston.

Brar, President, Garland Gurdwara, who gave constructive suggestions to modify the by-laws to provide for a more effective functioning of the proposed organization. Thought provoking ideas were offered by Tara Singh Grewal (Breen Gurdwara), Charanjit Singh Sandhu (Sikh Center), Balwinder Singh Dhillon (San Antonio), Gurjeet Kaur (Austin), and Kabul Singh (Nanaksar Gurdwara).

After a brain storming session, the delegates met again this time to accomplish some if not all the goals of the meeting. The conten-

tious issue of nominating the officials was amicably resolved by unanimous agreement that two delegates from each of the constituent Gurdwara shall be a part of the ad hoc Coordination Committee until such time the officials are elected and/or nominated to the various bodies.

The initial task of strategic planning and effective communication was entrusted to Houston-based Hira Singh Chamdal (Breen), Dr. Tejendra Singh Gill (GSSWH) and Gurminder Singh (Sikh Center).

Dr. Gill requested the delegates to pick a name for the organization under which it would be registered with the Secretary of State, Texas. By a majority decision the organization was named the Sikh Association of Gurdwaras in Texas (SAGT). The Certificate of Formation under this name as a domestic non-profit organization has since been received from the Secretary of State.

Finally, the delegates agreed to meet at Dallas on May 8 to fine tune the by-laws and plan the programs to be implemented by the SAGT. The second meeting of SAGT was held at Gurdwara Singh Sabha, Richardson, Dallas, under the chairmanship of the President of the Gurdwara, Surinder Singh

Gill. More than 45 Sikh representatives, including special invitees, attended the Dallas meeting.

The welcoming remarks were followed by short speeches by Prof. Sampuran Singh, Dr.Hardam Singh Azad, Dr. Kanwaljit Singh (on SAGT by-laws), Dr. Gurdarshan Singh Brar, Dr. Harbans Lal, Dr. Tejendra Singh Gill (on SAGT procedures and protocols), Kabul Singh Batala, Jarnail Singh, Sukhjit Singh Sidhu, and Shamsher Singh.

The issue of electing and/or nominating the officials for various committees was deferred as the delegates felt that more time is needed to evaluate the process.

Meantime, the SAGT was authorized to organize a state level religious function at one of the constituent entities in the month of June.

The next meeting of the SAGT will be scheduled sometime in July. Moving forward towards making SAGT a viable state level organization, the three Houston-based delegates, Hira Singh Chamdal, Dr.Tejendra Singh Gill and Gurminder Singh were authorized to perform all administrative and financial duties, which may be necessary for the SAGT to execute its programs as provided for in the by-laws.

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Hinduism Summit Awakens Chicagoans to Hindu Concepts and Issues

By Nand Kapoor CHICAGO: On Saturday, 24th April 2010 (Adhik Vaishakh Shukla Ekadashi 5112 as per Hindu calendar) the Hindu temple auditorium at Lemont reverberated with the auspicious sounds of conch blowing and Vedic recitations, commencing the much awaited Hinduism Summit (Hindu Dharmasabha). Eminent speakers, Dr. Richard Benkin of Forcefield, Dr. Sanjay Mehrotra of Geeta Mandir,

Shri. Kalyan Vishwanathan of Sanatana Dharma Foundation (Dallas) were awarded the ‘Vishwa Hindu Ratna’ for selfless service to Hinduism. Swami Varadananda of Vivekananda Vedanta Society blessed the Summit with His presence. The Swami was honoured duly at the hands of Shri. Prasad Yelamanchi of Global Hindu Heritage Foundation, among other honoraries, namely the Hindu temple president L Bhima Reddy,

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Shrinarayan Chandak of Global Media Forum, Madhu Patel and A. V. L. Narsimharao.

The Summit had around 80 people attending in person while another 80 from around the world attended its live webcast online.

They listened raptly as Dr. Mehrotra opened the presentations, highlighting the universal nature of the Bhagavad Gita; he emphasized that preserving, promoting and practicing Dharma is everyone’s responsibility. Shri. Vishwanathan followed with a thought provoking presentation regarding the challenges and opportunities in maintaining the Hindu identity; he proposed creating shared spaces for academia, media, leadership, networking and youth. Smt. Kudtarkar used SSRF’s spiritual research video footage showing the power of Saints and subtle negative forces, and inspired the

listeners to consider spiritual measures in resolving issues facing the Hindu community. Shri. Gadoya spoke passionately about the need to stop rampant denigration of Hinduism and proposed practical methods to learn about denigration and stop it. Dr. Benkin brought to light the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh; he made a resounding call to support his efforts to urge US leaders to pressure the Bangladesh government, in the hope that the victims do not become mere statistics. Smt. Shinde concluded the presentations with emphasis on Hinduism education and spiritual measures to overcome issues facing the Hindu community and to experience firsthand the unique science underlying Hinduism concepts and practices.

The following resolutions were passed at the Hinduism Summit and will be submitted to the Indian

Embassy and the American government: ·The Bangladeshi government should be urged to stop the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh ! · Hinduism should be recognized as a major religion in America as are others like Christianity, Islam, Judaism and Buddhism !

The attending Hindus vowed to create awareness about the plight of Bangladesh’s Hindus, to peacefully but surely protest every denigration of Hinduism, to not support art, products or media that denigrate Hindus’ revered concepts, and to take and impart Hinduism education. The Hinduism Summit concluded with the speakers answering questions from the members of the press and the attendees, on the direction ahead to understand, live and preserve Hinduism, through periodic meetings and action points.

Hindus of Greater Houston to Offer 7-Day Course on Gita Essentials for Children and Their Parents HOUSTON: The Hindus of Greater Houston will offer a 7-day course on the Gita for youth and adults entitled “Essentials of the Gita for Children & Their Parents”. The course will take place in Houston during the first week of this year’s summer school break, June 6-12, 2010. Taking advantage of the school break, the course will have two parallel classes - one for youth, and one for adults, and is scheduled in the evenings for 1 ½ hours. The course will focus on the most important topics of the Gita chapter by chapter. One chapter will be covered each day.

Swami Nikhilanandji, a disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, will present the course.

Past participants in other cities like Dallas, New York and Washington, D.C. have appreciated the format of the course, which allows youth and adults to learn at their own level. Each day, after the introduction and opening prayer, the group is divided into adult and youth sections. The youth receive their instruction first, while the adults begin their education in the media room by watching a special video speech by Kripaluji Maharaj on a related topic. Then the groups switch, and while the adults receive their instruction, the youth review their knowledge by playing a game of Jeopardy with questions crafted around the lessons of that day. The class concludes with both groups coming together for a final question and answer and the arti. Both youth and adults receive worksheets for each chapter of the Gita, which help them to remember the most important points.Swami Nikhilanandji explains what makes this Gita class unique. “In this course, participants

learn the most important concepts of each chapter and gain an overall understanding of what the Gita is and how its philosophy is important in our lives.

This overview of the primary teachings of the Gita is more important than the memorization or detailed study of individual verses, and sets this course apart from other Gita classes.”

Many adults find clarity for the first time, even after a lifelong study of the Gita. The Gita is one of the most popular Hindu scriptures, as well as one of the most concise, being only 700 verses, divided into 18 chapters. Many people read or study the Gita every day, but although they find consolense and inspiration in its verses, they are unable to clearly understand its philosophy. Swami Nikhilanandji, who resides at JKP Barsana Dham (the U.S. ashram of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj), uses the teachings of Shree Kripaluji Maharaj to help people understand the essence of the Gita and to clear confusions and answer questions that may have persisted for years.

The location of the program is Keshav Smruti, Westhollow Parkway, Houston, TX 77082. The timings are as follows: Sunday, June 6 4:00-6:00 pm; Monday-Saturday, June 7-12 7:00-8:30 pm. Dinner prasad is served each evening following the program. The course is offered free of charge. For more information and to register, call (281) 531-4332 or visit www.HindusofHouston.org/register.

Take advantage of this year’s summer school break to educate your kids on the Gita and the basics of Hinduism, and to increase your own understanding of the philosophy of Hinduism.

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

Save-A-Mother Gala Raises $40, 000 to Benefit Women in India

By Seema Kachru HOUSTON: The Houston Chapter of Save- A- Mother held an elegant fundraising gala, “Mera Gaon”, on Friday, May 7 at Ashford Oaks in Houston. The event was attended by more than 200 people, for whom the issue of saving mothers dying daily due to maternal mortality in India, is closer to their heart.Approximately $40,000 was raised at the event for the disadvantaged women in India.

“Despite the fact that we all have moved in life and enjoy secure and healthy lifestyle, marvels of technology, rich nutritional diets, but back home in India, women still face a silent tragedy of death each time they give life a chance. For most of us having a baby is a moment that brings tears of joy and happiness, but for these women there are tears in their eyes too--not of joy of joy but mourning. The reason--- a lack of health facilities coupled with the lower social status of the women. Thus violating basic human rights, as it is the right of every woman to give birth without any crisis”, said Seema Kachru, Houston-based PTI Foreign Correspondent and spokesperson for Save A Mother Organization. The program of the evening commenced with an informal meet and greet session in the foyer. The formal line up of the

President Veena Kaul thanks guests for their contributions.

evening began with basic welcome and presentation enabling the guests, mostly business and community leaders and individual philanthropists, to learn about SAM’s accomplishments and how well their donations are being used.

Slide presentation of the program was presented by Dr Shiban Ganju, Founder Save A Mother Organization and his Team Rima Shah & Rahul Singhal, who had flown in for the event from the Chicago, SAM Headquarter.

President of the Houston Chapter Veena Kaul, thanked the indi-

vidual donors and organizational sponsors for their support to the organization. It was followed by an interesting live auction and dazzling Fashions Show of designs by Tory Burch, modeled by Anuva Kachru, Nida Khurshid, Nara Lakhani, Apeksha Rao, Meghan Rao, Megha Tejpal and Ziya Verjee.

The program ended with a live music by DJ Yogi Goel and his enthusiastic team. Emcee for the event was ever captivating Jay Aiyer.Bombay Brasserie restaurant. catered for the program.

HMM Celebrates Maharashtra Din

By Madhu Nimkar HOUSTON: Houston Maharashtra Mandal celebrated ‘Maharashtra Din’ and ‘Vasantotsav’ with the musical event “Phite Andhaarache Jaale” by music maestro Shri Shridhar Phadke on April 24, 2010 at Cross Point Community Church.

The event started with a very famous song “Shramik Ho Ghya Ithe Vishranti”, which was originally sung by his legend father Late Shri Sudhir Phadke. The song was dedicated to the people who worked hard for the event preparation. Then he presented verious songs like “Kaahi Bolayache Aahe, Jai Sharade, Phite Andhaarache Jaale, Sakhi Mang Jhalya Taaraka, Toch Chandrama Nabhat, Dhoondi Phulaana, Onkar Swaroopa, Ne majasi Ne and Shri Sridhar Phadke presented verious songs like “Kaahi Bolayache Aahe, Jai many more...”.

Sharade, Phite Andhaarache Jaale, Sakhi Shri Shridhar Phadke shared some unforgettable mo- Mang Jhalya Taaraka, Toch Chandrama ments of his legend father Shri Sudhir Phadke, and some Nabhat, Dhoondi Phulaana, Onkar Swaroopa, touching memories as a music composer during program. Ne majasi Ne and many more...”.

It was worth spending hours for such a great show.

“Phite Andhaarache Jaale” event was truely a celestial experience by the efforts of Houston Maharashtra Mandal for the Maharashtrians in Houston.

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A Winning Essay Draws IACF Financial Support

By Jawahar Malhotra HOUSTON: In its 18th annual citywide essay contest open to area high schoolers, the City of Houston held a presentation ceremony last Thursday, May 6 at the downtown Central Library to announce the winning essayists. The theme of the essay, sponsored by the Public Service Recognition Week, was what the students would do if they were head of a city department. The essays

winning essay on what he would do if he were a recycling manager.

The two-hour ceremony was attended by the parents and teachers of the students, as well as the awarders and the library officials and staff. The program opened with welcome remarks by Tameka Hardison with the Central Library, who introduced Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson, the Director of the Library System since her appointment by former Mayor

David Brownman, a graduating senior from Memorial High School took home $2,000 scholarship from Indo-American Charity Foundation with his winning essay on what he would do if he were a recycling manager. IACF President Bobby Singh delivered the check as Tameka Hardison (seated) with the Central Library, who introduced Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson, the Director of the Library System looked on.

could be 500 words or less.

Of the nearly 300 essays that were sent in, 21 made the first cut and then the top 5 were chosen. The winners were Christa Mahlobo, Maxwell Tran and Ashley Nguyen of Michael E. DeBakey High School for the Health Professions; Ellen Liu of James E. Taylor High School in Katy and David Brownman of Memorial High School.

In fifth place Christa Mahlobo won a $300 scholarship from Fiesta Mart; in fourth place Maxwell Tran won $400 scholarship from UnitedHealthcare; in third place, Ellen Liu won $600 scholarship from BlueCross BlueShield of Texas. The second place went to Ashley Nguyen who won $1,000 scholarship from W.J. Alexander & Associates. And in first place, David Brownman took home $2,000 scholarship from IndoAmerican Charity Foundation with his

Bill White in 2005. She is the 6th Director in the Library’s 101 year history.

Brown was appreciative of the keen interest shown in the contest and found some humor in the essay on becoming a library director by Ellen Liu, as “she wants my job!” she quipped.

“The IACF has supported this essay contest, as well as other similar ones around the Greater Houston area, as a community outreach effort to foster greater involvement with other organizations,” explained IACF President Bobby Singh as he came to the podium to present the award. Attending the ceremony with him were IACF Directors David Raj and Jawahar Malhotra. The IACF has supported this essay contest for a number of years and last year awarded $1,000 each to the first and second place winners.

The Blue Mug Performs in Austin HOUSTON: The people who brought you the highly successful play, The Blue Mug last Sunday, May 2 will hold a second show for the desi crowd in the Hill Country with a performance in Austin on Saturday, May 15.

The actress Konkona Sen who was sick and could not perform in Houston is expected to join the cast for the Austin show.

“We would like to thank the theatre loving audience, the Indian Doctors Charity Clinic, CRY Houston, Pratham, ICC, SCA and IACF for all their support for our maiden effort,” said Surinder Talwar who, along with Ash Malhotra and Sameer Talwar, have launched Media Circle & Arts The Texas promoter Promotions to bring entertainment shows to the region. of The Blue Mug, S u r i n d e r Ta l w a r.

His other partners are Ash Malhotra and Sameer Talwar in the Media Circle & Art Promotions company.

Ash Malhotra (left) with the director of The Blue Mug, Atul Kumar, after the performance in Houston.

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Indo-American Charity Foundation Walkathon: Walk Up Some Sweat, Meet a Few Hundred Friends continued from page 3

The Indo-American Charity Foundation held its annual Walkathon at the Lost Creek Park in Sugar Land this past Sunday. Clockwise from top right: Senior citizens with IACF Past President Rachel Varghese; volunteers serving bagels with IACF Director Behroze Daruwala; Dr. and Mrs. Parmeswaran at their Marrow Donor Registry booth; Ketki with Krisbi Travel gave out free Gatorade and other juices; Darshak and Mona Thacker at their sound system controls with emcee Hubert Vaz-Nayak; Ryan made balloon toys and did face paintings for the little ones; the lemonade stand by volunteer girls was a hit and made over $100. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra

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Malhotra Joins US Peace Corps for a Two-Year Posting in Togo

HOUSTON: After applying for a position nearly 18 months ago, Jeremy Gyan Giacchetti Malhotra has been accepted by the US Peace Corps to an assignment in Togo, a country in West Africa, located east of Ghana and west of Benin.

After joining up with 15 other volunteers, Malhotra will be flying off on June 3 from Washington, DC to take up his post in Lome, the capital and then be relocated to one of the USPC sites in the vicinity. He was one of 300 chosen from 4,000 candidates who apply every year. His appointment to Togo stems from his fluency in French, as it is the native language in the country which won its independence from France in 1960.

Malhotra expects to be assigned as a health

care and AIDS prevention agent, replacing the current volunteer.

Malhotra graduated from Westside High School and then attended the University of Houston, getting his Bachelor’s degree in Media and Communication 18 months ago. He has interned at the Houston Media Source and worked with several video production companies since then.

Malhotra has travelled extensively worldwide and has lived in Paris, France where he has grandparents and other relatives. Besides French, Malhotra has comprehension and speaking knowledge of Hindi. He is the son of Indo American News Business Manager Jawahar Malhotra and his mother is a professor at the University of Houston.

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Attorney George Willy Speaks at Legal Roundtable Conference HOUSTON: The new Arizona immigration law authorizing police to question residents about their U.S. immigration status is unconstitutional, local immigration attorney George R. Willy told a group of lawyers and business people on Thursday, May 6th.

Androvett of Androvett Legal Media & Marketing.

The 100+ attendees enjoyed a spirited discussion about a number of areas of immigration law. The roundtable began with an in depth analysis of the controversial new immigration law in Arizona. Mr. Willy expressed his opinions on the Arizona law, and asked everyone to urge the federal government to pass comprehensive immigration reform as soon as possible.

Thepanelists then moved on to also discuss immigration Attorney George Willy spoke at Texas Lawyer Maga- issues affecting big and zine’s Legal Roundtable Conference. small busiMr. Willy, founder and principal nesses. Specifically, Mr. Willy spoke attorney of George R. Willy, P.C., about the various visas available for was speaking as an invited panelist companies to bring skilled, educated at Texas Lawyer Magazine’s Le- and extraordinary ability individugal Roundtable. The topic for the als from abroad to work here in the roundtable was immigration law, United States. and Mr. Willy and two other experts George R. Willy, P.C. is a full serwere invited to speak at the event in vice immigration law firm that has the historic Magnolia Hotel in down- been serving Houston’s South Asians town Houston. for 25 years.

Mr. Willy was joined by Charles For more information about the Foster of Foster Quan, LLP and Jerry roundtable, the firm or the national Redmond of Conner Winters, LLP. immigration reform effort, please The event was moderated by Mike visit www.grwpc.com.

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Fewer Promotions, More Music It may be a case of the pot calling the kettle black, but lately, when I listen to any of Houston’s South Asian radio shows, it seems like a continuous promotional gig. It is not just one host or another, but all of them. They seemed to have learned from each other. If they’re not promoting an upcoming concert, they’re promoting themselves. It would be nice if we can get entertainment segment of at least 5-10 minutes followed by a distinct commercial break.

Pramod Kulkarni

Old Habits Refuse to Die If ever a nation did not deserve the leaders it has got, Nepal would probably be right up there in the rankings. After paralyzing the country for the umpteenth time since the peace process began four years ago, the United Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) has called off its strike citing hardships faced by the people. No one will buy this, given their past record and their earlier demand that Prime Minister Madhav Nepal resign and hand over power to them, which Mr Nepal refused to do.

One thing that was clear during this latest strike was the open hankering for power by the Maoists. At the end of the six-day strike, there is still no consensus on the new constitution, a sticking point among Nepal’s political formations. Nor is there any political resolution to the deadlock among the political parties and the Maoists, with the latter rejecting Mr Nepal’s invitation for talks. The Constituent Assembly that is to draft a new constitution is struggling and its term expires on May 28. With tourism in a shambles, thanks to the depredations of the Maoists, the people of Nepal are caught in a bind. Defying the Maoists could mean dire consequences for them, but the constant disruption of normal life means that many Nepalis who are daily-wage earners are faced with the prospect of penury.

The Maoists and the other parties have differences over the federal structure, the system of governance and, most contentious, the integration and rehabilitation of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) into the country’s army. The PLA’s main motivation has been to take on class enemies, a far cry from the ethos of the country’s professional army. The Maoists had a great chance at making a go of things when they were briefly in power but fell out with the coalition over a dispute on firing the army chief. Maoist leader Prachanda does not seem to understand that running a diverse country is very different from conducting guerrilla warfare.

The give and take of democracy seems an alien concept to him and his cohorts. The indefinite bandhs that the Maoists continue to organise are hurting the common man. By relentlessly fomenting trouble and destabilising the country, the Maoists are only giving a handle to external forces who have a vested interest in keeping things on the boil.

Hindustan Times

e d ito r i a l

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Not for Adults Only

By Hemchhaya De Films are changing and so are audiences. But India’s censors are still governed by a law that came into being almost six decades ago. A plan, however, is afoot to bring in a new, tech-savvy bill to replace the Cinematograph Act of 1952. If all goes well, the Cinematograph Bill, 2010, may be tabled in Parliament soon.

Sharmila Tagore, chairperson, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is said to have been instrumental in bringing about some of the major provisions in the draft.

The most significant aspect of the draft bill is the introduction of two new age demarcations with regard to film certification. At present, film certification is restricted to four categories — U certificate (can be viewed by all), U/A(under adult supervision), S (exhibition restricted to members of any profession or any class of person) and A (for adults only).

The two new categories will be +12 (suitable for viewing by children above 12) and +15 (suitable for viewing by children above 15) certificates.

The film industry is rather upbeat about these new provisions. “This is certainly a commendable initiative. I have always felt that the U/Acategory is a bit ambiguous,” says B.R. Sharan, creative head of Saregama Films, whose latest venture The Japanese Wife is currently running in theatres.

“If a film carries a U/A certificate, I won’t be sure if I can take my 15-yearold daughter to a theatre to watch the film. Besides, social norms are changing fast and our teenage audiences are far more mature than they were a few years ago.”

It was the CBFC which suggested the introduction of the new categories, says Tagore. “We understand that teenagers are more mature these days,” she says. Tagore points out that she would have given a film like Kaminey — which was about crime — a 15+ certificate instead of the A that it got. “This is because nowadays teens can tolerate a certain level of violence or sexual innuendos in films,” she says.

Filmmakers stress that the new

Filmmakers feel the new certification procedure would help newage directors and producers in Bollywood who like to handle mature topics. certifications were long overdue.

“Sometimes the Censor Board gives an A certificate to films on the flimsiest grounds. This deprives filmmakers of a larger audience,” says Raja Dasgupta, a director based in Calcutta. Agrees Abhishek Chaubey, director of the recent hit Ishqiya, a film awarded an A certificate. “I think Ishqiya would have merited a +15 certificate. And then the film would have attracted a wider audience,” he says.

Filmmakers feel the new certification procedure would help new-age directors and producers in Bollywood who like to handle mature topics. “Besides, it makes business sense — these (two new) certificates will help directors get a wider audience for their projects so producers will be more willing to back their experiments,” says Chaubey.

The new certificates, however, won’t make much of a difference to mainstream regional cinema. “Generally, directors and producers dealing in regional commercial cinema know that A films don’t sell much,” says Surinder Singh, president, Eastern India Motion Pictures Association and owner of Surinder Films, a Tollywood production house. “It’s not the certifications that worry us.

It’s film piracy that is killing our business.”

The bill does have provisions to tackle film piracy, an underground industry worth Rs 3,000-4,000 crore.

For example, Section 19 of the bill

IndoAmerican News Publisher Emeritus: Dr. K.L. Sindwani Editor: Pramod Kulkarni Business Manager: Jawahar Malhotra Marketing Manager: Krishna Giri Community Reporter: Kalyani Giri Community Editor: Manasi Gokhale Administrative Manager: Vanshika Vipin Marketing & Food Correspondent: Jacob David Production Manager: Hussain Mandviwala correspondents Chicago: Nand Kapoor Ottawa: Avinash Gavai ®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertising and articles is 5 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 7457 Harwin Drive, Suite 262, Houston, Texas 77036. Tel: 713-789-NEWS or 6397 Fax: 713-789-6399, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: indoamerican-news.com

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says that “no person who undertakes the processing of a film” shall “make a duplicate print or copy of the film in any form using any technology”. It adds that any person caught doing so would be punished with a fine of not less than Rs 5 lakh which may go up to Rs 25 lakh or be slapped with a prison term of one to three years.

“Such a hefty fine can definitely act as a deterrent,” says Shameek Sen, associate professor, National University for Juridical Sciences, Calcutta. “But a mere reference to ‘any technology’ in Section 19 won’t do,” says Sen, who specialises in media law. “In this age of bit-torrents and offshore portals concentrating on illegally copying Indian films, the bill needs to categorically stipulate provisions that would be harmonious with those of the Information Technology Act and close down any website that provides for downloads of such films,” he says.

But Sen believes that the bill will help small producers who are usually reluctant to sue film pirates for financial reasons or long-drawn legal proceedings.

Others feel that a few harsh measures in the draft bill are not enough to combat film piracy. “Some state laws such as the Goonda Act in Maharashtra make film piracy a nonbailable offence. Though the Indian film industry is waking up to the menace of piracy, enforcement of copyright infringement laws needs to be upgraded,” says Hiren Gada, director, Shemaroo EntertainmentThere is also concern that while the draft bill has taken a more mature approach to film certification, it’s doubtful whether the CBFC will undertake audience research to keep pace with changing tastes. “There are rules that call for such audience research by the board. But I am in constant touch with the information and broadcasting ministry regarding this issue,” says Tagore.

After all, a few years from now, a 12-year-old will be comfortable watching a film that is fit for a 15-yearold today. The act, clearly, would need to change with the times again.

Calcutta Telegraph

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Mother’s Day Celebrated at Sri Meenakshi Temple

Houstonians were truly doubly lucky to have the blessings of Mother Meenakshi twice - both on May 8 and May 9, 2010.

PEARLAND: Indian tradition venerates Mother as the first among living Gods. The Taittariya Upanishad in Krishna Yajur Veda declares “Mathru Devo Bhava” meaning Mother is God. Hindu tradition is also unique in its concept of Divine mother celebrated as Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswathi. When this tradition meets the American tradition of mother’ day, it is a wonderful confluence of cultures that disproves Rudyard Kipling who said “East is East and West is West and twain shall never meet”. It was in the spirit of confluence of East and West that Mothers day was celebrated at the Sri Meenakshi Temple in Pearland, Texas over the weekend starting with a traditional Homam on Saturday, May 8, 2010 and continuing the celebrations on the nationally recognized mother’s day on Sunday, May 9, 2010.

The festivities began in the Morning at 10 am with invocation of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and then ritual Punyahavachanam to purify the sacred space and make it fit for worship. The priests then made the assembled devotees to do samkalpam- a resolve to the worship. All the devotees eagerly participated and mentally submitted their petitions to Goddess Meenakshi. Then, the Goddess was invoked in the Kumbhas- the sacred water pot with appropriate hymns. The stage was set for Raja Mathangi

Homam. According to Sri Manicka Bhattar, the Srividya tradition places Madurai Meenakshi as Shyamala Peetam. The goddess is worshipped as Raja Mathangi- the Royal Graceful one which is the highest form of divine mother. An important aspect of this form is that the Goddess holds a parrot in her right hand and this parrot is symbolic of all the 64 disciplines like music and dance that are mentioned in the ancient Indian scriptures. Thus, the Raja Mathangi form symbolizes the divine mother who is all powerful with all the 64 disciplines at her command and service. This divine form was invoked in the sacrificial fire- homam and offerings were made by the priest to recitation of appropriate hymns. The fire ritual concluded with a grand offering- poornahuthi.

Then, it was time for Abhishekam of the idol of Meenakshi. A group of more than 100 ladies led by Mrs. Roopa Bala chanted the celebrated Lalitha Sahasranamam- a garland of one thousand names of divine mother. One of the celebrated names of the divine mother that appears is Suvasininarchina prithastayai Namaha- One who is fond of getting worshipped by married woman. It was a sight to behold- 100 plus ladies offering the prayers to divine mother. Then, the devotees chanted the Mahishasura Mardhini stotram, a composition of Adi Shankara. Then, the Goddess was bedecked with all

jewelry and flowers and ritual worship was offered. It was then time for Suvasini Pooja- worship of married woman. This is a very unique ritual that is part of the Srividya tradition that invokes the divine mother in married woman and offers worship to her. The priests and the members of the board performed worship to all of the ladies (more than 100 plus) in a very sincere way. Then, the idol was carried around the temple on shoulders of eager devotees. A mother never lets her children go hungry and that held true for Mother Meenakshi.

A wonderful lunch awaited her eager children.

One of the things that are priceless is the love of one’s mother.

The revered Indian philosopher Adi Shankara says” Kupothro Jayathe.

Kvachidapi Kumatha Na Bhavathi”.

It means there can be many a bad son, never was there a bad mother.

A mother is special and the occasion of mother’s day is our humble tribute to our mother and to all of the mothers worldwide. When that occasion becomes the platform to celebrate the divine mother, we are doubly blessed. Houstonians were truly doubly lucky to have the blessings of Mother Meenakshi twice - both on May 8 and May 9, 2010. For this, the members of the board led by Dr. Gopalakrishna, Pooja Co-coordinator Mrs. Roopa Bala, priests, staff, and the volunteers deserve our sincerest thanks and gratitude.

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canada

Khalistan Spectre Haunts Canada Again

By Avinash Gavai you know they want to supTORONTO: Terrorism express a freedom and voices of perts and analysts have indireason...” cated recent threats directed The government of Canada, at Indo-Canadian Liberal MP mindful of increasingly close Ujjal Dosanjh are to be exties with India, is keen to appected because Sikh militancy pease its new friend. is once again rearing it head in “The Government of CanCanada. ada takes Indian concerns “Canada is not facing the regarding extremist activities prospect of an increasingly very seriously. These issues media savvy and resurgent are regularly reviewed by movement that seeks to pick government officials,” said up where it left off in the 80s, Andrew MacDougall, Press while advancing their own Secretary to Prime Minister cause and doing extensive Stephen Harper. fundraising at the same time,” Despite such statement, said Wesley Wark, Canada has shown itself to be a senior professor at Univerlargely ineffectual in combatsity of Toronto’s Munk School ing this threat. The Internaof Global Affairs.. tional Sikh Youth Federation, Wark, a specialist in the a banned terrorist organization history of intelligence services in Canada still operates with and national security policy, Ujjal Dosannjh, the Canadian MP, has been the impunity some observers say. noted that while Khalistan target of Khalistani activists in Canada.

Sister organisations such as inspired militancy suffered a Babbar Khalsa International, major decline after the 1985 the Khalistan Commando Air India bombing that killed 329 the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Force, and the Khalistan Zindabad people -- Canada’s worst ever terrorist (RCMP). British Columbia Premier Force are still functioning with varyattack -- it has gained momentum in Gordon Campbell and Liberal Lead- ing degrees of effectiveness. recent years. er Michael Ignattieff boycotted the A well-established source requestA Facebook group called “Ujjal event, said to be the largest Vaisikhi ing anonymity told this writer that Dosanjh is a Sikh Traitor” said the celebration outside India.

“There is a fast emerging Khalistan former British Columbia premier “Mr. Dosanjh will always be in movement among youth (in univer(the equivalent of a US governor) is the cross hairs of these extremists sities) and this is growing fast and a “rat in our midst” and threatened to because he is a very prominent and scary,” adding that there is a “Pakistan “pierce him with bullets.” visual personality,” Wark said. component to it too, especially in The RCMP has been investigating The situation has far reaching con- Vancouver area.” the incident and the site has now been sequences, which transcend CanaThis growing organisation amongst taken down, though a cursory view- da’s borders. Last April, Indian Prime Sikh youth helped to tarnish the ing through Google Cache archives Minister Manmohan Singh met with March visit of the Minister of Road reveal the venom and vitriol that has his Canadian counterpart Stephen Transport and Highways, Kamal been directed against Dosanjh.

Harper, during the Nuclear Secu- Nath. He was indicted by the NanaThe Facebook group made it’s rity Summit held last month. In his vati Commission on allegations that appearance days after a controver- 30-minute meeting, Singh pressed he was involved in the 1984 anti-Sikh sial Sikh parade close to Vancouver upon Harper to step up the monitoring riots. Only one witness, Mukhtiar last month which included a float of the activities of Sikh separatists in Singh, testified to seeing Nath lead an displaying images of the assassins that country. armed mob that attacked a Gadara.. of Indira Gandhi and Jarnail Singh The Indian High Commission in However, there was no evidence Bhindranwale, the infamous leader Canada has now been closely liais- that he incited the crowd and he was of the Golden Temple assault. Dos- ing with the Canadian government, subsequently cleared of the charges. anjh, who back in 1985 was beaten including the national police agency However, massive protests greeted to within an inch of his life by Sikh the RCMP, and the Canadian Secu- him outside his hotel in Toronto. extremists, was highly critical of the rity Intelligence Service (CSIS), in Dosanjh, is his characteristically parade and its separatist overtones. an effort to check and control the outspoken way has since criticized The level of tension and contro- rise of potential security and terrorist a veritable sacred cow -- Canada’s versy around the parade was intensi- threats. much vaunted and cherished mulfied when Dosanjh, and provincial The Indian High Commissioner to ticultural policies -- declaring that MLA Dave Hayer (whose father was Canada, S.M. Gavai last week gave ethnic based violence and a belligera newspaper publisher who was shot a radio interview to the Canadian ent mentality stem from the concesdead in his garage in Surrey after he Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), sions made in the name of political refused to be silenced in his criticisms where he expressed his concern at the correctness. of hard-line Sikhs in Canada) were escalation of separatist activities.

“This idea of multiculturalism has informed by an organizer that they ``The rise of Sikh extremism any- been completely distorted, turned “were not welcome, and would be where is a legitimate concern for us. on its head to essentially claim that responsible for their own security.”

And I think it should be a cause of anything anyone believes—no matThe veiled threat sparked out- worry to Canadians as well.” He went ter how ridiculous and outrageous rage and Dosanjh and Hayer—both on to say, “I mean this clearly shows it might be—is okay and acceptable Sikhs—along with Surrey Mayor the mindset of these people. They in the name of diversity,” he told the Dianne Watts lodged complaints with are violent, they are extremists and Globe and Mail.

Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

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Yogic Healing Garners US NIH $4.5 Million Grant for Indian University

By Yatindra Bhatnagar HOUSTON: India’s ancient yogic healing methods and natural therapy has got a tremendous fillip in Houston with a $4.5 million grant from the National Institute of Health to promote research in treating cancer to the Bangalorebased Yoga University. This announcement was made by Dr. H.R. Nagendra, Vice Chancellor of Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anu-

sandhana Samsthana at a touching farewell function for one of the prominent yoga teacher-couple, Rama Rao and Meera Rao, here, on Friday, April 16.

Rama Rao is going back to India to take up the important position of International Coordinator with a worldwide assignment to popularize Yogic therapy and naturopathy under the S-VYASA plan.

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The function held at Keshav Smruti in Houston was also attended by scores of yogic teachers that the Rao couple helped to get certification, community activists and supporters.

Rama Rao and Meera, both are very prominent and active in promoting Yoga, yogic therapy and naturopathy and have bagged several awards and honors from hospitals and community organizations. They are both graduate-instructors from S-VYASA and their close friendship started while at the University. Both are dedicated to their field and have helped numerous people who were suffering from various ailments.

Dr. Nagendra said S-VYASA

search is the approach for social transformation in the areas of Yoga for modern society, medical applications of Yoga, using Yoga for stress management too. There are educational applications also.

S-VYASA is conducting research to examine the efficacy of Yoga, to unravel the hidden mysteries of Yoga, to apply the principles and techniques of Yoga to various aspects of modern life.

Yogic therapy has demonstrated its efficacy in treating several ailments like Hypertension, Diabetes and Arthritis also, among many others.

Ramesh Bhutda, a prominent community activist and philanthropist said the S-VYASA and the Rao couple are dedicated

always be ready to receive them back. Rama Rao complimented his wife Meera for being with him in the challenging task of devoting a life for teaching Yoga and yogic therapy. He acknowledged tremendous help from Ramesh Bhutda and Guru Nagendra for encouraging and helping him to render service to humanity which, he termed as, service to God. Rao said yoga therapy has also helped treating Hypertension, Bipolar Disorder, loss of eyesight, and several other ailments.

He said he and his wife are overwhelmed by the affection and appreciation showed. He said he would be traveling to various countries on the coordination mission and so will not be based

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Yogic teachers, community activists and supporters at the function held at Keshav Smruti on April 16.

has collaboration with MD Anderson Cancer Center and UCSF ( San Francisco ) in the research project.

He narrated how three decades back Meera Rao worked alone in India ’s remote north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh where distance was not measured in miles but days and had to walk for 25 days to reach the Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya to teach the tribal children. Now things have changed considerably and S-VYASA has a sprawling 100acre campus just outside Bangalore (Bangaluru) with 500 plus students, 50 of them doing their Ph.D. There are more than 45 faculty members at this deemedto-be University declared by the government of India .

He said S-VYASA is committed to Research for the propagation of Yoga. Systematic, scientific re-

for a higher cause. Rama Rao and Meera have set an example of passionately working for the cause of health and yogic therapy.

Rama Rao retired from his job as an engineer-architect and has totally devoted himself to this noble cause. He narrated his own experience of beneficial efficacy of yogic healing.

Jugal Malani, another prominent activist and philanthropist said that Yoga has helped him physically, mentally, emotionally; now with his wife, Raj, he truly believes in and promotes Yoga.

Malani paid a tribute to Rama Rao and said India has a Baba Ramdev, we Houstonians have Baba Rama Rao who is a simple, unassuming person always out to help others.

Dr. Sudha Rajan and other speakers all said the Raos would be missed and that Houston would

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, mAY 14 , 2010 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

in one country but would return to Houston in September for some time.

At the outset Pratima Desai, the MC of the evening, introducedDr. Nagendra, and the Rao-couple with light-hearted humor in her intimate, personal style. She said this is a great couple, both great teachers and great companions whose life is their message. She told the audience that Rama Rao had become a student at S-VYASA where Meera was a teacher and it was there that Rama Rao used to just keep looking at Meera whom he ultimately married. This had the audience roaring with laughter.

Over 175 yoga practitioners were also present on the occasion.

The function started and ended with Om dwani and Sanskrit prayers and rounded off with a sumptuous dinner for all.

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New York Life Has Record Year for 3,618 New Hires in 2009

Area offices seek to continue recruiting trend and hire 75 NEW YORK: New York Life Insurance Company significantly increased its field force and recruited a record number of financial representatives in 2009, with 3,618 appointments in the United States. New York Life’s Sugar Land sales office and Houston General Offices are interested in continuing this trend by increasing its workforce with 75 appointments in 2010.

“Job seekers continue to recognize that working at New York Life, recently named “World’s Most Admired Company” by Fortune magazine, in the Life and Health Insurance category, is a wise career choice,” said Ramesh Cherivirala, partner of the Houston General Office. “Working as a financial professional for New York Life offers men and women the opportunity to provide vital insurance protection and financial guidance to the people in their communities, while also enjoying flexibility, independence and unlimited income potential.”

Since 2005 New York Life has increased its agent force by 15%, at a time when the number of agents industry-wide is declining. Women represented 28% of all agents hired,

while more than 52% of agents recruited in 2009 were either women or minorities or both. In addition, 38% of new agents represent New York Life’s Cultural Markets, which include agents working in the African American, Asian Indian, Chinese, Hispanic, Korean, and Vietnamese markets. New York Life also experienced records in life insurance sales in 2009. Sales

by New York Life’s 11,800 licensed agents increased 16%, a new record in 2009, and a stark contrast to the decline industry-wide*.

New York Life has been serving Houston, TX since the early 1900’s.

The Houston and Sugar Land offices serves as a base for approximately 200 New York Life agents and support personnel serving the Houston community.

New York Life scored highest in the Life and Health industry category in Fortune magazine’s annual survey of the “World’s Most Admired Companies.” For the fourth year in a row, BusinessWeek named New York Life one of “The Best Places to Launch a Career.”

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Indo American News • Friday, May 14 , 2010

Arya Samaj Honors Teachers

By Karuna Kankani HOUSTON: On Saturday, May 1, 2010, the Houston area’s 4th annual Guru Vandana was held. Fifty teachers were honored at Arya Samaj from 5 to 7 PM followed by dinner. The event was organized by volunteers of the HEF (Hindu Education Foundation).

When the teachers started arriving at 5 PM, they went around to “stations” where different posters were being presented on various Hindu

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ful how I approach each day,” said Mrs. Ratcliffe, a 10th grade English teacher at Seven Lakes with thirty-six years of experience. Then the teachers were individually called up and given a token of appreciation by their students. The student then bowed down in respect as per the Hindu scriptures.

Two forms of Indian classical dancing, Kathak and Bharatanatyam, were performed by kids and teens.

The skit replayed a scene from the Hindu scripture, Mahabharata, of

Teachers from different schools at 4th annual Guru Vandana event held at Arya Samaj

aspects like why we say namaste while we greet people, why we ring a bell in a mandir (temple) and much more.

The show kicked off with the MC, Prahalad Appaji, elaborating on the power point presentation about different aspects of the Hindu culture. I really learned a lot about the history of the Indian culture, and I was most appreciative about all the things that were brought out about how we all are one. I really enjoyed that,” commented Mrs. Harasim, a vocal and piano teacher for pre-k through7th grade at TH Rodgers.The slide show also displayed how important the Guru is in the Hindu culture. For some teachers, it was a gentle reminder.”You have to remember the responsibility.

It made me think ‘ooohh’. I really do have a calling, so I need to be care-

when Arjun, one of the Pandavas, was only focused on his object of target.

Sonal Bhuchar, a member of the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees was the guest of honor and shared a few words with the teachers. “I just want to congratulate all of the students as well as you parents, and the Hindu Education Foundation (HEF) for coming together to take such a big step in reaching out to the reaching profession and honoring them for all the work that they do,” said Bhuchar.

Rishi Bhutada spoke about the Hindu American Foundation and its efforts to ensure fair representation of Hinduism in Texas school textbooks and to provide vegetarian options for school meals. The audience responded positively and the program ended on a bright note.

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